- Apostolic Christian Church of America
Transcription
- Apostolic Christian Church of America
Vol. 70, #10 Oct. 2015 “In the midst … was there the tree of life … and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.” Revelations 22:2-4 INSIDE THIS ISSUE Choosing a Career page 3 Monthly Sermon page 4 Haiti Water Aid page 6 Establishing Churches page 7 The Church and Singleness page 8 Remembering Our Spiritual Heritage page 70 The Light of Hope page 71 To Our Readers Correspondence For November issue (news from Sept 16-Oct 15) Due: October 20, 2015 Rejoicing in the Harvest Autumn is a time for reaping. Many of our rural brethren are busy bringing in the crops. With some areas getting too much rain this summer, the harvest may be meager. Other farmers will reap in abundance. The Silver Lining 1523 County Road 400N Congerville, IL 61729 USPS 496780 Published Monthly by the Apostolic Thankfully, our spiritual fruit is not dependent on the vagaries of earthly weather, but on our relationship with Christ. If we abide in Him, we will bring forth much fruit (John 15.5) and be motivated to plant the Word into the lives of others. Some of us are called to plant, others to water, but we know that ultimately God provides the increase in the hearts of men (1 Cor. 3.7). And that leads to the most wonderful harvest of all. Christian Church of America Humbly, Send correspondence to: Counselors: Tom Stock, Rick Plattner Official Apostolic Christian Church Website: www.apostolicchristian.org editor@acsilverlining.org Silver Lining Counseling Elders Rick Plattner and Tom Stock (email is preferred) The Silver Lining 1523 County Road 400N Congerville, IL 61729 Ph: 309-657-4455 Periodical non-profit postage paid at Roanoke, IL 61561 and additional The Silver Lining subscriptions are due from the following churches: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Alto Athens Iowa City South Ft. Myers Washington Suggested donation: $18/subscription. Send all payments to: Apostolic Christian Publications P.O. Box 52 Eureka, IL 61530 Front cover: Fall colors, Sis. Donna Dotterer, Akron, OH Back cover: Fall ablaze, Bro. Eric Virkler, Rockville, CT 2 SILVER LINING October 2015 post offices. The subscription rate is a donation. Send zip number with address. Remember to send changes of address. Send both old and new addresses (with both zips). Postmaster send address changes to: The Silver Lining 1523 County Road 400N Congerville, IL 61729 Writings based on God’s Word Light from the Word Choosing a Career “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men” 1 Perhaps it seems a little out of the ordinary to think of offering deeds of service through the work we choose to do. But for the typical American adult working a full time job, it is likely that a minimum of 35% of waking hours are spent at work. With a willing heart, that many hours can be an outstanding opportunity to show the love of Christ through service to others. Attitudes about work differ from culture to culture. Some view work as a necessary evil and attempt to diminish it as much as possible. Others honor work as a noble endeavor and build their life around it. Typical hours worked vary by nation from a low of less than 1400 hours per year to a high of over 2200 hours per year. The U.S. falls roughly in the middle at just under 1800 hours per year. If one’s attitude is that work is a joy and therefore to be performed with energy and passion, it will likely feel natural to work with an attitude of service towards others. However, if one believes that work is a necessary evil and not to be enjoyed, it will seem difficult to have an attitude of service. In similar fashion, if one’s God-given gifts match well with his career, it will be easy to serve others. If, however, one’s work does not mesh well with the talents and abilities that God has given them, it will likely be no small task to cheerfully serve others. What does the Bible say about work? First and foremost, as is often the case with God’s instructions to men, there is a balance in the Bible that directs us away from extremes. We are taught by Jesus to, “Take no thought for the morrow,”2 as He encouraged the disciples to trust God to provide food and raiment.3 Jesus also made God’s work a priority in His life– even when He was just 12 years old.4 In Proverbs we are taught to observe how the ants work and to be diligent when it is a time of plenty so that we will have in time of need.5 We are also encouraged in Proverbs to first build a barn and prepare for winter and afterward build a house6 –prioritizing preparation for the future over comfort. Paul the Apostle made it clear to the Thessalonian church that working was a duty of each one and if one would not work, neither should he eat.7 He exhorts all to work so that we can walk honestly before the unbelievers and that we would lack nothing.8 He notes that he labored and travailed (worked) night and day so that he would not have to depend on anyone9 and that while fulfilling his God-given mission to take the Gospel to the Gentiles. (Note: Paul also made it clear that he took a stipend of other churches in order to avoid being a burden on the Corinthian church.10) In assessing the whole counsel of God, we find that it is: appropriate to work, to be diligent in that work, but not to worry and fret about the future. Beyond that, we find that we are to serve in our work with the mind of Christ. “Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God: And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.”11 Thinking as Jesus did is not natural to the human mind. Only if we are walking in the Spirit can we hope to have the mind of Christ. These Scriptures and this truth call us to avoid the common scenario in which work is compartmentalized and our life of faith is kept separate–to be practiced at church and at home. To the contrary, we are called to incorporate our willingness to walk in the Spirit into our work in singleness of heart, fearing God. We are called to demonstrate our faith in God by working heartily as to the Lord and not to man. And we are called to do — Please turn to pg. 63 October 2015 SILVER LINING 3 Monthly Sermon Sermon by Bro. Rick Kaisner, Chicago, IL Psalm 46 & St. Mark 6:30-56 Greetings to each and every one this morning. As we sang that hymn, blessed, holy is the hour when we Jesus think of Thee (Zion’s Harp #218), I thought to myself, do I think of Jesus every hour and therefore bless my entire day, or do I just think of Him at this hour on a Sunday morning? We sit in the assembly room for an hour plus or minus a little bit and is that the only time that’s a blessed hour? Jesus says whenever we call on Him, He’ll answer us (Jeremiah 33:3). So we have that assurance this morning that I can stay here, that we can sit here, and we can hear the Spirit move through the Word. I haven’t been in this church very often. As a child I came more frequently to the old church. I haven’t been here that much. I can stand up here and be fearful of what I’m doing, but I’m not. I’m fearful of what God might do through me and how His power might use me, but I’m not fearful of the audience. I’m not fearful of this place because I know the Spirit’s here. He can work in my fumbling words. He can work in what I say incorrectly to use it for His good. So be prayerful as we open the Word that it’s not me that you listen to but rather the Spirit that speaks through the Word and perhaps through me. So may God’s will be done as we read this morning. Let’s open and see what He has for us here. We see the word ‘Selah’. We’re not really sure what that means, but we studied Psalms in our Bible Class last year. One of the definitions we clung to was “pause and consider”. So when you read a section of Scripture and it says ‘Selah’, pause and consider what we’ve read. Here we have just a few short verses, just eleven of them, and three times the psalmist says, if that’s what that word means, pause and consider. We think of the 4 SILVER LINING October 2015 beginning and he talks about how the mountains are troubled and the earth shakes and the swelling therefore, but God is our refuge and our strength. Think about it! Think about how great that is! When everything around us is just not going right — we’ve all have busy weeks in front of us or behind us and we have times when things go well and things do not. In the midst of that, do we pause and consider that God is our refuge and our strength? Even if the earth quakes around us? We live in the Midwest. Rarely does that happen. When it does it’s more of a novelty than something to be feared, but occasionally we’ve maybe felt the earth tremble. We pause and think God is our refuge and our strength! If we’re in part of the world, perhaps in Haiti which not too many years ago was decimated by an earthquake, it might be a little different ballgame. We would have to really think about these words, but let’s take counsel in this now. Let’s be rejoicing in these words now and have them seeded deep in our heart that when something happens, we can say God is our refuge and our strength. The next section he talks about a river and “the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High” (v.4). It talks about this city and it says “The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge” (v.7). Pause and consider all that He has provided, all that is around us, and He is still our refuge. All of the things that could draw us away but He is still our refuge. We can put our faith in the fact that our car was going to get us here this morning. We’ve had a busy weekend. We’ve traveled to Central Illinois. We had a potluck last night, and then we came here today. We trusted the whole time that our car would get us here. It doesn’t matter because it’s just a car and a vehicle and if we sat by the side of the road, we’d be able to pause and consider that God is our refuge. He provides and that was His desire that we would sit by the road. It was His desire that this would befall us or that would befall us. God is our refuge. We come to the last section. I guess as I read this I thought of the world we live in today. It seems like from one place to another we just see wars — wars amongst people, wars that we as a country get involved with from a distance, wars where tribes in Africa are fighting with each other that we don’t hear much about, countries that are in civil war we hear lots about but our country has stayed away from. There are wars all over, but he says, “He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire” (v.9). Then I like this next verse because it’s just broken into a lot of little segments for us to pause and consider. “Be still, and know that I am God” (v.10). How often do we sit and be still and just listen for God? How often do you take time out of your busy day to sit and be still? I will regrettably admit not as often as I should. I regrettably admit it’s not as often as I need too. When in the midst of turmoil at work or turmoil at home — I have two small children. When the children aren’t behaving like we want them too, it’s hard to pause and remember that God is our refuge and our strength and to remember that He is there, to just be still! There’s always action when there’s two under the age of three. There’s always something going on but to pause and be still and know that God is there. “I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth” (v.10). God will be exalted. We look around us and see these wars and see people who in the name of Allah, who they would call God, doing things that are not right. There are people who call themselves Christians who do things in God’s name. He said, no! Even amongst the heathen God will be exalted. Even those who do terrible deeds He will be made known — somehow, someway, where we don’t see it. “The LORD of hosts is with us” (v.11). He’s here. Where two or more are gathered in His name, there He will be in the midst (St. Matthew 18:20). Way more than two here but we know He’s here. We can trust He’s in the midst. “The God of Jacob is our refuge” (v.11). Pause and consider. The God of Jacob is our refuge. Again and again those words came up. I think of the hymn this morning that opened up to me How Shall It Be (Zion’s Harp #146)? We think about the fact that in these times God is our refuge and our strength. How shall it be in all these different instances, from these weary wanderings, the verse says? How shall it be when can sit in heaven some day and endlessly pause and consider that God is our refuge and our strength? Let’s worship Him with this hymn this morning and think of our God and how He is our refuge and our strength. I haven’t had the opportunity to stand and bring forth God’s Word all that long, but I often smile at the times the same Scriptures seem to open to me. I kind of pause and think — God, what am I missing? Why is it that these Scriptures open again and again? Maybe He’s given them because I feel a comfort in reading words I’ve already read before. Maybe there’s something I’m missing. I don’t know why, but in front of us is Mark 6 — the feeding of the 5,000, Jesus walking on water, two of the stories that are in this. I love this story. I often ask the congregation at home and in those places that I’ve had the opportunity to read the Word to step back if you can. I just remarked on Wednesday night to a sister in Chicago that I feel we have a disadvantage that we know the entire story of the Bible. The disadvantage is we read this and we read of these disciples and the people who saw Jesus. We’ve lost some of the awe of what happened! When we read this passage of the feeding of 5,000, instantly when I said those words I would venture to guess — Please turn to pg. 65 October 2015 SILVER LINING 5 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. – Galatians 6:10 Haiti Water Aid Providing clean water in the name of Jesus “And God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water: and she went, and filled the bottle with water, and gave the lad drink” Genesis 21: 19 Can you imagine walking a mile or more just to get water for your daily needs such as drinking? Here in America we just turn the faucet in our homes and out pours clean water! But most Haitians rely on community wells for their water and the well may be far away. So it is tempting for them to take their water from a contaminated source such as a stream. Almost every stream you cross in Haiti has animals using it and also people using it for washing clothes, dishes, cars, and bathing. This contributes greatly to Haiti’s health problems. World Relief’s Haiti Water Aid has drilled over 900 wells in the past 25 years near Les Cayes in southern Haiti to help ease this need for clean water. Sturdy hand pumps that say “IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST” on them are installed on the wells. These pumps are built by our brethren in Indiana. But even with all these wells there is still a great need for more wells to be drilled. HWA Mission Statement “The mission of Haiti Water Aid is to provide needy Haitians with good clean water within reasonable 6 SILVER LINING October 2015 walking distance. Knowing the problems of unsafe drinking water, we wish to provide drilling equipment, supplies, and training of the Haitians to drill wells for themselves. We do this in the name of Jesus Christ.” Haitian Drilling Team Providing more wells is where our Haitian drilling team comes in. There is an old saying, “Give a person a fish and you feed him for a day – teach him to fish and you feed him for a lifetime”. World Relief has provided this Haiti Water Aid mission with a large rotary drill rig, and provides the supplies needed to drill over 50 wells per year. Two sea containers per year are sent to Haiti with drilling supplies. Five Haitians have been trained to drill the wells. They are wonderful Christian examples for Haiti and very good at drilling wells. They operate the equipment to drill wells without our assistance when we are not there. They also repair the wells if they fail. Three Water Aid mission trips are planned every year in November, January, and March to help them maintain their equipment and assist with the drilling. It is a wonderful and rewarding experience to work with these dedicated Haitians. About the mission This mission started with a small trailer-mounted drilling rig in 1985 drilling only a few wells per year. In 2004 a large truck-mounted modern drill rig was reconditioned and sent to Haiti. Production has increased considerably over the years and they now drill about one well every week. The community receiving the well pays part of the cost of the well. This pays the — Please turn to pg. 63 ...The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. – Matthew 9:37-38 Establishing Churches We are humbled to share the work that God is undertaking through the Church Establishment Committee (CEC), a sub-Committee of the Mission Committee. We are encouraged and thankful to see how God has opened doors and continues to prepare the way for the gospel message of salvation to be proclaimed. The CEC was recently formed as a new committee from the merger of the Small Church Support Committee (SCSC) and the Church Planting and Development Committee (CPDC). The charter of this Committee includes delivering resources, services and tools to 1) establish new Apostolic Christian Churches and 2) assess the needs of and bolster our smaller congregations. The goal is to assist the churches to become self-sustaining, thriving churches which exalt Christ through actively living our Four Pillar Mission Statement -- sharing the gospel with the lost, nurturing the believers, contending for the faith and preserving sound doctrine, and meeting the needs of the community through acts of service. God’s Work in our Smaller Churches Through studying the scriptures and a historical review of small churches started within the past fifty years, four key attributes have been identified as being necessary for congregations to thrive -- 1) a group of believers large enough to be self-supporting (critical mass) 2) local ministry and leadership 3) common purpose or vision and 4) a deep and abiding love for God, His commandments, and each other. Small churches that have not fully developed these attributes have struggled to become established. With this context, the CEC has developed a framework to help bolster our existing small churches: • A committee specific to each location, called the Church Assistance Committee (CAC) will be named to come alongside the congregation to help guide and strengthen the bolstering efforts. Each CAC consists of an overseeing elder, local ministering brother (if present), one or two brothers from larger churches and up to three brothers from the CEC. • The CAC will begin by walking with the local church through an assessment of their needs, strengths, and weaknesses related to the Four Pillar Mission. • A local church vision may be developed. • Once needs are determined external resources required will be identified. The CAC will work with the integrated World Relief and Mission Committee organization to communicate specific needs to the brotherhood, trusting God to move within our brethren. • If brethren are called to relocate to the small church, the CAC will help prepare, send, and integrate new brothers and sisters into the local body. • Timelines will be developed according to the individual church’s stage of development, recognizing that ultimately God’s timing and blessing will determine progress in each of the churches. • Once the local church is self-sustaining, the CAC will transition out. Through much prayer and leading by the Holy Spirit, two small churches, Austin, TX and St. Louis, MO, have been selected to be “pilot” congregations to be assisted by the bolstering efforts of the Committee. These locations were chosen based on many factors, particularly because they have established local ministry which allows the focus to be on outreach and other needs. At present, communication has been given to these congregations and the process outlined above is being implemented. The lessons and experience gained through the bolstering process in these two locations will then be available to assist other small churches. — Please turn to pg. 64 October 2015 SILVER LINING 7 The Church and Singleness The Sanctity of Singleness “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” John 1:12-13 For a long time, the Church has diligently taught and held high the “sanctity of marriage” – the unity of a man and woman reflecting the Oneness of God. Such a precept is worthy of weight and attention. Marriage speaks to the union of Christ and His church and creates an environment where loving, believing parents can disciple and encourage their children toward faith in God. However, we see in John 1:12-13 the teaching of the new covenant of a spiritual family, the increase of the kingdom of God through spiritual regeneration and not just growth through childbearing. This is a critical shift to consider. It calls us to ponder the value we place on marriage and the lesser value sometimes placed on singleness. In the spiritual sense of God’s new covenant, singleness and marriage have equal standing in His sight. His focus is on His spiritual family (Mark 3:31-35). In this context then, it is good to consider for a moment not just the “sanctity of marriage” but also the “sanctity of singleness.” Similar to marriage, the sanctity of singleness can celebrate oneness, fidelity and covenant – not with man, but with God. Singleness therefore has great value in God’s eyes. Scripture abounds with examples of believers who were single. Paul, Mary, Martha, Lazarus, Anna, Jeremiah, Elijah and Daniel are a few individuals who were likely single. Jesus Himself chose to live a single life, building a family of brothers and sisters in the Lord versus building an earthly family. Living life singularly for God should be seen as a great honor, not something to be dreaded or avoided. Similar to marriage, Satan has attacked God’s design for singleness. Without careful Biblical 8 SILVER LINING October 2015 attention being paid to the sanctity of singleness, some inaccurate views can be propagated. Included in these inaccuracies could be: 1. Singleness is something to be feared. 2. Singles have less value than their married counterparts. 3. There is something wrong with the individual that doesn’t receive a marriage proposal. 4. Singleness is a phase of life and should be temporary. This article will endeavor to encourage us by asking eight self-reflecting questions regarding how we view the singles in our lives. 1. Does my attempt to encourage singles have the opposite effect? The comment “You’ll be next” when directed to a single at a wedding reception may have the opposite effect, leaving the individual feeling hurt or discouraged. The single may be: a. content in his/her current state of life. b. currently in the marriage proposal process and thus feel undo pressure. c. desiring marriage but feeling little control over their marital status. 2. Have I kept up with my single friends? In a new couple’s excitement of engagement and beginning a different phase of life, single friends can sometimes feel left behind. Oftentimes, single friends are excited for the new couple but can feel disappointed as their relationships change. While a degree of change is inevitable, it is important to maintain communication as much as possible with single friends, taking a continuing interest in their lives. 3. Do I overlook mature, gifted singles for church responsibilities? Church offices, Sunday school, committee membership, and other aspects of church all can benefit from capable single involvement. We should strive to see the value and potential in our singles. 4. Do I relegate certain responsibilities only to singles? Babysitting, running errands, visiting elderly, and service projects can frequently be delegated as responsibilities to be fulfilled by singles. Assuming singles have more time and fewer responsibilities can often be a false generalization. Without the support of a spouse, single individuals often lead very busy lives as they balance work, family obligations and household responsibilities on their own. 5. Do I overthink my invitations to singles when I host gatherings? Will they feel comfortable? Do I invite only an even number? Do I invite people for the sole reason they will inevitably bring blessing to the gathering, regardless of marital status? Invites to singles can be a great encouragement to all those involved. 6. Do I view all singles as the same? Singles hold many different titles and exist in many different life stages. Some are doctors, mothers, executives, college students, et al. Singles vary in maturity, responsibilities, and life callings just as widely as everyone else. They are no more a homogeneous group than married couples. We should remember singles in our church family are not one and the same, realizing the life of a 40 year old working single may vary dramatically from a 20 year old single college student or a 55 year old widow. We should be careful to not have the most defining label in one’s life be “single.” 7. Am I sensitive to the general support singles need? Singles go through periods of loss, questioning and needing affirmation. They also have a need for support, just like married individuals. And often singles can feel alone during these times without the benefit of a spouse or close confidant to truly share their heart with. One example is our church’s proposal by faith process. While this has been a blessing to many, the proposals usually discussed are those that have led to engagement. Confidentiality around this process is critical, but it can also create an environment where individuals who have given or received a “no” can feel shame or confusion if they try to reconcile these disappointments on their own. There is the hope this would draw an individual closer to the Lord, but unfortunately, this is not always the case. The individual may feel like they are the only one to have this experience and could develop bitterness toward God for not following through on the dream or expectation of having a spouse. Being able to openly share emotions with elders, parents, mentors or close friends while trusting that confidentiality will be maintained can be very helpful. Be willing to help create this environment of friendship and sharing as God gives opportunity. 