Join Us In Prayer For The Asia-Pacific Region
Please Pray- Cholera Outbreaks Reported in Areas in PH! Please Pray- Cholera Outbreaks Reported in Areas in PH!
Philippines: Please pray for Central Visayas district, as local news agencies have reported Cholera outbreaks in the provinces of Cebu and Bohol.
More than 50 people were hospitalized in Bohol last week, while more than 100 people have been affected in Cebu.
We are praying for the protection of our Nazarene families along with those to whom they are ministering, as well as for the rapid recovery of those who have already fallen ill to the bacteria.
Your prayers are greatly appreciated.
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NYI Leader in PNG Injured in Attempted Car Jacking ***Update
NYI Leader in PNG Injured in Attempted Car Jacking – Prayer Needed ***Update
NYI Leader in PNG Injured in Attempted Car Jacking ***Update
NYI Leader in PNG Injured in Attempted Car Jacking – Prayer Needed ***Update
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea: Prayer has been requested for an NYI Leader, Allen Haunje, as he is recovering in the hospital from wounds received from robbers in an attempted car jacking. We praise the Lord that he was taken directly to a hospital where he underwent a 5 hour surgery to repair the damage. Please pray not only for physical healing, but emotional healing as well.
Melanesia South Pacific NYI Coordinator Daniel Latu writes:
“I am calling on all youth to stand with us in praying continuously for God’s complete healing over Allan’s life, that the peace of God that surpasses all understanding would rest on Allan, his wife, children and family and forgiveness on those who wronged him. In essence we’re believing God for a setup in this setback. Genesis 50:20 – "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
***Update 3 March 2017***
Allen’s mother sent in an update that they had to amputate his left leg below the knee. She continues to give God praise for the strength to accept this and thanks everyone for the continued prayers for her son and family. She went on to quote Romans 8:28 All things work for good to those that love you and that are called according to his purpose . Saying may God’s will be done.
Please keep Allen and his whole family in your prayers as he makes the necessary adjustments mentally as well as physically. That his heart would remain soft and not become hardened.
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Passports of Missionaries Stolen ***Update
Passports of Missionaries Stolen ***Update
Andy and Judy Bennet (on right) with John and Linda Seaman (on left)
Kudjip, Papua New Guinea: The passports of missionaries Andy and Judy Bennett have been stolen along with a laptop belonging to the mission at Kudjip, Papua New Guinea. Andy says, “Occasionally thieves here have been known to contact the owner of stolen property and offer its return for a “reward.”
Pray for the Bennetts who had recently received new passports and now will have to start the entire process over. Pray also that the person who stole the passports and laptop will be impressed to return what they took and that good will come out of the incident.
So far they have not been returned and they are now in the process of obtaining new ones. Please pray that the new passports will be ready in time for their scheduled travel on March 21.
from Prayer Mobilization Line
***Update 3 March 2017***
Judy writes:
No news on the passports. All the paperwork is submitted. Andy’s should be ready next week. My Canadian will be longer! We’re praying it will be ready so I can travel with Andy. So nothing yet. I do praise the Lord for the peace he’s given me about this situation.
Please continue to pray with them that both passports will arrive in time for the scheduled travel! God hears and answers!
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Pray for WMC A-P Team Member Featured in "Stories"!
WMC A-P Team Member Featured in ‘Stories’!
Manila, Philippines: The Church of the Nazarene recently released the first volume of 2017’s ‘Stories.’ This volume is particularly special for World Mission Communication Asia-Pacific (WMC-AP), as one of the featured stories is on our very own Enoch Tee!
Melanesia South Pacific NYI Coordinator Daniel Latu writes:
“I am calling on all youth to stand with us in praying continuously for God’s complete healing over Allan’s life, that the peace of God that surpasses all understanding would rest on Allan, his wife, children and family and forgiveness on those who wronged him. In essence we’re believing God for a setup in this setback. Genesis 50:20 – "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
***Update 3 March 2017***
Allen’s mother sent in an update that they had to amputate his left leg below the knee. She continues to give God praise for the strength to accept this and thanks everyone for the continued prayers for her son and family. She went on to quote Romans 8:28 All things work for good to those that love you and that are called according to his purpose . Saying may God’s will be done.
Please keep Allen and his whole family in your prayers as he makes the necessary adjustments mentally as well as physically. That his heart would remain soft and not become hardened.
-------
Passports of Missionaries Stolen ***Update
Passports of Missionaries Stolen ***Update
Andy and Judy Bennet (on right) with John and Linda Seaman (on left)
Kudjip, Papua New Guinea: The passports of missionaries Andy and Judy Bennett have been stolen along with a laptop belonging to the mission at Kudjip, Papua New Guinea. Andy says, “Occasionally thieves here have been known to contact the owner of stolen property and offer its return for a “reward.”
Pray for the Bennetts who had recently received new passports and now will have to start the entire process over. Pray also that the person who stole the passports and laptop will be impressed to return what they took and that good will come out of the incident.
So far they have not been returned and they are now in the process of obtaining new ones. Please pray that the new passports will be ready in time for their scheduled travel on March 21.
from Prayer Mobilization Line
***Update 3 March 2017***
Judy writes:
No news on the passports. All the paperwork is submitted. Andy’s should be ready next week. My Canadian will be longer! We’re praying it will be ready so I can travel with Andy. So nothing yet. I do praise the Lord for the peace he’s given me about this situation.
Please continue to pray with them that both passports will arrive in time for the scheduled travel! God hears and answers!
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Pray for WMC A-P Team Member Featured in "Stories"!
WMC A-P Team Member Featured in ‘Stories’!
Manila, Philippines: The Church of the Nazarene recently released the first volume of 2017’s ‘Stories.’ This volume is particularly special for World Mission Communication Asia-Pacific (WMC-AP), as one of the featured stories is on our very own Enoch Tee!
In case you missed it: Stories Volume 1- 2017 Now Available!
Enoch is WMC-AP’s talented graphic artist, who also helps out in New Media projects from time to time. Office work keeps him busy, but on weekends his time is spent teaching art to kids in the informal settlements of Payatas, Quezon City.
Enoch did not have a smooth-sailing life growing up and he turned to drugs and bad company. Find out how he found God and then how God eventually led him to a mission assignment in the Philippines!
Please include Enoch in your prayers as he fulfills the mission that God has for him. He is making a significant impact in the lives of many to whom he is ministering. Pray that more lives will be touched through Enoch’s creativity and talent. May he remain steadfast in his faith in the Lord, whatever spiritual battles might come his way.
View, download, subscribe to Stories! Click here!
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Prayers for a Family's Move to PNG ***PRAISE UPDATE***
Prayers for a Family’s Move to PNG ***UPDATE***
Papua New Guinea: Please pray for the timely processing of papers to allow a new Nazarene doctor family to move to Kudjip Nazarene Hospital in Papua New Guinea. (PNG)Learn more about Kudjip Nazarene Hospital here.
The Nazarene Hospital in the Highlands has served the people of PNG since 1967. The dedicated hospital staff ministers to nearly 60,000 outpatients each year with over 6,000 admissions.
May God’s perfect timing be at work for the family as they respond to His call to ministry.
***UPDATE 23 February 2017***
Your prayers have been heard and God’s perfect timing has come.
Time for Takeoff
Please continue to pray as this family heads to PNG and the ministry that God has for them there working in the hospital.
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**PRAYER REQUEST UPDATE for the parents of Dr. Jim and Kathy Radcliffe
Update on the Radcliffes’ Prayer Requests – Please Continue to Pray!
Papua New Guinea: A few weeks ago, we received prayer requests from Jim & Kathy Radcliffe.
Jim’s father, David, and Kathy’s mother, Garnet Beam, are both undergoing chemotherapy.Read: Prayer Requested for Father of Missionary Doctor Also : Please Pray for Mother of PNG Missionary
We received this most recent update from Jim:
“We are leaving Feb. 14 to go back to see our folks.
Kathy’s mom, Garnet, is recovering from her first chemo treatment side effects. Her next treatment date is Feb. 22. She remains in good spirits and hopes to attend church this Sunday.
Rev. David Radcliffe has needed to be hospitalized with possible pneumonia and other complications of his cancer and treatments and for his weakened condition. He is still being evaluated there in Mount Vernon.
Thanks for continued prayers.”
Your prayers mean so much to the Beams and Radcliffes. May God’s healing hand touch Garnet & Rev. David, and may the families recognize the peace and comfort from the Lord during these challenging times.
***Update 3 March 2017***
Jim writes:
” Thanks for your prayers for the parents of Jim and Kathy Radcliffe. Rev. David Radcliffe (Jim’s dad) remains in a skilled nursing facility in Mount Vernon Ohio but his chemotherapy for lymphoma is on hold due to weakness and some other factors. Mrs. Garnet Beam (Kathy’s mother) is having significant side effects from her chemotherapy but is still at home. Jim and Kathy along with their daughter, Lydia, are returning to PNG to finish their term of service there. Please pray for family caregivers of their parents to have strength and grace in this time. Jim’s mom is also changing to an independent living center at this time. Jim, Kathy and Lydia are grateful for this time with their loved ones in USA.”
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Regional Prayer Requests Page
Prayer Request and Update on Dr. John Seaman
You Can Always Find Current Prayer Requests and Praises on the NMI Prayer Mobilization Line
Retiring Missionaries Recognized at 94th General Board
Asia-Pacific: The Church of the Nazarene's Global Mission office was honored to recognize the following retiring missionaries during the final meeting of the 94th session of the General Board in Overland Park, Kansas, U.S.A.
The missionaries were presented with a sculpture as a token of thanks. Global Mission, under the direction of Dr. Verne Ward III, would like to express its deep love and appreciation to all four individuals for their many years of selfless dedication to God, the church, and to all of those whose lives have been impacted by their ministry. Together, they have given more than 98 faithful years of service to God through the Church of the Nazarene.
The Asia-Pacific Region is truly grateful for their contributions in making Kingdom impact!
Retiring Missionaries Recognized at 94th General Board
Asia-Pacific: The Church of the Nazarene’s Global Mission office was pleased to announce the following retiring missionaries during the final meeting of the 94th Session of the General Board in Overland Park, Kansas.
The missionaries were presented with a sculpture as a token of thanks. Global Mission, under the direction of Verne Ward III, would like to express its deep love and appreciation to all four individuals for their many years of selfless dedication to God, the church, and all of those whose lives have been impacted by their ministry. Together, they have given more than 98 faithful years of service to God through the Church of the Nazarene.
