On saying thank you
I live in a part of the world where our society takes time during the fall season to stop and think about all of the benefits and blessings in life for which we are thankful. When I reflect on the attitude of thankfulness, I’m reminded of an event during Jesus’ ministry recorded in Luke 17:11-19.
Jesus encountered 10 lepers as he traveled to Jerusalem. They asked Jesus to heal them, and He did. The 10 men had something in common — their physical affliction. But, they also had a profound difference — one of them was a Samaritan. Most Jews of Jesus’ day despised Samaritans; they looked down on them as inferior individuals.
Following their healing, only one of the men returned to say thank you to Jesus — the Samaritan. This social outcast offers us an important reminder in our day: He highlights the importance of offering thanks to God and others.
I'm afraid many people in our generation have forgotten just how important words of thanks are. Maybe it is because of what we have been influenced by in our respective cultures. Sociologists refer to the problem as the psychology of affluence. We don't have to be rich or well-to-do to be impacted. We simply require exposure to it to become infected.
The psychology of affluence tells us that nice things should come our way or people should be good to us because we deserve it. It is a birthright and a privilege rather than an aspiration or a goal. The psychology of affluence also tells us we have a responsibility to look out for our own interests and happiness rather than think about others.
With this cultural influence, we tend to forget the "magic words" — thank you. We simply take what comes our way and go on. When people do nice things for us, we figure they owe it to us. They are just treating us the way we deserve to be treated. Lucky for them they saw how deserving we are and responded accordingly!
My hope is that we as a Christian community can be better than our cultures; that we can recapture the wonder of the thankful Samaritan.
Why is giving thanks so important?
- It requires humbling ourselves.
- It requires taking time out of our schedules to stop and make a call, pay a visit, or write a note. In other words, it costs us something.
- It implies that someone has done something to help us, and we want to acknowledge it.
- If forces us to stop thinking about our agenda and put ourselves in another person's shoes as we see how they have honored us.
- It puts life in perspective, reminding us that as much as you'd like to think so, we are not self-sufficient; we really do need other people.
- It causes us to evaluate our performance and ask how we can pass thankfulness on to another person, like a chain reaction.
- I trust we will take time today — wherever we are in the world — to offer a word of thanks to God for all of life's blessings we enjoy so bountifully. I trust we will always remember to thank friends and family members for what they mean to us. May God help us learn this important lesson from the thankful Samaritan.
General Editor, Church of the Nazarene
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The Global Church of the Nazarene News in Lenexa, Kansas, United States: Former global NMI president remembered from Nazarene Communication Network News "This week in the Church of the Nazarene..." for Friday, 18 November 2016 Volume 1646
Santa Rosa, California
Former NMI president Beverlee Borbe remembered
Beverlee "Bev" Borbe, 87, passed away November 12 in Santa Rosa, California. She was a retired educator and a longtime leader for Nazarene Missions International. She and her husband, Richard, celebrated 67 years of marriage in August.
Bev attended Pasadena College (now Point Loma Nazarene University) and was a graduate of the University of California at Sacramento and the University of California at Davis. She was a teacher for 20 years for the Auburn Union School District in California, as well as a coordinator and consultant for special projects.
Love for education spread to Bev's service in NMI. She was involved in mission education on several levels, editing adult mission education curriculum for several years and writing children’s mission education. She served as the Sacramento district NMI president for 16 years and as global NMI president for four years. She also represented the Southwest USA educational zone on the Global NMI Council and helped produce a number of NMI publications, such as the Faith Promise Planner. She also authored 199 Mission Program Ideas—for All Reasons and Seasons, a book still available today.
“My first encounter with Bev Borbe was when I was a local NMI president on the Eastern Kentucky District," said Lola Brickey, global NMI director. "I was blessed to have been mentored by Bev. She brought her unique gifts and abilities to NMI, and the Kingdom has benefited in so many ways.”
Bev is survived by her husband, Richard, two children, Diane Wagner and Dick Borbe, and three grandchildren.
A private memorial service will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wesleyan-Holiness Digital Library by visiting nazarenefoundation.org, clicking on “Donate Now,” and selecting “Beverlee Borbe Memorial” in the “Designation” list. Checks can also be mailed to:
Beverlee Borbe Memorial
c/o The Church of the Nazarene Foundation
17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Suite 200
Lenexa, Kansas 66220, United States
Cards and remembrances may be sent to:
Richard Borbe
300 Fountaingrove Parkway, Room 214
Santa Rosa, California 95403
“NMI loved and appreciated Bev," said Nina G. Gunter, general superintendent emerita and former global NMI director. "She was one of the best workshop presenters and NMI leaders. She helped shape NMI leaders for the mission. I cherish the times working with Bev as a creative educator, a passionate NMI leader, and a dear friend.”[Nazarene Missions International]Read more
Olathe, Kansas
MNU president elected to second 5-year term
MidAmerica Nazarene University’s Board of Trustees unanimously passed a renewal vote for a five-year term of its fifth president, David J. Spittal, during its annual meeting November 15 and 16.
“The unanimous vote of the MNU Board of Trustees is a clear expression of confidence in the leadership of President Spittal," said Michael Palmer, Board of Trustees vice-chair. "The board is energized by the university’s progress and by several growth initiatives, including the $61 million Bright Futures campaign that was launched during our 50th Anniversary celebration."
Spittal assumed the presidency of MNU in February 2012 after being president for 17 years at Southern Wesleyan University in Central, South Carolina. During his five years at MNU, the university has achieved renewal of accreditation, celebrated its 50th anniversary, and embarked on the largest capital campaign in its history.
"I have been honored to serve and grateful to the Board of Trustees for the opportunity to continue to work with our faculty, staff, and students who inspire me every day," Spittal said.[MidAmerica Nazarene University]Read more
Solomon Islands, Asia-Pacific Region
Solomon Islander appointed DS during assembly on Guadalcanal
Nazarene history was made on the historic island of Guadalcanal, infamous for its place in the World War II Pacific Rim theater. For the first time in 20 years, a Solomon Islander became district superintendent of the Solomon Islands.
But except by the grace of God, Dickson Manongi nearly missed the moment as medical personnel at the nearby hospital struggled to insert an IV into his severely dehydrated arm as a result of suffering from possible malaria. During the morning session, the assembly — not expecting that he would be released from the hospital — prayed fervently for his health.
As the people began to gather for the evening service, Dickson and his wife, Doris, arrived — to the joy of the crowd — still bearing the IV shunt in his wrist, with the promise to return to the hospital as soon as the service was over. Dickson, along with five others, was ordained in a ceremony by Church of the Nazarene General Superintendent David Graves.
A spontaneous celebration began as Graves then announced the appointment of Dickson Manongi as the new district superintendent of the Solomon Islands. It is no surprise that not even severe illness could keep Manongi away from the assembly.
Over the last couple of decades, he has worked tirelessly beside others to establish the work of the Church of the Nazarene and to develop and encourage its leaders in the Solomon Islands, while also working full time as secretary to the Minister of Health and Medicine. During this last year he visited each circuit pastor to help develop leadership skills and to hear each pastor’s heart.
His vision for the district is clear — aggressively expanding healthy Nazarene churches in the Solomon Islands and beyond. He firmly believes that their mission as a district must extend beyond their own country. As an example, the Solomon Island District, though not financially strong, in March raised a significant sum of money for disaster relief in the country of Fiji, which was devastated by Cyclone Wilson.[Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region]Read more
Papua New Guinea, Asia-Pacific Region
PNG creates Jiwaka North District
Papua New Guinea is a country of wild beauty and warm people, a place steeped in tradition and superstition.
Tribalism and family lines invariably inform life decisions. In the midst of all of this, the Western Highland’s District Assembly again proved that the business of God’s kingdom is more important than any lines we draw or personal kingdoms we may develop.
The spirit of the crowd which gathered for the three days both inside and outside the double tents erected on the open ground in the shadow of Kudjip Hospital was celebratory. The district assembly opened Friday night with a passionate call to emotional and spiritual healing. Prayers and tears flowed freely. On Saturday, the assembly voted to change their historic name as the first district in Papua New Guinea from Western Highlands to Jiwaka South District to better represent who they are in respect to the newly established national province. Moments later, enthusiastic applause and praises broke out when delegates voted unanimously to create the new Jiwaka North District by ceding four of their circuits (zones) to this new district. This was not the idea of the moment but the culmination of years of planning and dreaming to birth a new district, as they have successfully accomplished several times before.
Later that evening, 30 men and women were ordained. On Sunday morning, over 6,000 men, women, and children gathered together under the tents and sitting in the backs of trucks and under trees and umbrellas in the hot tropical sun to celebrate the birth of the new district. David Graves, general superintendent in jurisdiction, preached a powerful sermon of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives, giving us power, purity, and a witness to proclaim the name of Jesus.
Afterwards, representatives of both districts, clergy, and lay leaders humbly spoke of the process that brought them to the formation of the new daughter district and the future of both. Representatives of the mother district, Jiwaka South, spoke in terms of having protected and nurtured this new district but the time had come to trust them to lead their people in making and growing Christlike disciples. Following the speeches, four lit candles were presented by District Superintendent Andrew Akus to the pioneer leaders of the new district, who in turn passed them to the four circuit pastors of the newly formed district. In addition, a Bible was given symbolizing the centrality and purity of God’s Holy Word, reminding them to guard against heresy.
Looking around I saw looks of pride, joy, and hope on faces belonging to both the mother and daughter districts. Tears streamed down smiling faces. People from both districts came forward to hug each other, laughing and crying at the same time. I was moved to tears as I saw the Kingdom of Heaven played out in this little corner of the remote highlands of Papua New Guinea.[Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region]Read more
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Eurasia
Flags of the Nations: France
The tricolore consists of three vertical bands of equal width, displaying the country's national colors: blue, white, and red. Red, white, and blue have come to represent liberty, equality and fraternity — the ideals of the French Revolution.
Since September 1, 2009, the Church of the Nazarene's Global Ministry Center (GMC) proudly flies a flag each week of one of the many nations in which the denomination is present in ministry. Leaders were invited to send a national flag to be flown at the GMC alongside the flag of the United States*. The national flags rotate weekly, and photos of them raised are sent to the church leaders of that country.
This week: France
The Church of the Nazarene officially entered France in 1977.
France had a population of 62,814,233 in 2015. That same year, France reported nine Churches of the Nazarene, eight of which had been officially organized. France has 334 total members.
Located on the Eurasia Region, France is a Phase 1 district. For more information about the Eurasia Region, visit eurasiaregion.org.
* = The weekly highlighted flag is raised on the middle of three poles in compliance with U.S. government protocols. It flies to the left of the GMC host-nation United States flag, which flies above the host-state flag of Kansas. The Christian flag flies on the third pole.
The Global Ministry Center is the mission and service hub of the Church of the Nazarene.Read more
USA/Canada
Ossian, Indiana
When God has a different plan
When Steve Jones sensed God calling him into full-time ministry from his career as a machinist, he assumed that it would be as pastor of a church. But God had something else in mind.
Before he turned his life over to God at age 30, Jones had sought pleasure in rock music, barhopping, and heavy drinking. All that changed when Jesus came into his heart and gave him a greater purpose for living.
Years later, when he felt God calling him into ministry, he had doubts about himself. He was a machinist; what did he know about professional ministry? He taught a Sunday school class of senior adults and ministered in nursing homes, but felt God leading him to do more. He told his pastor about his call and in 2003, the church granted him a local preacher’s license.When God has a different plan by Richard Gammill
Material created and owned by NCN News may be used for church newsletters and bulletins.
-------
The Global Church of the Nazarene News in Lenexa, Kansas, United States: Former global NMI president remembered from Nazarene Communication Network News "This week in the Church of the Nazarene..." for Friday, 18 November 2016 Volume 1646
Santa Rosa, California
Former NMI president Beverlee Borbe remembered
Beverlee "Bev" Borbe, 87, passed away November 12 in Santa Rosa, California. She was a retired educator and a longtime leader for Nazarene Missions International. She and her husband, Richard, celebrated 67 years of marriage in August.
Bev attended Pasadena College (now Point Loma Nazarene University) and was a graduate of the University of California at Sacramento and the University of California at Davis. She was a teacher for 20 years for the Auburn Union School District in California, as well as a coordinator and consultant for special projects.
Love for education spread to Bev's service in NMI. She was involved in mission education on several levels, editing adult mission education curriculum for several years and writing children’s mission education. She served as the Sacramento district NMI president for 16 years and as global NMI president for four years. She also represented the Southwest USA educational zone on the Global NMI Council and helped produce a number of NMI publications, such as the Faith Promise Planner. She also authored 199 Mission Program Ideas—for All Reasons and Seasons, a book still available today.
“My first encounter with Bev Borbe was when I was a local NMI president on the Eastern Kentucky District," said Lola Brickey, global NMI director. "I was blessed to have been mentored by Bev. She brought her unique gifts and abilities to NMI, and the Kingdom has benefited in so many ways.”
Bev is survived by her husband, Richard, two children, Diane Wagner and Dick Borbe, and three grandchildren.
A private memorial service will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wesleyan-Holiness Digital Library by visiting nazarenefoundation.org, clicking on “Donate Now,” and selecting “Beverlee Borbe Memorial” in the “Designation” list. Checks can also be mailed to:
Beverlee Borbe Memorial
c/o The Church of the Nazarene Foundation
17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Suite 200
Lenexa, Kansas 66220, United States
Cards and remembrances may be sent to:
Richard Borbe
300 Fountaingrove Parkway, Room 214
Santa Rosa, California 95403
“NMI loved and appreciated Bev," said Nina G. Gunter, general superintendent emerita and former global NMI director. "She was one of the best workshop presenters and NMI leaders. She helped shape NMI leaders for the mission. I cherish the times working with Bev as a creative educator, a passionate NMI leader, and a dear friend.”[Nazarene Missions International]Read more
Olathe, Kansas
MNU president elected to second 5-year term
MidAmerica Nazarene University’s Board of Trustees unanimously passed a renewal vote for a five-year term of its fifth president, David J. Spittal, during its annual meeting November 15 and 16.
“The unanimous vote of the MNU Board of Trustees is a clear expression of confidence in the leadership of President Spittal," said Michael Palmer, Board of Trustees vice-chair. "The board is energized by the university’s progress and by several growth initiatives, including the $61 million Bright Futures campaign that was launched during our 50th Anniversary celebration."
Spittal assumed the presidency of MNU in February 2012 after being president for 17 years at Southern Wesleyan University in Central, South Carolina. During his five years at MNU, the university has achieved renewal of accreditation, celebrated its 50th anniversary, and embarked on the largest capital campaign in its history.
"I have been honored to serve and grateful to the Board of Trustees for the opportunity to continue to work with our faculty, staff, and students who inspire me every day," Spittal said.[MidAmerica Nazarene University]Read more
Solomon Islands, Asia-Pacific Region
Solomon Islander appointed DS during assembly on Guadalcanal
Nazarene history was made on the historic island of Guadalcanal, infamous for its place in the World War II Pacific Rim theater. For the first time in 20 years, a Solomon Islander became district superintendent of the Solomon Islands.
But except by the grace of God, Dickson Manongi nearly missed the moment as medical personnel at the nearby hospital struggled to insert an IV into his severely dehydrated arm as a result of suffering from possible malaria. During the morning session, the assembly — not expecting that he would be released from the hospital — prayed fervently for his health.
