Kudjip, Papua New Guinea
Kudjip Nazarene Hospital opens new houses, water systemThirty-two staff houses and a clean water project were opened on Saturday at the Kudjip Nazarene Hospital in Jiwaka Province.
The Fair Housing and Water Projects are to address overcrowding and the lack of water situation at the hospital.
The project was worth over K5 million (approximately US$ 1.5 million) and funded by Australian and US Aid and the Church of the Nazarene.
Nurses, doctors, and ancillary staff of Kudjip Nazarene Hospital can now access a separate home and a clean sustainable water system.
For the rest of the story, click here (EMTV).
Related: Last year at this time, the Asia-Pacific Region shared a story about the impending government budget cuts in Papua New Guinea that were affecting the work of the Kudjip Nazarene Hospital including the staff. Although these budget cuts have forced many changes at the hospital, the work that God has called them to continues and great things are still happening.
The Fair Housing and Water Projects are to address overcrowding and the lack of water situation at the hospital.
The project was worth over K5 million (approximately US$ 1.5 million) and funded by Australian and US Aid and the Church of the Nazarene.
Nurses, doctors, and ancillary staff of Kudjip Nazarene Hospital can now access a separate home and a clean sustainable water system.
For the rest of the story, click here (EMTV).
Related: Last year at this time, the Asia-Pacific Region shared a story about the impending government budget cuts in Papua New Guinea that were affecting the work of the Kudjip Nazarene Hospital including the staff. Although these budget cuts have forced many changes at the hospital, the work that God has called them to continues and great things are still happening.
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Sawat Hahom remembered
Sawat Hahom (third from left) served as Thailand district superintendent.
Ajaarn Sawat Hahom, former superintendent of the Thailand District, passed away February 1. He served the district from 2001 to 2016.
Born 30 June 1952 to Thong and Pin Hahom, Sawat was the eldest of six siblings. He grew up in a Christian family in Khonkaen, northeastern Thailand. He was married to Palida, who passed away in February 2013. They have two daughters, Narissa (Nok) and Panasda (Gop).
As a young man, Sawat surrendered his life to the Lord and soon began serving God with his whole heart. He served Christ for nearly 50 years by making disciples through the Christian and Missionary Alliance as Campus Crusade Jesus Film coordinator, pastor of Bangkok First Church of the Nazarene and Situek Church of the Nazarene, and Thailand district superintendent.
Sawat Hahom remembered
Sawat Hahom (third from left) served as Thailand district superintendent.
Ajaarn Sawat Hahom, former superintendent of the Thailand District, passed away February 1. He served the district from 2001 to 2016.
Born 30 June 1952 to Thong and Pin Hahom, Sawat was the eldest of six siblings. He grew up in a Christian family in Khonkaen, northeastern Thailand. He was married to Palida, who passed away in February 2013. They have two daughters, Narissa (Nok) and Panasda (Gop).
As a young man, Sawat surrendered his life to the Lord and soon began serving God with his whole heart. He served Christ for nearly 50 years by making disciples through the Christian and Missionary Alliance as Campus Crusade Jesus Film coordinator, pastor of Bangkok First Church of the Nazarene and Situek Church of the Nazarene, and Thailand district superintendent.
Sawat traveled throughout southeast Asia, the USA, and even into parts of Europe. Some of the people he discipled are now pastors and church leaders serving on the Thailand District. Among them are Suvit and Pastor Lamp. Suvit came to Christ after walking many kilometers to meet Sawat who then answered his questions about Jesus, introducing him to Christ. Suvit is now the Thailand district secretary. Pastor Lamp, who is now Thailand district superintendent, also attributes much of his ministerial growth to Sawat's close and patient mentoring.
In addition to being a leader and mentor, Sawat was also a loving husband and father. Anyone who knew him knew he loved his family almost as much as he loved his Lord Jesus.
In addition to being a leader and mentor, Sawat was also a loving husband and father. Anyone who knew him knew he loved his family almost as much as he loved his Lord Jesus.
Sawat’s daughter Nok once asked him why their family always had to live in difficult circumstances. He answered that "When we serve the Lord we accept whatever the circumstances, no matter how hard. Wherever God leads, that’s where we go." The family used to tell each other they would always be fine because they have each other. When Palida died, Sawat asked his daughters, “What will I do now?” The daughters responded, “You will be surrounded by us and cared for.” He replied with his characteristic smile, “Yes, for sure. I still have much to do.” Now as he has passed to his heavenly home, both girls feel the sting of having no parents. But when asked what will they do, they reply, “We have each other.”
Those who knew Sawat remembers his laughter, his love of words, and his ready smile, as well as his prayers. Sawat’s life verse was Acts 20:24: “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me — the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.”
He is survived by his two daughters, son-in-law, and four grandchildren, in addition to extended family members.