Enoch is WMC-AP’s talented graphic artist, who also helps out in New Media projects from time to time. Office work keeps him busy, but on weekends his time is spent teaching art to kids in the informal settlements of Payatas, Quezon City.
Enoch did not have a smooth-sailing life growing up and he turned to drugs and bad company. Find out how he found God and then how God eventually led him to a mission assignment in the Philippines!
Please include Enoch in your prayers as he fulfills the mission that God has for him. He is making a significant impact in the lives of many to whom he is ministering. Pray that more lives will be touched through Enoch’s creativity and talent. May he remain steadfast in his faith in the Lord, whatever spiritual battles might come his way.
Prayers for a Family's Move to PNG ***PRAISE UPDATE***
Prayers for a Family’s Move to PNG ***UPDATE***
Papua New Guinea: Please pray for the timely processing of papers to allow a new Nazarene doctor family to move to Kudjip Nazarene Hospital in Papua New Guinea. (PNG)Learn more about Kudjip Nazarene Hospital here.
The Nazarene Hospital in the Highlands has served the people of PNG since 1967. The dedicated hospital staff ministers to nearly 60,000 outpatients each year with over 6,000 admissions.
May God’s perfect timing be at work for the family as they respond to His call to ministry.
***UPDATE 23 February 2017***
Your prayers have been heard and God’s perfect timing has come.
Time for Takeoff
Please continue to pray as this family heads to PNG and the ministry that God has for them there working in the hospital.
-------
**PRAYER REQUEST UPDATE for the parents of Dr. Jim and Kathy Radcliffe
Update on the Radcliffes’ Prayer Requests – Please Continue to Pray!
Papua New Guinea: A few weeks ago, we received prayer requests from Jim & Kathy Radcliffe.
Jim’s father, David, and Kathy’s mother, Garnet Beam, are both undergoing chemotherapy.Read: Prayer Requested for Father of Missionary Doctor Also : Please Pray for Mother of PNG Missionary
We received this most recent update from Jim:
“We are leaving Feb. 14 to go back to see our folks.
Kathy’s mom, Garnet, is recovering from her first chemo treatment side effects. Her next treatment date is Feb. 22. She remains in good spirits and hopes to attend church this Sunday.
Rev. David Radcliffe has needed to be hospitalized with possible pneumonia and other complications of his cancer and treatments and for his weakened condition. He is still being evaluated there in Mount Vernon.
Thanks for continued prayers.”
Your prayers mean so much to the Beams and Radcliffes. May God’s healing hand touch Garnet & Rev. David, and may the families recognize the peace and comfort from the Lord during these challenging times.
***Update 3 March 2017***
Jim writes:
” Thanks for your prayers for the parents of Jim and Kathy Radcliffe. Rev. David Radcliffe (Jim’s dad) remains in a skilled nursing facility in Mount Vernon Ohio but his chemotherapy for lymphoma is on hold due to weakness and some other factors. Mrs. Garnet Beam (Kathy’s mother) is having significant side effects from her chemotherapy but is still at home. Jim and Kathy along with their daughter, Lydia, are returning to PNG to finish their term of service there. Please pray for family caregivers of their parents to have strength and grace in this time. Jim’s mom is also changing to an independent living center at this time. Jim, Kathy and Lydia are grateful for this time with their loved ones in USA.”
-------
Regional Prayer Requests Page
Prayer Request and Update on Dr. John Seaman
You Can Always Find Current Prayer Requests and Praises on the NMI Prayer Mobilization Line
Retiring Missionaries Recognized at 94th General Board
Asia-Pacific: The Church of the Nazarene's Global Mission office was honored to recognize the following retiring missionaries during the final meeting of the 94th session of the General Board in Overland Park, Kansas, U.S.A.
The missionaries were presented with a sculpture as a token of thanks. Global Mission, under the direction of Dr. Verne Ward III, would like to express its deep love and appreciation to all four individuals for their many years of selfless dedication to God, the church, and to all of those whose lives have been impacted by their ministry. Together, they have given more than 98 faithful years of service to God through the Church of the Nazarene.
The Asia-Pacific Region is truly grateful for their contributions in making Kingdom impact!
Retiring Missionaries Recognized at 94th General Board
Asia-Pacific: The Church of the Nazarene’s Global Mission office was pleased to announce the following retiring missionaries during the final meeting of the 94th Session of the General Board in Overland Park, Kansas.
The missionaries were presented with a sculpture as a token of thanks. Global Mission, under the direction of Verne Ward III, would like to express its deep love and appreciation to all four individuals for their many years of selfless dedication to God, the church, and all of those whose lives have been impacted by their ministry. Together, they have given more than 98 faithful years of service to God through the Church of the Nazarene.
Kent and Kathleen PeltonYears of service: 22
Locations: Papua New Guinea, Thailand
Life verses: “To God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27) and “She did what she could” (Mark 14:8).
Kent’s years were spent primarily in pastoral education, but he also served as district advisor, chancellor of Southeast Asia Nazarene Bible College, chairman of the Golden Path Nazarene Foundation, and district superintendent of the Northern Thai District. Kathleen also served at the college in finance.
Kent and Kathleen are grateful for all the prayer, partnership, and ongoing encouragement they have received throughout the years. While they were thousands of miles away from home, they had the constant realization that God was with them and their tremendous church family was praying for them. They ask for continuing prayers for the people of Thailand and for those whom God is calling to become the next servants in that great nation.
George and Nancy MillerYears of service: 27
Locations: Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Philippines
Life verses: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11) and “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).
George and Nancy were children’s pastors when they left for the mission field and finished their career as children’s ministers. In between, they served as educators at local high schools, South Pacific Nazarene Theological College, Philippines Nazarene College, and a school at a Church of the Nazarene.
They are grateful for the church’s excellent health insurance, for God’s provision, and for Nancy’s relatively good health so they could be able to serve for 27 years. They are also thankful that their four children and 12 grandchildren are all in church serving the Lord. All of them except the youngest three grandchildren have visited their grandparents on the field.
Follow the link to learn more about the Peltons and the Millers!
APNTS to Hold 7th Presidential Inauguration
Manila, Philippines: Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary (APNTS) will be holding the inauguration of Dr. Bruce Oldham, as its 7th president on March 27, 2017, at Cobb Worship Hall.Dr. Bruce, together with his wife Dr. Peggy, joined APNTS in November. They have already integrated into the APNTS community and faculty and are loved and respected by the student body.
Please continue to pray for Dr. Bruce as he seeks God's leading for maximum Kingdom impact through this new position where God has has placed him.
APNTS to Hold 7th Presidential Inauguration
Manila, Philippines: Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary (APNTS) will be holding the inauguration of Dr. Bruce Oldham, as its 7th president on March 27, 2017, at Cobb Worship Hall.Read: Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary Announces New PresidentDr. Bruce, together with his wife Dr. Peggy, joined APNTS in November. They have already integrated into the APNTS community and faculty and are loved and respected by the student body.
Please continue to pray for Dr. Bruce as he seeks God’s leading for maximum Kingdom impact through this new position where God has has placed him.
Click here to read the story on our website!
Please Pray - Cholera Outbreaks Reported in Areas of Philippines!
Philippines: Please pray for Central Visayas district, as local news agencies have reported Cholera outbreaks in the provinces of Cebu and Bohol.
More than 50 people were hospitalized in Bohol last week, while more than 100 people have been affected in Cebu.
We are praying for the protection of our Nazarene families along with those to whom they are ministering, as well as for the rapid recovery of those who have already fallen ill to the bacteria.
Your prayers are greatly appreciated. Follow the link to read the the story on our website!
Philippines: Please pray for Central Visayas district, as local news agencies have reported Cholera outbreaks in the provinces of Cebu and Bohol.
More than 50 people were hospitalized in Bohol last week, while more than 100 people have been affected in Cebu.
We are praying for the protection of our Nazarene families along with those to whom they are ministering, as well as for the rapid recovery of those who have already fallen ill to the bacteria.
Your prayers are greatly appreciated. Follow the link to read the the story on our website!
Things I Learned about Leadership from CancerAll of life is a classroom, so I guess I shouldn't have been surprised when suddenly mine included a cancer treatment center.I've taught leadership seminars to people around the world, but this time I'm on the other side of the podium, learning firsthand how to do hand-to-hand combat with the beast of cancer. And I'm rendered powerless since my port is hooked to an IV drip delivering liquid hope from a plastic bag.
The physical symptoms were anything but normal. And after a stunning bile duct cancer diagnosis and a thoughtful plan of attack, here, like everywhere, I began to look for transformational leadership lessons. I discovered at least six.
Dr. Stan Toler shares his thoughts about what he has learned since he was diagnosed with cancer and undergoing chemotherapy.
Things I Learned about Leadership from CancerLate last year, General Superintendent Emeritus Stan Toler was diagnosed with cancer.Read: Toler Undergoes Treatment for Cancer
Although this was devastating news, Dr. Toler made a choice to not waste time worrying. He has been reflecting on this journey and gleaning insights from it!
As he is undergoing chemotherapy treatment #10, he shares his thoughts about what he has learned over the past few months.
Nazarenes from all over the world are continuously praying for him and his recovery.
Things I Learned About Leadership from CancerAll of life is a classroom, so I guess I shouldn’t have been surprised when suddenly mine included a cancer treatment center.
I’ve taught leadership seminars to people around the world, but this time I’m on the other side of the podium, learning firsthand how to do hand-to-hand combat with the beast of cancer. And I’m rendered powerless since my port is hooked to an IV drip delivering liquid hope from a plastic bag.
The physical symptoms were anything but normal. And after a stunning bile duct cancer diagnosis and a thoughtful plan of attack, here, like everywhere, I began to look for transformational leadership lessons. I discovered at least six.
A positive attitude in times of change provides a stability.
At first, I felt as wobbly as a half-sawed tree on the steep side of a West Virginia mountain. Then the positive attitude I’ve practiced and taught kicked in. I knew that I couldn’t control what was happening around me, but I could control what was happening within me. That was the just the stability I needed.
Mutual respect and shared skills make teams effective.
I’ve written about Five-Star organizations and taught Five-Star Customer Service, but now I have a Five-Star medical team. Skilled. Efficient. Compassionate. Each has a unique skill set that compliments the other. And they share it respectfully, even including me in the process. I thank them–and I thank the leader who taught them how to be team players.
A personal faith and value system is a priceless component for facing the unknown.