As the people began to gather for the evening service, Dickson and his wife, Doris, arrived — to the joy of the crowd — still bearing the IV shunt in his wrist, with the promise to return to the hospital as soon as the service was over. Dickson, along with five others, was ordained in a ceremony by Church of the Nazarene General Superintendent David Graves.
A spontaneous celebration began as Graves then announced the appointment of Dickson Manongi as the new district superintendent of the Solomon Islands. It is no surprise that not even severe illness could keep Manongi away from the assembly.
Over the last couple of decades, he has worked tirelessly beside others to establish the work of the Church of the Nazarene and to develop and encourage its leaders in the Solomon Islands, while also working full time as secretary to the Minister of Health and Medicine. During this last year he visited each circuit pastor to help develop leadership skills and to hear each pastor’s heart.
His vision for the district is clear — aggressively expanding healthy Nazarene churches in the Solomon Islands and beyond. He firmly believes that their mission as a district must extend beyond their own country. As an example, the Solomon Island District, though not financially strong, in March raised a significant sum of money for disaster relief in the country of Fiji, which was devastated by Cyclone Wilson.[Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region]Read more
Papua New Guinea, Asia-Pacific Region
PNG creates Jiwaka North District
Papua New Guinea is a country of wild beauty and warm people, a place steeped in tradition and superstition.
Tribalism and family lines invariably inform life decisions. In the midst of all of this, the Western Highland’s District Assembly again proved that the business of God’s kingdom is more important than any lines we draw or personal kingdoms we may develop.
The spirit of the crowd which gathered for the three days both inside and outside the double tents erected on the open ground in the shadow of Kudjip Hospital was celebratory. The district assembly opened Friday night with a passionate call to emotional and spiritual healing. Prayers and tears flowed freely. On Saturday, the assembly voted to change their historic name as the first district in Papua New Guinea from Western Highlands to Jiwaka South District to better represent who they are in respect to the newly established national province. Moments later, enthusiastic applause and praises broke out when delegates voted unanimously to create the new Jiwaka North District by ceding four of their circuits (zones) to this new district. This was not the idea of the moment but the culmination of years of planning and dreaming to birth a new district, as they have successfully accomplished several times before.
Later that evening, 30 men and women were ordained. On Sunday morning, over 6,000 men, women, and children gathered together under the tents and sitting in the backs of trucks and under trees and umbrellas in the hot tropical sun to celebrate the birth of the new district. David Graves, general superintendent in jurisdiction, preached a powerful sermon of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives, giving us power, purity, and a witness to proclaim the name of Jesus.
Afterwards, representatives of both districts, clergy, and lay leaders humbly spoke of the process that brought them to the formation of the new daughter district and the future of both. Representatives of the mother district, Jiwaka South, spoke in terms of having protected and nurtured this new district but the time had come to trust them to lead their people in making and growing Christlike disciples. Following the speeches, four lit candles were presented by District Superintendent Andrew Akus to the pioneer leaders of the new district, who in turn passed them to the four circuit pastors of the newly formed district. In addition, a Bible was given symbolizing the centrality and purity of God’s Holy Word, reminding them to guard against heresy.
Looking around I saw looks of pride, joy, and hope on faces belonging to both the mother and daughter districts. Tears streamed down smiling faces. People from both districts came forward to hug each other, laughing and crying at the same time. I was moved to tears as I saw the Kingdom of Heaven played out in this little corner of the remote highlands of Papua New Guinea.[Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region]Read more
SubscribeFacebookTwitter
InstagramContact
Eurasia
Flags of the Nations: France
The tricolore consists of three vertical bands of equal width, displaying the country's national colors: blue, white, and red. Red, white, and blue have come to represent liberty, equality and fraternity — the ideals of the French Revolution.
Since September 1, 2009, the Church of the Nazarene's Global Ministry Center (GMC) proudly flies a flag each week of one of the many nations in which the denomination is present in ministry. Leaders were invited to send a national flag to be flown at the GMC alongside the flag of the United States*. The national flags rotate weekly, and photos of them raised are sent to the church leaders of that country.
This week: France
The Church of the Nazarene officially entered France in 1977.
France had a population of 62,814,233 in 2015. That same year, France reported nine Churches of the Nazarene, eight of which had been officially organized. France has 334 total members.
Located on the Eurasia Region, France is a Phase 1 district. For more information about the Eurasia Region, visit eurasiaregion.org.
* = The weekly highlighted flag is raised on the middle of three poles in compliance with U.S. government protocols. It flies to the left of the GMC host-nation United States flag, which flies above the host-state flag of Kansas. The Christian flag flies on the third pole.
The Global Ministry Center is the mission and service hub of the Church of the Nazarene.Read more
USA/Canada
Ossian, Indiana
When God has a different plan
When Steve Jones sensed God calling him into full-time ministry from his career as a machinist, he assumed that it would be as pastor of a church. But God had something else in mind.
Before he turned his life over to God at age 30, Jones had sought pleasure in rock music, barhopping, and heavy drinking. All that changed when Jesus came into his heart and gave him a greater purpose for living.
Years later, when he felt God calling him into ministry, he had doubts about himself. He was a machinist; what did he know about professional ministry? He taught a Sunday school class of senior adults and ministered in nursing homes, but felt God leading him to do more. He told his pastor about his call and in 2003, the church granted him a local preacher’s license.When God has a different plan by Richard Gammill
OSSIAN, INDIANA -- When Steve Jones sensed God calling him into full-time ministry from his career as a machinist, he assumed that it would be as pastor of a church. But God had something else in mind.
Before he turned his life over to God at age 30, Jones had sought pleasure in rock music, barhopping and heavy drinking. All that changed when Jesus came into his heart and gave him a greater purpose for living.
Years later, when he felt God calling him into ministry, he had doubts about himself. He was a machinist; what did he know about professional ministry? He taught a Sunday school class of senior adults and ministered in nursing homes, but felt God leading him to do more. He told his pastor about his call and in 2003, the church granted him a local preacher’s license.
Jones enrolled in the Northeast Indiana District School of Ministry and began his studies. Over the next eight years, he completed 24 courses while working full time. When his wife suffered a stroke, he took several months off to care for her, and then resumed his studies. The goal was always before him: to qualify for pastoral ministry.
He completed his studies in the fall of 2011 and was ordained the following year. Now, at age 58, he sent his résumé out to the Nazarene districts in Ohio and Indiana. He waited in vain for a response.
Several months passed by. Jones tried hard not to question his call and keep himself from being discouraged. Then began a series of major setbacks.
At work in January 2013, a steel pipe hit him in the head. An initial medical examination revealed nothing, but a week later, he was overcome with dizziness and vomiting. Further examination indicated a concussion and diabetes. He began insulin treatments, changed his diet, and was off work for eight weeks. He shed 46 pounds of weight. His doctor soon declared that he no longer needed either blood pressure medicine or insulin. Feeling healthy once again, he sent out another round of résumés. Still no response.
At a Prime Time retreat early in 2014, he asked the general superintendent, “How can I get a church to pastor?”
The superintendent responded, “Unfortunately, being trained and ordained does not guarantee that you will receive a call to a church.”
A month later, he suffered a stroke and the doctor found a blood clot on his brain, apparently the result of the head injury. Another eight weeks of rehab.
After Jones got back on his feet, he stopped by the middle school to watch the girls’ softball team practicing. He introduced himself to Coach Herb Bergman. After some conversation, the coach said, “How would you like to come and pray with my team before their game?”
At that moment, Jones found his ministry. Or . . . his ministry found him.
Jones began meeting with the team, not only for prayer but also for times of devotions.
Encouraged by the team’s response, Jones offered his services to other school teams. Cautious about any potential controversy in having a Christian minister involved in a publicly tax-funded school, they initially declined. Then in November, both a boys’ and a girls’ basketball team invited Jones to begin meeting with them. Now he was ministering to some 50 athletes.
In October 2015, he attended an awards banquet for a girls’ basketball team and the coach asked, “Can you come and lead my team in devotions?” During a game, a woman came up to him with a request: “Would you meet for prayer with my cheerleading squad?”
In May 2016, a new football coach invited Jones to pray with his team in the upcoming season. In August, Jones attended a fundraiser and was asked to begin meeting with the volleyball team.
As his sports ministry grows, Jones says, “Can you believe this? I am in ministry but I don’t have to worry about church budgets, meeting with church boards, maintaining a building, or any of that. I can focus on being a friend to these young people and investing in their lives before they graduate from high school.”
Jones bought his first cell phone to make himself always available to any troubled student who needed someone to talk with. By then he was ministering to a volleyball team, football team, boys’ and girls’ basketball teams, a cheerleading squad and the softball team.
His pastor at Ossian Church of the Nazarene, Bob Miller, said, “Nothing gets in the way of Steve’s ministering to these kids. He is passionate about this young generation and reaching them while he has the opportunity. Many of these kids don’t attend church. Steve is an avid student of the Word, and he brings it to these young athletes. He wants to make his mark on them now.”
Coach Herb Bergman said, “I expected him to just pray with my softball team, but he goes beyond that with devotions and friendship. He really cares about all these students. For certain reasons, I can’t call him a chaplain, but that is the role he fills.”
"He is a great model for ministry outside the box. He is genuine in his love for the kids and we are all very proud of him," said Dr. David Roland, Northeast Indiana District superintendent.
In January of this year, the engine in his car blew, forcing him to buy a new one. Then in October, his company downsized and eliminated his job. Now he is looking for new employment that will not interfere with his sports ministry. The Nazarene pastor in Pleasantville passed away and Jones is making the 50 mile round trip each Sunday to serve as interim pastor.
Steven Jones prepared himself to answer the call to ministry. When the opportunities came, they were not what he expected, but they are what God ordained. He finds joy and fulfillment doing what God set before him.
Before he turned his life over to God at age 30, Jones had sought pleasure in rock music, barhopping and heavy drinking. All that changed when Jesus came into his heart and gave him a greater purpose for living.
Years later, when he felt God calling him into ministry, he had doubts about himself. He was a machinist; what did he know about professional ministry? He taught a Sunday school class of senior adults and ministered in nursing homes, but felt God leading him to do more. He told his pastor about his call and in 2003, the church granted him a local preacher’s license.
Jones enrolled in the Northeast Indiana District School of Ministry and began his studies. Over the next eight years, he completed 24 courses while working full time. When his wife suffered a stroke, he took several months off to care for her, and then resumed his studies. The goal was always before him: to qualify for pastoral ministry.
He completed his studies in the fall of 2011 and was ordained the following year. Now, at age 58, he sent his résumé out to the Nazarene districts in Ohio and Indiana. He waited in vain for a response.
Several months passed by. Jones tried hard not to question his call and keep himself from being discouraged. Then began a series of major setbacks.
At work in January 2013, a steel pipe hit him in the head. An initial medical examination revealed nothing, but a week later, he was overcome with dizziness and vomiting. Further examination indicated a concussion and diabetes. He began insulin treatments, changed his diet, and was off work for eight weeks. He shed 46 pounds of weight. His doctor soon declared that he no longer needed either blood pressure medicine or insulin. Feeling healthy once again, he sent out another round of résumés. Still no response.
At a Prime Time retreat early in 2014, he asked the general superintendent, “How can I get a church to pastor?”
The superintendent responded, “Unfortunately, being trained and ordained does not guarantee that you will receive a call to a church.”
A month later, he suffered a stroke and the doctor found a blood clot on his brain, apparently the result of the head injury. Another eight weeks of rehab.
After Jones got back on his feet, he stopped by the middle school to watch the girls’ softball team practicing. He introduced himself to Coach Herb Bergman. After some conversation, the coach said, “How would you like to come and pray with my team before their game?”
At that moment, Jones found his ministry. Or . . . his ministry found him.
Jones began meeting with the team, not only for prayer but also for times of devotions.
Encouraged by the team’s response, Jones offered his services to other school teams. Cautious about any potential controversy in having a Christian minister involved in a publicly tax-funded school, they initially declined. Then in November, both a boys’ and a girls’ basketball team invited Jones to begin meeting with them. Now he was ministering to some 50 athletes.
In October 2015, he attended an awards banquet for a girls’ basketball team and the coach asked, “Can you come and lead my team in devotions?” During a game, a woman came up to him with a request: “Would you meet for prayer with my cheerleading squad?”
In May 2016, a new football coach invited Jones to pray with his team in the upcoming season. In August, Jones attended a fundraiser and was asked to begin meeting with the volleyball team.
As his sports ministry grows, Jones says, “Can you believe this? I am in ministry but I don’t have to worry about church budgets, meeting with church boards, maintaining a building, or any of that. I can focus on being a friend to these young people and investing in their lives before they graduate from high school.”
Jones bought his first cell phone to make himself always available to any troubled student who needed someone to talk with. By then he was ministering to a volleyball team, football team, boys’ and girls’ basketball teams, a cheerleading squad and the softball team.
His pastor at Ossian Church of the Nazarene, Bob Miller, said, “Nothing gets in the way of Steve’s ministering to these kids. He is passionate about this young generation and reaching them while he has the opportunity. Many of these kids don’t attend church. Steve is an avid student of the Word, and he brings it to these young athletes. He wants to make his mark on them now.”
Coach Herb Bergman said, “I expected him to just pray with my softball team, but he goes beyond that with devotions and friendship. He really cares about all these students. For certain reasons, I can’t call him a chaplain, but that is the role he fills.”
"He is a great model for ministry outside the box. He is genuine in his love for the kids and we are all very proud of him," said Dr. David Roland, Northeast Indiana District superintendent.
In January of this year, the engine in his car blew, forcing him to buy a new one. Then in October, his company downsized and eliminated his job. Now he is looking for new employment that will not interfere with his sports ministry. The Nazarene pastor in Pleasantville passed away and Jones is making the 50 mile round trip each Sunday to serve as interim pastor.
Steven Jones prepared himself to answer the call to ministry. When the opportunities came, they were not what he expected, but they are what God ordained. He finds joy and fulfillment doing what God set before him.
Read more
Global Ministry Center
Stewardship Ministries announces 2016-2017 scholarship contest for USA/Canada students
Each year, Stewardship Ministries invests in Christian education and religion students by awarding scholarships to up five winners of a sermon contest.
"We recognize that understanding the blessing and communicating the discipline of generosity is an important skill for ministers to attain," said Mark Lail, Stewardship Ministries director. "We challenge ministry students to write and submit a stewardship sermon in the hopes that they will learn to teach the blessing of generosity to their congregations."
This year's submissions should be based on Deuteronomy 8:17-18, explore tithing and sacrificial giving, relate to funding the mission of the Church of the Nazarene (to make Christlike disciples in the nations), and exemplify a Wesleyan-Holiness perspective. Fulltime religion and Christian education students attending Nazarene colleges, universities, and seminaries in the USA and Canada are eligible to participate.
The submission deadline is April 4, 2017. Winners will be announced in May. The $1,000 scholarship funds will be credited directly to each winner's student account balance.
For example sermons and additional instructions, click here.[Stewardship Ministries]Read more
Nazarenes in the News
Bayshore Education Center Executive Director Matt Paul, right, and his father, Pastor Gene R. Paul, shop for rice at Costco in Naples on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016. Timeless Worth Coaching and Consulting LLC and Bayshore Education Center are teaming up to send food and supplies to Haiti through Naples New Haitian Church of The Nazarene. (Naples Daily News photo)
Nazarenes in the News is a compilation of online news articles featuring Nazarene churches or church members.
Florida pastor leads effort to send food, water to Haitians in need
Naples, Florida
(Naples Daily News, November 15) More than a month has passed since Hurricane Matthew battered Haiti as the Category 4 storm barreled through the Caribbean, killing hundreds of people and rendering many more homeless.
