Simplicity: The Other Side of Complexity from Holiness Today’s Coffee Break of The Global Church of the Nazarene in Lenexa, Kansas, United States

Simplicity: The Other Side of Complexity from Holiness Today’s Coffee Break of The Global Church of the Nazarene in Lenexa, Kansas, United States

Holiness Today

Simplicity: The Other Side of Complexity
Ron Benefiel
Victor Peters was well into semi-retirement as a part-time staff member when I became pastor of Los Angeles First Church of the Nazarene nearly 30 years ago*. I was only 32 at the time and the rest of the staff members were about my age. The other young staffers and I set out to solve the tough problems of the world, especially our world in Los Angeles—complex problems, unsolvable perhaps.

Daily, we found ourselves confronted with the injustices of racism and poverty, the disappointments of people relapsing after months of sobriety, or the pain of parents whose children died before they were born. Throw into the mix the occasional but determined doubts and fears we carried in our own minds. Well, let’s just say there were plenty of restless nights. Read more >>

Simplicity: The Other Side of Complexity

Victor Peters was well into semi-retirement as a part-time staff member when I became pastor of Los Angeles First Church of the Nazarene nearly 30 years ago*. I was only 32 at the time and the rest of the staff members were about my age. The other young staffers and I set out to solve the tough problems of the world, especially our world in Los Angeles—complex problems, unsolvable perhaps.

Daily, we found ourselves confronted with the injustices of racism and poverty, the disappointments of people relapsing after months of sobriety, or the pain of parents whose children died before they were born. Throw into the mix the occasional but determined doubts and fears we carried in our own minds. Well, let’s just say there were plenty of restless nights.

I remember one Sunday evening when Victor took his turn in the pulpit. He preached on the peace and contentment we could know as Christians and perhaps, more importantly, that he knew in his own soul. I remember how he looked at all of us, especially those of us on staff, and in a knowing and gentle way, talked about how years before he had settled the tough questions.

Victor had settled the tough questions of what God wanted him to do (he served for years as a missionary in Korea) and who he would marry (a wonderful woman named Ruth). But he also alluded to the unsettling questions of faith and doubt, of injustice in a broken world, and ultimately the questions of full and final commitment to Christ. It wasn’t so much that he had found answers to all the challenging questions of life, but rather he had come to a place of quiet rest in Christ. A place of peace, the other side of the storm, a place of simplicity, the other side of complexity.

This peace in Christ comes through loud and clear in the writings of the Apostle Paul. Paul was a person of considerable education and influence. He was obviously a very deep thinker (consider the book of Romans!). I picture him in my mind challenging the intellectuals on Mars Hill in Athens as he argued the faith and him presenting his case before the Roman Governors Felix and Festus before appealing to Caesar.

But Paul also came to a place where he knew he could not depend upon his own intellectual abilities to figure out the mysteries of life or on his own wisdom and skill to accomplish the work God had called him to do.

Somewhere along the way he came to know that his only hope was the cross of Christ. A symbol of “foolishness” to the Greeks and a “stumbling block” to the Jews, but for Paul and those who believe, Christ was, and is, the power and wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1)! It was a place for Paul of full and final commitment to Christ.

In that place there were still plenty of unanswered questions, plenty of storms on the horizon, but deep underneath it all was a sense of the peace of God, a quiet confidence in his soul. His words speak volumes when he wrote to the Corinthians, “I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2 NASB). And in his letter to the Philippians, “I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am” (Philippians. 4:11 NASB). Peace, the other side of the storm. Simplicity, the other side of complexity.

Thomas Kelly is one of my favorite authors. After he and his wife served in the work of Quaker Centers in Vienna and Berlin in the 1920s, he accepted a position of professor of philosophy at Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana. He went on to Harvard University to further his studies, and then back to teach again at other universities of distinction. He demanded a great deal from his students, but not nearly as much as what he demanded of himself.

With all of his skill and competence, he was driven with the insatiable need to know the truth, to excel in his field, and to be recognized and honored for his work. In his relentless drive, Kelly’s health began to give out and he began to show the stresses and strains of his quest. And then, by the grace of God, he came out on the other side. Or perhaps better said, he came to the end of himself. He found a place of confident rest and peace in the Lord. Listen to his words to a congregation in Germantown in 1938:

To you in this room who are seekers, to you, young and old who have toiled all night and caught nothing, but who want to launch out into the deeps and let down your nets . . . I want to speak as simply, as tenderly, as clearly as I can. For God can be found. There is a last rock for your souls, a resting place of absolute peace and joy and power and radiance and security. There is a Divine Center into which your life can slip, a new and absolute orientation in God, a Center where you live with Him and out of which you see all of life, through new and radiant vision, tinged with new sorrows and pangs, new joys unspeakable and full of glory.1

Thomas Kelly went on to write one of the simplest yet most profound books I have ever read, A Testament of Devotion. It wasn’t so much that he had come up with the answers to all his questions, but rather that he had come to a place of quiet trust and confidence in the Lord. And in that place he found his rest. Peace, the other side of the storm—a beautiful and wonderful simplicity, the other side of complexity.

And I hear ringing in my ears the words to the old gospel song by Eliza E. Hewitt (Lidie H. Edmunds):

My faith has found a resting-place,
Not in device or creed
I trust the Ever-living One,
His wounds for me shall plead.

I need no other argument,
I need no other plea
It is enough that Jesus died,
And that He died for me.

Thanks be to God!

Ron Benefiel was president of Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri, and is now dean of the School of Theology and Christian Ministry at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego.

1. Kelly, Thomas. A Testament of Devotion. Harper and Row. 1941, pp. 18-19.

*Note: Victor Peters passed away at age 109 in August 2012. This article was originally published in 2011. All facts, figures, and titles were accurate to the best of our knowledge at that time but may have since changed.

Holiness Today, Jan/Feb 2011

To Wesley, the experience of regular renewal . . . was evidence of growth in Christlikeness. Read more >>
Renewal of the Body, Mind, and Spirit
We often find ourselves in situations where we do not have time or options for those much-needed break.

In the hectic pace of life, it is far too easy to get off balance with maintaining healthy and holy lifestyles. As employees, parents, caretakers, students, athletes, coaches, well, you name it—we often find ourselves in situations where we do not have time or options for those much-needed breaks.

But finding time for renewal of the body, mind, and spirit will help us keep ourselves healthy both physically and spiritually.

The Apostle Paul prayed for the church at Thessalonica: “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” (1 Thessalonians 5:23).

God desires that we grow in our relationship with Him continually—to love Him with our whole bodies, souls, minds, and strength: “Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment” (Matthew 22:37).

John Wesley had an understanding of God’s grace and salvation that began with a crisis of belief, but was ultimately realized in a lifelong journey of growing closer to God and to others in God’s family. Wesley saw that many who claimed to have faith inwardly did not seem to live their faith outwardly. This observation inspired his definition of salvation: “By salvation I mean not (according to the vulgar notion) deliverance from hell, or going to heaven, but a present deliverance from sin, a restoration of the soul to its primitive health, the renewal of our souls after the image of God in righteousness and true holiness, in justice, mercy, and truth.”

Holiness is about wholeness and a holistic approach to life. Wesley wanted believers to experience the presence of God at every moment in every part of their lives. He believed spiritual holiness calls for us to live in physical wholeness by treating our bodies as His holy temple.

In fact, Wesley wrote a well-publicized book entitled Primitive Physick, in which he gave advice and offered remedies for illnesses. A balanced diet, exercise, and proper rest, with all things in their appropriate degree, were important to this holistic way of looking at health. To Wesley, the experience of regular renewal spiritually, physically, and intellectually was evidence of growth in Christlikeness.

Perhaps it is time to take a spiritual inventory of your life.

Does the time you spend in praise, intercession, and the study of God’s Word give evidence that He is your first and highest priority?
Are you challenging your mind to an ever greater understanding of the character and work of the one you call Lord?
Do your diet and activity choices reflect the honor of being host to the Holy Spirit?
Are you striving to live at peace with those around you?
Do you have difficulty in taking on more than you can manage?
Do you find that are dealing with unnecessary baggage and cannot seem to let go of that?
The fact is, when our lives our out of balance spiritually and physically, we are not operating at our best.

But the good news is that in spite of life’s circumstances, we can find peace in God.

We find this reminder in the letter to the Romans, that when we spend time in renewal, we can be in touch with God’s will for our lives: Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will (Romans 12:1-2).

Make it your goal as Christians to cooperate with Him as He “works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13).

David W. Graves is general superintendent in the Church of the Nazarene.

Holiness Today, Mar/Apr 2014

Please note: This article was originally published in 2014. All facts, figures, and titles were accurate to the best of our knowledge at that time but may have since changed.

The Word of God declares that what is needed is simplicity, sacrifice, and obedience. Read more >>
Are You Passing the Prosperity Test?

In Over the Edge of the World, author Lawrence Bergreen tells the story of Ferdinand Magellan’s brave and exciting circumnavigation of the globe.

By 1519, more than half the world was unexplored, unmapped and misunderstood by Europeans. Mariners feared they could literally sail over the edge of the world. They believed that sea monsters lurked in the briny deep. . . that if they crossed equator, the ocean would boil and scald them to death. . . that India was filled with green people. . . that the fountain of youth could make one perpetually young. . . that islands full of spices could make one unbelievably rich. . . that some waters contained magnetic rocks that could pull the nails out of ships and sink them. Where did such myths originate? Who perpetuated such outrageous claims?