Cancer brags but it can’t beat faith. God was and is in control. My faith in God conquered the fear of the unknown, even before I found a parking spot for my first chemo treatment. I was built for this situation. My parents had committed me to His plans before I took my first breath, and those plans aren’t about to unravel now.
The network you build in common times will support you in crisis times.
Years of traveling around the world introduced me to dear people who are now my support network–praying, wearing Team Toler bracelets, and texting or calling. I’m glad I made the leadership decision long ago to put people and their needs ahead of my plans, programs, or properties.
Difficulties are a journey, not a destination.
I don’t know what the next mile will hold, I just know there’ll be one. Cancer treatment takes a big chunk of my time, but it doesn’t own it. It is just a coordinate on the map of a longer journey. There’s no use moving my office furniture to this hospital unit. It’s just a stopover; it isn’t a destination.
Planning a way through is better than looking for a way out.
Would this situation be my first choice? No, but I’ve learned to be content with the floor plan given me rather than looking to add doors and windows. I’m here on an assignment, ready to get on with whatever God has next for me. Looking for a way out only puts a negativity glitch in a positive plan to get through. I’m making progress. To God be the glory!
I’m still claiming James 5:14-15:
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.”
Check out Dr. Toler's insightful reflections by following this link!
2017 Annual Report of the Board of General Superintendents
J. K. Warrick delivered the annual Board of General Superintendents' Report during the 94th Session of the General Board 26 February in Overland Park, Kansas, USA.
Warrick's report, titled "The Mission of the Holiness Message," was enthusiastically received by the members of the General Board, officers, Global Ministry Center directors and staff, Regional Directors, Nazarene Publishing House leaders, and guests.
2017 Annual Report of the Board of General Superintendents
J. K. Warrick delivered the annual Board of General Superintendents’ Report during the 94th Session of the General Board 26 February in Overland Park, Kansas, USA.
Warrick’s report, titled “The Mission of the Holiness Message,” was enthusiastically received by the members of the General Board, officers, Global Ministry Center directors and staff, regional directors, Nazarene Publishing House leaders, and guests.
To view a transcript of this report, click below:
English
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BOARD OF GENERAL SUPERINTENDENTS TO THE 94th GENERAL BOARD
CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE
Sunday, 26 February 2017
Overland Park, Kansas, United States
“The Mission of the Holiness Message”
INTRODUCTION
The Lord said to Moses, “Speak to the entire assembly of Israel and say to them: ‘Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy’” (Leviticus 19:1-2 NIV).
In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and on behalf of the Board of General Superintendents (BGS), I welcome you to the 94th General Board of the Church of the Nazarene and the presentation of this General Board Report.
It is hard to believe, but this is the fourth and final General Board Session of the 2013-2017 quadrennium.
Alice Walker says that “Time moves slowly but passes quickly.”
So,
Where has the time gone?
The years have slipped away. Every time you look around, There is a brand “new” day.
The old passes on— Making way for the new. The new becomes many, And the old becomes few. [1]
One year ago this week, the denomination made way for the new, doing something it has never done before—that is convene a General Board outside the USA. Nearly all of the previous 92 General Board Sessions took place in and around Kansas City, Missouri, USA.
Locating General Board in Ede, Netherlands, on the Eurasia Region, at the invitation of General Board member Robert Kegel was a historic experience. Perhaps it was a glimpse of the future?
The future to which I am referring is not just about location, although several Global Mission regions have now expressed interest in hosting a General Board. I am speaking about the way in which church leadership, General Board members, staff, and guests experience their time together.
A worthy goal: finding the right mix of prayer, general church business, discussion, fellowship, and cultural context in order to grow and develop as spiritual leaders of an international community of faith—all of this while convened for such short periods of time.
The presence of the Holy Spirit made it possible for participants in Ede to draw closer to the Lord in a tranquil environment. The Belmont Hotel became a brief respite from the responsibilities of assignments back home.
Nazarenes do like to “break bread” together. Perhaps the meal times were the best opportunities to become better acquainted, laugh, share life and ministry stories, as well as offer prayers of hope, blessing, and thanksgiving.
Sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and spreading scriptural holiness are foundational for making Christlike disciples in the nations. Let us never forget that this is why we meet—to focus on our reason to be: finding ways to be more fruitful in ministry and service to others. “Give of your best to the Master,” the song goes.
For nearly 11 decades, the church has held these values dearly. What Nazarenes believe is clarified and strengthened in community. Diminish or lose those values and we will not be the same church. While technology is helping us in many ways, General Board in Ede makes a case for something more than facetiming our way into the future.
As someone said, “A significant value of the Internet is a way to share information, but it is not a substitute for relational structure and accountability.”
As you might imagine, it was no small task to move General Board so far from the support provided by the Global Ministry Center. However, with God’s help, General Secretary David P. Wilson and his staff of Susan Metcalf, Elizabeth Kuhns, Diane Miller, and Shirley Marvin, in partnership with IT and others, made it happen.
We give thanks to God for traveling mercies and want to express our deep appreciation to this team for an outstanding effort on the General Board’s behalf.
It was, in my opinion, one of the best General Board sessions in my nearly 12 years in this office.
Appreciation
As we gather once again in Overland Park, Kansas, USA, we find the same quality of support from our general secretary, David Wilson, and staff.
We welcome Joy Hartke to the BGS office as administrative director and extend our thanks to her and the office staff for their diligent service to the general superintendents.
Special Note
There is one absent from General Board this year who was with us in the Netherlands— Michigan District Superintendent John Seaman. Within six months after General Board, Dr. Seaman was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He had surgery, followed by treatments from which he responded well under the conditions.
Please keep John and Linda Seaman, and their family, in your prayers for God’s complete healing.
NEW GENERAL TREASURER
In 2016 we welcomed Keith Cox as the denomination’s general treasurer. The General Board elected Keith on 30 June to serve as general treasurer and chief financial officer. That role is principally defined as “having custody of all funds belonging to the general interests of the Church of the Nazarene” (Manual 330.1).
The general treasurer is a member of the General Board and its Executive Committee.
Keith comes to this assignment with broad experience in banking in the USA. These experiences will serve the denomination well as he leads the Office of the General Treasurer.
He is a graduate of MidAmerica Nazarene University (B.A.) and Rockhurst University (M.B.A.).
While enjoying success in his chosen field, Keith and his wife, Julie, have faithfully engaged in ministry and service through their local church, Kansas City Nall Avenue, as well as JESUS Film Harvest Partners and Work & Witness. Keith has also served as a member of the Board of Trustees at MNU.
NEW CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER (CAO) The Board of General Superintendents announced that William Sawyer, vice president for Financial Services at TransUnion and senior pastor of Santa Ana, California, First Church of the Nazarene, would serve as chief administrative officer of the Global Ministry Center.
“The Mission of the Holiness Message”
INTRODUCTION
The Lord said to Moses, “Speak to the entire assembly of Israel and say to them: ‘Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy’” (Leviticus 19:1-2 NIV).
In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and on behalf of the Board of General Superintendents (BGS), I welcome you to the 94th General Board of the Church of the Nazarene and the presentation of this General Board Report.
It is hard to believe, but this is the fourth and final General Board Session of the 2013-2017 quadrennium.
Alice Walker says that “Time moves slowly but passes quickly.”
So,
Where has the time gone?
The years have slipped away. Every time you look around, There is a brand “new” day.
The old passes on— Making way for the new. The new becomes many, And the old becomes few. [1]
One year ago this week, the denomination made way for the new, doing something it has never done before—that is convene a General Board outside the USA. Nearly all of the previous 92 General Board Sessions took place in and around Kansas City, Missouri, USA.
Locating General Board in Ede, Netherlands, on the Eurasia Region, at the invitation of General Board member Robert Kegel was a historic experience. Perhaps it was a glimpse of the future?
The future to which I am referring is not just about location, although several Global Mission regions have now expressed interest in hosting a General Board. I am speaking about the way in which church leadership, General Board members, staff, and guests experience their time together.
A worthy goal: finding the right mix of prayer, general church business, discussion, fellowship, and cultural context in order to grow and develop as spiritual leaders of an international community of faith—all of this while convened for such short periods of time.
The presence of the Holy Spirit made it possible for participants in Ede to draw closer to the Lord in a tranquil environment. The Belmont Hotel became a brief respite from the responsibilities of assignments back home.
Nazarenes do like to “break bread” together. Perhaps the meal times were the best opportunities to become better acquainted, laugh, share life and ministry stories, as well as offer prayers of hope, blessing, and thanksgiving.
Sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and spreading scriptural holiness are foundational for making Christlike disciples in the nations. Let us never forget that this is why we meet—to focus on our reason to be: finding ways to be more fruitful in ministry and service to others. “Give of your best to the Master,” the song goes.
For nearly 11 decades, the church has held these values dearly. What Nazarenes believe is clarified and strengthened in community. Diminish or lose those values and we will not be the same church. While technology is helping us in many ways, General Board in Ede makes a case for something more than facetiming our way into the future.
As someone said, “A significant value of the Internet is a way to share information, but it is not a substitute for relational structure and accountability.”
As you might imagine, it was no small task to move General Board so far from the support provided by the Global Ministry Center. However, with God’s help, General Secretary David P. Wilson and his staff of Susan Metcalf, Elizabeth Kuhns, Diane Miller, and Shirley Marvin, in partnership with IT and others, made it happen.
We give thanks to God for traveling mercies and want to express our deep appreciation to this team for an outstanding effort on the General Board’s behalf.
It was, in my opinion, one of the best General Board sessions in my nearly 12 years in this office.
Appreciation
As we gather once again in Overland Park, Kansas, USA, we find the same quality of support from our general secretary, David Wilson, and staff.
We welcome Joy Hartke to the BGS office as administrative director and extend our thanks to her and the office staff for their diligent service to the general superintendents.
Special Note
There is one absent from General Board this year who was with us in the Netherlands— Michigan District Superintendent John Seaman. Within six months after General Board, Dr. Seaman was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He had surgery, followed by treatments from which he responded well under the conditions.
Please keep John and Linda Seaman, and their family, in your prayers for God’s complete healing.
NEW GENERAL TREASURER
In 2016 we welcomed Keith Cox as the denomination’s general treasurer. The General Board elected Keith on 30 June to serve as general treasurer and chief financial officer. That role is principally defined as “having custody of all funds belonging to the general interests of the Church of the Nazarene” (Manual 330.1).