Since then attention in the United States has shifted toward the Chicago Cubs winning the World Series, the country electing a new president and other domestic issues.
But Matt Paul, executive director of the Naples-based nonprofit Bayshore Education Center, his dad, Pastor Jean R. Paul, of the Naples New Haitian Church of The Nazarene, and Esther Lully, a local consultant who partnered with the duo, haven’t forgotten about the ravaged Caribbean country.
“It almost seems as though it was just a hot topic for the week or so,” said Lully, 31. “But there’s people that (are) still being affected by this. So the cause has to continue.”
For the rest of the story, click here.
Maryland churches to hold joint Thanksgiving service
Hollywood, Maryland
(The Enterprise, November 16)
... Last year, on Nov. 22, the Sunday before Thanksgiving, it was announced that the Rev. Verne Haskell, who had pastored there since 2006, would be retiring during the summer of 2016. His last Sunday was June 26. He and his wife, Judy, have also retired to North Carolina. This year, on Nov. 20, the church will welcome its new pastor, the Rev. Eric Folk, and his family.
Folk is currently serving as pastor of the Martinsburg (West Virginia) Church of the Nazarene. The Hollywood and Martinsburg churches are part of the Mid-Atlantic District of the Church of the Nazarene. The Folks’ last Sunday in West Virginia was Nov. 13. The family then moved into the parsonage at the Nazarene church, which the people of Hollywood Nazarene have been diligently working to remodel.
For the rest of the story, click here.
Stories to share? Send them to news@nazarene.org.[Compiled by NCN News]Read more
Nairobi, Kenya
Following and leaving footsteps: ANU celebrates 19th graduation
Africa Nazarene University celebrated its 19th graduating class 28 October with many family and friends. The class of about 1,400 included Kenya Senator Beatrice Elachi, currently serving as the majority whip, who completed her Master of Science in Governance.
The festivities included many smaller events, including the induction of 19 members to the Phi Delta Lambda Honor Society. At the Phi Delta Lambda luncheon, Vice Chancellor Leah Marangu reminded students and their families that what they had done up to that point was history; what counts is what they will do after graduation. She added that "if you travel through the mud to get to where you are going, that is something to tell your grandchildren." She wanted students to follow her lead and not take the easy way, but find a way to improve the world. She urged "Find your cause!"
Richard Omoro, Phi Delta Lambda member and area manager for Kenya Airways, agreed, stating that if the goal is to be a change agent, the students should take jobs that may pay less at the beginning but will have more impact in the future. He said making money is not the ultimate goal; living out the ANU motto — What begins here transforms the world — is.
Commencement guest speaker Margaret Kobia, chairperson of the Public Service Commission and Marangu's former student, encouraged students to "go out with great confidence in the footsteps of ANU's distinguished alumni." She cited many alumni who have won awards, started businesses, and impacted society.
A moment of silence was observed as a tribute to the head of the Environment and Resource Management Department, Isaac Kigatiira, who recently died. Not only was he respected by those who study bees, his area of expertise, he helped start schools and churches in the area surrounding ANU.
Nearly 500 graduates emerged from the Education Department ready to impact schools across the area. Degrees awarded for the first time included Masters of Science in Applied Technology, Master of Environment and Natural Resource Management, Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Security Management, Masters of Science in Applied Technology, Master of Environment and Natural Resource Management, and Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Security Management.[Church of the Nazarene Africa Region via Out of Africa]Read more
Manzini, Swaziland
SANU holds 'grand and glorious' graduation
Southern Africa Nazarene University celebrated its 7th graduation 28 October as 374 students accepted their degrees from Africa's newest Nazarene educational institution. Vice Chancellor Winnie Nhlengethwa said it was "A grand and glorious celebration."
As is the custom in Swaziland, King Mswati III was at this celebration by way of his representative, Prince David Dlamini. Through the prince, the king expressed how he is looking forward to SANU being a leader in the establishment of a university sanctioned by all of the countries in southern Africa.
"We applaud SANU for forging partnerships with other higher education institutions," he said. "SANU is an institution in good standing with the Association of African Universities."
The ceremony also celebrated the first year of issuing Bachelor of Science degrees in medical laboratory sciences and in the area of nurse anesthetist. Nhlengethwa was excited about this important advancement for the university and its students.
SANU continues to look toward the future and looks forward to many more successful graduations in the future.[Church of the Nazarene Africa Region via Out of Africa]Read more
San Jose, Costa Rica
SENDAS graduates participate through ceremony, live streaming
Nazarene Seminary of the Americas (Seminario Nazareno de las Américas, SENDAS) celebrated graduation November 5 as eight students received their diplomas in the presence of their families, friends, and the SENDAS faculty. Thirteen other graduates were not able to attend the service in Costa Rica, but had the opportunity to follow the service via live streaming from Panama, Ecuador, Mexico, and Costa Rica.
The graduation was dedicated to Ezekiel Juanta Diaz, one of the first SENDAS students in the 1970s, and Celia Sara Perez Mejia, who served at SENDAS as a missionary twice throughout her career. Diaz established the Church of the Nazarene in Tibas, where he remained at the same church for 45 years until he passed away in 2015. Mejia, who served SENDAS along with her husband, Miguel, passed away in July. Both families received plaques in memory.
A distinguished service award was presented with appreciation to Miguel and Irene Garita, missionaries on the Mesoamerica Region who serve SENDAS professors in family care.
Harold Segura, regional director of Church Relations for World Vision, shared a message about the life of Moses, encouraging everyone to obey God without excuses. Mexico Field Strategy Coordinator Jorge Baños awarded the diplomas to the graduates, and a prayer of consecration was led by Costa Rica Central District Superintendent Sirlene Bustos.[Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica Region]Read more
Nashville, Tennessee
Trevecca launches largest giving campaign in university history
Trevecca Nazarene University launched the public phase of a $75 million capital campaign November 4. The announcement is the culmination of a year marked by record enrollment gains, valuable property acquisitions, and much-anticipated campus and community betterment projects.
More than $52.8 million has already been pledged toward the $75 million goal during the quiet phase of the campaign. Key donors, both alumni and friends of the university, made commitments toward the campaign.
The fundraising effort is the largest in the university’s 115-year history. Announced in a musical showcase during the university’s Homecoming Weekend celebration, the campaign is centered on the theme “Making Great Stories Possible.” While the campaign is comprehensive and includes all gifts and pledges made through the 2015-2020 time period, the campaign is centered on six goals, which include expanding scholarship funds, enhancing facilities, ensuring future impact, and building operational infrastructure.
“When the announcement of the quiet phase total was made, there was a palpable joy in the auditorium,” said Dan Boone, university president. “This tells me that Trevecca is etched into the fabric of thousands of lives. Each person has a story from their past association with Trevecca. It is now our time to assure that coming generations will have the same transformative etching on their lives.”
Trevecca alumnus and board member Wendel Nixon (Class of 1972), a resident of Columbia, South Carolina, will serve as the chair of the campaign steering committee. Other volunteer committee members include Deborah Story (’94) of Brentwood, Tennessee, Roy Rogers (’69) of Locust Grove, Georgia, and Charles Davis (’70) of Winter Haven, Florida.
Nixon is excited to invite Trevecca students, alumni, friends of the university and the public to participate in the campaign.
“We all can choose to be a part of this story," he said. "No matter if amounts you choose to contribute are great or small; you can be a part of the story. My challenge to classmates, former and present students, and everyone acquainted with Trevecca is to contribute according to the blessings that you have received. Make a difference and join in this opportunity to be a part of the continuing Trevecca story!”
Specific campaign goals include:
In Memoriam
The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received November 14-18, 2016.
Richard Frye, 80, of Morrow, Ohio, passed away November 15. He was a retired minister, serving in Ohio. He is survived by his wife, Carol Frye.
Lynn Johnson, 69, of Greenbrier, Arkansas, passed away November 17. He was a retired minister, serving in Arkansas and Louisiana. He is survived by his wife, Kathryn Johnson.
Frank Paul, 82, of Pinehill, New Mexico, passed away November 14. He was a retired minister, serving in New Mexico. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Paul.
Ruby (Fulton) Robnett, 92, of Willow Park, Texas, passed away November 14. She was the widow of retired minister Clifton Robnett, who served in Texas, Missouri, and Illinois. Clifton Robnett passed away in 2006.
For previous editions of In Memoriam, see the "Passings" section by clicking here.
Note: Please join us in prayer for the families who have lost loved ones. Click on names for full stories, funeral information, local online obituaries, and/or guest books (if available). To submit an entry of a minister or church leader, send to news@nazarene.org.[Compiled by NCN News]Read more
Human Resources
GMC employment opportunities
Also available: Español
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 jveigl@nazarene.org for details.
Employment Opportunities
Administrative Assistant (Full time)
General Superintendents’ OfficeDescription: This person provides editing and proofreading for the BGS Office, coordinates travel logistics and maintains itineraries for the BGS, and provides general administrative support.
Administrative Assistant (Full time)
Pensions & Benefits USADescription: This person will lead/manage special and cyclical projects, provide administrative assistance to the administrative director, coordinate education/training of internal staff and plan participants, ensure that appropriate resources and support are provided to complete projects, process customer services inquiries, and assist with monitoring and posting items to P&B USA social media outlets (Facebook/Twitter).
Benefits Technician (Full time)
Pensions and Benefits OfficeDescription: This person primarily assists the benefits supervisor with the processing/review of all benefit plans administered by Pensions and Benefits USA and Pensions and Benefits – International.
Communication Specialist (Full time)
Global Mission AdministrationDescription: This person provides insight and supports the work of the Global Mission administrative director; helps foster collaborative communication efforts between the regions and Global Mission team; advances the implementation and continuous improvement of the Global Mission communication strategy; collaborates on the improvement of existing and the creation of new initiatives, stories, and projects; and participates in and assist in the development of communication procedures and planning of meaningful gatherings for communicators.
Deputation/Home Assignment Coordinator (Full time)
Global Mission Personnel OfficeDescription: This person works directly with missionaries, creating and facilitating training to assure maximum effectiveness during home assignment. Other responsibilities include working with local and district church leaders in understanding and engaging missionaries while in their church(es), coordinating scheduling for deputation in churches and district events, and connecting local churches and districts with missionaries to encourage stewardship and relationship.
Human Resources Assistant (Full time)
Human ResourcesDescription: This person provides support by performing administrative duties to ensure the daily, efficient operations of the HR office. This person carries out responsibilities in assigned areas of employment, benefits, records, and employee relations, as well as assists the HR staff with implementation of services, policies, and programs.
Project Assistant (Part time, 30 hours per week)
Stewardship MinistriesDescription: This person works on a grant-funded project in the area of stewardship, assisting in all areas of development and administration of the project. The position is temporary and is expected to last for three years.
Receptionist (Full time)
Business CenterDescription: This position will provide quality service and hospitality to callers, guests, and offices of the Global Ministry Center. A majority of the time will be spent at the front desk communicating with various employees, constituents, and others via phone, email, and in person. The receptionist will be asked to serve in other roles within the Business Center as needed.
Technology Specialist (Full time)
Pensions & Benefits USADescription: This position will assist the technology supervisor in developing and maintaining the technology resources available to the Pensions and Benefits USA office and its constituents. This will include Web content management, development of systems for document storage and retrieval, assistance with upkeep of other business databases, resolution of basic desktop issues, and assistance with technology-related communication and training.
To obtain additional information, please call 913-577-0500 and ask for Human Resources.
Location of our PositionsThe 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 PolicyThe 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 OrganizationWe are a faith-based organization. Acceptance of our Christian Code of Conduct is required and membership in the Church of the Nazarene is required for certain positions. The GMC and applicable remote work sites are smoke-, alcohol-, and drug-free Christian workplaces.
Application ProcessingOur Human Resources Office receives and processes many employment applications annually for a limited number of positions. While we regret that we cannot respond to each applicant, we do contact those individuals possessing the skills, education/training, and experience that best match the requirements of the open position for which the application was submitted.
An application must be completed by all applicants and an application must be completed for each position for which one wishes to be considered. Applications are retained for one year. Resumés are not necessary for entry-level positions, but they are preferred for professional level positions.
Applying for Employment with the GMCApplication forms may be requested by calling 913-577-0500, emailing humanresourcesgroup@nazarene.org, or obtained in person from Human Resources at the Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center, 17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Lenexa, Kansas, 66220, Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 4:30 U.S. Central Time. Completed applications may be mailed or emailed to the attention of the Human Resources Office.Read more
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The Church of the Nazarene News in Lenexa, Kansas, United States: General Assembly service project info for Friday, 11 November 2016 from Nazarene Communications Network News "This week in the Church of the Nazarene..." Volume 1645
Indianapolis, Indiana
OHMH invites volunteers for General Assembly service project
The Church of the Nazarene believes in empowering laypeople to serve. This is evident around the world, including the tens of thousands of Nazarenes mobilized through the One Heart – Many Hands service projects over the last 24 years.
OHMH is calling all past, present, and future volunteers to join in a Work & Witness project in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, June 18 to 23, 2017, the week prior to the denomination’s General Assembly and Conventions.
This project will kick off a new, five-year initiative to repair, rehab, and rebuild more than 400 homes and build 20 new homes in the 46201 zip code.
Communities in this zip code are dotted with dilapidated or abandoned homes. Single parents, many of whom live below the poverty line, dominate the population. Help is sorely needed, but not easily available.
“What we do now will not only have a positive impact today, but will plant seeds of change that will continue growing for generations,” said George Sisler, OHMH president.
In 1993, OHMH founder Dr. Gary Morsch organized the first weeklong service project to accompany a Church of the Nazarene General Assembly. That project, also in Indianapolis, included about 25 locations. At the 20th anniversary project, there were more than 120 project locations and 1,800 volunteers.
The next project in 2017 is slated to be one of the largest yet with 2,000 volunteers. This project is perfect for individuals or groups of any size, and volunteers of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Early registration ends January 31 and is $195. Click here to request an information packet and be a part of this tradition.
For more on General Assembly, visit nazarene.org/ga.
[One Heart – Many Hands]Read more
Mount Vernon, Ohio
MVNU president renewed for 4-year term
The Mount Vernon Nazarene University Board of Trustees unanimously passed a renewal vote for a four-year term of its seventh president, Henry W. Spaulding II, November 4. The MVNU Board of Trustees met November 3 and 4 for its biannual meeting.
“The unanimous vote of the MVNU Board of Trustees is a celebratory expression of confidence in the leadership of President Henry Spaulding," said Geoff Kunselman, Board of Trustees chair. "These are outstanding days for MVNU: increasing enrollment, new facilities and programs, and a tremendous sense of forward momentum.”
Following the resignation of Dan Martin, Spaulding served as interim president from April to November 2012. Spaulding first came to MVNU in 2009 as provost and chief academic officer.
“It has been a pleasure to serve as MVNU president for the last four years,” Spaulding said. “There will no doubt be challenges ahead, but I trust in the resources of the Christian faith and wisdom of the MVNU community as we move forward together. I want to thank my wife for her love, counsel, and passion for MVNU."
Prior to MVNU, Spaulding was professor of philosophical theology and Christian ethics at Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri, from 2007-2009, and served as the director of the Master of Divinity program. Spaulding has also served as a professor at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tennessee; Eastern Nazarene College in Quincy, Massachusetts, and as a senior pastor at several churches.
Spaulding has also published several articles in the Wesleyan Theological Journal addressing and exploring the impact of the intersection of postmodern philosophy on Wesleyan-Holiness theology. He has also published two books on Christian theology and ethics.
