- Apostolic Christian Church of America

SILVER LINING
2
Sermon by Elder Bro. Mark Streitmatter,
Bloomington-Normal, IL
Ezekiel 28 and 1 Corinthians 8
We greet you in the name of Jesus
Christ. What a wonderful honor
and privilege it is to worship God
and our Saviour. Verse 5 caught my
attention - referring to Christ - “Thy
helping hand and loving heart to sick
and lost didst Thou impart, and constantly for all didst care; Thy virtues,
Lord to me do share!” (The Image of
Christ, #164 Zion’s Harp)
That’s what makes this morning,
coming around the Word, so wonderful. It’s because we are going to
be engaged by the Bible and by Jesus
Christ - the One who has that presence. There have been lots of men,
women, people who have claimed
to represent God and who have
claimed to have a way to heaven or
truth. But, only Jesus Christ and
only this Bible have proven, through
their excellence and through truth,
that they are the way to the heart of
man and can give to us that wonderful virtue of love, truth, godliness,
and of course most of all salvation
through Jesus’ shed blood.
Sometimes those of us who have
been to church many, many times
for many, many years just come and
open the Bible, but really that means
we’ve lost that understanding of the
power of the Word and the Christ
who loves us dearly and wants to
speak to us. This morning my prayer
is that each of us will have the heart
and mind today that we are going
to meet Jesus and meet God’s Word,
the most wonderful book ever written - God’s truth to us.
Chapters 8, 9, and 10 in 1 Corinthians talk about what idolatry is
and how we interact with our brothers and sisters who are struggling
with the understanding or misunderstanding of idolatry. Looking
at some of the headings here, Paul
talks about his freedoms and rights
as an apostle, at the end of chapter
10 it talks about principles of being
liberated in Christ, and chapter 8
teaches about not eating meat.
We think about Ezekiel 28 where
the king of Tyrus had come to a moment in life where he saw himself
as God. Now I’m pretty confident if
you would have went and talked to
him, he might not have said it quite
like that, and most of us when we
place something above God - ourselves, some way we live, some way
we think, something we possess
- most of us would not say, “That’s
an idol to me”. But it can become an
idol or a stumbling block to someone else.
How many times, I didn’t count
them but at least four or five times,
in the last few verses he said “they
shall know that I am the Lord their
God”. At the heart of Christianity is
God saying I am God; I am sovereign or in control of everything, and
I want you to be in submission to
that sovereign rule. Of course the
sinful heart of man rebels against
that so God over and over teaches
us and challenges us. He has some
specifics here in the context of
Ezekiel, but you and I will have to
examine the specifics in our life.
He wants us to know that “I am
the Lord their God”. He is the Lord,
God, Sovereign. That’s not an issue.
It’s us knowing that, believing it,
and following through with it in our
lives.
We’re not going to talk too much
about the not eating meat concept
and the weaker brother because I
think that’s a specific principle that
is borne out of the first six verses.
That’s the first topic. Then it goes
into chapter 9 to some additional
topics, and then in chapter 10 he
Sermon continued on Page 46
January 2013
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January 2013
SILVER LINING
“Greater love hath no man than this,
that a man lay down his life for his
friends.” (John 15:13)
3
Light from the Word
The Faithful Church - Defined by Love
In Revelations 3:7-13 we are given an
encouraging description of a church that
Christ found to be very sound in their
service toward God. We often hear the
church in Philadelphia described as the
faithful or loyal church. Christ had nothing
negative to say about the church that was in
Philadelphia.
What was so special about the church
in Philadelphia? Jesus said the church
of Philadelphia “… hast kept my word,
and hast not denied my name” (Rev.3:8).
Philadelphia was faithful to the Word of
God and to the name of Jesus.
What does it mean to be faithful? To
be faithful is to be firmly connected to
the truth and to duty; to be constant in
performance and true to one’s word.
Throughout the year the concept of
“the faithful church” will be explored in a
number of ways in these “Light from the
Word” articles. In this first one, we will look
at the faithful church as defined by love.
Since the faithful church is defined by
love (Col. 1:2-4), we need to understand
what that means. We must go beyond
simply defining love. We need to better
understand the application of godly love,
which always seeks what is best for us.
We could easily go to the dictionary for
definitions or we could go on-line and
get hundreds of opinions about what it
means. However, since we are talking
about the faithful church, the bride of
Christ, we should look to the Word of
God for application of His love through
instructions as to how we should live. The
Word gives many teachings which establish
standards and boundaries that are for our
spiritual welfare. Through submission to
God’s loving direction and care, we can
benefit from the many instructions in His
Word that guide us aright and enable us
to overcome the temptations that Satan
brings. (1 John 2:15, 5:1-3; Rev. 12:11).
Love comes to us from many sources. We
must begin with “God is love” (1 John 4:16)
and “…love is of God” (1 John 4:7). There
is no greater definition of love, nor is there
a greater source of love than God. “We
love him because he first loved us” (1 John
4:19). If we want to live godly lives, we must
demonstrate godly love. We must also be
willing to share our love with many others
and in many circumstances. Godly love is
an attribute of holiness. God said “Ye shall
be holy: for I the Lord your God am holy”
(Lev. 19:2).
Jesus said, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy
God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul,
and with all thy mind. This is the first and
great commandment. And the second is like
unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thy
self ” (Matt. 22:37-39). If we apply these two
commandments to our daily walk of life, we
will find many opportunities to expand and
share our love.
Our love for God extends to our love for
Christ who is of God. Our love for Christ
can best be expressed by following His
example as portrayed in the Word of God.
Jesus emphasized the importance of being
faithful through obedience when He said “If
ye love me, keep my commandments” (John
14:15). He also said, “as I have loved you,
that ye also love one another” (John 13:34).
Part of loving God is to recognize that,
unworthy though we may be, God still
loves us and shows it in powerful ways. “For
God so loved the world that He gave His only
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on
Him should not perish, but have everlasting
life” (John 3:16). God’s love for us exceeds
our ability to comprehend it.
Our love for God will be evident
if we love God’s people. This is a
direct application of the second great
commandment. It was also emphasized by
Peter when he wrote that we should see that
“…ye have purified your souls in obeying the
truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love
of the brethren, see that ye love one another
with a pure heart fervently” (1 Pet. 1:22),
and “Love the brotherhood” (1 Pet. 2:17).
Additionally, our love for God is
expressed by our love for the church, the
bride of Christ. Each congregation is made
up of brothers, sisters, converts, friends
and children. How much we love them is
a reflection of how much we love God. We
know that some people are easier to love
than others. We also know that a chain is
Writings based on God’s Word
only as strong as its weakest link. If our love
for God is only as strong as our love for
the least of His people, perhaps the brother
or sister who is most difficult to love, how
strong is our love for God?
We also demonstrate love for God
through our love for our family. It is easy
to love everyone in our family when
everything is going well, but how do we
respond if our spouse or child frequently
disappoints us? If God only loved us as
much as we love our spouse or child at
the most difficult of times, would we
truly feel the love of God? God loves us
in spite of who we are and in spite of our
imperfections.
If the only requirement to be a part of
the faithful church would be to love our
Heavenly Father, His Son, the Holy Spirit,
our brotherhood and our family, that would
seem to be enough of a challenge. However,
to truly fulfill the requirement for godly
love, we must go much further.
We are to love our neighbor as our self
(Matt. 22:39), and although the word “love”
is not used in these scriptural references,
we are to love the fatherless and widows
(James 1:27), and the stranger (Matt.
25:35). To complete the definition, or
boundaries of biblical love, we must add
Christ’s exhortation to love our enemies
(Matt. 5:44). In order to apply the standards
which godly love sets for us, it is necessary
to examine our lives very carefully. We
must also examine the Scriptures carefully
to grasp what they teach us about love.
Jesus did not overlook sin (as evidenced by
His actions in the temple or His reaction to
those who thought themselves perfect), but
He never allowed His dissatisfaction with
sinful behavior to cause Him to lose sight of
His mission on this earth—to reach out to
everyone in love. We must do likewise.
There will be individuals and situations
that will try our love to the limit, but he
who is faithful until the end will find his
name in the Book of Life. If the faithful
church is defined by love, it must consist of
members whose lives are defined by love.
An editorial committee of elders prepares articles for this section of Silver Lining to address some special needs of our times.
Suggestions for subjects are welcome and can be sent to:
Silver Lining Editorials, 1523 County Road 400N, Congerville, IL 61729 or fellowshippromoter@gmail.com
January 2013
SILVER LINING
4
...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
A Growing Church
in St. Louis, Missouri
S
held every week. In addition to Bro.
Loren, Bro. Chris Wuethrich shares
the pulpit ministry. The church
family also enjoys visits from
other ministers through monthly
scheduled minister rotations. On
that weekend, a potluck dinner
and hymn sing are planned for the
church to attend. Bro. Kent Heimer,
from Taylor, MO, has oversight for
the church.
t. Louis is a small church that
desires to grow in number and
closeness to God, as they seek to
fulfill the mission of the Apostolic
Christian Church:
• Presenting the Gospel message
of salvation based on faith in the
shed blood of Jesus Christ and a
true repentance and conversion.
• Teaching and nurturing believers
toward a sanctified life and to
faithfulness by God's grace and
through His word.
• Preserving sound doctrine by
contending for the faith, and
• Offering loving, humble deeds of
service to fellow believers and all
mankind in the name of Christ. Opportunities for service
The church family is active in
In the beginning
spreading the gospel in their areas
On November 22, 1981, the of employment and with neighbors
“Gateway to the West,” became and friends, including supporting a
the site of an Apostolic Christian prison ministry, aftercare program
Church at the Harley Hotel in Earth and the children of incarcerated
City. In January of the next year, men and women. To nurture the
members began meeting at the Ben believers, they meet for Sunday and
Franklin Motel in St. Louis and Wednesday evening services, Bible
a schedule of visiting ministers studies, monthly potlucks and hymn
was established. In September singings.
There are numerous opportunities
1986, Bro. Loren Schrenk and their
family moved to the area. With the to serve the Lord through serving
arrival of more people in 1987, the others. These include working
frequency of services was increased through World Relief to support
to three times per month. In 1988, those in need, serving meals and
members expressed a desire for providing Bible teaching at a
their own church building and homeless shelter and participating in
efforts were made to obtain land at a Christian-based tutoring program
the present site. The first service in for immigrant children in the city.
the new church building was held
on March 10, 1992.
Challenges of
The church today
small church living
Proximity among the church
Seven families, seven singles, plus families poses a challenge with
11 children worship at the church on regular travel as much as an hour
a typical Sunday. Services are now as some families live in Missouri
www.acmission.org
and some in Illinois. Many of
the families are as much as one
hour apart. Families with small
children receive babysitting help
from others during the day or
evening as needed. The church
has few intergenerational families.
As a result, people “go home” for
holidays and other family events,
leaving fewer people in the church.
