Soldotna, Alaska
Alaska Nazarenes rescued after crash landing strands trio in wildernessJosh Smith, his daughter, Danielle, and John White were rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard
after being stranded for nearly 24 hours. (U.S. Coast Guard photo)
Three members of Soldotna, Alaska, Church of the Nazarene were rescued Monday evening after being stranded in the wilderness for nearly 24 hours following their plane’s crash landing.
Josh Smith and his father-in-law, John White, flew to Anchorage Sunday afternoon in the family’s Cessna 180 to pick up Smith’s daughter, Danielle. The group was traveling home when they went missing about 25 miles northwest of their destination, according to Alaska Dispatch Publishing.
Family members became concerned when the plane didn’t arrive at its destination, and the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center and Civil Air Patrol enlisted volunteers in small planes and on snow machines to search for the trio. Volunteers focused on the northern Kenai Peninsula, located between the departure location and the plane’s destination.
The family’s pastor, Bruce Hardesty, contacted Church of the Nazarene Alaska District Superintendent Paul Hartley to ask for prayer as the search began Sunday night, so Hartley posted a message on the district Facebook page.
Initially the volunteers were hopeful as several planes picked up an emergency signal, but they would later learn that signal needed to be triangulated in order to be accurate.
“As you can imagine the family — the Smiths and the Whites, as well as our Soldotna Nazarene and Alaska District family — was very upset over this entire time,” Hartley said. “As the time grew longer, we all grew more and more concerned.”
Meanwhile, as the urgency to find the missing group increased, so did the number of people praying for their safe return.
“Throughout this crisis, something amazing happened within the body of Christ — Nazarenes and many others,” Hartley said. “We had Facebook message after Facebook message from people telling us they were praying.
“At first it was hundreds and then a few thousand viewing and sharing the request and then it began to go viral that night and into the early hours of Monday morning. By mid-day Monday, we had over 100,000 views of our Facebook prayer request. People were commenting that they were praying from all over North America and around the world!”
On Monday morning, the search was turned over to the U.S. Coast Guard, who asked the volunteers to return home. Around 1 p.m., the search moved west across the Cook Inlet, which separates Anchorage and Soldotna.
Josh, John, and Danielle make their way toward the U.S. Coast Guard helicopter (U.S. Coast Guard photo).Nearly 24 hours after the crash, a Coast Guard helicopter located the downed plane thanks to a flare the missing group sent up.
“The Smiths and Whites are longtime Alaskan Nazarenes who were prepared for any possible difficulties with survival equipment and winter clothing, which aided in this rescue,” Hartley said. “Around 6 p.m., I received a phone call from Pastor Hardesty letting me know that the plane and all three passengers had been found by the Coast Guard alive.”
They were flown to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, where they were evaluated by medical personnel before being reunited with their family.
Noreen Price, a National Transportation Safety Board investigator, explained why Smith changed course.
"He chose that route because he thought weather would be better on the west side," Price told Alaska Dispatch Publishing. "He was attempting to do a full-stop landing on an unprepared snow-covered airstrip, and in that process he nosed over the aircraft."
Hartley is grateful for the prayers sent from around the world.
“I would just like to say thank you on behalf of the families and the Alaska District for all your prayers,” Hartley said. “Our God miraculously intervened in this crisis and for that we are very grateful!”Read more
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Hualpen, Chile
Chile churches request prayer as 'worst forest fires in decades' continue
Chile recently declared a state of emergency in the midst of its worst forest fires in decades. At least 11 people died and hundreds have been evacuated from their homes. The fires have burned more than 500,000 hectares (1.2 million acres) in seven of the country's 15 regions.
"The fire situation has been aggravated due to the high temperatures (40° Celsius/104° Fahrenheit) and the lack of rain," said Tabita Gonzalez, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries coordinator for the South America Region.
Chile President Michelle Bachelet requested help from other countries as Chile has “practically exhausted its capacity to fight the blazes.” The Daily Mail reported more than 20,000 people have helped battle the fires, including firefighters and experts from outside Chile. They are now focusing on populated areas since they do not have enough resources to work in all fire locations.
There are 25 Nazarene churches in the affected regions. The Hualpen Church of the Nazarene, whose members received disaster relief training, started a campaign last week with four other Nazarene churches to raise funds and to gather water and non-perishable food items for affected families and firefighters. The churches were able to raise enough for 50 kits, and the number continues to grow. Each kit is designed to last a family of four one week. The kits costs $75 and include water, non-perishable food, hygiene supplies, and house cleaning items.
At least four church members have family members affected by the fires. More information will be posted as it is made available.