Spaulding and his wife, Sharon, have three adult children, Shelly, Megan, and Henry III, and four grandchildren.[Mount Vernon Nazarene University]Read more
The Justice Movement
Just Water unfolds in Sri Lanka
The Justice Movement, born in July 2015 as a partnership between Nazarene Youth International and Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, exists to help youth partner with churches to make an impact in the world.
The group challenges students and leaders to drink water in order to become advocates for clean water and to raise funds for global water, sanitation, and hygiene education programs.
“In one short year, we’ve made a huge impact together,” said Brooklyn Lindsey, global justice advocate for the Church of the Nazarene. “To date, Just Water participants have raised over US$80,000 for WASH programs globally. We celebrate the voice and generosity of a global church!”
In August, The Justice Movement took a trip across the country of Sri Lanka with NCM leaders and NYI students from four different countries — Australia, the U.S., India, and Sri Lanka.
The trip was to initiate WASH programs in two villages where NCM is currently working.
Nazarene Youth International was able to be involved in the holistic development of communities in need thanks to an empowering church with a growing young leaders mindset.
“The work continues through NCM Sri Lanka/Global NYI, and we hope you will pray for [all of us] as we meet needs and share the love of Jesus Christ together in these communities and in future communities,” Lindsey said.
The Justice Movement exists to make helping others easier by providing simple ways to love justice and to live compassionately.
Nazarenes are invited to
● learn about injustice
● become advocate storytellers
● creatively raise funds for people in need
“More than 31 teams from 10 different countries worked together to create change for brothers and sisters in Sri Lanka, and thousands have joined the movement by taking Just Water Challenges and fundraising,” Lindsey said. “We hope you’ll join us too!”
Start a justice journey today by learning more at justicemovement.com or giving at justwater.causevox.com.[The Justice Movement]Read more
Haiti, Mesoamerica Region
Hurricane Matthew update: 'Generosity has reached more than 530 families in Haiti'
Missionary Fleur Van der Most, who is leading disaster response communications for the Mesoamerica Region after Hurricane Matthew, shared the following update:
Nashville, Tennessee
Building confidence: Mentoring ministry empowers youth to overcome their circumstances
Through mentoring, Stephen, Jordan, and Malik are gaining the confidence to overcome difficult circumstances.
Global Ministry Center
Stewardship Ministries announces 2016-2017 scholarship contest for USA/Canada students
Each year, Stewardship Ministries invests in Christian education and religion students by awarding scholarships to up five winners of a sermon contest.
"We recognize that understanding the blessing and communicating the discipline of generosity is an important skill for ministers to attain," said Mark Lail, Stewardship Ministries director. "We challenge ministry students to write and submit a stewardship sermon in the hopes that they will learn to teach the blessing of generosity to their congregations."
This year's submissions should be based on Deuteronomy 8:17-18, explore tithing and sacrificial giving, relate to funding the mission of the Church of the Nazarene (to make Christlike disciples in the nations), and exemplify a Wesleyan-Holiness perspective. Fulltime religion and Christian education students attending Nazarene colleges, universities, and seminaries in the USA and Canada are eligible to participate.
The submission deadline is April 4, 2017. Winners will be announced in May. The $1,000 scholarship funds will be credited directly to each winner's student account balance.
For example sermons and additional instructions, click here.[Stewardship Ministries]Read more
Nazarenes in the News
Bayshore Education Center Executive Director Matt Paul, right, and his father, Pastor Gene R. Paul, shop for rice at Costco in Naples on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016. Timeless Worth Coaching and Consulting LLC and Bayshore Education Center are teaming up to send food and supplies to Haiti through Naples New Haitian Church of The Nazarene. (Naples Daily News photo)
Nazarenes in the News is a compilation of online news articles featuring Nazarene churches or church members.
Florida pastor leads effort to send food, water to Haitians in need
Naples, Florida
(Naples Daily News, November 15) More than a month has passed since Hurricane Matthew battered Haiti as the Category 4 storm barreled through the Caribbean, killing hundreds of people and rendering many more homeless.
Since then attention in the United States has shifted toward the Chicago Cubs winning the World Series, the country electing a new president and other domestic issues.
But Matt Paul, executive director of the Naples-based nonprofit Bayshore Education Center, his dad, Pastor Jean R. Paul, of the Naples New Haitian Church of The Nazarene, and Esther Lully, a local consultant who partnered with the duo, haven’t forgotten about the ravaged Caribbean country.
“It almost seems as though it was just a hot topic for the week or so,” said Lully, 31. “But there’s people that (are) still being affected by this. So the cause has to continue.”
For the rest of the story, click here.
Maryland churches to hold joint Thanksgiving service
Hollywood, Maryland
(The Enterprise, November 16)
... Last year, on Nov. 22, the Sunday before Thanksgiving, it was announced that the Rev. Verne Haskell, who had pastored there since 2006, would be retiring during the summer of 2016. His last Sunday was June 26. He and his wife, Judy, have also retired to North Carolina. This year, on Nov. 20, the church will welcome its new pastor, the Rev. Eric Folk, and his family.
Folk is currently serving as pastor of the Martinsburg (West Virginia) Church of the Nazarene. The Hollywood and Martinsburg churches are part of the Mid-Atlantic District of the Church of the Nazarene. The Folks’ last Sunday in West Virginia was Nov. 13. The family then moved into the parsonage at the Nazarene church, which the people of Hollywood Nazarene have been diligently working to remodel.
For the rest of the story, click here.
Stories to share? Send them to news@nazarene.org.[Compiled by NCN News]Read more
Nairobi, Kenya
Following and leaving footsteps: ANU celebrates 19th graduation
Africa Nazarene University celebrated its 19th graduating class 28 October with many family and friends. The class of about 1,400 included Kenya Senator Beatrice Elachi, currently serving as the majority whip, who completed her Master of Science in Governance.
The festivities included many smaller events, including the induction of 19 members to the Phi Delta Lambda Honor Society. At the Phi Delta Lambda luncheon, Vice Chancellor Leah Marangu reminded students and their families that what they had done up to that point was history; what counts is what they will do after graduation. She added that "if you travel through the mud to get to where you are going, that is something to tell your grandchildren." She wanted students to follow her lead and not take the easy way, but find a way to improve the world. She urged "Find your cause!"
Richard Omoro, Phi Delta Lambda member and area manager for Kenya Airways, agreed, stating that if the goal is to be a change agent, the students should take jobs that may pay less at the beginning but will have more impact in the future. He said making money is not the ultimate goal; living out the ANU motto — What begins here transforms the world — is.
Commencement guest speaker Margaret Kobia, chairperson of the Public Service Commission and Marangu's former student, encouraged students to "go out with great confidence in the footsteps of ANU's distinguished alumni." She cited many alumni who have won awards, started businesses, and impacted society.
A moment of silence was observed as a tribute to the head of the Environment and Resource Management Department, Isaac Kigatiira, who recently died. Not only was he respected by those who study bees, his area of expertise, he helped start schools and churches in the area surrounding ANU.
Nearly 500 graduates emerged from the Education Department ready to impact schools across the area. Degrees awarded for the first time included Masters of Science in Applied Technology, Master of Environment and Natural Resource Management, Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Security Management, Masters of Science in Applied Technology, Master of Environment and Natural Resource Management, and Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Security Management.[Church of the Nazarene Africa Region via Out of Africa]Read more
Manzini, Swaziland
SANU holds 'grand and glorious' graduation
Southern Africa Nazarene University celebrated its 7th graduation 28 October as 374 students accepted their degrees from Africa's newest Nazarene educational institution. Vice Chancellor Winnie Nhlengethwa said it was "A grand and glorious celebration."
As is the custom in Swaziland, King Mswati III was at this celebration by way of his representative, Prince David Dlamini. Through the prince, the king expressed how he is looking forward to SANU being a leader in the establishment of a university sanctioned by all of the countries in southern Africa.
"We applaud SANU for forging partnerships with other higher education institutions," he said. "SANU is an institution in good standing with the Association of African Universities."
The ceremony also celebrated the first year of issuing Bachelor of Science degrees in medical laboratory sciences and in the area of nurse anesthetist. Nhlengethwa was excited about this important advancement for the university and its students.
SANU continues to look toward the future and looks forward to many more successful graduations in the future.[Church of the Nazarene Africa Region via Out of Africa]Read more
San Jose, Costa Rica
SENDAS graduates participate through ceremony, live streaming
Nazarene Seminary of the Americas (Seminario Nazareno de las Américas, SENDAS) celebrated graduation November 5 as eight students received their diplomas in the presence of their families, friends, and the SENDAS faculty. Thirteen other graduates were not able to attend the service in Costa Rica, but had the opportunity to follow the service via live streaming from Panama, Ecuador, Mexico, and Costa Rica.
The graduation was dedicated to Ezekiel Juanta Diaz, one of the first SENDAS students in the 1970s, and Celia Sara Perez Mejia, who served at SENDAS as a missionary twice throughout her career. Diaz established the Church of the Nazarene in Tibas, where he remained at the same church for 45 years until he passed away in 2015. Mejia, who served SENDAS along with her husband, Miguel, passed away in July. Both families received plaques in memory.
A distinguished service award was presented with appreciation to Miguel and Irene Garita, missionaries on the Mesoamerica Region who serve SENDAS professors in family care.
Harold Segura, regional director of Church Relations for World Vision, shared a message about the life of Moses, encouraging everyone to obey God without excuses. Mexico Field Strategy Coordinator Jorge Baños awarded the diplomas to the graduates, and a prayer of consecration was led by Costa Rica Central District Superintendent Sirlene Bustos.[Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica Region]Read more
Nashville, Tennessee
Trevecca launches largest giving campaign in university history
Trevecca Nazarene University launched the public phase of a $75 million capital campaign November 4. The announcement is the culmination of a year marked by record enrollment gains, valuable property acquisitions, and much-anticipated campus and community betterment projects.
More than $52.8 million has already been pledged toward the $75 million goal during the quiet phase of the campaign. Key donors, both alumni and friends of the university, made commitments toward the campaign.
The fundraising effort is the largest in the university’s 115-year history. Announced in a musical showcase during the university’s Homecoming Weekend celebration, the campaign is centered on the theme “Making Great Stories Possible.” While the campaign is comprehensive and includes all gifts and pledges made through the 2015-2020 time period, the campaign is centered on six goals, which include expanding scholarship funds, enhancing facilities, ensuring future impact, and building operational infrastructure.
“When the announcement of the quiet phase total was made, there was a palpable joy in the auditorium,” said Dan Boone, university president. “This tells me that Trevecca is etched into the fabric of thousands of lives. Each person has a story from their past association with Trevecca. It is now our time to assure that coming generations will have the same transformative etching on their lives.”
Trevecca alumnus and board member Wendel Nixon (Class of 1972), a resident of Columbia, South Carolina, will serve as the chair of the campaign steering committee. Other volunteer committee members include Deborah Story (’94) of Brentwood, Tennessee, Roy Rogers (’69) of Locust Grove, Georgia, and Charles Davis (’70) of Winter Haven, Florida.
Nixon is excited to invite Trevecca students, alumni, friends of the university and the public to participate in the campaign.
“We all can choose to be a part of this story," he said. "No matter if amounts you choose to contribute are great or small; you can be a part of the story. My challenge to classmates, former and present students, and everyone acquainted with Trevecca is to contribute according to the blessings that you have received. Make a difference and join in this opportunity to be a part of the continuing Trevecca story!”
Specific campaign goals include:
- Reducing debt of graduating students and expanding available scholarship funds so more students can experience Trevecca’ educational experience, $13 million;
- Expanding and updating Trevecca’s music facilities — including the Center for Music and Worship Arts currently under construction — so graduates better serve the community, schools, and the church, $5 million;
- Expanding athletic facilities to better serve NCAA Division II athletic programs and a growing student body, $4 million;
- Increasing staffing and expanding Trevecca’s Urban Farm to create greater opportunities for student employment and research opportunities as well as community outreach, $1 million;
- Building operational infrastructure to support university growth, $2 million;
- Focusing on estate planning to ensure the university’s future impact on Christian higher education and the world, $50 million.
In Memoriam
The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received November 14-18, 2016.
Richard Frye, 80, of Morrow, Ohio, passed away November 15. He was a retired minister, serving in Ohio. He is survived by his wife, Carol Frye.
Lynn Johnson, 69, of Greenbrier, Arkansas, passed away November 17. He was a retired minister, serving in Arkansas and Louisiana. He is survived by his wife, Kathryn Johnson.
Frank Paul, 82, of Pinehill, New Mexico, passed away November 14. He was a retired minister, serving in New Mexico. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Paul.
Ruby (Fulton) Robnett, 92, of Willow Park, Texas, passed away November 14. She was the widow of retired minister Clifton Robnett, who served in Texas, Missouri, and Illinois. Clifton Robnett passed away in 2006.
For previous editions of In Memoriam, see the "Passings" section by clicking here.
Note: Please join us in prayer for the families who have lost loved ones. Click on names for full stories, funeral information, local online obituaries, and/or guest books (if available). To submit an entry of a minister or church leader, send to news@nazarene.org.[Compiled by NCN News]Read more
Human Resources
GMC employment opportunities
Also available: Español
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 jveigl@nazarene.org for details.
Employment Opportunities
Administrative Assistant (Full time)
General Superintendents’ OfficeDescription: This person provides editing and proofreading for the BGS Office, coordinates travel logistics and maintains itineraries for the BGS, and provides general administrative support.
Administrative Assistant (Full time)
Pensions & Benefits USADescription: This person will lead/manage special and cyclical projects, provide administrative assistance to the administrative director, coordinate education/training of internal staff and plan participants, ensure that appropriate resources and support are provided to complete projects, process customer services inquiries, and assist with monitoring and posting items to P&B USA social media outlets (Facebook/Twitter).
Benefits Technician (Full time)
Pensions and Benefits OfficeDescription: This person primarily assists the benefits supervisor with the processing/review of all benefit plans administered by Pensions and Benefits USA and Pensions and Benefits – International.
Communication Specialist (Full time)
Global Mission AdministrationDescription: This person provides insight and supports the work of the Global Mission administrative director; helps foster collaborative communication efforts between the regions and Global Mission team; advances the implementation and continuous improvement of the Global Mission communication strategy; collaborates on the improvement of existing and the creation of new initiatives, stories, and projects; and participates in and assist in the development of communication procedures and planning of meaningful gatherings for communicators.
Deputation/Home Assignment Coordinator (Full time)
Global Mission Personnel OfficeDescription: This person works directly with missionaries, creating and facilitating training to assure maximum effectiveness during home assignment. Other responsibilities include working with local and district church leaders in understanding and engaging missionaries while in their church(es), coordinating scheduling for deputation in churches and district events, and connecting local churches and districts with missionaries to encourage stewardship and relationship.
Human Resources Assistant (Full time)
Human ResourcesDescription: This person provides support by performing administrative duties to ensure the daily, efficient operations of the HR office. This person carries out responsibilities in assigned areas of employment, benefits, records, and employee relations, as well as assists the HR staff with implementation of services, policies, and programs.
Project Assistant (Part time, 30 hours per week)
Stewardship MinistriesDescription: This person works on a grant-funded project in the area of stewardship, assisting in all areas of development and administration of the project. The position is temporary and is expected to last for three years.
Receptionist (Full time)
Business CenterDescription: This position will provide quality service and hospitality to callers, guests, and offices of the Global Ministry Center. A majority of the time will be spent at the front desk communicating with various employees, constituents, and others via phone, email, and in person. The receptionist will be asked to serve in other roles within the Business Center as needed.