8. Does the term “single” mean anything more to me than marital status? The word single occurs twice in the Bible (Matt. 6:22, Luke 11:34) and is derived from the Greek word haplous, which means “clear, sound and whole.” Both 1 Cor. 7:32-35 and Matt. 6:22 speak to having a spiritual vision that is fully fixed on God, not divided by other cares or concerns. It is good for all of us, married or single, to consider how focused our lives are on God and His purpose in our lives. If we do not take time to reflect, the sanctity and blessings of singleness can all but be lost. We need to hold on to a healthy view of singleness which is laid out for us in the New Testament covenant with our Lord Jesus Christ. We understand like none other what and how God’s family is grown, “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” (John 1:1213). Our spiritual relationship with Christ as His brothers and sisters will last into all eternity in a fashion our earthly relationships as husband, wife, and single do not (Luke 20:34-35). Where then is the place which the single should be able to truly turn for — Please turn to pg. 64 October 2015 SILVER LINING 9 Congregation Updates Apostolic Christian Home for the Handicapped www.achh.org “But his delight is in the law of the Lord.” Psalm 1:2 This scripture came to my mind as I recently was struck by a response from one of our residents to the reading of the Word. With the advocacy and assistance of a believing caregiver, he had entered the south family room on a Wednesday afternoon where a group of staff gather each month to pray together. Unable to participate verbally due to his challenges, he sat quietly as the prayer requests were reviewed. The miracle happened when the brother who was leading began to read the scripture passage he had chosen for the devotion time. As the brother began to read, our physically and intellectually challenged friend threw his head back with a radiant smile and made a joyful sound! His delight to hear the Bible read remained clearly obvious throughout the reading. Our hearts were originally stirred by this resident’s presence in the room, but now we were deeply touched by the Presence of the Holy Spirit in the room. Often the various prayer requests are for healing and protection, for provision of staff, and for help to all through 10 SILVER LINING October 2015 life changes. We are thankful for God’s hand of protection throughout a summer filled with enjoyable times. Many residents participated in outdoor activities including nearby camping, swimming, and zoo experiences. Day trips are a highlight. This year several groups of friends went to a variety of places in our community and nearby communities such as Springfield’s Lincoln Museum, shopping in Bloomington, a Peter Pan show, a riverboat cruise, mini-golf and athletic events. Two of our Linden residents volunteer at the Morton Food Bank every Wednesday. Some folks participated in Ignite Peoria - the Peoria Arts celebration at the Civic Center. Our booth was titled Arts for All, highlighting the fact that all people can create and participate in art regardless of ability level. As fall arrived, families and residents from all the CILA homes, Linden, Oakwood, and Timber Ridge gathered on September 12 for the annual Ice Cream Social under the big tent. Plans are being made for participating in various events for the Morton Pumpkin Festival. Timber Ridge residents and staff are preparing to ride in a float again in the parade this year. God has helped many through illnesses and hospitalizations and we are grateful. Other life changes such as loss of family members and changes in housemates and roommates can create stress and we are thankful to the Lord who provides comfort and strength through the transitions. Gateway Woods Apostolic Christian Children’s Home Ross Feller – Communications Coordinator I have been privileged to teach several Gateway Woods residents during my time as a Sunday School teacher at Leo. One particular student, Lana, was willing to be open with me about how she felt God had worked in her family in some exciting ways. Lana’s family was connected with Gateway Woods through several programs. Lana’s sister was a resident at Gateway Woods several years before Lana herself came. Also, before Lana was placed as a resident she, along with her sister and grandmother, was part of the Gateway Woods Home-Based program. Although Lana didn’t enjoy the structure of the residential program she always was thankful for the way that she felt Gateway Woods poured into her family. My favorite part about Lana’s story is how her family was initially connected with Gateway Woods. Before her sister was ever placed at Gateway, and before they became part of the home-based program, Lana’s family was introduced to the organization through a brochure that they received in the mail. However, the brochure was not addressed to them. In fact it was supposed to be delivered to an address on the other side of town! Upon reading this brochure Lana’s grandmother contacted Gateway Woods to seek help for her struggling family. Lana and her grandmother both express confidence that this was God’s way of directing their family toward the help that they needed. One thing I’ve learned in my time at Gateway Woods is that God is always active. He is always seeking to draw people to Himself, and sometimes He finds very creative ways to do it! News: • Gateway Woods Foster Care Program has a need for several new child car seats. We are in need of a newborn seat, convertible seat and a toddler seat. Due to safety concerns these seats must be new. If you are interested in donating a seat for this need please contact Sis. Britni Eisenmann at 260.627.2159. • There are three different career positions available currently at Gateway Woods, including: several openings for Alternate Houseparents, one opening for a Communications Coordinator, and one opening for a Development Coordinator. For more information please see the notices in this edition or visit the Career Opportunities page on our website at www. gatewaywoods.org/careers. We trust that God will provide qualified, mature brothers and sisters who will serve Him in a ministry that is ‘Turning Lives Around’. Alabama, Athens Apostolic Christian Preschool Kalla Knobloch September is here bringing letters A-E, the Farm/Harvest, Fall and Brown. We were surprised by some very special visitors, Danny and Sarah Bertsch. They brought their daughter Summer, who the children doted over. Ms. Sarah had the children rolling up their sleeves to make Apple Crescent Bites. We washed our hands, cut the apples into 8 slices, spread butter, sugar, and cinnamon on Pillsbury crescent roll. We rolled the apple inside the raw dough and placed on the baking sheet until dough is golden brown. YUM! The 2 year old class is keeping busy with finger painting Caterpillars, Cutting grass, and pasting Cotton balls for a beautiful Collage. The three, four, and five year old class has turned into a male dominate classroom. Ms. Kalla and the two young ladies feel a bit outnumbered by the seven young men. They have found a great joy in Ten Little Monsters Jumping on the Bed. We have been talking how God has made each of us so very special. We found a Gulf Fritillary Caterpillar - it is very colorful orange body and pointed black spikes. The children love finding creatures of all types. They have been finding and bringing in all sorts of things to make teachers ask them to take back outside. Please pray God will lead and direct the preschool board as our fall board meeting is coming up in October. They offer wisdom and guidance throughout the year and we cannot say thank you enough. Alabama, Athens Kristy Moore “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.” Psalms 121:1-2. This past month I have done quite a bit of traveling and communing with friends and family. In talking with them, I can’t help but notice a small October 2015 SILVER LINING 11 theme…life can be hard. What an amazing reminder that we have our Lord and Savior to help us when life throws us curve balls. I have come to appreciate these two verses when adversity comes my way. This past month in Athens has been nice in preparing for Homecoming weekend. As a reminder, Homecoming weekend is October 17 and 18. We look forward to having a wonderful weekend full of worship and fellowship. If you plan on attending, please contact me at 303-956-8839 or kmoore10@uab. edu. The contact for our guest house at church has also changed. If you would like to stay at our guest home while passing through, or would like to spend a long weekend with us, please feel free to contact Rebekah Klaus at 815674-5411. I hope you all have a blessed week! Arizona, Phoenix Marge Lindenbaum While only those prayers prayed through our Intercessor, Jesus Christ, can be effective, “In Jesus’ name” is not a magical incantation that guarantees God’s favorable response. When we find our prayers seem to fall back to earth without reaching God’s ears, there are a number of potential explanations. Most rest in the heart and life of the person offering the prayer, according to Scripture (Ps. 66:18 “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me”). Answer to prayer is not an unconditional promise of God, 12 SILVER LINING October 2015 even to His beloved children. Of course, if there is not a viable relationship between the person praying and the Lord, there can be no expectation of an answer. Those who are unfamiliar with God cannot expect His blessings. (Matt. 25:24-30 “Lord, I knew thee that thou art a hard man, reaping where thou has not sown, and gathering where thou has not strawed: and I was afraid.”) If we want to hear “well done”, we need to be sure our knowledge of God is based on Truth (Scripture) and not the words or opinions of man. Our prayer must be offered in faith (Heb. 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Also, Matt 21:22, Luke 17:6, James 1:6). Some prayers are hindered by unconfessed sin; living in continuing disobedience to the Lord. (Isa 59:2 “But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.” Prov. 28:9 “He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.” Also, Ezek. 14:3). Prayers for healing must be submitted with diligent attention to the Word, doing God’s will and keeping His statutes. (Ex. 15:26 “And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee.”). An unforgiving spirit is very clearly something that will cause God to turn a deaf ear to our prayers. (Mark 11:25-26 “And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.” Also, Matt. 18:23-35). If we pray with the wrong intent, for any purpose other than God’s glory, there is no reason to believe that prayer will be heard or answered. (Matt. 6:5-8, Rom. 10:23, James 4:2-3). If we neglect to help the poor, we are placing our prayers in jeopardy. (Prov. 21:13 “Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard” Also, Prov. 28:27). Discord within the family of God can affect the power of our prayers. (Matt. 5:22-24, Matt. 18:19, Acts 12:5-17, Acts 4:31-32) Sometimes our prayers go unanswered because we fail to thank and praise God in our offering. (Eph. 5:20, Phil. 1:3-4, Phil. 4:4-7, 1 Tim. 2:1) Another reason might be that we gave up too soon, failing to persevere in prayer. (Eph. 6:18, Isa. 40:31, Luke 18:1-5) The Lord takes very seriously His “types”, or examples, of Christ, as evidenced by the severe punishment assigned Moses for striking the rock instead of speaking to it. Likewise, the perfect representation of Jesus as the Groom and the Church as His bride is a serious matter in His eyes. Scripture is painfully clear that our prayers will be hindered if we cause the love of Jesus for His church to be misrepresented, in our positions as husbands and wives. (1 Pet. 3:3-7). Other reasons our prayers seem to fail are through no fault of our own. There are instances in Scripture where prayer was answered, but the answer was intercepted by demonic powers before it could be delivered. (Dan. 10:12-14, Zech. 3:1, Eph. 6:12,1 Thess. 2:18) Finally, it is sometimes necessary for us to completely and sacrificially devote ourselves to prayer that includes fasting and praising and thanking God. (Mark 9:29 “And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.”). These are only a small sampling of all the Scripture says about prayer. Based solely on our own worth and works, prayer would be an impossible thing. Except, we serve a merciful God who removes our sin far from us and remembers we are dust (Psalm 103:12-14). Because of Jesus and His sacrifice, our prayers are carried to the throne, even though we are unworthy. Yet, self-examination, forsaking our sin and forgiving our enemies are all helpful in bringing about God’s response. Prayer may be the greatest thing we can do for others here on earth, and God has made this way for us to tap into His power directly and continuously. Perhaps He encourages us to pray collectively so if one is hindered, another may be able to achieve results. If that is so, when an entire congregation prays, there is even more reason to believe it will be heard. If the effectual fervent prayer of one righteous man avails much, think of the power we wield when the entire church prays in unity and without hindrance. If we follow God’s reasonable commands and forgive those who sin against us, and love as Christ loved, our prayers offered in Jesus’ name will rise to God as a sweet-smelling savor, and He will respond in the perfect time and manner. What a sweet privilege! Our church here in Phoenix has many reasons to pray with praise and thanksgiving, and to petition for God’s mercy and healing. Things are starting to pick up again as the summer draws to a close. We enjoyed an interesting and inspiring presentation by Bro. John and Sis. Amy Gerst informing us on their work in Awi, Ethiopia. We said farewell to our dear Sis. Bertha Miller, who was a blessing to our congregation for many years, and look forward to that time when we will meet again, in our eternal home. Young Austin Lindenbaum got good news when his MRI showed a continued absence of any tumor or evidence of cancer. Sis. Cathy Emch underwent a successful outpatient surgery, and our Co- elder Bro. Jon Kokanovich spent some time in the hospital, and seems to have “bounced back” to good health rather quickly. Sunday School is again in session, and it won’t be long before we are welcoming back the “snowbird” members of our family. 1 John 3:22-23 “And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.” Arizona, Tucson Dean and Jackie Knobloch We were blessed to have Bro. Mitch Fehr and his family from Morris worshiping with us for two Sundays this month. We appreciate his willingness to preach the Word and teach us God’s ways. Our Sunday School students attended ACYF activities over the Labor day weekend in Altadena, CA. We thank the teachers for their work and efforts to teach and encourage our young adults. We are lifting up in prayer those who have physical or spiritual concerns. We are especially mindful of Rob Wilson (son-in-law of Bro. Don and Sis. Glo Bauer) and his wife Angie as he is further treated for his brain tumor. Bro. Chris and Sis. Sara Hattan along with big brother Isaias welcome Malachi Tate into their home. We are grateful for a safe arrival and healthy start to life. October 2015 SILVER LINING 13 California, Altadena/Los Angeles Kali Sauder As I reflect on the past month as a church family in Altadena, we are filled to overflowing! Just today we spent a blessed day worshiping together in church, followed by an evening of worshiping together at the beach. The joy is in the extra time for a little longer conversation than just church lunch can allow, the contagious delight of the little ones reveling in the sand and waves, another opportunity to break bread together and sense the goodness of our God all over again. Sometimes a different context can magnify the sweetness of fellowship as we make happy memories together! And it was only a few weeks ago, over Labor Day weekend, that Altadena hosted the annual Arizona/California ACYF weekend. High school students and their parent chaperones doubled our numbers at Sunday’s church services, as visiting ministers Bro. Fred Witzig (Washington, IL) and Bro. Dan Cargill (Prescott, AZ) spoke of Contending for the Faith: “...ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.” Jude 3 To our delight and joy, Bro. Joe Klotzle (Bro. Tom and Sis. Jody) was announced to marry Sis. Heather Steffen (Bro. Ted and Sis. Sandy, Alto, MI). With much anticipation and excitement we are thrilled to welcome Sis. Heather to CA and to our church family once the couple marries, Lord willing, in March. 14 SILVER LINING October 2015 “Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for he hath given you the former rain...and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain...” Joel 2:23. This scripture seems all the more real after the refreshing and much needed rain that washed Southern California recently. How much greater the rejuvenating promise given by the Lord of the Harvest to send His presence, His peace, His good news! California, San Diego Janelle Brewer As we look forward to the changing of the seasons, we stand in awe of God’s might and power and how all is ordered as He commands. “For the Lord is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods.” Psalm 96:1 We always appreciate the ministers who willingly serve us, both our home ministers and our visitors. We thank Bro. Justin Moser (Altadena, CA) and Elder Bro. Marvin Dotterer (Forrest, IL) for preaching God’s Word this past month. Our Junior High and High School Sunday School classes recently traveled to Altadena for ACYF weekend. We are thankful for the safe travels and a blessed time of fellowship together. We express our prayers and sympathy to Bro. Doug Banwart (Sis. Tricia) upon the death of his grandma, Sis. Sonia Banwart from Eureka, IL. May God comfort their family during this time of loss. “In sorrow and pain, Thy trust do retain, In Jesus the merciful Saviour. When burdened with care, When thou wouldst despair, Then call on thy loving Redeemer.” Zion’s Harp #46 Sis. Linde Zimmer was a hospital patient this month. We are prayerful for her as she regains her strength. Colorado, Denver Naomi Wiegand, Tess Leman Greetings of love from Colorado! The nights are getting cooler and the days are getting shorter. As summer turns to fall, we are reminded that seasons will keep on changing. Ecclesiastes 3:1 teaches us that to everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven. We experienced a time to weep and mourn as Sis. Ruth Pfeiffer (mother to Bro. Brian and Sis. Becky Pfeiffer) and Gene Carroll (grandpa to Richard and Debbie Reynolds) passed from this life recently. They will both be missed by many including children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and friends. It is also a time to rejoice knowing that they both finished their race on this earth and are walking on streets of gold in heaven. We experienced a time for love, laughing, and rejoicing as Sis. Autumn Hohulin (Bro. Doug and Sis. Sharolyn) was united in marriage to Bro. Jacob Rokey (Bro. Ben and Sis. Shelley). We enjoyed seeing how God brought them together. Even though we are going to miss Sis. Autumn, we wish them God’s blessings as they spend time planting together in Prescott. We are thankful that most of the Prescott church was able to come out for the wedding including Bros. Stan Schambach and Dan Cargill who helped preach. We appreciated all of the visitors that came to share our joy including ministering Bro. Tim Roecker (Peoria), Bro. Duane Metzger (West Bend) and Elder Bro. Jeff Grimm (Goodfield). “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.” Eccl. 3:1-8 Whatever season you might be in right now, be sure to seek out God’s will for your life. Solomon concludes Ecclesiastes with the following thoughts. “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” Eccl. 12:13-14 Connecticut, Rockville Lauren Gottier, Sheila Gerber “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18 Our congregation appreciated having two visiting ministers this month: Bro. John Steiner (Sis. Carol, Oakville-Mediapolis, IA) and Bro. Jeremiah Psinas (Morton, IL). Two couples were recently joined in matrimony. Bro. Seth Bahler (Bro. Ronnie and Sis. Bonnie) and Sis. Taylor Welti (Bro. Pete and Sis. Jill) were married on August 23. Chuck Crary (Bro. Ken and Sis. Deb) married Aiyana Maye (Kathe Frome and Stephen Maye, Monterey, MA) on September 12. Bro. Sam Virkler (Bro. John and Sis. Maureen) and Sis. Amanda Bahler (Bro. Phil and Sis. Michelle) recently became engaged. We wish them the blessings of the Lord on their marriage. We remember the family of Kathy (Kostuk) Guimond in our prayers as they mourn her passing. She was the daughter of Sis. Ruth (John (Dec.)) Kostuk and a sibling to Debbie (Matthew) Kostuk-Smith and Sis. Tonya (David) Campbell. She leaves a daughter Adria (Matthew) Mecca and her grandchildren, Jakob and Piper Mecca. District of Columbia, Washington Henrietta Meyer During the first part of September, Bro. Richard and Sis. Jan Gudeman from Silverton, OR were our caretakers. If you feel led to support one of our small churches, being caretakers here would be a wonderful way to do so. If you are interested and are free to spend 3-4 weeks in the DC area, please contact Sis. Doreen Steffen at dkgsteffen@gmail.com or 302-540-6574. Our ministers this month were Bro. Howard Plattner (Sis. Kristen, Alto, MI), Bro. Justin Koch (Sis. Marcia, Washington, IL), Bro. Clark Stoller (Sis. Cindy, Gridley, IL) and Bro. Tony Manz (Sis. Denise, Junction, OH). Other visitors this month were from Forrest, IL. The Sunday the Koch’s were here, they hosted an afternoon of fellowship and dinner at church. This month we also met young people that have moved to the area for employment. Not only are there employment opportunities with the government, government contractors and associations and others doing business with the government, but also in the IT, education, bio-technical, financial and construction fields. Spring and fall are great times to visit DC with cooler weather and smaller crowds. October 2015 SILVER LINING 15 There are many free attractions in Washington, DC, things for all the family. If you are planning to visit Washington, D.C. area, please contact Bro. Joe and Sis. Holly Bohart at jbohart@gmail. com or Sis. Henrietta Meyer at 703 904-8301 for assistance and to let us know how many to expect for Sunday services. Florida, Ft. Myers Victor Beer It is exciting to see the enthusiasm of those planning to attend the Retreat at Lakewood Lodge. All three Florida churches will be taking part in the outing. If you are considering a move to the Naples/Fort Myers area and would like to talk to someone about it, please call Bro. Marvin Steffen at 239-353-0508. He will help you gather information on anything from serving in a small church to job opportunities and housing in the area. The New Beginnings -Dustin Hodel “And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the LORD was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.” 1 Kings 19:11,12 Whenever I start the process of writing this article I usually 16 SILVER LINING October 2015 try and think of the big things that are going on at The New Beginnings lately. I want people to see the great things God is doing here in all their glory and magnificence! As I sat and brainstormed through, nothing huge came to mind. There’s been no great revelation in any of the mom’s lives; we haven’t had any proverbial doors open to new and wondrous things either. But as I sat and pondered the lack of ‘wow’ in our current lives God reminded me (again) of His still small voice. While we haven’t had any walls of Jericho tumble down or Red Sea partings, we’ve been enjoying the peace that comes from everyone working together and doing what is asked of them. The moms are all in school and doing well and we’ve seen gradual growth in their parenting. All four of the women with us are working together, helping each other when needed and being an encouragement to one another. While we are currently shorthanded in the mentor department, it doesn’t feel like it because there is a spirit of unity around the grounds and within the program and it makes for some smooth sailing. Surely there are issues that flare up, feelings get hurt and disagreements surface, but the problems are being handled peacefully, maturely and quickly. We thank each and every brother and sister who is praying for us. None of the above is achieved without the grace of almighty God. We also pray that you feel the same peace within your family and among the brothers and sisters in your congregation. Sometimes the still small whispers mean so much more than great signs and wonders (although those are pretty amazing too). Florida, Ft. Lauderdale Renee Mangold We were fortunate to have visiting ministers this past month. Sharing God’s word were Bro. Chris Huber (Sis. Sharon) Francesville, IN; Bro. Lynn Fiechter (Sis. Ronda) Bluffton, IN and Bro. Marvin Steffen, Ft. Myers, FL. We pray that our Lord will bless them for their efforts. Sis. Vi Gerber fell last week and is in the hospital. Our prayers for healing are with her. “And even when I am old and gray, O God, do not forsake me, Until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to all who are to come.” Psalms 71:18-19 Georgia, Peachtree City/ Atlanta Lexi Knapp, Elise Waldbeser We have a quiet, yet blessed, month here in Georgia! We continue to enjoy our new church and are excited to see what God has done, is doing, and continues to do. Change is always happening, whether it is the colors of the trees, the change in the weather, or areas of our lives. God is always at work! If anyone is coming to the area, we would love to have you worship with us! Our new address is: 202 Robinson Road, Peachtree City, GA 30269. However, please call ahead! (Tom Waldbeser 770.463.4788 or Richard Aberle 678.364.0507). For photos and additional information, visit our website at www.ptcacchurch.org. Haiti, Bonne Fin Hospital Lumiere Rick and Komari Aberle During the summer months, many of our missionary families took furlough and enjoyed time with family and friends. This time in our home churches encourages and renews us. Now, we have reassembled as a team in Haiti and are once again experiencing the blessings of the work at Hospital Lumiere. The wedding of Sis. Bekah Klopfenstein and Bro. Trent Witzig was a joyous event. Sis. Bekah is the daughter of Bro. Lee and Sis. Desma Klopfenstein, serving at the hospital. Bro. Trent has spent time in Haiti over the past several months serving the Apostolic Christian World Relief missions here. Those of us that were not able to attend the wedding in Latty, OH, gathered together and listened to the service via telephone. Ministering Bro. Jon Zeller (Morton, IL) and Elder Bro. Marvin Dotterer and his wife, Sis. Nancy, (Forrest, IL) were with us in August. We appreciate when ministers visit as we are able to have a church service and worship with our brethren serving here. Many times, our friends from other missions join us for worship as they appreciate hearing a service in English. After the church service, we enjoyed the fellowship of a Farewell Potluck for Bro. Eric and Sis. Jami Hartzler and their children: Leah, Grace, Conrad, Quincy and Gideon. The Hartzler’s have finished their service term here at the hospital and have returned to their home in Sardis, OH. Please pray for their family as they make this transition. We have hosted several teams in the past month. An orthopedic surgical team from South Carolina visited and provided valuable surgical services. A touching case they were able to help was a young girl whose ankle was injured in the 2010 earthquake and did not heal correctly. The team was able to surgically repair the ankle. Prayers for the girl’s healing are appreciated. Another team of medical professionals from several of our churches provided a cervical cancer screening clinic. We thank this team for providing the screening as well as health education to Haitian women. We encourage anyone with an interest in Hospital Lumiere to check the team schedule and join an upcoming team. The time and talents of those who come to further the work are vital to this mission. In addition, the fellowship with believers in Christ is very beneficial to the spiritual and emotional health of our missionary team. Thank you for supporting us in this way. We welcome Sis. Leah Bertschi who has joined our missionary team as a teacher. Roanoke, IL is her sending congregation. After a few weeks of acclimating to life in Haiti, she will be joining Sis. Desma Klopfenstein in teaching our missionary children. “And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him.” Matthew 8:7 Haiti, Les Cayes Mike & Susie Walder Greetings from Les Cayes! (Pronounced luh-kies, emphasis on “kies.”) We are thankful to begin contributing monthly news from Haiti. Hopefully getting regular updates from us will help you keep more connected to the families serving here. Many of you have visited here over the years while some of you will never have that opportunity. We feel we can speak for everyone here: we all truly appreciate your on-going interest, prayers and support. The middle of August we enjoyed a visit from our counseling Elder Bro. Marvin Dotterer, along with his wife, Sis. Nancy, lead minister Bro. Jon Zeller, and the ACWR Outreach Coordinator Bro. Kirk Plattner. We all had the opportunity to visit with them and share both concerns and encouragement. The Sunday they were here we all traveled up to Hospital Lumiere for an English service and the farewell cookout for Bro. Eric and Sis. Jami Hartzler and family. We will miss this special family and October 2015 SILVER LINING 17 the cheerful way they shared the love of God with us in Les Cayes. Once a month we alternate an English service between Les Cayes and the hospital. Many people ask how far apart Les Cayes is from Hospital Lumiere. Les Cayes is located on the south coast and the hospital is only 25-30 miles north in the mountains, but it takes about an hour to drive there. All the missionaries returned from summer furloughs before school started, but two families here are doing it a little differently this year. Bro. Jan and Sis. Val Gutwein and sons are staying in Francesville for a long break and we will miss them! Bro. Brent and Sis. Alisha Wagenbach actually stayed here all summer so they left the end of August for their furlough in the States. Just as Jesus found it good to “come apart for a little while,” we pray that their time off and a change of scenery will be helpful to their ministries and their family relationships. Living in a desperate country amid desperate people is very draining. Need we say more? The middle of September we hosted an English service here in Les Cayes. There were no visiting ministers present so we shared a time of singing and a Bible study. We have a number of other missionaries from the U.S., Canada and Germany living in close proximity to us so they are always invited to the service and the meal we share afterward. A medical team here 18 SILVER LINING October 2015 to work at the hospital blessed us by also attending. The time of spiritual encouragement coupled with extended fellowship is a real blessing for everyone. Also in mid-September a “Vision Team” was here to tour all the work being undertaken by ACWR in South Haiti. We enjoyed their interest and their questions as they toured. That was followed by an evening meal where we had time to share how God called our families to serve in Haiti. Thanks for your visit! “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 There are several missionary positions open in Les Cayes and also at Hospital Lumiere. Please see the advertisements posted in the back pages and prayerfully consider how God is speaking to you or your family. Some of the positions have been open for some time, so we pray that God will be speaking clearly to the right people who will then respond. There are several pages of week-long Haiti work teams listed as well. We warmly welcome you to come take part in sharing God’s love in Haiti however you can. Illinois, Belvidere Krista Anliker, Shayla Steffen “We give thanks to God and the Father our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,” Col. 1:3 We are praying that Elder Bro. Duane Rocke (Minneapolis, MN) will be blessed and given godly wisdom as he shepherds our little flock here in Belvidere. He was here recently. We thank him for preaching the Word in truth and for his continual efforts in driving the miles to attend church on so many occasions. We pray for Bro. Jeremy and Sis. Charity as they were united in marriage. May they always rely on God so that He may be glorified through their union. We thank Bro. Matthew Rassi (Sis. Bridget) for being willing to preach the truth from the pulpit alone on the weekend of Bro. Jeremy and Sis. Charity’s wedding. Because of Bro. Matthew’s willingness, all of our ministers were able to witness the union of hearts in Morton IL. We continue to pray for Sis. Lana (Bro. Bill), Bro. Dean (Sis. Carol), and Bro. Brian (Sis. Peg) as they all struggle with ailments of the flesh. As we look on we sometimes struggle with what to say, never knowing if we should keep asking how things are going or how to help. May we always remember that prayer changes things and to trust in the Lord and take heart. “For this cause we also, since the day we heart it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;” Colossians 1:9 Illinois, BloomingtonNormal Megan Kaeb, Sarah Maurer With September behind us, Sunday school and LINC are in full swing! Our church family had a blessed time at our annual Church Campout where we were able to share in fellowship, song, and food. “For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the tress of the field shall clap their hands.” Isaiah 55:12. This month has brought a new addition for Kale and Heather Farney as they welcome Kalan Ford into their growing family. Kalan’s grandparents are Bro. Ron and Sis. Ellen Farney of Bloomington and Gary and Patty Ford of Hudson. As one life begins, another ends. Wilmer Dean Stork of Fairbury passed away this month. Wilmer was a brother to Sis. Wilma (Bro. David) Kieser. Also, we say goodbye to Robert Lockwood, husband of Virginia, as he passed away this month as well. Our thoughts and prayers are with both families as September has brought much change into their lives. Our church was blessed to hear of the work the Lord is doing in Brazil through His faithful workers, Bro. Matt and Sis. Janelle Steidinger and their family. They have brought much joy with them from Brazil through stories of how God is working, much like the stories we share of how God works in our daily lives as well. Bloomington was happy to host an ACYF Day with Eureka, Gridley, and Princeville this month. It is an opportunity for our church’s younger generation to form new relationships, strengthen old relationships, and unify our church even more. Our thanks and appreciation extends to Bro. Tim (Sis. Kathy) Hohulin from Roanoke and Bro. Mike (Sis. Faye) Hohulin from Fort Lauderdale, FL for the Word they brought to our congregation this past month. “So faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17 Illinois, Bradford Roseann Stahl, Sandi Joos “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say Rejoice.” Philippians 3:4 We are instructed to rejoice in the Lord, and this past month we were given many reasons to rejoice. “And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.” St. Luke 15:6 We rejoice to