How to help
Pray
Pray for rain and lower temperatures as firefighters battle the blaze. Pray for those attempting to extinguish the fire and the workers assisting affected communities. Pray for the families displaced from their homes and for the church leaders and members who are providing support to their neighbors.
Give
Churches and individuals who want to support the response efforts in Chile can give to the Chile Wildfire Fund.Read more-------
Northern Europe Field
Eurasia colleges work together to help Germany leaders continue education
Thanks to a partnership between Nazarene colleges on the Eurasia Region, eight church leaders with Kirche in Aktion (Church in Action) in Germany are earning their Master’s Degree in Theology without stepping away from their ministry.
KiA is a church planting effort with 26 locations in four cities — Frankfurt, Mainz, Darmstadt, and Wiesbaden — involved in urban ministry at sites such as pubs, coffee shops, and cinemas working with the homeless, the elderly, asylum seekers, prostitutes, and other inner city populations.
Most of the pastors already have bachelor’s degrees in other subjects but, due to their involvement with KiA, became interested in postgraduate study in theology. Some are seeking ordination.
One of the cohort was himself an asylum seeker; another is a marketing and project management professional who recently sensed a call into ministry; another has a finance background. Another is a new believer who found Christ through KiA and was baptized in January 2016.
Eric Smith is a KiA city pastor in Darmstadt who realized a need to study theology.
“One reason is to gain a better understanding of the Christian faith and tradition, its history, and the way it’s shaped the world we live in,” Smith wrote. “A second reason is that I’ve continued to gain more interest in the area of apologetics. Working in the context of western Europe, specifically Germany, I’ve gotten into many interesting conversations with people who have very much been influenced by ‘post-modernism,’ as well as Muslim refugees.”
Last spring, after meeting at an Urban Mission evening, one of the founding pastors, Cris Zimmermann, talked with Deirdre Brower Latz, principal at Nazarene Theological College (NTC–Manchester) in Manchester, United Kingdom, about the college supporting the formal education of their leaders. As this evolved, NTC–Manchester also started a conversation with European Nazarene College, which has a learning center in Frankfurt, to help prepare the students for postgraduate study.
“The MA in theology has a range of options, so it allows the students to start together with a common foundation, then select the pathways that suit them best,” said Peter Rae, NTC–Manchester academic dean. “Some are taking the urban ministry pathway to prepare them to work in the world’s cities; some are taking the humanitarian development route; still others are passionate about the Church’s response to Islam, so [they] are taking the MA in Christian engagement with Islam.”
It is quite routine at NTC–Manchester to have practitioners learning; indeed, one of the values of the college is that it exists to serve the church by equipping its leaders for relevant ministry and mission.
However, only a few in the group had prior studies in theology, which would make it difficult for them to study at the post-graduate level.
“To study with NTC they need to know at least two areas — one is historical theology, and the other is Introduction to biblical Studies,” said Klaus Arnold, rector of European Nazarene College (EuNC).
EuNC was asked to help provide the pre-master’s level courses that the leaders needed. Last autumn, the students took a course at EuNC’s Germany Learning Center in Frankfurt, and a second by intensive study and videoconference with NTC–Manchester. In January, the cohort began their MA work through NTC–Manchester, committing to read and prepare one day per week, and then joining short intensive courses several times a year at the NTC–Manchester campus while applying what they learn to their current ministry contexts.
“It’s a dual learning program,” said Philip Zimmermann, co-founder of KiA with Cris. “You are already in ministry and having responsibilities, and at the same time theoretically and theologically you are educated on deeper truth.”
NTC–Manchester’s MA in Theology (Urban Ministry) is particularly relevant to the cohort as KiA is pushing the envelope of evangelical ministry, tailoring it to a postmodern European urban setting, experimenting and taking risks to reach people with the gospel.
“That’s the question we are wrestling with, and the Church in general is wrestling with: How do we engage in church planting in urban cities? Because the way we used to do it is not working anymore,” Philip said. “It might be working in villages, but what about the urban centers? How can we do it there? We are an incubator to try out a few things. Some things don’t work at all and some things are working great.”
Philip said NTC–Manchester’s MA is a perfect fit for the needs of KiA pastors and lay leaders, many of whom need to not only know how to do ministry in an urban context, but also the theological foundations for why they do it in certain ways.
Joseph Wood, a lecturer at NTC–Manchester, taught one of the pre-MA courses, joining the students in their direct ministry context.