Technology Specialist (Full time)
Pensions & Benefits USADescription: This position will assist the technology supervisor in developing and maintaining the technology resources available to the Pensions and Benefits USA office and its constituents. This will include Web content management, development of systems for document storage and retrieval, assistance with upkeep of other business databases, resolution of basic desktop issues, and assistance with technology-related communication and training.
To obtain additional information, please call 913-577-0500 and ask for Human Resources.
Location of our PositionsThe 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 PolicyThe 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 OrganizationWe are a faith-based organization. Acceptance of our Christian Code of Conduct is required and membership in the Church of the Nazarene is required for certain positions. The GMC and applicable remote work sites are smoke-, alcohol-, and drug-free Christian workplaces.
Application ProcessingOur Human Resources Office receives and processes many employment applications annually for a limited number of positions. While we regret that we cannot respond to each applicant, we do contact those individuals possessing the skills, education/training, and experience that best match the requirements of the open position for which the application was submitted.
An application must be completed by all applicants and an application must be completed for each position for which one wishes to be considered. Applications are retained for one year. Resumés are not necessary for entry-level positions, but they are preferred for professional level positions.
Applying for Employment with the GMCApplication forms may be requested by calling 913-577-0500, emailing humanresourcesgroup@nazarene.org, or obtained in person from Human Resources at the Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center, 17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Lenexa, Kansas, 66220, Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 4:30 U.S. Central Time. Completed applications may be mailed or emailed to the attention of the Human Resources Office.Read more
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The Church of the Nazarene News in Lenexa, Kansas, United States: General Assembly service project info for Friday, 11 November 2016 from Nazarene Communications Network News "This week in the Church of the Nazarene..." Volume 1645
Indianapolis, Indiana
OHMH invites volunteers for General Assembly service project
The Church of the Nazarene believes in empowering laypeople to serve. This is evident around the world, including the tens of thousands of Nazarenes mobilized through the One Heart – Many Hands service projects over the last 24 years.
OHMH is calling all past, present, and future volunteers to join in a Work & Witness project in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, June 18 to 23, 2017, the week prior to the denomination’s General Assembly and Conventions.
This project will kick off a new, five-year initiative to repair, rehab, and rebuild more than 400 homes and build 20 new homes in the 46201 zip code.
Communities in this zip code are dotted with dilapidated or abandoned homes. Single parents, many of whom live below the poverty line, dominate the population. Help is sorely needed, but not easily available.
“What we do now will not only have a positive impact today, but will plant seeds of change that will continue growing for generations,” said George Sisler, OHMH president.
In 1993, OHMH founder Dr. Gary Morsch organized the first weeklong service project to accompany a Church of the Nazarene General Assembly. That project, also in Indianapolis, included about 25 locations. At the 20th anniversary project, there were more than 120 project locations and 1,800 volunteers.
The next project in 2017 is slated to be one of the largest yet with 2,000 volunteers. This project is perfect for individuals or groups of any size, and volunteers of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Early registration ends January 31 and is $195. Click here to request an information packet and be a part of this tradition.
For more on General Assembly, visit nazarene.org/ga.
[One Heart – Many Hands]Read more
Mount Vernon, Ohio
MVNU president renewed for 4-year term
The Mount Vernon Nazarene University Board of Trustees unanimously passed a renewal vote for a four-year term of its seventh president, Henry W. Spaulding II, November 4. The MVNU Board of Trustees met November 3 and 4 for its biannual meeting.
“The unanimous vote of the MVNU Board of Trustees is a celebratory expression of confidence in the leadership of President Henry Spaulding," said Geoff Kunselman, Board of Trustees chair. "These are outstanding days for MVNU: increasing enrollment, new facilities and programs, and a tremendous sense of forward momentum.”
Following the resignation of Dan Martin, Spaulding served as interim president from April to November 2012. Spaulding first came to MVNU in 2009 as provost and chief academic officer.
“It has been a pleasure to serve as MVNU president for the last four years,” Spaulding said. “There will no doubt be challenges ahead, but I trust in the resources of the Christian faith and wisdom of the MVNU community as we move forward together. I want to thank my wife for her love, counsel, and passion for MVNU."
Prior to MVNU, Spaulding was professor of philosophical theology and Christian ethics at Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri, from 2007-2009, and served as the director of the Master of Divinity program. Spaulding has also served as a professor at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tennessee; Eastern Nazarene College in Quincy, Massachusetts, and as a senior pastor at several churches.
Spaulding has also published several articles in the Wesleyan Theological Journal addressing and exploring the impact of the intersection of postmodern philosophy on Wesleyan-Holiness theology. He has also published two books on Christian theology and ethics.
Spaulding and his wife, Sharon, have three adult children, Shelly, Megan, and Henry III, and four grandchildren.[Mount Vernon Nazarene University]Read more
The Justice Movement
Just Water unfolds in Sri Lanka
The Justice Movement, born in July 2015 as a partnership between Nazarene Youth International and Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, exists to help youth partner with churches to make an impact in the world.
The group challenges students and leaders to drink water in order to become advocates for clean water and to raise funds for global water, sanitation, and hygiene education programs.
“In one short year, we’ve made a huge impact together,” said Brooklyn Lindsey, global justice advocate for the Church of the Nazarene. “To date, Just Water participants have raised over US$80,000 for WASH programs globally. We celebrate the voice and generosity of a global church!”
In August, The Justice Movement took a trip across the country of Sri Lanka with NCM leaders and NYI students from four different countries — Australia, the U.S., India, and Sri Lanka.
The trip was to initiate WASH programs in two villages where NCM is currently working.
Nazarene Youth International was able to be involved in the holistic development of communities in need thanks to an empowering church with a growing young leaders mindset.
“The work continues through NCM Sri Lanka/Global NYI, and we hope you will pray for [all of us] as we meet needs and share the love of Jesus Christ together in these communities and in future communities,” Lindsey said.
The Justice Movement exists to make helping others easier by providing simple ways to love justice and to live compassionately.
Nazarenes are invited to
● learn about injustice
● become advocate storytellers
● creatively raise funds for people in need
“More than 31 teams from 10 different countries worked together to create change for brothers and sisters in Sri Lanka, and thousands have joined the movement by taking Just Water Challenges and fundraising,” Lindsey said. “We hope you’ll join us too!”
Start a justice journey today by learning more at justicemovement.com or giving at justwater.causevox.com.[The Justice Movement]Read more
Haiti, Mesoamerica Region
Hurricane Matthew update: 'Generosity has reached more than 530 families in Haiti'
Missionary Fleur Van der Most, who is leading disaster response communications for the Mesoamerica Region after Hurricane Matthew, shared the following update:
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries Haiti turned into a small packing and distribution center for the past weeks. All team members are putting in their greatest efforts to bring relief to the people of Haiti who are suffering from the hurricane. In the past two weeks, NCM Haiti has been distributing food and disaster kits to over 530 families.
Right now we have team members driving through the areas that are damaged most to assess needs and gather more information on the size of the disaster. We have teams out on a distribution location in the south of Haiti to deliver food and disaster kits to our brothers and sisters most in need. Other teams are buying food, dividing and packing them as food kits for families.
Sometimes it is hard to get to the people in the areas that are most harmed. Some villages are not connected to roads, which makes it impossible for our trucks to get there. Also people get desperate and try to steal from food delivery trucks. We are still developing our plans to be able to reach as many families as possible in the safest way. Please keep praying for the people who are suffering from the disastrous hurricane.
Nazarene churches in Haiti are collecting money and clothes for the victims of the hurricane. Many people don’t have much, but they feel like they can share with the people who have nothing.
One of the pastors of a church who received support praises God and thanks the church for the help that she is receiving. She is very happy to receive the support.[Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica Region]
Read moreNashville, Tennessee
Building confidence: Mentoring ministry empowers youth to overcome their circumstances
Through mentoring, Stephen, Jordan, and Malik are gaining the confidence to overcome difficult circumstances.
Three boys clamber onto a no-longer-new school bus and are welcomed by cheerful greetings and high fives. Wearing ripped jeans, faded tees, and worn-out sneakers — the uniform of childhood — the boys begin chatting away to their peers and leaders about homework assignments, basketball games, and siblings who bring stray cats home.
Out the bus window, a sea of identical brick buildings, children running around, and used furniture scattered on lawns begins to fade from sight.
It’s hard to imagine that just over two miles away from Nashville, Tennessee’s world-famous Broadway — where rhinestones, cowboy boots, and bright lights take center stage — this neighborhood is struggling with drug abuse, gang activity, and a surging rate of gun violence.
Stephen*, age 11, Malik, age 10, and Jordan, age 10, are all from this neighborhood, known as Napier Community. All three live with a fear of bullets flying into their home, or family members not returning from a simple walk to the corner store.
Children living in this community are not only under the daily pressures that come with school and growing up in general, but they’re also under the pressures that come with living around violence.
“This boy was in a gang and he was messing with my brother,” Jordan says, “so he got a pistol and shot our apartment.”
Sitting together, the three boys discuss the most recent hardships of their neighborhood as easily as some kids discuss sports and video games.
“My sister isn’t allowed out of the house,” Stephen says, matter-of-factly. Why? Chances are that she will become a victim of gender-based violence. The other boys nod in agreement.
“It’s nasty stuff,” Jordan says. “That’s why my mom always keeps my sister in the house. She lets us go outside, but she only lets my sister out if she’s with us, so if someone tries to get my sister we can defend her.”
Ducking at any loud noise that sounds like gunfire, moving from home to home due to poverty, and sisters not being allowed out of the house due to fear of attacks are all part of daily life for these boys.
J.C. Napier Homes is a governmental housing project that sits in a district with Nashville’s highest violent crime rate and one of the highest rates of poverty in the city. The vast majority of homes here are headed by single mothers, and the average annual income is about $9,500, compared with the city’s median household income of $53,400.
“It’s not the worst place to live,” Stephen says, thoughtfully considering his neighborhood, “It’s kind of good and kind of bad. It’s bad because most of the time people are doing negative and violent stuff, and the good side is that people have homes and they have food to eat and a place to live.”
It’s here that CrossBRIDGE, a Nazarene Compassionate Ministry Center connected with Trevecca Community Church, has created KidPOWER and YouthPOWER — comprehensive after-school programs to address the chronic effects of generational poverty.
Whole life involvement
After a short ride, the boys climb off the bus and rush toward a squat building shining in the afternoon sun. Once inside, all offer helping hands as leaders begin serving snacks.
KidPOWER, which is for students in grades 1 through 4, meets every day after school, and YouthPOWER, which is for students in grades 5 through 8, meets Wednesday and Sunday afternoons. Both programs seek to give children and youth a place where they can focus on their personal growth. This growth takes place within a safe space and in relationship with caring adult mentors, but it begins by considering students’ current context.
Anna Byrne, a mentor at YouthPOWER, explains that when students become emotional or out of control, she might suggest they calm down by drawing a picture that represents their week.
“I’d get pictures back of guns, pictures of shootings, pictures of them laying in their bed crying at night,” she says.
YouthPOWER is adapting to needs. The program focused on younger children started in 2010 with only second graders and has grown a grade level each year since; in 2013 when the children finished fourth grade, YouthPOWER was developed to make room for older children.
“We used to be in KidPOWER,” Jordan explains proudly, “But now we’re in YouthPOWER. It’s like the older version of KidPOWER.”
Hayley Shaddix, director of KidPOWER, explains that the acronym POWER stands for purity, others, wellness, excellence in academics, and reconciliation. The programs focus on healthy lifestyle choices, schoolwork support, service, and healthy relationships. YouthPOWER takes these concepts to a deeper level. A student who may have learned about peaceful conflict resolution in KidPOWER is then equipped to apply it to everyday life through YouthPOWER.
“Most of these kids have multiple adverse childhood affects [or trauma],” Byrne says.
That means the first step isn’t necessarily helping with math or reading homework. In order to accomplish academic success, students first need to learn tools such as coping with emotions or persevering through failure or disappointment.
Shaddix shares one example: When Jordan first came to the program, he had very limited skills in dealing with his emotions. He would often shut down and shut others out until the suppressed feelings would erupt into anger. Now, Jordan is using the tools he has learned to handle his emotions differently by using words to express his anger or frustration.
KidPOWER and YouthPOWER were both created by Tina Mitchell, executive director of CrossBRIDGE. The programs both seek to help children within the community realize their full potential and make the most of their futures. They teach children and youth that generational poverty and current circumstances do not have to determine the trajectory of their futures or affect God’s plan for their lives.
“We’re really trying to be involved in the whole life of the child,” Shaddix explains.
These programs work to teach the children how to make healthy decisions in all areas of life, from what they choose to eat and caring for others to working hard in school and choosing reconciliation over violence. The program is working to help students see different lifestyle options than the ones they have grown up around and guide them to make decisions that will help them as they mature.
In a community where 87 percent of students don’t meet grade-level reading expectations, 77 percent of students are failing to meet grade-level expectations in math, and 23 percent of students miss more than 18 school days each year, YouthPOWER is working hard to help students from the neighborhood change these statistics. Program participants take part in one-on-one academic tutoring as well as engage in group academic goals and individual academic goals.
“YouthPOWER helped me with reading,” Malik says, sitting up straighter in his beanbag chair. “I graduated my reading level, and now I’m on a higher grade with my reading level.”
Last year the boys worked hard to complete different levels of math assignments and had an ice cream party to celebrate their achievements at the end of the year. Each assignment was worth different toppings, and if students finished all of the assignments, they got to pile their ice cream high with bananas, hot fudge, whipped cream, and more.
“We did multiplication worksheets, and at the end of the year we got ice cream,” says Stephen happily reminiscing about the celebration with his friends. “I got a banana on mine.”
One on one
Mentor Anna Byrne (center) says mentoring starts with understanding a student’s current reality.
Through each activity, students are also taught the importance of dependable, healthy relationships. One way the leaders encourage this is by assigning each child a mentor. These mentors volunteer their time to help the children with their homework and different academic goals. They also take this relationship past an academic realm and get to know the children personally, talking with them about their lives, helping them with service projects, and encouraging them to develop strong character traits.
In everything, mentors and leaders at YouthPOWER aim to show youth the love of God through their own actions and words. They believe that being a part of the community and a part of students’ lives is an opportunity to reveal God’s light even in difficult circumstances.
“For us it’s about building that foundation of relationships and showing the love of Christ,” says Zac Shaddix, director of YouthPOWER.
For youth like Stephen, YouthPOWER has been a door into a church community as well. He not only attends the after-school program, but he also attends the youth events at Trevecca Community Church.
“Sometimes we learn about Bible stories,” Stephen says with a wide smile. “My favorite is the first one; that’s when God created the earth.”
Through their time together, students, mentors, and leaders alike have the opportunity to create relationships based on trust, dependability, and faith. Trae Smith, who started out as a mentor and is now a full-time staff member, explains how students come into the program withdrawn and reserved, and how it takes time and hard work to gain their trust. Smith spent an entire semester telling one youth every day at bus drop-off that he was loved, but the child never responded. Then the last day of the semester, the student came running back before the bus pulled away to tell Smith, “I love you, too.”
Smith emphasizes that mentoring is not just a one-way relationship.
“The thing that gets me the most is seeing the transformation. I’ve been here four years, and I’ve watched kids change and grow — and I’ve watched all the change in my life,” he says, tears glistening in his eyes, “It would be a struggle to see my life without being here.”