The general treasurer is a member of the General Board and its Executive Committee.
Keith comes to this assignment with broad experience in banking in the USA. These experiences will serve the denomination well as he leads the Office of the General Treasurer.
He is a graduate of MidAmerica Nazarene University (B.A.) and Rockhurst University (M.B.A.).
While enjoying success in his chosen field, Keith and his wife, Julie, have faithfully engaged in ministry and service through their local church, Kansas City Nall Avenue, as well as JESUS Film Harvest Partners and Work & Witness. Keith has also served as a member of the Board of Trustees at MNU.
NEW CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER (CAO) The Board of General Superintendents announced that William Sawyer, vice president for Financial Services at TransUnion and senior pastor of Santa Ana, California, First Church of the Nazarene, would serve as chief administrative officer of the Global Ministry Center.
The CAO position, which is not a General Board office, was created in response to recommendations from the Nazarene Future Study Group and the Best Christian Workplaces Institute.
As CAO, Bill Sawyer provides on-site leadership, establishing direction for the Global Ministry Center in addition to overseeing various non-ecclesiastical, administrative tasks currently assigned to the BGS.
THE PURSUIT OF MISSION If Dr. Phineas F. Bresee, the first general superintendent of the “united church” (1908), were present this evening, he might remind us that “Denominational success is not our aim, but that souls may be saved and sanctified.”
However, as you read about Dr. Bresee, you find that he had great interest in knowing how the church was moving forward as an organized holiness movement, conserving and multiplying the fruits of evangelism.
A General Board preceding a General Assembly gives us the ability to examine not only the past year, but the 2013-2017 quadrennium as well. Here is an update on efforts by dedicated Nazarene pastors, laity, missionaries, Sunday school teachers, and others—some serving in daunting circumstances—to conserve and multiply those being saved and sanctified!
Annual Statistics
The 2016 report from the Office of the General Secretary shows the following: [2]
THE PURSUIT OF MISSION If Dr. Phineas F. Bresee, the first general superintendent of the “united church” (1908), were present this evening, he might remind us that “Denominational success is not our aim, but that souls may be saved and sanctified.”
However, as you read about Dr. Bresee, you find that he had great interest in knowing how the church was moving forward as an organized holiness movement, conserving and multiplying the fruits of evangelism.
A General Board preceding a General Assembly gives us the ability to examine not only the past year, but the 2013-2017 quadrennium as well. Here is an update on efforts by dedicated Nazarene pastors, laity, missionaries, Sunday school teachers, and others—some serving in daunting circumstances—to conserve and multiply those being saved and sanctified!
Annual Statistics
The 2016 report from the Office of the General Secretary shows the following: [2]
Ø 213,331 decisions for Christ (+1.95%) and 87,384 baptisms (-2.03%)
Ø 691 churches organized
Ø 30,574 churches worldwide (+2.10%), with 22,392 organized (+2.19%)
Ø 691 churches organized
Ø 30,574 churches worldwide (+2.10%), with 22,392 organized (+2.19%)
Ø 139,560 new Nazarenes (-2.46%)
Ø 1,245,818 in discipleship attendance (+2.89%)
Ø 1,503,872 (flat at 0.36%) average worship attendance Ø 2,471,553 (+1.24%) members in 159 world areas
Ø The International Board of Education reports 52 schools with a total enrollment of 51,555 students, providing education in more than 120 nations
Global Mission Regions
Our Nazarene Research Services provides the following synopsis of Global Mission regions:
2006-2016 trend lines
Languages used in primary worship services
Totals for the 2013-2017 quadrennium
4. A brief analysis of each region
Africa Region
The Africa Region reports 82 different languages are used in its primary worship services.
Ø 1,245,818 in discipleship attendance (+2.89%)
Ø 1,503,872 (flat at 0.36%) average worship attendance Ø 2,471,553 (+1.24%) members in 159 world areas
Ø The International Board of Education reports 52 schools with a total enrollment of 51,555 students, providing education in more than 120 nations
Global Mission Regions
Our Nazarene Research Services provides the following synopsis of Global Mission regions:
2006-2016 trend lines
Languages used in primary worship services
Totals for the 2013-2017 quadrennium
4. A brief analysis of each region
Africa Region
QUADRENNIAL OVERVIEW:
Ø 705 new churches
Ø 147,062 new Nazarenes
Ø US$916,951 given to WEF
Ø 170,768 profession of faith reported
Ø 705 new churches
Ø 147,062 new Nazarenes
Ø US$916,951 given to WEF
Ø 170,768 profession of faith reported
Ø 76,842 baptisms
Analysis: Nazarene membership growth is widespread in Africa, including new areas such as Benin and Togo, as well as established areas like Mozambique and South Africa.
Analysis: Nazarene membership growth is widespread in Africa, including new areas such as Benin and Togo, as well as established areas like Mozambique and South Africa.
Asia-Pacific Region 
The Asia-Pacific Region reports 28 different languages are used in its primary worship services.
QUADRENNIAL OVERVIEW:
Ø 144 new churches
Ø 27,241 new Nazarenes
Ø US$1,360,477 given to WEF
Ø 37,357 professions of faith reported
Ø 144 new churches
Ø 27,241 new Nazarenes
Ø US$1,360,477 given to WEF
Ø 37,357 professions of faith reported
Ø 12,039 baptisms
Analysis: Asia-Pacific’s largest increases are concentrated in Papua New Guinea and the Philippines, though several smaller areas are also doing well. As discipleship enrollment has been emphasized, attendance has also increased.
Eurasia Region The Eurasia Region reports 46 different languages are used in its primary worship services.
Analysis: Asia-Pacific’s largest increases are concentrated in Papua New Guinea and the Philippines, though several smaller areas are also doing well. As discipleship enrollment has been emphasized, attendance has also increased.
Eurasia Region The Eurasia Region reports 46 different languages are used in its primary worship services.
QUADRENNIAL OVERVIEW:
Ø 2,286 new churches
Ø 107,194 new Nazarenes
Ø US$1,366,992 given to WEF
Ø 179,275 professions of faith reported
Ø 2,286 new churches
Ø 107,194 new Nazarenes
Ø US$1,366,992 given to WEF
Ø 179,275 professions of faith reported
Ø 96,761 baptisms
Analysis: Eurasia’s membership growth has been concentrated in Bangladesh, India, and the rest of the Indian subcontinent. Discipleship is growing, while membership gains are being consolidated.
Mesoamerica Region The Mesoamerica Region reports 13 different languages are used in its primary worship services.
Analysis: Eurasia’s membership growth has been concentrated in Bangladesh, India, and the rest of the Indian subcontinent. Discipleship is growing, while membership gains are being consolidated.
Mesoamerica Region The Mesoamerica Region reports 13 different languages are used in its primary worship services.
QUADRENNIAL OVERVIEW:
Ø 305 new churches
Ø 93,189 new Nazarenes
Ø US$1,710,337 given to WEF
Ø 110,369 professions of faith reported
Ø 305 new churches
Ø 93,189 new Nazarenes
Ø US$1,710,337 given to WEF
Ø 110,369 professions of faith reported
Ø 52,132 baptisms
Analysis: Mesoamerica membership growth is largest in the established areas of Haiti, Guatemala, and Mexico, with good percentage gains in newer areas like Suriname and Aruba. Discipleship attendance is growing.
South America Region
The South America Region reports six different languages are used in its primary worship services.
QUADRENNIAL OVERVIEW: Ø 201 new churches
Ø 80,712 new Nazarenes
Ø US$1,041,951 given to WEF
Ø 139,254 professions of faith reported
Analysis: Mesoamerica membership growth is largest in the established areas of Haiti, Guatemala, and Mexico, with good percentage gains in newer areas like Suriname and Aruba. Discipleship attendance is growing.
South America Region
The South America Region reports six different languages are used in its primary worship services.
QUADRENNIAL OVERVIEW: Ø 201 new churches
Ø 80,712 new Nazarenes
Ø US$1,041,951 given to WEF
Ø 139,254 professions of faith reported
Ø 45,592 baptisms
Analysis: South America has seen decadal membership growth in every country, doubling in Brazil, Colombia, and Ecuador. Discipleship participation continues to grow. USA/Canada Region
The USA/Canada Region reports 33 different languages are used in its primary worship services.
Analysis: South America has seen decadal membership growth in every country, doubling in Brazil, Colombia, and Ecuador. Discipleship participation continues to grow. USA/Canada Region
The USA/Canada Region reports 33 different languages are used in its primary worship services.
QUADRENNIAL OVERVIEW: Ø 543 new churches
Ø 104,217 new Nazarenes
Ø US$146,573,497 given to WEF
Ø 203,379 professions of faith reported
Ø 104,217 new Nazarenes
Ø US$146,573,497 given to WEF
Ø 203,379 professions of faith reported
Ø 78,253 baptisms
Analysis: The USA/Canada membership growth has been most pronounced in cross-cultural efforts. Hispanic, multicultural, and Haitian groups have all grown by thousands of members this decade. Discipleship efforts mirror the declining membership numbers.
Vision 2020
At General Board in Ede, the Board of General Superintendents humbly restated global Vision 2020 Faith Projections. With God’s help, we yearn to see global membership and attendance increase by one million with 20,000 new churches by 2020, to the glory of God.
• 3.5 million Nazarenes
• 2.5 million in worship and discipleship attendance
Analysis: The USA/Canada membership growth has been most pronounced in cross-cultural efforts. Hispanic, multicultural, and Haitian groups have all grown by thousands of members this decade. Discipleship efforts mirror the declining membership numbers.
Vision 2020
At General Board in Ede, the Board of General Superintendents humbly restated global Vision 2020 Faith Projections. With God’s help, we yearn to see global membership and attendance increase by one million with 20,000 new churches by 2020, to the glory of God.
• 3.5 million Nazarenes
• 2.5 million in worship and discipleship attendance
• 50,000 churches
Reaching new people for Christ must be both deep—seeing lives and communities transformed by the grace of God—and wide—going where the church is not yet.
Jesus said, “Don't you have a saying, 'It's still four months until harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest” (John 4:35 NIV).
The Board of General Superintendents celebrates the goals from pastors and congregations—but more importantly the souls they represent.
For the sake of the Kingdom, Christlike disciples can do no less than to “seek and save that which is lost.”