“‘I have been thoroughly impressed at the level of theological thinking this cohort has exhibited, but what impacted me the most is how their thinking is clothed in hospitality,” he said. “I left feeling inspired, excited, and exhausted. KiA is on full throttle. It’s in their name: ‘Action!”[Church of the Nazarene Eurasia]Read more-------
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Mesoamerica
Flags of the Nations: Haiti
The flag of Haiti features two horizontal bands coloured blue over red, defaced by a white panel bearing the coat of arms. The coat of arms depicts a trophy of weapons ready to defend freedom and a royal palm for independence. The palm is topped by the Cap of Liberty.
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: HaitiThe Church of the Nazarene officially entered Haiti in 1950.
Haiti had a population of 10,485,800 in 2016. That same year, Haiti reported 714 Churches of the Nazarene, 669 of which had been officially organized. Haiti has 134,236 total members.
Located on the Mesoamerica Region, Haiti has three Phase 3 districts and nine Phase 2 districts. For more information about the Mesoamerica Region, visit mesoamericaregion.org.
* = The weekly highlighted flag is raised on the middle of three poles in compliance with U.S. government protocols. It flies to the left of the GMC host-nation United States flag, which flies above the host-state flag of Kansas. The Christian flag flies on the third pole.
The Global Ministry Center is the mission and service hub of the Church of the Nazarene.Read more-------
USA/Canada
Moving Ministers: January 2017
Compiled by the General Secretary's Office from district reports, Moving Ministers is a monthly listing of Nazarene ministers in new assignments on the USA/Canada Region.
Roles included in the latest report are pastor and pastoral service. Entries were received from January 1 to January 31, 2017.
To view the January report, click here.
Lenexa, Kansas
P&B USA: Pastors may be eligible for $1,000 tax credit
U.S. ministers may be able to take a tax credit of up to $1,000 for contributions to their Nazarene 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan accounts in 2016. The Retirement Savings Contribution Credit (Saver’s Credit) was created by the Pension Protection Act of 2006 and continues to remain in effect. A couple filing jointly could be eligible for a tax credit of up to $2,000 ($1,000 each) if both contribute to their workplace savings plan and meet certain requirements. These include:
For the 2016 tax year, Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) cannot be more than:
Only voluntary contributions are eligible for the tax credit, and the amount of contributions eligible may be affected by any distributions received from the account during the year. For more details, visit the Internal Revenue Service website by clicking here.
Even if you cannot take advantage of this credit for the 2016 tax year, now’s a good time to start investing in your Nazarene 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan account to receive it for 2017. To enroll in the Nazarene 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan, phone Fidelity Investments at 800-343‐0860.[Pensions and Benefits USA]Read more -------
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Nazarene Bible College celebrates 50 years
Nazarene Bible College invites all students, alumni, and friends to join in a Celebration of 50 Years of Excellence, 1967-2017. The celebration will be part of the commencement weekend in Colorado Springs, May 26-28.
Friday, May 26
Kansas City, Missouri
NTS continues financial literacy program through $125,000 grant
Lilly Endowment Inc. recently awarded Nazarene Theological Seminary a $125,000 sustainability grant to continue its work in financial literacy for the next generation of pastors and other church leaders.
NTS was one of more than 50 theological schools in the U.S. to receive an initial three-year grant in 2014 to implement a program to encourage seminarians to graduate with manageable (or no) educational debt. The NTS Center for Pastoral Leadership leads this program, which includes extensive counseling and educational efforts directed primarily at new students, as well as ongoing campus educational initiatives open to the entire student body and seminary faculty and staff.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, NTS has the lowest student loan default ranking in Missouri and is tied for the lowest default rate in the nation with a zero percent default rate. This sustainability grant from Lilly Endowment will enable the Center for Pastoral Leadership to continue these initiatives and cooperate with the Church of the Nazarene's efforts to ensure financial wellness for Nazarene pastors.[Nazarene Theological Seminary]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 January 30 - February 3, 2017.
Violet Amore, 91, of Newark, Ohio, passed away January 27. She was the widow of retired minister Raymond Amore, who served in Ohio. Raymond Amore passed away in 2006.
D. Amos Ewald, 85, of Peoria, Arizona, passed away January 28. He was a retired minister, serving in Arizona. He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Ewald, in 2001.
Donald Grobe, 85, of San Diego, California, passed away December 29, 2016. He was a minister, previously serving in Minnesota, British Columbia, and California. He is survived by his wife, Marian Grobe.
Robert Huff, 91, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, passed away January 27. He was a retired minister, serving in Georgia, Arizona, Alabama, Tennessee, and New Zealand. He is survived by his wife, Joyce Huff.
Belle Nash, 94, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away February 1. She was the widow of retired minister and district superintendent Forrest Nash, who served in Arkansas, Kansas, Colorado, Illinois, and led the Chicago Central District. Forrest Nash passed away in 2002.
