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Summer 2008 • Volume 55 No. 3 USPS 165-700
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Summer 2008 • Volume 55 No. 3USPS 165-700
Christmasa PURSEonable
Marjie Tourville
ministers’ wives retreat
Pennsylvania-Delaware District ConneXions4651 Westport Drive
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Editor: Stephen R. TourvilleManaging Editor: David Crosby Sr
Associate Editor: Carole Bongiorno
Phone (717) 795-5921Fax (717) 795-5928
Email: [email protected]: www.penndel.org
ExEcutivE PrEsbytEry
Stephen R. Tourville, SuperintendentPaul Grabill, Assistant SuperintendentDavid Crosby Sr, Secretary-Treasurer
Jonathan Baker, NC SectionJames Balzano, SCW Section
Christopher Clark, NCW SectionDaniel Clark Sr., SE SectionSteven DeFrain, EC Section William Ellis, SWM Section Donald Immel, SWS Section Jeffrey Kettering, SC Section Kenneth Martin, NW SectionRandall Rhoads, SCE Section
James Rugg, NE Section Timothy Satryan, DEL Section
GEnEral PrEsbytErs
Stephen R. TourvilleDavid Crosby Sr
Bryan Koch
Honorary GEnEral PrEsbytErs
Philip BongiornoJames E. Morris
ConneXions
ConneXions (USPS 165-700) is the official periodical published quarterly by the Pennsylvania-Delaware District
Council of the Assemblies of God. Periodical postage paid at Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.
Circulation stands at approximately 7,500
Summer 2008
POSTMASTER:Send address changes to:
Pennsylvania-Delaware District Council4651 Westport Drive
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055-4887 2 Connexions Summer 2008
On September 24, millions of students around the United States will gather around their flagpoles to ask the Lord to touch their cities and school campuses. You don’t want to miss out on this chance to impact your community! My prayer is that you would be praying for a revolution on your school campus!
For more information contact “See You at the Pole” at 817-HIS-PLAN (447-7526) or check out the website at www.syatp.com.
See YOu AT THe POLe Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Connexions Summer 2008 3
Pastor stePhen tourville, D.Min. superintendent
My library contains several volumes that
address the issues of intelligence. They include
such books as Thinking for a Change by John
Maxwell, Frames of Mind by Howard Gardner,
Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman,
Social Intelligence by Karl Albrecht, Executive
Intelligence by Justin Menkes, The Emotional
Brain by Joseph LeDoux, and Risk Intelligence
by David Apgar (I am not recommending these
books. Some are more helpful than others!).
These are all man’s efforts to understand and
explain the functioning of the human brain and
the intricacies of thought and relationships.
We are complex creatures who defy simplistic
explanations and easy solutions in grasping
the significance of God’s world, word, will, and
ways. The theory of multiple intelligences, as
contrasted to just an IQ (Intelligence Quotient)
test, has provided the understanding that
people come to the table with a wide variety of
abilities that include many different variables.
Followers of Jesus can add the additional area
that includes the development of the spiritual
dimension.
The Bible refers to the importance of being
“transformed by the renewing of your mind”
(Romans 12:2) so that we may take our stand
and prove the will of God. The mind, not just
the brain, plays a significant role in the life
of the believer. For many years, Christians
have feared, for many legitimate reasons, the
dangers of secular education, particularly due
to the influence of humanism, secularism,
pluralism, and many other philosophies that
have undermined the Christian faith and have
shipwrecked the faith of some.
The solution is not to reject education in general
but rather to provide educational options that
will be consistent with our biblical values while
preparing individuals for a life of service to the
Lord within the community where they live.
While the AG has a long history of supporting
missionaries called to cross the seas to reach
the people of the earth, we also need to make
every effort to provide the training needed for
those same Spirit-filled, God-called individuals
that will impact our world and reach the lost
for our Lord. Not everyone needs an advanced
degree, but we should all support those who
serve the body of Christ in training women and
men for the work of the ministry fulfilling either a
secular and sacred calling.
Education is not the solution to all of life’s problems, but ignorance is no solution either.
Doctor of Ministry Graduate
Pastor Steve received a Doctorate of Ministry in Pentecostal Leadership on May 3, 2008 at the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary.
Connexions Summer 20084
Paul e. Grabill, D.Min.
assistant superintendent
I’m a proud graduate of Berean School of the Bible (now Global University).Yes, were it not for a sudden pastoral change
in 1976, I had pretty much decided to complete my credentialing process through Berean. I had finished all the course work for my Certified (then “Christian Workers”) credential in 1975, and was within one course of finishing all the courses for my License in 1976 when the pastor I was serving under resigned.
At that point, my new bride, Arline, and I decided I should probably go back to college and finish my undergraduate degree.
Then I kept going, and going, and going. I jok-ingly told people the motive was to keep deferring my school loans. Actually, that was not totally a joke.
All ministers of the gospel should be lifelong learners, whether they have any degrees to show for it or not. There is no reason for those without degrees to feel insecure because of it; your depth of study shows; you don’t need a sheepskin on the wall to prove it. Billy Graham got by with just a Bachelor’s degree—in anthropology at that!
Yes, it’s true that having an earned gradu-ate degree can open doors in communities like State College, but I still think they’re not all that important for most of us. Jesus didn’t have one, did He ( John 17:5)? Though the heart and the head are both important, there is no doubt which is more important.