have three new converts: Shannon Gudeman (Brianna), Mikaela Endress (Bro. Bill and Sis. Renee´), and Brooke Barto have begun their walk with the Lord. This month we were also privileged to hear the testimony and witness the baptism of Bro. Lucas Herrmann (Bro. Marvin and Sis. Lavonne, Princeville, IL). “Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.” Proverbs 5:18 August 23 was the wedding of Sis. Lana Stoller (Bro. Steve and Sis. Anna Marie) and Bro. Ernie Wiegand (Dale and Sis. Fredora, Eureka, IL). We pray for the blessing of the Lord on their marriage. “He maketh the barren women to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children. Praise ye the Lord.” Psalm 113:9 Sadie Elizabeth was born on August 20 to Bro. Ben and Sis. Katie Endress. She is welcomed by her siblings: Corbin, Marissa, Maria, Mallory, Elijah, Libby, Aubrey, and Ellie. Grandparents are Bro. Larry and Sis. Becky Endress and Bro. Richard and Sis. Marilyn Slutz. On August 24, Bro. Chad and Sis. Joanna Joos welcomed their first child, a daughter, Adrienne Rose. Grandparents are Bro. Ralph and Sis. Jenny Joos and Bro. Nathan and Sis. Sherrill Stoller. “…How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” Romans 10:15 We were blessed to have many visiting ministers with us the past month. Among them were Elder Bro. Jon Schmidgall (Sis. Julie, Mediapolis, IA), Bro. Bill Wettstein (Sis. Heidi, Eureka, IL), Bro. Ned Stoller (Sis. Heidi, Alto, MI), Bro. Jim Butikofer (Sis. Diana, Iowa City, IA), Bro. Kevin Fehr (Sis. Lonnie, West Bend, IA), Bro. Mark Wettstein (Sis. Karen, LaCrosse, IN), Bro. Craig Martin (Sis. Terri, Princeville, IL), Bro. Ryan Hoerr (Sis. Joy, Princeville, IL), Bro. Kevin Wulf (Sis. Annie, Morris, MN), Bro. Brandon Emch (Sis. Maria, Kansas City, MO), October 2015 SILVER LINING 19 and Bro. Gregg Rumbold (Sis. Heather, Peoria, IL). Along with the many visiting ministers we had throughout the month, we rejoiced to have many brethren gather together with us on September 13 for our invite-a-guest. “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him” Psalm 28:7 Bro. Gary Endress (Sis. Ev) was in the hospital at Mayo’s. We are thankful, not only to have him home, but also thankful his outpatient treatments for leukemia have been completed. Illinois, Champaign Dona Fehr Greetings from Champaign! We have much to be thankful for this month! Congratulations to Brittany Walder (Bro. Jim and Sis. Beth Walder) and Brad Forster (Eugene and Denise Forster) in their recent engagement. We wish them God’s blessings as they plan and look forward to their future together! We rejoice with Dawn Finch as she has heard the Lord’s call and turned her heart to Him! It is always a joy to see God’s grace and power continue to touch hearts and lives. August 23 marked the return of the U of I and Parkland students as the church hosted a New Student Welcome weekend for the students and their families. We were thankful to see the benches full! As we saw new students starting at both U of I and 20 SILVER LINING October 2015 Parkland, we also watched some of our own leave for college, some for the first time, some nearing the end of their college career. We wish them the best and hope they can feel the love of their home church while away for school. The same weekend that we welcomed college students, we also started our new Sunday school year and welcomed three new preschoolers to the roster! It is always refreshing to see the excitement and eagerness the little ones bring when they first start Sunday school! We appreciate this month’s visiting ministers: Elder Bro. Wayne Grimm (Sis. Rose, West Bend, IA), Elder Bro. John Wiegand (Sis. Jane, Silverton, OR), Bro. Aaron Frank (Sis. Sharla, Elgin, IA), and Bro. Matt Kaufmann (Sis. Rebekah, Bloomington, IL). We thank these brothers for their willingness to share God’s word with us! Illinois, Chicago Diana Eisenmann Greetings from Chicago! Thanks to the following ministers for visiting and sharing the word in September: Bro. John Lehman (Sis. Tamara, Wolcott, IN), Bro. Loren Schrenk (Sis. Betsy, St. Louis, IL), and Elder Bro. Ted Witzig, Sr. (Morton, IL). In August we welcomed Sis. Zoe Koehl from Forrest as she begins a semester of student teaching in Chicago Public Schools. In September we held our fall World Relief activity day and completed approximately 1,000 school kits and 500 medical kits for Mexico. We extend thanks to Elgin Church for hosting us for a potluck and singing in September. Many from Chicago attended. We appreciated the warm welcome and sweet fellowship. We rejoice with Marissa Wuethrich as she begins her repentance. Marissa is the daughter of ministering Bro. Chris and Sis. Carla Wuethrich. Please remember Peggy Ryan in your prayers as she was recently diagnosed with pneumonia. Our dear Sis. Lois (Witzig) Metzger passed away on September 5. We mourn the loss of a faithful sister and friend and grieve with her husband, Bro. Boyd, during this difficult time. May God provide grace and comfort to the family. Illinois, Cissna Park Janie Waldbeser, Sandy Rudin The angels in heaven rejoice over every soul who repents. Philip Eisenmann (Bro. Steve & Sis. Cheryl) and Jared Waldbeser (Bro. Mark & Sis. Janie) have expressed the desire for repentance. We pray they can draw near to God and build a firm foundation in Jesus Christ our Lord. We were recently blessed when the Latty Choir came to spend a weekend with us. We thank Bro. Chris Laukhuf who shared the Word of God on Sunday. Our sympathy is extended to the family of Bro. Lynn Knapp who went to his eternal rest this month. May God comfort his two daughters and sons-in-law, Sis. Melinda & Bro. Larry Gramm of Bremen, IN; and Darlene & Bill Medler of Hoopeston, IL; three granddaughters, Nikki, Cassie and Jasmine Gramm; and one brother, Roy Knapp of Cullom, IL. Also surviving Bro. Lynn are two sistersin-law, Sis. Lucille and Sis. Marilyn Knapp, and brother-in-law, Wes (Judy) Knapp of our congregation. Bro. Rod & Sis. Beth Steffen are thankful for two new grandchildren born one day apart! June Ivory was born on September 7 to Quinn & Sadie and big sister Skye Steffen from Hannibal, MO. On September 8, Knox August was born to Brett & Olivia Steffen and siblings, Obie, Zion, and Hutch from Chiang Mia, Thailand. Ryan Walder (Bro. Doug & Sis. Julie) and Tamar Hickman were united in marriage on August 29. We pray God will bless their union. A special evening was enjoyed by our Sunday School students as they hosted the annual Senior Citizen meal. It warmed my heart to see them all reminiscing and spending time with those they love! What a blessing! Sis. Lucille Knapp has been experiencing some medical issues and is recuperating in Heartland Nursing Home in Paxton for a time and would appreciate prayers. Sis. Judy Edelman’s husband, Urban, was in a bad tractor accident and is in Chicago for some extensive medical attention. Thanks for your prayers on his behalf and for his family as they go through this trial in their lives. We can’t always see where the road leads, but God promises there’s something better up ahead we just have to trust Him. -Author unknown Illinois, Congerville Erica Steffen “And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten...” Joel 2:25 The harvest is upon us here in Central Illinois, and living between the grain bins and a seed corn company has meant a lot of dust around our house! Although autumn is my favorite time of the year in this area, I could do without all the dust and the plague of grasshoppers that has descended upon us. But what a joy it is to witness another harvest that has come to our church, as we have seen six young souls come in repentance in the last month! These dear ones have chosen to shake off the dust of the earth and have decided to follow Jesus! Our prayers are with Steffani Wiegand (Bro. Joe and Sis. Myra), Russell and Rose Knobloch (Jerry and Sis. Linda), Nathan Steffen (Bro. Jay and Sis. Melinda), & Rebekah and Hannah Schrock (Bro. Kevin and Sis. Rachel) as they begin their walk with the Lord. This month we had the opportunity to share with the ministers who have helped serve our church over the last year at a potluck and singing. We thank these ministers for their service and support to us, and for fellowshipping with us once again! We are thankful that Bro. John Rowell (Sis. Nelda, Burlington) and Bro. Ron Isch (Sis. Jane, Lamont-Gridley) were willing to share the Word with our church this month. May they be blessed for their efforts. Bro. Andy and Sis. Maxine Virkler’s daughter, Cindy Virkler, is moving to a new home and would like to share her new address: Cindy Virkler 612 E. Polk St. Morton, IL 61550 Feel free to send her a note to welcome her to her new home! Illinois, Elgin Amy Gasser We thank Elder Bro. Brad Eisenmann and Bro. Rick Kaisner (Chicago, IL) for ministering to us recently. The Sunday School Pancake Breakfast was held on Saturday, September 12, at the Fellowship Center. It was hosted by our Bible Class students to raise money for their ACYF bus trips and other Sunday School activities. We thank them for their efforts. Sis. Lois Metzger (Bro. Boyd, Chicago, IL) passed away on September 5, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Her funeral was held on September 11 at the Chicago church, followed by a graveside service at the Elgin church cemetery. We extend our sympathy to Bro. Boyd and his family and to Ella (John) Martin, who is a sisterin-law from our Elgin church. October 2015 SILVER LINING 21 Bro. Walt Steffen passed away on September 7. His funeral was on September 12 at the Milford, IN church. We extend sympathy to his family, including his sisters, Sis. Louise and Sis. Lenora Steffen from Elgin, IL. Bro. Walt is remembered for his gentle manner. Bro. Gary (Sis. Edie) Anliker was readmitted to the hospital recently. Sis. Judy (Bro. Dick) Klopfenstein had emergency surgery recently and is presently recovering at home. Sis. Wava (Bro. John) Steffen had her second knee replacement surgery at the time of this writing. Illinois, Eureka Debra Blunier, Linda Rocke As we see the harvest underway in the golden grain fields around us, it brings special meaning to the words of the hymn: “Hasten gladly to the labor, Consecrate to God your heart; Say this day unto your Saviour, ‘Lord, I’ ll gladly do my part.’” Hymns of Zion, #46 We have had quite a number of funerals this year as we lay to rest many who have faithfully and gladly done their part. Our sympathy to the family of Sis. Lorine (Bro. George, dec.) Stoller. She was the sister of Bro. Lloyd (Sis. Betty, dec.) Schumacher and stepmother of Donald (Iantha) Stoller of Gridley, IL, Sis. Nancy (Bro. Merle) Sauder of Tremont, and Sis. Elaine (Bro. Jack) Schmidgall of Morton. Another loss to our congregation came with the 22 SILVER LINING October 2015 passing of Sis. Sonia Banwart, wife of Bro. Joel. Again, we send our deepest sympathy to all the family. She was mother to Bro. Jeff (Sis. Lisa) Banwart, Bill Banwart of Vail, CO, Ann Milborn of Carmel, IN, Joan (Francis) Franke of Evergreen, CO, and Ellen (Mike) Anders of Tolono, IL. Sonia was sister to Sis. Millie (Bro. Jack) Prather of Eureka and many others. Her cheerful patience in affliction was an inspiration. Special thanks to Bro. Jim (Sis. Diana) Butikofer of Iowa City, IA, who served us in the pulpit, as well as to our many other visitors this past month. Fellowship adds to the spiritual benefit of Sundays! Thanks always as well to our Eureka ministers for their faithful service to us. Austin Michael was born September 21 to Bro. Jared and Sis. Sara Fehr. Delighted to welcome their baby brother home are Audrey, Serena, and Jayla. Grandparents are Bro. Ken and Sis. Sandy Fehr, and Bro. Tom and Sis. Edie Stoller. The news that someone is repenting is the most joyful of all. We rejoice that Tara Edelman, daughter of Bro. Keith and Sis. Nadine Edelman, has found grace to take that step. We wish her God’s direction and blessings in her new walk of faith. Note of Thanks: To be remembered by many dear souls for my one hundredth birthday has been overwhelming. I wish to express my sincere thanks to all, and God’s richest blessings for the love and kindness shown. Sis. Wilma Huber Illinois, Fairbury Angela Herr, Janelle Stoller “Haste and seek your soul’s salvation; heed the word of God today! Haste to flee His condemnation; seek the straight and narrow way. Evil are the worldly pleasures, leading to eternal fire; seek the everlasting treasure, ere the day of grace expire.” Repent Ye!, Zion’s Harp # 52, verse 1 Our hearts are rejoicing with the angels in Heaven over many souls who have recently made a beginning in repentance. Ross Steidinger (Bro. Martin and Sis. Trish), Ryan, Jeremy, and Tami Steffen (Corey and Sis. Beth), Gideon Moser (Bro. Kevin and Sis. Kara), Arthur Moser (Sis. Julia and late Bro. Doug), Seth Miller (Bro. Roger and Sis. Crystal), Darla Meiss (Bro. Kevin and Sis. Kati), Paul Leman (Bro. Chad and Sis. Kim), Milan Teubel (Bro. Nathan and Sis. Jennifer), and Sonny Montgomery have answered God’s call. Our prayers are with each one as they turn their backs on the world and walk in the ways of our Lord and Savior. “There is beauty all around, when there’s love at home; There is joy in every sound, when there’s love at home. Peace and plenty here abide, smiling sweet on every side, time doth softly, sweetly glide, when there’s love at home.” The Christian Home, Hymns of Zion #64, verse 1 The engagement of Bro. Thane Zehr (Bro. Quinn and Sis. Joan) and Sis. Myrna Moser (Bro. Jeff and Sis. Sara) was announced on August 30. May God bless and guide them as they prepare for their wedding and life together. Carrie Rinkenberger (Doug and Beth) and Jensen Lanz (Bro. Troy and Sis. Kathleen, Forrest, IL) exchanged wedding vows on September 5. We wish them God’s blessings in their marriage. Bro. Karl and Sis. Carrie Steidinger have adopted a 3-yearold boy, Ian, from South Korea. Addison and Maddox lovingly welcome Ian as their new brother. His grandparents are Bro. Chris and Sis. Kay Steffen and Bro. Randy and Sis. Dawn Steidinger. Our prayers are with Ian and this dear family as he adjusts to a new life in America. While we rejoice with those who rejoice, we also weep with those who weep. We extend our sympathy to Bro. John Stork (Sis. Eunice) in the loss of his brother, Wilmer Stork, who passed away on August 23. Our prayers have been with Sis. Martha Fehr who has undergone surgery and spent extra time in the hospital. May God’s healing hand be upon her according to His will. The weekend of August 29-30 we hosted a commemoration in recognition of 50 years since our church building was erected and dedicated. We enjoyed a singing and historical presentation on Saturday evening along with numerous visitors who once attended church in Fairbury. We were reminded of our forefathers who have gone on before us and have left us a blessed heritage. May we each do our part to uphold our precious denomination for those who follow after us that they may know the way of the cross and find shelter from a sinful world. On September 20 our Bible class hosted Cissna Park, Morton, and Washington for ACYF Day. We were thankful to have Bro. Randy Beer (Milford, IN) and Bro. John Steiner (Oakville-Mediapolis, IA) with us for the day. Other visiting ministers serving our congregation this month were Bro. Art Mueller (Belvidere, IL), Bro. Jerry Wagenbach (OakvilleMediapolis, IA), and Bro. Curt Kaufman (Tucson, AZ). We thank each of these brothers for sharing God’s Word and pray that He will richly bless them. We have been listening to the conference recordings and are thankful for the kind exhortation and encouragement from our dear elder brothers. May we continue to lift them up in prayer along with our ministering brothers who faithfully serve us each week. Illinois, Forrest Carissa Knapp, Shannon Brown “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2 We are very thankful for the souls that have answered the Lord’s call to repentance. Jesse Leman (Bro. Ernie and Sis. Carol), Clay Zimmerman (Bro. Kent and Sis. Paulette), Nathan Dotterer (Bro. Jason and Sis. Lynn), Chase Leman (Bro. Arlen and Sis. Denise), and Rollie Mueller (Bro. Ron and Sis. Vicki) have all turned their backs on Satan and the world. We pray as a church we can support and encourage them onward. Congratulations to Jensen Lanz (Bro. Troy and Sis. Kathleen) and Carrie Rinkenberger (Doug and Beth), who were married on September 5. On September 13, we witnessed the marriage of Sis. Amanda Zimmerman (Bro. Kent and Sis. Paulette) and Bro. Trevor Edelman (Bro. Karl and Sis. Bethany). We thank Elder Bro. Paul Messner (Winthrop, MN), Bro. Cal Schneider (Lacrosse, IN), Bro. Nicholas Waibel (Francesville, IN), and Bro. Paul Kilgus (Fairbury, IL) for being with us that day and sharing God’s Word. Also sharing God’s Word this month were Bros. James Fehr (Tremont, IL), Earl Beery (Rittman, OH), Leland Plattner (Zapata, TX), Kenneth Eisenmann (Cissna Park, IL), David Eisenmann (Champaign, IL), and Elder Bro. Brad Eisenmann (Chicago, IL). What a blessing to be able to travel and fellowship together. We have been listening to the topics from the summer Conference and want to again thank our elder brothers for their love and efforts for our precious brotherhood. Laine Elizabeth is the new daughter of Kyle and Sarah Steidinger. Her big sister, Harper, October 2015 SILVER LINING 23 and grandparents, Bro. Duane and Sis. Mary Ifft, are excited to welcome her into their family. Marjorie Stephens and Sis. Sally Schaffer (Bro. John) both had hip replacement surgery. May God be with them as they recover. Our prayers are also with Bro. Glen Zimmerman (Sis. Mildred) who spent some time in the hospital. Illinois, Goodfield Kayla Wiegand, Melissa Rokey We celebrated two weddings in our congregation this month. Congratulations are offered to Luke Lowery (Ken and Sis. Jaci) and Rachel Schmidgall (Mark and Kimberly). We also congratulate Bro. Jake Rokey (Bro. Ben and Sis. Shelley) and Sis. Autumn Hohulin (Bro. Doug and Sis. Sharolyn, Denver, CO). We grieve the loss of a loved one as our Paul Puzich passed away on September 4. Our sympathy extends to Sis. Melita Hodel (Bro. Curt) upon the passing of her father, Melvin Martin, on September 4.We also are supportive of Sis. Audrey Rocke (Bro. Steve) upon the death of her grandmother, Audrey Potts, on September 10. Our Bro. Mel Blunier (Sis. Marilyn) was in a serious tractor accident. We are thankful to God for His mercy and ask for prayers as Bro. Mel recuperates. We’ve been praying for Bro. Eric Wiegand (Sis. Carrie, Zambia, Africa) who was attacked by wild bees. We are thankful for his recovery. Both Bro. Steve and his wife, Sis. Mary Ellen 24 SILVER LINING October 2015 Wiegand, have been hospitalized with serious health concerns, and we are prayerful for their family. Bro. Tony Monfre (Sis. Deonne) had some complicated surgery on his arm and we pray for him as he heals. Bro. Bill and Sis. Mary Masters from Fort Myers, FL recently gave a presentation about the New Beginnings home for single mothers in Fort Myers. This is a very encouraging and effective ministry that is changing and helping bring moms and their children to Christ and developing life skills. We rejoice with Jessica Wiegand, Wyatt Moser, Job Knapp, and Roman Bauman as they have turned their lives over to the Lord in repentance. May they feel God’s nearness and grace! Surely there is joy in heaven. Jessica is Bro. Mike and Sis. Jenise Wiegand’s daughter. Wyatt is Bro. Sam and Sis. Ruth Moser’s son. Roman is Bro. Rick and Sis. Stacie Bauman’s son. Job is Bro. Josh and Sis. Carolyn Knapp’s son. We express our appreciation to the visiting ministers who have served our congregation recently, including Bro. Darren Plattner (Sis. Sue, Champaign, IL), Elder Bro. Doug Schock (Sis. Clara, Bloomfield, IA), Elder Bro. Earl Ringger (Sis. Dixie, Gridley, IL), Brian Huber (Sis. Jacki, Francesville, IN), and Gregg Rumbold (Sis. Heather, Peoria, IL). We have begun work on our fellowship hall renovation and we wish to thank the many hands who make the work light. Illinois, Gridley Perry Klopfenstein We were blessed recently with a sermon on the third chapter of Colossians where emphasis was made on “putting off” and “putting on” in terms of changing from the old life (of sin) to the new life (of holiness and obedience). Surely, it is an encouragement to note the Bible’s teaching of repenting and being converted. “For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” (verse 3). It follows that in our quest to draw nigh to God, we are to heed the Apostle’s exhortation to “seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God”. Our congregation welcomes Tim and Kim Metzger of Lester, IA to our assembly. He has taken employment here and they have moved to Gridley. The church remodeling process continues. We are thankful to be worshipping in our main assembly room. We are enjoying the new dining room as well as benefiting by a larger fellowship area. Marilyn Schieler of the Meadows Home is struggling with heart issues. We surely pray that God can be near to her, and heal her according to His will. Sis. Judy Dohman has surgery and is recovering nicely. Sis. Ruth Rinkenberger had hip replacement surgery. Sis. Linda Kinder also had surgery. Chandler Jones had a heart procedure recently that was successful. Our sympathy is extended to Sis. Linda Wettstein over the loss of her sister, Sis. Sonia Banwart, of Eureka. We offer sympathies as well to Don and Iantha Stoller over the loss of her brother. Too, we are sympathetic to Bro. Val and Sis. Bill Funk in the passing of her sister, Kathy Gramm. By mid-September the corn and soybean harvest was in progress and many of our brethren were occupied in “bringing in the harvest.” Illinois, Morton Annette Tanner, Julie Bahr Our Morton Congregation was sufficiently blessed this month with visiting ministers. Elder Bro. Steve Sauder (Sis. Mary) and Bro. Tom Bolliger (Sis. Jane) from Tremont, Bro. Ted Schock (Sis. Heidi), Bro. Art Mueller (Sis. Marlene), and Bro. Dean Steffen (Sis. Carol) all from Belvidere, and Bro. Dan Moser (Sis. Anne, Elgin). Bro. Justin Koch (Sis. Marcia, Washington) gave us our Family Worship Topic “Gems of Proverbs”. Our “Words” which most definitely can offer life or death to the souls of men. Elder Bro. Ron Messner (Sis. Pam) Washington, also came to deliver a presentation on the lives of those from our Apostolic Christian Home for the Handicapped. The extended arms of Christ were presented plain and evident! We have been extremely blessed with a host of new little miracle births! On August 25, Bro. Clayton and Sis. Trish Monfre, along with siblings Stella and Ace, welcomed a new baby girl Letty Joy. On August 31, Bro. Daniel and Megan Martin were doubly blessed with twin daughters, Nora Jo and Mary Mae. Siblings, Abram and Emery welcome them home. Thankful grandparents are Bro. Doug and Sis. Karen Martin and Mike and Donna Reese. Bro. Daniel and Sis. Diane Wuthrich were excited for a new baby daughter, Ila Mae, on September 10. Ila’s siblings are Lana, Leia and Asher. Thankful grandparents are Bro. Mark and Sis. Cheryl Wuthrich and Bro. Lawrence and Sis. Annette Tanner. Our prayers and comfort are shared with Sis. Elaine Schmidgall (Bro. Jack) in the passing of her stepmother Sis. Lorine Stoller, Eureka. Our love and sympathy is also shared with Bro. Harold Witzig who experienced the loss of his sister, Sis. Lois Metzger (Bro. Boyd) from Chicago. The beautiful wedding day of Sis. Charity Steffen and Bro. Jeremy Oswald took place on August 30. Sis. Charity’s parents are Bro. Dean and Sis. Carol Steffen, Belvidere. Bro. Jeremy’s parents are Bro. Mike and Sis. Michelle Oswald, (Tremont). Illinois, Peoria Pam Fritzenmeier We are thrilled to report three engagement announcements! August 23, Sis. Larissa Feucht was announced to Bro. Tristan Herrmann, Princeville. Parents are Bro. Tim and Sis. Robyn Feucht and Bro. Roger and Sis. Darlene Herrmann, Princeville. Bro. Isaac Funk was announced to Sis. Elise Waldbeser, Atlanta, on August 23 also. Parents are Elder Bro. Tim and Sis. Debi Funk and Elder Bro. Tom and Sis. Susan Waldbeser, Atlanta. Then on September 6, Sis. Danae Hoerr was announced to Bro. Drew Martin, Princeville. Parents are Bro. Don and Sis. Jackie Hoerr, and Bro. Alan and Sis. Janice Martin, Princeville. It is such a blessing to report three new converts too. They are Ashley Triplett, (Bro. Matt and Sis. Kristi), Kenedi Streitmatter, (Bro. Dennis and Sis. Stephanie) and Lanae Christ, (Bro. Fred and Sis. Tina, Princeville). Our Peoria Young Group traveled to Kansas City on the July 26 weekend. They want to extend their thanks to the whole Kansas City church for the potluck supper that was provided at the Park, and also for such a blessed weekend of love and fellowship. We again have several families who experienced the death of a loved one this past month. August 16, Sis. Kathy Wickert’s father, Edward James (Jim) Wickert, passed away. Also on August 16, Sis. Eleanor Steffen, Morton, passed away. She is Bro. Kent (Sis. Joanne) Steffen’s mother and Sis. Vonnie (Bro. Verle) Kieser’s sister. On September 1, Bro. Walter Feucht passed away. He is Sis. Debi (Elder Bro. Tim) Funk’s and Bro. Tim (Sis. Robyn) Feucht’s father. Our prayers and sympathy are extended to these families. October 2015 SILVER LINING 25 We have many in need of prayers for health issues. These include Sharon (Feucht) Hopwood, Andrea (Aaron) Staley, Mary See, Sis. Linda Miller, Rosalie (Bruce) Johnson, Mark Funk, Bro. Harry (Sis. Loretta) Eisenmann, Sis. Nanette David, Aleah Hartter, baby daughter of Bro. Ben and Sis. Heidi, Sis. Beth (Bro. Greg) Herman, Bro. Dave and Sis. Kathy Obergfel, Sis. Dee Metzger, and Wilma Schubert. Please also pray for our families serving at CVE in Magdalena, MX: Bro. Jonathan and Sis. Bere Aupperle, Bro. Jason Grassi, and Bro. Zach and Sis. Daniela Knobloch. Illinois, Princeville their son, Joshua, has begun his repentance. Also Bro. Troy and Sis. June Wagenbach have a son Nolan repenting. We are very thankful they have begun on the straight and narrow way that leads to heaven. A new grandson joined the family of Bro. Alan and Sis. Janice Martin. Ezra Sha was born August 18 to Bro. Shane and Sis. Megan of Bloomington, IL. Sis. Arlene Martin, Sis. Edna Martin and Sis. Martha Jane Siebenthal spent time in the hospital this month. Sis. Edna Martin is currently receiving therapy at Peoria Skylines. We pray God will continue to be near each of them in their physical battles. Gloria White, Renee Herrmann Illinois, Roanoke We were blessed by several visiting ministers this month. Bro. Doyle Frauhiger (Bluffton North, IN), Bro. John Grimm (Columbus, OH), Bro. Jeff Fischer (Fort Scott, KS), Bro. Fred Witzig (Washington, IL) and Bro. Fred Funk (Morton, IL). May God be their rich rewarder. The engagement of Bro. Tristan Herrmann (Bro. Roger and Sis. Darlene) to Sis. Larissa Feucht (Bro. Tim and Sis. Robyn) of Peoria was made known to us. Also Bro. Drew Martin (Bro. Alan and Sis. Janice) to Sis. Danae Hoerr (Bro. Don and Sis. Jackie) of Peoria. We wish them God’s nearness as they plan/or this most important step in their lives. We rejoice with the family of Bro. Doug and Sis. Ann Stahl as Barb Schwind, Judy Sauder 26 SILVER LINING October 2015 August 21 and 22 were Nursing Home Benefit Days. It was wonderful to see the many volunteers from church and the community working together and generously donating to help the elderly in our Home. We thank the visiting ministers for sharing God’s Word: Elder Bro. Kent Heimer (Taylor) on August 23, Bro. Mike Hohulin (Ft. Lauderdale) and Bro. Brad Strahm (Bern) on September 6, and Bro. Duane Reutter (Rockville) on September 13. We wish God’s blessings on Annie Hodel (Sis. Joyce) and Tory Wentworth (Dennis and Kathy) of Leroy, who were married August 29. We rejoice with Justin Fehr (Bro. Jon and Sis. Jill) and Kerri Zimmerman of Peoria (Jill Levine and Gary Zimmerman), who are engaged to be married. We rejoice with those who have surrendered their hearts to Jesus: Jason Schwind (Bro. Dennis and Sis. Rita), Carla Martino, and Kendall Knapp (Bro. Norm and Sis. Kathy). It was a blessing to hear the testimonies and witness the baptisms of Adam and Jackie Knepp on September 5 and 6. We feel Bro. Rich Knepp must be rejoicing in heaven over this wonderful event! Bill and Jan Rassi welcomed a sweet little granddaughter, Scarlett Elizabeth, born September 9 to Ryan and Kayla Hedrick of Marine, IL. Our hearts go out to those who have lost loved ones. Bro. Virgil Hartter (Sabetha) passed away on July 29. He was the father of Bro. Bob (Sis. Chris) Hartter. Bro. Walter Feucht (Peoria) went to be with the Lord on September 1. He was the father of Bro. Randy (Sis. Carol) Feucht. Derek Potkovic of Wisconsin passed away on September 3. Derek was the grandson of Sis. Jane Schumacher. We welcome Sis. Emma Hoerr (Taylor) to our church. On September 20, Roanoke hosted ACYF day with visiting Bible classes from Taylor, Peoria, Goodfield and Tremont. It was a joy to see so many young people fill our church. We continue to pray for those battling health problems: Bro. Dennis Schwind (Sis. Rita), Sawyer Kaufman, Bro. Jim (Sis. Annie) Leman, and Sis. Marge Fischer. We bid farewell to Sis. Leah Bertschi, who will be teaching in Haiti, and Sis. Marisa Leman, who is doing social work at Gateway Woods. We welcome home Sis. Brooke Marcille, who spent the summer in Uganda doing Christian work with youth, Bro. Tim Martin, who helped document a ceremony in Tanzania where 6 new Bible translations were released in local groups’ languages, and Bro. Rich Bertschi and Bro. Bill Leman, who did mission work in Haiti. We also appreciate brethren who worked on the World Relief roofing project in El Paso, IL. How wonderful it is to have opportunities and willing brethren to serve the Lord! Whether He calls us to foreign soil or to our own home, workplace or neighborhood we all have opportunities to share the love of Jesus with others. It’s harvest time on the prairie, and we see farmers working diligently in the fields. May we all be diligent workers in the Lord’s harvest! Matthew 9:38 “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest.” Illinois, Tremont Teresa Rowell, Janice Sauder “And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.” Genesis 2:18 We are praying God’s blessings upon Bro. Eric Rocke and Sis. Leann (Stoller) Sauder, as their engagement was announced. As they prepare for marriage, may each find his/her special, important place in this new family—which includes children: Lexi, Wesley, Whitley and Lainey. We also congratulate Bro. Jeremy and Sis. Charity Oswald, as they exchanged wedding vows on August 30 in Morton, IL. Bro. Dean and Sis. Carol Steffen (Belvidere, IL) and Bro. Mike and Sis. Michelle Oswald are the thankful parents. We extend sympathy to the family of Sis. Alice (the late Charles) Patton. She is survived by sons: Randy (Diana) Patton, Tremont; David (Cindy) Patton, Bloomington; Doug (Lori) Patton, Germantown Hills; and daughter: Vicki (Steve) Ely, Sequim, WA; grandchildren and two brothers. We also were saddened at the death of Bro. Levi and Sis. Dani Hancock’s grandpa, Richard (Greta) Chambliss, of Tremont. May God draw near to comfort these dear ones. Bro. Rich and Sis. Carol Sauder welcome another granddaughter, Joanna Joy. Brad and Kim Grant (Hicksville, OH) are her happy parents. Siblings: Leah, Micah, Jonathan, Titus, Levi, Susanna, Rebekah, Benjamin, and Lydia also welcome her home. We will be praying for Bro. Matthew Koch (Bro. Roger and Sis. Sally) as he has left for Kobe, Japan. He will be living with a Japanese couple as he studies at the Konan International Exchange Centre (Konan University) for the next nine (possibly twelve) months. May Bro. Matt’s faith be strengthened during this time of preparation for his earthly career. Illinois, Washington Kendra Funk, Patricia Knapp “And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” John 17:19 We are blessed! Our church families have been blessed with weddings, babies and baptisms. God is good! God is great! We rejoice with Mark Messner and Laura Olson as they were united in marriage on Aug 15. Bro. Ron and Sis. Pam Messner welcome their new daughter. On the same day, Bro. Mark and Sis. Tammy Herrmann added a new son to their family their daughter Haley and Eric Kolowski were married. On September 5, Bro. Myron and Sis. Lori Rumbold’s daughter Katlyn and Bryan Sandeen became one in the Lord. As a church family we pray God’s blessings and guidance on each of these three couples. A precious baby boy, Noah Ray, was born on September 3 to Bro. Layne and Sis. Heather Steffen. Welcomed home by big brother Gabe and grandparents Bro. Scott and Sis. Marvella Steffen and Bro. Leroy and Sis. Carolyn Wulf from Oakville/ Mediapolis. Another precious baby boy, born on the same day, Leonidas “Leo” Otho, joined Bro. October 2015 SILVER LINING 27 Luke and Sis. Natalie Baker’s family. Waiting at home for him are sisters, Mercedes and Jade, along with grandparents Joe and Sis. Karen Baker and Bro. Bill and Sis. Jeanne Leman from Roanoke. As our church family grows, we pray guidance on these “lil” ones as they are raised in a godly home. We rejoice and praise God as witnessed baptisms of four souls on September 13. Bro. Kyle Streitmatter (Bro. Paul and Sis. Jean), Sis. Holly Fritz (Bro. Phil and Sis. Jessica), Sis. Esther Hofstetter (Bro. Keven and Sis. Ann) and Sis. Lydia Pfaffmann (Bro. Robert and Sis. Lily). As a church family we pray for His guidance for our new brother and three sisters in faith. We were blessed to host the Annual Men’s Sing on August 30. Thanks to all who came to worship with us, and bless you for sharing your talents. We thank each of the willing servants visiting us this month, Bro. Randy Kellenberger (Sis. Karen, Kansas City, MO), Bro. Aaron Luthi (Sis. Maria, Lamont-Gridley KS), Bro. Dewayne Dill (Sis. LaRae, Minneapolis, MN), Bro. Matt Steffen (Sis. Deanna, Princeville IL), Bro. Trent Meiss (Sis. Lucy, Eureka, IL), Bro. Bill Wettstein (Sis. Heidi, Eureka, IL), and Bro. Jeff Wiegand (Sis. Janell, Goodfield, IL). Indiana, Bluffton Suzie Fiechter, Kim Meyer “There are no shortcuts to holiness.” Amy Carmichael Holiness, according to the 28 SILVER LINING October 2015 Vine’s Expository, is translated from the Greek words hagiasmos or hagiosune. It means “separation to God, and the conduct befitting those so separated. It denotes the manifestation of the quality of holiness in personal conduct.” I don’t understand Greek, and honestly, I can’t fathom true holiness. I know that I cannot attain it on my own and yet, God expects it of me. “Be ye holy, for I am holy” 1 Peter 1:16 The Word states that our bodies, as His temple, are holy. The greeting with a kiss is holy, our calling is holy, the Scriptures are holy. Holiness is not an option, it is essential. In the Psalms we read of the beauty of holiness. I am convicted and challenged as I think of my lack of striving for holiness. I am filled with awe and worship as I meditate on the holiness of God. I am confident that He will teach me as I pray for grace to grow in holiness and for direction to live in holiness. We are praising God for the souls who are seeking Him in repentance: Colton Frauhiger (BJ Frauhiger and Ben and Lana Sprunger), Lilly Pfister (Bro. Vince and Sis. Brandy), Riley Tonner (Bro. Brent and Sis. Rachelle), Marcus Kaehr (Bro. Jon and Sis. Juli), and Will Pfister (Bro. Rich and Sis. Amber). Bro. John and Sis. Jill Bradle (Roanoke) and Bro. Joe and Sis. Tara Sprunger (Indianapolis) blessed us with their pulpit ministry. We are grateful to them, as well as to all our ministers and their families, for their faithful service! Our prayers have been with those facing health challenges. Bro. Gary Garman (Sis. Deb) had surgery and Bro. Doug Dailey (Sis. Sue) is undergoing chemotherapy. Our dear Bro. Keith Baumgartner has won his earthly battle and gone Home. He will be sorely missed by all of us, but especially by his loving wife, Sis. Ruth; his children: Bro. Dan and Sis. Tricia Tucker, Bro. Nick and Sis. Leah Baumgartner, Bro. Chet Baumgartner; his mother, Sis. Betty Baumgartner; and many grandchildren. We extend our loving sympathy to Bro. Dennis and Sis. Carol Klopfenstein on the death of her mother, Sis. Vi Ringger (Bro. Sib, dec.) of Bluffton North. Sis. Beth Klopfenstein of Latty and Haiti has moved to Bluffton. We welcome her and pray that she will feel our love and support! Our Jr. High School students attended ACYF in Francesville. Thanks to our brethren there who provided this special opportunity for making new friendships that will hopefully last a lifetime. We held our annual church picnic on September 13. It’s such a blessing to see the yard filled with brothers, sisters and friends eating under the huge white tent, the children playing games and then everyone singing praises to our Lord. We enjoy worshipping together and we appreciate our fellowship outside the walls of the church building as well! Bro. Brady and Sis. Jacki, Myah, Cruz and Emri Ripple welcome Beau Markus into their family. Sis. Wanda Fiechter (Bro. Mark, dec.) is rejoicing with a new grandson. Bro. Nathan and Sis. Leann Gerber are thankful grandparents of little Ava Jae Rokey, born to their daughter, Sis. Leah, and Bro. Jordan Rokey of Bern, KS. Congratulations to Bro. Mark and Sis. Barb Gerber on the birth of their new grandson, Ivan J. Feller, born to Bro. Ross and Sis. Leah Feller of Leo. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:1,2 Indiana, Bluffton North Corinne Stettner, Amy Moser Earthly treasure is a deceitful measure of true pleasure. Our Sis. Bethany Maller was able to have surgery on August 28 to relieve shoulder pain. We pray that she can make a full and healthy recovery. Our dear Sis. Violet Ringger (Bro. Sib-dec.) passed away on September 5. We will miss Sis. Vi and the kindness that she shared with others, but rejoice in the fact that she is with our Lord. Her children are Carol (Dennis) Klopfenstein, Sam (Becky) Ringger, Steve (Myra) Ringger, and Lela (Greg) Leman. The middle school Sunday school classes enjoyed being in Francesville on September 13 for ACYF. Christian friendships and connections were made that will last a lifetime. We were blessed with a beautiful evening on September 13 for our annual church picnic. We are very thankful to have this time set aside for singing and fellowship with our church family. Two beautiful babies were born to two sisters in our congregation this past month. Boden Lee joined Bro. Zach and Sis. Julie Reinhard’s family on July 31. He joins big sister Bree at home. Grandparents are Bro. Gene (Sis. Darlene) Reinhard and Bro. Marvin (Sis. Robin) Beer of Mansfield. Adleigh Rose joined Bro. Kurt and Sis. Staci Fiechter’s family on August 19. She joins siblings Colten and Kali. Grandparents are Bro. Rick (Sis. Beth) Fiechter and, again, Bro. Marvin (Sis. Robin) Beer. Indiana, Francesville Jacki Huber, Mildred Clauss Luke 15:7 “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” We rejoice with the angels that a precious soul has repented, given her testimony of faith in Jesus, and was baptized! Cassidy Tanner (daughter of Glenn and Darla Tanner of Francesville) shared what Jesus did to change her life. We welcome her into the family of God. Sis. Cassidy gave her testimony on a recent Sunday morning before services, and was baptized that afternoon. Instead of the “traditional” meal after her baptism, the entire church was invited to a pork dinner/potluck at the Fellowship Center that evening. After the dinner, we enjoyed a beautiful evening of singing outside, and also listened to Bro. Les Kaeb, who is leaving “home” to work in Haiti with World Relief for the next few years, as he told of how God called them into that ministry. We will miss Bro. Les, Sister Christine, and their daughters, Sis. Leah and Lana, who plan to be in Haiti as well, but trust our Lord’s leading and commit them into His loving care. Bro. Lance and Sister Erica Gutwein and their children, Kelsey, Landon and Maddox, are thrilled to have a new family member, Jia Kai. Jia was born in China. She will be two years old on November 2 of this year. Adoption reminds us of the beautiful picture of God adopting us into His family, because He loves us and wants us all to be a part. We pray that the Lord’s wisdom will be with them as they raise precious little ones for His glory. Grandparents are Dennis and Phyllis Koebcke and Bro. Harv and Sis. Ellen Gutwein, all from Francesville, IN. We have been blessed by the visits of three ministers this month. Bro. Andy Kaufmann (Sis. Marie, October 2015 SILVER LINING 29 Bloomington, IL) was with us on a recent Sunday, Bro. Steve Frauhiger (Sis. Irene, Bluffton North, IN) shared the day when our Sunday School grades 6-8 hosted ACYF for the Indiana churches, and Bro. Jeff Neihouser (Sis. Sue, Morton, IL) shared with us on the Sunday of Sis. Cassidy Tanner’s testimony and baptism. Bro. Wendell Anliker (Sis. Karel) was a recent hospital patient. We are thankful he is home again and doing well. Indiana, Indianapolis Nancy Pfeifer, Sandy Lichtle “Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them (children): they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.” Psalm 127:5 Oh, how our quiver continues to be filled. Ivy Marcella was born August 16 and is blessing the home of Bro. J. R. and Sis. Tiffany Sauder and sisters, Aubrey and Ainsley. Grandparents are Bro. Jon and Sis. Wendy Schwab (Wolcott, IN) and Bro. John and Sis. Peg Sauder. The Sauder’s also have another new granddaughter in Morton, IL. Bro. Clayton and Sis. Trisha Monfre had Letty Joy on August 25. Her siblings are Stella and Ace. Her other grandparents are Bro. Tony and Sis. Deonne Monfre (Goodfield, IL). Meeting at the gate with enemies are four new members in the army of God. The weekend of September 12 and 13, four young women gave their testimonies of faith and were baptized. Ireland 30 SILVER LINING October 2015 Beebe (Bro. Mark and Sis. Julie), Kaitlyn Gutwein (Bro. Kevin and Sis. Laura), Brittaney Lintner (Marty and Tabitha, Rensselaer, IN), and Emmy Stieglitz (Bro. Greg and Sis. Lisa) are our new sisters in Christ. We have been blessed with visiting ministers. The weekend of the baptisms, Elder Bro. Wayne Banwart (Sis. Charlen, Champaign, IL), Elder Bro. Steve Gutwein (Sis. Linda, Francesville, IN), Bro. Bob Beebe (Sis. Sue, South Bend, IN), Bro. Randy Gasser (Sis. Sue, Detroit, MI), Bro. Justin Koch (Sis. Marcia, Washington, IL) and Bro. Fred Witzig (Sis. Nancy, Washington, IL) participated in serving us during the weekend. Prior to that on August 16, Bro. Tom Troxel (LaCrosse, IN) served us. Indiana, Lacrosse Meagan Frank, Julie Rocke “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” Psalm 90:12 There are many opportunities to be taught and to gain wisdom, then in return to teach others of God and His marvelous ways. From the youngest to the eldest of us, we can and should be learning all God has to teach us. The youngest member of our congregation joined us this month. Bryce David was born to Bro. Brad and Sis. Meagan Frank. Older sisters, Brielle and Adree, along with grandparents Elder Bro. Curt and Sis. Lyla Frank and Bro. Chris and Sis. Carla Wuethrich (Chicago, IL) welcome him home with joy. There is so much to learn and teach when God sends children into a family. After taking the month of July off, our Sunday School classes have resumed. A special thanks to Bro. Glen and Sis. Kerri Gudeman who completed their teaching term in June. Bro. Rudy Troxel and Sis. Julie Rocke were asked to take their place. Our prayer is that the students will be interested and willing learners and that the teachers will learn alongside them and be willing to teach that which God provides. School is back in session in our area. We have been prayerful for each of our school-age children as they start back – some for the first time, some continuing in the same school, some in new schools, and some into college. For each of us on the way of truth, no matter our age, we had the occasion to attend the General Conference in Morris, MN and now to listen to the Conference recordings at church on Wednesday evenings. It is with thankful hearts that we sit under the sound of the Word, praising God for answering our prayers for the presence of His Holy Spirit during the conference week. There is much to absorb and apply in our daily lives! We also appreciated the services of Bros. Joe Gerst (Sis. Connie, Iowa City, IA) and Mark Zimmerman (Sis. Cheryl, Eureka, IL) this month. May God provide a special blessing to those who are given the responsibility to teach from the pulpit. May God bless each one with a mind to learn and a heart to serve Him wherever we may be and whatever our lot and stage in life. “So teach us to number our days…” Indiana, Leo Kirby Reutter “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for—the evidence of things not seen!” Hebrews 11:1 It seemed like such a boring month. Nothing interesting happened that I could remember. I could not think of a single thing to write about. Sincere panic started to set in. What if—for the first time in Leo’s history—there was nothing to report?? (I should not have been concerned.) That’s when I remembered that the Wiegand’s—serving in Africa—did not have a boring month. “Please pray for Bro. Erik who got attacked by bees today. Erik was working in the skid steer and the bees got disturbed. The bees attacked him in the skid steer. He got out and tried to run for the reservoir. There were so many bees and so many stings that they knocked him down. At that point he said he knew if he didn’t get up that he might die. So he forced himself to get up and stumble to the water. He jumped in and went under repeatedly, but the bees were still waiting for him. He started yelling for help. I couldn’t figure out what was going on!” Fast forward: “Please send my sincerest thanks to the church for praying for me. After a few hours of high fever, vomiting, and muscle pain, my body finally got rid of the poison from the bees. I am thankful to have had the strength to work a full day today. I am also happy to report that the bees and I are still friends and they are still pollinating our berries. We now have a mutual understanding regarding property rights, excavators, and honey sharing.” And then I remembered that Bro. Ross and Sis. Leah Feller didn’t have a boring month either. “BOY! Praising God for little Ivan J. Feller, born at 6 pounds, 11 ounces, 19 inches. Leah is doing well. Ivan, on the other hand, is being a little champ, but is having some respiratory issues. After some time in our room last night, he was transferred to the NICU and is being treated for an infection. It doesn’t seem to be terribly serious, but your prayers would still be greatly appreciated!” Fast forward: “I just wanted to let you know that Ivan is doing really well! Last night they removed his oxygen and his feeding tube. He is breathing mostly normal and all indicators point to the infection being under control and going away. Thanks so much for the prayers and encouragement!” And then I remembered that the Gateway Foster Care Department did not have boring month. “I have a big, immediate prayer request! Ky and Dean (not their real names, but God knows) have been in one of our foster homes for two weeks. They will need a new foster home tomorrow evening, due to a few different things. Currently, DCS is vetting some relatives of theirs to place them with. PLEASE PRAY that the relatives are approved within the NEXT 24 HOURS, as these two boys are just as distraught today as they were the first day, and this will be the best place for them. There are many more details, but I believe this is enough to collectively and effectively bring these two sweethearts to the throne!” Fast forward: “Thank you SO MUCH for prayers sent up on behalf of Ky and Dean. Just as the clock was hitting 24 hours, I got a call from the county that placed them with us. They had located a wonderful foster home that could meet these boys’ cultural needs just as well as the relatives could. Your prayers made a difference. These children ARE in God’s hands!” And then I remembered that the Gateway Adoptions Department didn’t have a boring month either: “I just wanted to put out an urgent plea for prayers and to add to my request placed on the prayer list this morning. Things are heating up at the hospital with our birth mom in labor and the birth dad pitching a fit and threatening to stop the adoption. Pray for a miracle in the birth dad’s heart. Pray that he can connect with the adoptive parents and see their love for him and the love of Jesus.” Fast forward: “Thanks all for your prayers. God is working. The battle still is ongoing, October 2015 SILVER LINING 31 but the birth mother has given the adoptive parents voluntary custody for the time being. Continue to pray that birth dad’s heart will be softened and that he will not fight the adoption. There is hope. Our God is big. I was able to give the birth dad a big hug before I left the hospital today and tell him that I was praying for him.” And then I remembered that Bro. Zachary and Sis. Abby Schumacher didn’t have a boring month either: “To our church family at Leo: We have felt called to take a leap of faith and be used by the Lord to serve with The New Beginnings as a Mentor Couple in Fort Myers, FL. We want to express our gratefulness for the love and support we have experienced from the Leo congregation. We will miss being a part of this community, but are excited to see how God will use us with The New Beginnings. Thank you for your prayers and words of encouragement; we have been blessed by you all!” Once I started to look beyond my own nose, I couldn’t believe how non-boring my life had become! By faith, babies were born, babies were adopted, foster homes were opened, couples were called—and bees were banned from harming God’s elect. And what shall I more say? For the time would fail me to tell of Sis. Stephanie Moser (visiting from China), or of the Princeville Choir (including three visiting ministers), or of everything else that happens when we open our eyes to the 32 SILVER LINING October 2015 needs of others—not to mention the vibrant work of Christ through His Spirit and Body! Thank God for such a “boring” month… Indiana, Milford Jodi Beer, Minnie Beer We send our love and sympathy to Bro. Larry and Sis. Melinda Gramm in the passing of her father, Bro. Lynn Knapp (Cissna Park, IL.) Bro. Walt Steffen (late Sis. Dorothy) passed away on September 7. May God comfort his family: Bro. Dick (Sis. Gwen) Steffen, Pat (Wade) Stoller, Sis. Shirley Stoller (Latty), Tim (Marla) Steffen, Marlene Bokholdt, Kristi (Niles) Miller, and Caralee Steffen. We appreciated having visiting ministers: Bro. Daron Price (Sis. Monica, Athens), Bro. Daren Metz (Sis Rita, Gridley), Bro. Brett Lanz (Sis. Renee, Rittman), Bro. Matthew Rassi (Sis. Bridget, Chicago), and Bro. Les Kaeb (Sis. Christine, Francesville). We ask for God’s blessings on each one for laboring on our behalf. Bro. Bob and Sis. Sue Bowerman are thankful for another granddaughter. Eleanor Kathryn was born to Bro. Rick and Sis. Carla Bowerman (West Lafayette). Indiana, Remington Jenni Honegger, Marcella Tyler Visiting ministers Bro. Ed Fritz from Washington, IL, Bro. Ken Eisenmann (Sis. Sharon) from Cissna Park, IL, and Bro. Chuck Kellenberger (Sis. Debbie) from Elgin, IL all gave of their time and heart to minister to us this month. We thank each one and hope to see them again soon! Sis. Helen Waibel (Bro. Ralph) spent some time in the hospital recently with a blood clot and is now recuperating at home. We pray for God’s healing hand to be upon her and for strength and compassion for her family as they help to care for her. Indiana, South Bend Joshua Martinez “Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.” John 4:34 Our thanks and prayers are with all those who serve the Lord at home and in distant lands. Bro. Richard and Sis. Samantha Gramm hosted the annual Sunday School Picnic at their pond. We are thankful to have Bro. Caleb Schafer (Sis. Laura) safely home from a mission trip to Haiti with Loving Shepherd Ministries. We also pray for Bro. Bob and Sis. Sue Beebe who will spend a week serving at Hospital Lumiere in Haiti. May the Lord bless Bro. Jeff Waibel (Sis. Margo, Leo, IN) for sharing the Good News from the pulpit. “All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.” Titus 3:15 Indiana, Valparaiso Sherry Meiss Our thanks goes out to Bro. Paul Schulz and Sis. Kelli from Burlington, IA for spending time with us in worship and sharing their family in Sunday school. What a wonderful surprise to have Bro. Bob and Sis. Marguerite Hoerr in church with us last Sunday. They are such a true blessing to us all and we are so grateful God has brought them to our Valparaiso congregation. Sis. Sharon Pratt has taken charge of our ladies meeting since Sis. Lois Bucher resigned after serving for many years. There are many sewing projects going on at once, the making of quilted blankets that get sent to Haiti and local community organizations, pillows are sewn, stuffed and sent to Mexico. Then, parachutes are cut out, ribbon is sewn on and words of encouragement are written on them. These are for Bibles to be dropped over rural parts of Columbia that cannot be reached by any other means. Plus, the church members put together personal hygiene kits that were sent to Haiti as well. May God bless all the hands that work so hard for these projects. Please pray for Bro. Tim Bucher who will be having hip surgery in October and the members of our congregation who are having health issues and their families. Plus, don’t forget to pray for each other. If you are in the area, please know you are welcome to come and worship with us. We are just south of US Hwy 30 on Hwy 49. Indiana, West Lafayette Indiana, Wolcott Kris Widmer, Libby Wahl Beckie Lehman, Erica Blume Our congregation relishes the Fall return of the students! We a re buoyed up by their youthful zeal and enthusiasm for the Lord! Also anticipating our fall startup are the little ones thru teenagers as we once again begin Kids Club! Our all church Bible Study will be“Four Great Loves”. Thank you Bro. Les (Sis. Christine) Kaeb, Francesville, and Bro. Ryan (Sis. Jessica) Bertsch, Bluffton North, for your pulpit services and the startup of our mid-week minister rotation! We are all beneficiaries of coming when the church doors are open! We received that blessing again when many joined us for Sunday worship after the PYG Fall Semester Sing. New to our area are r ecently married Bro. Troy and Sis. Alexa Fiechter (Bluffton). We embrace you as our own! We also appreciate the opportunity to welcome Bro. Kirk and Sis. Keri Plattner’s foreign exchange student, Tiffany Scafe (Jamaica). Joyfully welcoming little Eleanor Kathryn, are Bro. Rick and Sis Carla Bowerman, Sadie and Sam, born September 15! We look forward to the opportunity to host the Eastern World Relief Meeting, “Proclaim and Serve”, November 7! Please mark your calendar and save the date! Sis. Rebekah Edelman (Bro. Kip and Sis. Donita) has moved to China for 11 months as an English teacher. We pray that she will return safely and know that she will have many experiences to share from her sojourn to China! Two dear sisters in our congregation have recently said an earthly goodbye to their grandfathers. Sis. Jody Bahler (Bro. Mike) will remember her grandpa, Bro. Virgil Hartter (Sabetha, KS) with much fondness. Bro. Virgil’s brother, Bro. Lester Hartter (Bern, KS), also passed away, leaving memories to fill the heart of his granddaughter, Sis. Heidi Bahler (Bro. Jeff). On August 29, we were privileged to hear the testimony of God’s work in the lives of our new brothers, Justin Schwab (Bro. Tim and Sis. Rachel) and Ryan Warren (Randy and Beth) and witness their baptisms the next day. Elder Bros. Dan Kilgus (Sis. Jenna, Remington), Ted Steffen (Sis. Sandy, Alto) and Nick Gutwein (Sis. Suzanne, West Lafayette) were part of this work. Bro. Tom Schambach (Sis. Connie, Elgin) shared the word with us on Sunday August 30. Elder Bros. Lynn Steiglitz (Sis. Leonda, Leo), Tom Klotzle (Sis. Jody, Altadena), and Steve Gutwein (Sis. Linda, Francesville) were also with us on August 30 to assist with the elder ordination of our Bro. Greg Lehman (Sis. Mary Beth). We repeatedly offer October 2015 SILVER LINING 33 our prayers for the Lord’s Spirit and guidance in Bro. Greg’s efforts to shepherd our flock. We are thankful for the years that Bro. Dan Kilgus has given himself for our benefit, but are so grateful that the Lord has opened this door for local elder leadership! Fellowshipping with others of like mind and faith was a blessing for our church on the weekend of our invite-a-guest event, September 12 and 13. Bro. Merlin Meyer (Sis. Marilyn, Lester) willingly served our church spiritual food. We are appreciative that so many visitors would travel to spend time with us. Michael and Sis. Melissa Blanding, Kylie, Michaela and Evan are grieving the loss of Michael’s brother, Carl Berg, who passed away unexpectedly. Our hearts and prayers have ascended to the Father for the family. Iowa, Bloomfield Teresa Schock We sang, “God Be with You”, to Bro. Dennis and Sis. Gerty Esslinger as they have moved to central Illinois. “God be with you till we meet again; By His counsels guide, uphold you…” Bro. Randy Beer (Sis. Deb, Milford) was here August 16. He mentioned that we tend to say we are blessed if we have a good harvest. But those who don’t are they not blessed? We need to be careful what we call blessings. On August 23, we were blessed to have Bro. Zach Anderson (Sis. Carla, Congerville) 34 SILVER LINING October 2015 for the weekend. He said that, if we all had that Christ-like love, there wouldn’t be any schisms. Also ministering here was Bro. Tom Lanz (Sis. Mary, OakvilleMediapolis). His parents, Bro. Ed and Sis. Joan, came with them. It was a special time. Bro. Ed was our elder in Pulaski before Bro. Doug. Bro. Roy Metzger (Sis. Evelyn) lost his brother, Bro. Elmer Metzger of Lester. May God comfort his heart. Iowa, Elgin Maria Rocke My husband (Bro. Dean) and I were blessed with another little girl, Myra Ann, on September 1. Her big sister Rylee and grandparents Bro. Lon & Sis. Sandy Butikofer and Sis. Kathy Rocke (Tremont, IL) are thankful for her arrival. Bro. Lon and Sis. Sandy Butikofer’s family grew again this month with the birth of their granddaughter Shelby Grace on September 14. Shelby is the daughter of Aaron & Andrea Butikofer and joins her big sister Jaelyn at home. What precious little bundles of love! We appreciate elder Bro. Wayne Grimm (Sis. Rose, West Bend, IA) coming and exhorting us one Wednesday evening this month. May God bless his effort. Sis. Beulah Butikofer has moved to another care facility. Her new address is: Good Neighbor Home c/o Marietta’s Place 105 McCarren Dr. Manchester, IA 52057 Iowa, Garden Grove Laura Funk Visiting ministers this month included Bro. Dana Nieman (Remington, IN), Bro. Dale Wulf (Lester, IA) and Bro. Darren Massner (West Bend, IA) and Elder Bro. Doug Schock (Bloomfield, IA). We pray for God’s blessing on these brothers and their families for the time, effort and traveling for our benefit. We also enjoyed many other visitors. We thank Bro. Leland and Sis. Kathy Metzger for hosting a fall picnic and singing at their “southern home”. We had many visitors for this annual event. A beautiful evening was enjoyed by all—food, fellowship and singing. Sis. Dorothy Neal spent several days in ICU and then a medical floor in a Des Moines Hospital. She is home now and improving slowly. I was looking through a magazine ... some advice “from an old farmer”-“It don’t take a very big person to carry a grudge.” Iowa, Iowa City Diana Butikofer We were blessed to have Bro. Kent and Sis. Betty Getz (Elgin, IA) and their family with us recently. We pray the Lord will bless Bro. Kent for ministering. Iowa, Lester Audrey Metzger, Joyce Moser We have completed listening to the recording from our annual Brotherhood Conference. We want to express thankfulness for the loving and wise counsel shared to us. Our hearts are always filled with joy when we can share the news that a dear one has peace with God and man. Michael Leuthold (Ashley) has made this known to us. We are thankful for him. We pray for God’s Spirit to continue to work in his life. Hospital patients this past month include: Bro. Bill (Sis. Erma) Gerber and Dalton VerBeek (Tim and Sis. Becky). Our hope for each one is restored good health and God’s help on their way to recovery. Several families from Lester feel the void left by the passing of their sister-in-law, Sis. Lois (Bro. Boyd) Metzger, from Chicago, IL, on September 6. Our sympathy goes out to Bro. Donald Metzger, Bro. Art (Sis. Kristy) Metzger, Bro. Harvey (Sis. Mary) Metzger, and Bro. Rodney (Sis. Polly) Metzger and their families, as this large family circle has lost another link. Lester’s oldest brother-infaith, Bro. Elmer Metzger, died September 11, at nearly 97 years of age. Thankful for having shared his life are his wife, Sis. Mariann, and surviving sons: Bro. Jim (Sis. Lois), Bro. Gary (Sis. Beth), Bro. Ray (Kathy), Don (Pat), and Arlyn (Nancy), as well as son-in-law, Bro. Lynn (Sis. Kathy) Doorneweerd, along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Surviving sisters-in-law from Lester area are: Sis. Alice Metzger, Sis. Estellyn Metzger, Sis. Donna Metzger, Sis. Estelle Leuthold, Sis. Janet Wysong, Sis. Leona Moser, and a brother-in-law, Bro. Frank Moser. Our sympathy goes out to them, but we also recognize a measure of thankfulness that his earthly challenges are done. Bro. Elmer was fondly remembered for greeting nearly anyone he met with “You’ve got it made!”, but during his funeral service, Bro. Kevin Wulf made that very meaningful by reminding us that “if the Lord is our Shepherd, we truly do have it made ” when we leave this life. We want to truly thank visiting ministers who so faithfully give of themselves to share God’s Word. Often, they come for a weekend of fellowship only to be spent in service on our behalf, and we appreciate their willingness---and that of their families---to be used in this way. During the past month, the following brothers shared our pulpit: Bro. Dean (Sis. Wanda) Messner (Winthrop, MN); Bro. Kevin (Sis. Sandy) Banwart and Bro. Darren (Sis. Nora) Fehr (both from West Bend, IA); Bro. Jon (Sis. Lori) Baumgartner (Bern, KS); and Bro. Kevin (Sis. Annie) Wulf (Morris, MN). Iowa, Oakville-Mediapolis Kelsey Banwart, Tami Lanz We are thankful for our visiting ministers this month: Elder Bro. Rod Bajema (Sis. Sue, Lester, IA) and Bro. Greg Fehr (Sis. Denise, West Bend, IA). May God bless them for their labors. We enjoyed listening to the conference recordings on four Wednesday nights. It was good to hear the many teachings from the Bible. We are thankful for our elders and for all their time and effort. “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.” 