W. E. Rhodes, 85, of Georgetown, Texas, passed away January 28. He was a retired minister, serving in Missouri and Texas. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Rhodes.
Teresa Sandoval, 72, of Fort Worth, Texas, passed away January 24. She was the wife of retired minister and district superintendent Alejandro Sandoval, who served in Mexico and Texas and led the Southwest Latin American District.
Albert Stiefel, 89, of Oregon City, Oregon, passed away January 28. He was a retired minister and educator, serving in New York, Massachusetts, Idaho, and Oregon. He is survived by his wife, Janet Stiefel.
Catherine Welker, 76, Renton, Washington, passed away January 29. She was the wife of retired minister Lowell Welker, who served in British Columbia, Washington, Missouri, and Idaho.
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
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)
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 & Benefits USADescription: This position carries out various customer service tasks, including benefit application processing, benefit verifications, benefit distributions, and processing miscellaneous service requests. Additional duties include assisting in coordinating/completing cyclical and annual focus projects. Requires familiarity with employee benefits and an awareness of how insurance and pension plans work.
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)
Nazarene Missions InternationalDescription: This position 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.
Senior Accounting Technician – Accounts Payable (Full time)
Global Treasury ServicesDescription: This position will review and process disbursements, process 1099s, maintain vendor files and carry out other related duties as assigned.
Senior Administrative Coordinator (Full time)
USA/Canada Regional OfficeDescription: This person in this position is primarily a strategic facilitator, content creator, and outcome evaluator responsible for providing direction and oversight to develop communication strategies and services that benefit the USA/Canada Region, its various ministries, and its ministry partners. Communication channels include print, video, audio, email, web, blog, podcast, and news content.
Software Developer (Full time)
Information TechnologyDescription: Members of the software development team are primarily responsible for facilitating the ministry of the Global Ministry Center through the analysis, design, implementation, and support of software solutions.
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 Positions
The GMC is the administrative hub for the Church of the Nazarene denominational ministries in 159 world areas. The GMC is conveniently located in Lenexa, Kansas, with easy access to I-35 and I-435 and within short driving distance to Kansas City International airport. All GMC positions report to this location.
Our Non-Discrimination Policy
The Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center offers equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, disability, race, religion, creed, sex, or veteran status. The Global Ministry Center is an “at will” employer.
Our Faith-Based Organization
We are a faith-based organization. Acceptance of our Christian Code of Conduct is required and membership in the Church of the Nazarene is required for certain positions. The GMC and applicable remote work sites are smoke-, alcohol-, and drug-free Christian workplaces.
Application Processing
Our Human Resources Office receives and processes many employment applications annually for a limited number of positions. While we regret that we cannot respond to each applicant, we do contact those individuals possessing the skills, education/training, and experience that best match the requirements of the open position for which the application was submitted.
An application must be completed by all applicants and an application must be completed for each position for which one wishes to be considered. Applications are retained for one year. Resumés are not necessary for entry-level positions, but they are preferred for professional level positions.
Applying for Employment with the GMC
Application forms may be requested by calling 913-577-0500, emailing 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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Hualpen, Chile
Chile churches request prayer as 'worst forest fires in decades' continueChile recently declared a state of emergency in the midst of its worst forest fires in decades. At least 11 people died and hundreds have been evacuated from their homes. The fires have burned more than 500,000 hectares (1.2 million acres) in seven of the country's 15 regions.
"The fire situation has been aggravated due to the high temperatures (40° Celsius/104° Fahrenheit) and the lack of rain," said Tabita Gonzalez, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries coordinator for the South America Region.
Chile President Michelle Bachelet requested help from other countries as Chile has “practically exhausted its capacity to fight the blazes.” The Daily Mail reported more than 20,000 people have helped battle the fires, including firefighters and experts from outside Chile. They are now focusing on populated areas since they do not have enough resources to work in all fire locations.
There are 25 Nazarene churches in the affected regions. The Hualpen Church of the Nazarene, whose members received disaster relief training, started a campaign last week with four other Nazarene churches to raise funds and to gather water and non-perishable food items for affected families and firefighters. The churches were able to raise enough for 50 kits, and the number continues to grow. Each kit is designed to last a family of four one week. The kits costs $75 and include water, non-perishable food, hygiene supplies, and house cleaning items.
At least four church members have family members affected by the fires. More information will be posted as it is made available.
How to help
Pray
Pray for rain and lower temperatures as firefighters battle the blaze. Pray for those attempting to extinguish the fire and the workers assisting affected communities. Pray for the families displaced from their homes and for the church leaders and members who are providing support to their neighbors.