Missionaries
The denomination reported 700 missionaries and their 364 children were deployed from 50 world areas, including 253 Global Serve/Mission Corps volunteers. There were also 285 short- term volunteers and 9,208 Work & Witness team members. All categories of missionaries receive some level of support from the World Evangelism Fund (WEF) through the Church of the Nazarene. Work & Witness teams benefit from the global system of mission and structure in place, also made possible by WEF.
Fifteen candidates will be presented for missionary appointment on Monday evening, and two couples, George and Nancy Miller along with Kent and Kathleen Pelton, will be honored for their many years of service as they move into retirement.
FUNDING THE MISSION
Nazarenes have always believed in the mission to make Christlike disciples in the nations and have supported that mission with their prayers, engagement, and giving.
In 2016:
• $38.2 million was given to the World Evangelism Fund
Reaching new people for Christ must be both deep—seeing lives and communities transformed by the grace of God—and wide—going where the church is not yet.
Jesus said, “Don't you have a saying, 'It's still four months until harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest” (John 4:35 NIV).
The Board of General Superintendents celebrates the goals from pastors and congregations—but more importantly the souls they represent.
For the sake of the Kingdom, Christlike disciples can do no less than to “seek and save that which is lost.”
Missionaries
The denomination reported 700 missionaries and their 364 children were deployed from 50 world areas, including 253 Global Serve/Mission Corps volunteers. There were also 285 short- term volunteers and 9,208 Work & Witness team members. All categories of missionaries receive some level of support from the World Evangelism Fund (WEF) through the Church of the Nazarene. Work & Witness teams benefit from the global system of mission and structure in place, also made possible by WEF.
Fifteen candidates will be presented for missionary appointment on Monday evening, and two couples, George and Nancy Miller along with Kent and Kathleen Pelton, will be honored for their many years of service as they move into retirement.
FUNDING THE MISSION
Nazarenes have always believed in the mission to make Christlike disciples in the nations and have supported that mission with their prayers, engagement, and giving.
In 2016:
• $38.2 million was given to the World Evangelism Fund
• $31.2 million was given for Approved Mission Specials.
This is a total of $69.4 million! [3]
On behalf of those whose lives have been transformed by the gospel, the Board of General Superintendents expresses appreciation to all who give—many sacrificially—making it possible to share the gospel and spread scriptural holiness throughout the nations.
It is troubling, however, that approximately 75% of churches worldwide report only “some” or “no” WEF giving—leaving one-quarter of churches with 5.5% or more giving to WEF.
If the church is to “go where it is not yet,” our local churches around the world must be committed to the financial support of that mission. Every people group that has been blessed by the gospel is called by God to make certain that all other people groups will hear the gospel as well.
We call upon our local pastors to enlist the lay leaders in their respective congregations to lead those congregations to become generous, not only in prayer and participation, but also in the grace of giving to God’s mission as expressed in the Church of the Nazarene. 2 Corinthians 8:7:
But just as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness, and in your love for us—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.
Use of Mission Gifts
In fulfilling the mission, it is not just raising funds, but accounting for where they go and how they are used. In 2016, 85.5% of mission gifts went to five categories of “field ministries” and 14.5% were allocated over two categories of “support and delivery.” The distributions are shown on the screen and will be included in the General Board Report when it is posted online.
Nazarene Foundation
The Church of the Nazarene Foundation, established in 2004, had its best year ever in 2016. Funds under management grew by an astounding 75%.
At the end of the year, the Foundation facilitated what is believed to be the largest single gift in the church’s history—$43 million. In the month of December alone, the Foundation experienced a total increase in funds under management of nearly $50 million. The church's global ministries will benefit from this God-inspired generosity in the days ahead.
Thanks to those Nazarenes who have a long-term vision of their stewardship, and to Foundation President Ken Roney and his outstanding staff.
2017 GENERAL ASSEMBLY INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA, USA
In 119 days, David A. Busic, as chair of the Board of General Superintendents, will officially open the 29th General Assembly for the Church of the Nazarene in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. The date is Sunday, 25 June 2017 and the place is the Indiana Convention Center. General Conventions and other programs begin 21 June.
Permit me to brief you on some important agenda items:
Delegate Orientation
A delegate orientation will be held Saturday, 24 June. This one-hour session is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. in Halls A-B-C. A separate commissioning of delegates will take place on Monday, 26 June.
This mid-morning timeframe allows delegates to attend college/university breakfasts and luncheons that day. A program schedule will be posted on all Nazarene media outlets 1 March.
Future of the General Superintendency At the 2013 General Assembly, the BGS committed to further examining the office of the general superintendency. Much time and effort has gone into this extended study during the past four years. The BGS will present findings and recommendations in the delegate orientation for further consideration.
Mission Funding
Time was blocked on Monday morning of General Board in 2015 and 2016 to discuss Funding the Mission and to hear from representatives across the church. Feedback from the breakout groups provided insights in understanding the context and complexities surrounding the church’s current funding model.
The caution from the study is not to look for a final solution when it comes to funding the mission. In fact, the World Evangelism Fund has evolved over more than 10 decades and will likely continue doing so. As giving patterns and trends continue to change, the church must be willing to adapt to these realities and, perhaps, to give consideration to cultural adaptations around the world.
The BGS will present a Mission Funding Report to General Board on Monday on what was learned and where we go next. Delegates to General Assembly will also be informed of the next steps.
Clergy Restoration (JUD-818)
For many years, the BGS and others have been concerned about our processes regarding clergy restoration. To that end Stan Rodes, administrative director of Clergy Development, has worked to reframe our response to the needs of clergy who find themselves under discipline, to the needs of their families, and to the needs of the congregations impacted.
There are several legislative proposals that will be presented to the General Assembly. Our thanks to Stan for his heart of compassion for Nazarene clergy and the outstanding, comprehensive work on this monumental project.
The Covenant of Christian Conduct—Human Sexuality and Marriage (CA-703)
The call of God in Romans 12:2 is that we would no longer be conformed to the pattern of the world culture, but to be transformed by the renewing of the mind by the Holy Spirit. We find ourselves living with new cultural realities that challenge our thinking and our behavior regarding human sexuality.
As a result, a Covenant of Christian Conduct Study Group was appointed by the BGS.
The study group’s report was received with a final version unanimously approved by the BGS.
It is an outstanding work by a global committee with representatives from every region. We are indebted to them for this report that embodies the very best of who we are in light of the Word of God. It is clear, concise, and comprehensive.
I am of the opinion that the report will take its place alongside the “Pastoral Perspective on Homosexuality,” which the BGS commissioned in 2011, in its usefulness to our local churches and other institutions. It is important that we be clear about where God’s Word calls us to stand on these issues. There can be no ambiguity as to who we are. This document will enable us to clearly delineate our position according to the Word of God as we lovingly and redemptively engage the cultures in which we live.
This document will be presented to General Assembly delegates as follows:
The 2017 General Assembly Reference Committee met to work on all regular resolutions on 31 January. The General Secretary’s Office is now reorganizing the documents (as per the committee’s actions) with the intent to release those resolution documents electronically—in all five of our official languages—by the end of April.
Workshops will be offered at General Assembly on the topic of human sexuality from a biblical perspective.
The topic will also be addressed at the delegate orientation on Saturday, 24 June to prepare delegates in advance of the voting.
A position paper, developed by a specially assigned global committee and unanimously approved by the current BGS, will be read prior to the presentation of the legislation on the General Assembly floor.
In the judgment of the Board of General Superintendents, it would be best if the General Assembly agrees to an up or down vote on this work. To edit the document in its first reading does not do justice to the careful work of this committee. If, after four years, the General Assembly should desire further editing, that would always be the prerogative of such a gathering.
It is the opinion of the Board of General Superintendents that the Articles of Faith Committee and Covenant of Christian Conduct Study Group have fulfilled the requirements of Manual paragraph 27.
SUMMARY
We give thanks to God for His blessings over the past four years. They have not been without their challenges, but He has faithfully led us through the difficult times. The church has celebrated many wonderful moments of spiritual victory by being His “witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8 NIV).
HOLINESS FOREVERMORE I began this report with a word from Leviticus . . .
“‘Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy.’”
This verse and a host of others in Scripture make it clear that God has called us to be a holy people. That suggests there is a message of holiness that must be preached and a life of holiness that must be lived.
Phineas Bresee pled for “a holiness worthy of our religion.” That plea burns in my heart today.
Signs of Life
I like signs. I look for signs everywhere. A few of my favorites:
• When was the last time you did something for the first time?
That one inspired me to buy a pair of roller blades. I have had them on a few times (first time), stood up in them (first time), and even spun the wheels with my hand (first time) . . . but have not yet taken my first skate! Patty insists on additional life insurance before I take that first skate!
Here is another:
• Don’t put the key to your happiness in someone else’s pocket.
That’s really good advice . . . makes me check my pockets every now and then. Recently I found one that continues to speak to me:
• When you feel like giving up, think about why you started! It is the last few words that stay with me:
“. . . think about why you started.”
In this 94th General Board of the Church of the Nazarene, I suggest that we “think about why we started.”
Remembering and reflecting is an important part of the spiritual journey. It is only as we understand the passion and purpose of those who have gone before us that we can go forward with that same passion and purpose.
Remembering and reflecting is a biblical practice.
In Leviticus 23, God called His people to set aside and celebrate certain feasts, or sacred assemblies, in which they would celebrate the “why they started” of their existence:
In the Manual, we say of ourselves: [4]
“The Church of the Nazarene, from its beginnings, has confessed itself to be a branch of the ‘one, holy, universal, and apostolic’ church and has sought to be faithful to it. It confesses as its own the history of the people of God recorded in the Old and New Testaments, and that same history as it has extended from the days of the apostles to our own.
“This Christian faith has been mediated to Nazarenes through historical religious currents and particularly through the Wesleyan revival of the 18th century.
“In the 19th century a renewed emphasis on Christian holiness began in the Eastern United States and spread throughout the nation . . . The central figure of the movement was Phoebe Palmer of New York City, leader of the Tuesday Meeting for the Promotion of Holiness, at which Methodist bishops, educators, and other clergy joined the original group of women in seeking holiness.
“In the 1890s a new wave of independent holiness entities came into being. These included independent churches, urban missions, rescue homes, and missionary and evangelistic associations. Some of the people involved in these organizations yearned for union into a national holiness church. Out of that impulse the present-day Church of the Nazarene was born.”
Dr. Bresee wrote:
“On the third Sabbath of October, 1895, the work of organization was begun. At the morning service eighty-six men and women stood together and plighted to God and each other their fidelity in the organization and carrying on of the work of the Church of the Nazarene, with the declared purpose of preaching holiness, and carrying the gospel to the poor.