When asked what he considers the best part of mentoring, Smith answers, “Seeing kids and mentors come out of their shells.” As proof, he pulls out his cell phone to show a photo of a boy with his arms wrapped around a mentor’s neck.
“The students sometimes have a hard time expressing emotions, but that student leapt into his mentor’s arms at our end-of-the-year bash,” he says.
The mentoring programs is working to help youth who are at risk change their futures by showing them new possibilities and equipping them with the tools they need to thrive. In many ways, mentors serve as mirrors that reveal what already exists. As mentors walk alongside them, youth begin to see the things they need to work on, but they also begin to see the gifts and abilities they already possess.
“Students recognize they are each beautifully unique and become more confident in who they are,” Hayley Shaddix says. “Stephen is an awesome example of this. He’s come to recognize he has an ability to make others laugh and bring so much joy to those around him.”
Change happens
The bus comes to a stop outside the J.C. Napier Homes, and the three boys step out. The sun is just setting as children are chasing half-inflated basketballs, groups of adults walk together in quiet conversation, and women hang out their laundry. As they rush off, Stephen, Malik, and Jordan turn to wave, their smiling faces full of hope.
They know the fears and struggles of life in their neighborhood, but they also know that their dreams can be reached, life can be changed, and hard work can pay off.
“We love our kids, and we believe in them, and I think whenever the kids start to see that they are loved and are worthy of love and are valued ... a change really happens,” Hayley Shaddix says. “Our biggest transformation is when kids start to believe in themselves.”
*Children’s names have all been changed for their protection.[Republished with permission from the Winter 2016 edition of NCM Magazine]Read more
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Africa
Flags of the Nations: Ethiopia
The Ethiopian flag was adopted on February 6, 1996. The red stripe represents power, faith, and blood; the yellow church, peace, natural wealth, and love; and the green land and hope. The star represents unity of the people that compose the nation, the five rays around it symbolize prosperity, and the blue circle represents peace.
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: EthiopiaThe Church of the Nazarene officially entered Ethiopia in 1992.
Ethiopia had a population of 99,465,819 in 2015. That same year, Ethiopia reported 903 Churches of the Nazarene, 383 of which had been officially organized. Ethiopia has 48,630 total members.
Located on the Africa Region, Ethiopia has four Phase 2 districts, five Phase 1 districts, and four pioneer areas. For more information about the Africa Region, visit africanazarene.org.
* = The weekly highlighted flag is raised on the middle of three poles in compliance with U.S. government protocols. It flies to the left of the GMC host-nation United States flag, which flies above the host-state flag of Kansas. The Christian flag flies on the third pole.
The Global Ministry Center is the mission and service hub of the Church of the Nazarene.Read more
Asia-Pacific
Nuku'alofa, Tonga
Rolling toward hope: Wheelchair ministry in Tonga changes lives
One hundred fifteen wheelchairs recently rolled off a ship at the Island of Tonga, changing lives for disabled people across the island thanks to a partnership between numerous groups initiated by a Nazarene mission leader in Alabama, USA.
Fred Faith, former president of Nazarene Missions International (NMI) for the Alabama North District, visited Tonga to help layman Donald Hunter in building a missionary house there. During the trip, he met with Nazarene missionaries In-kwon Kim and his wife, Jeong-Seok Kim, directors of The Mango Tree Centre, which provides rehabilitative therapy, vocational and social training, and spiritual formation to help not only the disabled but their families in Tonga.
In many South Pacific Island cultures, disabilities are traditionally viewed as punishment from God. Additionally, because of rampant diabetes, many have lost their legs.
Founded in 2005 after more than 11 years of service to the disabled of Tonga by retired Nazarene missionaries Duncan “Doc” and Charmayne Old, today The Mango Tree Centre brings together physical therapists, doctors, and other workers to serve the precious people who have been pushed to the fringes of society and burdened with undeserved shame.Rolling toward hope: Wheelchair ministry in Tonga changes lives by Carol Anne Eby
One-hundred and 15 wheelchairs recently rolled off a ship at the Island of Tonga, changing lives for disabled people across the island, thanks to a partnership between numerous groups initiated by a Nazarene mission leader in Alabama, U.S.
Fred Faith, former president of Nazarene Missions International (NMI) for the Alabama North District, visited Tonga to help layman Donald Hunter in building a missionary house there. During the trip he met with Nazarene missionaries In-kwon Kim and his wife Jeong-Seok Kim, directors of The Mango Tree Centre, which provides rehabilitative therapy, vocational and social training, and spiritual formation to help not only the disabled but their families in Tonga.
Out the bus window, a sea of identical brick buildings, children running around, and used furniture scattered on lawns begins to fade from sight.
It’s hard to imagine that just over two miles away from Nashville, Tennessee’s world-famous Broadway — where rhinestones, cowboy boots, and bright lights take center stage — this neighborhood is struggling with drug abuse, gang activity, and a surging rate of gun violence.
Stephen*, age 11, Malik, age 10, and Jordan, age 10, are all from this neighborhood, known as Napier Community. All three live with a fear of bullets flying into their home, or family members not returning from a simple walk to the corner store.
Children living in this community are not only under the daily pressures that come with school and growing up in general, but they’re also under the pressures that come with living around violence.
“This boy was in a gang and he was messing with my brother,” Jordan says, “so he got a pistol and shot our apartment.”
Sitting together, the three boys discuss the most recent hardships of their neighborhood as easily as some kids discuss sports and video games.
“My sister isn’t allowed out of the house,” Stephen says, matter-of-factly. Why? Chances are that she will become a victim of gender-based violence. The other boys nod in agreement.
“It’s nasty stuff,” Jordan says. “That’s why my mom always keeps my sister in the house. She lets us go outside, but she only lets my sister out if she’s with us, so if someone tries to get my sister we can defend her.”
Ducking at any loud noise that sounds like gunfire, moving from home to home due to poverty, and sisters not being allowed out of the house due to fear of attacks are all part of daily life for these boys.
J.C. Napier Homes is a governmental housing project that sits in a district with Nashville’s highest violent crime rate and one of the highest rates of poverty in the city. The vast majority of homes here are headed by single mothers, and the average annual income is about $9,500, compared with the city’s median household income of $53,400.
“It’s not the worst place to live,” Stephen says, thoughtfully considering his neighborhood, “It’s kind of good and kind of bad. It’s bad because most of the time people are doing negative and violent stuff, and the good side is that people have homes and they have food to eat and a place to live.”
It’s here that CrossBRIDGE, a Nazarene Compassionate Ministry Center connected with Trevecca Community Church, has created KidPOWER and YouthPOWER — comprehensive after-school programs to address the chronic effects of generational poverty.
Whole life involvement
After a short ride, the boys climb off the bus and rush toward a squat building shining in the afternoon sun. Once inside, all offer helping hands as leaders begin serving snacks.
KidPOWER, which is for students in grades 1 through 4, meets every day after school, and YouthPOWER, which is for students in grades 5 through 8, meets Wednesday and Sunday afternoons. Both programs seek to give children and youth a place where they can focus on their personal growth. This growth takes place within a safe space and in relationship with caring adult mentors, but it begins by considering students’ current context.
Anna Byrne, a mentor at YouthPOWER, explains that when students become emotional or out of control, she might suggest they calm down by drawing a picture that represents their week.
“I’d get pictures back of guns, pictures of shootings, pictures of them laying in their bed crying at night,” she says.
YouthPOWER is adapting to needs. The program focused on younger children started in 2010 with only second graders and has grown a grade level each year since; in 2013 when the children finished fourth grade, YouthPOWER was developed to make room for older children.
“We used to be in KidPOWER,” Jordan explains proudly, “But now we’re in YouthPOWER. It’s like the older version of KidPOWER.”
Hayley Shaddix, director of KidPOWER, explains that the acronym POWER stands for purity, others, wellness, excellence in academics, and reconciliation. The programs focus on healthy lifestyle choices, schoolwork support, service, and healthy relationships. YouthPOWER takes these concepts to a deeper level. A student who may have learned about peaceful conflict resolution in KidPOWER is then equipped to apply it to everyday life through YouthPOWER.
“Most of these kids have multiple adverse childhood affects [or trauma],” Byrne says.
That means the first step isn’t necessarily helping with math or reading homework. In order to accomplish academic success, students first need to learn tools such as coping with emotions or persevering through failure or disappointment.
Shaddix shares one example: When Jordan first came to the program, he had very limited skills in dealing with his emotions. He would often shut down and shut others out until the suppressed feelings would erupt into anger. Now, Jordan is using the tools he has learned to handle his emotions differently by using words to express his anger or frustration.
KidPOWER and YouthPOWER were both created by Tina Mitchell, executive director of CrossBRIDGE. The programs both seek to help children within the community realize their full potential and make the most of their futures. They teach children and youth that generational poverty and current circumstances do not have to determine the trajectory of their futures or affect God’s plan for their lives.
“We’re really trying to be involved in the whole life of the child,” Shaddix explains.
These programs work to teach the children how to make healthy decisions in all areas of life, from what they choose to eat and caring for others to working hard in school and choosing reconciliation over violence. The program is working to help students see different lifestyle options than the ones they have grown up around and guide them to make decisions that will help them as they mature.
In a community where 87 percent of students don’t meet grade-level reading expectations, 77 percent of students are failing to meet grade-level expectations in math, and 23 percent of students miss more than 18 school days each year, YouthPOWER is working hard to help students from the neighborhood change these statistics. Program participants take part in one-on-one academic tutoring as well as engage in group academic goals and individual academic goals.
“YouthPOWER helped me with reading,” Malik says, sitting up straighter in his beanbag chair. “I graduated my reading level, and now I’m on a higher grade with my reading level.”
Last year the boys worked hard to complete different levels of math assignments and had an ice cream party to celebrate their achievements at the end of the year. Each assignment was worth different toppings, and if students finished all of the assignments, they got to pile their ice cream high with bananas, hot fudge, whipped cream, and more.
“We did multiplication worksheets, and at the end of the year we got ice cream,” says Stephen happily reminiscing about the celebration with his friends. “I got a banana on mine.”
One on one
Mentor Anna Byrne (center) says mentoring starts with understanding a student’s current reality.
Through each activity, students are also taught the importance of dependable, healthy relationships. One way the leaders encourage this is by assigning each child a mentor. These mentors volunteer their time to help the children with their homework and different academic goals. They also take this relationship past an academic realm and get to know the children personally, talking with them about their lives, helping them with service projects, and encouraging them to develop strong character traits.
In everything, mentors and leaders at YouthPOWER aim to show youth the love of God through their own actions and words. They believe that being a part of the community and a part of students’ lives is an opportunity to reveal God’s light even in difficult circumstances.
“For us it’s about building that foundation of relationships and showing the love of Christ,” says Zac Shaddix, director of YouthPOWER.
For youth like Stephen, YouthPOWER has been a door into a church community as well. He not only attends the after-school program, but he also attends the youth events at Trevecca Community Church.
“Sometimes we learn about Bible stories,” Stephen says with a wide smile. “My favorite is the first one; that’s when God created the earth.”
Through their time together, students, mentors, and leaders alike have the opportunity to create relationships based on trust, dependability, and faith. Trae Smith, who started out as a mentor and is now a full-time staff member, explains how students come into the program withdrawn and reserved, and how it takes time and hard work to gain their trust. Smith spent an entire semester telling one youth every day at bus drop-off that he was loved, but the child never responded. Then the last day of the semester, the student came running back before the bus pulled away to tell Smith, “I love you, too.”
Smith emphasizes that mentoring is not just a one-way relationship.
“The thing that gets me the most is seeing the transformation. I’ve been here four years, and I’ve watched kids change and grow — and I’ve watched all the change in my life,” he says, tears glistening in his eyes, “It would be a struggle to see my life without being here.”
When asked what he considers the best part of mentoring, Smith answers, “Seeing kids and mentors come out of their shells.” As proof, he pulls out his cell phone to show a photo of a boy with his arms wrapped around a mentor’s neck.
“The students sometimes have a hard time expressing emotions, but that student leapt into his mentor’s arms at our end-of-the-year bash,” he says.
The mentoring programs is working to help youth who are at risk change their futures by showing them new possibilities and equipping them with the tools they need to thrive. In many ways, mentors serve as mirrors that reveal what already exists. As mentors walk alongside them, youth begin to see the things they need to work on, but they also begin to see the gifts and abilities they already possess.
“Students recognize they are each beautifully unique and become more confident in who they are,” Hayley Shaddix says. “Stephen is an awesome example of this. He’s come to recognize he has an ability to make others laugh and bring so much joy to those around him.”
Change happens
The bus comes to a stop outside the J.C. Napier Homes, and the three boys step out. The sun is just setting as children are chasing half-inflated basketballs, groups of adults walk together in quiet conversation, and women hang out their laundry. As they rush off, Stephen, Malik, and Jordan turn to wave, their smiling faces full of hope.
They know the fears and struggles of life in their neighborhood, but they also know that their dreams can be reached, life can be changed, and hard work can pay off.
“We love our kids, and we believe in them, and I think whenever the kids start to see that they are loved and are worthy of love and are valued ... a change really happens,” Hayley Shaddix says. “Our biggest transformation is when kids start to believe in themselves.”
*Children’s names have all been changed for their protection.[Republished with permission from the Winter 2016 edition of NCM Magazine]Read more
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Africa
Flags of the Nations: Ethiopia
The Ethiopian flag was adopted on February 6, 1996. The red stripe represents power, faith, and blood; the yellow church, peace, natural wealth, and love; and the green land and hope. The star represents unity of the people that compose the nation, the five rays around it symbolize prosperity, and the blue circle represents peace.
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: EthiopiaThe Church of the Nazarene officially entered Ethiopia in 1992.
Ethiopia had a population of 99,465,819 in 2015. That same year, Ethiopia reported 903 Churches of the Nazarene, 383 of which had been officially organized. Ethiopia has 48,630 total members.
Located on the Africa Region, Ethiopia has four Phase 2 districts, five Phase 1 districts, and four pioneer areas. For more information about the Africa Region, visit africanazarene.org.
* = The weekly highlighted flag is raised on the middle of three poles in compliance with U.S. government protocols. It flies to the left of the GMC host-nation United States flag, which flies above the host-state flag of Kansas. The Christian flag flies on the third pole.
The Global Ministry Center is the mission and service hub of the Church of the Nazarene.Read more
Asia-Pacific
Nuku'alofa, Tonga
Rolling toward hope: Wheelchair ministry in Tonga changes lives
One hundred fifteen wheelchairs recently rolled off a ship at the Island of Tonga, changing lives for disabled people across the island thanks to a partnership between numerous groups initiated by a Nazarene mission leader in Alabama, USA.
Fred Faith, former president of Nazarene Missions International (NMI) for the Alabama North District, visited Tonga to help layman Donald Hunter in building a missionary house there. During the trip, he met with Nazarene missionaries In-kwon Kim and his wife, Jeong-Seok Kim, directors of The Mango Tree Centre, which provides rehabilitative therapy, vocational and social training, and spiritual formation to help not only the disabled but their families in Tonga.
In many South Pacific Island cultures, disabilities are traditionally viewed as punishment from God. Additionally, because of rampant diabetes, many have lost their legs.
Founded in 2005 after more than 11 years of service to the disabled of Tonga by retired Nazarene missionaries Duncan “Doc” and Charmayne Old, today The Mango Tree Centre brings together physical therapists, doctors, and other workers to serve the precious people who have been pushed to the fringes of society and burdened with undeserved shame.Rolling toward hope: Wheelchair ministry in Tonga changes lives by Carol Anne Eby
One-hundred and 15 wheelchairs recently rolled off a ship at the Island of Tonga, changing lives for disabled people across the island, thanks to a partnership between numerous groups initiated by a Nazarene mission leader in Alabama, U.S.