Consider a move
If you have a heart to be an
ambassador for Christ and help
fulfill the desire of a small church to
grow in number and assist them with
their challenges, please prayerfully
consider a visit or move to the St.
Louis area. The city center of St.
Louis is approximately 25 miles
from church.
The city has a good economy with
many job opportunities, especially in
the areas of healthcare, life science
research and education. Numerous
and interesting sightseeing options
abound. Lambert International
Airport is approximately 18 miles
from the church.
Information to visit
Services are held at 10:30 am and
12:30 pm (CST/CDT) on Sunday.
Wednesday evening services are
held at the church at 7:30 pm on the
second Wednesday of the month.
Bible Studies are held the other
Wednesday evenings in the homes
of the church families. Please call
to find out more details.
The church is located at 3333
Upper Bottom Road in St. Charles,
MO. If you plan to visit, please
contact one of the ministers to
let them know you are coming
for planning purposes and for
confirmation of service times.
January 2013
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
Assistance for Our
Smaller Churches
F
or several years the Small
Church Support Committee
has been seeking ways to help our
small congregations deal with the
challenges unique to gatherings
of less than 30 members. Having
enough people to fill all of the
various roles needed to conduct
a normal Sunday worship service
is a concern foreign to those in
larger churches. Ministers, Sunday
school teachers, song leaders and
sound system operators are a few
of the roles that need to be filled.
In addition, there are those who
prepare the lunch and support the
song service. These are just the
needs on a normal Sunday.
Beyond that, there is the daily
need to reach out to individuals
within the community as Christ’s
ambassadors investing time and
sharing His love with the lost. On
the practical side, there is a need for
someone to maintain the facilities.
When there are so few to fill all of
the necessary roles it can become a
burden to those involved.
Winter work projects
During recent World Relief winter
work projects in Athens, Alabama;
Bastrop, Texas and Nashville,
Tennessee an effort has been
made to help the small church
by providing volunteer labor for
maintenance projects at their
facilities. In Nashville, volunteers
reshingled the church roof and
made repairs to a section of floor
joists under the sanctuary. An old
farm building on the site of the
Bastrop church was transformed
into a dormitory for use during the
work project with the intent that it
would serve as a Fellowship Hall/
World Relief project area following
the work team’s use. Some electrical
upgrades were made to the existing
service in the kitchen area as well.
During this year’s winter work
project a variety of projects will
be undertaken by volunteers at the
Athens church facilities and for
area residents who have need. Last
year, a group of volunteers took on
a project to provide better drainage
around the church and alleviate
flooding of the preschool located
in the church basement. Their
efforts were confirmed when upon
completion of the work, the skies
opened up with a torrent of rain and
there was no flooding.
New opportunities
Recently, in joint meetings with
members of the Small Church
Support Committee and the USA
Committee of World Relief,
opportunities have been identified
that could benefit our small
churches. This will involve sending
small work teams of six to ten
volunteers to our small churches
where a need has been identified. In
some situations, a work team may
assist the small church in reaching
out to needy individuals within the
community, aiding the small church
in their desire to be witnesses of
Christ’s love by serving others.
Volunteers with specific skills
relating to the work to be done
will make up the team. A World
Relief tool trailer along with any
special equipment needed for the
project will be brought to the site.
Depending on the specific location,
volunteers may be housed by the
local church family or, if needed,
other arrangements will be made.
In most cases projects would be
www.acworldrelief.org
completed within a week’s time.
As we have therefore opportunity,
let us do good unto all men,
especially unto them who are of
the household of faith. Gal 6:10
Mutual benefits
We trust this opportunity will be
a blessing in numerous ways. The
maintenance needs of the small
church will be met. This will be an
opportunity for the small church
family to fellowship with those who
come to work, which will result
in future times of reuniting and
encouraging one another.
Through this experience the Lord
may move a heart to relocate to the
area of the small church and thus
help it to grow. Potentially, the love
of the brethren will continue to draw
the lost. At the very least, those
who came to help will leave with
a greater awareness of the needs of
a small church family and will be
able to lift them up in prayer to our
Heavenly Father.
The Small Church Support
Committee will be identifying needs
in the various small congregations.
Work projects will be coordinated
through the USA Committee and the
small church family. Opportunities
to participate on a work team will
be announced through the World
Relief email list. You can sign up
for emails on the home page of the
website. www.acworldrelief.org
These projects will be scheduled
from April through December,
which is outside of the winter
work project time frame. Please
pray that these projects will be
an encouragement to our small
churches, that the message of
salvation will reach the lost in
these communities and that all who
participate will be blessed.
6
Apostolic Christian Home
for the Handicapped
achh.org
As we look forward to a new year
with new beginnings, opportunities
and challenges, my mind goes back
to a time when I was challenged to
do three things at the beginning of
a new year. The three things can be
summarized as:
1. What has changed for the better?
Continue.
2. What has changed for the worse?
Correct.
3. What has not changed? Consider.
As we go through life everyone
faces changes; here at the Home,
we are also facing changes and new
challenges every day. Hopefully, at
the end of the day or year we can
look back and see how God has
shown His hand at work through
both provision and protection.
What has changed for the better?
With the State of Illinois being
in the worst financial position in
history, bills stacking high, debt
out of control, and no budget in
place, we have seen that God has
a different economic system that
doesn’t follow human reasoning. We
have learned at a deeper level how
to trust Him for His provision in
meeting the financial needs of the
Agency. We will continue to trust
that God will move the hearts of His
people in meeting the needs of those
who cannot care for themselves.
What has changed for the worse?
There are times we get consumed
with State surveyors, auditors,
regulations, etc. While each of these
have their purpose in holding us
accountable to families, funding
sources, and benefactors, they
can also distract us from what we
have been called to do. We have
been called to “Serve according to
His purposes…” in meeting the
needs of each of the residents of
SILVER LINING
the Home. May God give us the
wisdom to have the proper balance
[St. Mt. 23:23 “… Ye… have omitted
the weightier matters of the law,
judgment, mercy, and faith: these
ought ye to have done, and not to
leave the other undone.”] between
meeting the standards of God in
doing what we know to be right,
while also meeting regulatory
standards.
What has not changed? As we
consider what has not changed,
we are thankful that some of these
have not. We have continued to
get quality employees who have
a heart for meeting the needs of
the residents in a respectful and
caring way. We have a plethora
of volunteers who have made
themselves available to do many
of the projects that simply could
not get done without their support.
We continue to be thankful for
the amount of dedicated prayer
warriors who pray for protection
and provision on behalf of the
Agency and the individual residents.
We continue to see God working
in both small and big ways. We are
thankful for an unchanging God
who continues to share His blessings
on us.
GATEWAY WOODS
APOSTOLIC CHRISTIAN
CHILDREN’S HOME
Clint Plattner—
Home-Based Worker
I continue to feel blessed as a
member of the Gateway Woods
team. As expressed so often before,
it is common that the reason for
becoming a part of the team at
Gateway Woods begins with a
desire to be of some assistance to
others. In the process of trying to
assist others, we end up discovering
more about ourselves. Sometimes,
more than what we care to learn.
January 2013
Interacting with others concerning
the challenges they are dealing with
has a way of bringing us face-toface with our own humanity. It can
make one wonder if God’s primary
purpose of placing us in certain
situations has more to do with
teaching us about ourselves than
helping others. I suppose in reality,
both are true. It is remarkable that
there is no waste in God’s economy!
I have found this to be true as a
home-based worker meeting with
families in their homes throughout
the community. The experience has
deepened my appreciation for the
relevancy and sufficiency of God’s
Word as it relates to the issues of
life. Again and again, I have been
brought face-to-face with the reality
of our deep need for the Gospel.
All of our needs and desires are so
similar and fulfilled so beautifully in
the truth of the Gospel. This truth
is confirmed by the beauty created
in living out God’s commands
under the influence of His Holy
Spirit. God, grant us grace to always
recognize our need for help.
News:
We are searching for a Summer
Volunteer Coordinator and a Top
Quality Coordinator. Please see
the notices in The Silver Lining or
email Bro. Ryan Donaghy at ryan.
donaghy@gatewaywoods.org for
more information. This is a great
opportunity to impact the lives
of the children on our campus!
As one former resident put it, “It
really makes a huge difference to
[residents] when volunteers come
out. It’s great when they work with
us and play Frisbee and stuff. We
notice.”
We are also searching for our
Summer Education Intern. Please
see the notice in The Silver Lining
or email Bro. Adam McAfee at
adam.mcafee@gatewaywoods.
January 2013
org for more information. This
is a great opportunity to gain
some experience working in an
educational environment while
impacting our residents!
It was a sad day for us as we said
farewell to Bro. Andrew Gerber,
our Development Director. Bro.
Andrew feels called to pursue other
opportunities in Illinois. We are
thankful for his years of service in
several different positions and wish
him the best as he moves forward.
We are very excited to announce
that Bro. Bruce Drayer has been
hired as our new Development
Director! Bro. Bruce and his wife,
Sis. Heather, have decided to
move on from nearly 10 years as
houseparents. Their leadership and
passion as part of our Pregnant Teen
and Teen Mom Program will surely
be missed, though we are thankful
that we will still have them around
campus in a new role!
Gateway Woods welcomed five
new residents to campus this past
month. Please pray with us as
they become accustomed to their
new homes. It can be a difficult
adjustment for new residents as
they discover a very different living
situation than they have experienced
before. We are very excited to
work with these new children and
their families. Also, please keep
the teachers, houseparents and
counselors of these children in your
prayers.
We are grateful to God for
providing us with wonderful
Staff. We currently have two
career positions available. We
have an opening for an Assistant
Houseparent and Foster Care
Program Manager. For more
information, please see the notice
in this month’s edition of The
Silver Lining or visit the Career
Opportunities page on our website
SILVER LINING
at www.gatewaywoods.org/
supporters/career-opportunities.
We trust that God will continue to
provide qualified, mature brothers
and sisters who will serve Him in
a ministry that is ‘Turning Lives
Around’. Perhaps this includes you!
You are an important advocate
to help us spread the word about
God’s work at Gateway Woods.
Please continue to lift us up in
prayer, check our website www.
gatewaywoods.org and our
Facebook page at facebook.com/
gatewaywoods often for updates,
and make sure that you are on our
mailing list. In an effort to be as
efficient as possible we are gathering
as many email addresses as we can
for our Restoring Hope. Please
send a quick message to mail@
gatewaywoods.org.
APOSTOLIC CHRISTIAN
PRESCHOOL
Athens, AL
Susan Koch
The themes for December were
Christmas and practicing for our
school’s Christmas Program. Since
the weather is turning colder
(somewhat), we are staying inside
more throughout the day. It’s always
interesting finding ways to allow
students to expend energy without
being rambunctious. The students
have been busy learning songs
for their Christmas Program. Ms.
Kalla’s 4 and 5 year-olds are also
narrating the Christmas story in
between songs. We chose to center
our Christmas around praising
God and as such have memorized
the following verse, “Glory to God
in the highest, and on earth peace,
good will toward men” (Luke 2:14).