The answer—the writers and popular speakers who prospered through the telling and retelling of these myths as fact. One of the most popular of these travel books was The Travels of Sir John Mandeville. Mandeville collected ancient myths, passed it off as his own work, and claimed he had seen all these wonders for himself. Basically, Mandeville’s accounts were accepted as truth, even though he “never traveled much farther than his own well-stocked library.”

Fortunately, another writer emerged during the period we now know as the age of discovery: Francois Rabelais, a French friar and physician turned popular writer. Rabelais mocked these unreliable travel books in two comic epics: Gargantua and Pantagruel. He created a character for the ages, a blind old hunchback called Hearsay, and described how the masses followed him unquestioningly. Rabelais made a serious point in the comics as he directed his readers back to the classical Greek concept of autopsies, “seeing for one’s self” (and the origin of the English world autopsy). He stressed the value of firsthand reporting and obtaining reliable accounts from eyewitnesses with firsthand knowledge.

The revival of this ancient concept of autopsies helped encourage and embolden people such as Ferdinand Magellan to discover, explore, and become “the Renaissance equivalent of an astronaut.” According to Bergree, “Magellan’s three-year voyage became the first ever global autopsy. The time was ripe for Magellan and his armada to sweep away a thousand years of accumulated cobwebs. The reign of Hearsay was coming to an end.”

What may have been true of the exploration of the globe may or may not be true in the world of Christian faith and practice.

The old, blind hunchback, Hearsay, is back.

He is as popular as ever and his following has grown exponentially. He continues to perpetuate an ancient myth: The Prosperity of Gospel. Taking antiquated folklores of questionable origin, these prosperity teachers (so-called) have collected such myths, passed them off as their own work as they claimed to have seen these wonders for themselves. Some in the prosperity camp have benefited personally from the teaching, using their own material prosperity as proof of the truth of their claims.

People of God, the time is ripe to go to our most reliable source for matters of both faith and practice: The Word of God—and perform an autopsy. Let’s see for ourselves, with the help of eyewitnesses who have firsthand knowledge of these matters! An autopsy of true biblical prosperity will yield the following evidence:

Our God Wishes to Prosper His People.

This truth is made abundantly clear in the writings of the prophet Jeremiah: “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” (29:11). Could this be any clearer? What is not clear from this verse alone is what prosperity means. Let’s continue with the autopsy. Look. See for yourself.

Prosperity can take a variety of forms.

John writes: “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well” (3 John 2). This verse indicates that the Bible reveals more than one form of prosperity: spiritual, relational, physical, emotional, and material prosperity.

God does prosper some with material possessions.

Look at Abram. God said, “I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you” and Abram accumulated great wealth (Genesis 12:2). But Abram’s material prosperity had a purpose: “you will be a blessing” (12:3). God prospers some with material possessions for a reason—to bless the world.

Material prosperity is a test.

The life of Joseph bears this out. Joseph’s life, as recorded in Genesis 37-50, was a series of tests. Prosperity was one of them. Joseph was in prison. Suddenly—almost overnight—Joseph went from prisoner to powerbroker. With one statement from Pharaoh, Joseph became the second most powerful, and one of the richest, men in the world (Genesis 41:41-44). His newfound material prosperity was a test and true to form, Joseph passed it. He used his position and possessions to serve humanity.

Hearsay continues to teach that what is needed is a faith that will lead to even greater material prosperity.

The Word of God declares that what is needed is simplicity, sacrifice, and obedience. By God’s grace, we can pass the prosperity test and become a blessing to the nations. That’s no myth. That’s from a reliable source.

Bud Reedy is senior pastor of Stillmeadow Church of the Nazarene in York, Pennsylvania.

Holiness Today, May/June 2007

Please note: This article was originally published in 2007. All facts, figures, and titles were accurate to the best of our knowledge at that time but may have since changed.

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Announcement: Summer Camp 2019 from The California-Pacific Conference of The United Methodist Church in Pasadena, California, United States

Announcement: Summer Camp 2019 from The California-Pacific Conference of The United Methodist Church in Pasadena, California, United States
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Summer Camp 2019
This summer, come outside and explore the universe of God at Summer Camp 2019 at Cedar Glen, Lazy W Ranch, and Camp Wrightwood! Early Bird discount has been extended to April 21.à
At summer camp, young people will grow in faith, learn leadership skills, grow self-esteem, make life-long friendships and have fun. Cal-Pac summer camp is a safe place where everyone belongs.
Weeklong events are available for Elementary, Junior High, and High School youth, and even for grandparents and grand kids. There are adventures to be had in God’s great creation – so plan ahead for a great summer!
Act now as Early Bird Registration ends on Sunday, April 21, 2019.
For more information, or with questions regarding the program or applications, please contact Michele Corbett at mcorbett@calpacumc.org.Learn more and/or apply online via the buttons below…
REGISTER ONLINE NOW
LEARN MORE

Copyright © 2019 The California-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, All rights reserved.
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New Assistant Professor of Old Testament at Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri, United States

New Assistant Professor of Old Testament at Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri, United States

Nazarene Theological Seminary

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NTS WELCOMES ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF OLD TESTAMENT
Wednesday, April 17, 2019

Jenny MathenyNazarene Theological Seminary is pleased to welcome Dr. Jenny Matheny as Assistant Professor of Old Testament. Dr. Matheny has previously served as Associate Professor of Theology at Manhattan Christian College and as an adjunct professor at Multnomah University and George Fox University.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Matheny to the NTS faculty,” said NTS President Dr. Jeren Rowell. “Her scholarship, engagement in local church ministry, and authentic love for students combine to make her an outstanding and exciting addition to our Seminary community.”

Dr. Matheny received a B.A. in Biblical Literature from Ozark Christian College. She has an M.A. in Theological Studies with a concentration in the Old Testament from Regent College and has completed additional graduate studies at George Fox Seminary and Mennonite Biblical Brethren Seminary. She successfully defended her doctoral thesis in February 2019 at the University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom, where her scholarly research concentrated on the books of Judges and Ruth.

“We are excited to have Dr. Matheny join our learning community,” said Dean Dr. Josh Sweeden. “Dr. Matheny has an infectious passion and brings constructive engagement to her teaching and scholarship on the Old Testament. Such traits are invaluable to the church and our students as we encounter the wisdom of scripture for today’s dynamic contexts of ministry.”

Dr. Matheny’s church experience deeply shapes her vocation as a professor. Together with her husband Art, Pastor of Connections and Discipleship at Westview Community Church (Wesleyan), they have worked in various church contexts and know the rhythms, challenges, and gifts of church leadership.

“I’m passionate about the church,” said Dr. Matheny. “Our family has served in the local church for over twenty years. We’ve been involved in youth ministry, church planting, and church revitalization. I am looking forward to becoming part of the future trajectory of NTS as it serves the Church of the Nazarene and the broader ecclesial community in training and equipping students for local and global ministry.”

Interested in learning more about graduate studies at NTS? Visit https://www.nts.edu/explore-your-call.

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Easter Service Times: 8, 9:30 and 11 AM at First United Methodist Church in San Diego, California, United States

Easter Service Times: 8, 9:30 and 11 AM at First United Methodist Church in San Diego, California, United States

First United Methodist Church of San Diego
Wed 4/17/2019 4:01 AM

Wednesday, April 17, 2019
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SUNDAYWORSHIPSUNDAY WORSHIP

April 21, 2019
John 20:1-18

HOLY COMMUNION
Changed time AND location on Easter Sunday
Trotter Chapel | 9:00 AM

SANCTUARY WORSHIP | Mission Valley Campus
Changed worship times on Easter Sunday
8, 9:30 AM & 11 AM | Dr. Phil Amerson | Easter Sunday
Practice Resurrection

6 AM | SUNRISE SERVICE | Crown Point Park
Joined service with Pacific Beach UMC

WATER’S EDGE | Ocean Beach Campus
10 AM | Rev. Jessica Strysko

LIVE STREAM BROADCAST
All sanctuary services can be accessed via our website or YouTube (search First Church San Diego).
EASTERHOLY WEEK & EASTER IN MISSION VALLEY
4/17 – 3rd Wednesday Sunset Worship
WORSHIP | 6:45 – 7:30 PM | Sanctuary | Communion | Dr. John Fanestil
The Sunset Worship experience starts with an extended organ prelude at 6:45 pm, offering time for quiet reflection on the meaning of Holy Week.
4/18 – MAUNDY THURSDAY
WORSHIP | 7:30 – 8:30 PM | Sanctuary | Communion | Dr. John Fanestil
The Contemporary Singers will sing a cantata entitled, “Lenten Sketches” by Joseph Martin.
4/19 – GOOD FRIDAY
WORSHIP | 12 – 12:45 PM | Sanctuary | Rev. Melissa Spence
4/21 – EASTER SUNDAY
WORSHIP | CHANGED SCHEDULE: 8, 9:30 & 11 AM | Sanctuary | Dr. Phil Amerson
EASTER EGG HUNT for the children at 10:30 AM on the Plaza.
NUWEDNESDAYWEDNESDAY PROGRAMS

M I D D A Y G A T H E R I N G Wednesdays | 10:30 AM – 1 PM
Pastor’s Bible Study – Get a detailed look at the Sermon on the Mount.
Wednesdays through May 15 | 10:30 – 11:30 AM | Linder Hall
11:30 Lunch ($8, RSVP by Monday, gatheringsd@fumcsd.org, 619-297-4366),
12:15 – 1 PM Today’s Program (4/17) No “Gathering”. Next Week (4/24) Communion.
Program. See the whole winter/spring 2019 schedule…
childrenCHILDREN & YOUTH

SUNDAY SCHOOL PROGRAMS FOR ALL KIDS AND YOUTH

Easter Egg Hunt at 10:30 AM | Plaza
(No Sunday School on Easter Sunday)
Find your Sunday School Programs HERE…
MUSICMUSIC

Midday Pipes
Wednesday, May 8 | 12:15 – 1 PM | Sanctuary | Free | More…
We invite you to take a 45-minute break in your busy day. Sit down, relax and enjoy the beautiful music played on the largest pipe organ in San Diego County. Come listen to Dr. Emma Whitten, Associate Director of Music at Mission San Luis Rey Parish, Oceanside.