Give
Churches and individuals who want to support the response efforts in Chile can give to the Chile Wildfire Fund.Read more-------
Northern Europe Field
Eurasia colleges work together to help Germany leaders continue educationThanks to a partnership between Nazarene colleges on the Eurasia Region, eight church leaders with Kirche in Aktion (Church in Action) in Germany are earning their Master’s Degree in Theology without stepping away from their ministry.
KiA is a church planting effort with 26 locations in four cities — Frankfurt, Mainz, Darmstadt, and Wiesbaden — involved in urban ministry at sites such as pubs, coffee shops, and cinemas working with the homeless, the elderly, asylum seekers, prostitutes, and other inner city populations.
Most of the pastors already have bachelor’s degrees in other subjects but, due to their involvement with KiA, became interested in postgraduate study in theology. Some are seeking ordination.
One of the cohort was himself an asylum seeker; another is a marketing and project management professional who recently sensed a call into ministry; another has a finance background. Another is a new believer who found Christ through KiA and was baptized in January 2016.
Eric Smith is a KiA city pastor in Darmstadt who realized a need to study theology.
“One reason is to gain a better understanding of the Christian faith and tradition, its history, and the way it’s shaped the world we live in,” Smith wrote. “A second reason is that I’ve continued to gain more interest in the area of apologetics. Working in the context of western Europe, specifically Germany, I’ve gotten into many interesting conversations with people who have very much been influenced by ‘post-modernism,’ as well as Muslim refugees.”
Last spring, after meeting at an Urban Mission evening, one of the founding pastors, Cris Zimmermann, talked with Deirdre Brower Latz, principal at Nazarene Theological College (NTC–Manchester) in Manchester, United Kingdom, about the college supporting the formal education of their leaders. As this evolved, NTC–Manchester also started a conversation with European Nazarene College, which has a learning center in Frankfurt, to help prepare the students for postgraduate study.
“The MA in theology has a range of options, so it allows the students to start together with a common foundation, then select the pathways that suit them best,” said Peter Rae, NTC–Manchester academic dean. “Some are taking the urban ministry pathway to prepare them to work in the world’s cities; some are taking the humanitarian development route; still others are passionate about the Church’s response to Islam, so [they] are taking the MA in Christian engagement with Islam.”
It is quite routine at NTC–Manchester to have practitioners learning; indeed, one of the values of the college is that it exists to serve the church by equipping its leaders for relevant ministry and mission.
However, only a few in the group had prior studies in theology, which would make it difficult for them to study at the post-graduate level.
“To study with NTC they need to know at least two areas — one is historical theology, and the other is Introduction to biblical Studies,” said Klaus Arnold, rector of European Nazarene College (EuNC).
EuNC was asked to help provide the pre-master’s level courses that the leaders needed. Last autumn, the students took a course at EuNC’s Germany Learning Center in Frankfurt, and a second by intensive study and videoconference with NTC–Manchester. In January, the cohort began their MA work through NTC–Manchester, committing to read and prepare one day per week, and then joining short intensive courses several times a year at the NTC–Manchester campus while applying what they learn to their current ministry contexts.
“It’s a dual learning program,” said Philip Zimmermann, co-founder of KiA with Cris. “You are already in ministry and having responsibilities, and at the same time theoretically and theologically you are educated on deeper truth.”
NTC–Manchester’s MA in Theology (Urban Ministry) is particularly relevant to the cohort as KiA is pushing the envelope of evangelical ministry, tailoring it to a postmodern European urban setting, experimenting and taking risks to reach people with the gospel.
“That’s the question we are wrestling with, and the Church in general is wrestling with: How do we engage in church planting in urban cities? Because the way we used to do it is not working anymore,” Philip said. “It might be working in villages, but what about the urban centers? How can we do it there? We are an incubator to try out a few things. Some things don’t work at all and some things are working great.”
Philip said NTC–Manchester’s MA is a perfect fit for the needs of KiA pastors and lay leaders, many of whom need to not only know how to do ministry in an urban context, but also the theological foundations for why they do it in certain ways.
Joseph Wood, a lecturer at NTC–Manchester, taught one of the pre-MA courses, joining the students in their direct ministry context.
“‘I have been thoroughly impressed at the level of theological thinking this cohort has exhibited, but what impacted me the most is how their thinking is clothed in hospitality,” he said. “I left feeling inspired, excited, and exhausted. KiA is on full throttle. It’s in their name: ‘Action!”[Church of the Nazarene Eurasia]Read more-------
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Mesoamerica
Flags of the Nations: HaitiSince 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: HaitiThe Church of the Nazarene officially entered Haiti in 1950.