1 Timothy 5:17 Iowa, West Bend Yvonne Bruellman, Becky Virkler “To every thing there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven:”Ecclesiastes 3:1 Bro. Wendell and Sis. Karen Schmidt are hosting foreign exchange student, Luna Micheletti, from Italy. We welcome Luna and ask God to bless her and the Schmidt family. Bro. Duane and Sis. Ruth Metzger have opened heart and home to Jean Almonor, originating from Haiti and relocating here from Fort Lauderdale, FL. We welcome Jean and are thankful he has employment in our area. May God continue to guide and bless his future. Many thoughts and prayers are with our college students. For those who moved away, we count it a blessing when you can come back and assemble with us. Jack Fehr has announced his engagement to Lauren Link. May God be present as they make future plans. Jack’s parents are Bro. Cory and Sis. Jennifer Fehr. Each visitor has been a blessing to our congregation. Those visitors who ministered the Word were: Bro. Aaron Frank (Sis. Sharla, Elgin, October 2015 SILVER LINING 35 IA), Bro. Bruce Frank (Sis. Bonita, Cissna Park, IL), Bro. Dale Frank (Sis. Christine, Oakville-Mediapolis, IA), Bro. Ryan Schock (Sis. Melanie, Bloomfield, IA), and Bro. Ron Isch (Sis. Jane, Lamont-Gridley, KS). May God bless their labors. Hospitalized this month were: Sis. Kathy Fehr (Bro. Wayne), Sis. Carole Fehr (Bro. Larry), Connie Zaugg (Bro. Bill), and Bro. Chuck Mogler (Sis. Beth). We ask God’s presence as they deal with their afflictions. Sis. Sonia Banwart (Bro. Joel, Eureka, IL) was called to her eternal rest. Our sympathy and prayers are with this family circle, including Sis. Joyce Banwart. Japan, Tokyo Anna Inoue, Marie Inoue Our Sunday School has resumed again after a month of vacation. We enjoy several new faces in attendance and thankful they can also learn of the blessed story of Jesus. Several have appreciated encouragement and prayers for their surgical procedures in the hospital: Sis. Haruyo Onoda and Kazuko (Utsuki) Sugibayashi. Kazuko is the oldest sister of Sisters Yoshiko and Hiroko. May our ongoing prayers for them and their families help them in their recoveries. It was nice to welcome several visitors this month: Barbara Woloszczyk from France (cousin of Sis. Marie Inoue), Timothy and Alison Stillwell of Indy, school friend of Sis. Anna Inoue. We are 36 SILVER LINING October 2015 always glad for Hisato Inoue’s visits, plus the ministry of Bro. Akihiro (Sis. Carrie) and sons of our Shioda church on August 30. This week there were several national holidays. One of those days was used for our church cleaning. We were thankful for good weather for doing outside and inside special jobs and all who could help. The church area also experienced a rather strong earthquake, #4 on the Richter scale a few weeks ago. We were thankful nothing was broken, although drawers in the church kitchen were half ajar, things fell on the counter, and adhesive between some tiles cracked and fell. Several of our assembly traveled this summer. We were very thankful for safety and blessed fellowship in the Lord. thankful for God’s many provisions and for His guiding hand! We rejoice with first-time parents, Bro. Jordan and Sis. Leah Rokey as little Ava Jae Rokey joined their family on August 18. Grandparents are Galen and Nancy Rokey (Sabetha, KS) and Bro. Nathan and Sis. LeAnn Gerber (Bluffton, IN). May God bless them as they seek His guidance in the journey of parenting! We were also able to witness a “spiritual birth”, as Sis. Michaela Strahm (Bro. Mike and Sis. Diane) was baptized on August 23. Our prayers are with her as she seeks God to direct her paths! Visiting ministers this month were Bros. Jeff Bahr (Sis. Janice, Kiowa), Aaron Luthi (Sis. Maria, Lamont) and Klint Beyer (Sis. Kara, Sabetha). May God richly bless Kansas, Bern them for their willingness to serve us Jill Meyer, Rita Menold by bringing forth the Gospel. “Thankful for health, thankful Many prayers have been offered for life, for Sis. Connie (Elder Bro. John) Thankful for guidance in sorrow Lehman as she has undergone and strife. different medical procedures. We Thankful for food and ripe are thankful she is back home golden grain, and recovering and pray they will For all that is needful our life continue to feel God’s nearness. to sustain. Retired Elder Bro. Lester Thankful for those who daily impart, Hartter passed away on August 29, Strength for the journey, cheer for at the age of 99. He spent 28 years the heart. in service to our congregation as Thankful to hear the still small voice, an elder and will be missed by all. Making our heart in life’s Our sympathy goes to his sons, sorrows rejoice.” Bro. Steve (Sis. Lois), Lynn (Barb), Gospel Hymns, #480, vs. 1,2,5,7 Bro. Neil (Sis. Evelyn) and his sonWhat a comforting reminder in-law, Bro. Leonard Baumgartner, that no matter what stage of life we as well as many grandchildren and find ourselves, or whatever situation great-grandchildren. we may be facing, we can be Kansas, Ft. Scott Karen Kellenberger We appreciated our visiting ministers, Elder Bro. Randy Kellenberger (Sis. Karen, Kansas City, MO), and Bro. Daren Metz (Sis. Rita, Gridley, IL). On consecutive Wednesday evenings, we were blessed to listen to the recordings of the General Brotherhood Conference. Sunday, September 20, the annual fall church picnic was enjoyed with those from the Kansas City and Lamar congregations. One ministering brother related that, as a Christian we have to say, “I’m not going to stay in place.” As he observed his great granddaughter furiously rocking back and forth on a rocking horse, but never moving forward, he admonished that the same is true of us if we are going back and forth and making a lot of activity, but are not really growing in our walk with the Lord. “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be glory now and forever. Amen.” 2 Peter 3:18 Kansas, Kiowa Millicent Frieden, Janice Bahr “Therefore, whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” Matt. 7:24-27 I’m sure we are all familiar with the Sunday School Action song: “The wise man built his house upon the rock, the wise man built his house upon the rock, the wise man built his house upon the rock, and the rains came tumbling down. The rains came down and the floods came up, the rains came down and the floods came up, the rains came down and the floods came up, and the house on the rock stood firm. The foolish man built his house upon the sand, the foolish man built his house upon the sand, the foolish man built his house upon the sand, and the rains came tumbling down. The rains came down and the floods came up, the rains came down and the floods came up, the rains came down and the floods came up, and the house on the sand went splat. So build your house on the Lord Jesus Christ, so build your house on the Lord Jesus Christ, so build your house on the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Blessings will come down. The Blessings come down as the Prayers go up, the Blessings come down as the Prayers go up, the Blessings come down as the Prayers go up, so build your house on the lord.” Several years ago, the littlest Sunday School class wanted to do a demonstration of that song for the big classes. So here they came with a cup of water and two little boxes. One box had a rock with a little house on top of it. The other had a pile of sand with a house on top of it. They asked us to sing the song with them and as we sang about the wise man, and the rain came down, they poured the water on the house on the rock, and it just stood firm. But when we sang about the foolish man and they poured the water on the little house, the sand just melted or went splat. It was so precious, and they were so excited to show the big kids their lesson. I have to say the blessings did come down in more ways than one. It is fall harvest time in our area, and I again marvel at God’s handiwork as those tiny seeds are planted, die and come up green: Then die again leaving soybeans, or corn, or milo, or sunflowers to harvest. I like the way the Bible states it best. “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.” Ps. 19:1 Our prayers go out to Sis. Donna Piper, who fell and suffered a slight concussion. There have been several others who are having some medical issues also. May God, our Great Physician, grant them all His loving hand of healing. Kansas, Lamont-Gridley Dorene Metzger Labor Day weekend brought a number of guests to our locale. The brothers and sons came for the opening days of dove season, but the fellowship of families was a bright spot. A supper and October 2015 SILVER LINING 37 singing on Sunday evening was a time of renewing acquaintances and an encouragement that lingers for all of us. Fourteen cases of canned turkey were picked up at the Mennonite Central States Distribution Center in Newton, KS this week and brought to three local food pantries. This is such a wonderful way to help lessen the food needs with the less fortunate. Our Kansas brethren help at the Mennonite Center in Newton usually two times a year boxing and banding cases of meat, filling health kits and school kits, as well as other work. These are blessed times of fellowship as well as helping others do work for the Lord. Like the Good Samaritan, we need to be about doing for the Lord--not for our glory here on earth, but these “works” are proofs of our thankfulness for our salvation and to glorify our Heavenly Father. Extending the hand of friendship, sharing Bibles as well as caring for the hurting, grieving, and lonely around us testifies of God’s love for His people here on earth thru our small efforts. Kansas, Sabetha Crystal Hartter, Dawn Strahm It is always a blessing to have visiting ministers. This month we were privileged to hear Bro. Aaron Luthi (Sis. Maria, Lamont-Gridley, KS), Bro. John Baumgartner (Sis. Lori, Bern, KS), Bro. Don Sinn (Sis. Linda, Silverton, OR), Bro. Dennis Rassi (Sis. Diane, Austin, TX) and Bro. 38 SILVER LINING October 2015 Ed Strahm (Sis. Ramona, Bern, KS) bring forth the Word of God. May God bless them. Sunday school has resumed after our summer break. Our prayers are with the teachers as they help the students learn about the ways of the Lord. “The Sunday school is our delight. We love it more and more; ‘Tis here we learn to do the right And live forever more. We hear the truth, so pure and clear, Of Jesus’ love so sweet and dear; There we are taught to lift our eyes to Him who lives on high.” The Sunday School, Hymns of Zion, #73 Sabetha enjoyed hosting the Senior Bible Class Kansas Churches. It is always a pleasure to see the young adults renew and create friendships. Thank you to all who made the effort to attend. We welcome into the fold Sis. Emily Meeks (Bro. Jerry and Sis. Christy) as we heard her testimony and witnessed her baptism. May God grant her grace to continue striving to our Heavenly goal. Elder Bro. Jay Luthi (Sis. Jane, Lamont-Gridley, KS) and Elder Bro. Brad Strahm (Sis. Michelle, Bern, KS) helped with this work. Our prayers for healing and encouragement are with Bro. Harlan Meyer (Sis. Florence) as he was a hospital patient this month and has become a resident of the Apostolic Christian Nursing Home. We laid to rest our dear Sis. Mildred Strahm this month. We pray that her family can feel the comforting hand of our Heavenly Father. We also lift up in prayer Bro. Rod and Sis. Arlene Grimm and family as they grieve the loss of their sister-in-law and aunt, Lois Metzger. We will soon begin listening to the conference recordings. May each of us have a pliable heart and apply the teachings to our lives. We thank the elder brothers for their labors on our behalf. Note of Thanks: The family of Sis. Ruby Grimm would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to each one of you who remembered us with prayers, cards, memorial donations, and other acts of kindness in the passing of our loved one. May God richly bless you. Gerald Grimm, Darin & Marci Grimm & family, Mark & Brenda Nenadov & family Kansas, Wichita Max and Judy Reimschisel Sunday school fellowship, at Sabetha gave our high school students an interesting weekend. Challenging games and activities reflect physical strength and talents of different students. It just goes to show that we each have different abilities and we are not all alike. When it comes to the spiritual area of our life, we realize that we all have a common thread to all. 1 Cor. 10:13 “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man.” Bro. Dennis Rassi asked what would they like talk about? Temptation was the response. It is evident that we all have to deal with different types of temptations. Hymns of Zion, number 166, seemed to sum it up pretty well, “Yield not to temptation, for yielding is sin; Each victory will help you some other to win; Fight manfully onward, Dark passions subdue; Look ever to Jesus, He’ll carry you through.Chorus: Ask the Savior to help you, Comfort, strengthen, and keep you; he is willing to aid you, he will carry you through.” 1 Cor. 10:13 “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” Sisters Anna Marie Warner, Emma Miller, and Rose Reeves are still homebound with illnesses and stages of life, it is not good for them to venture out. Our prayers, home visits and singing have become a part of our worship service. This is the part that keeps us together. Sis. Judy Reimschisel is off her crutches and is striving to have her normal gait in walking. Fall is quickly approaching and reminds us of the beauty of God’s creation. The leaves on the trees are dying and yet the death brings about beauty when the leaves become vibrant shades of crimson, orange, and yellow. The death and deterioration of fall also brings forth life soon after in the spring. Just as Jesus Christ suffered and died on the cross at Golgotha and gloriously rose three days later, fall is a wonderful example of what Jesus did for us and a great season for us to enjoy. Bro. Jay Luthi and Sis. Jane of Lamont, KS, and Bro. Duane Metzger and Sis. Ruth of West Bend, IA were our visiting visitors of the month. Mexico, Ixtlán Ruth Gerber Missionary, you’re in a faraway land/Forgotten by many/Ignored by some/But not by me./Missionary, preach with boldness and confidence/Jesus is with you/Giving you faith and his protection/ And victory until the end. Missionary, today I remember you in this song/ You said “No” to yourself to say “Yes” to Him/And you went far away/ You didn’t care that you would suffer/Just to take the Word to the souls that are lost/Missionary, don’t forget I’m praying for you/ Missionary, there’s a people that prays for you. This is a rough translation of the special number we sang for Bro. Marshall and Sis. Jan Heinold as we bid them farewell on Sunday, September 20. After more than 20 years of faithfully serving and shepherding the church here they are returning to their home church of Washington, IL. It was a day of mixed emotions for us all. We are sad to have them go, not ready to cut the strings from our spiritual “parents”; but happy that they can be with their family again, thankful for their work in the church and their good testimony in the whole town. Praise be to God for his faithfulness and theirs. We simply want to recognize those that labor among us, and are over us in the Lord, and admonish us; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake (1 Thes. 5:1213). May God receive all the glory for the sheaves they will bring with them. Michigan, Alto Renee Steffen, Shelli Oesch This month our congregation joined with Bro. Lloyd Blough in celebrating a landmark event. Lloyd reached his 100th birthday this August. He, along with many friends and family, enjoyed a birthday reception honoring him and his legacy over the past century. Happy birthday and God’s blessings from all of us, Lloyd. Also this month we had the privilege of hearing the spiritual testimony of Abigail Steffen and witnessing her baptism. We rejoice with you, Abigail, and are thankful for you and God’s work in your life. Bro. Mark and Sis. Karen Wettstein from Lacrosse, IN joined us Sunday for Abigail’s baptism. August 29 was the wedding day for Paula Blough and Michael Gamerl. Paula’s parents are Carl and Brenda Blough of Alto. Born this month to Sis. Megan and Bro. Shane Martin was baby Ezra Shea. His great grandparents are Bro. Tom and Sis. Joan Schrenk. Baby Adeline Kay was born to Bro. Brett and Sis. Laura Plattner of Detroit. Her grandparents are Bro. Jim and Sis. Julie Blough and Bro. Howard and Sis. Kristin Plattner. October 2015 SILVER LINING 39 We extend a special thanks to ministers who have visited recently: Bro Mark and Sis. Karen Wettstein from Lacrosse, IN, Bro. Matt and Sis. Rebekah Kauffman from Bloomington, IL, Bro. Ryan and Sis. Jessica Bertsch from Bluffton North, IN, and Bro. John Leman from Wolcott, IN. Prayer requests for healing this month have come from Sis. Donna Oesch, Bro. Tom Schrenk, and John Schlatter. All have undergone surgery recently with good outcomes. Praise God. Congratulations to our Sis. Heather Steffen as she is newlyengaged to Bro. Joe Klotzle. Joe is from Altadena, the son of Bro. Tom and Sis. Jodi Klotzle from Altadena, CA. Heather’s parents are Bro. Ted and Sis. Sandy Steffen. Note of thanks; I would like to thank the Alto church for your prayers, words of encouragement and cards during the last several months as I have undergone chemo treatments for leukemia. A recent bone marrow biopsy has given a good report that the leukemia cells have been greatly reduced to being barely detectable and at this time my chemo treatments have ended. While there is presently no cure for this type of leukemia, it remains very treatable and I am grateful to our great God and Savior and for the support of my church family and loved ones during this special time in my life. May all things resound to the honor and glory of His name. In Christ’s love, Bro. Wally Gerst 40 SILVER LINING October 2015 Michigan, Bay City Sarah Knochel “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;” Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 Our congregation truly felt verse two this past month. We are thankful for the times of rejoicing and understand that in this life there will be times of sadness, but in the end, God is ever gracious and merciful to us. We rejoice with Scott and Summer Schmidt on the birth of a daughter, Macie Rae. Excited older brothers are Chase and Owen. Grandparents are Mike and Sis. Cheryl Schmidt. Sis. Margaret Schlatter is Macie’s great grandmother. Our hearts are saddened with the passing of Bro. Glenn Ruegsegger, Jr. We want to remember his wife, Sis. Maria, and his children Glenn III, Roxanne (Jacob) Cutchins, Michelle (Brad) Marciniak and Sis. Rebekah (Bro. Chad) Wieland; his grandchildren: Erikah and Chase Ruegsegger, Tess and Austin Wieland. We also want to remember his siblings: Anita Hine, Bro. Clinton (Sherry), Sis. Winifred (John) Gorney, Kathleen (David) Wernli, Paul (Diane), and Bro. Lee (Sis. Alice, Goodfield). Bro. Glenn was very involved with World Relief and we are thankful for the example of service he left to our congregation. Sis. Brooklynn Lehner, Bro. Greg (Sis. Lynette) Munsel and Bro. Kurt Munsel are our new Sunday School teachers. We pray that God will fill them with wisdom that they may teach our youth of God’s will for their lives. Outgoing teachers are Sis. Jenay Knochel, Bro. Derrell (Sis. Sue) Steffen and Bro. Brian (Sis. Char) Wieland. We celebrated Sis. Mabelle Wackerle’s 100th birthday at lunch on a recent Sunday. We are thankful that God has blessed Sis. Mabelle with many wonderful years! We appreciate that Bro. Gary Maibach (Sis. Marianne, Smithville, OH) stopped by Bay City on his vacation in our area. It is always nice to have mid-week visitors to our congregation. Evidence of the earthly harvest is all around us. We pray that just as we see fields “ripe onto harvest” our hearts and lives would be bearing fruit for harvest. May God’s hand of safety and provision be with each one. Michigan, Detroit Manuela Denes “The works of the Lord are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.” Psalms 111:2 Here’s an easy equation: warm days plus cool nights equal an array of early autumn colors! Here in southern Ontario and southeastern Michigan, the weather has been outstanding allowing for a number of outdoor activities and the promise of an amazing harvest. Labor Day weekend is the time of year that our dads and children have their campout. This past Sunday we had a beautiful afternoon for the fall church picnic hosted by the Sunday School. The Sunday school had the opportunity to travel to Alto, MI for Michigan Youth Day. We’re truly blessed to have so many opportunities for fun memories and fellowship. A big “thank you” to Bay City, MI and Bro. Bill Waibel for making the drive out to minister to the residents of Woodhaven. Making the trip with him was his wife, Sis. Carol, along with Sis. Diana Jacobs and Sis. Janet Kober. We’re always appreciative of your time and efforts! Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Bro. Mark Bahr (Sis. Bev) and Bro. Phil Bahr (Sis. Dawn) at the passing of their uncle, retired elder Bro. Lester Hartter of Bern. “For the poor shall never cease out of the land: therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy, in thy land.” Deuteronomy 15:11 As we start the season of giving and thanks, the church held its annual clothing drive for God’s Storehouse. Thanks so much to all who donated clothes and came out to sort, then deliver the items. We congratulate Bro. Hartzell and Sis. Mary Kaisner on the birth of their twin granddaughters, Allison Mary and Madeline Ann. Extra prayers are certainly appreciated as the girls came into the world earlier than expected on September 11. They are currently in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit). May the Lord give parents Curtis and Meredith Kaisner the strength to make it through this difficult time. Congratulations to Bro. Mitch Ault and Sis. April Schar on their recent wedding in Rittman, OH. Their parents are Bro. Dave and Sis. Kathy Ault of Smithville, OH and Bro. Nathan and Sis. Linda Schar of Rittman, OH. We’re so happy that they will be making their home with us and we welcome Sis. April into our local church family. Minneapolis, Minnesota Brenda Messner, Betty Lindwall Our beautiful fall is upon us and we are so thankful for God’s artistry. Our Sunday School outing today is going to Sever’s Corn Maze and Fall Festival and experiencing all of the beauty and excitement of fall. We had a number of visitors during the Minnesota State Fair, the Great Minnesota Get-together! We are always thankful for visitors to our small church. The ladies of our church gathered at a local restaurant to celebrate the return of Laura (Bro. David and Sis. Diane Stewart) and her husband, Paul Kolars to the Twin Cities. We are so thankful to have them back in our area. We welcome our returning college students: our convert, McKenzie Elders, Sis. Leah Knobloh, Lexi Smithberg, Abby Neisen, and Kyle Wewetzer. Sis. Claire Dill and convert, Adrian Rocke are our local college students. May each of these dear young people experience God’s love and peace through our welcome to them and through His Loving Care of them. Minnesota, Morris Amy Ekren, Heidi Pfaffmann Bro. Lafe & Sis. Kristen Grimm, along with big sisters Bria and Brynn, welcomed home baby boy Cohen Dale. Grandparents are Bro. Rod and Sis. Arlene Grimm (Sabetha, KS) and Merle and Jean Spohr. We are very thankful for the arrival of this blessing. Bro. Jim Reuter (Sis. Carolyn) was hospitalized this month. May God provide healing and comfort to all of those with afflictions and also to those who have recently lost loved ones. “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Rom. 8:28 Minnesota, Morris North Lois Schmidgall, Wanda Gramm Greetings from Morris North! What a beautiful time of the year to see the seasons change into fall. Let’s encourage each other to take time in this busy season to stop and spend some time taking in the wonders of God’s Creation. “In the harvest field there is work to do, for the grain is ripe and the reapers few; And the Master’s voice bids the workers true heed the call that He gives today. Crowd the garner well with its October 2015 SILVER LINING 41 sheaves all bright, let the song be glad, and the heart be light; Fill the precious hours, ere the shades of night take the place of the golden day. In the gleaner’s path may be rich reward, tho’ the time seems long, and the labor hard; For the Master’s joy, with His chosen shared, Drives the gloom from the darkest day. Lo! The harvest home in the realms above shall be gained by each who has toiled and strove, When the Master’s voice, in its tones of love, calls away to eternal day. Labor on! Labor on! Keep the bright reward in view; For the Master has said, He will strength renew; Labor on till the close of day!” Gospel Hymns #328 Our church family has been in our church building for one year. We enjoyed a supper together and also words of inspiration. We are so thankful for our little fellowship! And our church family! God has so richly blessed us, and we just say “Thank You Lord!” September 13 was the start day for our Sunday School. We pray for our teachers and for the students. Bro. Doug and Sis. Dawn Moser opened their “barn” for the annual Sunday School kick-off. Students and the entire church enjoyed an afternoon and evening together. We are thankful that surgery went well for Amy Schmidgall and Seth (Bro. Carter and Sis. Amanda) Feuchtenberger. Our prayers are with them that they will feel God’s healing power. 42 SILVER LINING October 2015 Thank you to Bro. Kevin (Sis. Annie) Wulf from the Morris Country church who were with us. May God bless you for giving of yourself to further The Word. Several from our church spent an evening helping with Feed My Starving Children Food drive. We just don’t realize how fortunate we are, and pray for those who do not have even the very essentials. Our church has started the Bible study on James. May God’s Spirit be felt and may we grow spiritually through these studies. LABOR ON!! Minnesota, Winthrop Lindsay Schmidt, Becky Braulick “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 1:1 We were blessed to have two visiting ministers this month, Bro. Phil Schultz (Sis. Kelli, Burlington, IA) and Bro. Darin Massner (Sis. Twila, West Bend, IA). We thank them for their willingness to serve and bring forth God’s Word. We are also thankful for all of our visitors this past month. If you are traveling through our area, please stop and worship with us. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27 We rejoice with McKenzie Elder (Bro. John & Sis. Joleen) and Eldwin Schmidt (Lois) as they have professed to have peace with God and man. We look forward to their testimony and baptism. “We’ ll learn and we’ ll labor in cheerful accord, And do what we can in the strength of the Lord. O blessed is he, when the summer is gone, Who harvests the fruit from good seed he has sown!” Zion’s Harp #165 vs. 4 The Sunday school year has resumed and the students and teachers enjoyed a bike trip on September 12. The students also celebrated the beginning of Sunday school after church with the annual picnic in the park. May God abide with each one of them throughout this coming school year. “All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.” Titus 3:15 We want to welcome Bro. Josh Eberhardt (Tyler, MO) and Landon Fehr (Bro. Anthony & Sis. Lila, Fairbury, IL) into our congregation. Josh has been transferred to our area for work. Landon will be going to school here. We hope they will feel our love and support and feel at home here. “Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.” Proverbs 17:6 We want to congratulate two sets of grandparents on the births of two granddaughters. Bro. Ed and Sis. Ginny Stoll are pleased to welcome Ashlyn Tracey into this world. Parents Trey and Stephanie Stoll and big brother Edward IV were pleased to bring her home. Bro. Dean and Sis. Wanda Messner were blessed to add granddaughter, Leah Rose, to the family. Parents Brett and Becky Messner and big brother Nathan will welcome Leah home. We pray God’s grace and blessings on these two little girls and their families. “Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.” Psalm 27:14 Our prayers and sympathies go out to Darlene (Bro. Darrel) Schmidt and her family with the passing of her sister, June Schoenrock of Sandstone, MN. May God grant peace and comfort. Our prayers of healing and strength go out to Anita (Kyle) Messner (daughter-in-law of Bro. Kenneth and Margaret Messner) as she continues to heal from her accident and Sis. Dorothy Jacobson as she recovers from total knee replacement surgery. We also pray for those who continue to have health issues and that God will continue to be near each of them in their physical battles. Missouri, Kansas City Julie Webel Once again, Labor Day weekend signaled the start of a new Sunday school term. May we keep our teachers and students in prayer as God’s Word is planted in tender hearts. We are thankful to Bro. Larry Bahr (Sis. Julie) from Ft. Scott for ministering this past month. We always appreciate visiting ministers in our small congregation. May God bless Bro. Larry for his willingness to serve. We would like to express our sympathy to Bro. Don Braker (Sis. Eileen) whose uncle, Bro. Leonard Braker, passed away. Please keep Sis. Marty Rokey in your prayers as she is not able to assemble with us regularly at this time. Also, may we continue to pray for Andrew Kellenberger (Bro. Brent & Sis. Beth) who has recently had another tracheal scope procedure and is continuing to grow and progress. For those of us who have many loved ones (either near or far away), know that we are always thinking of you and extend an open invitation to visit us in Kansas City anytime! Missouri, Lamar Venetta Banwart Many thanks to our visiting minister this month for feeding us from God’s Word and being willing to be used in God vineyard and fellowshipping with us here in Lamar. They were: Bro. Sam Schlatter (Sis. Linda, Junction, OH), Bro. Brad Metz (Sis. Karen, Bloomington-Normal, IL), Bro. Jim Koehl (Sis. Hildy, Morris, MN), Bro. Tom Troxel (Sis. LuAnn, LaCrosse, IN), Bro. Mark Schmidgall (Sis. Sally, OakvilleMediapolis, IA). Our hospital patient this month was Sis. Bonnie Braker. May God continue to grant her healing and strength. Our deepest sympathy goes to Sis. Bonnie Braker and family: Sis. Carol Marti, Linda (Rick) Barton, Tim (Terry), Terry (Rhonda) in the loss of their husband/father, Bro. Leonard Braker. May each feel God’s nearness in this difficult time. He will be missed in our small congregation. We appreciated Retired Elder Bro. Joe Braker (Morton, IL), Elder Bros. Doug Schock (Bloomfield, IA), Brad Strahm (Bern, KS), and Bro. Jeff Fisher (Ft. Scott) for their labors of love in the funeral service. Missouri, St. Louis Kary Mangers Our church has been praying for direction for adding to our pulpit ministry. This month we were able to see the answer of this prayer request come to fruition. Bro. Nathan and Sis. Michelle (Beery) Rassi have felt the Lord’s direction in this ministry. Their children are Ashton (5), Morgan (3), and Quinton (1). Elder Bro. Kent Heimer (Taylor), Bro. Greg Rassi (Chicago), and Bro. Loren Schrenk took part in a special ordination service covering: the duties of a minister, the duties of the audience, and a special encouragement to Bro. Nathan and Sis. Michelle. Their parents, Bro. Greg and Sis. Carla Rassi (Chicago) and Bro. Walt and Sis. Lynda Beery (Rittman), were able to join us, as well as some family and friends to show their support including Bro. Matthew and Sis. Bridget Rassi (Chicago) and Bro. October 2015 SILVER LINING 43 Frank and Sis. Kathy Sauder (Roanoke). Our prayers continue to be with them as they serve the Lord is this way. Our prayers continue to also be with Bro. Morris Braker as he continues to recover with family in the Lamar area from his illness that occurred this summer. We were again blessed by the support of our visiting ministers. Bro. Ryan and Sis. Joy Hoerr (Princeville) brought a charter bus of support with them. Not only did this group support us with abundant fellowship and lovely singing, but also with the tasks of serving a large group by providing help with food, pulpit ministry and Sunday School. They were willing to help out in any way to make the weekend doable and enjoyable for all. We also appreciated the love and support from Bro. Dave and Sis. Lori Marquart (Taylor), Bro. David and Sis. Jackie Eisenmann (Champaign), and Bro. John and Sis. Nelda Rowell (Burlingtonretired). May each be blessed for their part in furthering the gospel of Christ. Missouri, Taylor Marcia Sutter On 8/23/15, Bro. Tom (Sis. Connie) Schambach from Elgin, IL was here and preached the morning service. The Sunday school will be starting back up after vacation. We thank the teachers that are going out and truly appreciate all the hard work in showing our children the way to Jesus and 44 SILVER LINING October 2015 His salvation. Many of the Bible class and Junior Bible class have started on the road of repentance. The new teachers include: Bro. Jimmy (Sis. Rachael) Sutter, Bro. Josh (Sis. Colby) Steffen, Bro. Rick and Sis. Kim Steidinger, Sis. Charlotte (Bro. Brent) Hoerr, Sis. Jolene (Bro. Tom) Young, and Sis. Katie (Bro. Adam) Reinbeck. Our prayers will be for God’s grace and wisdom to be given in rich measure to these new teachers. On 8/29/15, the following gave their testimonies and were baptized on 8/30/15: Bro. Clayton Steidinger, son of Bro. Rick and Sis. Kim Steidinger; Bro. Seth Pflum, son of Bro. Keith and Sis. Tami Pflum; and Sis. Brittany and Bro. Kyle Grimm, daughter and son of Bro. Don and Sis. Tricia Grimm. We wish them much grace and God’s richest blessings in their life in serving God. Elder Bro. Steve (Sis. Myra) Ringger from Bluffton North came to assist with the testimonies and had the Sunday morning service. Bro. Craig (Sis. Jackie) Stickling from Peoria had the afternoon service. The Taylor church welcomes Sis. Amy Rocke from Bern, KS while she is attending school in Quincy, IL. Sis. Ruth Verkler has completed her summer at HIS Ranch and will be returning home to Bluffton, IN. We will miss her and ask for God’s blessing for all her help at the ranch. We are thrilled that Rita (Brad) Schaefer is seeking the Lord in repentance and will be praying that God will richly bless her. We had two in the hospital this month: Merry Ann Maynor (one of our converts) and Bro. Arnold Gerst. We are praying that the Great Physician will provide healing and comfort. On 9/2/15, Bro. Loren Schrenk came to do our monthly Bible study on the “Attributes of King David”. Thanks to all visiting ministers for preaching the Word and encouragement to stay the course. On 9/22/15, the young folks hosted the Invite-a-Guest weekend dinner as a fundraiser for the upcoming Taylor Invite. Ohio, Akron Carla Miller We are grateful for the engagement of Sis. Katie Palitto (Bro. Bryon and Sis. Lisa) and Bro. Justin Miller (Bro. Roger and Sis. Dorina, Mansfield, OH). Bro. Matthew, Sis. Rebecca, and Megan Stoller welcomed Emily Rose on September 9. Grandparents are Bro. Ken and Sis. Lori Stoller (Rittman, OH) and Steve and Arliss Pamer. We are thankful for God’s healing and provision for those who have been hospitalized recently: Sis. Mary Ann Weigele (Bro. Al) and Abel Gherian (Bro. Micah and Sis. Marcy). Our sympathy and prayers are extended to Bro. Sandor Hegedus (Sis. Gyongyi) in the passing of his mother, Sis. Ilona Hegedus (Nagyer, Hungary). We welcome Bro. Clark Schlatter (Bro. Ray and Sis. Corrine, Junction, OH) to our congregation while he is in our area to continue his education. Ohio, Junction Elizabeth Manz Greetings! We have been blessed this month with two precious babies! Daniel Stephen was welcomed into the family of Bro. Travis and Sis. Lilly Schlatter on August 23. His big brother is Joshua. Daniel’s grandparents are Bro. Denny and Sis. Laurie Schlatter and Bro. Russ and Sis. Vera Manz. Bro. Derek and Sis. Hannah Schlatter are thankful for the safe arrival of their first child, Elena Carol, born on September 1. Elena’s grandparents are Bro. Denny and Sis. Laurie Schlatter and Bro. Jim and Sis. Sarah Steiner (Rittman, OH). We pray that God will bless both of these families with wisdom and patience as they raise their children to know and love God. We are saddened to hear of the passing of Shirley Miller’s (Bro. Randy) mother, Vivian Thomas. We pray that God will be near her and her family and give them comfort during this time. This month we were thankful to have visiting ministers to share the Word. They included Bros. Don Steidl (Sis. Nan, Akron, OH), Tim Ramsier (Sis. Jonell, Rittman, OH) and John Grimm (Sis. Julie, Columbus, OH). We pray that God will bless them for their ministry. Ohio, Latty Carmen Stoller, Mindy Stoller Greetings to each one! We have had lovely autumn weather the past couple of days here. It is so refreshing! We certainly have so much to be thankful for! We have been prayerful for several loved ones who have met with accident or illness in the past month. They include Maria Stoller (Bro. Ben and Sis. Kendra), Brant Moser, and Emery LaBounty (both grandchildren of Bro. John and Sis. Marcia Laukhuf). We pray each one can have a full and complete recovery! Our choir recently enjoyed a trip to Cissna Park, IL. Thank you all for your hospitality and warm welcome. We are so thankful for the fellowship we can find among others in Christ! Our heartfelt thanks go to Bro. Warren Schlatter (Sis. Cindy, Junction, OH) and Bro. Dan Stoller (Sis. Deb, Remington, IN) for ministering to us in the recent month. May God be your rich rewarder! We continue to lift up the families of Bro. Bob Laukhuf and Bro. Walt Steffen (Milford, IN), who is the father of Sis. Shirley Stoller. Bro. Bob died September 9. Bro. Walt passed away September 7. May these families feel our love and prayers during this time of loss. Rev. 14:13 “And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.” Ohio, Mansfield Elizabeth Walter We thank God for His provision in the lives of Bro. Justin Miller (Bro. Roger & Sis. Dorina) and Sis. Katie Palitto (Bro. Bryon & Sis. Lisa, Akron, OH) who were recently engaged. May they feel the bond of love grow as they begin a new life together. Our hearts go out to our loved ones who have suffered from illness, accident, or surgery. We pray for Sis. Clara Zimmer, Sis. Cheryl Dotterer, and Bro. Mike Garunovic. A sincere thank you to Bro. Ron Palitto (Sis. Lynell, Akron, OH) for visiting and preaching the Word to us. May the Lord’s Spirit continue to inspire and enlighten the hearts of each one. Ohio, Rittman Julie Steiner, Maria Beery Isabel Steiner (Bro. Brent & Sis. Andrea), Emily Katanic (Bro. Mike & Sis. Heather), Braelyn Steiner (Bro. Eric & Sis. Tricia), Kevin Dotterer (Bro. Gary & Sis. Sandy), and Jon Maibach (Bro. Alpha & Sis. Denise) have chosen the higher road, of repentance. “But I prize the friendship highest, of the one whose heart is true.” (Hymns of Zion # 91) And yet, there is room. God has pursued His lambs, and now they have come home. Bro. Terry & Sis. Dorothy Sample, and Sis. Martha Jenkins (Bro. Tom & Sis. Deb) were baptized this past month. Though years pass by, God knows EVERY one of His lambs, and desires them. October 2015 SILVER LINING 45 Bro. Mitch Ault and Sis. April Schar experienced the joy of a threefold cord. Parents of this new couple are Bro. Dave & Sis. Kathy Ault, and Bro. Nathan & Sis. Linda Schar. Grandchildren joined the extended families of three couples this past month. Bro. Walt & Sis. Lynda Beery welcomed Evan Benjamin Maibach, to parents Bro. Garth & Sis. Hannah Maibach (Sardis). Earlier, Bro. Jim & Sis. Sara Steiner welcomed Elena Carol Schlatter, born to parents Bro. Derek & Sis. Hannah Schlatter (Junction). Also, Bro. Ken & Sis. Lori Stoller were blessed with Emily Rose Stoller, given to parents Bro. Matthew & Sis. Rebecca Stoller (Akron). Bro. Dan Baltic (Sis. Betty), Bro. Mike Gasser (Sis. Kristin), Sis. Doris Gasser, and Ron Woyat (Jeannette) experienced the pain, and hopefully healing that comes from surgery, this past month. Those who have undergone surgery recently, are thankful for today’s technology, but feel just as much, the need for the Touch of the Master. Also hospitalized were Sis. Gail Steiner (Bro. Matt) and little Madison Gasser (Bro. Brant & Sis. Tiffany). We reminisce with Bro. Henry Beer, as he wrote, “Friends of higher rank and station, friends that live from us apart, find a place of highest merit, in our fellowship with God.” (Hymns of Zion #91) On Labor Day Weekend, we were blessed with Invite-AFamily guests. Then, a week 46 SILVER LINING October 2015 later, baptisms brought guests as well. May each guest receive the strength of God, to carry on HIS work, in their vineyards. Our guest ministers included Elder Bro. John Schmidgall (Oakville), Elder Bro. Dave Graf (Akron), Elder Bro. Vic Bauman (Smithville); and ministers Bro. Wes Moser (Lester), Bro. Ryan Schock (Bloomfield), Bro. Matt Knapp (Peachtree City), Bro. Dana Indermuhle (Sardis), Bro. Todd Stoller (Latty), and Bro. George Gal (Akron). Ohio, Sardis Faith Beard, Joy Indermuhle Recently, as I passed through one of our local communities, I saw on a church sign: Buried Under Satan’s Yoke (BUSY). It struck me how these words speak very well of the current American lifestyle. It seems no one is exempt from daily life filled to the brim with activity. Speaking for myself, sometimes I groan inwardly when another event or activity is planned. How do I make time to attend? What priority do I place on everyday life events and what priority do I place on church gatherings? Which should take precedence and am I placing importance on the right things in life? It seems that when we allow daily life to overtake our time, we are in danger of being buried under Satan’s yoke. Wouldn’t it be better to carry the joyful yoke of serving Jesus. Hence, serving our fellow man and enjoying the fellowship of our brethren and friends? Seeking to carry Christ’s yoke to the Haitian people, our Bro. Eric and Sis. Jami Hartzler have willingly served at Hospital Lumiere for the past three years. It is with great thankfulness that we now welcome them home to stay! When Eric and Jami left, they took with them their four oldest children: Leah, Gracie, Conrad and Quincy. Returning home, they also bring with them Gideon, who was born in Haiti. We welcome these dear children back to our Sunday school and pray they can renew their friendships here and that Gideon will make new friends as he adjusts to his new home. We are thankful to have the Hartzler’s home and pray for them as they adjust to living in the States again. We are thankful that two of our converts have laid aside the burden of Satan’s yoke, repented of their sins and now are at peace with God and man. Baylee Figel (Bro. Andy and Sis. Cyndi) and Thad Indermuhle (Bro. Dana and Sis. Joy) are looking forward to giving their testimonies and being baptized the weekend of November 7-8. On a recent Wednesday evening, our congregation rejoiced as one of our young men, feeling the need to repent and put away Satan’s yoke as well, came to church with a humble and willing heart to serve Jesus. We are thankful that Jared Ramsier (Bro. Mark and Sis. Alice) has heeded the call. We pray for him in the days and months ahead as he allows Christ to work in his heart. As school has begun again, so too is the time in Sardis that some of our children move up to a new Sunday school class. They look forward to this. We thank both the outgoing and incoming teachers that labor on behalf of our children, teaching them the true Word of Christ. Preparing a Sunday school lesson is a worthwhile activity as these sisters and brothers take time to nurture our children, planting seeds that we pray will someday enable them to put off the yoke of Satan and put on the light yoke of Christ. Through the month of September, we have been listening to the conference recordings. We are thankful for the wise instruction and leadership from our elder brothers. May God continue to grant grace and strength for each of them as they take up the daily mantle of leadership that they have been called to and to continue to strive on our behalf, to keep the burden of Satan’s yoke at bay. “His yoke is easy, His burden is light, I’ve found it so, I’ve found it so. He leadeth me by day and by night, Where living waters flow.” His Yoke is Easy, Hymns of Zion #130 (chorus) Ohio, Smithville Kara Stoller, Millie Stoller Congratulations to Bro. Doyle and Sis. Naomi Stoller on the birth of Lilly Joy. Their precious daughter arrived August 20 and joins a brother, Josiah. Grateful grandparents are Bro. Scott and Sis. Charlene Stoller and Mike and Barb Ursu of Kitchener, Ontario. On August 23 we witnessed the baptism of Sis. Heather Beery (Bro. Dwaine and Sis. Shelly). We are thankful she has chosen the path of salvation and justification through Jesus Christ our Lord. “But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.” Prov. 4:18 Our thoughts have been toward those recently hospitalized: Sis. Cheryl Dotterer, Bro. Dave Maletich (Sis. Connie), Sis. Florence Hartzler, Sis. Whitney Indermuhle (Bro. Jason). We were thankful to have several visitors to our pulpit. They included Elder Bro. Dave Graf (Sis. Barb, Akron OH), Elder Bro. Art Ingold (Sis. Bonnie, Rittman OH), Bro. Bob Riggenbach (Sis. Lorie, Rittman OH), and Bro. John Hartman (Sis. Rosemary, Fairbury IL). May our hearts retain the words of “good doctrine” (Proverbs 4:2) so that we may each experience true life according to our loving Father’s design. Ohio, Toledo Deanna Manz, Jenny Manz We extend our congratulations to Ellie Rywalski (Sis. Teresa) and Demetrius Washington as they were recently united in marriage. May God bless their union with peace and love. We were privileged to have several visiting ministers this month. Our heartfelt thanks to Bro. Randy Gasser (Sis. Sue, Detroit, MI), Bro. Todd Graf (Sis. Lydia, Akron, OH) and Elder Bro. Bill Schlatter (Sis. Emily, Junction, OH) for being willing to preach the gospel of salvation! The beginning of a new school year gives us reason to be thankful for the return of college students who had gone home for the summer, and the excitement of meeting those joining us for the first time! Our annual College Picnic was a blessing as we were able to spend the afternoon with many of our students and their families. May the Lord give much grace to these students as they strive to be a beacon of light to those around them. Ontario, Kitchener Johanna Fortenbacher Elder Bro. Mark Bahr and his wife, Sis. Bev, came to our church and shared wonderful news. Shannon Metzger and his sister, RoseLynn, (children of Bro. and Sis. Murray & Esther Metzger) have a testimony of faith, r epentance, conversion, the nearness of God’s grace, and the joy of God’s peace and they desire baptism in the future. “Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus:” Romans 5:1. We are so thankful for the ministers and their wives who came to fellowship and minister to us: Bro. Mark & Sis. Cheryl Zimmerman, Eureka ; Bro. Greg & Sis. Mary Beth Lehman, Wolcott; Bro. Ken & Sis. Linda Indermuhle, Sardis; Bro. Ryan & Sis. Joy Hoerr, October 2015 SILVER LINING 47 Princeville and Bro. Dan & Sis. Anne Moser from Elgin. God is blessing our church family. Oregon, Portland Louisa Gallup On September 2, Jeff Jensen, the father of Bro. Rick (Sis. Miriam) Hoach, passed away. He was in hospice care for serious health problems at his home in Sheridan. Mr. Jensen is survived by his wife, Joyce, and three sons: Ron (Rachael) Hoach of Portland, OR, Kevin (Mely) Jensen of Hillsboro, OR and Bro. Rick (Sis. Miriam) Hoach of Sheridan, OR; and nine grandchildren. We wish the family the Lord’s blessings of comfort and strength as they adjust to life without their loved one. Bro. Walt Steffen (Sis. Dorothy, dec.), Milford, IN, whom many will remember from regular visits to Oregon, passed away on September 4. Bro. Walt was Bro. Garth Steffen’s first cousin. They had a close bond, spending a lot of time together over the years. Our prayers of support go out the Steffen families. We thank the following ministering brethren from Silverton, OR for bringing us the Word this past month: Bros. Harvey (Sis. Jennifer) Kuenzi, Jim (Sis. Tresa) Zollinger, Ron (Sis. Liz) Jones and Don (Sis. Linda) Sinn. As always, our profound gratitude for your support and help from the Silverton Song Leaders. Note of thanks: Bro. Rick, Sis. Miriam, Joyce and family would like to thank 48 SILVER LINING October 2015 everyone for their prayers and support at Dad’s passing. We also want to thank everyone who attended the Memorial Service and helped with the meal, sent flowers and cards. Oregon, Silverton Kelsey Walder, Ann Kuenzi Elder Bro. Herb Knochel (Sis. Laurie) from Phoenix, AZ was here to assist Elder Bro. John in the testimonies and baptisms of Bro. Mathis Kuenzi (Bro. Troy and Sis. Sherri) and Bro. Nathanael Jones (Bro. Ron and Sis. Liz) the weekend of August 22 and 23. We are thankful to welcome these two new brothers into our church family. Visiting ministers this past month have been Bro. Adam Luginbuhl (Sis. Jami) from Philadelphia, PA and Bro. Mike Leman (Sis. Lisa) Portland, OR. We so enjoy and appreciate visitors coming to Oregon and want to thank the ministers that are willing to share the Word. Violet Kuenzi has expressed her faith in Jesus and His shed blood, and her need for a Savior. We are prayerful for God’s grace, that her faith and love may grow each day. Israel Herman Lincoln Stadeli was born August 26 to Bro. Greg and Sis. Susan Stadeli. Big brother Abel will enjoy having a playmate. Grandparents are Ron and Arlene Stadeli and Herman and Joan Glueck. Rejoicing over a new little son is Bro. Jeremy and Sis. Kristy Kuenzi and their family, Micah, Drew, Kate, Russ, Angela and Maria. Curt Lincoln was born September 17. His grandparents are Jim and Joan Dietrich and Bro. Terry and Sis. Ann Kuenzi. We wish Jared Kuenzi (Bro. Jason and Sis. Jo) and Makayla Niehaus (Dave and Erica Niehaus, and Tasha Cohen) many blessings as they start married life together. Their wedding was August 29. September 12 was the beautiful wedding day for Austin and Hannah Kraft. Rejoicing with them are their parents, Bro. Richard and Sis. Marianne Kraft, and Kenneth and Rebecca Tschiegg. We enjoyed a Gateway Wood’s presentation on Sunday, August 30. Bro. Ed and Sis. Deb Graf, as well as Bro. Todd and Sis. Kara Strahm, were here for the presentation. We enjoyed the personal stories of life as house parents, as well as learning about the administration of the organization. We are so thankful to see Sis. Becky Von Flue back at church. Her husband, Bro. Dan, recently had surgery on his shoulder, due to an injury. We are prayerful for both of them as they continue to heal. Our sympathy is with Sis. Laura Metz (Bro. Joel) and her family in the loss of her grandfather Bro. Elmer Metzger (Sis. Mariann) from Lester, IA. Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Laura Isch Our church has experienced times of blessing and times of difficulty this month. We thank the Lord for being faithful through all the times of our lives. We rejoice with Kierstyn Lanz (Bro. John and Sis. Kay) as she has come to God in humble repentance. May God provide His grace and show Himself to her. We can rejoice when we witness God’s continuing work in the souls of men and women! Our church enjoyed our annual Sunday School picnic this month. Thanks to the Sunday School teachers for their efforts and to the parents for encouraging their children to participate in Sunday School. Several in our church have recently been hospitalized. We are thankful for God’s protecting hand on Tanner Metzger (Bro. Shawn and Sis. Sandy) as he was hospitalized after a serious automobile accident. Sis. Bonnie Isch (Bluffton, IN, Bro. Jerry and Sis. Linda) had surgery this month. Bro. Daryl Luginbuhl (Sis. Norma) also has been hospitalized with surgery recently. May God provide healing and recovery to each loved one. Tennessee, Nashville Buck & Taunia Henry What a beautiful promise we were reminded of as Bro. Randy Gasser expounded upon the end of the Old Testament in Malachi, chapter 4. «Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: and he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers...» We then turned a few hundred years later to the beginning New Testament to see the fulfillment of that promise in Luke, chapter 1, where the angel, Gabriel, announces the prophet who would prepare the way of the Lord.”And he shall go forth in the spirit and power of Elias to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children...” God’s promises never fail! The way of the Lord has been prepared and He has come! May we all be ready to meet Him when He comes again! We are so thankful for the visiting ministers that served us: Bro. Ted Hirstein (Sis. Joyce, Morton), Bro. Timothy Gerber (Sis. Wendy, Mansfield), Bro. Randy Gasser (Sis. Sue, Detroit), Bro. Lenard Meyer (Sis. Charlotte, Chicago), Bro. Byron Stoller (Sis. Carol, Gridley). We have also enjoyed the fellowship of visitors from Athens, Tremont, Rittman, & Junction. Our young group was blessed to be invited to Fairbury/Forrest on Labor Day Weekend where many were able to attend. If you are traveling to or through the Nashville area, please plan to worship with us. Often we gather on Saturday evenings for fellowship. All are heartily welcome. Please contact us to confirm the schedule. Also, we typically meet on Wednesday evenings at 7:15 p.m. for call-in services and would welcome any midweek visitors. Contacts: Bro. Buck Henry 615-920-9584 buck@ forhisglorypublishing.com or Bro. Don Sauder 615-351-7734 don. sauder@juno.com. The Nashville Guesthouse is available for free accommodations to all those traveling through; please contact Bro. Buck for reservations. Texas, Austin Candy Meiss Sending our Love and Greetings from Austin! “I need Thee every hour, most gracious Lord, no tender voice like Thine can peace afford. I need Thee every hour, in joy or pain: come quickly and abide or life is vain. I need Thee every hour most Holy One; Oh! Make me Thine indeed, Thou blessed Son!” Every moment we can feel His presence if we but ask, acknowledging our need and thankfulness. We have been refreshed in recent weeks by God’s Word shared by visiting ministers: Bro. Scott Wegman (Taylor), Bro. Jerry Bauman (Rittman), and Elder Bro. Gerry Hertzel (Sabetha). Our church continues to be blessed with many children from the nearby community. They love hearing the Bible stories, learning about Jesus, memorizing the fruit of the Spirit, and lifting their hearts to the Lord in song. We continually pray for godly order, guidance, and wisdom as we teach these precious souls about Jesus and His saving grace. We are asking for all to pray and consider a move to Austin to help in this special endeavor to mentor/teach the many October 2015 SILVER LINING 49 children that God has brought into our fellowship. “I need Thee, O I need Thee; Every hour I need Thee; O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee.” Let us remember to daily thank Him for His presence in our lives. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear… Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:1,2 and 10 We are so thankful for our visitors and encourage everyone passing through to stop and worship with us!! Please refer to our minister’s directory for directions and contacts. Texas, McAllen we can prepare for meals and fellowship. If interested in housing on South Padre Island while visiting the McAllen area, please contact us for further details. Occasionally there is a schedule change, so if you plan to be with us on Sunday, please verify the date by calling the Plattner’s at 956-607-8329 or you may access www.acmission.org and view the updated minister rotation schedule. Sunday services are held at 10:30 and 12:30 at the Holiday Inn Express, 1921 South 10th St. Take the 10th Street Exit off I-83 and go 1½ blocks south. Please see the ministers’ directory for local contact information. Kristi Plattner Vermont, Clarendon We appreciate the willingness of Bro. Leland Plattner (Sis. Mary, Zapata, TX) and Bro. Kevin Banwart (Sis. Sandy, West Bend, IA) to share the Word this month. The following churches are scheduled for services: Roanoke, IL (10/25) and Bluffton, IN (11/8). We welcome anyone coming to South Texas and ask that you inform us of your plans so that Nathan and Miriam Reutter 50 SILVER LINING October 2015 The colors of the leaves are changing and are taking on a gorgeous appearance that reminds us of the changing seasons of life. No matter what age or stage of life, we can shine brilliantly for our Maker, but only, like the leaves, by reflecting light of the Son (sun). The Son shined radiantly this month, and we are grateful for the opportunity to reflect it. For example, we had a rather spirituallywarming time of fellowship with our annual Sunday school picnic on Labor Day. The adults enjoyed sweet fellowship. The children enjoyed sweet friendship. We, all together, enjoyed singing a few hymns and participated in a Bible discussion of the life of Daniel. We left the day with a full soul and a full stomach. Brother Warren (Sis. Bonnie) Zahner and Bro. Tom (Sis. LaNae) Bahler also filled us spiritually on the respective Sundays they came to visit us this month. Both of these couples graciously spent time with us and ministered to us. Bro. Warren led the Bible discussion on the life of Daniel. They both are from Rockville, CT. Their many years of service to us we can never repay, yet they never seem to tire of the effort it takes to serve us. We trust God to bless these labors in eternity. As the fall leaf-peeper season approaches, we heartily invite all to come see the wonders of God’s creation upon the mountains of New England. The News & Notices section of The Silver Lining provides a way for qualifying non-profit entities to make the brotherhood aware of church-related events, opportunities, needs, and services that would be of special interest to Apostolic Christian Church of America members and regular attendees. Email us at editor@acsilverlining.org for a copy of our advertising policy, which specifies who may advertise, sizes, file formats and deadlines. News & Notices Part II Light from the Word Now available by downloadable PDF from the Apostolic Christian Publication website: www.acpublications.org After entering the website, click on the item located at the left hand frame entitled, “Light from the Word Reprints”. The entire set of editorials are available in a complete download (June 1987 to current). October 2015 SILVER LINING 51 House Parenting Opportunity at CVE in Mexico CVE endeavors to provide Life and Hope to emotionally wounded Mexican children within the context of a Christ-centered family campus environment. The ministry presently is seeking married couples or singles who are willing to answer the call and share their God-given spiritual gifts in the harvest as houseparents. Houseparents have the opportunity to live with the children, share the gospel through daily nurturing, and endeavor to help break cycles of abuse or neglect from which many have come. As one houseparent was quoted “To see the miracle that the Lord has done and is doing in the lives of hurting children has been one of the greatest blessings of our lives. It’s the fulfillment of our purpose here on earth, to be the hands and feet of Jesus to those that desperately need Him.” The CVE campus is located on the edge of Magdalena, MX and offers a secured 50-acre ranch inclusive of seven homes, a school, a church, and an active agricultural operation. Historically, many of the houseparents have been younger, but more experienced couples are also encouraged to seek direction to join the CVE ministry. Experienced parents often bring stability and a seasoned perspective. While knowing the Spanish language would be very valuable, it is not essential. The most important is having a desire to learn, both the language and the culture of the people we serve. Language training is provided. Please pray for CVE, their ministry to the children, and the community of Magdalena. Pray that God will raise up brothers and sisters to serve. If you have questions or interest please contact: Bill Schick at: cvemexico@gmail.com or Kirk Plattner at: kirk@acmission.org Bible Distribution: Sharing His Word in Love Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. Psalm 96:3 Together we can provide Bibles for seeking people. This may be someone you attend school with, someone you work with, or someone God has shown you at a gas station. Bibles and approved Bible story Books are available. Carrying a New Testament to distribute can help you remember what our real task is. To order, contact: Apostolic Christian Church Bible Distribution 651 E. Peoria Street, Goodfield, IL 61742 Phone: 309-965-2141 bibledistribution@acpublications.org 52 SILVER LINING October 2015 Communications Coordinator Needed - Gateway Woods Gateway Woods is seeking a brother or sister desiring to serve as the Communications Coordinator. This position is open to full-time applicants and offers the opportunity to use one’s creativity, organization and communications skills to further the ministry. If you are organized and able to meet deadlines, have strong communication skills, and are a motivated self-starter, please contact one of the brothers listed below for more information and a job description. Development Coordinator Needed - Gateway Woods Gateway Woods is seeking a brother or sister to tell supporters the story of helping broken children and reuniting families. The Development Coordinator position is open to full-time or part-time applicants. This position offers flexibility as applicants may work from Leo, IN or remotely from their Midwest home. If you have a passion for helping hurting children and families, strong communication and relationship building skills that can be used to develop financial partners and advocates, please contact one of the brothers listed below for more information and a job description. Chad Kaeb Development Director PO Box 151, Leo, IN 46765 888.443.4283 chad.kaeb@gatewaywoods.org Lynn Stieglitz Counseling Elder 15417 Doty Rd., New Haven, IN 46774 Cell: 260.466.6712 lynnstieg@gmail.com Alternate Houseparent Needed - Gateway Woods Houseparenting at Gateway Woods offers an opportunity for a couple, directed of the Lord, to come to work in a full-time on going ministry at Gateway Woods. Due to a change in staff, we have a need for an Alternate Houseparent couple. This position offers competitive wages and generous benefits and a close relationship with brothers and sisters whose hearts and lives are dedicated to a common mission with an eternal reward. If you feel the call to explore this possibility, please call one of the brothers listed below. Clint Plattner Residential Program Manager PO Box 125, Leo, IN 46765 888.443.4283 clint.plattner@gatewaywoods.org Lynn Stieglitz Counseling Elder 15417 Doty Rd., New Haven, IN 46774 Cell: 260.466.6712 lynnstieg@gmail.com Interested in receiving a printed sermon? To order, contact: Printed Sermons P.O. Box 154, Forrest, IL 61741 (815) 848-5113 • printedsermons@gmail.com September 2015 SILVER LINING 53 Sunday School Teacher Needed in Austin, Texas The Austin Apostolic Christian Church has identified a need for someone to assist in their children’s ministry as Sunday School Teacher. As a result of Outreach efforts, the church has been blest to have many young people come to Sunday worship without their parents. For anyone who has a heart to sow the seeds of the gospel in young hearts, prayerfully consider answering this call and becoming part of the Austin church family. If you are interested, send an e-mail to the acscsc@comcast.net with your name, contact information and a brief description of why you are interested and feel that God is calling you into this work. Your response will be directed to the appropriate brothers within the Church Establishment Committee and the Austin Church leadership. Desired Qualifications 1) Servant Heart - willingness to serve in children’s ministry and support a smaller Apostolic Christian Church in Austin, Texas. 