Precious in God’s Sight – A Gospel/Spiritual Program
Sunday, May 19 | 2 – 4 PM | Sanctuary | Offering | More…
Join us in worship with music and the spoken word that will inspire you: An African American praise choir, gospel soloists, poetry Interpretation, gospel/spiritual sounds from Westwind Brass, and the nationally renowned jazz saxophonist, Jay Boykins. Pastors from both churches will welcome you, and husband-wife emcees, ABC News National Investigative Correspondent Kyra Phillips and FOX News White House Correspondent John Roberts, will lead this cast of amazing talent. This program is brought to you by Unity in Diversity, a group composed of members of First Church and St. Paul’s UMC, in cooperation with the San Diego School of Christian Studies.
A SOUL FOOD LUNCH will be offered prior to the event at 12 noon – 1:30 PM to a cost of $7/person. Buy your lunch tickets online or at church on Sundays.
UMWUMW

Global Lens: Reflections on Life, the Universe and Everything
Saturday, May 18 | 12 – 2 PM | Linder Hall | Lunch & Dessert. $12 (children $6:50) Buy tickets online or at church on Sundays.
Globe-trotting photojournalist and UMC missionary Rev. Paul Jeffery presents images and work from his 2016-18 travels and more. His work is focused on how Christians and Christian communities struggle for justice and peace in the midst of repression, violence, and rapid economic and social change. He is a senior correspondent for the UMW Response magazine, filing stories from over 80 countries. His work has appeared in numerous ecumenical magazines as well as the Washington Post, Boston Globe, Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, National Geographic Explorer, and Time.
SERVESERVE
Easter Eggs
Loaves & Fishes Easter Outreach
Sunday, April 21
Each Sunday our Loaves & Fishes Ministry provides assistance in the form of supplemental food to low-income families and individuals. We serve approximately 140 people each week. This Easter we would like to provide each family with a ham (canned or fresh) or chicken (large whole roasting) and a dozen eggs (hard boiled & colored or fresh) in addition to the regular distribution items. You may drop off your donations at the table in Linder Hall this Sunday, April 21. Cash donations would also be greatly appreciated to help support this project. Please feel free to contact Pastor Melissa at mspence@fumcsd.org.

Mission Outreach Thrift Store Need Your Help
Our thrift store, now under new management of Brenda Blake, will be closed from April 22-26, while receiving a much-needed face lift by the Chain Gang and prepped for the Grand Re-Opening on April 27. On Wednesday 4/24 and Thursday, 4/25 we need all-hands-on-deck, starting 9:30 AM until 4:30 PM, to help Brenda get the store ready. Any hours you can spare to help clean and decorate, re-organize, sort and price the merchandise are greatly appreciated. For more info, call the Thrift Store at 619-528-0026 or email Brenda atbblake@fumcsd.org.

Social Services Resource Center
Sunday, April 28 | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Sanctuary Meeting Room
A Social Service Resource Center follow-up meeting will be held to continue the development of a model to provide referrals for people in need of social services and counseling services. People with skill sets which would support this program are enthusiastically invited to contribute your knowledge and support.
For more information please email Pastor Melissa or David Maidlow.
High-priority Volunteer Needs
First Church offers many ways to serve within our congregation and in our community. Sunday Hospitality teams, Sunday school teachers and office ministry helpers are currently in high demand. Sign up to serve…

Update from Christ Ministry Center (CMC) and Safe Harbors Network (SHN)Learn more about the ongoing work among the refugees – By Kay Gilbert.
The SHN, based inside the CMC building, is a broad affiliation of faith congregations throughout San Diego County bound to care for refugees. Rev. Dr. Bill Jenkins runs both CMC and SHN with dedication and entrepreneurial aplomb. He has met the challenges by working to ready FOUR more facilities for refugees within the next 4-6 weeks. These combined facilities have the potential for adding 250 more beds to the already well-functioning SHN. Pastor Bill’s analysis of service to refugees from Jan. 1 through Mar. 31 of 2019, is a total of 10,369 “bed nights” so far this year. That includes not only a bed per person, but also the necessary staff, food, clothing, housing, nursing and medical services, transportation and more. With the next four facilities coming on, Pastor Bill estimates SHN may well provide a total of 50,000 “bed nights” for the year of 2019. Find out how you can get involved and support this missional work here…
FELLOWSHIPFELLOWSHIP
New Small Group – Younger Adults 4th Sunday Brunch
Sunday, April 28 | 12 – 1:30 PM | Tiger! Tiger! (3025 El Cajon Blvd. SD, 92104)
If you’re a younger adult (20’s to 40’s) and are looking to connect with others in our church family, join us every 4th Sunday after worship for food and community! We choose a different local restaurant each month, and ALL are welcome–kids, friends, partners, and everywhere in between! Contact Jason Tucker to sign up for updates and find out where we’ll be this month!
First Church LGBTQ+ Mixer
Sunday, May 5 | 4 – 6 PM | RSVP by May 2
Join with pastors, members, friends and allies as we discuss the future of First Church’s outreach to the LGBTQ+ community. Having declared its commitment to full and unqualified inclusion of LGBTQ+ persons, First Church is in a unique position to offer a warm embrace to others. Come as you are, and help us chart a new course for First Church San Diego as a church for all people! This event will take place at the home of Darrell Netherton & Robert Wheeler. Address provided with RSVP by May 2.
MEMBERSHIPMEMBERSHIP
New Beginnings Membership Class
New date! Sunday, May 5 | 12 – 2 PM | Linder Lounge
Sign up for a personal conversation with Pastors John Fanestil and Jessica Strysko. Together we will explore what it means to be a member of First Church, blessings and responsibilities of being part of a community of faith and more. We will share lunch together, and those desiring to join the church will be received at a later date at either the Mission Valley or Ocean Beach campuses. To participate contactDemmie Divine or call the church office: 619-297-4366.
LEARNLEARN
Gospel Music Lecture
Monday, May 6 | 7 – 8:30 PM | Linder 4 | RSVP | Offering
Do you enjoy Gospel music? Have you ever wondered where it came from? Why is it so popular? What exactly is it anyway? Come to the Gospel Music Lecture to hear all about it from Dr. Kenneth Anderson, an expert on this subject, then follow up by attending the Gospel – Spiritual program on May 19. This event is co-sponsored by the Unity in Diversity committee and the School of Christian studies. A free will offering will be taken. Learn more about our speaker.
Bridges of Hope – A presentation about mental health
Tuesday, May 7 | 12:30 – 2:30 PM | The Cove | RSVP by May 3
Please join First United Methodist Church & New Life Counseling Center for the Bridges of Hope presentation and light lunch. Our mission is to educate faith communities about mental illness so that they can create stronger and safer communities of faith for people affected by mental illness. Bridges of Hope is produced by NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) and FaithNet. Email questions to Sheilah Cameron, LMFT, Director of New Life Counseling Center.
OBOB UPDATE

W.E. Says “Yes” to God’s Call in OB
The Water’s Edge Faith Community has been working to clarify how we share our call to serve our community with more focus. In conversation with the congregation and leadership team, several key values are emerging as we seek missional opportunities: 1) Local: from the beginning, we have heard God calling us to be good neighbors in OB, and to encourage our community to invest time and energy in this awesome place we call home. 2) Transformational: we long to serve in ways that contribute to real and lasting positive change in people’s lives. Ways of serving that seek the big picture, and try to engage meaningfully in that space. 3) Inclusive: as a reconciling community where all are welcome and LGBTQIA+ persons are celebrated for the gifts they bring, where small groups and relationships are of high importance, and as a church that cares for all of our neighbors – both housed and unhoused – we want to continue to share God’s love broadly, with abundance, and with respect for all. We continue to seek to join in with what God is already doing in our neighborhood. These key values will help guide us as we say “Yes” to God’s call for our faith community.

See all the Water’s Edge Holy week and Easter events in OB here.
Blessings, Pastor Jessica
BUSINESSCHURCH BUSINESS
Weekly Attendance
Sunday attendance at Mission Valley and OB Campuses, and Youtube Live Stream
April 14, 2019: 817 | Last Year: 744
Giving
GENERAL FUND GIVING: Includes Pledged Giving, record of giving and loose offering for Mission Valley and Ocean Beach.
ACTUAL GIVING YTD as of April 14, 2019: $469,687.14
BUDGETED GIVING YTD as of April 14, 2019: $487,986.11
NOTICESNOTICES
Learn about First Church 150-year History in San Diego
The 150th Anniversary History book by Krista Ames-Cook. This book is a must-have with lots of photographs and stories of joy and hope. Available for purchase in the church office. Cost $25. Check out First Church History Timeline on our website.