Haiti had a population of 10,485,800 in 2016. That same year, Haiti reported 714 Churches of the Nazarene, 669 of which had been officially organized. Haiti has 134,236 total members.
Located on the Mesoamerica Region, Haiti has three Phase 3 districts and nine Phase 2 districts. For more information about the Mesoamerica Region, visit mesoamericaregion.org.
* = The weekly highlighted flag is raised on the middle of three poles in compliance with U.S. government protocols. It flies to the left of the GMC host-nation United States flag, which flies above the host-state flag of Kansas. The Christian flag flies on the third pole.
The Global Ministry Center is the mission and service hub of the Church of the Nazarene.Read more-------
USA/Canada
Moving Ministers: January 2017Compiled by the General Secretary's Office from district reports, Moving Ministers is a monthly listing of Nazarene ministers in new assignments on the USA/Canada Region.
Roles included in the latest report are pastor and pastoral service. Entries were received from January 1 to January 31, 2017.
To view the January report, click here.
Moving Ministers As of: Thursday, 3 February 2017 from Sunday, 1 January 2017 to Tuesday, 31 January 2017
Rev. Benjamon M. Alexander from Pastoral Service
West Chester
West Chester OH to
Pastoral Service on 11/8/2016
Decatur First
Decatur IL
Rev. Matthew W. Bissonnette from Pastoral Service
Bend
Bend OR to
Pastor on 1/1/2017
Klamath Falls
Klamath Falls OR
Rev. Samuel J. Blakely from Unassigned
Virginia
Midlothian VA to
Pastor on 11/27/2016
Oscoda Huron Shores
Oscoda MI
Rev. Philip R. Burkhart from Pastoral Service
Kansas City Central
Lenexa KS to
Pastor on 2/19/2017
Ashland GracePoint
Ashland OR
Rev. Martha Carrasquillo from Pastor
Alcance Latino New Vision Community
San Antonio TX to
Pastor on 10/18/2016
San Antonio Central
San Antonio TX
Rev. Jeanna M. Clever from Pastoral Service
Smithville
Smithville TN to
Pastor on 11/28/2016
Aurora
Aurora MO
Rev. Joshua D. Cook from Pastor
Centerville
Centerville IN to
Pastor on 1/22/2017
The Plains-Athens Community
The Plains OH
Rev. David C. Dayhoff from Pastoral Service
Salisbury Cross Pointe
Salisbury MD to
Pastor on 1/29/2017
Oakland
Oakland MD
Rev. Cody W. Ellis from Pastoral Service
San Diego Mid-City English
San Diego CA to
Pastor on 11/27/2016
Banning
Banning CA
Rev. Timothy G. Estus from Pastor
Man
Man WV to
Pastor on 1/15/2017
Berry
Berry AL
Rev. William C. Gadbaw from Pastoral Service
Portland Central
Portland OR to
Pastoral Service on 1/18/2017
Poulsbo Connection Point
Poulsbo WA
Rev. Rick L. Garmon from Unassigned
Intermountain
Nampa ID to
Pastoral Service on 1/22/2017
Meridian Valley Shepherd
Meridian ID
Rev. Nestor A. Hernandez-Zambrana from Student
Kansas City
Overland Park KS to
Pastoral Service on 2/26/2017
Melbourne First
Melbourne FL
Rev. Chad M. Hill from Pastoral Service
Marion First
Marion OH to
Pastoral Service on 12/1/2016
Lakeland Highland Park
Lakeland FL
Rev. Robert W. Hussong IV from Pastoral Service
Dayton Northridge
Dayton OH to
Pastoral Service on 12/19/2016
Living Hope
Centerville OH
Rev. Gregory S. Kasler from Pastor
Cambridge First
Cambridge OH to
Pastor on 2/5/2017
Coraopolis
Moon Township PA
Rev. Curtis L. Koscheski from Pastor
Anadarko
Anadarko OK to
Pastor on 2/5/2017
Decatur Spring Avenue
Decatur AL
Rev. Grace C. Mantarian Easton from Pastoral Service
Denver ThornCreek
Thornton CO to
Pastoral Service on 1/23/2017
Emmaus Road
Fort Collins CO
Rev. Kevin R. McDonald from Pastor
Junction City First
Junction City KS to
Pastor on 12/18/2016
Murrieta Gateway
Murrieta CA
Rev. Robert P. McLaughlin from Pastoral Service
Sebago
Sebago ME to
Pastor on 12/4/2016
Mechanic Falls
Mechanic Falls ME
Rev. Robert P. Neil II from Student
North Central Ohio
Mount Vernon OH to
Pastoral Service on 1/17/2017
Erie First
Erie PA
Rev. Staci Rhodabarger from Student
Michigan
Grand Ledge MI to
Pastor on 1/8/2017
Columbus
Columbus KS
Rev. Staci Rhodabarger from Pastoral Service
Bay City Faith
Bay City MI to
Pastor on 1/8/2017
Columbus
Columbus KS
Rev. Aaron Christopher Taylor from Student
West Texas
Hurst TX to
Pastoral Service on 1/1/2017
Farmington Crossroads Community
Farmington NM
Rev. Robert J. Tharp from Pastor
Coldwater
Coldwater MI to
Pastor on 1/16/2017
Watertown
Watertown NY
Rev. Timothy A. Thomas from Pastor
Mount Crawford Dayspring
Mount Crawford VA to
Pastor on 12/13/2016
Morehead
Morehead KY