There are probably more continuing educa-tion opportunities for pastors today than there ever has been. I can’t understand pastors who hit a personal growth plateau in their early 20’s and hope to somehow get by for another 40 years of
ministry on just what they learned in Bible college or through Berean. Ministry is way too tough to not keep growing. We are walking on a moving sidewalk that is moving toward us, and when we stop, we lose ground.
Now, there is a real danger in continuing educa-tion. Let me offer a word of caution consistent with the 2007 General Council resolution that passed on this issue: There are less than fully accredited degrees that are offered by lower-tier institutions. They will have you do some reading and writing (maybe a long paper on some subject), and have you pay something far less than a fully-accredited institution would charge. Here’s the real problem: If you use that degree as a title (notwith-standing scripture that says, “Call no man rabbi”), you will likely introduce a question of credibility among your colleagues (both in your community and beyond) and your congregation. No one may be brave enough to actually ask you what you did to earn your degree, and you may never know that they are wondering about it or asking others about it. The tragedy is that you spend all that time and money to undermine your credibility rather than enhance it.
If God leads you to pursue formal degrees, as He did me, go for it. I now understand that He did so to prepare me for State College, when I initially was adamant that Berean was good enough for me. If He doesn’t so lead you, great, but make sure that you keep current and well-informed. The world is changing too quickly not to do so.
Doctors who don’t keep current end up hurting people. The same is true with pastors.
A Few Lessons Learned
Doctors who don’t keep current end up hurting
people.
The same is true with
pastors.
Connexions Summer 2008 5
Don Meyer, Ph.D.Guest ContributorPresident of valley Forge Christian College,Phoenixville, Pa
In an article written in USA TODAY (July/August, 2005) Naomi Schaefer Riley coined the term “Higher, Higher Education.” She said, “For most high school seniors, going to a college that bans alcohol and premarital sex, and requires chapel once a week, seems like a raw deal. But the skills students absorb at religious colleges might be giving them an edge in the job market.”
My own academic journey included an A/G college (Central Bible College), an inter-denominational religious graduate school (Wheaton College), and a large secular university (University of Minnesota). The differences between the religious institutions and the secular institution were incalculable.
Riley also said, “Schools with strong faith identities with strict behavioral codes…are not succeeding despite their religious mission, but because of it.” She also describes how professors at these institutions have students “who do the work, and come to class. The students I have observed and interviewed tend to approach their studies with a sense that God is calling them to study hard, to find their vocation.”
Dr. Steve Henderson, President of Christian Consulting, studied the effect that attendance at a secular college or university had on the faith commitment of religious students. He found that after just one year, 52 percent of the religious students no longer practiced the specific religious disciplines he identified. He was not implying that the religious convictions of every student will be
compromised at a secular educational institution but his research certainly documents the lethal risks.
One professor who taught at several Christian and secular universities described the differences this way, “One thing I like about schools like Baylor and Christian institutions generally, is that I don’t have kids coming to class stoned at eleven in the morning.” In religious institutions, business students are taught business ethics; pre-med students have a bio-ethics background; and social concerns are imbedded in the theological underpinnings of the core curriculum.
One of the most important investments a person will ever make is to invest in a quality education. And the greatest cost may not be the cost of tuition. How costly will an education be which lacks a Christian world view or dilutes or distorts the Biblical principles which produce a godly life? Dynamic daily Chapel services, Spirit-anointed professors, and fellow students who share an equal Christian commitment to become men and women of God like those here at VFCC will transform anyone’s life for good. How grateful we are for you, our pastors and churches, who partner with us to help us make that happen.
Higher, higher education. Choose wisely. Think about it.
For more information on Valley Forge Christian College visit us at www.vfcc.edu.
Higher, Higher Education“If you think education is expensive, try ignorance.”
` Derek Bok
Dr. Don Meyer became presi-dent of valley Forge Christian College on January 1, 1997. vFCC is an assemblies of God college located on 106 acres just outside of Philadelphia in his-toric Chester County.
Dr. Meyer began his academic journey at Central bible College in springfield, Mo where he earned a bachelor’s Degree. he went on to earn a M.a. at Wheaton Graduate school in Wheaton, il and his Ph.D. at the university of Minnesota in Minneapolis, Mn.
Dr. Meyer served for 21 years at north Central university (formerly north Central bible College). Prior to accepting the position at nCbC, Dr. Meyer, an ordained assemblies of God minister, pastored for 7 years in Pennsylvania.
Dr. Meyer is a native of lebanon, Pennsylvania. he and his wife evie have two sons Darin (and his wife traci) and Kevin and one grandson, noah.
6 Connexions Summer 2008
DaviD Crosby secretary and treasurer
World Missions
Ministers Transferring Out:ADOUR, Justin (Licensed) – To PotomacALVES, Philip B. (Licensed) – To OhioGAGNE, Steven P. (Licensed) - To MichiganLASURE, William T. (Certified) – To PotomacNELMES, Roger O. (Ordained) – To South TexasROSER, Stephen (Ordained) – To New York
Ministers Transferring In:BURRIS, Bradley (Ordained) – from Southern New England to reside in Houston, PA. Bradley is married to Sandy and they have two sons – Zachary and Joshua.
DRAGT, Jennifer C. (Licensed) – from North Texas to reside in Mechanicsburg, PA. Jennifer serves as assistant director of the School of Ministry at Global Awakening.