The family shared the following Facebook message February 5:
“Thank you to everyone who has come to my father’s memorial services. Thank you for all the prayers, love and care, encouragement and help that you have sent to our family. We are sincerely grateful. May God bless each and every one of you.”[Church of the Nazarene] Asia-Pacific
Those who knew Sawat remembers his laughter, his love of words, and his ready smile, as well as his prayers. Sawat’s life verse was Acts 20:24: “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me — the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.”
He is survived by his two daughters, son-in-law, and four grandchildren, in addition to extended family members.
The family shared the following Facebook message February 5:
“Thank you to everyone who has come to my father’s memorial services. Thank you for all the prayers, love and care, encouragement and help that you have sent to our family. We are sincerely grateful. May God bless each and every one of you.”[Church of the Nazarene] Asia-Pacific
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Trevecca alumni reflect on ministering to refugees in Greece
Jacob and Dorothee Morris, along with their two children Elias and Miriam, are currently working with Courage for the Journey, a partnership between the Church of the Nazarene's Central Europe and Western Mediterranean fields, to assist refugees fleeing unrest in the Middle East. The Morris' arrived in northern Greece in last summer after living in Serbia for five months.
The couples’ primary job has been to provide educational and recreational activities within the refugee camps, with a particular emphasis on children.
“We teach English to adults and English and general knowledge, [including] math, geography [and] science to kids and organize activities [such as] sports, crafts [and] movie nights,” said Jacob Morris.
In addition to this, a substantial portion of the Morrises’ ministry has been relational. The family regularly spends time with refugees as they process loss and trauma in the camps and wait for the opportunity to rebuild their lives in an unfamiliar place.
The Morris family sees the refugees’ situation as comparable to the plight of Job in the Bible, a man who endured unimaginable hardship.
“A huge part of the work we are doing is what we have come to refer to as ‘sitting on the ash heap’ with our friends,” Jacob said. “In the Book of Job, after losing everything and everyone to violence and natural disaster, Job sat upon the ash heap in mourning. As soon as Job's friends heard about his plight, they journeyed together to go and sympathize with him and comfort him. Upon seeing their friend in an unrecognizable state, Job's friends began to weep and tear their clothes. They took their seats next to him on the ground and sat with him in silence for seven days and seven nights.”
Jacob and Dorothee can’t help but draw comparisons between their friends in the camps and Job. The couple says they aim to sit in solidarity with the refugees, even when they encounter grief and trauma.
“In the midst of such dehumanizing circumstances, we hope our presence in the camps can serve to restore some measure of dignity by learning the names and listening to stories of our new friends,” Jacob said. “We play chess and cards. We cook. We eat—a lot. We laugh. We cry. We dance. And then we eat some more.”
In the midst of this, the couple says the refugees have shown them authentic hospitality that has inspired their own ministry. Dorothee says the experience has also helped her family to gain a deeper understanding of what it means to open up their home and lives to others.
“The hospitality that we have received here over the last seven months have opened our eyes to what true hospitality really looks like,” she said. “It is the generous offering of everything you have, even when it is the only meal you receive and you share it with your newly gained friends, yet strangers.”
For the Morrises’ young children, the experience has been one they’ve eagerly embraced. They have made friends within the camps and are learning Greek and Arabic.
“Children are incredibly resilient, and Elias and Miriam have proven that to be true again and again,” Dorothee said. “Kids thrive with routine, but ours have done incredibly well in a situation where a consistent routine is difficult to manage.”
The Morrises hope their children will learn to extend hospitality the way it has been extended to them and defend those who are marginalized.
“We hope that Elias and Miriam will remember the generosity and hospitality that we have received and that they will in turn offer it without any conditions,” she said. “May they become voices for the voiceless and stand up for justice for everyone.”
Jacob and Dorothee Morris are Trevecca Nazarene University alumi.[Trevecca Nazarene University]
Trevecca alumni reflect on ministering to refugees in Greece
Jacob and Dorothee Morris, along with their two children Elias and Miriam, are currently working with Courage for the Journey, a partnership between the Church of the Nazarene's Central Europe and Western Mediterranean fields, to assist refugees fleeing unrest in the Middle East. The Morris' arrived in northern Greece in last summer after living in Serbia for five months.
The couples’ primary job has been to provide educational and recreational activities within the refugee camps, with a particular emphasis on children.
“We teach English to adults and English and general knowledge, [including] math, geography [and] science to kids and organize activities [such as] sports, crafts [and] movie nights,” said Jacob Morris.
In addition to this, a substantial portion of the Morrises’ ministry has been relational. The family regularly spends time with refugees as they process loss and trauma in the camps and wait for the opportunity to rebuild their lives in an unfamiliar place.
The Morris family sees the refugees’ situation as comparable to the plight of Job in the Bible, a man who endured unimaginable hardship.