Rev. Samantha N. Vannoy from Pastoral Service
New Galilee
New Galilee PA to
Pastor on 1/2/2017
Edinboro Hillcrest
Edinboro PA
For previous reports, see usacanadanazarene.org.Read more
-------Lenexa, Kansas
P&B USA: Pastors may be eligible for $1,000 tax creditU.S. ministers may be able to take a tax credit of up to $1,000 for contributions to their Nazarene 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan accounts in 2016. The Retirement Savings Contribution Credit (Saver’s Credit) was created by the Pension Protection Act of 2006 and continues to remain in effect. A couple filing jointly could be eligible for a tax credit of up to $2,000 ($1,000 each) if both contribute to their workplace savings plan and meet certain requirements. These include:
For the 2016 tax year, Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) cannot be more than:
- $61,500 if you are married and file a joint tax return
- $46,125 if you file as head of household on your tax return
- $30,750 if you file single, married filing separately or as a qualifying widow(er)
- Must be 18 or older by January 2 of the year for which the claim is being made
- Cannot be a full-time student
- Cannot be claimed as an exemption or dependent on another person’s tax return
Only voluntary contributions are eligible for the tax credit, and the amount of contributions eligible may be affected by any distributions received from the account during the year. For more details, visit the Internal Revenue Service website by clicking here.
Even if you cannot take advantage of this credit for the 2016 tax year, now’s a good time to start investing in your Nazarene 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan account to receive it for 2017. To enroll in the Nazarene 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan, phone Fidelity Investments at 800-343‐0860.[Pensions and Benefits USA]Read more -------
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Nazarene Bible College celebrates 50 yearsNazarene Bible College invites all students, alumni, and friends to join in a Celebration of 50 Years of Excellence, 1967-2017. The celebration will be part of the commencement weekend in Colorado Springs, May 26-28.
Friday, May 26
- Graduate Picnic for graduates and families, patio outside Williamson, 4:30 – 5:45 p.m. (RSVP required)
- Rehearsals, 6 – 8 p.m.
- Convocation, Apostles Court, 9:30 a.m.
- Graduate Reception, Williamson Hall - Alumni Room (following Convocation)
- 50th Celebration Service, Strickland Chapel, 6 p.m.
- 50th Celebration Gathering, Williamson Hall - Alumni Room (following the Celebration Service)
- Worship Service, Strickland Chapel, 10 a.m.
- Commencement, Strickland Chapel, 3 p.m.
Kansas City, Missouri
NTS continues financial literacy program through $125,000 grantLilly Endowment Inc. recently awarded Nazarene Theological Seminary a $125,000 sustainability grant to continue its work in financial literacy for the next generation of pastors and other church leaders.
NTS was one of more than 50 theological schools in the U.S. to receive an initial three-year grant in 2014 to implement a program to encourage seminarians to graduate with manageable (or no) educational debt. The NTS Center for Pastoral Leadership leads this program, which includes extensive counseling and educational efforts directed primarily at new students, as well as ongoing campus educational initiatives open to the entire student body and seminary faculty and staff.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, NTS has the lowest student loan default ranking in Missouri and is tied for the lowest default rate in the nation with a zero percent default rate. This sustainability grant from Lilly Endowment will enable the Center for Pastoral Leadership to continue these initiatives and cooperate with the Church of the Nazarene's efforts to ensure financial wellness for Nazarene pastors.[Nazarene Theological Seminary]Read more-------
In MemoriamThe following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received January 30 - February 3, 2017.
Violet Amore, 91, of Newark, Ohio, passed away January 27. She was the widow of retired minister Raymond Amore, who served in Ohio. Raymond Amore passed away in 2006.
D. Amos Ewald, 85, of Peoria, Arizona, passed away January 28. He was a retired minister, serving in Arizona. He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Ewald, in 2001.