SAVE THE DATES:
May 2 – National Day of Prayer
May 5 – Guest Preacher: Alfred T. Day III
May 19 – Pastor Phils Book Club
May 25 – Day trip to Tijuana Border church
May 26 – Younger Adults 4th Sunday Brunch
May 26 – Baptism
June 2 – Annual Church Conference and Council Meeting
Oberammergau Passion Play 2020. Contact Demmie in the church office for more information.

Prayers of the People. Join our prayer group as we meet every Wednesday at 9:30 – 10:30 AM to pray over the present week’s prayer requests from the congregation and online prayer requests. All are welcome. We meet in the church library (below the sanctuary).

Koinonia Fellowship Class meets every Sunday in Linder Lounge at 8 AM. Upcoming speaker: April 21, no class. April 28, Linda Pomerinke.

Heart of Christianity meets every Sunday in Linder Lounge at 10:30 AM. All are welcome!

Give a gift of a meal to a homeless person – Hand a $5 McDonalds gift card to anyone in need of a meal. Stop by Linder Hall between services. ~ Heart of Christianity

Altar Flower Calendar Openings – Have an important event or wish to honor someone? Contact Demmie Divine, 619-297-4366, x138. Each bouquet is $55.

The Grief Support Group is meeting on Sundays through 4/28, 9 -10 AM in the Library below the Sanctuary. You may join this group any time. ContactRev. Melissa Spence for more info.

Sponsor a Prayer Quilt for someone in need of prayer — whatever the reason. Submit a request or call Cheryl Johnson at 619-297-7575.

DEATHS: Norma Funkhouser Cline, April 1. Sandra Willis, Mar.16. Marjorie Dickson, Mar. 14. Stella Miller, Mar. 9. Stanley Wilson, June 26, 2017.
Check our website for weekly updates regarding deaths, memorial services and funerals.
MISSION OUTREACH THRIFT STORE | 3186 Adams Avenue
Open Monday to Saturday 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM | 619-528-0026
Closed on most holidays.
Thrift Store

The Thrift Store carries a wide variety of interesting items in a boutique setting. It has quality clothing and shoes, linens, quilts, books, art, small appliances, all kinds of furniture, and lamps, jewelry, silverware, kitchenware, toys, collectibles and vintage clothing. Good quality donations are always needed.

We are currently looking for small household furniture like rocking chairs, small end tables, unique hand painted furniture pieces etc. Proceeds from the Thrift Store support several local missions and the United Methodist Women. Last year we raised $18,890 for local missions.
eNEWS, the official newsletter of First United Methodist Church of San Diego, is published every Wednesday.
To submit an article for consideration, send to communications@fumcsd.org
by the Wednesday of the week prior to publication

2111 CAMINO DEL RIO S. IN MISSION VALLEY | 619-297-4366 | FirstChurchSD.com

First United Methodist Church of San Diego,2111 Camino del Rio South, San Diego, California 92108, United States

Announcement: GBGM Missionaries Erbele’s Itinerating in Cal-Pac (June 2019) from California Pacific Conference of the United Methodist Church in Pasadena, California, United States

Announcement: GBGM Missionaries Erbele’s Itinerating in Cal-Pac (June 2019) from California Pacific Conference of the United Methodist Church in Pasadena, California, United States
California-Pacific Conference
announcement

GBGM Missionaries Erbele’s Itinerating in Cal-Pac (June 2019)
Mission Advocates for the Western Jurisdiction of Global Ministries, Rev. Teri and Rev. Evelyn Erbele, will be in Cal-Pac Conference from June 1 through June 16. With a 5th wheeler, they will not need transportation or overnight housing but a location to share their missionary story.
During this visit, they will have the option of stopping in churches in the far east as they travel from Desert Southwest Conference and far north to drive to California-Nevada Conference.
Please contact Donna Johnson, Cal-Pac Conference Secretary of Global Ministries, at (562) 544-9919 or donnaj73995@gmail.com to arrange visits to churches or if you have questions on how you can be supportive to missionaries and mission projects in the US and around the world.
Copyright © 2019 The California-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is:
The California-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church
110 South Euclid Avenue
Pasadena, California 91101, United States

Event: Early Response Team Training (DRTF) 2019 @Santa Barbara from The California-Pacific Conference in Pasadena, California, United States

Event: Early Response Team Training (DRTF) 2019 @Santa Barbara from The California-Pacific Conference in Pasadena, California, United States
event

Early Response Team Training (DRTF) 2019 @Santa Barbara
Date: Saturday, May 18, 2019
Location: St. Mark UMC of Santa Barbara (3942 La Colina Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93110)
Cost: $40 (includes light lunch, manuals and background check)
Registration Deadline:Friday, May 17, 2019
Early Response Teams (ERTs) to fill specific needs in the early days after a disaster, such as cleaning out flood-damaged homes, removing debris, placing tarps on homes and otherwise helping to prevent further damage, while providing a caring Christian presence. To be eligible for an ERT team, participants must take the 8 hour Basic Class ERT. After completion, participants will receive an ERT identification card which is valid for three years. A Renewal Class of 4 hours is required every 3 years. A background check (conducted through UMCOR’s Verified Volunteers program) is required in order to receive an ERT identification card and participate on a team.
The course will equip volunteers to minister in early response conditions, stabilizing damage to homes and being a caring presence for survivors. The instructors for this class are Doug and Judy Lewis.
Additional Materials: Participants owning a laptop or WiFi-enabled tablet are encouraged to bring one, in order to efficiently process paperwork related to certification.
Cal-Pac requires this training for all volunteers, whether United Methodist or not, who wish to apply for a team to Saipan, under the FEMA Invitational to work with survivors from Super Typhoon Yutu.
Register online via the button below or learn more by contacting Judy Lewis, Cal-Pac UMVIM/Disaster Response Coordinator, atDFJKLewis@aol.comor (909) 731-8248.
REGISTER ONLINE NOW
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Copyright © 2019 The California-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is:
The California-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church
110 South Euclid Avenue
Pasadena, California 91101, United States

The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, United States Grow Pray Study (GPS) Guide for Saturday, 13 April 2019 “Therefore, go… make disciples” Daily Scripture: Matthew 28:16-20

The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, United States Grow Pray Study (GPS) Guide for Saturday, 13 April 2019 “Therefore, go… make disciples” Daily Scripture: Matthew 28:16-20
“Therefore, go… make disciples”
Did You Know?
There are many opportunities to prepare your heart for Easter during Holy Week. For information about what is planned at any or all our campuses, click on the campus name.
Leawood
West
Downtown
Blue Springs
Daily Scripture:
Matthew 28:16-20
16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshipped him, but some doubted. 18 Jesus came near and spoke to them, “I’ve received all authority in heaven and on earth. 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to obey everything that I’ve commanded you. Look, I myself will be with you every day until the end of this present age.”(Common English Bible).
Matthew 28:16-20
16 So the eleven talmidim went to the hill in the Galil where Yeshua had told them to go.
17 When they saw him, they prostrated themselves before him; but some hesitated.
18 Yeshua came and talked with them. He said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
19 Therefore, go and make people from all nations into talmidim, immersing them into the reality of the Father, the Son and the Ruach HaKodesh,
20 and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember! I will be with you always, yes, even until the end of the age.”(Complete Jewish Bible).
Reflection Questions:
The disciples made their way to the rendezvous point in Galilee. Understanding more fully who Jesus was after his resurrection, the eleven disciples probably worshiped him with more depth than ever before. “Some doubted” likely means some were still stunned, even dumbfounded that they found themselves with Jesus—a once-dead, now alive, risen Savior. He told his disciples to “go,” which is probably better translated as you are going. As you go about the daily rhythms in your ordinary life, the Savior said, prioritize the mission of disciple making. And as you do, realize the comforting presence of Jesus is with you every day.
To “make disciples” is to guide people to accept the claims of Christ. “Baptizing” and “teaching” are important aspects of being a disciple, but not necessarily the means to make disciples. People become disciples by coming into the community of believers and submitting to Christ as the Lord of their life. Teaching disciples means leading them toward a life of obedience to Jesus, not just intellectually teaching doctrine.* Jesus said “go.” How’s your “going,” anyway? Would you say that Christ is the Lord of your life? In what ways is your Lord leading you to make disciple-making a priority?
Respond:
Explore. We are called to make disciples and we might all go about doing this in a different way. Consider how God might have uniquely gifted you to share. Take a spiritual gifts assessment online. Explore how God might be calling you use your gift to share about your faith.
My Spiritual Gift(s): How have I used this gift?
How might God be calling me to use this gift?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I want to glorify you with my faithful commitment to make disciples. Help me remember that you are always present with me as I live out your commission. Amen.
Family Activity:
How can your family find ways to share the continuous Good News that “Jesus is alive”? Gather together and invite each person to share how he or she experiences the joy and love of Jesus in their life. Ask, “How do you know Jesus loves you? Or “When do you feel the love of Jesus in your heart?” Write these thoughts down, then create a list of people who might need to experience the love of Jesus. Choose one or two ways to share Jesus’ love with others. You might share kind and encouraging words or bake cookies. Maybe you want to share a song or a Scripture passage. Celebrate and share the good news of Jesus’ love all year long!
* NIV Bible Commentary Volume 2. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1994, page 134.