“A huge part of the work we are doing is what we have come to refer to as ‘sitting on the ash heap’ with our friends,” Jacob said. “In the Book of Job, after losing everything and everyone to violence and natural disaster, Job sat upon the ash heap in mourning. As soon as Job's friends heard about his plight, they journeyed together to go and sympathize with him and comfort him. Upon seeing their friend in an unrecognizable state, Job's friends began to weep and tear their clothes. They took their seats next to him on the ground and sat with him in silence for seven days and seven nights.”
Jacob and Dorothee can’t help but draw comparisons between their friends in the camps and Job. The couple says they aim to sit in solidarity with the refugees, even when they encounter grief and trauma.
“In the midst of such dehumanizing circumstances, we hope our presence in the camps can serve to restore some measure of dignity by learning the names and listening to stories of our new friends,” Jacob said. “We play chess and cards. We cook. We eat—a lot. We laugh. We cry. We dance. And then we eat some more.”
In the midst of this, the couple says the refugees have shown them authentic hospitality that has inspired their own ministry. Dorothee says the experience has also helped her family to gain a deeper understanding of what it means to open up their home and lives to others.
“The hospitality that we have received here over the last seven months have opened our eyes to what true hospitality really looks like,” she said. “It is the generous offering of everything you have, even when it is the only meal you receive and you share it with your newly gained friends, yet strangers.”
For the Morrises’ young children, the experience has been one they’ve eagerly embraced. They have made friends within the camps and are learning Greek and Arabic.
“Children are incredibly resilient, and Elias and Miriam have proven that to be true again and again,” Dorothee said. “Kids thrive with routine, but ours have done incredibly well in a situation where a consistent routine is difficult to manage.”
The Morrises hope their children will learn to extend hospitality the way it has been extended to them and defend those who are marginalized.
“We hope that Elias and Miriam will remember the generosity and hospitality that we have received and that they will in turn offer it without any conditions,” she said. “May they become voices for the voiceless and stand up for justice for everyone.”
Jacob and Dorothee Morris are Trevecca Nazarene University alumi.[Trevecca Nazarene University]
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Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis, Indiana
General Assembly promotional resources now available
Less than four months remain until the 2017 General Assembly and Conventions in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
For churches and individuals wishing to promote the event, materials are available at nazarene.org/ga.
The free, downloadable resources include posters, bulletin inserts, social media posts, banners, videos, and more.
Every four years, more than 20,000 Church of the Nazarene members from around the world gather for a global family reunion that features times of worship, service, fellowship, training, and making important decisions that will affect future generations of Nazarenes.
Click here to visit the GA Facebook event page and let friends know you’ll be attending.
General Assembly 2017 — Download Video
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Eurasia
Flags of the Nations: Italy
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: ItalyThe Church of the Nazarene officially entered Italy in 1948.
Italy had a population of 62,007,540 in 2016. That same year, Italy reported eight Churches of the Nazarene, all of which have been officially organized. Italy has 384 total members.
Italy is a Phase 1 district on the Eurasia Region. For more information, 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.
Lenexa, Kansas
Less than four months remain until the 2017 General Assembly and Conventions in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
For churches and individuals wishing to promote the event, materials are available at nazarene.org/ga.
The free, downloadable resources include posters, bulletin inserts, social media posts, banners, videos, and more.
Every four years, more than 20,000 Church of the Nazarene members from around the world gather for a global family reunion that features times of worship, service, fellowship, training, and making important decisions that will affect future generations of Nazarenes.
Click here to visit the GA Facebook event page and let friends know you’ll be attending.
InstagramContactEurasia
Flags of the Nations: Italy
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: ItalyThe Church of the Nazarene officially entered Italy in 1948.
Italy had a population of 62,007,540 in 2016. That same year, Italy reported eight Churches of the Nazarene, all of which have been officially organized. Italy has 384 total members.
Italy is a Phase 1 district on the Eurasia Region. For more information, 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.
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USA/Canada
Wahiawa, Hawaii
USA/Canada
Wahiawa, Hawaii
Small Hawaii church making big waves in struggling community
Karli* first became a Christian at the age of 16, when her dad was in the military in Tennessee. At the age of 18, she moved to Hawaii and, as she drifted away from God, took a job dancing, which led her into prostitution for the next 20 years.
But God had not drifted away from Karli. Through the committed outreach of a local Nazarene church in the island of Oahu, God’s grace and persistence led Karli back to Him, something Karli is now eager to share with others.
On the Pacific island of Oahu, part of seven inhabited islands that make up the U.S. state of Hawaii, a church of about 35 people meet and worship weekly, working to create more life-change stories like Karli’s. Wahiawa Community Church of the Nazarene sits at the top of a hill in the older town of Wahiawa, which, in scenery, is rural and relaxed compared to the nearby city of Honolulu and much of the rest of the island. Though Wahiawa’s population is only 25,000 people, it has one of the highest rates of prostitution and substance abuse in Hawaii. More than 200 homeless reside here, 90 percent of whom are addicted to various substances.