ISBISTER, Justin P. (Ordained) – from Peninsular Florida to reside in Chambersburg, PA. Justin is a retired Army Chaplain, is married to Carol, and they have two adult children - Mark and Colleen.
JAYNE, Lisa E. (Licensed) – from Southern Missouri to reside in Pittsburgh, PA. Lisa is serving as the Penn Hills sight director for Network of Hope.
PIPER, Aaron (Certified) – from Potomac to reside in Boynton. Aaron serves as youth pastor at Cornerstone Assembly of God. He is married to Anya and they have four children – Ryan, Elizabeth, Tyler and Hannah.
WHITE, Stephen R. (Ordained) – from North Carolina to reside in Hopeland, PA. Stephen is married to Linda.
Church TransitionsPaul Kemper to Emmanuel Christian Life Church, Harleysville, PA
Christopher Hezlep to Ridgewood Assembly of God, Pittsburgh, PA
James Grove to ReaLife Assembly, Erie, PA.
With The LordJohn DeNicola, age 75, joined the church triumphant on Sunday, March 9, 2008. Rev. DeNicola was a retired ordained minister and served PennDel churches in Waynesburg, Easton, Orbisonia, Bessemer, Grove City and Dexter, Maine. He also served as board vice president of the Woods at Cedar Run, Camp Hill, PA. Rev. DeNicola was the widower of Esther DeNicola. He is survived by Dorothy, his wife; two sons Mark and Eric, a stepson and daughter, three brothers, two sisters and six grandchildren. Rev. Philip Bongiorno and Rev. Wayde Wilson officiated at his services.
Margaret Agnello, age 82, went to be with the Lord on April 4, 2008. Rev. Agnello was a senior-retired ordained minister with the General Council. Her original credential was issued through the Italian District and transferred to PennDel in 1990. Margaret spent the last few years in assisted living in Philadelphia. Rev. George Cunard officiated at her service from the Koller Funeral Home in Roxborough.
About People
New and Upgrade CredentialsCertified Minister:Nicole LinscottShawn GallaKeith SantiagoClayton Steward JrMark Trimble
Licensed Minister:Moses AlemanJason AmentJames BanksJohn BowmanDan BurtonBethany BrianDominick DegilioChristopher GriffinRoger HatfieldHeather HalbfoersterAlfred HuntLisa HuntNicole KammetlerJonathan KellyPaul KemperNathan KollarJamie LevandoskyChristopher MoranteTimothy RobertsYshmael SalasPhilip SinclairKeli TennyChristopher TyersDaniel Young
Specialized Licensed Minister:Jamie AlemanMelissa Beers
• Rev. Paul Grabill was elected as assistant superintendent on the nominating ballot. Rev. Grabill has served in this leadership role for the last eight years and his colleagues have asked him to serve another four year term.
• Rev. Bryan Koch was elected to serve as a General Presbyter. Rev. Koch is lead pastor at Glad Tidings, Reading, PA., and he will represent the PennDel Ministry Network in this capacity as the General Presbyter who also serves as a pastor of a local church. Rev. Koch replaces Rev. Paul Grabill who requested that he not be considered for this leadership role.
• Superintendent Stephen Tourville serves as a General Presbyter by virtue of his office. David Crosby Sr was elected to serve as the third General Presbyter representing the PennDel Ministry Network.
• A resolution prevailed to bring the nomenclature of the PennDel Bylaws into conformity with the General Council Bylaws in regards to the Missionettes name change to Girls Ministry.
• A resolution prevailed approving the PennDel Loan Fund asset transfer to a separate corporation to be known as the Heritage Investment Services Fund, Inc. (H.I.S. Fund).
2008 District Council Business Report
Connexions Summer 2008 7
Our Newest MissionariesDavid and Nancy Cawston have spent the last 41 years in ministry as missionaries, pastors, and church planters. Their background spans the globe serving in many different roles; Director of Teen Challenge Holland, and later European Director of Teen Challenge, Senior Pastors of International
Christian Assembly in Hong Kong, First Assembly of God in Puyallup, Washington, Bethel Church in San Jose, California, and most recently Christian Life Center in Bensalem, Pennsylvania.
Through their many years of ministry the Cawstons’ passion has always been for reaching people with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, whether in missions, pastoring, or evangelism. In early 2007 the Lord began to stir their hearts into a new direction of ministry and returning them to their love for missions.
David and Nancy were approved as Assemblies of God World Missionaries assigned to serve India by encouraging pastors, coaching and mentoring leaders, and connecting resources with the revival in India today.
Come to Bolivia!Cochabamba Bolivia - District MAPS Project
January 24-February 1, 2009
Our PennDel district team will work with Missionaries Steve and Lori Potutschnig on new church construction in Cochabamba, Bolivia. Typical Latin America construction is brick/block, steel, and concrete. There will be work for skilled tradesmen, laborers, single men, single women, and couples. The cost of the mission is $1375 per person which includes airfare, ground transportation, hotel and meals. Not
included is a $100 Bolivian visa purchase which is valid for 5 years. If interested, please contact Dave Crosby Sr at 717.795.5921 or [email protected].
2008 Fall Mission EmphasisThe network sponsored fall missions emphasis takes on a new look. There will be two teams of three missionaries visiting churches in the western and eastern sections of PennDel. Services at the invitation of local pastors will be scheduled for Saturday evening, Sunday morning and evening in participating churches. The World Missions committee has initiated this change to encourage greater participation among our churches.