After our program, the students
were able to eat a Christmas snack
and open presents that they found
for each other. It’s so neat to see the
7
delight on a child’s face when he/
she is thanked for a present. That
delight is God-inspired and I believe
gives us a taste of how He feels when
someone accepts His Gift.
Alabama, Athens
Roger and Becky Roberts
We have been blessed again this
month. Our children and young
members brought to us the story
of Christmas on December 9.
Following services, we shared a
Christmas potluck lunch. Also, to
share what we have been given,
we Christmas-caroled the first two
Wednesday nights.
Those who traveled to bring
God’s Word this month were: Bro.
Matthew Rassi (Chicago,IL), Sis.
Bridget and family; and Bro. Greg
Lehman (Wolcott, IN), Sis. Mary
Beth and family.
We are continuing to keep Frances
Ray in our prayers.
When traveling to the Fellowship
area using a GPS, use Frankewing as
the final destination. Once you turn
off Hwy 64 the Fellowship area is
the first drive on the left.
If you are traveling through the
area this winter, we would love
your fellowship! Please either call
or email us ahead of time so we can
make plans. Bro. Roger & Sis. Becky
Roberts (931) 309-9335 mrpipes@
afo.net
Arizona, Phoenix
Heather Hinrichsen
Bro. Jon and Sis. Amy Gerst gave
a presentation on their work in
Ethiopia on December 4 and we
were blessed to see the Lord’s work
being done in all nations.
Sis. Nancy Belsely has relocated
from Phoenix to Baker Hill, AL
for employment. We pray God’s
blessings for her new job and home.
We pray for Bro. Al Yackley
8
(Sis. Joyce) and Sis. Deanna Beyer
(Bro. Clarence), who have both
undergone medical procedures and
have asked for our prayers.
In the wake of the elementary
school shooting in Newtown, CT,
I was reminded to pray for all
those in our congregations and our
communities who have lost loved
ones, young and old. One verse has
brought me comfort over the years.
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would, until the Lord answers him
and says that he came three times.
“For I was the beggar with bruised
cold feet; I was the woman you gave
something to eat; And I was the child
on the homeless street. Three times I
knocked; three times I came in, And
each time I found the warmth of a
friend. Of all the gifts, love is the best;
I was honored to be your Christmas
guest.” May we display the worth of
Jesus Christ for others to see and
cherish. Faith working thru love!
January 2013
we hear of all the tragedies around
the world and in our nation, we are
feeling very grateful and blessed in
our little southwest corner. We pray
we continue to do the work that
has been set before us here in our
community.
A blessed New Year to you all!
California, Altadena
Winter has finally descended upon
Southern California. We have been
“And God shall wipe away all tears
experiencing the rain and cold that
from their eyes; and there shall be
so rarely is part of our lives here.
no more death, neither sorrow, nor
Arizona, Tucson
The seasonal change is long overdue,
crying, neither shall there be any
Lisa Knapp
and will be short-lived in all
more pain: for the former things are
Elder Bro. Ben Wiegand spent
likelihood. It is a good reminder to
passed away.” (Rev. 21:4)
the first weekend of December in
us of the changes that we experience
Tucson. He was here to read the
in the seasons of our lives.
ARIZONA, PRESCOTT
memorandum. We certainly enjoyed
We were blessed with visiting
Denise Steidinger
his visit, as we always do. We are
minister, Bro. Ken Wuethrich (Sis.
once again thankful for his safe
Lyn) from Indianapolis. We were
We were visited by the following
return home. God is so faithful to
also blessed with the visit of Bro. Jon
ministers this past month: Bros.
us.
and Sis. Amy Gerst as they shared
Curt Kaufman (Sis. Caroline,
We have thoroughly enjoyed
with us the details regarding their
Tucson, AZ), Brad Gudeman (Sis.
our annual Christmas activities:
upcoming ministry trip to Ethiopia.
Teresa, Bradford, IL), Tim Ramsier
Christmas Caroling and the
Our Sunday School brought to
(Sis. Jonell, Rittman, OH), Keith
Sunday School Christmas Program. us a celebration of the Christ-child.
Hinrichsen (Sis. Tammy, Phoenix,
The program took us through the
AZ) and Elder Bro. Jon Kokanovich We were delighted that our
unseasonably warm weather went
Christ-child’s birth and His ultimate
(Sis. Nancy, Phoenix, AZ). Thanks
away and the weather became a
identity as King of our lives! We
for coming to share God’s Word.
little more “Christmassy”, relatively
rejoice at the light that shines
The ladies and children enjoyed
speaking of course! Many thanks
through our children and, in light of
a delicious brunch and Christmas
to Bro. Chris and Sis. Sara Hattan
recent events, hold them nearer and
party at Sis. JaNon Furrer’s home.
dearer to our hearts as one of God’s
The children decorated gingerbread for their work organizing both
evenings and to Sis. Young Bauer.
richest gifts.
houses with all sorts of different
The teachers had a special challenge
Our fellowship joined together
candies and the ladies had a cookie
with new children attending Sunday in prayer for many during this past
exchange.
School in the weeks preceding
month. Included in our prayers
Our 13 Sunday School children
the program and with children
were Les Cser, the son of Bro. Laszlo
did a marvelous job for the
who are unfamiliar with most of
and Sis. Maria Cser who recently
Christmas program, singing six
the Christmas carols our children
suffered from a stroke. We continue
songs and each child reciting a part
of the poem “Uninvited Guest”. The usually sing. As my children’s grade to pray for Bro. Laszlo and Sis.
Maria Cser; Sis. Lydia Lira; and
poem is about a man named Conrad school principal used to say, “We’re
practicing the lifeskill of flexibility!”. Bro. Clarence Graf, rejoicing at the
that has a dream that the Lord is
Good job everyone.
improvements to Bro. Clarence’s
coming to his house on Christmas,
We are starting to see our winter
recent improvements. We are also in
but instead he entertains a poor
visitors which is always fun and
prayer for Bro. Bob Crockett as he
beggar, a lost child and an elderly
exciting. Our little church looks
recuperates from pneumonia. We
lady. Conrad is confused why the
different in the winter months. As
pray for recovery from illness and
Lord didn’t come as he said he
January 2013
poor health for each of these, and
that they will be blessed with the
touch of God’s healing hands.
California, San Diego
Janelle Brewer
We are truly privileged and
thankful to welcome a new sister
into the body of Christ! It was so
encouraging to hear the testimony
and witness the baptism of Sis.
Lizzie Fulop (Bro. Dennis & Sis. Joy)
on December 1 & 2. We continue
to lift her up in prayer. We thank
the many visitors that were with
us for this joyous occasion. We
are thankful that Elder Bro. John
Wiegand (Sis. Jane, Silverton, OR)
was able to come assist in this work.
“This new being now arises, Having
died with Christ before; What in
Adam’s fall had perished Christ the
Saviour did restore. Dearest child,
we bid thee welcome in our blessed
brotherhood; From the wild tree thou
art grafted On this holy tree and
root.” (Zions Harp #34, v. 2)
This month we were also blessed
by the visits from ministering Bro.
Keith Hinrichsen (Sis. Tammy,
Phoenix, AZ), Bro. Joe Klotzle (Sis.
Sue, Altadena, CA), and Bro. Justin
Moser (Sis. Robin, Altadena, CA).
We appreciate their willingness to
bring forth God’s Word.
Our Sunday School students
recently told the Christmas story
through song & verse. It brings such
joy to hear the same news that the
Angels proclaimed so many years
ago!
We remember those in our
congregation who have had health
concerns lately. We lift up Bro. Rory
Strahm, Sis. Yasmin Koehl, & Sis.
Linde Zimmer to our great God
and pray that He may be near them
during this time.
If anyone is vacationing in the
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Palm Springs/Palm Desert area this
winter, please feel free to contact
Bro. Doug & Sis. Janelle Brewer at
djbrewer2003@gmail.com or (309)
256-9606 so that we can have an
opportunity to fellowship together
on Wednesday evening while you
are staying in the area.
CANADA, KITCHENER,
ONTARIO
Kim Leman
“I the LORD have called thee in
righteousness, and will hold thine
hand, and will keep thee, and give
thee for a covenant of the people, for
a light of the Gentiles; To open the
blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners
from the prison, and them that sit
in darkness out of the prison house.”
(Isaiah 42:6,7)
We thank our visiting ministers
and their wives who came to serve
us God’s Word this month. They
were Bros. Warren Schlatter (Sis.
Cindy, Junction, OH) and John
Steiner (Sis. Carol, Oakville, IA).
May the Lord bless them for giving
of their time and talents.
Our Sunday School presented
us with a wonderful Christmas
program. The children learned
some new songs, which they sang
beautifully in praise to our God.
We enjoyed gathering for an allchurch Christmas dinner before the
program.
We were also blessed to go
carolling and deliver food baskets to
some local needy people. It is truly
a blessing to share what God has
given us with those in need. May the
Lord bless us all with a giving spirit
throughout the entire year.
Colorado, Denver
Lily Zarkovacki
“Away in a manger, No crib for a
bed, The little Lord Jesus Laid down
9
His sweet head; The stars in the sky
Looked down where He lay, The
little Lord Jesus, Asleep on the hay.”
(Hymns of Zion #38) During the Christmas season, we
have been blessed and filled with
joy as we remember the miracle
of Christ’s birth. On December 8
our church held our annual Sunday
School Christmas program. We
thank the teachers and parents who
worked with their children to make
it a blessing to all that came.
We would like to welcome Bro. Jay
Wettstein from Gridley, IL as he will
be here for schooling over the next
year.
As another year comes to a close,
let us praise Him, and do our part to
further His Kingdom.
“Another year of service, of witnesses
for Thy love; Another year of training,
For holier work above. Amen”
(Hymns of Zion #150 vs. 4
Connecticut, Rockville
Sheila Gerber
Lauren Goric
“Lo, children are an heritage of the
Lord: and the fruit of the womb is
His reward.” (Psalm 127:3)
Two couples have been blessed
recently with new babies in
their homes. Mark and Carolyn
Lagassie, as well as sisters, Emily
and Madison, welcomed precious
Mason Lawrence on November
29. Grandparents are Ken and
Sis. Jan Boynton. Jesse and Julie
Brennan have another daughter
to love as their new baby, Autumn
Elizabeth, joined her big sister
Alivia on November 7. Autumn’s
grandparents are Bro. Dean and Sis
Miriam Reutter.
“Come, come, sweet rest, us from
distress, from cross and sorrow to
10
deliver. Eternity where we shall be,
United with eternal joys forever.”
(Zion’s Harp # 147)
It is with both sadness and
thankfulness that our church
mourns the loss of our dear, beloved
Bro. Russell Bahler. We are thankful
that his victory has been won and
that he now can see the glories of
Heaven. Our thoughts and prayers
will continue to be with Sis. Eunice,
Sis. Marge, and Sis Marilyn Bahler,
as well as Russ’ extended family.