Read today’s Insight by Dave Pullin
Through his life, Dave has learned that the person is more important than the task and that the process is just as important as the product. The way we do things, and the way we treat others, is vital

I recently viewed an interview with Simon Sinek on leadership * in which he asked the interviewer, “Do you love your wife?” The interviewer responded that he did. Sinek then asked for proof: “What is the metric you use that proves you love your wife? Tell me the exact day you went from not loving your wife to loving your wife.” Of course the interviewer couldn’t provide the metric because there really isn’t a metric that proves love in the same way there is a metric that proves gross revenues and percent increase in market share.
Sinek’s point was that the love between the interviewer and his wife developed over time due to the consistent repetition of small, seemingly insignificant acts of love. He then likened it to going to the gym: 3 hours at the gym one day a year won’t really do anything, but 30 minutes a day at the gym for 6 weeks will do quite a lot. When it comes to things like love, exercise and leadership, Sinek states that intensity means nothing, yet consistency means everything.
I wonder if that principle applies to living out our faith, which is what I feel this Scripture, and honestly all of the spiritual practices we’ve been exploring, are about. What we practice, grows stronger. When we consistently practice loving acts to our spouse, children, and friends, our relationships grow stronger. When we consistently practice ethical and servant leadership at work, our employees become more loyal, more engaged and more effective. When we consistently practice the small and daily acts of giving thanks, studying Scripture, practicing justice and kindness, and living generously, we become a living example of what it means to be Christian (bearing witness).
Sometimes I think the word Christian has lost some of its meaning. It seems to be referred to as a club or status, or something. But it means so much more than that. The suffix -Ian actually has several meanings:
Typical of or resembling of
Adhering to or following
Belonging or relating to
So when we apply that suffix and describe ourselves as Christ-ian, we reveal our intention to resemble, follow, and belong to Christ. But living as a Christian, just like loving your spouse or going to the gym, is not done through short, intermittent bursts of intensity. Living as a Christian, or living like Christ, sees greater transformation when done with a consistent dedication to the small behaviors. And those behaviors, over time, begin to shape and transform. It begins with us first, then those immediately around us like our family and coworkers, then it will continue to their networks of people and beyond.
What we practice grows stronger. When we practice our faith consistently, it affects our behavior and has a positive impact on those around us, eventually trickling down to places and people we will never know. And these practices are really the practices of love in disguise. When we love God and love others, that is what I feel it means to be a witness.
* Sinek, S. (2019). This Talk Will Make You Rethink Your Entire Life. Inspire Discipline. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/SSQ536KTRxc
Like this post? Share it!

If you have a question or comment about today’s GPS or Insights blog, you can send it to GPS@cor.org. We read them all, but because of the number of responses we receive, cannot guarantee replies.
You might also like:
Philip: ready to share when asked
“Whenever anyone asks…be ready”
Parting words from the risen Savior
Jesus’ concise sketch of God’s big story
Jesus actively shared good news
Or download this week’s printable GPS.

©2017 Church of the Resurrection. All Rights Reserved.
Scripture quotations are taken from The Common English Bible ©2011.
Used by permission. All rights reserved.
The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection
13720 Roe Avenue
Leawood, Kansas 66224, United States

NHU EASTER PARTY… 🌷 we need YOUR help! at Normal Heights United Methodist Church in San Diego, California, United States

NHU EASTER PARTY… 🌷 we need YOUR help! at Normal Heights United Methodist Church in San Diego, California, United States

Brent and Molly

Easter Volunteers Needed!

As we get ready to celebrate Easter Sunday together, one of the ways we make that happen is in how we all pull together. Ready to pitch in and get ready for the biggest party of the year? Here’s how you can help!

A) Help supply food for the Easter party! We need everyone to bring a side dishand for just 5 people to signup to cook/slice a ham (provided by the church). Email contact for hams: brent@nhunited.org

B) Help decorate the Sanctuary for Easter worship! We need 3 people on Saturday, April 20 at 2:00pm. Email: brent@nhunited.org

C) Help set up and decorate the party space in the park! We need 2 people at 7am on Sunday morning and 2 people at 8am. No heavy lifting involved, just decorating and organizing. Email: molly@nhunited.org

D) Help get the food organized as people bring it on Easter morning. We need 2 people on Sunday morning at 9:30 am to direct food to the kitchen. Email: brent@nhunited.org

E) Own a pickup truck? Need 1-2 people to pick up some chairs earlier that week from a neighboring church and deliver them to the church. Email: molly@nhunited.org

Copyright © 2019 Normal Heights United, All rights reserved.

Thank you for signing up for the Sacred Ordinary e-mail!

Our mailing address is:

Normal Heights United

4650 Mansfield Street

San Diego, California 92116, United States

Join us for Holy Week this year from The First United Methodist Church in Redondo Beach, California, United States First United Methodist Church Friday, 12 April 2019

Join us for Holy Week this year from The First United Methodist Church in Redondo Beach, California, United States
First United Methodist Church
Friday, 12 April 2019

Please share this invitation for Palm Sunday, Good Friday and Easter with a friend!
First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
From Pastor Molly: Love Without Limits
I hope you will worship with us this Holy Week. We welcome you to experience the amazing love of God as we celebrate God’s power to overcome even death.

Ours is a story of love without limits, of a God whose love is made visible in Jesus Christ. God’s does not triumph through violent overthrow, but through sacrificial love that turns the world upside down. We invite you to join us in celebrating this love that always overcomes.

We have planned and prepared some pretty incredible worship experiences for this Holy Week, for people of all ages. I hope you will come join us, and that you’ll pass this invitation along to others, as well.

Grace and peace,
Pastor Molly
Holy Week at BeachFaith Church

Who will you invite to be a part of Palm Sunday? Share it on Facebook.

Children should start on the patio with palm branches and their grown-ups–as everyone comes into the sanctuary, the kids will gather in the narthex with Ms. Risa so they can follow the donkey into the sanctuary while singing “Hosanna.” Pastor Molly and the donkey will talk. Then, after the donkey exits, the kids will be invited to Sunday School during 10:30 worship.
Palm Sunday: April 14 at 10am
We hope you will join us for our Palm Sunday Donkey Processionon April 14 starting at 10:00am! Wave a palm branch and shout “Hosanna” as Jesus rides past.

Following the procession, 10:30 worship will feature favorites from “Jesus Christ Superstar,” alongside readings from scripture. Our incredible musicians will be joined by special soloists for the day.

Stay after for a taco lunch, in support our Baja Mission Team. Click thru for more details.

Or, join us for worship at 8:30amin Epworth Lounge, where we will share the Passion Story from Luke’s gospel.

Good Friday Worship @ 7:30pm
Worship with us on Good Friday, April 19 at 7:30pm in the sanctuary, as we remember and contemplate Jesus Christ’s crucifixion. Our choir will sing Dale Wood’s “Service of Darkness,” which includes seven choral meditations on the last words of Jesus Christ. The service will provide a prayerful and meditative space on this holy day.

Join us at 6:30am on Torrance Beach for Sunrise Worship on the Beach; Rev. Amy Aitken of Riviera UMC will preach, young adults from our congregation will lead singing, and Pastor Molly will lead prayers.

Worship on campus at 8:30am in Epworth Lounge to share Easter joy.

Our Children’s Egg Hunt will be on Easter Sunday at 9:45am on the Broadway Lawn! Afterwards, kids are encouraged to worship with their families–kids activity kits are available in the narthex. The nursery is open for children age 5 and under, as well.

Pastor Molly will begin a new sermon series: “Love Without Limits.”
Celebrate Easter with Us!
On Sunday, April 21 we will celebrate Easter together! Our 10:30 worship will begin with an orchestral prelude (combining Strauss’s Also Sprach Zarathustra with Copeland’s Fanfare for the Common Man). We’ll sing “Christ the Lord is Risen Today” and share in the joy of resurrection life.

With prayers, song and communion, we invite everyone to join in! All are welcome at the communion table.

As is our tradition, we’ll end the service singing Handel’s “Hallelujah,” inviting anyone to join the choir.

Share our Facebook eventand invite others!
We encourage you to park at the Wells Fargo bank on Sunday mornings, and walk across the street, reserving the parking lot for those with mobility challenges or for new visitors. We also have a bike rack on the patio. Thanks for your consideration!

First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, Cslifornia 90277, United Ststes
(310)372-8445 main
(310)372-5696 fax
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First United Methodist Church
243 South Broadway
Redondo Beach, California 90277, United States

This week in the Church of the Nazarene The Global Church of the Nazarene News: “Churches support fire victims” from The Nazarene Communication Network News in Lenexa, Kansas, United States Volume 1915 for Friday, 12 April 2019

This week in the Church of the Nazarene
The Global Church of the Nazarene News: “Churches support fire victims” from The Nazarene Communication Network News in Lenexa, Kansas, United States Volume 1915 for Friday, 12 April 2019

NCN News

This week in the Church of the Nazarene…

Virginia congregation offers forgiveness after church destroyed in ‘catastrophic’ fire

The Hopewell Church of the Nazarene in Virginia was deemed a total loss after a “catastrophic” fire destroyed the building. The fire was ruled arson, but the church congregation is focusing on the future and forgiveness for those involved. Read more
“Virginia congregation offers forgiveness after church destroyed in ‘catastrophic’ fire”
Español
Hopewell, Virginia

Photos taken by WRIC-TV, Richmond, Virginia.