“. . . there is a very great need everywhere of this church—not narrow, nor partisan, nor sectarian, but in a spirit of love as broad as the gospel—to preach holiness, and organize the results of our ministry for aggressive and continuous work.
“No mission work at this time is so essential for the redemption of this world from sin, as the preaching and establishing of holiness in America. Every holiness center established, is the springing forth from the skies of rivers of life to men.”
Think about why we started.
. . . the declared purpose of preaching holiness, and carrying the gospel to the poor.
. . . to preach holiness, and organize the results of our ministry for aggressive and continuous work.
. . . No mission work at this time is so essential for the redemption of this world from sin, as the preaching and establishing of holiness . . .
For several quadrennia, the foreword to our Manual has stated:
“The primary objective of the Church of the Nazarene is to advance God’s kingdom by the
preservation and propagation of Christian holiness as set forth in the Scriptures.”
The Church of the Nazarene was birthed as a holiness movement. God’s message of holiness and God’s mission to make Christlike disciples is embraced by more than 30,000 churches in 159 world areas.
We are, to quote Tom Nees, former director of the USA/Canada Mission Office, a uniquely message-driven church—the message of scriptural holiness. Our mandate to make Christlike disciples flows naturally from the fullness of the indwelling Holy Spirit. We are a holiness church with the message of life transformation entrusted to us.
Our second core value is “We are holiness.”
At the recent district assembly in Botswana, our good people were joyfully singing:
1. There’s a blessed and triumphant song; Holiness forevermore!
It is sung by the mighty, blood-washed throng: Holiness forevermore!
2. From this standard we will not depart: Holiness forevermore!
‘Tis the song of the purified in heart: Holiness forevermore!
3. Holiness forevermore! Holiness forevermore! We will sing it, shout it, preach it, and live it: Holiness forevermore!”
Oh, how they sang! Exuberantly! Joyfully!
As I wiped tears from my eyes, I found myself praying that we would continue to be a people who celebrate this call to scriptural holiness.
To that end, we plead, that with renewed passion, we will
• Sing it! May our music be that of victory and conquest. May our songs testify of such victory in Jesus Christ. Let ours be the songs of the blood-washed; those delivered from the power of sin and death!
• Shout it! Let our churches once again ring out with the amens of the redeemed and transformed . . . the joyful shouts of those whose hearts have been cleansed from all sin! (1 John 1:7)
Preach it! With conviction, with clarity, with the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Let the word go forth from our pulpits that there is a cleansing of the heart from all sin that empowers one to love God with all one’s heart, mind, soul, and spirit, and to love one’s neighbor as we love ourselves! It is not simply a theological tradition that we embrace and preach—it is the message of Scripture.
Live it! While in the Netherlands for a global theology conference a few years ago, I was in a small group that included Dr. Paul Bassett, retired professor at Nazarene Theological Seminary.
In our conversations, he lamented that today we often speak about the doctrine of entire sanctification, while in our early years as a movement we spoke of the doctrine and experience of entire sanctification. My prayer is that we will have a revival of holiness preaching that will result in many entering into the experience of holiness and bearing witness to this experience by the way they live and order their lives.
Holiness is not just a work of grace; it is the indwelling presence of the Living God through His Holy Spirit. It is His presence that constitutes our holiness. It is, as Scripture says it in Colossians 1:27, “. . . Christ in you, the hope of glory.”
Holiness is the result of both crisis and process.
John Oswalt declares that “we are made holy just as we are converted: by grace through faith. But in order for that grace to become operative, there must come a moment when we surrender to God in faith for the crucifixion of our self-centered will.
“John Wesley labeled the result of this moment ‘entire sanctification’ in order to distinguish it from the progressive sanctification which continues both before and after this moment.” [5]
Think about why we started.
Dr. Bresee responded to criticism of the early Nazarenes:
“It is an accusation that with us every meeting is a holiness meeting. We do not deny it.” Think about why we started.
In 1 Thessalonians 4:3, 7; 5:23-24, we learn that holiness . . .
This is a total of $69.4 million! [3]
On behalf of those whose lives have been transformed by the gospel, the Board of General Superintendents expresses appreciation to all who give—many sacrificially—making it possible to share the gospel and spread scriptural holiness throughout the nations.
It is troubling, however, that approximately 75% of churches worldwide report only “some” or “no” WEF giving—leaving one-quarter of churches with 5.5% or more giving to WEF.
If the church is to “go where it is not yet,” our local churches around the world must be committed to the financial support of that mission. Every people group that has been blessed by the gospel is called by God to make certain that all other people groups will hear the gospel as well.
We call upon our local pastors to enlist the lay leaders in their respective congregations to lead those congregations to become generous, not only in prayer and participation, but also in the grace of giving to God’s mission as expressed in the Church of the Nazarene. 2 Corinthians 8:7:
But just as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness, and in your love for us—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.
Use of Mission Gifts
In fulfilling the mission, it is not just raising funds, but accounting for where they go and how they are used. In 2016, 85.5% of mission gifts went to five categories of “field ministries” and 14.5% were allocated over two categories of “support and delivery.” The distributions are shown on the screen and will be included in the General Board Report when it is posted online.
Nazarene Foundation
The Church of the Nazarene Foundation, established in 2004, had its best year ever in 2016. Funds under management grew by an astounding 75%.
At the end of the year, the Foundation facilitated what is believed to be the largest single gift in the church’s history—$43 million. In the month of December alone, the Foundation experienced a total increase in funds under management of nearly $50 million. The church's global ministries will benefit from this God-inspired generosity in the days ahead.
Thanks to those Nazarenes who have a long-term vision of their stewardship, and to Foundation President Ken Roney and his outstanding staff.
2017 GENERAL ASSEMBLY INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA, USA
In 119 days, David A. Busic, as chair of the Board of General Superintendents, will officially open the 29th General Assembly for the Church of the Nazarene in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. The date is Sunday, 25 June 2017 and the place is the Indiana Convention Center. General Conventions and other programs begin 21 June.
Permit me to brief you on some important agenda items:
Delegate Orientation
A delegate orientation will be held Saturday, 24 June. This one-hour session is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. in Halls A-B-C. A separate commissioning of delegates will take place on Monday, 26 June.
This mid-morning timeframe allows delegates to attend college/university breakfasts and luncheons that day. A program schedule will be posted on all Nazarene media outlets 1 March.
Future of the General Superintendency At the 2013 General Assembly, the BGS committed to further examining the office of the general superintendency. Much time and effort has gone into this extended study during the past four years. The BGS will present findings and recommendations in the delegate orientation for further consideration.
Mission Funding
Time was blocked on Monday morning of General Board in 2015 and 2016 to discuss Funding the Mission and to hear from representatives across the church. Feedback from the breakout groups provided insights in understanding the context and complexities surrounding the church’s current funding model.
The caution from the study is not to look for a final solution when it comes to funding the mission. In fact, the World Evangelism Fund has evolved over more than 10 decades and will likely continue doing so. As giving patterns and trends continue to change, the church must be willing to adapt to these realities and, perhaps, to give consideration to cultural adaptations around the world.
The BGS will present a Mission Funding Report to General Board on Monday on what was learned and where we go next. Delegates to General Assembly will also be informed of the next steps.
Clergy Restoration (JUD-818)
For many years, the BGS and others have been concerned about our processes regarding clergy restoration. To that end Stan Rodes, administrative director of Clergy Development, has worked to reframe our response to the needs of clergy who find themselves under discipline, to the needs of their families, and to the needs of the congregations impacted.
There are several legislative proposals that will be presented to the General Assembly. Our thanks to Stan for his heart of compassion for Nazarene clergy and the outstanding, comprehensive work on this monumental project.
The Covenant of Christian Conduct—Human Sexuality and Marriage (CA-703)
The call of God in Romans 12:2 is that we would no longer be conformed to the pattern of the world culture, but to be transformed by the renewing of the mind by the Holy Spirit. We find ourselves living with new cultural realities that challenge our thinking and our behavior regarding human sexuality.
As a result, a Covenant of Christian Conduct Study Group was appointed by the BGS.
The study group’s report was received with a final version unanimously approved by the BGS.
It is an outstanding work by a global committee with representatives from every region. We are indebted to them for this report that embodies the very best of who we are in light of the Word of God. It is clear, concise, and comprehensive.
I am of the opinion that the report will take its place alongside the “Pastoral Perspective on Homosexuality,” which the BGS commissioned in 2011, in its usefulness to our local churches and other institutions. It is important that we be clear about where God’s Word calls us to stand on these issues. There can be no ambiguity as to who we are. This document will enable us to clearly delineate our position according to the Word of God as we lovingly and redemptively engage the cultures in which we live.
This document will be presented to General Assembly delegates as follows:
The 2017 General Assembly Reference Committee met to work on all regular resolutions on 31 January. The General Secretary’s Office is now reorganizing the documents (as per the committee’s actions) with the intent to release those resolution documents electronically—in all five of our official languages—by the end of April.
Workshops will be offered at General Assembly on the topic of human sexuality from a biblical perspective.
The topic will also be addressed at the delegate orientation on Saturday, 24 June to prepare delegates in advance of the voting.
A position paper, developed by a specially assigned global committee and unanimously approved by the current BGS, will be read prior to the presentation of the legislation on the General Assembly floor.
In the judgment of the Board of General Superintendents, it would be best if the General Assembly agrees to an up or down vote on this work. To edit the document in its first reading does not do justice to the careful work of this committee. If, after four years, the General Assembly should desire further editing, that would always be the prerogative of such a gathering.
It is the opinion of the Board of General Superintendents that the Articles of Faith Committee and Covenant of Christian Conduct Study Group have fulfilled the requirements of Manual paragraph 27.
SUMMARY
We give thanks to God for His blessings over the past four years. They have not been without their challenges, but He has faithfully led us through the difficult times. The church has celebrated many wonderful moments of spiritual victory by being His “witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8 NIV).
HOLINESS FOREVERMORE I began this report with a word from Leviticus . . .
“‘Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy.’”
This verse and a host of others in Scripture make it clear that God has called us to be a holy people. That suggests there is a message of holiness that must be preached and a life of holiness that must be lived.
Phineas Bresee pled for “a holiness worthy of our religion.” That plea burns in my heart today.
Signs of Life
I like signs. I look for signs everywhere. A few of my favorites:
• When was the last time you did something for the first time?