Donald Grobe, 85, of San Diego, California, passed away December 29, 2016. He was a minister, previously serving in Minnesota, British Columbia, and California. He is survived by his wife, Marian Grobe.
Robert Huff, 91, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, passed away January 27. He was a retired minister, serving in Georgia, Arizona, Alabama, Tennessee, and New Zealand. He is survived by his wife, Joyce Huff.
Belle Nash, 94, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away February 1. She was the widow of retired minister and district superintendent Forrest Nash, who served in Arkansas, Kansas, Colorado, Illinois, and led the Chicago Central District. Forrest Nash passed away in 2002.
W. E. Rhodes, 85, of Georgetown, Texas, passed away January 28. He was a retired minister, serving in Missouri and Texas. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Rhodes.
Teresa Sandoval, 72, of Fort Worth, Texas, passed away January 24. She was the wife of retired minister and district superintendent Alejandro Sandoval, who served in Mexico and Texas and led the Southwest Latin American District.
Albert Stiefel, 89, of Oregon City, Oregon, passed away January 28. He was a retired minister and educator, serving in New York, Massachusetts, Idaho, and Oregon. He is survived by his wife, Janet Stiefel.
Catherine Welker, 76, Renton, Washington, passed away January 29. She was the wife of retired minister Lowell Welker, who served in British Columbia, Washington, Missouri, and Idaho.
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 opportunitiesPeople are our most valued resource. Our committed employees are involved in "Making Christlike Disciples in the Nations" in 159 world areas.
The Global Ministry Center Human Resources Office professionals strive to deliver the highest possible service to our employees, and are responsible for the recruitment, placement and retention of qualified individuals to staff the ministry and administrative positions of the GMC. The many employee services include compensation and benefit administration, payroll, employment, employee relations, training, counseling, organizational communication and events, and workplace programs.
*Volunteer opportunities for GMC ministries are available now. Email jveigl@nazarene.org for details.
Employment Opportunities
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 & Benefits USADescription: This position carries out various customer service tasks, including benefit application processing, benefit verifications, benefit distributions, and processing miscellaneous service requests. Additional duties include assisting in coordinating/completing cyclical and annual focus projects. Requires familiarity with employee benefits and an awareness of how insurance and pension plans work.
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)
Nazarene Missions InternationalDescription: This position 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.
Senior Accounting Technician – Accounts Payable (Full time)
Global Treasury ServicesDescription: This position will review and process disbursements, process 1099s, maintain vendor files and carry out other related duties as assigned.
Senior Administrative Coordinator (Full time)
USA/Canada Regional OfficeDescription: This person in this position is primarily a strategic facilitator, content creator, and outcome evaluator responsible for providing direction and oversight to develop communication strategies and services that benefit the USA/Canada Region, its various ministries, and its ministry partners. Communication channels include print, video, audio, email, web, blog, podcast, and news content.
Software Developer (Full time)
Information TechnologyDescription: Members of the software development team are primarily responsible for facilitating the ministry of the Global Ministry Center through the analysis, design, implementation, and support of software solutions.
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 Positions
The GMC is the administrative hub for the Church of the Nazarene denominational ministries in 159 world areas. The GMC is conveniently located in Lenexa, Kansas, with easy access to I-35 and I-435 and within short driving distance to Kansas City International airport. All GMC positions report to this location.
Our Non-Discrimination Policy
The Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center offers equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, disability, race, religion, creed, sex, or veteran status. The Global Ministry Center is an “at will” employer.
Our Faith-Based Organization
We are a faith-based organization. Acceptance of our Christian Code of Conduct is required and membership in the Church of the Nazarene is required for certain positions. The GMC and applicable remote work sites are smoke-, alcohol-, and drug-free Christian workplaces.
Application Processing
Our Human Resources Office receives and processes many employment applications annually for a limited number of positions. While we regret that we cannot respond to each applicant, we do contact those individuals possessing the skills, education/training, and experience that best match the requirements of the open position for which the application was submitted.
An application must be completed by all applicants and an application must be completed for each position for which one wishes to be considered. Applications are retained for one year. Resumés are not necessary for entry-level positions, but they are preferred for professional level positions.
Applying for Employment with the GMC
Application forms may be requested by calling 913-577-0500, emailing 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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Copyright © 2017 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.
Material created and owned by NCN News may be used for church newsletters and bulletins.
ABOUT USThe Church of the Nazarene is a Protestant Christian church in the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition. Organized in 1908, the denomination is now home to about 2.3 million members worshipping in more than 29,000 local congregations in 159 world areas.
Address:
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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