2) Integrity - demonstrate high spiritual standards and be a committed Christ-follower. 3) Support local church efforts - willingness to understand the current outreach efforts within the Austin church and work with established brethren. 4) Brother or sister with the support of the local elder. 5) Spanish may be helpful in communicating with parents/grandparents, but all children are fluent in English. Background This request for assistance to our national churches is the result of “pilots” currently being undertaken by the Church Establishment Committee in two of our smaller Apostolic Christian congregations – Austin, TX and St. Louis, MO. The Committee, which is a sub-committee of the Mission Committee, is working to assess the needs of these smaller congregations and assist in providing resources, tools and services to help them become self-sustaining, thriving churches which exalt Christ through actively living our 4 Pillar Mission Statement. This includes 1) sharing the gospel with the lost, 2) nurturing the believers, 3) contending for the faith and preserving sound doctrine, and 4) meeting the needs of the community through acts of service. Teacher Needed – Athens Preschool There is currently a teaching position available at the Apostolic Christian Preschool in Athens, AL. We are looking for a preschool teacher who is willing to start in June of 2015. This is a wonderful opportunity to support one of our smaller congregations. This is a paid position with medical benefits. Church housing is available. Applicants must be at least 19 years old and be a member of the Apostolic Christian Church. Basic computer skills are necessary. If you have questions contact Sis. Kalla Knobloch at (309) 231-1755. You may also e-mail your resume to acpreschool2015@gmail.com. Thank you for your prayerful consideration! 54 SILVER LINING October 2015 515 E. Highland Street, Morton, IL 61550 Tel: (309) 263-5536 Fax: (309) 263-6841 www.accounseling.org ACCFS has launched a new website! We want to inform you of the launch of our new, responsive design website at www.accounseling.org. Reformatted and designed to correctly respond to whatever device it is viewed on, our website should now provide a similar experience whether accessing the site from your desktop, laptop, tablet, or smart phone. The wealth of information from our old website will continue to be available in addition to much more! We have added two links to our homepage with the following questions: Are you hurting? Desiring to grow? These links will take you to a series of questions to help you find the area of the website which will provide the information you are looking for in your present situation. We have organized the majority of our website into six general content areas: • Marriage • Parenting • Spiritual Growth • Sexuality • Relationships • Mental Health For further quick reference, we have also grouped information into eight areas categorized by role, stage of life, or specific need: • Men • Elders • Singles • Technology • Women • Ministers • Mentors • ACWP Mentors There will be a “featured resource” posted every week to highlight the variety and extent of content available for your use. We invite you to explore the new website and welcome your feedback and suggestions (office@ accounseling.org). It is our desire to use our website to exemplify our mission statement: Helping the Hurting, Nurturing Hope, Encouraging Growth Christian Guesthouse and Worship Services in Rochester, MN Accommodations for Mayo Clinic outpatients and families: Three bedrooms with private baths, laundry, kitchen and family room area. Sunday Service: Mid-week Service: (held monthly at guesthouse residence) 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM For information and reservations, contact caretakers: Bro. Mark and Sis. Sandy Stork 4733 Birdie Lane NW, Rochester, MN 55901 (507) 288-0072 (held on 3rd Wednesday in Rochester area) For information, contact: Bro. Jim and Sis. Deb Tilbury (507) 281-2875 For church services schedule please visit www.acmission.org/minister-rotation October 2015 SILVER LINING 55 Medical Team Updated 10/17/14 Juarez Medical Location Location Magdalena Juarez Construction Medical Location Magdalena Magdalena Construction Construction Mexico Work Teams Year 2015 Sep 9 - Sep 15 Coordinator Cheryl Herrman cherrmann@frontier.com Year 2016 Coordinator 2015 Jan Sep 99 -- 16 Sep 15 Bruce CherylFrank Herrman 217-375-4346 cherrmann@frontier.com bfrank@ksiconveyors.com Year 2016 Coordinator Jan 9 - 16 Bruce Frank Feb 6 - 13 Troy Lanz 217-375-4346 217-202-5959 bfrank@ksiconveyors.com troy@lanzinc.com Feb 6 - 13 Troy Lanz Feb 13 - 20 Jon Baner 217-202-5959 309-532-9435 troy@lanzinc.com jon.baner@gmail.com Feb 13 - 20 Jon Baner Mar 5 - 12 Gabe Meiss 309-532-9435 ISU jon.baner@gmail.com 309-222-7819 gabe.meiss@gmail.com Mar 5 - 12 Gabe Meiss ISU Mar 19 - 26 Dean Sinn 309-222-7819 Silverton Bible Class gabe.meiss@gmail.com 503-873-4622 deansinn@yahoo.com Mar 19 - 26 Dean Sinn Silverton Bible Class Mar 26 - Apr 2 Greg Moser 503-873-4622 Roanoke Jr/Sr Sunday School deansinn@yahoo.com 309-923-5791 gsmoser@frontier.com Mar 26 - Apr 2 Greg Moser Roanoke Jr/Sr Sunday School Apr 2 - 9 Joe Beer 309-923-5791 Leo Bible Class gsmoser@frontier.com jhbeer@gmail.com 260-466-5461 Apr 2 - 9 Joe Beer Leo Bible Class Jun 11 - 18 Jeff Stoller jhbeer@gmail.com Morton Bible Class 260-466-5461 309-202-6468 drjeff@stollerdds.com Jun 11 - 18 Jeff Stoller Morton Bible Class Capacity Year 2015 Coordinator Jun 18 - 25 Jim Rieker 309-202-6468 Jun 20‐27 David Zimmerman 8‐10 Peoria Bible Class drjeff@stollerdds.com dlzimm4@hotmail.com 309-231-7400 jrieker@sbcglobal.net Jun 18 - 25 Jim Rieker Peoria Bible Class 2‐4 Jul 18‐25 David Zimmerman Contact Mike Fiechter 309-231-7400 dlzimm4@hotmail.com mfiechter@onlyinternet.net jrieker@sbcglobal.net 260-597-7330 Aug 22‐29 David Zimmerman Contact Mike Fiechter2‐4 mfiechter@onlyinternet.net dlzimm4@hotmail.com 260-597-7330 Year 2015 Coordinator Capacity Mexico Work Teams Magdalena Magdalena Construction Construction Magdalena Magdalena Construction Construction Magdalena Construction Magdalena Construction Magdalena Construction Magdalena Construction Magdalena Construction Magdalena Construction Magdalena Construction Magdalena Construction Magdalena Bonne Finn, Haiti Aug 8‐15 Hospital Lumiere Updated 10/17/14 Inventory Team Haiti Work Teams ‐ Bonne Fin Construction Project Magdalena Hospital Lumiere Construction Construction Magdalena Construction Hospital Lumiere Scheduling Questions? Electrical Hospital Lumiere Scheduling Questions? Plumbing Project Hospital Lumiere Construction Haiti Work Teams ‐ Bonne Fin Jun 20‐27 Oct 3‐10 David Zimmerman 8‐10 dlzimm4@hotmail.com Jul 18‐25 2‐4 Hospital Lumiere Nov 28‐Dec 5 David Zimmerman 8‐10 Electrical dlzimm4@hotmail.com Maintenance / Painting Hospital Lumiere Haiti Plumbing Project Dumay Hospital Lumiere Lifeline Construction Aug 22‐29 David Zimmerman Lifeline Work Teams Year 2016 Jan 12-19 Oct 3‐10 Construction/Concrete 2‐4 dlzimm4@hotmail.com Coordinator Capacity Neil Bahler 12 David Zimmerman 8‐10 1-815-848-3861 dlzimm4@hotmail.com nbahler@gmail.com Dumay Jan 19-26 Darren Fehr 12 Hospital Lumiere Nov 28‐Dec 5 David Zimmerman 8‐10 Lifeline 1-815-674-9363 Maintenance / Painting dlzimm4@hotmail.com Construction/Concrete dkfehr@maxwire.net Dumay Lifeline Construction/Concrete Jan26-Feb 2 Dumay Lifeline Construction Dumay Lifeline Construction 56 Paul Zimmerman 1-815-848-2173 pallan2@frontier.com 12 Feb 2-9 Reuben Stork 1-217-898-3436 rdstork_85@yahoo.com 12 Feb 9-16 Matt Kinsinger 1-847-774-4015 steffenstrahm@comcast.net 12 SILVER LINING October 2015 lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Lydia Bertschi 309‐253‐0402 lydiabertschi@yahoo.com 8 Bonne Finn, Haiti Sept 12‐19 Lydia Bertschi 8 Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Haiti Medical Work Teams Cancer Screening Project Year 2015 lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Coordinator Capacity Bonne Finn, Haiti Jun 13‐20 Lydia Bertschi 8 Bonne Finn, Haiti Lydia Bertschi 8 Hospital Lumiere Nov 7‐14 309‐253‐0402 Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Cancer Screening lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Nursing Proficiencies lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Bonne Finn, Haiti Jul 11‐18 Lydia Bertschi 8 Hospital Lumiere Dec 12‐19 Lydia Bertschi 309‐253‐0402 Bonne Finn, Haiti 8 Medical Team lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 General Medical lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Bonne Finn, Haiti Aug 8‐15 Lydia Bertschi 8 Hospital Lumiere Project Year 2016 309‐253‐0402 Coordinator Capacity Inventory Team Jan 9 ‐ 16 lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Bonne Finn, Haiti Lydia Bertschi 8 Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Bonne Finn, Haiti Sept 12‐19 lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Lydia Bertschi 8 Inventory Team Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Cancer Screening Feb 13 ‐ 20 Lydia Bertschi lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Bonne Finn, Haiti 8 Hospital Lumiere Bonne Finn, Haiti Oct 10‐17 General Medical Hospital Lumiere Dental Team Bonne Finn, Haiti Mar 12 ‐ 19 Hospital Lumiere Bonne Finn, Haiti Nov 7‐14 Eye Specialty Hospital Lumiere Nursing Proficiencies Bonne Finn, Haiti Apr 9 ‐ 16 Hospital Lumiere Bonne Finn, Haiti Dec 12‐19 Dental Team Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Lydia Bertschi lydiabertschi@yahoo.com 309‐253‐0402 lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Lydia Bertschi 309‐253‐0402 Lydia Bertschi lydiabertschi@yahoo.com 309‐253‐0402 lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Lydia Bertschi 309‐253‐0402 Lydia Bertschi lydiabertschi@yahoo.com 309‐253‐0402 8 8 8 8 8 Inventory Team lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Bonne Finn, Haiti 8 8 Bonne Finn, Haiti May 7 ‐ 14 May 7 ‐ 14 Lydia Bertschi Lydia Bertschi Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Hospital Lumiere Project Year 2016 309‐253‐0402 Coordinator Capacity Cancer Screening lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Cancer Screening Bonne Finn, Haiti Jan 9 ‐ 16 lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Lydia Bertschi 8 Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Bonne Finn, Haiti Jun 11 ‐ 18 Lydia Bertschi 8 Cancer Screening lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Inventory Team lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Bonne Finn, Haiti Feb 13 ‐ 20 Lydia Bertschi 8 Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Bonne Finn, Haiti Jul 9 ‐ 16 Lydia Bertschi General Medical lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 General Medical lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Bonne Finn, Haiti Mar 12 ‐ 19 Lydia Bertschi 8 Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Bonne Finn, Haiti Aug 13 ‐ 20 Lydia Bertschi Eye Specialty lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Well Child Visits lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Bonne Finn, Haiti Apr 9 ‐ 16 Lydia Bertschi 8 Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Bonne Finn, Haiti Sep 10 ‐ 17 Lydia Bertschi Dental Team lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Cancer Screening lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Bonne Finn, Haiti Oct 8 ‐ 15 Hospital Lumiere Dental Team Lydia Bertschi 309‐253‐0402 lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Bonne Finn, Haiti Nov 12 ‐ 19 Lydia Bertschi Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Nursing Proficiencies lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Bonne Finn, Haiti Dec 10 ‐ 17 Lydia Bertschi Hospital Lumiere 309‐253‐0402 Inventory Team lydiabertschi@yahoo.com Project Haiti Work Teams ‐ Les Cayes Year 2015 Coordinator Nov 13 ‐ 20 Maurice Schaefer 309‐253‐9003 schaefs2@gmail.com 4 Les Cayes Nov 13 ‐ 20 Haiti Trade Schools Vocational School Andy Getz 574-870-5046 andy@getzitdone.com 4 Les Cayes SEED Agricultural Nov 13 ‐ 21 Art Mueller 608‐676‐4365 art.marlene.mueller@gmail.com 8 Les Cayes MEBSH Haiti Support Nov 18 ‐ 23 Jon Zeller 309‐266‐9009 jczeller1972@gmail.com ACWR‐CC Les Cayes MEBSH/Bluffton Construction Dec 4 ‐ 11 Lane Gerber 260‐241‐4099 lane.gerber@gmail.com 12 Project Year 2016 Coordinator Les Cayes MEBSH/Ohio Construction Jan 2‐9 Ron Palitto 330‐336‐5373 Ronp@palittoconsulting.com 12 Les Cayes AWA Water Aid Jan 8 ‐ 15 Maurice Schaefer 309‐253‐9003 schaefs2@gmail.com 4 Les Cayes MEBSH/Silverton Construction Jan 29‐Feb 5 Richard Kraft 503‐364‐3103 richard@kraftmasonryinc.com 12 Les Cayes SEED Agricultural Feb 12‐19 Larry Kaufmann 815‐716‐6018 ljkaufmann@juno.com 12 Les Cayes MEBSH/Roanoke Construction Feb 26 ‐ Mar 4 Rich Bertschi 309‐467‐2351 lemangm@mtco.com Les Cayes AWA Water Aid Capacity Medical Teams Physicians, surgeons, anesthesiologists, pharmacists, laboratory techs, radiology techs, ultrasound techs, occupational and physical therapists, nurses and other specialists who are willing to assist with general medical and surgical care are invited to participate on weeklong medical teams. See the current schedule (including dates for 2016). Construction Teams Capacity 12 Les Cayes March 4 ‐ 11 Haiti Trade Schools Vocational School andy@getzitdone.com Les Cayes AWA Water Aid March 4 ‐ 11 Maurice Schaefer 309‐253‐9003 schaefs2@gmail.com 4 Les Cayes MEBSH/Peoria Construction April 1 ‐ 8 Steve Leuthold 309‐645‐2208 sleuth@speerbank.com 12 Les Cayes MEBSH Haiti Support Apr 13 ‐ 18 Jon Zeller 309‐266‐9009 jczeller1972@gmail.com ACWR‐CC Les Cayes MEBSH Maintenance April 19 ‐ 26 Jon Zeller 309‐266‐9009 jczeller1972@gmail.com 12 Andy Getz 574-870-5046 Haiti Volunteers Are Needed 4 Electricians, cabinet makers, plumbers and carpenters are needed to continue the renovations. The work is great. This is an excellent opportunity to help in the work and become more familiar with the culture and Hospital Lumiere campus. See the current schedule. Church Ministers The work at Hospital Lumiere is more than material and the needs are more than physical. The Hospital staff and the team workers understand the true objective is that all may come to know and glorify God through a born again life, a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and living in obedience to the Bible. Apostolic Christian Church ministers are needed to assist in this role as they accompany medical and construction teams to Hospital Lumiere. Team ministers coordinate daily devotions and provide spiritual support for the team members, hospital staff, patients and their families. For more information contact Rich Bertschi at 309-467-2351 or lemangm@mtco.com Haiti Awareness Tours If you’d like to see the ministry of Hospital Lumière and other Haiti projects in person, but do not have the time or desire to participate in a week-long work team, please consider our new Awareness Tours. These are quick trips that give interested parties the opportunity to meet our missionary families, learn more about the hospital, see the completed renovations and work in process, and visit some of the other World Relief projects in southern Haiti. These trips are scheduled, as needed, based upon demand, currently the next trip is scheduled for Mar. 4-9, 2016. To learn more, contact: Rich Bertschi at 309.467.2351 or lemangm@mtco.com or Rick Wuethrich at 219.863.4163 or rick@wuethrichfarms.com October 2015 SILVER LINING 57 Medical Director Needed at Hospital Lumiere If you are a licensed physician with a God-inspired desire to provide medical care and leadership in an under-served part of Haiti, this may be the opportunity of a lifetime. The Need A licensed physician is needed to replace our Medical Director, Dr. Lee Klopfenstein, when his term is completed in 2016. To fill this full-time position, one must have a U.S. medical license, be Board-Certified in some aspect of medicine or surgery, be a Believer in Jesus Christ, have experience a team of excellent Haitian physicians and surgeons, and oversight of the nursing, laboratory, radiology and pharmacy departments of this 120-bed full-service hospital and out-patient facility. For more information contact: Robert Beebe Executive Director robert.beebe1@gmail.com 574-276-6748 in leadership and management, be capable of learning the Creole language, and be willing to reside with your family on the Hospital Lumiere campus for up to five years. The position involves leading www.acworldrelief.org Patient Care Manager Needed at Hospital Lumiere H to learn the Creole language, be a member of the Apostolic Christian Church and be willing to relocate to Haiti for a term of up to 5 years. ospital Lumiere is seeking a qualified person to be assigned as Patient Care Manager of the hospital in Bonne Fin, Haiti. This is full-time position. For more information contact: Robert Beebe Executive Director robert.beebe1@gmail.com 574-276-6748 Description The duties of Patient Care Manager include planning, supervising & training employees and coordinating & implementing programs of nursing care for all hospital patients. Requirements Applicants should hold an RN 58 SILVER LINING October 2015 degree and have at least 3 years of nursing experience, some management capability, be able www.acworldrelief.org Medical Department Intern Opportunity in Haiti Hospital Lumiere, Bonne Fin, Haiti is presently seeking an energetic, self-motivated, responsible Believer to fill the position of Medical Department Intern. Position Description This six-month position is involved in helping the Medical Director with staff scheduling, answering or relaying inquiries from each medical department (Nursing, Pharmacy, Radiology, Laboratory), ensuring all inventory and supply reports are transmitted and filed, and assisting the Administration with other assigned tasks and responsibilities. The hospital will provide a translator, lodging, food and living expenses. No medical training is required, but is helpful. If you are seeking an exciting opportunity to serve God and others, have a servant’s heart, appreciate new horizons and challenges and have six months to devote to furthering the Lord’s work in Haiti, please contact us for a complete job description and details of the internship. For more information contact: Robert Beebe Executive Director robert.beebe1@gmail.com 574-276-6748 www.acworldrelief.org Surgeon and Medical Physician Needed at Hospital Lumiere Hospital Lumiere in Bonne Fin, Haiti, a medical ministry operated by World Relief, is seeking the following: Surgeon A surgeon is needed immediately to provide professional and Christian oversight and management of the Surgery Department of Hospital Lumiere, and actively be involved in surgical cases in their specialty. The surgeon can be boarded in general, urologic, orthopedic or other surgical field. Medical Physician A medical physician with family practice, pediatrics, emergency, or other medical subspecialty experience is needed immediately Both of these positions are fulltime, but can be adapted to accommodate a physician who is willing to reside on the campus part-time or for several weeks at a time. Please prayerfully consider whether God is calling you to serve in Haiti. to enhance the diagnostic and treatment capability of our Medical Department, provide education and mentoring of our Haitian medical providers, encourage patient-focused care and maintain our mission of quality care with Christian love. For more information contact: Robert Beebe Executive Director robert.beebe1@gmail.com 574-276-6748 www.acworldrelief.org October 2015 SILVER LINING 59 Openings at Cite Lumiere, Les Cayes, Haiti Mechanic, Construction Department Assistant The AC World Relief Caribbean Committee is seeking to fill several missionary positions based at the Cite Lumiere compound in Les Cayes, Haiti. The specific job description may vary depending on the applicant’s interests and skills. Help is specifically needed in the following areas: Equipment mechanic An equipment mechanic is needed in the Construction Department in Haiti to maintain the vehicles, generators, and construction equipment at Cite Lumiere and Bonne Finn, Haiti and order, purchase, and maintain inventory of parts to support the World Relief programs in southern Haiti. This position would also involve training and mentoring a Haitian assistant to provide future mechanical maintenance. The equipment mechanic would reside in the Cite Lumiere compound in Les Cayes and report to the ACWR Construction Operations Facilitator. The applicant should be experienced in mechanical maintenance. Construction Dept. Assistant An assistant is needed in the Construction Department at Cite Lumiere as the work has expanded for the program and related ministries. This applicant could be a single brother or couple. Skills that would be valuable in the ministry include: • Carpentry • Mechanical experience • Basic computer knowledge • Ability to work with all types of people and personalities Interested in receiving a printed sermon? To order, contact: Printed Sermons P.O. Box 154, Forrest, IL 61741 (815) 848-5113 • printedsermons@gmail.com 60 SILVER LINING October 2015 All applicants must be a member in good standing of the Apostolic Christian Church, willing to learn Creole and relocate to Haiti for a minimum of 3 years, and have a heart to serve the Haitian people. If you feel led to serve or have questions, contact: Bro. Jon Zeller 309-208-0639 Jczeller1972@gmail.com www.acworldrelief.org Used Bible, Bible Story Book, and Song Book Distribution Used Bibles, Bible Story Books, Hymns of Zion, Zion’s Harp, Gospel Hymns, and Tabernacle Hymns are needed. AC Publications is now the collection center for your donated books. 651 E. Peoria St, Goodfield, IL 61742 Give a Child Hope Child Sponsorships To sponsor a child T hose in the child sponsorship program have several things in common. They are very poor, desire to learn and they have an undying soul. To sponsor a student fill out this form and send to the office. A student will be assigned to you and you will be sent further information. The goal of this program is to provide an education to help these children learn life skills to improve their standard of living, and also to provide spiritual training to address the true need...the need for a knowledge of and a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Name _________________________ And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children. IsaIah 54:13 Mr. Mrs. Miss Spouse ________________________ Address _______________________ City ____________St ___ Zip _____ Home Ph ______________________ Cell Ph ________________________ Email _________________________ Please check preference: Haiti Guatemala Jamaica Mexico Zambia Wherever needed If possible I would prefer: Boy – Age Girl – Age No Preference Cost: $30.00/month For details: www.acworldrelief.org Send to: ACWR Child Sponsorship PO Box 36 Morton, IL 61550 Phone: 309-266-6080 Fax: 309-266-5281 E-mail: childsponsorship@acwr.org www.acworldrelief.org Haitian Handmade Shoppe Friday, November 13, 2015 @ 1:00-7:30 pm Saturday, November 14, 2015 @ 8:30 am-12:30 pm Tremont Apostolic Christian Fellowship Hall 601 S. Chestnut St. Tremont, IL Please come support the women of Haiti at the only open house for Centre Lumiere in central Illinois this fall! The students of Centre Lumiere are taught Bible, life-skills, health and needlework. Exquisite handmade items will be available for purchase. All proceeds are returned to the school, providing the students an income for their livelihood. Contact Sis. Diane Koch with questions: (309) 634-5873 Items Available: doll clothes (fit American Girl Doll), baby items (new this year!) and children’s accessories. Also, aprons, kitchen towels, napkins, bags, totes, purses, home décor, hats, scarves, shawls, tablecloths and runners. October 2015 SILVER LINING 61 Bible Studies offered by the Apostolic Christian Church Jesus the True Vine [1501] This Bible Study focuses on John 15:1-8 and is intended for a general audience. Price: $4.50 Communication in Marriage [1502] This is a Bible Study that is designed specifically for use by engaged or married couples. Price: $4.50 Who Is Jesus [1503] This Bible Study is for general use and is designed to encourage self-study by each participant as well as discussion within a group. Price: $4.50 Salvation Bible Study [1510] God says that the most important thing of all is to know Him personally, both now and eternally. He desires a personal and intimate relationship with you through His son, Jesus Christ. This Bible study on Salvation is interactive with the Word of God. You will be looking up the answers in His Word to see what He says. His Word, the Bible, is the authority on Salvation. It is the exclusive source for information about how a man can be redeemed NEW from his lost condition and about how he is to BIBLE STUDY live after his salvation. Price: $4.50 AVAILABLE The Second Greatest Commandment [1504] This Bible study seeks to illuminate our understanding of Bible teachings about interpersonal relationships. Price: $4.50 The Hand of God in the Life of Joseph [1505] We see the hand of God in the life of Joseph, which demonstrates how God’s goodness is active in the lives of his people. Price: $4.50 For additional information and ordering visit www.acpublications.org Apostolic Christian Publications - 651 East Peoria St., Goodfield, IL 61742 Mature Mentors Needed – The New Beginnings of Southwest Florida Mentoring at The New Beginnings is a way for those who feel called to share God’s unconditional love with hurting single mothers and their children. The New Beginnings is looking for mentor couples who are outreach-minded and called by God to come join us in building relationships with these mothers. We currently are looking for a couple who are in their 50’s or 60’s to serve with us in Florida. We see a massive benefit to having mentors of all ages support the moms in our program, especially those who can fill a “Grandma and Grandpa” roll to these women who’ve never had grandparents. Please prayerfully consider this mission and helping single mothers. Contact us for more information concerning this opportunity. The New Beginnings 4810 Marine Dr. Cape Coral FL, 33904 239.541.4312 thenewbeginningsofswfl@yahoo.com 62 SILVER LINING October 2015 Continued Articles Choosing a Career — Continued from pg. 3 it without concern for whether we are being compensated fairly or not; for we serve the Lord Christ. This meshing of faith and work may be a new perspective to some believers. One may wonder, “How can I accomplish this?” There are some simple ways to demonstrate the pureness of heart that a believer has because of Jesus and through the Holy Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit includes; love, joy, peace, gentleness, meekness, kindness, etc.12 Working with joy will immediately give us opportunity to serve others. Coworkers and customers alike will gravitate toward a cheerful person. Serving with a gentle and meek spirit will quickly assure coworkers that we are not there to run them down or climb over them in a race up the “corporate ladder.” Seeking peace and being peaceable will serve to calm a workplace and provide those who are not peaceful a source of inspiration and help. The primary way to serve in the workplace is to reflect the nature of God through the reality of the Holy Spirit living in us. When we consider the freedom that we have today, it raises questions that would never have been raised in ancient times. Many throughout history had no options. They were born to a trade, or born to the farm, or perhaps to tend livestock. It was difficult to find other opportunities because survival was much more important than finding fulfillment in a career. In our time, we have many more options. Finding a career that meshes with our talents and abilities is a good thing. However, whether one finds himself in a job that is not fulfilling, or in a job that is extremely gratifying, the way in which we do the job is much more important than which job we have. Preparing oneself for service through the power of the Spirit of Christ is the most important ingredient in serving others through work. What we do for a living may not be as important as how we do it—heartily and honestly, with the mind of Christ. (Footnotes) 1 Col. 3:23 2 Matt. 6:34 3 Matt. 6:25 4 Luke 2:49 5 Prov. 6:6-8 6 Prov. 24:27 7 2 Thess. 