A Noble effort . . . for A Noble PeoPleTo date the Burkina Faso project stands at $350,000! PennDel churches and individuals have given or made a faith promise of these funds to help build the infrastructure of the Burkina Faso church. The challenge goes out to help us reach our goal of $500,000! The partnership will continue throughout 2008 to raise the additional funds to exceed our goal. We still need commitments to drill water wells, build bush churches, and construct an elementary school. Check the progress of the project and construction at www.penndel.org, click on world missions.
Joshua ProjectLooking for information on world-wide missions? Suggestion: check out the Joshua Project website at joshuaproject.net. The Joshua Project is a research initiative seeking to highlight the ethnic people groups of the world with the least followers of Christ. The purpose is to help bring definition to the unfinished task of the Great Commission.
PennDel Missionary Family NewsPeggy Lamb has been cleared to return to the Philippines following her successful itineration. We anticipate that candidate missionaries – Bettina Weaver, Jeff and Rebecca Wiles, Mike and Debbie Hampton – will have completed their itineration by August and be cleared to begin full-time ministry. Jeff Friedman has completed his itineration and is now engaged in ministry to Jews throughout Europe. Denny and Debbie Seler will have completed a short itineration and begin their new assignment in the Jamaican Bible School. Steve and Lori Potutschnig return to Bolivia in early August to resume their work in Cochabamba. John and Faith Higgins will serve at Trinity Bible College as Missionaries in Residence for the 2008 fall semester. Rick and Lori Wislocky have been reassigned from Hungary to Greece. Rick now serves as pastor of the International Church in Athens, Greece.
TWMS2 – It’s Up To Me!It’s not about me, but it is up to me! The World Missions Summit 2 is a gathering of college students, young adults, church leaders, and those who are abandoned to Jesus’ call to reach the lost around the world. Over 6000 participants are expected to attend TWMS2 that will be held in Cincinnati, Ohio, December 30, 2008 – January 1, 2009. At this historic meeting participants can expect to hear real time reports of what is happening around the world and needs that they can fulfill. Attendees will participate in “Windows To The World” where their senses and emotions will be activated as they experience the smells, sounds, cultures, and challenges in the global regions of the world. Each will be exposed to the multiple facets of Assemblies of God missions works around the globe through engaging exhibits. At the conclusion of TWMS2 those in attendance will be challenged to do their part in expanding the Kingdom of God. Online information at www.ag.org, click world missions.
8 Connexions Summer 2008
toM rees assistant to the superintendent
honor bound Church Planting
and Development
This year features dynamic sessions and workshops!
Dary Northrop: Dary is the Senior Pastor of Timberline Church in Fort Collins, Colorado. His church has been one of the fastest growing churches in America and in 2006 grew by 868 people!
Sam Rijfkogel: God brought Sam to First Assembly of God in Grand rapids, to minister in revival services that lasted nearly three years and over 17,000 people made decisions for Jesus Christ. He now is the Senior Pastor and is having a blast helping people find their sweet spot in the Kingdom.
John Bevere: John Bevere has authored numerous books including “The Bait of Satan.” We are thrilled to have John back with us for an extended session on Saturday morning. John always delivers a powerful message for men with hurt feelings, bruised egos and unfulfilled expectations.
Men of Promise Men of Promise
Christian life assembly, Camp hill, Pa
october 17-18, 2008
High Definition Workshops
Bob Kapp .................. men’s Leadership ........Growing Your men’s ministry
Dan miller ................. Health .........................extending Your Life
James Pauls ............... HonorBound ...............Light for the Lost
Tom Britton ............... Purity ..........................every man’s Battle
rodney murphy ........ Parenting ....................How to be a Great Dad
Bryan Koch ............... Finances ......................How to Get Financially Fit
Wayde Wilson ........... marriage .....................making marriage Work
Jim Comenzo ............ Leadership ..................Leading like Jesus in the Workplace
Jeff Davidson ............ Youth ..........................What every Teenage Guy Needs to Know
Kristian Walker ......... Technology..................Tools for effective ministry
Dary Northrop
Sam Rijfkogel
John Bevere
www.penndel.org/mensministries
HONOrBOuND meN’S CONFereNCe
Bring your
Senior Pastors
for Free!
Connexions Summer 2008 9
A handful of people moved out of a big, old church in north Philly. They left behind a building that had major structural challenges and huge bills. Pews, stained glass windows, copper pipe, and everything else of value had been stolen. The parsonage next door was burned down by a squatter.
As we prepared to close this church in north Philly, who would blame us if we cut our losses and ran?
EXTREME CHURCH MAKEOVER
Resurrection Life Church
Nearing completion and final inspections, the sanctuary is obviously beautiful, and represents a hopeful future for a neighborhood in need of the Gospel message!
In 2006 the building was abandoned and this chapel was a roosting place for more than 50 pigeons.
The difference is striking! The cafeteria-gym will be filled with children during the day, adults studying God’s Word at night, and youth enjoying recreation.
But God spoke to a pastor and his congregation in center city. They were burdened by the more than 300,000 people that lived within two miles of the only Assembly of God Church in the area. They saw the potential beyond the decay. They saw the need and have spent the past three and a half years sacrificing to birth a new church.