The Hopewell Church of the Nazarene in Virginia was deemed a total loss after a catastrophic fire destroyed the building 5 April.

“It is with a heavy heart that we report our beloved church suffered a catastrophic fire late last night,” church leaders posted on Facebook. “Thankfully the professional first responders from Hopewell Fire & Rescue and Hopewell Police Department contained the fire quickly and prevented a spread to our neighbors.”

According to the Richmond Times-Dispatch, a church neighbor alerted the local fire department at 10:40 p.m. The fire was deemed under control approximately two hours later.

Investigators said the fire started in the sanctuary. After further investigation, the fire was ruled arson.

“While we have learned that the fire was arson, we as a church hold no ill will toward anyone and offer forgiveness to those involved,” church leaders wrote on Facebook. “We are grateful no one was injured and have open arms to families in our community.”

Though the church has lost its place of worship, Senior Pastor David Woods still has hope for the future of the church.

“This is a setback, it is not a cessation,” Woods told WRIC-TV, Richmond, Virginia. “It’s not about the buildings and the bricks and the books; it’s about the hearts that we’re able to touch. The hearts that have been already impacted by this church through the years, and those that will continue to be blessed as we move forward.”

The Hopewell congregation has already begun moving forward and held a church service 7 April in a neighboring town at Colonial Heights Church of the Nazarene.

“Our place of gathering is gone,” Woods told local CBS news. “So, we’re concentrating on moving ahead, because as a church we are a community, not isolated to the Church of the Nazarene or even the church in Hopewell, but we are a worldwide body of Christ that strives to make a difference.”

Prayer is requested for the Hopewell church family.

Canada church provides support for fire victims

A church in Esquimalt, British Columbia, is taking action to support the victims of an apartment fire that took the life of one resident and left more than 100 temporarily homeless.Read more

Canada church provides support for fire victimsEspañol
]
Esquimalt, British Columbia

Esquimalt Church of the Nazarene Pastor Goodwin stands next to piles of donated items. (The Times Colonist photo)

A four-story apartment building caught fire 7 April in Esquimalt, British Columbia, taking the life of one resident and leaving more than 100 temporarily homeless. The Esquimalt Church of the Nazarene is assisting the victims by providing shelter, food, and toiletries.

“We put a lot of personal packages together with toothpaste [and] deodorant [and provided food for the victims],” Esquimalt Pastor Barry Goodwin told Chek news.

Though Goodwin and the other volunteers felt that providing toiletries and food wasn’t much, many of the struggling residents were touched by the church’s efforts.

“He did everything for us, he gave us food and coffee and soft drinks, and this morning he gave us breakfast and lunch in the afternoon,” apartment tenant Rocky D’Agostino told Chek News. “I just can’t say enough for these volunteers; God bless them all.”

The apartment building sustained severe fire, smoke, and water damage throughout, meaning some residents could remain homeless for weeks until the building is deemed safe.

“It’s actually crazy how fast it happened,” apartment tenant Andrea McDonald told CTV News. “I walked out [after the fire alarm went off] and there was flames. I didn’t grab anything. My boyfriend grabbed our cat.”

Some residents lost most of their possessions in the fire and several did not have content insurance. The church has started a fundraiser to help the residents get back on their feet.

“There’s definitely going to be all kinds of needs,” Goodwin told CTV News. “There’s people on pension there and welfare. It’s a low-rental area, and that brings with it its own challenges.”

The local fire department is conducting air quality tests and will alert residents when it’s safe to return. They are still working to determine the cause of the fire.

Prayer is requested for the fire victims.

Trinidad and Tobago youth quizzing event makes Nazarene doctrine fun, memorable

The Trinidad and Tobago District East Zone held a youth Bible quizzing event called Bible Battlemania: Gameshow Edition, a Jeopardy-style trivia game that made learning biblical teaching and Church of the Nazarene doctrine fun and memorable. Read more
Trinidad and Tobago youth quizzing event makes Nazarene doctrine fun, memorable

The Trinidad and Tobago District East Zone held a youth Bible quizzing event 30 March called Bible Battlemania: Gameshow Edition.

Participants came from three of the four zones to compete in a Jeopardy-style trivia event that covered Genesis, Kings of the Bible, The Life of Jesus and New Testament Miracles, General Knowledge, and Nazarene Essentials.

The district Nazarene Youth International team worked with the East Zone President Charissa Sealey and her committee to host the competition and educate district youth on biblical teaching and Church of the Nazarene doctrine in a fun and memorable way.

“[We] thank the NYI leadership and District Superintendent Dr. Victor George ‘for their continuous love, support, and steadfast leadership for and over the youth in Trinidad and Tobago,’” said Augustus Andrews, Mesoamerica Caribbean Field communications.(Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica)

Western Latin America District elects new superintendent

Humberto Mena was elected as the next Western Latin America district superintendent.​ Read more
Western Latin America District elects new superintendent
Selma, California

The Western Latin America District elected Humberto Mena as its next superintendent, effective 2 May. Mena replaces Orlando Serrano, who is retiring after serving as district superintendent for more than 20 years.

Mena currently serves at Selma Church of the Nazarene, a position he has held for 20 years. He will continue service there until he begins his district superintendent role in May.

“It is a privilege to have been elected as district superintendent to serve as a pastor of my colleagues, their families, and the congregations they serve,” Mena said. “I firmly believe in church planting, both in this country as well as abroad. I ask your prayers for God to help us fulfill this beautiful privilege He has bestowed upon us.”

Mena began serving as youth pastor at Belvedere, California, Church of the Nazarene in 1985 after graduating from Nazarene Bible College. Two years later, he moved on to pastor Iglesia del Nazareno in Pasadena, and in 1993 he accepted another pastorate at Echo Park Church of the Nazarene.

Humberto and his wife, Silvia, currently live in Selma, California.

David Mowry elected new Northwest district superintendent

The Northwest District elected David Mowry as its next superintendent. Read more
David Mowry elected new Northwest district superintendent
Twin Falls, Idaho

The Northwest District elected David Mowry as its next superintendent. Mowry current serves as the lead pastor at Twin Falls, Idaho, Church of the Nazarene.

His new assignment will be made effective 11 May. Mowry replaces Randall Craker, who is retiring after serving as district superintendent for nearly 15 years.

Mowry graduated from Northwest Nazarene College (now University) with a Bachelor of Arts in religious education in 1991. Two years later, he began his ministry at Enumclaw Church of the Nazarene in 1993, where he served for three years.

In 1996, Mowry accepted a pastorate at Spokane First Church of the Nazarene. He served there for seven years before moving to Puyallup to pastor the church there for five years. In 2008, he began pastoring at Bethany First Church of the Nazarene.

Mowry and his wife, Melissa, currently live in Twin Falls, Idaho.

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Asia-Pacific

Elpidio Manangan remembered

Retired Metro Manila district superintendent and pastor Elpidio Manangan passed away at the age of 68. Read more
Elpidio Manangan remembered by Steve Walsh, APNTS Alumni Association presidensubmissions
Retired Metro Manila district superintendent and pastor Elpidio Manangan passed away 6 April after a battle with cancer. He was 68 years old.
Elpidio married his wife, Adelina, in 1981, and they had two children, Jim and Naomi. After Elpidio graduated from Philippines Nazarene College, he pastored the Don Benito and Pines City Nazarene churches.

In November 1983, Elpidio was one of the first three full-time students enrolled at Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary, and in 1986, he became the pastor of the Muntinlupa Church of the Nazarene in Metro Manila. In 1988, Elpidio graduated from APNTS with a Master of Divinity degree alongside his wife, who graduated with a Master of Arts in Religious Education.

In 2000, Elpidio was elected superintendent of the Metro Manila District. Later, he became the pastor of the Central Church of the Nazarene in Cubao, Quezon City, eventually transitioning to pastor the Balacag Church of the Nazarene at Pozzorobio, Pangasinan.

In January 2018, Elpidio stepped down from his pastor position at the Balacag church when his poor health prompted his retirement.

“He was one of the pioneers of the Metro Manila District, and a true Nazarene in every way,” said Floyd Cunningham, APNTS president emeritus and founding faculty member of APNTS. “He was a solid, dependable, hearty leader with an open, humble, and teachable spirit. I was privileged to have been his teacher.”

Elpidio is survived by his wife, their two children, and one grandchild.

Prayer is requested for the Manangan family.(Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary via NCN News submissions)

Stories to share? Send an email to news@nazarene.org

Eurasia

Flags of the Nations: Ireland

Each week, the Church of the Nazarene’s Global Ministry Center proudly flies a flag of one of the many nations in which the denomination is present in ministry. This week’s flag: Ireland, Eurasia Region. Click “read more” for information on the country, including what year the denomination entered Ireland and how many Nazarenes are there today.Read more
Flags of the Nations: Ireland
By NCN News Staff | 08 April 2019
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The flag of Ireland is a tricolour of green, white, and orange where green represents the Gaelic tradition of Ireland, orange represents the followers of William of Orange in Ireland, and white represents the aspiration for peace between them.

Since September 1, 2009, the Church of the Nazarene’s Global Ministry Center (GMC) proudly flies a flag each week of one of the many nations in which the denomination is present in ministry. Leaders were invited to send a national flag to be flown at the GMC alongside the flag of the United States*. The national flags rotate weekly, and photos of them raised are sent to the church leaders of that country.