Fred Faith, former president of Nazarene Missions International (NMI) for the Alabama North District, visited Tonga to help layman Donald Hunter in building a missionary house there. During the trip he met with Nazarene missionaries In-kwon Kim and his wife Jeong-Seok Kim, directors of The Mango Tree Centre, which provides rehabilitative therapy, vocational and social training, and spiritual formation to help not only the disabled but their families in Tonga.
In many South Pacific Island cultures, disabilities are traditionally viewed as punishment from God. Additionally because of rampant diabetes, many have lost their legs. Founded in 2005 after more than 11 years of service to the disabled of Tonga by retired Nazarene missionaries Duncan “Doc” and Charmayne Old, today The Mango Tree Centre brings together physical therapists, doctors and other workers to serve the precious people who have been pushed to the fringes of society and burdened with undeserved shame. The Kims became directors in 2007.
“The ministry touched me [deeply] and the Kims’ dedication to serve these people challenged me to do more,” Faith said.
Rev. Kim told Faith about the need for more wheelchairs for disabled people on the island, and Fred returned home to share the need with current district NMI president Casey Faulkner and her leadership team. They began praying.
Faith and Rev. Kim started communicating with Joni and Friends, the Christian ministry of Joni Eareckson Tada, a quadriplegic who is an international advocate for people with disabilities. Once the organization received the application and saw the need, they were happy to partner with the Church of the Nazarene Mango Tree Center. The chairs were used but refurbished like new through an educational program at the Stafford Correction Center in Aberdeen, Washington.
“The inmates were very helpful and thankful to be a part of helping others,” said Faith.
The chairs were each packaged with a Bible. So raising the funds required to ship them became a top priority. The district wanted to raise funds to keep Hunter in Tonga to complete the construction of the missionary home, as well as raise funds to ship the chairs. God provided in various ways. While Hunter was building in Tonga, volunteers were also remodeling a home for a disabled child locally. The Alabama North District Assembly received offerings, and a corporate friend of Fred’s matched the offering received. There was enough to complete both projects and some to add to the shipping fund.
Alabama children also contributed by selling candy and holding other fundraisers to ship the chairs. The port for shipping the chairs was only 20 miles from the Stafford Correctional facility. Additionally, when the shipping company learned what the shipment was for and who it would help, they sent Faith a check for $250 to help.
When the shipment of 115 chairs arrived in Tonga, the Kims donated 50 of them for adult patients at the Vaiola Hospital, relieving a shortage there. They will continue distributing the wheelchairs to those in need throughout the year, with a portion given to people during the Special Wheelchair week in 2017.
“I believe that whenever wheelchairs are given to the disabled, the love of Jesus is shown and the Good News is spread,” Rev. Kim said.
Maneo and Misa are living testimonies of this. Maneo lost both his legs a tragic factory accident. He did not lose hope though, and from his wheelchair he began taking computer classes at the Centre. He is now employed at one of the leading network providers in Tonga and is a man of faith.
Misa, a pastor, came to the Centre only a few days ago and requested a chair for an elderly man she was caring for who was homeless and couldn’t walk. She submitted a photo, and by measuring the man’s body size through the photo, they were able to send him a chair. Misa cried tears of joy. Pastor Kim said this was made possible thanks to the donations from Wheels for the World, the fundraising from children in Alabama and the Church of the Nazarene in America. All of this was possible because Jesus tells us to love one another.
“The ministry touched me [deeply] and the Kims’ dedication to serve these people challenged me to do more,” Faith said.
Rev. Kim told Faith about the need for more wheelchairs for disabled people on the island, and Fred returned home to share the need with current district NMI president Casey Faulkner and her leadership team. They began praying.
Faith and Rev. Kim started communicating with Joni and Friends, the Christian ministry of Joni Eareckson Tada, a quadriplegic who is an international advocate for people with disabilities. Once the organization received the application and saw the need, they were happy to partner with the Church of the Nazarene Mango Tree Center. The chairs were used but refurbished like new through an educational program at the Stafford Correction Center in Aberdeen, Washington.
“The inmates were very helpful and thankful to be a part of helping others,” said Faith.
The chairs were each packaged with a Bible. So raising the funds required to ship them became a top priority. The district wanted to raise funds to keep Hunter in Tonga to complete the construction of the missionary home, as well as raise funds to ship the chairs. God provided in various ways. While Hunter was building in Tonga, volunteers were also remodeling a home for a disabled child locally. The Alabama North District Assembly received offerings, and a corporate friend of Fred’s matched the offering received. There was enough to complete both projects and some to add to the shipping fund.
Alabama children also contributed by selling candy and holding other fundraisers to ship the chairs. The port for shipping the chairs was only 20 miles from the Stafford Correctional facility. Additionally, when the shipping company learned what the shipment was for and who it would help, they sent Faith a check for $250 to help.
When the shipment of 115 chairs arrived in Tonga, the Kims donated 50 of them for adult patients at the Vaiola Hospital, relieving a shortage there. They will continue distributing the wheelchairs to those in need throughout the year, with a portion given to people during the Special Wheelchair week in 2017.
“I believe that whenever wheelchairs are given to the disabled, the love of Jesus is shown and the Good News is spread,” Rev. Kim said.
Maneo and Misa are living testimonies of this. Maneo lost both his legs a tragic factory accident. He did not lose hope though, and from his wheelchair he began taking computer classes at the Centre. He is now employed at one of the leading network providers in Tonga and is a man of faith.
Misa, a pastor, came to the Centre only a few days ago and requested a chair for an elderly man she was caring for who was homeless and couldn’t walk. She submitted a photo, and by measuring the man’s body size through the photo, they were able to send him a chair. Misa cried tears of joy. Pastor Kim said this was made possible thanks to the donations from Wheels for the World, the fundraising from children in Alabama and the Church of the Nazarene in America. All of this was possible because Jesus tells us to love one another.
So many pieces came together for God’s plan of hope to go rolling on. SangAmDong Church in Korea sent a team to build a wheelchair workshop building. An anonymous Nazarene from the region donated funds to purchase a wheelchair van.
Specialists have come from New Zealand and Australia to help fit people to their chairs. The Korean government provided support to construct a building for teaching Braille classes. The Japanese government also made it possible to construct a therapy building.
Ongoing needs include additional physical therapists to join the staff, and sufficient, ongoing financial support. And, of course, prayer that God will enable Mango Tree Centre to continue to serve those who are living in darkness and bring them to the light of hope.
For the rest of the story, see Engage magazine. Read more
South America
Pilar, Argentina
Southern Cone NTS celebrates graduation
Southern Cone Nazarene Theological Seminary held a graduation ceremony for students from many districts on the South America Region's Southern Cone Field November 5.
A total of 20 students graduated from several programs: Diploma in Theology, Basic Studies in Theology, Diploma in Advanced Studies in the Growth of the Church, and Bachelor’s Degree in Theology. The ceremony was held in the Dr. Bruno Radi Convention Center located at the seminary.
The keynote speaker for the event was Argentina Central District Superintendent Marcelo Correa, who brought a message from the Word of God that challenged attendees. Many Church of the Nazarene leaders, including Southern Cone Field Strategy Coordinator Juan Jose Zani, Southern Cone Nazarene Theological Seminary President Jorge Julca, and district superintendents were also present.
"We thank God for another promotion of graduates in the Southern Cone Field and are content that there are brothers and sisters who have been called by God into ministry and who have now completed an important step in their ministerial training," said Eduardo Velazquez, Southern Cone NTS academic dean.[Church of the Nazarene South America Region]Read more
USA/Canada
Butler, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh district superintendent resigns
J. Bret Metcalfe, superintendent of the Pittsburgh District, resigned his position this week to return to pastoral ministry.
Elected district superintendent July 24, 2010, at the 103rd Pittsburgh District Assembly, Metcalfe has served on the Pittsburgh District since 1996 when he began pastoring the Greenville, Pennsylvania, Lifeway Church of the Nazarene. He previously served as district secretary for more than 11 years and also served on the Pittsburgh District Advisory Board, as well as on other boards and committees.
"The Church of the Nazarene is deeply grateful for the anointed leadership that Bret and Terri Metcalfe have given to the Pittsburgh District," said Bob Broadbooks, USA/Canada regional director. "For six years they have given themselves to advance compassionate holiness ministry among the people of the district. We rejoice with the Metcalfes as they enter this exciting new ministry."
Metcalfe sent the following email to district pastors on Wednesday:
Lenexa, Kansas
(Note: If you clicked on the e-news expecting the Al Jagger article, click here.)
GuideStone reduces number of participants required for group health care
GuideStone Financial Resources has reduced the minimum number of participants required for church involvement in their group health care plans to two, according to Stephanie King, manager of insurance sales and retention for GuideStone.
Until recently, the required number of participants for a group was 10.
“We dropped our minimum in group plans from 10 to 2 because of the tax implications for individuals and issues with getting coverage through the ACA (Affordable Care Act),” King said.
Participants must be full-time employees.
The Church of the Nazarene partnered with GuideStone following the passage of the ACA to offer churches access to the group health insurance programs offered by the organization. GuideStone is the benefit board serving Southern Baptist and select evangelical ministries.
Churches in the market for health care insurance may learn more about ACA requirements, eligibility, and even receive quotes by visiting this link.
“We count it a privilege to serve churches and ministry organizations like the Church of the Nazarene,” King added. “We are here to answer any questions they may have.”[Pensions and Benefits USA]Read more
Eugene, Oregon
Al Jagger: A life spent campaigning for Christ
Al and Elva Jagger
At an age when most people retire and begin slowing down, Al Jagger sped up.
Jagger, the oldest JESUS Film Harvest Partners supporter, passed away October 23 at age 98. He was a longtime member of Eugene First Church of the Nazarene.
After becoming distressed at the commercialization of Christmas, he thought of a way to remind others of Jesus’ birthday through a simple yard sign proclaiming “CHRISTMAS—Jesus—Celebrate His Birth.” More than 70,000 signs have been sold in the 12 years since Jagger began campaigning for Christ. They have been spotted across the world, in all 50 states, all the way to India, Africa, and Australia.
In the 2013 JESUS Film Harvest Partners Winter Newsletter, Jagger said, “I don’t have a lot of years left on this planet, so I want to do all I can to help people come to know Jesus.”
Jagger proclaimed the message in a unique way this past Easter season. He rented short-term space on 12 billboards throughout the Eugene, Oregon, area and bought 100 banners that he resold at cost or gave to local churches to hang on their exterior walls. The billboards and banners all declared “The Greatest Event Ever! Jesus Raised from the Dead, Preparing a Place for You!”
In an article last March, Jagger told the Eugene Register Guard, “As soon as this (billboard) job is over, I’m ready to go.”
Jagger also said he wanted to continue to help people come to know Jesus after he left to be with Him. He set up his estate to sponsor a JESUS Film Team for 15 years beyond his lifetime.
“Because of his past and forward planning efforts ... people will personally know Jesus as their Savior,” said Darrell Leber, JFHP director of partnership development.
Jagger even found ways to spread light through his hobbies.
“He loved making lamps on his wood lathe … he was always trying to shine a light somewhere,” Leber said.
Jagger said one of his passions was “being as effective as he possibly could” through giving. After hearing about a Partner Investment Trip to Guatemala, he immediately agreed to sponsor a JESUS Film equipment set and motorcycle for a team. At age 96, he hosted a World Challenge fundraising event where 140 people attended.
Jagger’s mission to spread the Good News of Christ will live on as many people will adorn their lawns with “Jesus” signs later this month.
Eugene resident Shirley Becker decked her lawn with a “Jesus” sign for many years. She placed it by the street next to a manger scene with hay.
“It’s a wonderful thing to see because the signs saturate the neighborhoods with the real meaning of Christmas,” Becker said.
Jagger impacted many, both in his community and far away.
“I’d like to think there was a big yard sign just outside the pearly gates with the message 'Welcome Home, Al,'" said John Cunningham, JFHP national ambassador coordinator. "Al would be grinning all the way through the gates.”
JFHP is a Kingdom-building ministry devoted to world evangelism through the JESUS Film and other tools used by teams of local people for evangelism, discipleship, and church planting.[Jesus Film Harvest Partners]
Specialists have come from New Zealand and Australia to help fit people to their chairs. The Korean government provided support to construct a building for teaching Braille classes. The Japanese government also made it possible to construct a therapy building.
Ongoing needs include additional physical therapists to join the staff, and sufficient, ongoing financial support. And, of course, prayer that God will enable Mango Tree Centre to continue to serve those who are living in darkness and bring them to the light of hope.
For the rest of the story, see Engage magazine. Read more
South America
Pilar, Argentina
Southern Cone NTS celebrates graduation
Southern Cone Nazarene Theological Seminary held a graduation ceremony for students from many districts on the South America Region's Southern Cone Field November 5.
A total of 20 students graduated from several programs: Diploma in Theology, Basic Studies in Theology, Diploma in Advanced Studies in the Growth of the Church, and Bachelor’s Degree in Theology. The ceremony was held in the Dr. Bruno Radi Convention Center located at the seminary.
The keynote speaker for the event was Argentina Central District Superintendent Marcelo Correa, who brought a message from the Word of God that challenged attendees. Many Church of the Nazarene leaders, including Southern Cone Field Strategy Coordinator Juan Jose Zani, Southern Cone Nazarene Theological Seminary President Jorge Julca, and district superintendents were also present.
"We thank God for another promotion of graduates in the Southern Cone Field and are content that there are brothers and sisters who have been called by God into ministry and who have now completed an important step in their ministerial training," said Eduardo Velazquez, Southern Cone NTS academic dean.[Church of the Nazarene South America Region]Read more
USA/Canada
Butler, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh district superintendent resigns
J. Bret Metcalfe, superintendent of the Pittsburgh District, resigned his position this week to return to pastoral ministry.
Elected district superintendent July 24, 2010, at the 103rd Pittsburgh District Assembly, Metcalfe has served on the Pittsburgh District since 1996 when he began pastoring the Greenville, Pennsylvania, Lifeway Church of the Nazarene. He previously served as district secretary for more than 11 years and also served on the Pittsburgh District Advisory Board, as well as on other boards and committees.
"The Church of the Nazarene is deeply grateful for the anointed leadership that Bret and Terri Metcalfe have given to the Pittsburgh District," said Bob Broadbooks, USA/Canada regional director. "For six years they have given themselves to advance compassionate holiness ministry among the people of the district. We rejoice with the Metcalfes as they enter this exciting new ministry."
Metcalfe sent the following email to district pastors on Wednesday:
Last night I resigned as district superintendent of the Pittsburgh District. This came after much prayer and seeking the will of the Lord. It is time for someone else to come in and continue the movement that the Lord has started. It has been a pleasure to serve with each of you and I will continue to pray that the Lord will use you in mighty and effective ways for His kingdom. My last official day will be Dec. 8 and we will be around for a couple extra weeks preparing to make the move. We have sensed it was time to return to pastoral ministry and have accepted the call to pastor a church. Please pray for us as we make this transition.
Prayer is requested for the Metcalfe family and Pittsburgh District in this time of transition.Read moreLenexa, Kansas
(Note: If you clicked on the e-news expecting the Al Jagger article, click here.)