This effort to transform this church for the glory of God has been heroic. The congregation of Highway Tabernacle, led by Pastor Otto Wegner, and volunteers from across the nation have transformed this decaying building located at 17th and Tioga Streets into a beautiful ministry center that is nearly complete.
This is a great story that is not yet finished. Your gifts and prayers have sustained them. This fall they invite you to celebrate with them the dedication of Resurrection Life Church beginning the week of September 12.
v
Connexions Summer 200810
Around the Dis t r i c t
Installation – Pastor Robert and Daphne Coutts, Emmanuel A/G, Allentown, PA
David Crosby Jr. – 2008 AGTS Alumnus of the Year
Installation – Pastor Del and Marvina Smith, Christian Life Center, Bensalem, PA
50th Anniversary – Pastor Sean Odelland with
family and Former Pastor Randall Rhoads and
family, Pleasantville A/G, Alum Bank, PA
Installation –
Pastor Mark
and Lori
Ann Knight,
Calvary A/G,
Hanover, PA
Dedication of new building – Pastor Chad and Michele Stoecker, First Assembly of God, Wilkes-Barre, PA
Connexions Summer 2008 11
2008 PennDel MinistriesuMMitCalvary Assembly of God - Dover, DE
Kevin & Tammy Compton
Craig & Bethany Riggle
Ryan & Rachel Coon
Michael & Debra Russell
Tony & Elisha Cruz
Adam Smith
Stephen & Deborah Miller
James Whited, Sr.
2008 Jubilarians 50 years of Ordained Ministy
2008 Ordination Class
F. Eber Reitzel, Thomas Geiger, Clayton Sheridan(Laverne Clute not pictured)
Early registration: Postmarked one week prior $26.00 per person
Home Missions & Ministerial Students (full-time):Registering one-week prior $21.00 per person
Registration at door: $31.00 per person
Register through your church office or contact Heather at 717-795-5921 or [email protected]
Connexions Summer 200812
GeorGe Krebs Christian education
Many times churches and even Christians would never dream of partnering with their local elementary schools. Rick Rusaw, Senior Pastor of Lifebridge Christian Church in Longmont, Colorado and author of “The Externally Focused Church” dared to dream. Rick talks about the church that came alongside of their local elementary school by donating people and resources. They basically just decided to love and serve their local school. When it came time for the school to attribute credit for the positive changes over the past year, the greatest thank you went to the local church.
What a great testimony for the local church to have such a positive influence on the neighborhood school. Rick Rusaw believes in influencing the world in which we live rather than starting our own parallel Christian version of the world. We have had several churches in our own PennDel Ministry Network exert influence on their local education systems.
Ben Wells, who attends Penn’s Valley Assembly of God, has brought a ministry influence to the local school. Ben, who is employed full time with Wegmans’ market and volunteers as the Children’s Pastor, began connecting with the school system as a big brother and meeting with kids for lunch. He later mobilized an effort to offer an extreme kid’s room makeover to a child in their local elementary school. What a statement of care this makes to the school system! Ben also began a cup-stacking program (speedstacks.com) at the local school which opened doors for him to offer an elementary school assembly program that builds Christian character (characterconnex.com).
Debbie Knorr, mom, Children’s Pastor, and Pastor’s wife at Mountain Top Family Center is a part of the local PTA; she demonstrates the love of Christ through serving. Debbie plays the piano for the kindergarten and hosts the school’s field day. Debbie has also used cup stacking as an avenue to reach families in their school. After holding a school assembly on cup-stacking, the school gave permission for the tournament to be held at Mountain Top Family Center. Just imagine what God can do when we build bridges through serving. Ta
kin
g G
od
’s L
ove
to
Sch
oo
l
This year we will combine teacher training and small group
ministry to offer an equipping event that builds Community!
We Build Teachers + Small Groups
BuildinG CommuniTyIn addition to training teachers in children, youth and adult tracks, we will offer six workshops in small group ministry to help your church build community.
This will be an opportunity to interact with leaders who desire to touch lives and make disciples. Onsite lunch will be included.
September 27, 2008West – Monroeville A/G Monroeville, PAOctober 4, 2008East – Glad Tidings A/G
Reading, PA
Here is an opportunity to mentor the hearts and minds of children. Spending time in Junior Bible Quiz. (JBQ) will change lives. Some may think today’s kids just want to be entertained, but kids love Junior Bible Quiz. We are looking for new teams to include in the 2007-2008 season. We have regional representatives who are willing to help you get started. If you would like to talk about starting JBQ in your church, just contact Pastor Trish Gunn at [email protected] or call 302-547-2302.
BibleJunior
QuizOfficial League Meets
Meet #1 October 14, 2008 Meet #2 November 11, 2008 Meet #3 January 13, 2009 Semi-finals January 26, 2009 Finals February 13 & 14, 2009
KRISTIAN WALKER
KRISTIAN WALKER
KRISTIAN WALKER
CHRISTIAN LIFE ASSEMBLY
GEORGE FURLOW
S p e c i a l G u e s t s :
September 26 & 27Chr is t ian L i fe Assembly - Camp Hi l l , PA
General sessions with engaging keynote speakersTimes of powerful and refreshing worship Breakout workshops hitting 4 main tracks: WORSHIP LEADER WORSHIP TEAM MEMBER MEDIA/TECHNICAL PERSONNEL MUSIC ADMINISTRATION/ORGANIZATION MUSIC ADMINISTRATION/ORGANIZATIONFRIDAY NIGHT LIVE- Phillips, Craig & Dean concert
Young adults, must be adventurous, passionate for the lost, and willing to be His hands and feet. Must be willing to travel to New York City.