This week: Ireland

The Church of the Nazarene officially entered Ireland in 1987.

Ireland had a population of 5,068,050 in 2018. That same year, Ireland reported one organized Church of the Nazarene. Ireland has 51 total members.

Located on the Eurasia Region, Ireland is a Pioneer Area district. For more information about the Eurasia Region, visit eurasiaregion.org.

* = The weekly highlighted flag is raised on the middle of three poles in compliance with U.S. government protocols. It flies to the left of the GMC host-nation United States flag, which flies above the host-state flag of Kansas. The Christian flag flies on the third pole.

The Global Ministry Center is the mission and service hub of the Church of the Nazarene.

Mesoamerica

Guatemala CCO event teaches obedience to God’s call

Nearly 30 participants from Guatemala and El Salvador attended a cross-cultural orientation that encouraged them to listen to God’s voice and be obedient to His call. Read more
Guatemala CCO event teaches obedience to God’s call
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Guatemala

Nearly 30 participants from Guatemala and El Salvador attended a cross-cultural orientation 30-31 March at the Guatemala North district office.

Participants said it was a special time to hear God’s voice through the testimonies of others and through the preaching of the Word.

“We give glory to God for this new generation of young people who are being obedient to the call of God to make Christlike disciples in the nations,” said Luz Jiménez, North Central Field Global Missions coordinator.

The orientation was made possible by 11 Global Missions coordinators and volunteers who traveled from Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Mexico to organize and host the event.

“I am really happy to see the response of the participants, but it also impacted me to be able to count on the 11 emerging leaders who supported us in this event,” Jiménez said. “All of them traveled long distances in order to serve as volunteers, and I have loved to see their sacrifice and passion for God and missions.”(Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica)

Costa Rica conference unifies national ministries

The Costa Rica Church of the Nazarene held its first National Ministry Conference at the San Pedro de Poás Church of the Nazarene to train local and district leaders on various aspects of the national ministry initiatives. Read more
Costa Rica conference unifies national ministries
By Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica | 12 April 2019
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San Pedro, Costa Rica

The Costa Rica Church of the Nazarene held its first National Ministry Conference 5-7 April at the San Pedro de Poás Church of the Nazarene.

Participants represented Nazarene Youth International, Nazarene Missions International, Sunday School Discipleship Ministries International, and Nazarene Compassionate Ministries.

District superintendents, pastors, and both district and local leaders came to learn from workshops that covered various aspects of theses national ministry initiatives, including Youth Bible Quizzing certification, family care, disaster prevention, first aid, and more.

Each workshop was accompanied by relevant lessons and challenges for the participants. North District Superintendents Johnny Calvo and Central District Superintendent Sirlene Bustos were responsible for sharing the messages during the devotional times.

“Thank the Lord for using our brother and sister to share inspiring, encouraging, and challenging messages for the participants,” said Jorge Baños, Costa Rica national ministry coordinator. “All the glory and honor [goes] to God for this excellent activity, expecting in Him that this will be the first of many in this beautiful land of Costa Rica.”(Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica)

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USA/Canada

Retired missionary Joan Esselstyn remembered

Retired missionary Joan Esselstyn passed away 5 April at the age of 85. She served as a missionary in Africa for 34 years. Read more
Retired missionary Joan Esselstyn remembered
Howard, Ohio

Retired missionary Joan Esselstyn passed away 5 April. She was 85 years old.

Joan was born in 1934 in Heidelberg Township, Pennsylvania, to Casper and Emma Kehm. After graduating from high school, Joan worked for several years for the American Bureau of Shipping before she felt God’s call to be a missionary.

She attended Eastern Nazarene College in Quincy, Massachusetts, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1959. It was at ENC that she met her husband, Ted Esselstyn. They were married in 1958, and after she graduated from ENC, they moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where Ted attended Nazarene Theological Seminary and Joan taught.

In 1961, their first child, Karen, was born. The family returned to Quincy where Joan served as assistant registrar at ENC and Ted taught. The next year, they moved to Connecticut where she taught in Woodbridge and Derby while Ted studied at Yale and pastored the Wallingford Church of the Nazarene.

Their children Barbara and William were born in 1966 and 1968, and after William was born, the family moved to Africa to serve as missionaries.

For 34 years, Joan served with her husband as a teacher and educational administrator throughout sub-Sahara Africa. They started, taught, and assisted in the development of Nazarene colleges in more than a dozen countries, including Africa Nazarene University in Nairobi, Kenya.

They retired in 2002 and moved to Howard, Ohio, serving the Lakeholm Church of the Nazarene and at Mount Vernon Nazarene University.

Joan is survived by her husband; their three children, Karen, Barbara, and William; and their four grandchildren, Brandon, Benjamin, Jacob, and Amy.

Prayer is requested for the Esselstyn family.

Nazarenes in the News

Nazarenes in the News is a compilation of online news articles featuring Nazarene churches or church members. In the news this week: Point Loma Nazarene University alumnus cast as Jasmine in Disney’s Aladdin tour… Maine church provides 5,000 pounds of food through food pantry.​ Read more

Nazarenes in the News
Nazarenes in the News is a compilation of online news articles featuring Nazarene churches or church members.

PLNU alumnus cast as Jasmine in Disney’s touring production of Aladdin

Honolulu, Hawaii

(Hawaii News Now, 9 April) Kaena Kekoa, Point Loma Nazarene University alumnus and arts teacher at Waolani Judd Nazarene School in Nuuanu, Hawaii, was recently cast as Jasmine in Disney’s touring production of Aladdin.

Rehearsals have already begun, and she will make her debut in the role 25 April in Salt Lake City, Utah.

“Being in something this huge is crazy in itself, but Aladdin is something I grew up watching,” Kekoa told Hawaii News Now. “I’m hoping to make Hawaii proud and my family proud.”

For the rest of the story, click here.

Hawaii school teacher cast as female lead in Disney’s touring ‘Aladdin’ production
Hawaii school teacher cast as female lead in Disney’s touring ‘Aladdin’ production
Honolulu-native Kaena Kekoa has been cast as Jasmine in the touring production of Disney’s Aladdin.
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Disney has found a new princess for its touring production of Aladdin ― and she hails from right here in Hawaii.

Disney Theatrical Productions announced this week the casting of Honolulu-native Kaena Kekoa as Jasmine, the female lead in the iconic Middle Eastern folktale. Rehearsals featuring Kekoa have already begun, and she’ll make her debut in the role during an April 25 performance in Salt Lake City.

And that performance won’t just be the first time she appears on stage as Jasmine; the company says it’ll actually be her professional theater debut, too.

“Being in something this huge is crazy in itself, but Aladdin is something I grew up watching,” Kekoa told Hawaii News Now on Tuesday afternoon. “It made it much more emotional. When we were little, singing the songs growing up … just getting the call was a dream come true.”

Kekoa, a graduate of Sacred Hearts Academy, makes her debut as Jasmine later this month.
Kekoa, a graduate of Sacred Hearts Academy, makes her debut as Jasmine later this month. (Kaena Kekoa)
Kekoa says she remembers ‘the call’ well, having received it on a Saturday afternoon after flying to New York City for a final audition.

“There were no words in that very moment. I was immediately crying,” she said. “I broke down, in the corner of my room. (I was) grateful, excited, but nervous, too.”

Kekoa, a graduate of Sacred Hearts Academy who was already making waves in theatrical productions when she was still in high school, was discovered by show producers at an open Disney on Broadway casting call in Honolulu ― one that she and some friends went to “just for fun” before she ended up actually landing the part.

After graduating with a degree in education from Point Loma Nazarene University last spring, Kekoa began working as a performing arts teacher at Waolani Judd Nazarene School in Nuuanu.

After helping guide the school’s dance team and Christmas recitals, she resigned from the teaching job earlier this year to accommodate the play’s production’s schedule ― a bittersweet decision, but one she hopes will eventually launch a successful acting career.

Aladdin is sure to be an eye-opening first national tour for the actress; the production of the play has grossed more than $1 billion since its debut and has been played in front of a collective audience of more than 10 million people during its run.

And as for her April 25 debut as Jasmine?

“I’ll probably be crying most of the time,” said Kekoa. “I know I’ll be full of gratitude. I’m looking forward to that night, and I’m hoping to make Hawaii proud and my family proud.”

This story will be updated.

Copyright 2019 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.

Maine church provides 5,000 pounds of food per month to community

Bethel, Maine

(Sun Journal, 11 April) Bethel Church of the Nazarene in Maine provides an estimated 5,000 pounds of food to as many as 90 families per month through their Bethel Food Pantry ministry.

The pantry also provides weekend meals for the local “BackPack Program,” which helps students who may be underserved at home.

“We want the Bethel community to be a place where everyone can eat healthy food,” said Bonnie Pooley, Bethel Food Pantry coordinator. “If there’s any one goal, it’s that we love this community and we want it to be strong and we want everyone to be taken care of.”

For the rest of the story, click here.

Helping many and wanting to help more
The Bethel Food Pantry has already made in difference for many families in the area and hopes to help more moving forward.

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BY SAMUEL WHEELERTHE BETHEL CITIZEN

Pictured here are some of the items the pantry has. Bethel Citizen photo by Samuel Wheeler

BETHEL — “We need more people to be aware of what’s available here,” Administrator of the Bethel Food Pantry Dave Bean said.