That one inspired me to buy a pair of roller blades. I have had them on a few times (first time), stood up in them (first time), and even spun the wheels with my hand (first time) . . . but have not yet taken my first skate! Patty insists on additional life insurance before I take that first skate!
Here is another:
• Don’t put the key to your happiness in someone else’s pocket.
That’s really good advice . . . makes me check my pockets every now and then. Recently I found one that continues to speak to me:
• When you feel like giving up, think about why you started! It is the last few words that stay with me:
“. . . think about why you started.”
In this 94th General Board of the Church of the Nazarene, I suggest that we “think about why we started.”
Remembering and reflecting is an important part of the spiritual journey. It is only as we understand the passion and purpose of those who have gone before us that we can go forward with that same passion and purpose.
Remembering and reflecting is a biblical practice.
In Leviticus 23, God called His people to set aside and celebrate certain feasts, or sacred assemblies, in which they would celebrate the “why they started” of their existence:
- The Passover
- The Feast of Unleavened Bread
- The Feast of First Fruits
- The Feast of Weeks (Pentecost)
- The Feast of Trumpets
- The Day of Atonement
- The Feast of Tabernacles
In the Manual, we say of ourselves: [4]
“The Church of the Nazarene, from its beginnings, has confessed itself to be a branch of the ‘one, holy, universal, and apostolic’ church and has sought to be faithful to it. It confesses as its own the history of the people of God recorded in the Old and New Testaments, and that same history as it has extended from the days of the apostles to our own.
“This Christian faith has been mediated to Nazarenes through historical religious currents and particularly through the Wesleyan revival of the 18th century.
“In the 19th century a renewed emphasis on Christian holiness began in the Eastern United States and spread throughout the nation . . . The central figure of the movement was Phoebe Palmer of New York City, leader of the Tuesday Meeting for the Promotion of Holiness, at which Methodist bishops, educators, and other clergy joined the original group of women in seeking holiness.
“In the 1890s a new wave of independent holiness entities came into being. These included independent churches, urban missions, rescue homes, and missionary and evangelistic associations. Some of the people involved in these organizations yearned for union into a national holiness church. Out of that impulse the present-day Church of the Nazarene was born.”
Dr. Bresee wrote:
“On the third Sabbath of October, 1895, the work of organization was begun. At the morning service eighty-six men and women stood together and plighted to God and each other their fidelity in the organization and carrying on of the work of the Church of the Nazarene, with the declared purpose of preaching holiness, and carrying the gospel to the poor.
“. . . there is a very great need everywhere of this church—not narrow, nor partisan, nor sectarian, but in a spirit of love as broad as the gospel—to preach holiness, and organize the results of our ministry for aggressive and continuous work.
“No mission work at this time is so essential for the redemption of this world from sin, as the preaching and establishing of holiness in America. Every holiness center established, is the springing forth from the skies of rivers of life to men.”
Think about why we started.
. . . the declared purpose of preaching holiness, and carrying the gospel to the poor.
. . . to preach holiness, and organize the results of our ministry for aggressive and continuous work.
. . . No mission work at this time is so essential for the redemption of this world from sin, as the preaching and establishing of holiness . . .
For several quadrennia, the foreword to our Manual has stated:
“The primary objective of the Church of the Nazarene is to advance God’s kingdom by the
preservation and propagation of Christian holiness as set forth in the Scriptures.”
The Church of the Nazarene was birthed as a holiness movement. God’s message of holiness and God’s mission to make Christlike disciples is embraced by more than 30,000 churches in 159 world areas.
We are, to quote Tom Nees, former director of the USA/Canada Mission Office, a uniquely message-driven church—the message of scriptural holiness. Our mandate to make Christlike disciples flows naturally from the fullness of the indwelling Holy Spirit. We are a holiness church with the message of life transformation entrusted to us.
Our second core value is “We are holiness.”
At the recent district assembly in Botswana, our good people were joyfully singing:
1. There’s a blessed and triumphant song; Holiness forevermore!
It is sung by the mighty, blood-washed throng: Holiness forevermore!
2. From this standard we will not depart: Holiness forevermore!
‘Tis the song of the purified in heart: Holiness forevermore!
3. Holiness forevermore! Holiness forevermore! We will sing it, shout it, preach it, and live it: Holiness forevermore!”
Oh, how they sang! Exuberantly! Joyfully!
As I wiped tears from my eyes, I found myself praying that we would continue to be a people who celebrate this call to scriptural holiness.
To that end, we plead, that with renewed passion, we will
• Sing it! May our music be that of victory and conquest. May our songs testify of such victory in Jesus Christ. Let ours be the songs of the blood-washed; those delivered from the power of sin and death!
• Shout it! Let our churches once again ring out with the amens of the redeemed and transformed . . . the joyful shouts of those whose hearts have been cleansed from all sin! (1 John 1:7)
Preach it! With conviction, with clarity, with the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Let the word go forth from our pulpits that there is a cleansing of the heart from all sin that empowers one to love God with all one’s heart, mind, soul, and spirit, and to love one’s neighbor as we love ourselves! It is not simply a theological tradition that we embrace and preach—it is the message of Scripture.
Live it! While in the Netherlands for a global theology conference a few years ago, I was in a small group that included Dr. Paul Bassett, retired professor at Nazarene Theological Seminary.
In our conversations, he lamented that today we often speak about the doctrine of entire sanctification, while in our early years as a movement we spoke of the doctrine and experience of entire sanctification. My prayer is that we will have a revival of holiness preaching that will result in many entering into the experience of holiness and bearing witness to this experience by the way they live and order their lives.
Holiness is not just a work of grace; it is the indwelling presence of the Living God through His Holy Spirit. It is His presence that constitutes our holiness. It is, as Scripture says it in Colossians 1:27, “. . . Christ in you, the hope of glory.”
Holiness is the result of both crisis and process.
John Oswalt declares that “we are made holy just as we are converted: by grace through faith. But in order for that grace to become operative, there must come a moment when we surrender to God in faith for the crucifixion of our self-centered will.
“John Wesley labeled the result of this moment ‘entire sanctification’ in order to distinguish it from the progressive sanctification which continues both before and after this moment.” [5]
Think about why we started.
Dr. Bresee responded to criticism of the early Nazarenes:
“It is an accusation that with us every meeting is a holiness meeting. We do not deny it.” Think about why we started.
In 1 Thessalonians 4:3, 7; 5:23-24, we learn that holiness . . .
• is the will of God.
“It is God’s will that you should be sanctified . . .”
“It is God’s will that you should be sanctified . . .”
• is the call of God.
“For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life.”
“For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life.”
• is the provision of God.
“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.”
Think about why we started.
It is a generally accepted principle that every organization faces the challenge of organizational and missional drift.
Alister McGrath observed: “The price of expansion is an increasing diffuseness, and potentially a loss of identity and vision.” 6 However, the cost of standing still is slow death.
Our challenge is ever to make the main thing the main thing—that the message of life transformation—holiness and Christlikeness—remains the message!
This is not a plea for “the good old days,” but it is a plea that we will inspire and equip a new generation to take up the mantle to live and preach the message of heart holiness and life transformation!
We plead for the Church of the Nazarene to lift up Jesus Christ and make the message of scriptural holiness—life transformation—our watchword and song for this and future generations!
The world is changed by Spirit-filled men and women; their legacies never die.
More than 100 years ago there was a young man fully surrendered to God and filled with the Holy Spirit. He enrolled in a holiness college in Peniel, Texas, USA. He often found refuge in a small study room—really a closet—where he studied and prayed by the light of a small oil lamp.
He studied. He learned. He sought wisdom from godly people and from God himself. One night he “prayed through”—found peace in his mind and spirit before the Lord—about God’s call in his life.
He would leave school. He would leave home—the familiar, the safe, the known, the predictable. Led by the Holy Spirit, he would go to a faraway place to labor for the lost and broken. With no promise of support from any organized religious group, he raised a little money from his fellow students and set sail for that faraway place.
He labored among a people he did not know and who did not know him. They were strange to him; he was equally strange to them! Years passed by. Infant children were born, three of whom died and were buried in that faraway place. It seemed no progress was being made as the years continued to slip away. Finally, friendships were established and doors of ministry opened to that young man and his supportive wife.
The people in his homeland learned of his work and prayed for him. He rallied their hearts for other faraway places as he faithfully followed the call of God in his life. Many others would be inspired by the life of this young couple.
On 26 May 1926, he wrote a letter to General Superintendent H. F. Reynolds.
Piggs Peak, Swaziland
Rev. H. F. Reynolds 2923 Troost Ave
Kansas City, MO U. S. A.
Greetings in Jesus’ dear name from Africa.
Via Barberton, South Africa May 26, 1926
Just a note to let you know that we have had a King to visit our humble African home. He arrived Sunday morning May the 23rd. We readily recognized that He was not a King of an earthly Kingdom, in that He came through the unopened window and closed door. He came to take a precious little flower that bloomed in our midst; we bowed our heads in submission when Jesus stepped in and took to himself our darling little Charles Kent at ten minutes to two o’clock A.M. We prayed that he would be taken without a struggle and our prayer was answered as he had a very peaceful passing away. He was born September 19th, 1924 and died May 23rd, 1926. After daybreak we made a little box of sealing boards and Miss Robbinson took white cloth and beautified it. Miss Lovelace, Carpentar and Rixsie arrived from the boys school about eleven o’clock just in time for the Sabbath morning service and after this service the remains of our little darling was laid to rest under the Peniel trees to await the resurrection morn. We all dropped a few flowers in the grave and sang the Hymn “Just inside the Eastern gate”. We do not say that this is a part of the price we pay for Africa, for death visits every home; however, just after the passing of our precious baby we knelt not far from his little form and there rededicated ourselves for His service and for the healing of the world known as Africa.
Little Charles had never been very strong and suffered very much since about the 5th of January when we was smitten with Pneumonia; it was the Influenza that finally caused his death.
Will close for this time, we know you are praying for us and we thank you for these prayers continually.
Yours in His glad service, H. F. Schmelzenbach
It is the letter of a man entirely surrendered to the will of God. A holiness man. A sanctified man who, along with his wife, gave his life for the King of Kings.
So why did we start?
David A. Busic Gustavo A. Crocker Eugénio R. Duarte David W. Graves Jerry D. Porter
J. K. Warrick
Prepared and read by J. K. Warrick
bgs@nazarene.org
Footnotes
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한국어
Português
Click here to view the transcript of this report!