Partner with us as we travel to New York City for a compassion filled weekend. We will minister to the poor and homeless on the streets every evening and feed thousands a Thanksgiving dinner at various city locations.
When: November 21-23
Location: New York School of Urban Ministry (NYSUM) in Queens
Housing: Dormitory style rooms at NYSUM
Investment: Early Registration $175 before October 14, $185 after October 14
Wanted:
Mission’s Trip Opportunity
Connexions Summer 200814
DouG sayers youth
www.penndelyouth.comFIRST PLACE WINNEREverson Berringer from Woodland, PA. Everson attends Glad Tidings Assembly of God in Clearfield, PA. This fall Everson will attend Valley Forge Christian College. He received a $1,000.00 scholarship.
SECOND PLACE WINNERAllison Williams from Myerstown, PA. Allison attends Tri-County Worship Center in Bethel, PA. Allison will attend Vanguard University this fall. She received a $750.00 scholarship.
THIRD PLACE WINNERElissa Seaburg from Columbia, PA. Elissa attends Victory Church in Lancaster, PA. This fall Elissa will attend Valley Forge Christian College. She received a $500.00 scholarship.
Congratulations To The 2008 Distr ict Youth Scholarship recipients
Bible QuizTraining Camp This year the Bible Quiz Training Camp is August 14-16, 2008, at the Philip Bongiorno Conference Center in Carlisle, PA. This three-day camp
offers practical hands-on experiences that will prepare veteran quizzers for the new season, as well as help train first time quizzers and coaches. For $79, both teens and adults will receive housing and meals, instruction on Bible Quiz techniques, quizzing, coaching, officiating, and more. Whether your church has a Bible Quiz team, is planning to start a quiz ministry, or is wanting to learn more about Bible Quizzing, you will benefit from the experience of BQ Camp! The deadline is August 7th and this camp is limited to 225 people, so send in your registration today!
Bible QuizReigional Finals Congratulations to the PennDel Bible Quiz teams that competed in the Northeast Regional Bible Quiz finals. Placing in the top 10 of the A division was:
•JourneyChurchinBridgeville,PA–5thplace
•EvangelHeightsAssemblyofGodinSarver,PA–7thplace
•CrosswayAssemblyofGodinValencia,PA–12thplace
•GraceAssemblyofGodinSpringCity,PA–13thplace
•StateCollegeAssemblyofGodinStateCollege,PA–15thplace
•ChristianLifeAssemblyofGodinCampHill,PA–16thplace
Congratulations to Grant Warnock from Journey Church who was the number 1 quizzer earning a total of 2120 points, averaging 124.71 points per round; and to the Novice team from South Hills Assembly of God for placing second in the Novice division. We are very proud of these students’ accomplishments as they memorize the Word of God!
Discount Hersheypark Tickets Available
Whether you need Hersheypark tickets for your family
or for your group, you can purchase them from
PennDel Youth ministries for $30.00 (ages 9-54) and
$25.00 (ages 3-8 and 55+) until our discounted supply
is gone. Please send a check (made payable to
PennDel District Council) for the full payment along
with a self-addressed stamped envelope to: Park Days
2008, 4651 Westport Dr., mechanicsburg, PA, 17055.
Connexions Summer 2008 15
Jason laMer youth alive
We’d love to partner with you in building a bridge to the schools of your community. For booking or informa tion, contact 717.795.9780 or email [email protected].
Invading or Investing?Partnering together for a common goal is the best way to accomplish any task. When it comes to reaching the students of Pennsylvania and Delaware this is absolutely true, and for that reason schools are our partners. It is easy for us to sometimes view the public school as a piece of property that needs to be invaded or overtaken. But like the church, schools are not simply buildings with public deeds. Instead they are people from our communities. They are students, teachers, faculty and administrators we call neighbors. There for we must build a bridge of partnership that allows us the church to serve with them and for them. This type of relationship will produce much more opportunity for ministry.
Along with providing a short-term missions trip for local students, the Seven Project also provides a partnering relationship with the local schools. This past school year the Seven Project has partnered with 5 schools and strong bridges were built in the process. Instead of attacking and invading, let’s partner and invest. Remember, ministry is 100% relational. What type of relationship are you building with the schools of your community?
“Making an impact on the lives of students is what we desire
to do as educators. The Seven Project presentation was right on
the mark. Your program reinforced the fact that we must not
only enhance the academic potential of our students, but provide
them with opportunities to grow as young men and women. We
also feel it is our responsibility to provide them with the skills
and tools to be productive members of our society and the Seven
Project was exactly what we were looking for.”
Russell E. Greenholt Principal, Bermudian Springs High School
Connexions Summer 200816
Jason FitCh Guest Contributor
lead Director,Gettysburg Master’s
Commission
As I near the end of my first decade in ministry I thank God for many things, but one of the greatest is my time of preparation at VFCC before anyone knew me as their pastor. The faculty, staff and even my peers
challenged me and helped me to grow in ways I never could have dreamed of had I simply followed my calling straight into ministry.