GuideStone reduces number of participants required for group health care
GuideStone Financial Resources has reduced the minimum number of participants required for church involvement in their group health care plans to two, according to Stephanie King, manager of insurance sales and retention for GuideStone.
Until recently, the required number of participants for a group was 10.
“We dropped our minimum in group plans from 10 to 2 because of the tax implications for individuals and issues with getting coverage through the ACA (Affordable Care Act),” King said.
Participants must be full-time employees.
The Church of the Nazarene partnered with GuideStone following the passage of the ACA to offer churches access to the group health insurance programs offered by the organization. GuideStone is the benefit board serving Southern Baptist and select evangelical ministries.
Churches in the market for health care insurance may learn more about ACA requirements, eligibility, and even receive quotes by visiting this link.
“We count it a privilege to serve churches and ministry organizations like the Church of the Nazarene,” King added. “We are here to answer any questions they may have.”[Pensions and Benefits USA]Read more
Eugene, Oregon
Al Jagger: A life spent campaigning for Christ
Al and Elva Jagger
At an age when most people retire and begin slowing down, Al Jagger sped up.
Jagger, the oldest JESUS Film Harvest Partners supporter, passed away October 23 at age 98. He was a longtime member of Eugene First Church of the Nazarene.
After becoming distressed at the commercialization of Christmas, he thought of a way to remind others of Jesus’ birthday through a simple yard sign proclaiming “CHRISTMAS—Jesus—Celebrate His Birth.” More than 70,000 signs have been sold in the 12 years since Jagger began campaigning for Christ. They have been spotted across the world, in all 50 states, all the way to India, Africa, and Australia.
In the 2013 JESUS Film Harvest Partners Winter Newsletter, Jagger said, “I don’t have a lot of years left on this planet, so I want to do all I can to help people come to know Jesus.”
Jagger proclaimed the message in a unique way this past Easter season. He rented short-term space on 12 billboards throughout the Eugene, Oregon, area and bought 100 banners that he resold at cost or gave to local churches to hang on their exterior walls. The billboards and banners all declared “The Greatest Event Ever! Jesus Raised from the Dead, Preparing a Place for You!”
In an article last March, Jagger told the Eugene Register Guard, “As soon as this (billboard) job is over, I’m ready to go.”
Jagger also said he wanted to continue to help people come to know Jesus after he left to be with Him. He set up his estate to sponsor a JESUS Film Team for 15 years beyond his lifetime.
“Because of his past and forward planning efforts ... people will personally know Jesus as their Savior,” said Darrell Leber, JFHP director of partnership development.
Jagger even found ways to spread light through his hobbies.
“He loved making lamps on his wood lathe … he was always trying to shine a light somewhere,” Leber said.
Jagger said one of his passions was “being as effective as he possibly could” through giving. After hearing about a Partner Investment Trip to Guatemala, he immediately agreed to sponsor a JESUS Film equipment set and motorcycle for a team. At age 96, he hosted a World Challenge fundraising event where 140 people attended.
Jagger’s mission to spread the Good News of Christ will live on as many people will adorn their lawns with “Jesus” signs later this month.
Eugene resident Shirley Becker decked her lawn with a “Jesus” sign for many years. She placed it by the street next to a manger scene with hay.
“It’s a wonderful thing to see because the signs saturate the neighborhoods with the real meaning of Christmas,” Becker said.
Jagger impacted many, both in his community and far away.
“I’d like to think there was a big yard sign just outside the pearly gates with the message 'Welcome Home, Al,'" said John Cunningham, JFHP national ambassador coordinator. "Al would be grinning all the way through the gates.”
JFHP is a Kingdom-building ministry devoted to world evangelism through the JESUS Film and other tools used by teams of local people for evangelism, discipleship, and church planting.[Jesus Film Harvest Partners]
(Note: If you clicked on the e-news expecting the Al Jagger article, click here.)
Read more
In Memoriam
The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received November 7-11, 2016.
Bill Buettner, 64, of Lake Worth, Florida, passed away November 7. He was a chaplain on the Southern Florida District and previously served as a pastor. He is survived by his wife, Marla Buettner.
Leslee Harmon, 62, of Redwood Falls, Minnesota, passed away November 10. She was the wife of minister Kenneth Harmon, who serves at Redwood Falls Church of the Nazarene.
Deborah (Kittner) Hively, 65, of Crossville, Tenessee, passed away October 29. She was the wife of retired minister Danny Hively, who served in Alabama and Tennessee.
Bill Jetton, 95, of Greenbrier, Arkansas, passed away November 6. He was a retired minister, serving in Arkansas, Mississippi, and Indiana. He is survived by his wife, Myrtle Jetton.
Weber McGarrah, 88, of Caldwell, Idaho, passed away November 4. He was a retired minister, serving in Washington, Utah, and Idaho. He was preceded in death by his wife, Anita McGarrah, in 2015.
Gerald Oetken, 79, of Pace, Florida, passed away October 24. He was a retired minister, serving in Mississippi, Florida, and Alabama. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Oetken.
David Williams, 65, of Olympia, Washington, passed away November 4. He was a minister, serving at Mountain View Church of the Nazarene. He is survived by his wife, Lois (Dodson) Williams.
For previous editions of In Memoriam, see the "Passings" section by clicking here.
Note: Please join us in prayer for the families who have lost loved ones. Click on names for full stories, funeral information, local online obituaries, and/or guest books (if available). To submit an entry of a minister or church leader, send to news@nazarene.org.[Compiled by NCN News]Read more
Human Resources
GMC employment opportunities
Also available: Español
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 jveigl@nazarene.org for details.
Employment Opportunities
Administrative Assistant (Full time)
General Superintendents’ OfficeDescription: This person provides editing and proofreading for the BGS Office, coordinates travel logistics and maintains itineraries for the BGS, and provides general administrative support.
Administrative Assistant (Full time)
Pensions & Benefits USADescription: This person will lead/manage special and cyclical projects, provide administrative assistance to the administrative director, coordinate education/training of internal staff and plan participants, ensure that appropriate resources and support are provided to complete projects, process customer services inquiries, and assist with monitoring and posting items to P&B USA social media outlets (Facebook/Twitter).
Benefits Technician (Full time)
Pensions and Benefits OfficeDescription: This person primarily assists the benefits supervisor with the processing/review of all benefit plans administered by Pensions and Benefits USA and Pensions and Benefits – International.
Communication Specialist (Full time)
Global Mission AdministrationDescription: This person provides insight and supports the work of the Global Mission administrative director; helps foster collaborative communication efforts between the regions and Global Mission team; advances the implementation and continuous improvement of the Global Mission communication strategy; collaborates on the improvement of existing and the creation of new initiatives, stories, and projects; and participates in and assist in the development of communication procedures and planning of meaningful gatherings for communicators.
Deputation/Home Assignment Coordinator (Full time)
Global Mission Personnel OfficeDescription: This person works directly with missionaries, creating and facilitating training to assure maximum effectiveness during home assignment. Other responsibilities include working with local and district church leaders in understanding and engaging missionaries while in their church(es), coordinating scheduling for deputation in churches and district events, and connecting local churches and districts with missionaries to encourage stewardship and relationship.
Human Resources Assistant (Full time)
Human ResourcesDescription: This person provides support by performing administrative duties to ensure the daily, efficient operations of the HR office. This person carries out responsibilities in assigned areas of employment, benefits, records, and employee relations, as well as assists the HR staff with implementation of services, policies, and programs.
Project Assistant (Part time, 30 hours per week)
Stewardship MinistriesDescription: This person works on a grant-funded project in the area of stewardship, assisting in all areas of development and administration of the project. The position is temporary and is expected to last for three years.
Receptionist (Full time)
Business CenterDescription: This position will provide quality service and hospitality to callers, guests, and offices of the Global Ministry Center. A majority of the time will be spent at the front desk communicating with various employees, constituents, and others via phone, email, and in person. The receptionist will be asked to serve in other roles within the Business Center as needed.
Technology Specialist (Full time)
Pensions & Benefits USADescription: This position will assist the technology supervisor in developing and maintaining the technology resources available to the Pensions and Benefits USA office and its constituents. This will include Web content management, development of systems for document storage and retrieval, assistance with upkeep of other business databases, resolution of basic desktop issues, and assistance with technology-related communication and training.
To obtain additional information, please call 913-577-0500 and ask for Human Resources.
Location of our PositionsThe 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 PolicyThe 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 OrganizationWe are a faith-based organization. Acceptance of our Christian Code of Conduct is required and membership in the Church of the Nazarene is required for certain positions. The GMC and applicable remote work sites are smoke-, alcohol-, and drug-free Christian workplaces.
Application ProcessingOur Human Resources Office receives and processes many employment applications annually for a limited number of positions. While we regret that we cannot respond to each applicant, we do contact those individuals possessing the skills, education/training, and experience that best match the requirements of the open position for which the application was submitted.
An application must be completed by all applicants and an application must be completed for each position for which one wishes to be considered. Applications are retained for one year. Resumés are not necessary for entry-level positions, but they are preferred for professional level positions.
Applying for Employment with the GMCApplication forms may be requested by calling 913-577-0500, emailing humanresourcesgroup@nazarene.org, or obtained in person from Human Resources at the Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center, 17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Lenexa, Kansas, 66220, Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 4:30 U.S. Central Time. Completed applications may be mailed or emailed to the attention of the Human Resources Office.
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Copyright © 2016 NCN News, All rights reserved.
The Global Church of the Nazarene Communications Network
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In Memoriam
The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received November 7-11, 2016.
Bill Buettner, 64, of Lake Worth, Florida, passed away November 7. He was a chaplain on the Southern Florida District and previously served as a pastor. He is survived by his wife, Marla Buettner.
Leslee Harmon, 62, of Redwood Falls, Minnesota, passed away November 10. She was the wife of minister Kenneth Harmon, who serves at Redwood Falls Church of the Nazarene.
Deborah (Kittner) Hively, 65, of Crossville, Tenessee, passed away October 29. She was the wife of retired minister Danny Hively, who served in Alabama and Tennessee.
Bill Jetton, 95, of Greenbrier, Arkansas, passed away November 6. He was a retired minister, serving in Arkansas, Mississippi, and Indiana. He is survived by his wife, Myrtle Jetton.
Weber McGarrah, 88, of Caldwell, Idaho, passed away November 4. He was a retired minister, serving in Washington, Utah, and Idaho. He was preceded in death by his wife, Anita McGarrah, in 2015.
Gerald Oetken, 79, of Pace, Florida, passed away October 24. He was a retired minister, serving in Mississippi, Florida, and Alabama. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Oetken.
David Williams, 65, of Olympia, Washington, passed away November 4. He was a minister, serving at Mountain View Church of the Nazarene. He is survived by his wife, Lois (Dodson) Williams.
For previous editions of In Memoriam, see the "Passings" section by clicking here.
Note: Please join us in prayer for the families who have lost loved ones. Click on names for full stories, funeral information, local online obituaries, and/or guest books (if available). To submit an entry of a minister or church leader, send to news@nazarene.org.[Compiled by NCN News]Read more
Human Resources
GMC employment opportunities
Also available: Español
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 jveigl@nazarene.org for details.
Employment Opportunities
Administrative Assistant (Full time)
General Superintendents’ OfficeDescription: This person provides editing and proofreading for the BGS Office, coordinates travel logistics and maintains itineraries for the BGS, and provides general administrative support.
Administrative Assistant (Full time)
Pensions & Benefits USADescription: This person will lead/manage special and cyclical projects, provide administrative assistance to the administrative director, coordinate education/training of internal staff and plan participants, ensure that appropriate resources and support are provided to complete projects, process customer services inquiries, and assist with monitoring and posting items to P&B USA social media outlets (Facebook/Twitter).
Benefits Technician (Full time)
Pensions and Benefits OfficeDescription: This person primarily assists the benefits supervisor with the processing/review of all benefit plans administered by Pensions and Benefits USA and Pensions and Benefits – International.
Communication Specialist (Full time)
Global Mission AdministrationDescription: This person provides insight and supports the work of the Global Mission administrative director; helps foster collaborative communication efforts between the regions and Global Mission team; advances the implementation and continuous improvement of the Global Mission communication strategy; collaborates on the improvement of existing and the creation of new initiatives, stories, and projects; and participates in and assist in the development of communication procedures and planning of meaningful gatherings for communicators.
Deputation/Home Assignment Coordinator (Full time)
Global Mission Personnel OfficeDescription: This person works directly with missionaries, creating and facilitating training to assure maximum effectiveness during home assignment. Other responsibilities include working with local and district church leaders in understanding and engaging missionaries while in their church(es), coordinating scheduling for deputation in churches and district events, and connecting local churches and districts with missionaries to encourage stewardship and relationship.
Human Resources Assistant (Full time)
Human ResourcesDescription: This person provides support by performing administrative duties to ensure the daily, efficient operations of the HR office. This person carries out responsibilities in assigned areas of employment, benefits, records, and employee relations, as well as assists the HR staff with implementation of services, policies, and programs.
Project Assistant (Part time, 30 hours per week)
Stewardship MinistriesDescription: This person works on a grant-funded project in the area of stewardship, assisting in all areas of development and administration of the project. The position is temporary and is expected to last for three years.
Receptionist (Full time)
Business CenterDescription: This position will provide quality service and hospitality to callers, guests, and offices of the Global Ministry Center. A majority of the time will be spent at the front desk communicating with various employees, constituents, and others via phone, email, and in person. The receptionist will be asked to serve in other roles within the Business Center as needed.
Technology Specialist (Full time)
Pensions & Benefits USADescription: This position will assist the technology supervisor in developing and maintaining the technology resources available to the Pensions and Benefits USA office and its constituents. This will include Web content management, development of systems for document storage and retrieval, assistance with upkeep of other business databases, resolution of basic desktop issues, and assistance with technology-related communication and training.
To obtain additional information, please call 913-577-0500 and ask for Human Resources.
Location of our PositionsThe 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 PolicyThe 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 OrganizationWe are a faith-based organization. Acceptance of our Christian Code of Conduct is required and membership in the Church of the Nazarene is required for certain positions. The GMC and applicable remote work sites are smoke-, alcohol-, and drug-free Christian workplaces.
Application ProcessingOur Human Resources Office receives and processes many employment applications annually for a limited number of positions. While we regret that we cannot respond to each applicant, we do contact those individuals possessing the skills, education/training, and experience that best match the requirements of the open position for which the application was submitted.
An application must be completed by all applicants and an application must be completed for each position for which one wishes to be considered. Applications are retained for one year. Resumés are not necessary for entry-level positions, but they are preferred for professional level positions.
Applying for Employment with the GMCApplication forms may be requested by calling 913-577-0500, emailing humanresourcesgroup@nazarene.org, or obtained in person from Human Resources at the Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center, 17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Lenexa, Kansas, 66220, Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 4:30 U.S. Central Time. Completed applications may be mailed or emailed to the attention of the Human Resources Office.
Read more
ForwardShareTweetShare+1
Copyright © 2016 NCN News, All rights reserved.
The Global Church of the Nazarene Communications Network
news@nazarene.org
Material created and owned by NCN News may be used for church newsletters and bulletins.
Address:
The Global Church of the Nazarene
Global Ministry Center
17001 Prairie Star Parkway
Lenexa, Kansas, United States 66220
Phone: 913-577-0500
Email: info@nazarene.org
-------
Material created and owned by NCN News may be used for church newsletters and bulletins.
Address:
The Global Church of the Nazarene
Global Ministry Center
17001 Prairie Star Parkway
Lenexa, Kansas, United States 66220
Phone: 913-577-0500
Email: info@nazarene.org
-------
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