For the rest of the story, see Engage magazine.
Small Hawaii church making big waves in struggling community by Kaitlyn Williams
Karli* first became a Christian at the age of 16, when her dad was in the military in Tennessee. At the age of 18, she moved to Hawaii and, as she drifted away from God, took a job dancing, which led her into prostitution for the next 20 years.
But God had not drifted away from Karli. Through the committed outreach of a local Nazarene church in the island of Oahu, God’s grace and persistence led Karli back to Him, something Karli is now eager to share with others.
Karli* first became a Christian at the age of 16, when her dad was in the military in Tennessee. At the age of 18, she moved to Hawaii and, as she drifted away from God, took a job dancing, which led her into prostitution for the next 20 years.
But God had not drifted away from Karli. Through the committed outreach of a local Nazarene church in the island of Oahu, God’s grace and persistence led Karli back to Him, something Karli is now eager to share with others.
On the Pacific island of Oahu, part of seven inhabited islands that make up the U.S. state of Hawaii, a church of about 35 people meet and worship weekly, working to create more life-change stories like Karli’s. Wahiawa Community Church of the Nazarene sits at the top of a hill in the older town of Wahiawa, which, in scenery, is rural and relaxed compared to the nearby city of Honolulu and much of the rest of the island. Though Wahiawa’s population is only 25,000 people, it has one of the highest rates of prostitution and substance abuse in Hawaii. More than 200 homeless reside here, 90 percent of whom are addicted to various substances.
For the rest of the story, see Engage magazine.
Small Hawaii church making big waves in struggling community by Kaitlyn Williams
Karli* first became a Christian at the age of 16, when her dad was in the military in Tennessee. At the age of 18, she moved to Hawaii and, as she drifted away from God, took a job dancing, which led her into prostitution for the next 20 years.
But God had not drifted away from Karli. Through the committed outreach of a local Nazarene church in the island of Oahu, God’s grace and persistence led Karli back to Him, something Karli is now eager to share with others.
On the Pacific island of Oahu, part of seven inhabited islands that make up the U.S. state of Hawaii, a church of about 35 people meet and worship weekly, working to create more life-change stories like Karli’s. Wahiawa Community Church of the Nazarene sits at the top of a hill in the older town of Wahiawa, which, in scenery, is rural and relaxed compared to the nearby city of Honolulu and much of the rest of the island. Though Wahiawa’s population is only 25,000 people, it has one of the highest rates of prostitution and substance abuse in Hawaii. More than 200 homeless reside here, 90 percent of whom are addicted to various substances.
The community is multi-ethnic, with the highest proportion tracing heritage to or immigrating from Asian countries.
“I think if the apostle Paul would have been here, he would have been so happy because he would have so many opportunities to reach so many different cultures,” says Senior Pastor John Miller, who moved to the island with his wife and three children about five years ago to lead the Wahiawa church.
Having been healed and restored from his own alcoholic past, Miller has helped lead the church even deeper into compassion-oriented ministries.
The community is multi-ethnic, with the highest proportion tracing heritage to or immigrating from Asian countries.
“I think if the apostle Paul would have been here, he would have been so happy because he would have so many opportunities to reach so many different cultures,” says Senior Pastor John Miller, who moved to the island with his wife and three children about five years ago to lead the Wahiawa church.
Having been healed and restored from his own alcoholic past, Miller has helped lead the church even deeper into compassion-oriented ministries.
Despite its small size, Wahiawa Community is bringing Christ to the people of Wahiawa through transformation ministries such as Celebrate Recovery for the addicted, Healing Arts for abused and trafficked women, feeding programs for the hungry, and more.
Mobile food ministry
A new ministry to address homelessness is led by Rev. LeVander McQueen, a board member at the church, also a military veteran and retired pastor. McQueen was first connected to the church by attending a pastor’s association meeting where he met Miller. McQueen has dedicated his life to food truck ministries, and found in Miller an enthusiastic supporter. He quickly decided to join Wahiawa Community Church.
“My mother once told me that ‘If you are not doing something for the Lord, you are not doing anything at all.’ So, I have to be doing something for the Lord,” says McQueen.
The church’s new ministry uses a food truck to reach the hungry. Eventually, McQueen and the congregation plan on setting up a food bank at the church, as well as clothes, housing financing, and medical help. The food truck will not only feed the hungry, but will partner with other agencies to help economically struggling people reclaim their financial independence.
“You have to have a heart for people. You can tell by looking into a baby’s eyes; you can tell what they need is food. I continue to do this, but on a daily basis I get my heart broken. However, someone had to love me back to health, so I think we should love others back to health,” says McQueen.
Miller himself is involved in a collaboration of churches in the area to pool resources to help more people. This past Christmas, Wahiawa Community partnered with other churches and organizations to host a large Christmas celebration for the homeless community.