The Pantry is located at the Nazarene Church at 16 Church Street. The main entry (side entrance) has a large sign saying “Bethel Food Pantry” and is located on the Park Street side of the building.

The pantry is open the second Monday of every month from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. If everything is set up before noon, they will open earlier.

The pantry can also be flexible if people cannot make it on Tuesday due to inclement weather or other reasons.

Bean estimated between 70-90 families are helped out each month.

The pantry also provides weekend meals for Crescent Park’s “BackPack Program,” which helps students who may be underserved at home.

The pantry receives most of its food from Maine, and some locally. Both Swain Family Farms and Middle Intervale Farms also donate food to the pantry.

“We want the Bethel community to be a place where everyone can eat healthy food,” coordinator Bonnie Pooley said.

The 31-year-old operation serves 13 towns, large in part from the many people who lend a hand.

Bean said there are nearly 100 volunteers on an email list. The pantry usually needs 22 volunteers to make it through a day. Shifts last between two and three hours long. Volunteers play a huge role in their success, he said.

On a monthly basis, Bean and other volunteers drive to the Good Shepherd Food Bank in Auburn and pick up a truck load of food. They get 5,000 pounds of food a month from the food bank.

The Bethel pantry supports both the Andover and Woodstock pantries whenever they can, said Bean. This means giving the pantries some of the crops that they get from the Good Shepherd Food Bank.

“We’re all going to do better if we help each other,” he said.

The main goal of any pantry is to reach as many underserved people as possible.

According to Feed America, more than 183,000 Maine residents suffer from food insecurity, with over 50,000 being children. In Oxford County, more than 8,000 children and adults are living in food-insecure households.

“If there’s any one goal, it’s that we love this community and we want it to be strong and we want everyone to be taken care of,” Pooley said.

People can reach the pantry by calling 824-0369. To donate, send funds to Bethel Food Pantry P.O. Box 232, Bethel 04217.

Stories to share? Send them to news@nazarene.org.(Compiled by NCN News)

In Memoriam

The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received 8-12 April 2019.Read more

In Memoriam

The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received 8-12 April 2019.

Miriam Ainsworth, 70, of East Corinth, Vermont, passed away 19 January. She was the wife of retired minister James Ainsworth, who served in Vermont and Connecticut.

Joan (Kehm) Esselstyn, 85, of Howard, Ohio, passed away 5 April. She was a retired missionary, serving in South Africa. She is survived by her husband, retired minister, educator, and missionary Ted Esselstyn, who served in South Africa, Ohio, and Massachusetts.

Elpidio Mananga, 68, of Manila, Philippines, passed away 6 April. He was a retired minister and district superintendent, who served in the Philippines and led the Metro Manila District. He is survived by his wife, Adelina.

Ruth Daria (Brannan) Privett, 71, of Paragould, Arkansas, passed away 2 April. She was the wife of minister and evangelist Charles Privett, who is the pastor at Blytheville First Church of the Nazarene.

Fern Scrivner, 102, of Columbia Falls, Montana, passed away 7 April. She was a retired missionary, serving in California. She was preceded in death by her husband, retired minister, educator, and missionary Charles Scrivner, who served in California and New Mexico. Charles Scrivner passed away in 2012

James Tubbs, 88, of Hanford, California, passed away 22 March. He was a retired minister, serving in California. He was preceded in death by his wife, Thelma Tubbs, in November.

William White, 62, of Heppner, Oregon, passed away 5 April. He was the associate pastor at the Heppner Church of the Nazarene. He is survived by his wife, Lore White.

Harrold Williams Sr., 80, of Lapeer, Michigan, passed away 31 March. He was a retired minister, serving in Michigan. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Williams.

For previous editions of In Memoriam, see the “Passings” section by clicking here.

Note: Please join us in prayer for the families who have lost loved ones. Click on names for full stories, funeral information, local online obituaries, and/or guest books (if available). To submit an entry of a minister or church leader, send to news@nazarene.org.(Compiled by NCN News)

GMC employment opportunities

Located in Lenexa, Kansas, the Global Ministry Center is the administrative, mission, and service hub for the Church of the Nazarene’s ministries in 162 world areas. The following positions are available: Read more
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People are our most valued resource. Our committed employees are involved in “Making Christlike Disciples in the Nations” in 162 world areas.

The Global Ministry Center Human Resources Office professionals strive to deliver the highest possible service to our employees and are responsible for the recruitment, placement, and retention of qualified individuals to staff the ministry and administrative positions of the GMC. The many employee services include compensation and benefit administration, payroll, employment, employee relations, training, counseling, organizational communication and events, and workplace programs.

*Volunteer opportunities for GMC ministries are occasionally available. Email jveigl@nazarene.org for details.

Employment Opportunities

Administrative Assistant (Full-time, temporary until August 2021)
General Secretary’s Office
Description: This person will report to the Administrative Director of the General Secretary’s Office, and provide essential support for office coordination, administrative, and financial tasks, as well as assist in the coordination of events as needed.

Administrative Assistant (Full-time)
Global Missions Engagement and Equipping
Description: This person will perform a wide range of complex and confidential administrative and clerical support duties. The position requires excellent computer, communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to provide information and service to a wide range of internal and external contacts. Knowledge of Global Missions policies and procedures, as well as a thorough knowledge of the Church of the Nazarene and its ministries is essential.

Benefits Communication Assistant (Full-time)
Pensions and Benefits USA
Description: This person will focus primarily on the following benefit communication priorities within the P&B office: Lead/manage all communication projects; provide editing and graphic design assistance; provide content for the education/training priorities of internal staff as well as plan participants; ensure that the appropriate P&B office resources and support are provided to complete all assigned communication projects; process customer service inquiries as needed; responsible for monitoring and posting items to P&B USA social media outlets.

Director (Full-time)
Stewardship Development
Description: Reporting to the Global Communications Director, this person will be responsible for daily oversight and administration of pastoral leadership development, resourcing and growing a giving church culture through educational materials and training. This individual will oversee all fundraising, denominational marketing, brand development, and advancement strategies for constituent development and donor care.

Donor Services Administrator (Full-time)
Donor Services
Description: This person will support all donors who are financially supporting a ministry with recurring gifts, pledges, and church giving. Additional duties include gift coding and special projects.

Equipping Coordinator (Full-time)
Global Missions Engagement and Equipping
Description: This person will manage the process of assessment, development, and deployment of candidates into sponsored and global missionary service.

Senior Executive Editor/Writer (Full-time)
Global Communications
Description: Under the oversight of the senior administrative manager, this person will be responsible for the oversight of all publishing operations and web-based resource procurement, vetting, and distribution. This would include, but is not limited to publication origination, material assessment, development, publishing, distribution, and post-production analysis. This position combines the innovativeness of a writer, the practical focus of an operations manager, and the systematic acumen of a content curator. Excellent organizational and leadership skills and extensive problem-solving aptitude are mandatory.

To obtain additional information for GMC positions, please call 913-577-0500 and ask for Human Resources.

JESUS Film Harvest Partners
To learn more about positions available at the JFHP, visit jfhp.org. All positions are located on-site in the Olathe, Kansas, office.

Nazarene Bible College
To learn more about positions available at the NBC Administrative Offices, visit nbc.edu/jobs. All positions are located within the Global Ministry Center in Lenexa, Kansas.

Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, Inc.
To learn more about positions available at Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, Inc., visit ncmi.org. All positions are located within the Global Ministry Center in Lenexa, Kansas.

Nazarene Theological Seminary
To learn more about current positions available at NTS, see the following employment opportunities. All positions are located on-site on the Kansas City, Missouri, campus.

Location of Global Ministry Center Positions
The GMC is the administrative hub for the Church of the Nazarene denominational ministries in 162 world areas. The GMC is conveniently located in Lenexa, Kansas, with easy access to I-35 and I-435 and within short driving distance to Kansas City International airport. All GMC positions report to this location.

Our Non-Discrimination Policy
The Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center offers equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, disability, race, creed, sex, or veteran status. The Global Ministry Center is an “at will” employer.

Our Faith-Based Organization
We are a faith-based organization. Acceptance of our Christian Code of Conduct is required and membership in the Church of the Nazarene is required for certain positions. The GMC and applicable remote work sites are smoke-, alcohol-, and drug-free Christian workplaces.

Application Processing
Our Human Resources Office receives and processes many employment applications annually for a limited number of positions. While we regret that we cannot respond to each applicant, we do contact those individuals possessing the skills, education/training, and experience that best match the requirements of the open position for which the application was submitted.

An application must be completed by all applicants and an application must be completed for each position for which one wishes to be considered. Applications are retained for one year. Resumés are not necessary for entry-level positions, but they are preferred for professional level positions.

Applying for Employment with the GMC
Application forms may be requested by calling 913-577-0500, emailing humanresourcesgroup@nazarene.org, or obtained in person from Human Resources at the Church of the Nazarene Global Ministry Center, 17001 Prairie Star Parkway, Lenexa, Kansas, 66220, Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 4:30 U.S. Central Time. Completed applications may be mailed or emailed to the attention of the Human Resources Office.

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ABOUT US
The Church of the Nazarene is a Protestant Christian church in the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition. Organized in 1908, the denomination is now home to about 2.5 million members worshipping in more than 30,000 local congregations in 162 world areas.

Address:
Church of the Nazarene
Global Ministry Center
17001 Prairie Star Parkway
Lenexa, KS, UStates👽 66220

Phone: 913-577-0500
Email: info@nazarene.org

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