Our church continues to pray for
Sis. Eloise Webb (Bro. Clint - dec.)
and Sis. Verona Schneider (Bro.
Sonny) who have been nursing
home patients in this past month.
We look forward to the time when
they can worship with us once
again.
District of Columbia,
Washington
Henrietta Meyer
Our caretakers for November
were Bro. Jim and Sis. Juanita
Walter (Fairbury, IL). Our caretaker
schedule is booked for 2013, except
for the month of August. We are
currently taking reservations for
2014. If you feel led to support one
of our small churches, this 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 minsters this month were
Bro. Steve Stiglitz (Sis. Jane, Leo,
IN), Bro. Alan Schambach (Sis.
Sarah, Remington, IN), Bro. Jesse
Bedolla (Sis. Bonnie, Detroit, MI),
and Bro. Ed Sauder (Roanoke, IL).
Other visitors this month were from
Rittman, OH; Fairbury and Eureka,
IL; Prescott, AZ and Oakville, IA.
A young woman from the
greater Washington, DC area is
working in the Peoria area. She
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noticed the Peoria church, but her
work schedule prevents her from
attending services. She researched
the church on the internet and
discovered our local congregation.
While visiting her family for
Thanksgiving she took two Metro
trains, at least one bus and walked
several blocks to attend our services.
When she moves back to this area
she says she plans on attending
again.
If you are planning to visit
Washington, D.C. area for vacation
or business, 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. Lauderdale
Renee Mangold
We were grateful to have visiting
ministers this past month: Bro.
Randy Gudeman (Sis. Becky,
Francesville, IN), Bro. Nelson
Beer (Sis. Minnie, Milford, IN),
Bro. Warren Zahner (Sis. Bonnie,
Rockville, CT). We are thankful
for their service and pray that God
would give them a blessing.
We had our annual Christmas
caroling and potluck following at
the fellowship hall. It’s a tradition
that never fails to bring our focus on
the true meaning of Christmas and
the celebration of Christ’s birth.
Congratulations to Heather and
DJ Reed (Bro. Mike and Sis. Renee
Mangold) on the birth of a daughter,
Lucille Jean Reed. We pray for a
blessing on their growing family.
Florida, north ft. Myers
Victor Beer
What love, grace, joy and charity
goes on during this season and we
know the reason why.
“For unto us is born this day in
January 2013
the city of David a Savior, which is
Christ the Lord. (Luke 3:11)
That whosever believeth in HIM
should not perish, but (may in Him)
have eternal life.” (John 3:15)
Much blessing has been ours due
to the church services, caroling,
tending Salvation Army kettles,
and serving others in one way or
another. Celebrating family ties
and giving thanks for our precious
heritage is all part of honoring our
Lord Jesus Christ as well. Just being
thankful for all God has done for us,
and is doing for us, ought to make
us all thankful and wondering why
He blesses so much.
During this last month we were
greatly blessed by visiting ministers.
They were Bro. Jon Zeller, (Sis.
Christy, Morton, IL) and Bro. Ron
Koehl (Sis. Carol, Sarasota, IL). We
pray God’s rich blessings on them
and their families.
Bro. Marvin and Sis. Rhea
Steffen has been busy moving
their daughter, Linsey, to college
in Atlanta. She was in our Sunday
school for some time. We wish
her God’s continued blessings as
she reaches out to be of Christian
service to others.
We are continually enjoying our
two young ladies and their children
of THE NEW BEGINNINGS, which
Sis. Mary and Bro. Bill Masters have
in their care.
FLORIDA, SARASOTA
Kim Ott
“Then Peter said unto them, Repent,
and be baptized every one of you
in the name of Jesus Christ for the
remission of sins, and ye shall receive
the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:38)
We rejoice with Sis. Lucy Buser
(Bro. Ernie) as she has repented
January 2013
for her sins and has been baptized.
Even though our prayers are with
Sis. Lucy as she is under the care of
hospice while battling cancer, we
know that she can rest in peace with
the knowledge that she has made
her life right with God through her
faith in the blood of our Lord Jesus
Christ. We are thankful for our visiting
ministers this month: Bro.
Gerald Wagenbach (Sis. Bonnie,
Oakville, IA), Bro. Matthew Rassi
(Sis. Bridget, Chicago, IL), Bro.
Nelson Beer (Sis. Minnie, Milford,
IN), Bro. Mark Steiner (Sis. Sue,
Smithville, OH), and Bro. Mike
Hohulin (Sis. Faye, Fort Lauderdale,
FL). We appreciate their willingness
to serve us in the ministry of God’s
Holy Word. May their lives be
blessed for sharing with us of their
time, efforts, and talents.
Many from our congregation
enjoyed a night of fellowship and
service together this month when
an organized effort was made to
make applesauce for all to enjoy, but
especially for those who have been
at home recovering from surgery,
illnesses or currently unable to
join us in our assembly. What a
blessing to work beside each other
with not only the common goal
of making applesauce, but with
the deeper knowledge that we are
working in service for others in the
name of Jesus. It is our hope that all
who joined in this effort would be
blessed and continue in whatever
act of giving God would direct for
their life.
As another Christmas season
comes upon us, we think fondly
of the birth of the baby Jesus. Our
Sunday School class provided us
with a beautiful program centered
around the theme, “Love Came
Down at Christmas”. What a joy
to hear all of the children’s voices
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sing and recite the most beautiful
story of Jesus’ birth. With amazing
wonder we reflect on how the King
of the world, who deserved the very
best, was born in a lowly manger.
It was such a humble beginning
for the One who came to save the
world. But the humility of this birth
reminds us that Jesus Christ came
for all of us and not only a select
few. We are ever so grateful that
the hope of salvation extends to
everyone today around the world.
GEORGIA, ATLANTA
We rejoice with Bro. Linn and
Sis. Brenda Stoller as they praise
God for the birth for their third
grandchild. Precious Sophia
Simone was born to Bro. Brent
and Sis. Staci Rocke, who live in
Temple, TX. Sophia was welcomed
home by her big brother, Malachi.
Sophia’s paternal grandparents are
Bro. Dennis and Sis. Eva Rocke
(Roanoke, IL). Praise to God for
giving us the gift of sweet little ones!
With our church lunchroom
full of empty shoeboxes and small
items to fill them, many from our
congregation gathered together
to assemble Operation Christmas
Child shoeboxes. In just a short time
of teamwork, each shoebox was full
and ready to be sent on its journey
to a country across the ocean, into
the hands of a little child! It is a
blessing to have this avenue to share
a small gift with children we would
likely never meet on earth.
On a beautiful December
Sunday, Bro. Ben Lindberg and
Sis. Anneliese Hoerr became one
in Christ Jesus! Their wedding was
held in Taylor, MO, where they now
live. The blessing of their parents,
Bro. Rich and Sis. Julie Lindberg
and Bro. Jack and Sis. Wanda Hoerr
(Phoenix, AZ), rested on the day
of joy in God’s goodness! May they
11
continue to grow in the love of our
Heavenly Father and the joy of
serving Him together.
We would like to thank Elder
Bro. Andy and Sis. Roberta Stoller
for traveling from Smithville,
Ohio, to Atlanta and serving our
congregation! Thank you, Elder Bro.
Andy, for joining Elder Bro. Tom in
the reading of the Memorandum.
We appreciate your willingness to
travel and give of yourself.
We would also like to thank Bro.
John Lehman (Wolcott, IN) for
his joy in coming to share in the
ministering of the Word of God.
May the Lord reward you and your
dear family with heavenly blessings.
You were an inspiration to us!
“Grace be to you, and peace, from
God our Father, and from the Lord
Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and
Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who
hath blessed us with all spiritual
blessings in heavenly places in Christ;
According as He hath chosen us in
Him before the foundation of the
world, that we should be holy and
without blame before Him in love…”
(Ephesians 1:2-4)
Bro. Tim Drayer and his wife, Sis.
Gwen, traveled from Bluffton North,
IN, to minister to us. Thank you so
much. We appreciate your readiness
to speak God’s word!
“…they shall call his name
Emmanuel, which being interpreted
is, God with us.” (Matthew 1:23)
The Sunday School students
gathered to present the 2012
Christmas program. Many recited
verses and together raised their
voices in song! It was a blessing to
hear the story retold, to pause and
consider the wonder of God’s love.
Each part of the program spoke of
Jesus Christ, our Savior, who is God
come to live among us!
12
“If God be for us, who can be against
us?” (Romans 8:31)
We welcome Sis. Nancy Belsley
to our Atlanta church family! She
recently moved from Phoenix, AZ.
This December, our prayers were
raised to heaven on behalf of Bro.
Rich Aberle, as he underwent back
surgery. We praise God for His
promise to be with us, providing
grace and strength, through every
journey. God with us, we need not
fear!
ILLINOIS, BELVIDERE
Doreen Moser
Shayla Steffen
Although the Christmas Season
will be past when you read this, all
of our Belvidere activities for this
month were centered on this special
time of year.
“How silently, how silently The
wondrous gift is giv’n! So God
imparts to human hearts The
blessings of His Heav’n. No ear may
hear His coming; But in this world
of sin, Where meek souls will receive
Him still, The dear Christ enters in.”
(Hymns of Zion # 37)
The Word was imparted to
us through Bro. Gary Anliker
(Sis. Edie, Elgin, IL) of the many
blessings He has given us. Our
prayer is that Bro. Gary was blessed
for lending himself and that souls
were able to receive the Word and
apply it to their lives.
“The blessed story of the Christ,
The babe of Bethlehem Is worthy of
our song and praise, and stirs the
hearts of men. The fullness of God’s
love divine, surrounds the Christ so
mild Alas how many only know the
Saviour as a child.”
(Hymns of Zion # 36)
The blessed story of the Christ was
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shared through song and praise by
our Sunday school for our annual
Christmas program. The fullness
of God’s love surrounded us from
the verses of the innocent young
children and the words that the
older ones sang. We pray that it
was not in vain for those who were
among us who didn’t know the
Saviour.
“The first Noel the angel did say Was
to certain poor shepherds in fields
as they lay; In fields where they
lay keeping their sheep, On a cold
winter’s night that was so deep, Noel,
Noel, Noel, Noel, Born is the King of
Israel.” (Hymns of Zion #43)
As the angel’s sang a noel to the
shepherds that quiet night our small
Belvidere church attempted to sing
a noel during our annual Christmas
caroling. It is such a blessing to see
the residents enjoy listening to the
songs, but much more when they
join in and sing with us with a smile
on their face.
January 2013
Christian Fleming, son of Evan and
Rachel Fleming; Sis. Connie Mueller
welcomed Ayden Ray Mueller son
of Daniel and Ashley Mueller; Bro.
Ron and Sis. Ellen Farney welcomed
Kendal Nicole Farney, daughter
of Kale and Heather Farney; and
Bro. Steve and Sis. Margie Sauder
welcomed William Takashi Sauder,
son of Steven and Lauren Sauder.