“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.”
Think about why we started.
It is a generally accepted principle that every organization faces the challenge of organizational and missional drift.
Alister McGrath observed: “The price of expansion is an increasing diffuseness, and potentially a loss of identity and vision.” 6 However, the cost of standing still is slow death.
Our challenge is ever to make the main thing the main thing—that the message of life transformation—holiness and Christlikeness—remains the message!
This is not a plea for “the good old days,” but it is a plea that we will inspire and equip a new generation to take up the mantle to live and preach the message of heart holiness and life transformation!
We plead for the Church of the Nazarene to lift up Jesus Christ and make the message of scriptural holiness—life transformation—our watchword and song for this and future generations!
The world is changed by Spirit-filled men and women; their legacies never die.
More than 100 years ago there was a young man fully surrendered to God and filled with the Holy Spirit. He enrolled in a holiness college in Peniel, Texas, USA. He often found refuge in a small study room—really a closet—where he studied and prayed by the light of a small oil lamp.
He studied. He learned. He sought wisdom from godly people and from God himself. One night he “prayed through”—found peace in his mind and spirit before the Lord—about God’s call in his life.
He would leave school. He would leave home—the familiar, the safe, the known, the predictable. Led by the Holy Spirit, he would go to a faraway place to labor for the lost and broken. With no promise of support from any organized religious group, he raised a little money from his fellow students and set sail for that faraway place.
He labored among a people he did not know and who did not know him. They were strange to him; he was equally strange to them! Years passed by. Infant children were born, three of whom died and were buried in that faraway place. It seemed no progress was being made as the years continued to slip away. Finally, friendships were established and doors of ministry opened to that young man and his supportive wife.
The people in his homeland learned of his work and prayed for him. He rallied their hearts for other faraway places as he faithfully followed the call of God in his life. Many others would be inspired by the life of this young couple.
On 26 May 1926, he wrote a letter to General Superintendent H. F. Reynolds.
Piggs Peak, Swaziland
Rev. H. F. Reynolds 2923 Troost Ave
Kansas City, MO U. S. A.
Greetings in Jesus’ dear name from Africa.
Via Barberton, South Africa May 26, 1926
Just a note to let you know that we have had a King to visit our humble African home. He arrived Sunday morning May the 23rd. We readily recognized that He was not a King of an earthly Kingdom, in that He came through the unopened window and closed door. He came to take a precious little flower that bloomed in our midst; we bowed our heads in submission when Jesus stepped in and took to himself our darling little Charles Kent at ten minutes to two o’clock A.M. We prayed that he would be taken without a struggle and our prayer was answered as he had a very peaceful passing away. He was born September 19th, 1924 and died May 23rd, 1926. After daybreak we made a little box of sealing boards and Miss Robbinson took white cloth and beautified it. Miss Lovelace, Carpentar and Rixsie arrived from the boys school about eleven o’clock just in time for the Sabbath morning service and after this service the remains of our little darling was laid to rest under the Peniel trees to await the resurrection morn. We all dropped a few flowers in the grave and sang the Hymn “Just inside the Eastern gate”. We do not say that this is a part of the price we pay for Africa, for death visits every home; however, just after the passing of our precious baby we knelt not far from his little form and there rededicated ourselves for His service and for the healing of the world known as Africa.
Little Charles had never been very strong and suffered very much since about the 5th of January when we was smitten with Pneumonia; it was the Influenza that finally caused his death.
Will close for this time, we know you are praying for us and we thank you for these prayers continually.
Yours in His glad service, H. F. Schmelzenbach
It is the letter of a man entirely surrendered to the will of God. A holiness man. A sanctified man who, along with his wife, gave his life for the King of Kings.
So why did we start?
- Why did Harmon and Lula Schmelzenbach give their lives for Africa?
- Why do pastors, evangelists, missionaries, and dedicated laypersons still answer the call to go, to serve?
- Why do Nazarenes pray and give generously and sacrificially?
Let us sing it!
Let us shout it!
Let us preach it!
Let us live it! Holiness forevermore.
Prayerfully and respectfully submitted, Board of General Superintendents David A. Busic Gustavo A. Crocker Eugénio R. Duarte David W. Graves Jerry D. Porter
J. K. Warrick
Prepared and read by J. K. Warrick
bgs@nazarene.org
Footnotes
- Walterrean Salley
- Annual Pastor’s Report, Office of the General Secretary
- General Treasurer’s Office cash receipts and APR use different methods of data collection.
- Manual “Historical Statement”
- “The Dangers of Holiness”—John Oswalt, Francis Asbury Society
- Evangelicalism & the Future of Christianity, Alister McGrath (IVP)
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Click here to view the transcript of this report!
Webinar- Be Holy as I am Holy: Old Testament Holiness in Light of ChristOften Christians think of God's call to be holy in the Old Testament as a call to legalism and the invitation to holiness in the New Testament as a call to experience the grace of Jesus Christ.
But is the call to holiness in the Old Testament simply based on keeping the Law (or Torah)? Is holiness of the Old Testament replaced by or is it completed in Jesus?
Dr. Daniels will explore how the ancient invitations to "be holy as God is holy" are still significant in the life of God's people today.
Follow the link to register!
World Mission Communications News Videos -
Now in 3 Language Versions!
Here are the headlines for this week's videos:
WMC News 128:
믿음과 자유, 페루에 물이 넘치다, 재봉사역으로 여성사역을 시작하다. 그리고 창조적 접근지역 선교에 동참할 기회가 생기다.
WMC News 128: Faith and Freedom, Flood in Peru, Sewing Connects Women, Opportunity to Serve in a Creative Access Area
WMC News 128:
Fe y libertad, inundaciones en Perú, Costura conecta mujeres, Oportunidad de servicio en Áreas de Acceso Creativo
We are working on fine tuning the process with the different language formats as well as shortening them some in the next editions! Don't forget to share the links with friends and family! Enjoy and be blessed with these inspirational stories!
BGS Invites Churches to Declare Jesus 'Lord of All' During Upcoming Easter Offering
To Nazarenes around the world:
Easter reminds us of the new life we enjoy as Christ's disciples and the future we anticipate as we anxiously await the eternal joy of living with Him forever. Jesus rose from the grave, and that changes everything. His resurrection validates our belief that Jesus is Lord of all!
Nazarenes around the world will celebrate the "Lord of All" in a few short weeks through the Easter Offering for the World Evangelism Fund (WEF). God has blessed the Church of the Nazarene for more than 100 years as we have shared the gospel globally. The impact has been incredible, but the potential for reaching more people with God's message of love and transformation is greater than it has ever been...
Click here to read the rest of the invitation!
Hiring English Teachers for Malaysia- INQUIRE NOW!
Malaysia: Dynamic Language Centre is accepting applications for full-time language teachers in their English language center in Penang, Malaysia.
The newly renovated center has been in operation for over 15 years. While they teach many languages, children's and adult English are their main focus.
If you are an experienced children's teacher, enjoy a wide mix of cultures from Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa, and are looking for a rewarding career- we have an opportunity for you!
Follow the link and see the qualifications, and how you can submit your application!
Links You Might Like! (More coming weekly)
Articles
Asia-Pacific Regional Communications
Now in 3 Language Versions!
Here are the headlines for this week's videos:
- Faith & Freedom
- Flood in Peru
- Sewing Connects
- Opportunity to Serve
- Photos linked to Youtube / Descriptions linked to Vimeo for easy download
WMC News 128:
믿음과 자유, 페루에 물이 넘치다, 재봉사역으로 여성사역을 시작하다. 그리고 창조적 접근지역 선교에 동참할 기회가 생기다.
WMC News 128: Faith and Freedom, Flood in Peru, Sewing Connects Women, Opportunity to Serve in a Creative Access Area
WMC News 128:
Fe y libertad, inundaciones en Perú, Costura conecta mujeres, Oportunidad de servicio en Áreas de Acceso Creativo
We are working on fine tuning the process with the different language formats as well as shortening them some in the next editions! Don't forget to share the links with friends and family! Enjoy and be blessed with these inspirational stories!
BGS Invites Churches to Declare Jesus 'Lord of All' During Upcoming Easter Offering
To Nazarenes around the world:
Easter reminds us of the new life we enjoy as Christ's disciples and the future we anticipate as we anxiously await the eternal joy of living with Him forever. Jesus rose from the grave, and that changes everything. His resurrection validates our belief that Jesus is Lord of all!
Nazarenes around the world will celebrate the "Lord of All" in a few short weeks through the Easter Offering for the World Evangelism Fund (WEF). God has blessed the Church of the Nazarene for more than 100 years as we have shared the gospel globally. The impact has been incredible, but the potential for reaching more people with God's message of love and transformation is greater than it has ever been...
Click here to read the rest of the invitation!
Hiring English Teachers for Malaysia- INQUIRE NOW!
Malaysia: Dynamic Language Centre is accepting applications for full-time language teachers in their English language center in Penang, Malaysia.
The newly renovated center has been in operation for over 15 years. While they teach many languages, children's and adult English are their main focus.
If you are an experienced children's teacher, enjoy a wide mix of cultures from Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa, and are looking for a rewarding career- we have an opportunity for you!
Follow the link and see the qualifications, and how you can submit your application!
Links You Might Like! (More coming weekly)
Articles
- VBS Ministry Teaches Armenia Children about God's Love, Career Options
- 2017 Nazarene Missionary Candidates
- Patricia Smith Remembered
- Where Worlds Meet- January 2017
- In Memoriam
- Scooter Rentals Available for General Assembly
- Districts Choose New Superintendents for 2017-2018
- P&B USA Encourages Pastors to Think about Retirement Planning
- They Said You Couldn't Plant Churches in the Aftermath of Haiti's Disasters
- Small Hawaii Church Making Big Waves in Struggling Community
- Nazarenes in the News
- Articles of Faith
- Engage Magazine
- General Assembly 2017
- Holiness Today
- Manual
- Mission Corps - Global Volunteer Mission Opportunities
- Nazarene.org (Official Global Site)
- Nazarene Essentials
- Nazarene Compassionate Ministries
- Nazarene Safe
- Nazarene Missions International
- Nazarene Youth International
- Preacher's Magazine
- Sunday School Discipleship Ministries
- Work and Witness
- JESUS Film Harvest Partners
- Visit us at our Asia-Pacific Regional Website!
Asia-Pacific Regional Communications
Ortigas Av Ext
Kaytikling, Taytay, Rizal, Manila 1920 Philippines
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