The planning and implementation of the event was made possible by the Wahiawa Homeless Alliance, which is made up of churches, non-profits, local residents, and businesses, as well as the state government. State Representative Marcus Oshiro was the driving force behind the formation of the Alliance and continues to be very active in its ongoing outreaches. The first members of the Alliance were ALEA Bridge and the Wahiawa Community Church.
People were asked what three things they wanted for Christmas, and then the groups purchased them. Since holidays can be especially depressing for those not celebrating, the goal was to bring some joy to people who may be experiencing sadness. The event had widespread support from the Wahiawa community, with about 200 people attending from churches, the state government, the local hospital, and businesses.
“We sat together, we ate together, we prayed together… it was the most hopeful event I have ever seen,” said Miller.
Healing through art
Rev. Marissa Greentree, the compassionate ministries pastor at Wahiawa Community since October 2016, has started a Healing Arts ministry, which works primarily with women who are abuse survivors.
Greentree herself came out of an abusive marriage in 2010 and spent many years healing and rebuilding her relationship with God. She dealt with post-traumatic stress disorder and doubting Christianity in general, but then began researching domestic violence and learned that she was not alone: the statistical numbers of women suffering violence were staggering. That is when Greentree believes God told her eventually she would open a center for abused women.
Mobile food ministry
A new ministry to address homelessness is led by Rev. LeVander McQueen, a board member at the church, also a military veteran and retired pastor. McQueen was first connected to the church by attending a pastor’s association meeting where he met Miller. McQueen has dedicated his life to food truck ministries, and found in Miller an enthusiastic supporter. He quickly decided to join Wahiawa Community Church.
“My mother once told me that ‘If you are not doing something for the Lord, you are not doing anything at all.’ So, I have to be doing something for the Lord,” says McQueen.
The church’s new ministry uses a food truck to reach the hungry. Eventually, McQueen and the congregation plan on setting up a food bank at the church, as well as clothes, housing financing, and medical help. The food truck will not only feed the hungry, but will partner with other agencies to help economically struggling people reclaim their financial independence.
“You have to have a heart for people. You can tell by looking into a baby’s eyes; you can tell what they need is food. I continue to do this, but on a daily basis I get my heart broken. However, someone had to love me back to health, so I think we should love others back to health,” says McQueen.
Miller himself is involved in a collaboration of churches in the area to pool resources to help more people. This past Christmas, Wahiawa Community partnered with other churches and organizations to host a large Christmas celebration for the homeless community.
The planning and implementation of the event was made possible by the Wahiawa Homeless Alliance, which is made up of churches, non-profits, local residents, and businesses, as well as the state government. State Representative Marcus Oshiro was the driving force behind the formation of the Alliance and continues to be very active in its ongoing outreaches. The first members of the Alliance were ALEA Bridge and the Wahiawa Community Church.
People were asked what three things they wanted for Christmas, and then the groups purchased them. Since holidays can be especially depressing for those not celebrating, the goal was to bring some joy to people who may be experiencing sadness. The event had widespread support from the Wahiawa community, with about 200 people attending from churches, the state government, the local hospital, and businesses.
“We sat together, we ate together, we prayed together… it was the most hopeful event I have ever seen,” said Miller.
Healing through art
Rev. Marissa Greentree, the compassionate ministries pastor at Wahiawa Community since October 2016, has started a Healing Arts ministry, which works primarily with women who are abuse survivors.
Greentree herself came out of an abusive marriage in 2010 and spent many years healing and rebuilding her relationship with God. She dealt with post-traumatic stress disorder and doubting Christianity in general, but then began researching domestic violence and learned that she was not alone: the statistical numbers of women suffering violence were staggering. That is when Greentree believes God told her eventually she would open a center for abused women.
She began studying and attending trainings to learn as much as possible about how to help the abused. Greentree trained churches on how to respond to domestic violence, and a couple of years ago started her Healing Arts ministry, which helps women engage in art projects that are accompanied with a healing message and related Scripture.
When she and her 8-year-old son moved to Wahiawa, she established the ministry there. Art can be used to bring emotional healing through creativity. Some studies have shown that participating in creative activities such as painting, dancing and music stimulates the body’s own natural healing processes, reduces anxiety and depression, and calms the mind.
“If we are created in the image of a creative God, we are creative. It may be through words, through art, really anything. We want people to learn of their creative ability through Christ,”
Greentree said.
The program is reaching out to girls and women who come out of sex trafficking, domestic violence, rape and prostitution. Many of these women are homeless, as one third of homelessness includes domestic violence (according to ALEA Bridge and The National Coalition for the Homeless). In addition to this, 40-61 percent of Pacific Island women in Hawaii will experience domestic violence, according the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Honolulu's location also makes it a prime port for sex trafficking through the U.S. and Asia.
Healing Arts is also partnering with shelters and organizations nearby to help support girls and women in coming to art therapy in a safe space, by providing transportation to and from events, the materials for events, and the opportunity to build relationships through the program.