We will miss Sis. Tami Inoue as
she is moving to Chicago. We wish
her well in her new endeavors and
hope she comes back to visit us
often.
Visiting ministers this month were
Bro. Tim Hohulin (Roanoke, IL)
and Bro. Seth Gerber (Magdalena,
MX). We thank them for their
service.
ILLINOIS, BRADFORD
Sandi Joos
Roseann Stahl
We are thankful for the
opportunities to come together
as a body to share the blessings
of the brotherhood. December 7
Illinois, Bloomingtonwas all-church Christmas caroling.
Normal
The message of Christ’s birth was
Shelley Steffen
shared in song with many. Then on
Gina Hodel
December 16, our Sunday School
The past month was filled with
shared the story that never grows
activities in preparation of the
old. It is encouraging to see the
Christmas Season. We enjoyed the
effort of the children to glorify God.
opportunity to attend Christmas
We welcomed a new lamb into the
Caroling, the Choir Christmas
fold this past month. Sis. Jamie Joos
Concert, and the Sunday School
(Bro. Ralph and Sis. Jenny) shared
Christmas Program. What a blessing her testimony with the church
to hear the children minister to us
and was baptized. We appreciated
through song.
Elder Bro. Steve Sauder (Sis. Mary,
Our love and sympathy are
Tremont, IL) for his willingness to
extended to Sis. Carol (Bro. Dale)
assist Bro. Bruce and serve us on
Strassheim on the loss of her father, the pulpit on Sunday. Our thanks
Bro. Cleo Rinkenberger of Peoria,
and gratitude also go to Bro. Doug
IL.
Brewer (Sis. Janelle, San Diego, CA)
Several from our congregation
and Bro. Gary Anliker (Sis. Edith,
have recently welcomed new
Elgin, IL) for ministering the Word.
grandchildren. Bro. Curt and Sis.
Our hearts go out to Sis. Lottie
Elma Fleming welcomed Archer
Stisser (Bro. Loris) in the passing
January 2013
of her sister, Ruby Snyder. May the
comfort of the Lord be felt at this
time of loss.
Brenna Rose was welcomed on
December 14 by Bro. Lucas and Sis.
Bethany Young and her siblings:
Noah, Ruth, Joanna, and Jacob.
Grandparents of Brenna are Bro.
Mo and Sis. Pat Young (Elgin, IL)
and Bro. Greg and Sis. Carla Rassi
(Chicago, IL)
“Another year is dawning, Dear
Master, let it be, in working or in
waiting, another year with Thee.”
(Hymns of Zion #150)
Illinois, Champaign
Sarah Drake
Greetings and Merry Christmas
from Champaign-Urbana! On
December 16, we enjoyed the
annual Christmas program
presented by our wonderful and
talented Sunday School students.
The theme this year was “Prophecy
Fulfilled: Foretelling the Birth
of Jesus”. The students outlined
Old Testament prophecies that
foretold the time, place, and
manner of Christ’s birth. Following
the program, the congregation
Christmas caroled around the
community and returned to church
for a delicious chili supper. Many
thanks to everyone who organized,
helped, and/or participated in the
day’s events.
We are thankful for our visiting
ministers this month, including
Bro. Randy Mogler (Sis. Evie,
Washington, IL), Bro. Frank Sauder
(Sis. Kathy, Roanoke, IL), and Bro.
John Hartman (Sis. Rosemary,
Fairbury, IL). Thank you for your
service.
In the nearly 50-year history of
the Champaign-Urbana church,
we have never before had a couple
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born, raised, baptized and married
here. Believing that it is God’s will
for their lives, we are pleased to
announce the engagement of Bro.
Joel Furrer (son of Bro. Sam and
Sis. Pam Furrer) and Sis. Laura
Tucker (daughter of John and Mary
Tucker). They plan to be married
on June 9. We wish them the Lord’s
richest blessings. ILLINOIS, CHICAGO
Rachel Meyer
Greetings from Chicago. We
thank ministering Bro. John Grimm
from Columbus, OH, for sharing
God’s Word with us this past month.
As we enter the holiday season,
we think of our loved ones who are
struggling with issues of health.
Let us continue to pray for our
Retired Elder Bro. Dale Eisenmann
as his treatments continue. God is
faithful. We are thankful Bro. Chuck
Stoller is home and recovering. Sis.
Christine Eckel’s daughter, Janet,
continues receiving chemotherapy
treatments. May each feel the
nearness of Christ and the love of
our church family.
We have enjoyed having Bro. Evan
Sinn from Silverton, OR, with us
for the last few months as his work
brought him to Chicago. He has
been a blessing and we pray God
will be with him as he moves on to
Florida for his next post of work.
December 8 was our traditional
Christmas caroling, Dinner, and
Christmas Program. The entire day
was a blessing and we thank each
one who had a part in the planning
and execution of the festivities. A
special thank-you goes out to the
Sunday School who shared their
program entitled, “God’s Surprising
Gifts.”
A special gift arrived in the form
of a baby girl to Bro. Shayne and
Sis. Emily Fehr. Sweet Madelyn Mae
13
Fehr was born December 18 and
was welcomed by brother Brady.
May God be with this dear family.
Another gift arrived in the form
of a new granddaughter to our Bro.
Greg and Sis. Carla Rassi. Brenna
Rose Young was born December
14 to Bro. Lucas and Sis. Bethany
Young of Bradford, IL and siblings
Noah, Ruth, Joanna, and Jacob.
Each one is a blessing.
I have been thinking of our
Heavenly home lately, especially
when making calls on my cell
phone. It is voice activated so all I
need do is say the name of person
I am calling and whether I wish to
call their home, mobile, or work
number. So I say, for example, “Call
Gloria home,” or, “Call Wayne
home.”
It reminds me that one day each
of us will be called home, whether
through death or the return of
Christ. Praise God! He is faithful to
provide eternal rest in Heaven if we
live for Him on this earth. This is a
great comfort:
“There remaineth therefore a rest to
the people of God.” (Hebrews 4:9)
Illinois, Cissna Park
Marilyn Maul
Tina Walder
As we have just come through the
Christmas season, we rejoice that
God has sent his only begotten Son
that we may find salvation.
“Be not content this babe to know,
Nor stay at Bethlehem,
But go with Christ to Calvary’s brow,
Beyond Jerusalem.
‘Tis there men learn to know the
Christ,
For there He bore man’s sin.
Then open wide the door of heart.
And let the Saviour in.”
(Hymns of Zion #36 vs. 3)
14
Grandchildren are a joy at
this season. Bro. Larry and Sis.
Jeanie Kaufmann have a new
granddaughter, Cadence Elena, born
to daughter Sally and Matt Walton.
Bro. Gerald and Sis. Joan Rudin also
have a new granddaughter, Abigail
Joy, born to their daughter, Julie,
and Mark Sidarous.
We thank Bro. Ken Schneider
(Sis. Bernice, Remington, IN) for
bringing us the Word of God this
past month.
We are looking forward to the
baptism of Anthony Kaeb as he
has been announced with peace.
His parents are Bro. Eric and Sis.
LouAnn Kaeb.
Our prayers for healing go to Sis.
Mary Ann Mann, Bro. Marvin Hari
and Bro. Larry Kaufmann as each
has had health issues.
We now look forward to a new
year of serving the Lord. Let us
ever be mindful of what our Father
would have us do.
“Another year is dawning,
Dear Master, let it be,
In working or in waiting,
Another year with Thee.
Another year of mercies,
Of faithfulness and grace.
Another year of gladness
In the shining of Thy face.
Another year of progress,
Another year of praise,
Another year of proving
Thy presence all the days.
Another year of service,
Of witness for Thy love;
Another year of training
For holier work above.
Another year is dawning,
Dear Master, let it be,
On earth, or else in heaven
Another year for Thee.”
(Hymns of Zion #150)
SILVER LINING
ILLINOIS, CONGERVILLE
Rachel Currier
“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;” (Eccl. 3:1-2)
Sis. Marion Miller passed away
on November 29. Our thoughts
and prayers go out to her children.
They include Sandra Chang, Bro. Ed
Miller, Barbara (Marion) Kennell,
Joe Miller, Warren (Valerie) Miller,
Linda (Arnold) Elam, and Marie
(Karl) Hicks.
Kendyn Ethan Wiegand was
welcomed into the family of Bro.
Curt and Sis. Amber Wiegand.
Siblings of Kendyn are Olivia,
Braden, Mallory and Lainey.
Also thankful for his arrival are
grandparents Bro. Rick and Sis. Sue
Wiegand and Bro. Dennis and Sis.
Sharon Walder (Cissna Park, IL).
Bro. Andy and Sis. Erin Ott
welcomed a little boy, Clayton Jack,
into their home. Older sisters are
Sierra and Malaya. Grandparents
of Clayton are Bro. Glen and Sis.
Mardell Ott and Bro. Ben and Sis.
Kathy Zimmerman.
We appreciate those who have
laboured in the Word this past
month. Visiting ministers include
Bro. Ron Isch (Sis. Jane, LamontGridley, KS), Bro. John Hartman
(Sis. Rosemary, Fairbury. IL), and
Bro. Tom Leman (Denver, CO).
Illinois, Elgin
Amy Gasser
We gathered together on
November 17 for the reading of
the Memorandum. Elder Bro. Brad
Eisenmann (Chicago, IL) assisted
Bro. David.
Other visiting ministers were
Bros. Tom Bolliger (Tremont, IL),
January 2013
Kevin Fehr (West Bend, IA), Dale
Frank (Oakville, IA), Loren Schrenk
(St. Louis, MO), and Nathan Walder
(Cissna Park, IL). We thank these
brothers for bringing forth the
Word.
Our prayers go out to Bro. John
(Sis. Wava) Steffen and Sis. Judy
(Bro. Dick) Klopfenstein during the
loss of their sister, Sis. Marion Miller
from Congerville IL.
The engagement of Sis. Heidi
Krueger (Mary and the late Jim)
and Bro. Jeff Beer (Bro. Fred and Sis.
Patsi of Milford, IN) was announced
on December 9. We wish them
God’s blessings as they plan their
wedding.
We pray for Bro. Elvis (Sis.
Marilyn) Kellenberger and Bro. Bill
(Sis. Cora) Schambach, who were
hospital patients this month.
Eli Jon Krueger was born
November 2 to first-time parents,
Derek and Kalan Krueger
(Rochester, MN). Eli’s grandmother
is Mary (the late Jim) Krueger. Bro.
Morris and Sis. Pat Young welcomed
a new granddaughter, Brenna Rose,
born on December 14 to Bro. Lucas
and Sis. Bethany Young (Bradford,
IL). Her siblings are Noah, Ruth,
Joanna, and Jacob. Her maternal
grandparents are Bro. Greg and Sis.
Carla Rassi (Chicago, IL).