Well, fast forward nine years and here I am with the honor of working on the other side of the process. As lead director at Gettysburg Master’s Commission, I’m now the one challenging and building the next generation of leaders, both for the church and the world at large.
What is Gettysburg Master’s Commission? Gettysburg Master’s Commission is a two year program that exists to build men and women of great character, ready for leadership in both the Christian and secular world. We’re part of a world-wide network of church-based programs whose focus and goals are very similar.
Why should you consider sending young people from your church? Because it’s a solid academic program with hands on leadership training. It there was one area in which I felt ill-prepared for as I transitioned from college to ministry it was that of practical experience. The ratio of classroom work to hands on ministry at GMC is about 50/50. Students are enrolled on a part-time basis at VFCC via our Gettysburg extension arrangement, but they also are heavily involved in church ministry, outreach and traveling ministry. Another reason to consider GMC is the cost. Because the facilities and student housing are underwritten by the church and its congregation, compared with the average college experience GMC is gen-erally about one quarter the price per year. As time goes on, this aspect seems to be more and more important, for both students and their parents.
Please contact us via our website www.gettysburgmc.com. We would love to speak to you and students from your church about the potential Gettysburg Master’s Commission may unlock for them and this world who is badly in need of leaders who will rise to the occasion.
Jason lives in Hanover, PA with
his wife of 10 years, Sara,
and their three boys, Colin,
Liam and Ethan. Jason is a
1999 graduate of Valley Forge
Christian College where he
majored in youth ministry and
minored in counseling. He has
been a full-time staff pastor at
Freedom Valley Worship Center
ever since. He served first as
youth pastor and more recently
in an oversight and coaching
role for the church’s kids and
youth ministries and Gettysburg
Master’s Commission. Jason
is a licensed minister with the
PennDel Ministry Network.
Preparing for a life of service: A n a l t e r n a t i v e p a t h
Studenttuitionfor08-09termis$5,500
Withover100graduatesinthe
past 8 years, we have seen GMC
grads take on pastoring positions
with great success, start new
evangelistic ministries and work
in secular leadership positions.
After two years at GMC
a student will have all
the necessary academic
credits to take the A/G
certification exam.
17Connexions Summer 2008
GreG sCott royal rangers
Soon our Royal Ranger boys will be heading back to school and back into the classroom, but let’s be careful not to make our outpost meetings like being in school. Since its inception in 1962, Royal Rangers has been at its core an outdoor, action-oriented program. Our aim is “to instruct, challenge, and inspire our boys in the areas of Bible doctrine, Christian service, moral conduct, and basic beliefs of our church through interesting activities the boys enjoy.” Notice I said “interesting activities the boys enjoy”. Too often we find ourselves running our outpost meetings like the school classroom, lecturing our boys while they write or fill in the blanks. Does that sound like an
interesting activity to you?
Our leader’s guides describe Royal Rangers as “an action-packed, life-changing ministry to boys of all ages”, with weekly
meetings “filled with the activities, camaraderie, and spiritual challenge that boys need.” It has long been
understood that boys need activity and learn best in an environment rich with hands-on activities and student participation. It is, therefore, essential that the weekly Royal Rangers meeting be a place where
boys are given the opportunity to learn by interactive means and to be directly involved in a variety of physical
activities. Lecture sessions where the boys’ primary means of participation is limited to listening and writing should be avoided.
It is essential that we utilize methods of instruction that are most effective for teaching boys.
With these thoughts in mind, consider the following as tips and alternatives when teaching your next weekly meeting:
• Whenever possible, complete merit requirements orally as a group rather than in written format. Requirements beginning with words like explain, list, or tell do not need to be completed in written format but may be completed as a group. Every boy present may then receive credit for having completed that requirement.
• Allow essay requirements to be satisfied orally by short individual presentations to the group.
• Look for ways to get the boys physically involved in the learning process. Requirements that begin with demonstrate should always involve physical activity not merely explaining or writing a response.
• Provide opportunities for the boys to complete requirements as a group or patrol. Interaction with friends makes any task more fun and enhances
learning for everyone.
The bottom line is that it is our responsibility to provide our boys with an “action-packed, life-changing ministry”. If we are not doing that, then they may find it somewhere else where they may not be getting the personal
growth and achievement to help them grow daily into the image of Christ. Make your meetings interactive. Get the boys involved
in doing activities outside the classroom that are exciting, physical and challenging. Put some thought into your meetings and activities and don’t allow yourself to fall into the trap of taking the easy way out. The boys don’t want to
feel like they are in school after having just left school earlier in the day or week. Try it and watch your program grow.
Coming events in 2008:District BB Gun Competition
Newport A/G, Newport, PAJuly 26
District Roundtable MeetingChristian Life Assembly, Camp Hill, PA
August 2
West Division Fall CamporeeLaurel Hill State Park, PA
September 19-21
east Division Fall CamporeeCamp Bashore, PASeptember 26-28
George Washington Chapter FCF Fall Trace
Honey Grove, PAOctober 24-26
District RoTY TestingChristian Life Assembly, Camp Hill, PA
Oct. 31 – Nov. 1
Back to school and back to the classroom, OUCH!
The answer is to go “Back to the Classroom” and train your leaders to serve creatively and effectively. Try out these leadership products …
18 Connexions Summer 2008
ruth Puleo Women of Purpose
[email protected] Place to Begin
A Place to Begin was written to help discover or revitalize Women’s Ministries in the local church. It provides step-by-step instructions, organizational charts, material lists, training and meeting ideas, surveys, gifts profile and more. Order yours by phone at 800-641-4310 or online www.womensministriesunlimited.ag.org/resources/products.cfmor.