Healing Arts’ strategy is a “multi-layered approach,” starting with Healing Arts projects, followed later by a Bible study, then a support group, and finally attending church on a regular basis. The goal is that through this healing ministry, ladies will also find Christ – the ultimate healer. All such participation would be optional.
When she and her 8-year-old son moved to Wahiawa, she established the ministry there. Art can be used to bring emotional healing through creativity. Some studies have shown that participating in creative activities such as painting, dancing and music stimulates the body’s own natural healing processes, reduces anxiety and depression, and calms the mind.
“If we are created in the image of a creative God, we are creative. It may be through words, through art, really anything. We want people to learn of their creative ability through Christ,”
Greentree said.
The program is reaching out to girls and women who come out of sex trafficking, domestic violence, rape and prostitution. Many of these women are homeless, as one third of homelessness includes domestic violence (according to ALEA Bridge and The National Coalition for the Homeless). In addition to this, 40-61 percent of Pacific Island women in Hawaii will experience domestic violence, according the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Honolulu's location also makes it a prime port for sex trafficking through the U.S. and Asia.
Healing Arts is also partnering with shelters and organizations nearby to help support girls and women in coming to art therapy in a safe space, by providing transportation to and from events, the materials for events, and the opportunity to build relationships through the program.
Healing Arts’ strategy is a “multi-layered approach,” starting with Healing Arts projects, followed later by a Bible study, then a support group, and finally attending church on a regular basis. The goal is that through this healing ministry, ladies will also find Christ – the ultimate healer. All such participation would be optional.
Working together
Wahiawa Nazarene church’s reach into the community has been extended even further by the short-term assistance of Work & Witness teams. Wahiawa Community has previously been a site at which mission teams have helped to expand the building facilities, as well as served the community alongside the congregation. In the last five years, three teams have served, and four more are planning visits in 2017. Workers to assist the Healing Arts program are needed, as well as workers for outreach to other places on the island. By partnering with the local church, Work & Witness teams have the opportunity to make a significant impact in a short amount of time. As new ministries are picking up momentum, more people to love the community alongside Wahiawa Community are needed, along with prayers and financial support.
Miller hopes that what his church is doing can be adapted or even replicated by other churches in other communities.
“I want other churches to know that they can do it [outreach ministry], too. It is not about me, and I want models to be made that can go other places,” Miller said.
For more information about Wahiawa church’s ministries or to donate, go to: http://nazkine.com/
*Full name omitted for privacy reasons.
Wahiawa Nazarene church’s reach into the community has been extended even further by the short-term assistance of Work & Witness teams. Wahiawa Community has previously been a site at which mission teams have helped to expand the building facilities, as well as served the community alongside the congregation. In the last five years, three teams have served, and four more are planning visits in 2017. Workers to assist the Healing Arts program are needed, as well as workers for outreach to other places on the island. By partnering with the local church, Work & Witness teams have the opportunity to make a significant impact in a short amount of time. As new ministries are picking up momentum, more people to love the community alongside Wahiawa Community are needed, along with prayers and financial support.
Miller hopes that what his church is doing can be adapted or even replicated by other churches in other communities.
“I want other churches to know that they can do it [outreach ministry], too. It is not about me, and I want models to be made that can go other places,” Miller said.
For more information about Wahiawa church’s ministries or to donate, go to: http://nazkine.com/
*Full name omitted for privacy reasons.
Lenexa, Kansas
P&B USA: America Saves Week good time to think about retirement planning
Pensions and Benefits USA is joining with its partner, Fidelity Investments, to encourage ministers and church boards to set aside more money for retirement through the Nazarene 403(b) Retirement Savings Account Plan during America Saves Week, February 27 through March 3.
Nearly 1,700 organizations participate in this annual emphasis to promote good savings behavior. It also provides a time for individuals to assess how well they are doing in saving for the future.
Investing for retirement — even in small amounts — can impact the quality of life after an active career, and ministers have an excellent opportunity to do this and receive tax advantages through the Nazarene 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan.
“There is no minimum limit on the amount participants may contribute to our retirement savings plan with Fidelity Investments,” said Don Walter, director of Pensions and Benefits USA. “Like their counterparts in other careers, young ministers often think they have little to invest for retirement, so they don’t, but the power of compounding interest over time can turn a little into a lot.”
Fidelity Investments is sponsoring daily webcasts during America Saves Week to help educate retirement savers. Additionally, America Saves Week emphasizes a variety of topics on gaining financial wellness, from creating emergency funds and the elimination of debt, to saving for a home or college. Learn more here.[Pensions and Benefits USA]
Pensions and Benefits USA is joining with its partner, Fidelity Investments, to encourage ministers and church boards to set aside more money for retirement through the Nazarene 403(b) Retirement Savings Account Plan during America Saves Week, February 27 through March 3.