We enjoyed Family Christmas
Caroling on December 9. Our
Sunday School Christmas program
was on December 16.
“For unto us a child is born, unto us
a son is given: and the government
shall be upon his shoulder: and his
name shall be called Wonderful,
Counsellor, The mighty God, The
everlasting Father, The Prince of
Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)
January 2013
ILLINOIS, EUREKA
Debra Blunier
Linda Rocke
Thanksgiving is a special time that
reminds us just how much we owe
to God.
“Let us come before his presence with
thanksgiving, and make a joyful
noise unto him with psalms.”
(Psalm 95:2)
We particularly appreciate the
visiting ministers who shared God’s
Word before, during, and after
the holiday. Bro. Barry Dietz (Sis.
Rachel, Bradford, IL), Bro. Glen
Steiner (Sis. Rachel, Winthrop,
MN), and Bro. Dan Moser (Sis.
Anne, Elgin, IL) served us, along
with Bro. Don Manz (Sis. Connie,
Junction, OH), Bro. Randy Beer
(Sis. Deb, Milford, IN), Bro. Loren
Schrenk (Sis. Betsy, St. Louis, MO),
and Bro. Craig Stickling (Sis. Jackie,
Peoria, IL).
ILLINOIS, FAIRBURY
Angela Herr
Kay Steffen
“Glory to God in the Highest! In
remoteness and nearby us ruleth He
with might and grace. Let us bring
our thanks and praise! Let us bring
our thanks and praise! Hallelujah!
Hallelujah!” (Glory to God in the
Highest, Zion’s Harp #9)
On December 16 our Sunday
School children presented the
Christmas story to us through
verses and songs at the Christmas
program. It’s always uplifting to be
reminded of God’s wondrous plan
of salvation.
We were blessed with several
visiting ministers this past month.
May God bless Bro. Todd Sinn
(Latty, OH), Bro. James Fehr
(Tremont, IL), Elder Bro. Jim
Plattner (Princeville, IL), Bro.
SILVER LINING
Dewayne Dill (Minneapolis, MN),
Bro. Brian Waibel (Champaign, IL),
Bro. James Knapp (Congerville, IL),
and Bro. Dennis Rassi (Austin, TX)
for preaching the truth of God’s
Word.
Ron and Sis. June Slagel welcomed
another grandson on October 11
when Colton Russell was born
to Sean and Christine Quigley of
Washington, IL.
Our thoughts and prayers have
been with those recovering from
illness and surgery, including Keith
Moser (Nita), Bro. Tom Steidinger
(Sis. Dianne), Sis. Carol Bazzell
(Bro. Don), and Bro. Harvey
Schieler (Sis. Jan). May God be near
and provide for each one.
ILLINOIS, FORREST
Lisa Aberle
Lynn Dotterer
We are thankful that two more
souls have turned to God in
repentance. They are Luke Dotterer
(Bro. Jason and Sis. Lynn) and Jenna
Kaeb (the late Bro. Eldon and Sis.
Stephanie).
We also rejoice that, on December
16, Sis. Jodi Wenger (Bro. Rich and
Sis. Jill) and Bro. Levi Grimm (Bro.
Kevin and Sis. Nita) of Sabetha,
KS were united in marriage. Elder
Bro. Gerry Hertzel and Bro. David
Hartter of Sabetha, KS, and Bro.
Tim Gerber (Mansfield, OH) were
with us for this day. Bro. Ned
Bahler (Fairbury, IL) also visited on
another occasion.
We also congratulate David
Kuntz (Bro. Rollyn and Sis. Brenda)
and Brittany Helmers (Doug and
Brenda) of Fairbury, IL on their
engagement and upcoming June
wedding.
Our prayers are with Beth Ifft
(Bro. Duane and Sis. Mary) and Sis.
Marge Kuntz who were hospitalized,
and with Bro. Mel Steffen (Sis.
15
Leona) who lost his sister, Sis.
Marion Miller of Congerville, IL.
Notes of Thanks:
Many, many thanks to all for the
prayers, cards, food, memorials,
and so much more. We are
overwhelmed by the love of our
church family, especially during this
difficult time of the accident and
resulting death of our parents. May
God bless each of you! The Eldon
and Stephanie Kaeb family
Words cannot express the love and
prayers we have felt since the loss of
our son and brother. May God bless
you for all your deeds of kindness.
In His love and ours,
The family of Lucas Stork
I would like to thank everyone
for their prayers, cards, food and
gifts of love sent to me while I was
in the hospital and Fairview Haven
Nursing home. They were much
appreciated. Our faith and church
family are very precious to us.
May God bless you all.
Sis. Velma Schladenhauffen
Illinois, Goodfield
Melissa Rokey
Kayla Wiegand
“Into my heart, into my heart, come
into my heart, Lord Jesus, Come in
today, come in to stay, come into my
heart, Lord Jesus!”
(Children’s’ Harp #47)
We rejoice to share that another
soul has felt conviction of sin and
turned to Christ for help. Cole
Steffen (Bro. Dirk and Sis. Deb) has
come with a broken and repentant
heart, and we are thankful and
support him and pray God will bless
him in this new walk.
“The blessed story of the Christ, The
babe of Bethlehem, Is worthy of our
song and praise, And stirs the hearts
of men.” (Hymns of Zion #36)
16
Thanks to everyone who
came Friday night, December 7,
and participated in our church
Christmas caroling. There was a
nice, large group and everyone
enjoyed a BBQ supper back at the
church afterward.
December 9 was the date for our
Sunday School Christmas program.
We thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful
message the children presented.
“Who comforteth us in all our
tribulation, that we may be able
to comfort them which are in any
trouble, by the comfort wherewith we
ourselves are comforted of God.”
(2 Corinthians 1:4)
Whitney Wiegand (Bro. Brad
and Sis. Karen) has spent time in
Chicago undergoing tests for her
chronic seizures. We lift her and her
family up in our prayers for healing
this month and as they continue
looking for answers.
Sis. Deb Fehr (Bro. Steve) feels the
loss of her dear aunt, Jeanie Kline,
who passed away on November 25.
Jeanie was like a mother to her. We
offer our sympathy and prayers for
comfort.
We wish to express our
appreciation to the ministers who
have visited and shared the Gospel
with us this month. Thank you
to Bros. Don Manz (Sis. Connie,
Junction, OH), Virgil Kaeb (Sis.
Suellen, Sarasota, FL), Daron Price
(Sis. Monica, Milford, IN), Tim
Drayer (Sis. Gwen, Bluffton North,
IN), and John Bradle (Sis. Jill,
Roanoke, IL) for sharing their time
and ministry with us.
Note of Thanks:
I would like to thank everyone
who remembered me on my 90th
birthday by sending a card. They are
very much appreciated and I cherish
each and every one. Most of all,
thank you for the love that you have
SILVER LINING
shown to me throughout the years.
You have all been a blessing to me.
Thanks again!
In Christ,
Betty Wiegand
Illinois, Gridley
Perry Klopfenstein
As the Lord’s host, we are to be
followers of Him, as dear children.
And we are to walk in love “as
Christ also hath loved us, and hath
given himself for us an offering and a
sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling
savour”. (Ephesians 5:2)
The past season of Christmas
has personified God’s love for us in
sending His son to earth as a babe
in swaddling clothes laying in a
manger -- a very lowly birth. Yet,
only those who turn to Christ in
repentance and remain faithful are
the beneficiaries of God’s marvelous
plan for mankind.
Our dear brother in faith, Bro.
Alvin G. Ringger, passed away on
December 12, 2012 at age 85. He
had been confined to his home the
past few years, lovingly cared for by
his wife of 60 years, Sis. Dorothy,
and other relatives and loved ones.
He is survived by his wife, and
three daughters, Beverly Ringger
(Howard Curtis), Eugene, OR; Keri
(Al) Hany, Gridley, IL; and Beth
(Tom) Schreiner, Zimmerman,
MN; and one son, Rodney (Laura)
Ringger, Metamora, IL. Several
siblings survive him. Sisters Viola
and Lillian Ringger, of Gridley;
sister Betty Hermann, Princeville,
and Brothers Edwin, Gridley; Fred,
Hudson; and Ray, Normal. Also, two
granddaughters survive. We missed
the presence of Bro. Al in church the
past few years. He was a man gifted
in personality. He had a ready smile,
and was eager to visit. May God be
with his survivors in their loss.
Bro. Bill Schick (Magdalena, MX)
January 2013
spoke here on a Wednesday evening
for church services. Another visiting
minister was Bro. Mark Wettstein
(La Crosse, IN) on Christmas
morning. Bro. Jaye Rinkenberger
(Goodfield, IL) was a visiting
minister on December 12. We thank
these brothers for their labors on the
Lord’s behalf.
Bro. Stan Ringger is recovering
from surgery. Sis. Jane Steidinger
is also receiving treatment for her
medical condition. May God help
them according to His will.
Sis. Courtney Funk was
announced to be married to Bro.
Garrett Yackley of Taylor, MO.
She is the daughter of Bro. Mark
and Sis. Becky Funk. His parents are
Bro. Joe and Sis. Gerilyn Yackley.
Illinois, Morton
Annette Tanner
Julie Bahr
What a blessing we received
and our lives were enriched when
we listened to the special songs
presented by the Sunday School
children as they told the precious
Christmas story entitled “Room For
Jesus!” Bro. Fred Funk (Sis. Diane)
also taught us in the scriptures
of the Christmas story as he gave
our family worship topic “Highly
Favored.” We too, as was Mary, are
highly favored! Knowing of Christ
the Babe, and then, Christ the
Savior as our Ultimate Gift!
Our visiting ministers were Bro.
Greg Rassi (Sis. Carla, Chicago,
IL) and Bro. Matthew Rassi (Sis.
Bridget, also of Chicago). We are
thankful!
The end of another year gives us
a chance to reflect and recall the
many lessons God has taught us. A
reminder for us to take some time
to recall highlights of our journey
spent, knowing God and His great
goodness.
January 2013
ILLINOIS, PEORIA
Pam Fritzenmeier
Bro. Josh and Sis. Bethany Hoerr
were blessed with a baby girl,
Jovi Katlyn, born Nov. 25. Her
big sisters are Layla and Santana.
Grandparents are Bro. Chris and Sis.
Patty Kummer and Bro. Bob and Sis.
Myrna Hoerr.
Our annual Senior Citizens
Dinner was held Nov. 17. The senior
citizens enjoy the food, fellowship,
and singing program and the young
group experiences the joy of serving
others.
December 9 was the Sunday
school Christmas program. Excited
children presented the story of
Christ’s birth in song and verse.
After the program, many went
Christmas caroling. Joy to the
world, the Lord is come!
Our sympathy and prayers are
extended to Sis. Myrna (Bro. Bob)
Hoerr and family. Her mother, Sis.
Lucille Herman (Washington, IL)
passed away November 29.
There are many in our
congregation needing prayers as
they deal with various health issues:
Sis. Lillian (Bro. Bob) Cagle, Sis.