3:10 8 1 Thess. 4:11-12 9 2 Thess. 3:8 10 2 Cor. 11:9 11 Col. 3:22-24 12 Gal. 5:22-23 Haiti Water Aid — Continued from pg. 6 salary of the drillers and buys fuel for the trucks. This also helps the community to feel ownership and take care of the well. How you can help We are very thankful for the prayers and support shown to this mission. We are very thankful we have faithful brethren that continue to volunteer for Water Aid work trips. Without these volunteers we would not be able to continue the mission. But there continues to be a need for more brethren to fill these work teams. While mechanical knowledge is helpful, it is not absolutely necessary. On the work trip, we usually spend several days working on the equipment then help drill a well. Trip schedules can be found in the Silver Lining or on acworldrelief.org. Prayers are needed for the mission. This is difficult, and sometimes dangerous, work. Wells are occassionally drilled on top of mountains and the roads are treacherous. Pray for the Haitian drill team’s safety. Also pray for the health of the drillers as they have many medical problems. Donations can be made to World Relief with Haiti Water Aid — Please turn to pg. 64 October 2015 SILVER LINING 63 Continued Articles Haiti Water Aid — Continued from pg. 63 designated. Since the current drill rig is very old and requires much maintenance, we are considering purchasing a newer drill rig and additional funding will be needed to make this happen. We also have a donated well fund where you can donate $2,000 to provide a well for a community that cannot afford the fee. The community is then asked to pay only a small amount they can afford. If you participate in this fund, information on where the well is drilled and photos of the well will be sent to the contributor. Contact Maurice Schaefer at (309) 253-9003 or schaefs2@gmail.com for details. The Church & Singleness — Continued from pg. 9 encouragement, support and value in this world? Only the Church. May we do our part together to make this a reality. ACCFS continues to develop resources to help singles in their walk with the Lord. These resources can be found on our website at www.accounseling.org/ singleness. If you would like more information or have requests/ comments, please contact ACCFS at (309)263-5536 or singleness@ accounseling.org. 64 SILVER LINING September 2015 Establishing Churches — Continued from pg. 7 We pray that through this process the work by the CAC brothers and everyone who will answer God’s call will be a blessing to the churches in Austin and St. Louis and in time to all of our small churches that desire bolstering assistance. Focus on Outreach with an initial group of believers. After considering several locations, the CEC has elder support to prayerfully research options near Omaha, NE. In this effort, we ask for prayer for the continued direction of the Holy Spirit. A sub-committee, led by Elder Bro. Tom Waldbeser, will be working alongside Elder Bro. John Lehman in this endeavor. Your Support Needed We ask for your support in these A consistent expression by those in endeavors, first through prayer our small congregations is a desire and then by considering how you, for assistance with outreach to help your family, and your congregation in their growth efforts. Several could engage in these efforts. We resources have been reviewed would also welcome you to share and tools are being developed to your comments and suggestions help brethren understand how to with the CEC. Finally, we are undertake outreach and ways to looking for brethren (especially overcome the inhibitors to sharing ministers) that would have a heart the gospel. We plan to pilot these to help bolster a small church or be materials within the congregations involved in the planting of a new that are part of the bolstering one by considering the possibility efforts listed above. We would also of relocation. In all of this work, like to communicate these outreach we pray that God will continue to resources to our broader national open opportunities before us as a church with the intent to make church, that He will call brethren reaching the lost with the complete to labor in his vineyard, and that gospel of truth a greater part of our His name will be exalted above all. everyday living and church culture. CEC Committee Members: Elder Bro. Duane Rocke, Elder God’s Work in Establishing Bro. Tom Waldbeser, Bros. New Churches Frank Sauder, Matt Knapp, The Committee has been given Clint Dotterer, Matthew Rassi, support to seek out a location Chad Leman, Kirk Plattner and to start a new church in an area Arlan Miller. Monthly Sermon, continued — Continued from pg. 5 that most of the congregation here knew of the story, could remember the loaves and the fishes and what the miracle was. But, take yourself back and make yourself a disciple watching Jesus do it the first time, or sit on the hillside and wonder at what is going to happen next. And when we get in the boat and we’re part way across the water, be fearful and quake! So as we read these words again, I think we’re somewhat disadvantaged by knowing the whole story. So if we can, try to step back from the story you know and read these words as if it were the first time. Wonder in awe just like the people at what would happen next. As we begin reading this, the apostles have just returned from having done many miracles and wonders and signs in His name. They came back and are telling Jesus. They are all bubbling about what’s going on. They are very excited. Just like this morning, Jesus said, you know what? It’s time to step back. Let’s go some place and rest a little bit. You’ve gotten a little bit worked into this. It’s time to take a break. Blessed is the hour! Let’s go some place where there are not the distractions. Let’s go to a desert. I don’t know if you’ve had the opportunity to be in the desert. I’ve traveled through some on the way to Magdalena, Mexico. There’s not much there. It’s certain you think if you could get out of here there wouldn’t be much to distract you. Where we live in Chicago I can look at the sky and probably 90% of the time find a jet, a plane, a streak of a jet or a plane somewhere. Everything is busy. When you are in the desert, you look up and around you may not see anything in the sky, perhaps some clouds, but certainly not streaks of jets. In fact, we’re in sort of a landing pattern. There are times that they just seem to stack up coming towards our house. I wouldn’t see that in a desert. There would just be peace. Even last night we were at my parent’s place. I got out of the car and the crickets are chirping. You country folk take that for granted. I can’t remember the last time I’ve heard the chirping of the crickets and the locusts. I sat outside for a little bit while I was working and putting the car seats back in our car. I thought I could stay out here for a long time and listen to this. I have a feeling if I brought my child out and told her those are bugs she’d be scared. I find that humorous, but we just don’t have those noises in the suburbs and I miss that. But the peace of God lives in that silence at night with the chirping of the crickets and night noises and just to be away and to rest. So that’s where He takes them into the desert. All these people, though, know where He’s going and they outrun the boat. They beat Jesus to where He is going. So as they head to the desert and if you are like me, you’re going someplace — this is good; we’re going to get away. They got there and if I’m a disciple, I’m immediately disappointed, because all these people are here before me. This is supposed to be my time. This is supposed to be the time that I was going to get away and have some peace. This was supposed to be the time that I could relax. Have you ever been there? Have you ever come up on a weekend, perhaps that you looked forward to because the calendar was empty and said this is good weekend? I can rest this weekend. I can spend some time doing maybe some things in the yard which I find relaxing or I can do this or I can do that. Something comes up. They say there’s an opportunity to go serve here, or somebody’s coming through town and wanted to know if we’d like to get together for dinner. You name it. I’m sure you can come up with your own example. Immediately you think, oh, but this is supposed to be my weekend. But this was supposed to be my time. — Please turn to pg. 66 October 2015 SILVER LINING 65 Monthly Sermon, continued — Continued from pg. 65 But you know, God had other plans, and Jesus recognized this. It doesn’t say that Jesus got out of the boat and said, ‘Hey everybody, go home. This is our time. Leave us alone.’ No! “And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things” (v.34). Jesus recognized when God puts work in front of us we have to step by sometimes and say, ‘God, I’m going to do the work and I’m going to happy about it.’ It doesn’t say here that Jesus was angry or frustrated or anything. We just read this and in my mind I assume He went about this work willingly and thankfully with a joyful heart much different than I approach the work that’s sprung upon me in my relaxing weekend. Here Jesus is, and He begins to teach the people. He begins to tell them all the stories that God would have them to know that day. I wish we knew what this was. Again all we have is the Scriptures to go off of, and we just skipped a big portion of the day between when they see Jesus get out of the boat and when His disciples say it’s dinner time. I don’t know happened in that time. I really want to be there. I really want to 66 SILVER LINING October 2015 know what He taught the people. I really want to be a disciple sitting on the side. Were they like me — when you’re sitting waiting for someone, stamping your feet, and kind of waiting for Him to get done. Really? This is my time! Really? Is that how we are as a disciple sometimes? Really, God? I’m glad that I can do this service this weekend, but really this work project will be over in about an hour and I’ll be able to go back to what I want to do. Is that how we approach things when God has us to work? So here the disciples sit and wait. They get to dinner time and now is the time - send them away, Jesus. Send them away into the towns and the countries nearby. There’s a business man in the crowd — that’s wonderful! Again, we’re in the big city. Every now and then there’s a major event that comes to town. You see things about tourism dollars. There’s people staying in hotels, and they’re buying the food. Those are things that are hard to quantify, but if they have this convention, all these people will come. There will be all this money brought into the local economy. That’s wonderful the disciples here are doing that sort of thing. Send them into the countryside that they can buy food, supporting the local businesses. If we’re a business man in a capitalist society we say that’s a good thing. Jesus says, no, no, no! You feed them! Did the twelve look at one another one at a time and say, ‘Did I miss something? Did somebody forget the food for 5,000?’ I’m pretty sure there’s a lunch prepared here. In Chicago on more than one occasion since I’ve been up there for almost fifteen years, we’ve left Sunday worship service to discover that the person who is scheduled to serve lunch — this, by the way, is the beauty of a small church — forgot. Thankfully, because there are grocery stores nearby, somebody had run during morning service and bought some crackers and cheese and some milk, and we have a good lunch still. We trust that somebody here remembered that they were feeding today. Then the disciples had to look around and think who missed this one. Who missed this queue? Then they said, ‘Well, what do you have? How many loaves do you have?’ They take a count. I don’t know how long it took to count five loaves and two fishes, but I doubt it was very long. They took a count. They found five loaves and two fishes. He said to make them sit down in companies, divide them up (v.3940). The disciples did this. Again, if you’re in this crowd, I don’t know where you put yourself in this story this morning. Are you a disciple thinking this is ridiculous! I’ve got five pieces and two fish, and I’m making all these people sit down. What am I doing? Or are you in the crowd thinking what are we all getting into rows for? Why are we all sitting in groups all of a sudden? Why did He quit teaching? Why are His disciples bothering Him? They all sit down in companies. By the way, I don’t think my eyes had ever seen this: “upon the green grass” (v.39). We’re in a desert place, and there’s green grass. That struck me as an interesting part of the Scripture. The Scriptures, the Gospels in particular, are loaded with details that just catch our eye sometimes and make us shake our head and smile. Why did we need to know it was green grass? I don’t know how many times I’ve had this open to me in the service. This is the first time I’ve read green grass, but God opens our eyes to these little words. They all sat down on the green grass. He takes the bread and breaks. He takes the fish and breaks and blesses and passes it out. They all eat. Five thousand people eat off of five loaves of bread and two fish! If that weren’t a miracle enough to his disciples who are passing it out, if that’s where you put yourself in the story. He says, ‘Now gather it all up and bring back what’s left.’ They pass the leftovers down to the end of the row, and they get twelve baskets. When you picked up your basket in this story, how big was it? Was it a little lunch basket you could have for the next day to remind you? Maybe that basket contained five loaves and two fish. Did you pick up a bushel basket, and it was just huge and overflowing? I’ve read this story and had my mind go one way and another way. One time I think it would almost be a joke to get a small basket with a few loaves and couple fish, and that would be what was leftover. For the disciples, each one gets one. There are twelve. They have these twelve baskets. Every disciple had their own basket. It’s a great detail in this story. It had to be a great faith building experience. If you’re a disciple, I’m sure you’ve just had your mind blown by what just happened. Then you get in the boat because He says get in the ship and go to the other side while I send the people away (v.45). I’m going to skip ahead a few verses, and it said, “For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened” (v.52). Wait a minute! Each one of them took a basket! Each one of them would have carried that basket somewhere. I’m guess it’s in the boat. Now they saw Jesus walking on water, and they are shocked. They can’t believe that He did this because they’ve already forgotten the miracle that happened just hours earlier despite the reminder of a basket sitting next to them. Have you been there? Have you ever done that? Have you ever seen God do amazing things, and then you came to the next crises and you forgot what He did before? I won’t get into many details, but our daughter, when she was born, went in the hospital for some time after she was born. As a new parent and as a first time parent, it was a traumatic experience. So many people told us, after a while these days will just seem a blur and you won’t remember them much. Just last night with some young couples we were getting to know, I mentioned that, and I said it’s kind of funny. She’s over two and half years old, and I don’t even hardly think of those days anymore. For two weeks, it consumed us! For two weeks, that was the crisis. For two nights at the beginning of those two weeks, my wife and I laid in bed and wept to God and said we don’t know what’s going on with our child. She’s in Your hands. — Please turn to pg. 68 October 2015 SILVER LINING 67 Monthly Sermon, continued — Continued from pg. 67 He took care of her just like we knew He would. He’s our refuge and our strength. The God of Jacob is our strength. We knew that, and He did. Now we look back, and I forget that. The next crisis comes up and something happens, and we get all wrapped up in it. Do you think that my mind goes back to the miracle of Him saving my child? Or does it even go back to the fact that I have a child at all? That came up last night in our conversation with friends — the miracle of birth. You enter the room as two of you, you come out with three, and one of you is perfectly formed but in a tiny body. What an amazing miracle! We see these miracles around us all the time. This is farming country. Some months ago, you put a seed in the ground. It just came out and you’re yielding bushels you can’t believe. Maybe you’ve seen yields you haven’t ever seen before. Isn’t it a miracle that this one seed is producing ears of corn? Isn’t that a miracle? Yet when something happens and your car doesn’t start tomorrow, do you remember that miracle? These are the questions God brings to my heart when I read this story. Now they get in this ship, and they go the other way. There’s a verse, verse 46, “and when he 68 SILVER LINING October 2015 had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray”. Jesus had brought His disciples away for a time of quietness, a time to reconnect, and they were interrupted by the crowds. Jesus has the crowds, and He talks to them. He brings forth the message that God put on His heart that day. I don’t know what it is, but He brought it forth. Then they feed them this amazing miracle, and everybody’s shocked. His disciples are shocked. He sends them away. He goes about what He intended to do from the beginning which is to head into the mountains to pray, to get away a little bit. By the way, He sent the disciples on the water by themselves, away. There’s nobody to interrupt them as they rowed. There’s a storm on the waters. They are too busy being wrapped up in that to take in the fact of their quietness of alone time. Maybe the farmers are different than me. I’m in a car driving and there are times that it will cross my mind that I’m by myself. Now would be a good time to pray, but I’m quickly distracted. When I think of His disciples, it’s probably the same way. When you’re in your field and you’re coiling through the corn or the beans, I’m sure there are times when it’s good time to pray, but then you’re distracted by something on the monitor or something in front of you or something going on. Whatever it might be. Perhaps it’s even a quail flying out of the field or a pheasant. I don’t know. But something jars us and we aren’t very good at staying in the moment. Jesus went alone into the mountain to pray. Take the opportunities you’re given to get alone with God. Take your opportunities whether you’re rowing your boat so to speak, or whether you are away in the mountains alone. Take the time to speak with God, to commune with Him. Ask Him to open your eyes to where you missed the miracle around you. We go back to the story to the disciples who are in the boat. If you are in that boat as a disciple, you are rowing, and it’s really, really frustrating because there’s a storm. Every time you put the paddle in to go forward a wave knocks you back. We say one step forward and two steps back or two steps forward and one step back. That’s how the disciples felt. Every row forward they are getting hit back by the wind and the waves. In the midst of this, they see something, a person, the form of a person, walking on this water that they can’t row through. Are you scared in the boat? You’re scared enough because of this storm, perhaps, and now you see a figure walking. Aren’t you scared too? Aren’t you with the disciples that you cry out in fear? Can you see them hitting each other on the shoulder and pointing and yelling? Maybe yelling go away, go away! Leave us alone! Does it ever cross their mind that it could be Jesus? Does it ever cross our mind in crisis when we see Jesus approaching that it could be Him? I don’t know how that scenario plays out today for you and I in the boat when we’re rowing and things get hard. We see Jesus coming, and we don’t recognize Him coming in the form of someone, perhaps, who’s coming to offer a lending hand that just isn’t any good at that. Have you been there when you’ve been in a really difficult situation and could use some help, and the person that comes to offer help is not the person who is going to be most helpful? Again I use my children. They’re great examples. When I forget something and I send my daughter, I know it’s a risk that what I’ve sent her to get will come back at all or in the form that it was when she picked it up. Two days ago, I sent her downstairs for my cell phone. She’s pretty good with it. I don’t worry that she’s going to drop it, but she might and she would break something that’s valuable to me. But she was the person I could call on to help. Have you been there? When Jesus came to help you and you didn’t recognize the person because they’re just not good at cooking. So and so offered to help me with a dinner, but she’s just a little scattered. Is that something you’ve said? She’s just not really reliable. They’re going to be late. They are always late. But, it’s Jesus coming to help you. You were frustrated, and He offers you help. We sometimes are more frustrated. I just think why do I do this to my Jesus? Here the disciples are seeing this spirit, and now they are more scared and more fearful. Jesus says it’s okay! It’s okay! He comes in the boat and the winds stop. Again, are you taken back? Are you a disciple who looks at this and says ‘the waters!’ Number one — it’s Jesus. Number two — everything goes calm. In another Scripture it says they were immediately at the shore (St. John 6:21). All these things happen at once. Put yourself in the story. Do they help you trust your God more? Do they help you realize what a refuge and strength He is when He provides the fish and the loaves in abundance for a crowd you didn’t see how you’d ever feed? Does it make you realize what a refuge that our God is when He steps into the boat? First you’re fearful of who it was, and He’s made Himself known. Not only has He made Himself known, the waves have ceased, and the waters are calm. We can go on in peace, trusting in our God! Are you in that boat today? Where are you now? I don’t know where you stand. I can think about where I stand. I would say at the moment I am not in a real heavy storm, but there are times I’m sitting on the shore instead next to the crowd of people and thinking this is supposed to be my time, Jesus. It’s supposed to be my time, God. Why are we here doing all of this? We’ve been doing a lot of running back and forth to Central Illinois in the car with our children. They are not the best travelers sometimes, and it can get old. But, have I sat and thought this is what we are called to or agreed to? We’re going to be okay. It’s going to be alright. Where are you in your life? What is taking you and consuming you at the moment? Are you able to sit in the crowd and just be amazed at the miracle? If we’re not amazed at the miracle, take yourself back and get away alone with God in the mountain to pray if you need too, and remember He’s your refuge and your strength. You can call on Him. He’ll make the waters calm. He’ll feed you as you need to be fed. He’ll provide. He is our refuge! October 2015 SILVER LINING 69 Learning from our history Remembering Our Spiritual Heritage This month is focusing on a great revival in Lewis County, New York in the summer of 1881. This research first appeared in Marching to Zion, and it’s from this church history book that excerpts are taken. An Ingathering of Souls During the Eldership of Peter Virkler, one of the greatest ingatherings of converts in the history of our church took place. In the summer of 1881, 140 converts were baptized. On thirteen successive Sundays, beginning June 5 and ending August 28, 139 baptisms were performed; and a few weeks months later on September 18, one more soul was baptized. It was a time of great joy for the church. An article entitled “Great Revival in New Bremen” appeared in a local newspaper. It refers to a Rev. Benedict Veianat who came from Illinois. The last name was misspelled from the German to English, and should have been Benedict Weyeneth. The article reads as follows: “Early last June Rev. Benedict Veianat, a minister of the German Evangelical Baptists, from Illinois, began a series of extra meetings of this sect in New Bremen. Meetings have been held daily at the churches either at Naumberg or New Bremen, and as the fruit of this labor 127 persons, mostly between the ages of 15 and 30 years, have been converted and baptized into the church by immersion, and the work still continues. The work is quiet, deep, and thorough. The church is very particular in receiving members and before baptism there must be evidence of sincere repentance and conversion. As a result of this work, the people all through the section over the river have been deeply interested, and the meetings have been crowded. Mr. Veianat has been very successful as a revivalist among the Germans, which language he speaks fluently.” (This article was found in the Bible of Priscilla Farney. 70 SILVER LINING October 2015 Reason(s) For the Ingathering One can only speculate on the reasons for such a massive spiritual harvest. No doubt Peter Virkler’s Godgiven talents in preaching helped stir an awakening. Too, the Mennonite infusion into the church twenty years earlier was still in force, and it’s likely a good number of the 1881 converts were those who decided to leave the Mennonite faith, repent, and join with the Evangelical Baptists (the initial name of our church here in America, and which was used in upstate New York). Also, there was a thirst for the truth, and when gospel came forth in all its truth, there were positive responses. Elder Peter Virkler Peter Virkler’s travels took him to the central part of the nation (Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa) and all the way to Oregon. He is credited with helping organize the church in Silverton, Oregon, in approximately 1879. In 1871, he had traveled to Europe and toured widely. He was accompanied by his wife, Anna Farney, whom he had married in 1853. The couple had no children, but were “foster parents” to many. He entered the ministry in 1853 and died in 1889 at age 60. His funeral was preached by Elder Michael Zimmerman of Congerville, Illinois (an early church official of that era). Elder Solomon Virkler A few years after the death of Peter Virkler, his nephew, Solomon Virkler, age 36, was ordained as Elder in 1891. He is recognized as the first minister in the New York churches (of our faith) to preach in the English language, although he also preached in German as well. He served until his death in 1897. Interestingly, Alpheus J. Virkler, Jr., two years older than his brother Solomon, was ordained as the next Elder in 1903. Alpheus was a farmer and also worked as a carpenter. -By Perry Klopfenstein Next Issue - A newspaper article about the church in Lewis County, New York. The Light of Hope Not By Force Recently the thought has come to me that no one can be forced to repent and become a child of God, or a Christian. A government could compel everyone to become a Christian in name, but not inwardly. If I understand it correctly, it has to be a working of the Holy Spirit from within a person. However, for us to be a good example of a true child of God and to teach the Gospel message, gives the Holy Spirit something to work with. Then the individual has to decide to repent or not to repent. The Lord Jesus Christ did not beg people to follow Him. When many people no longer followed Him, “Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?” John 6:67. I would have expected Jesus to have said something like this, “Now don’t you go away, too,” but He didn’t say that. He just asked, “Will ye also go away?” This implies “You don’t have to follow me if you don’t want to.” Jesus did not try to force people to follow Him. His method was simply a loving invitation. In the Old Testament it is written, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of Hosts.” Zechariah 4:6. The angel was speaking to Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah at the time of Israel’s return from the Babylonian captivity, if I’m not mistaken. In any case, the message is that things for God are not accomplished by man’s power or ability. It takes the spirit of God, the Holy Spirit. Both Jesus and John the Baptist began their ministry with these words, “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2 and 4:17. “Repent ye” is in the imperative mood which indicates it is a command, but it doesn’t mean your obedience will be forced upon you. No one is going to handcuff you and escort you into the kingdom of heaven. The only people who go to heaven are those who want to go to heaven. Jesus told a story of a man who made a great supper and bade many people. Many people made excuses as to why they could not come so the lord of the supper told his servants to bring in the poor, the maimed (disabled), the halt (crippled), and the blind. There was still room so we read, “And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.” Luke 14:23. Here again “compel” is in the imperative mood which indicates it is a command, but it falls short of forcing anyone. We simply need to do all we can to give the Holy Spirit the material He needs to convict people and to lead them to repentance. That desire and that conviction must come from within them. Timothy, Paul’s helper, was exhorted as follows: “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12. All believers should be a good example of what the Bible teaches. Therefore I request that everyone observe my appearance, as well as what I say and what I do, and kindly bring it to my attention where he or she thinks I could do better in accordance with what the Bible teaches. Unless we all do this and listen to one another, there is certainly danger that we will drift into more and more worldliness. It is difficult for us to see where we ourselves are failing. Referring to the above Bible verse, Timothy was exhorted to be an example of, among other things, purity. People have a secret longing to be pure and holy. If we believers, are not that kind of an example, markedly different from the world, who cares to be like us? Not by force, but by example and the Holy Spirit. -By Willis Ehnle October 2015 SILVER LINING 71 THE SILVER LINING 1523 County Road 400N Congerville, IL 61729 “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?” Psalm 42:1-2