Nearly 1,700 organizations participate in this annual emphasis to promote good savings behavior. It also provides a time for individuals to assess how well they are doing in saving for the future.
Investing for retirement — even in small amounts — can impact the quality of life after an active career, and ministers have an excellent opportunity to do this and receive tax advantages through the Nazarene 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan.
“There is no minimum limit on the amount participants may contribute to our retirement savings plan with Fidelity Investments,” said Don Walter, director of Pensions and Benefits USA. “Like their counterparts in other careers, young ministers often think they have little to invest for retirement, so they don’t, but the power of compounding interest over time can turn a little into a lot.”
Fidelity Investments is sponsoring daily webcasts during America Saves Week to help educate retirement savers. Additionally, America Saves Week emphasizes a variety of topics on gaining financial wellness, from creating emergency funds and the elimination of debt, to saving for a home or college. Learn more here.[Pensions and Benefits USA]
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Mount Vernon, Ohio
Mount Vernon, Ohio
MVNU appoints vice president for enrollment managementMount Vernon Nazarene University President Henry W. Spaulding II announced the appointment of James Smith as vice president for Enrollment Management, which will take effect March 1.
“James has become a key partner in our enrollment strategy,” Spaulding said. “I look forward to expanding the partnership with this appointment.”
Previously, Smith served as director of Undergraduate Admissions and Student Recruitment (2008-2013), assistant vice president of Enrollment Management (2013-2015), and associate vice president for Enrollment Management (2015 to present).
Outside of his work at MVNU, Smith is recognized for his expertise in enrollment management. He serves on the Ohio College Credit Plus Advisory Committee, Ohio Association for College Admissions Counseling (Executive Board), Executive Board of the ACT, ACT Research Council, Ohio Private College Admissions Directors Committee, Chairperson, and Chair of the Nazarene Enrollment Officers Network.
Smith graduated from MVNU with a Bachelor of Arts in religion and youth ministry and has a Master of Arts in education ministry from Huntington University.[Mount Vernon Nazarene University]
“James has become a key partner in our enrollment strategy,” Spaulding said. “I look forward to expanding the partnership with this appointment.”
Previously, Smith served as director of Undergraduate Admissions and Student Recruitment (2008-2013), assistant vice president of Enrollment Management (2013-2015), and associate vice president for Enrollment Management (2015 to present).
Outside of his work at MVNU, Smith is recognized for his expertise in enrollment management. He serves on the Ohio College Credit Plus Advisory Committee, Ohio Association for College Admissions Counseling (Executive Board), Executive Board of the ACT, ACT Research Council, Ohio Private College Admissions Directors Committee, Chairperson, and Chair of the Nazarene Enrollment Officers Network.
Smith graduated from MVNU with a Bachelor of Arts in religion and youth ministry and has a Master of Arts in education ministry from Huntington University.[Mount Vernon Nazarene University]
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Bethany, Oklahoma
Bethany, Oklahoma
SNU welcomes new School of Theology and Ministry chairSouthern Nazarene University announced the appointment of Jim Fitzgerald as chair of the School of Theology and Ministry, effective July 1. Fitzgerald will assume the role held by Hal Cauthron since 1995.
Fitzgerald currently serves as pastor of Trinity Church of the Nazarene in Duncanville, Texas, a role he has held since 2001. He is a graduate of Olivet Nazarene University and Nazarene Theological Seminary. Fitzgerald also holds a Doctor of Philosophy from Vanderbilt University where his areas of study included homiletics and American church history.
In addition to his current assignment, he has served in ministry in Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Missouri. He was ordained in 1991. He is married to Liz (Powers), and they have three daughters.
The Southern Nazarene University School of Theology and Ministry prepares students for lifelong ministry with practical and theological tools to support their career. The program integrates ministry practice through some internships within local Nazarene congregations in the region. Graduates finish the degree to be certified for ordination as an elder in the Church of the Nazarene.
Department professors hold a broad range of ministry experiences including senior pastors, pastoral staff, urban ministry directors, missionaries, and theological educators. All hold doctoral degrees and are engaged in research and writing projects as well as ongoing ministry involvement[Southern Nazarene University]
Fitzgerald currently serves as pastor of Trinity Church of the Nazarene in Duncanville, Texas, a role he has held since 2001. He is a graduate of Olivet Nazarene University and Nazarene Theological Seminary. Fitzgerald also holds a Doctor of Philosophy from Vanderbilt University where his areas of study included homiletics and American church history.
In addition to his current assignment, he has served in ministry in Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Missouri. He was ordained in 1991. He is married to Liz (Powers), and they have three daughters.
The Southern Nazarene University School of Theology and Ministry prepares students for lifelong ministry with practical and theological tools to support their career. The program integrates ministry practice through some internships within local Nazarene congregations in the region. Graduates finish the degree to be certified for ordination as an elder in the Church of the Nazarene.