Michelle (Bob) Coburn, Sis. Maria
Graham, Sis. Bernie (Bro. Ed)
Meister, Bro. Harry (Sis. Loretta)
Eisenmann, Bro. Bob (Sis. Marge)
Rumbold, Ben Stickling, Bro. Irv
(Sis. Sharon) Hodel, and Joy Bao
(Bro. Willis and Sis. Lois Ehnle’s
daughter).
Our thanks to Bro. Bill (Sis. Joan)
Schick (Magdalena, MX), Bro. Matt
(Sis. Deanna) Steffen (Princeville,
IL), and Bro. Ryan (Sis. Joy) Hoerr
(Princeville,IL) for spending time
ministering to us.
We are thankful for four new
brothers and sisters in Christ.
We heard their testimonies and
witnessed their baptisms December
15 and 16. They are Bro. David
SILVER LINING
Hofstetter (Bro. Ralph and Sis.
Karen), Bro. Steven Davidovics (Bro.
Fedi and Sis. Ruth), Sis. Tiffany
Waibel (Bro. Mike and Sis. Rose),
and Sis. Abby Triplett (Bro. Matt
and Sis. Kristi).
Please remember in prayer those
serving in missions, including Bro.
Tim and Sis. Joan Reinhard and
family, and Sis. Kelsey Klopfenstein
(Haiti), and Bro. Jonathan and Sis.
Bere Aupperle, Bro. Zach Knobloch,
and Bro. Jason Grassi (Magdalena,
MX).
We welcome Sis. Janelle Grassi
home from Haiti, and wish her
God’s blessings as she adjusts to life
in the states again.
17
Streitmatter is remembered in the
loss of her brother, Jim Stogsdill.
May God grant His comfort to these
dear sisters.
Bro. Michael and Sis. Raquel
Herrmann welcomed a son, Brice
Alan, on December 3. Nicole is
glad for a brother. Bro. Allan and
Sis. Rose Herrmann and Bro. Alan
and Sis. Mary Ann Knobloch are
thankful grandparents. Bro. Ben
and Sis. Hannah Martin were
blessed with a little girl, Kinley
Iza, on December 12. Welcoming
Kinley are Serenity, Brady, Derrek,
and Aleah. Bro. Sam and Sis. Mary
Martin and Bro. Howard and Sis.
Mary Ann Herrmann are grateful
grandparents.
Bro. Dick and Sis. Jeanette
Graham welcomed a new
grandchild on December 5. Bro.
Ben and Sis. Suzanne Graham
(Indianapolis, IN) were blessed with
the arrival of Claire Jeanelle.
Bro. Marvin and Sis. Jane Leman
have been blessed with 50 years of
marriage on December 2. We rejoice
with them at this special time in
their life.
The engagement of Bro. Ryan
Stoller (Bro. Gale and Sis. Sonia)
and Sis. Ashley Herrmann (Bro.
Doug and Sis. Angie) was made
known on December 23. May God
bless them in all their future plans.
Bro. Todd Stoller and Bro. Grant
and Sis. Hannah Herrmann have
been home over the holidays from
Mexico. We keep them in our
prayers as they return again soon.
Illinois, Princeville
Linda Joos
Gloria White
God has again sent us visiting
ministers to speak His Word to us.
Bro. Ned Stoller (Alto, MI), Bro.
Myron Knobloch (Lester, IA), Bro.
Doyle Frauhiger (Bluffton North,
IN), and Elder Bro. Brad Eisenmann
(Chicago, IL) were recently in our
midst.
Chuck Streitmatter (Linda) fell
from a grain bin and fractured his
leg. We are thankful he is healing
and that there were not more severe
injuries. Sis. Denise Kieser was a
hospital patient, and Bro. Howard
and Sis. Mary Ann Herrmann were
in a car accident. May God be near
each one as they recover.
We are thankful Braden
Streitmatter (Bro. David and Sis.
Crystal) could find the grace from
Illinois, Roanoke
God to begin repentance. This is
Jamie Hodel
surely the most important step in
Barb Schwind
life. May God be near him.
Our prayers are with Sis. Betty
“Oh, magnify the Lord with me,
(late Bro. Eugene) Herrmann as her
and let us exalt his name together.”
brother, Bro. Alvin Ringger (Gridley,
(Psalm 34:3)
IL) was laid to rest recently. Also,
Sis. Grace (late Bro. Emanuel)
18
Joy to the World! The birth of
Jesus brings much joy and hope
to our hearts. Through church
caroling on December 2, our
Sunday School Christmas program
on December 16, and “There Will
Be Joy” Christmas program on
December 19, our congregation
heard and shared the message of
the birth of the Savior. The beautiful
music shared by young and old
glorified our Lord. We thank
everyone who organized, practiced,
and participated in these events,
allowing us to worship our Lord
through song and scripture reading.
We thank visiting ministers: Bros.
Matt Oesch (Alto, MI) and Darin
Metz (Gridley, IL) for sharing
God’s Word. We also want to thank
Bro. Ken Rinkenberger for his
presentation at the fellowship hall
on “A Biblical Perspective of the
Middle East Conflict.”
We welcome three beautiful
babies, gifts from God. Evelyn (Evie)
June Schick was born on November
20 to Bro. Tyler and Sis. Sara Schick.
Evie’s grandparents are Bro. Dan and
Sis. Kim Maher and Bro. Bill and
Sis. Joan Schick (Magdalena, MX).
Joleen Rose was born to Greg and
Ashley Peterson of Nashville, TN on
November 26. Jolene’s grandparents
are Sis. Raylene and Bro. Jerry Getz,
Rick and Diana Zimmerman of
Peoria and Bob and Phyllis Peterson
of Roanoke. On December 3, Bro.
Seth and Sis. Angela Braker of Little
Rock, AR welcomed Gracie Mae.
Gracie’s grandparents are Bro. Jim
and Sis. Marge Braker and Mike
and Janet Weber of Peoria. What
joy each of these little ones brings to
their families!
On December 7, Bro. Merlyn
Getz passed away. Bro. Merlyn
served our community for many
decades with his service on the
fire department and ambulance
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squad. He is survived by his wife,
Sis. Jan; his children: Lorna (Bro.
Jim), Boni (Dan) Oltman, Joan
Wilson, Milt (Jen) Getz, Bro. Chad
(Sis. Crystal) Getz of Roanoke; a
sister: Sis. Verla (Bro. Dan) Wiegand
(Goodfield); brothers: Bro. Melvin
(Sis. Margaret) Getz (Peoria), Bro.
Allan (Sis. Nathalia) Getz (Eureka)
and Bro. Jerry (Sis. Raylene) Getz;
11 grandchildren and 5 greatgrandchildren. Our prayers are with
the Getz family.
Our prayers are also with the
Bro. Jim (Sis. Doris) Hodel family
in the passing of their son-in-law,
Joe (Terri) Carr of El Paso, IL
on December 16. May the Lord
comfort the hearts of both of these
families.
Our church business meeting was
December 5. Bro. Dennis Rocke is
the new church trustee, Bro. Dan
Leman is the new Nursing Home
trustee and Bro. Kevin Fisher is the
new Fellowship Hall trustee. We
appreciate these brothers taking on
new responsibilities and thank those
who have served us in the past.
Our prayers are with those
battling health issues, including
Sally Achtenberg and Lora
Wuethrich.
“Another year is dawning, Dear
Master, let it be, On earth, or else
in heaven Another year for Thee.”
(Hymns of Zion #150)
ILLINOIS, TREMONT
Teresa Rowell
Janice Sauder
We have had several visiting
ministers this month, and we wish
to thank them for their service to
us. They were Bro. Akihiro Ito (Sis.
Carrie, Shioda, Japan), Bro. Willis
Ehnle (Sis. Lois, Peoria, IL), Bro.
Ed Fritz (Sis. Sally, Washington, IL)
and Bro. Virgil Kaeb (Sis. Sue Ellen,
Sarasota, Fl).
January 2013
Several young couples have
announced their engagements.
Bro. Josh Bolliger (Bro. Tom and
Sis. Jane) is engaged to Sis. Nichole
Koch (Bro. Earl and Sis. Marsha).
Danielle Rollins (Bro. Marty and Sis.
Carla) is engaged to Levi Hancock
(Steve and Rhonda, Tremont).
Andy Wagenbach (Bro. Si and
Sis. Lavonne) is engaged to Jade
Venovich. Paige Bolliger (Bro. Dean
and Sis. Trudy) is engaged to Dustin
Kilgus (Bro. Todd and Sis. Rita).We
wish all of these dear couples God’s
richest blessings as they take this
important step in their lives.
We are saddened to report the
death of Sis. Eunice Rowell. She will
be greatly missed by our Tremont
church and by her son Ken (Linda).
May God comfort all those who
sorrow.
Yet, we always have joy even
when sorrow abounds. We are very
excited to welcome Bro. John and
Sis. Nelda Rowell to our Tremont
church. They have moved here
from Burlington, IA to be closer to
family. They will be sorely missed
in Burlington, but we are happy to
have them here. We, too, will miss
Sis. Lucy Koch as she moves to Leo,
IN temporarily to train for a new
job. We pray that Sis. Lucy will feel
welcome in Leo and feel the prayers
of those she has left behind as she
begins a new chapter in her life.
Our Sunday School Christmas
program is always an enjoyable time
for our church. From the little ones
who tripped going up and down the
risers, to the Bible Class girls who
sent chills up and down our spines
with their glorious rendition of
“Mary Did You Know?”, and every
child in between, we know the Lord
looks down on these young ones
and smiles as they praise His Holy
Name in song.
Steve Wagenbach has begun
January 2013
chemo and radiation for esophageal
cancer and we pray for him as he
deals with this illness. For those who
are experiencing health setbacks, we
pray that God’s healing, comforting
hand would be upon each one.
Illinois, Washington
Marlene Prather
Jodi Fehr
“And she brought forth her firstborn
son, and wrapped him in swaddling
clothes, and laid him in a manger;
because there was no room for them
in the inn.” (Luke 2:7)
The Sunday School recently
blessed us by sharing the story
of Christ’s birth through their
Christmas program. It seems that
even though we know the account
well, we never tire of hearing about
the events of that night.
We also recently enjoyed an
evening of all-church caroling
followed by a meal back at the
church. This evening is always a
blessing for all and a reminder of
the Lord’s goodness.
Bro. Rob and Sis. Lily Pfaffmann
rejoice over the birth of another
grandchild. Brady Robert was
born to Bro. Caleb and Sis. Heidi
Pfaffmann of Morris, MN.
As always, we extend our heartfelt
appreciation to the ministers who
visit Washington and share the
Word. Visitors this month included
Bro. Joe Klotzle (Sis. Sue) of
Altadena, CA and Bro. John Rowell
(Sis. Nelda) of Burlington, Iowa.