A Leader’s Guide for Successfully Ministering to Women
Equip women of all ages to be influential leaders in their local community with A Leader’s Guide for Successfully Ministering to Women. Ground your leadership team in the fivefold Women’s Ministries purpose of reaching, discipling, building, developing and training with this easy-to-use training manual. Perfect for group or individual training. Also available in a Spanish language version.
Leader’s Guide for Successfully Ministering to Women Video
Use this video to train your women individually in the comfort of their own homes or as a group. A great resource for efficiently training leaders before placing them in leadership roles. Each participant must have her own Leader’s Guide for Successfully Ministering to Women, to complete training. GPH item number 735315. Order yours by phone at 800-641-4310 or online www.womensministriesunlimited.ag.org/resources/products.cfmor.
Teach What We Learn Starting a new group? Reviving a dying ministry? Needing a fresh look?
Ask these churches
…they took the Leadership Training
Coursein2008
Faith Assembly – Uniontown, PA (12 ladies)
Calvary Chapel – Philadelphia, PA (1 lady)
Bethel Assembly of God – Carlisle, PA (3 ladies)
Hershey Lodge and Convention CenterNovember 14, 2008 • 9-11 amQuestion and Answer time with Kay ArthurFor more information or to register visit www.penndelwomenofpurpose.org
L eaders T ime Apar t“Leaving A Legacy”
Questions must be emailed by October 17 to:[email protected] $18 by October 29 or $23 on-site
Kay Arthur
Women of Purpose Conference
TEACH what we learn to others
Connexions Summer 2008 19
sharon Poole Girls Ministries
Missionettes Magnified • April 18-19
Speaker Candy Tolbert National Girls Ministries Director
Having two children who recently graduated from college, I understand the importance of higher education. In our world, education often is the entity that gives an individual integrity. Others will respect and adhere to the voice of education. There is no doubt that education is a necessity today.
Hanging in my dining room is a large diploma from Penn Township Public Schools. It is dated April 30, 1909. It is the eighth grade diploma for my grandfather, James A. Clayton. “Papa” only went as far as the eighth grade. After that he had to find employment to help support his family. Eventually he became a foreman in a shop that made air and gas compressors and steam turbines. With only an eighth grade education, Papa taught many men what to do in the shop. He knew a little bit about everything. In fact, one time he told me that he knew how to fix everything but teeth and broken balloons! (I told him not to worry – I could fix the balloons!) He truly was the smartest man I have ever met. And he never missed an opportunity to teach. Whether it was the men in the shop, or the many young men who he taught in Sunday School at the Jeannette Assembly of God, Papa always found time to explain and show a lesson.
To have the opportunity to educate is one of the greatest gifts and mandates that God has given to us. Throughout the Old Testament, God tells the Israelites to educate their children. In Deuteronomy 11:18-19 God tells them, “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”
As I read through scripture, I know that God intended for us to learn as much as we can. And He meant for us to TEACH what we learn to others. Higher education is not the only (nor the most important) education. I believe the most important education is the teaching that we pass on to our children, and to their children. Studies tell us that a child learns more in the first five years of his life than all the other years combined! Education must not be just the time set aside for school. With our children we must be “talking with them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up”.
Teach What We Learn
Tim & Katie Bennett provided worship
The most important education is the teaching
that we pass on to our children...
4651 Westport Drive Mechanicsburg, PA 17055-4887
The initial interest rate on all Notes will depend on the effective interest rates at the time of purchase. Terms Notes pay interest at a rate fixed at the time of issuance. Once fixed, the interest rate on a Term Note will not be changed until the Note matures. At least thirty (30) days prior to any decrease in the interest rate on a Demand Note, the Loan Fund will notify the holder of such change.
This information is neither an offer to sell nor a solicita-tion of an offer to buy these securities. The offering is made only by the prospectus. These unsecured debt securities are NOT available to residents outside of Pennsylvania or Delaware. The notes are not savings or deposit accounts or other obligations of a bank and are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, any state bank insurance fund, the Securities Investor Protection Corporation or any other governmental agency.
Current Rates($500.00 Minimum investment)
Demand note .........3.50%6 Month note ........3.75%1 year note ............4.00%2 1/2 year note ......4.50%4 year note ............5.25%
What has changed? Our Name-Our Logo-Our Phone Number-Our E-mail Address.
What hasn’t changed? Our commitment to provide financing for the building and expansion of churches throughout the PennDel District; Our commitment to provide a safe and competitive return to all of our investors; and our commitment to provide an outstanding level of service to all of our customers.
PennDel Loan Fund is now Heritage Investment Services Fund!
(HIS Fund)
HIS FUND
HERITAGE INVESTMENTSERVICES FUND
An investment that works
An investment that works
HIS Fund-An investment that works!For additional information, contact us at 717-796-9784 or toll-free at 1-866-219-0820.
Visit our website at www.HISFund.com.
On July 1, 2008 the PennDel Loan Fund became a separate
nonprofit corporation serving the PennDel District.
PhiliP bonGiorno Chairman and President
MiChael bonGiorno Chief executive officer
Denise FolK administrative assistant