Department professors hold a broad range of ministry experiences including senior pastors, pastoral staff, urban ministry directors, missionaries, and theological educators. All hold doctoral degrees and are engaged in research and writing projects as well as ongoing ministry involvement[Southern Nazarene University]
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In MemoriamThe following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received 20-24 February 2017.
Gerald Bohall Sr., 86, of Midlothian, Virginia, passed away 20 February. He was a retired minister, serving in Arkansas, Germany, and Virginia. He is survived by his wife, Doris Bohall.
Dewayne Burton, 69, of Jasper, Alabama, passed away 20 February. He was a retired minister, serving in Alabama. He is survived by his wife, Linda Burton.
Freeman Hamrick, 91, of Grottoes, Virginia, passed away 19 February. He was a retired minister, serving in Tennessee, Alaska, West Virginia, and Virginia. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Hamrick.
Charlotte (Wayman) Hennen, 88, of Albion, Pennsylvania, passed away 18 February. She was the widow of retired minister Donald Hennen, who served in Pennsylvania. Donald Hennen passed away in 1991.
M. Neal Kellam, 68, of Virginia, Illinois, passed away 17 February. He was a retired minister, serving in Virginia, Illinois, and Ohio. He is survived by his wife, Nancy (Stremlau) Kellam.
Gladys Porter, 83, of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, passed away 19 February. She was the wife of retired minister Leslie Porter, who served in the United Kingdom, Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario.
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]
In MemoriamThe following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received 20-24 February 2017.
Gerald Bohall Sr., 86, of Midlothian, Virginia, passed away 20 February. He was a retired minister, serving in Arkansas, Germany, and Virginia. He is survived by his wife, Doris Bohall.
Dewayne Burton, 69, of Jasper, Alabama, passed away 20 February. He was a retired minister, serving in Alabama. He is survived by his wife, Linda Burton.
Freeman Hamrick, 91, of Grottoes, Virginia, passed away 19 February. He was a retired minister, serving in Tennessee, Alaska, West Virginia, and Virginia. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Hamrick.
Charlotte (Wayman) Hennen, 88, of Albion, Pennsylvania, passed away 18 February. She was the widow of retired minister Donald Hennen, who served in Pennsylvania. Donald Hennen passed away in 1991.
M. Neal Kellam, 68, of Virginia, Illinois, passed away 17 February. He was a retired minister, serving in Virginia, Illinois, and Ohio. He is survived by his wife, Nancy (Stremlau) Kellam.
Gladys Porter, 83, of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, passed away 19 February. She was the wife of retired minister Leslie Porter, who served in the United Kingdom, Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario.
For previous editions of In Memoriam, see the "Passings" section by clicking here.
Note: Please join us in prayer for the families who have lost loved ones. Click on names for full stories, funeral information, local online obituaries, and/or guest books (if available). To submit an entry of a minister or church leader, send to news@nazarene.org.[Compiled by NCN News]
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Human Resources
Human Resources
GMC employment opportunities
Stories Volume 1 - 2017 now available
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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 USA
Description: 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 USA
Description: 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.
Software Developer (Full time)
Information Technology
Description: Members of the software development team are primarily responsible for facilitating the ministry of the Global Ministry Center through the analysis, design, implementation, and support of software solutions.
Spanish Translation Specialist (Full time)
Nazarene Communications/Global Nazarene Publications
Description: This position is will serve as the in-house Spanish translator for Web pages and digital content for a growing global digital audience. Additionally, this person will provide editorial assistance for Global Nazarene Publications, including both print and digital content, along with other duties as assigned.
Technology Specialist (Full time)
Pensions & Benefits USA
Description: 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.
Tour/Hospitality Coordinator (Full time)
Business Center
Description: This position will be the primary contact and coordinator for Tours and Caterings. Correspondence, scheduling, GMC kitchen oversight, mail center, and front desk receptionist back-up will also be responsibilities of this position. Other duties include tasks in the Business Center as assigned.
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
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 USA
Description: 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 USA
Description: 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.
Software Developer (Full time)
Information Technology
Description: Members of the software development team are primarily responsible for facilitating the ministry of the Global Ministry Center through the analysis, design, implementation, and support of software solutions.
Spanish Translation Specialist (Full time)
Nazarene Communications/Global Nazarene Publications
Description: This position is will serve as the in-house Spanish translator for Web pages and digital content for a growing global digital audience. Additionally, this person will provide editorial assistance for Global Nazarene Publications, including both print and digital content, along with other duties as assigned.
Technology Specialist (Full time)
Pensions & Benefits USA
Description: 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.
Tour/Hospitality Coordinator (Full time)
Business Center
Description: This position will be the primary contact and coordinator for Tours and Caterings. Correspondence, scheduling, GMC kitchen oversight, mail center, and front desk receptionist back-up will also be responsibilities of this position. Other duties include tasks in the Business Center as assigned.
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
Stories Volume 1 - 2017 now available
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Home
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