Sis. Lucille Herman recently
passed away and gets to spend
Christmas with the Lord this year
whom she served for more than
75 years. We extend our love and
sympathy to her family including
her daughter, Sis. Lin Herman, of
Washington.
We also give our love and
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sympathy to Sis. Nancy Musselman
(Bro. Roger) whose father, Bro. Cleo
Rinkenberger (Sis. Esther) of Peoria,
IL recently went to his eternal rest.
We continue to pray for those who
have been hospitalized or are facing
health challenges including Nathan
Hoffstetter, Sis. Pearline Streitmatter,
and Sis. Sue Ruppert.
INDIANA, BLUFFTON
Kim Meyer
Suzie Fiechter
Greetings in the love of Jesus
Christ! Christmas is a unique
time of year. There is a wide range
of emotions felt at this time of
year. But if we set aside all these
emotions, may we find peace that
only stems from the true meaning
of Christmas, Jesus’ birth. Love, joy,
and peace resonate on people’s lips
more during the Christmas season.
But why? Is it because we have loved
ones surrounding us and we share
mutual love for one another? Or is it
because we realize God manifested
his love toward us and sent us His
only begotten Son? Are we joyful
because we are one of those people
who just love the Christmas season
or are we joyful because we are
celebrating our Savior’s birth and
the gift of redemption He brings to
all?! Are we peaceful because our
circumstances are good or because
we have the peace that passes all
understanding and can only come
from Jesus?
We have three new converts who
are truly celebrating the true reason
for the season. Kyle Isch (son of
Bro. Jeff and Sis. Karen Isch), Mike
DeHoff (son of Bro. Scott and Sis.
Rita DeHoff), and Connor Gilliom
(son of Bro. Kent and Sis. Mary
Gilliom). We rejoice with these
three young men and pray their
appetite for God’s Word and desire
to glorify God will only grow bigger
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each day.
Bro. Dave and Sis. Joleen Sinn
are thankful to welcome their first
grandson into this world. Ryan
James was born to their daughter
and son-in-law, Carla and Aaron
Moser. Bro. Nathaniel and Sis.
Krista Aschliman are rejoicing
in the birth of their first child,
Chardon Lee. Bro. Kevin and Sis.
Beth Aschliman and Bro. Don and
Sis. Suzie Fiechter are thankful for
the opportunity to embrace their
healthy grandson. Khloe Lynn was
born to Bro. Brad and Sis. Sonya
Bertsch on December 6. She will
join her big sisters: Ashlyn and
Baylee. Her grandparents are Bro.
Mike and Sis. Carmen Bertsch
and Bro. Bob and Sis. Barb Beer of
Milford, IN.
Our dear Sis. Irene Steffen (Bro.
Glennes-dec) passed away. Her
children are Janice Ringger and
Allen and Carla Steffen. Our hearts
go out to the John Yergler family
as well. This time of year seems to
amplify the loss of loved ones, but
we pray these families will feel God’s
embrace and comfort. We also think
of others who are experiencing
Christmas without a loved one.
May God’s love uplift you and be
your strength when the grieving can
seem too big to bear.
We have been blessed to add
another minister to our pulpit. Bro.
Vince and Sis. Brandy Pfister, along
with their children Lillian, Maxton,
Hazel, Marcus, and Judah, are
obediently and willingly embracing
this new role in their family. Already
we have been blessed to hear Bro.
Vince’s honesty and sincerity as he
responds to God’s call. We have
also voted in new Sunday School
teachers and officers in other church
services. May these be seen as
opportunities to touch others’ souls
but realize these are not the only
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opportunities in which to do so as
well. Thank you to all the teachers
who will go out this year.
We have much to be thankful for
during this time of year. It’s easy
to get caught up in the hustle and
bustle of the season, but let’s be
intentional in celebrating the true
meanings of Christmas. We make
extra efforts to get together and
share our love with one another.
How much effort do we make
to share our love with Jesus this
holiday season that’s all about
Him? If Jesus asked you to share an
afternoon with him alone, could you
do it? Could you spend 24, 12, 6 or
even 3 hours with Jesus or would
you pack your laptop and work on
projects that have just fallen too
far behind? If we can’t, what does
this say about our commitment
level or desire for Jesus? Sure, it’s
an exceptionally busy time of year,
but it’s Jesus’ birthday! It’s His day.
Shouldn’t we take extra measures
to spend a little special moment
with Him? What would a 5-yearold child say when they tear off the
last chain in the countdown of their
birthday, if you don’t say anything
or do anything to celebrate their
birthday? After all, how much effort
do we take in making our family
Christmas gatherings special? May
God’s definitions of love, joy, and
peace fill each of us this holiday
season so that others would see
we are truly celebrating the true
meaning this Christmas Season.
Merry Christmas and God bless you
all!
INDIANA, BLUFFTON NORTH
Jessie Longenberger
Amy Moser
Greetings in the LORD! We
rejoice with Bro. Jadon and Sis.
Tundy Rauch as they welcome their
first daughter. Alita was born on
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November 23 and welcomed home
by brothers: Jamin, Benton, and
Maxton.
We wish to thank Bro. Jeff Waibel
(Sis. Margo, Leo, IN) for ministering
to us on November 25. We thank
God for inspiring our dear brothers.
We were saddened to hear of
the passing John Yergler. Our
sympathies are extended to Sis.
Carolyn Yergler, Bro. Jeff Yergler
(Sis. Peg), Sis. Marlise Steffen (Bro.
Tim) and family.
The afternoon of December 9
found the Sunday school children
from the Pre-Nursery through
First Grade excitedly presenting
the Christmas Story Play in front
of their parents and grandparents.
We thank the children, teachers,
and parents for their dedication and
hard work. May God bless all who
worked to make this Christmas play
go smoothly.
Hebrews 2:9 “But we see Jesus, who
was made a little lower than the
angels for the suffering of death,
crowned with glory and honour; that
he by the grace of God should taste
death for every man.’”
Indiana, Francesville
Mildred Clauss
Jacki Huber
“Happy is he who has the God of
Jacob for his help, whose hope is in
the Lord his God” (Psalm 146:5)
As we come to the end of another
calendar year may we find new
strength and new courage in 2013
because God has promised “to
supply all your need according to
his riches in glory by Christ Jesus”
(Philippians 4:19).
Two brothers have been chosen
by our congregation to serve in the
ministry. They are Bro. Chad Huber
(wife, Sis. Pam) and Bro. Nick
Waibel (wife, Sis. Sandra). We thank
January 2013
the Lord for His Leading and for His
Peace as this was accomplished.
Our Sunday School Christmas
program was presented on Sunday
afternoon, December 9, and in
the evening many participated in
Christmas Caroling. It is a joyous
way to honor Christ Jesus at this
blessed season.
We have welcomed three visiting
ministers during the past month.
They were: Elder Bro. Dan Kilgus
(Sis. Jenna) of Remington, Bro. Neal
Widmer (Sis. Kris) of West Lafayette
and Bro. Art Mueller (Sis. Marlene)
of Belvidere, IL. We pray the Lord
will reward them for serving us and
also for serving Him.
Sis. Carolyn Levy passed away
on December 18 at age 96 years.
She had lived at Parkview for many
years, moving here from Kouts with
her husband, Bro. Ralph. He passed
away in 1999. We extend our sincere
sympathy to her children: Bro.
Roger (Sis. Sue) Levy and Sis. Janet
(Bro. Bill) Baumgartner.
Cecelia Neihouser and Dane
Harper recently exchanged wedding
vows and we wish God’s grace and
blessing on their marriage. Their
parents are Bro. Brad and Sis. Barb
Neihouser and Mike and Janelle
Harper.
Indiana, Indianapolis
Katy Frantz
Sandy Lichtle
We rejoice with first-time parents,
Bro. Ben and Sis. Suzanne Graham,
on the birth of their daughter, Claire
Jeanelle, born on Dec. 5. Thankful
grandparents are Bro. Dick and Sis.
Jeanette Graham (Princeville, IL)
and Sis. Ginny Zeller.
Our annual Sunday school
Christmas program was held
on December 9. It was a joy and
blessing to hear the children tell
the wonderful story of Jesus’
January 2013
birth through verse and song. On
Wednesday, December 19, we
enjoyed a chili supper at church,
followed by Christmas caroling in
the community.
Bro. Makoto Inoue (Sis. Anna)
led a Bible study on 1 Peter on
November 28 and December 12.
Our heartfelt prayers and
sympathy are with Bro. Roger and
Sis. Sue Levy and their family. Bro.
Roger’s mother, Sis. Carolyn Levy,
went home to be with the Lord on
December 18. She had been living at
Parkview Haven Retirement Home
in Francesville, IN and had ties with
both Francesville and LaCrosse.
We appreciate the service of the
following visiting ministers this
past month: Bro. Brian Huber (Sis.
Jacki, Francesville, IN), Bro. Jaye
Rinkenberger (Sis. Peggy, Goodfield,
IL), Elder Bro. Wayne Banwart (Sis.
Charlen, Champaign, IL), Bro. Jeff
Neihouser (Sis. Sue, Morton, IL)
and Bro. Scott Schafer (Sis. Gigi,
South Bend, IN). May the Lord
richly bless you for your servant
hearts and labors of love.
INDIANA, LACROSSE
Julie Rocke
Meagan Frank
“For unto us a child is born, unto us
a son is given… and his name shall
be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The
mighty God, The everlasting Father,
The Prince of Peace.”( Isaiah 9:6)
What a blessed people are we that
our Savior came to bring ‘comfort
and joy’ which is often lost in the
midst of feverish planning, giving,
receiving, and gathering. All are
wonderful blessings, but can lose
their blessedness if not tempered by
the Prince of Peace. In our church
family we have been given so many
wonderful gifts, particularly that
very word, family. May we always
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remember to reach out to those who
may not be surrounded by loved
ones during this season and beyond.
Bro. Mark & Sis. Karen Wettstein
rejoiced to witness their son,
Brandon, give his testimony of faith
and be baptized the first weekend
of December. That following week,
their daughter, Jayla, expressed her
desire to give her life to the Lord
in repentance. We rejoice with this
precious family and continue to
pray for Bro. Brandon and Jayla as
they grow in grace.
While our hearts are gladdened by
the addition of more lambs to the
fold, we were also saddened by the
news of a couple moving to another
church. Bro. Josh, Sis. Bethany,
Emily, Erin, & Ava Johnson will be
relocating to Latty, OH in January
for Bro. Josh’s employment. We are
thankful for the Lord’s direction,
provision, and peace in their lives,
but will greatly miss their smiling
faces in our LaCrosse family.
Bro. Jim Butikofer (Sis. Diana,
Iowa City, IA), Bro. John Leman
(Wolcott, IN), and Elder Bro. Ted
Steffen (Sis. Sandy, Alto, MI) all
shared the Word with us this month.
We thank these brothers for their
labors of love.
Our retired Elder Bro. Ed Frank,
who has spent considerable time
in the hospital, and recovering in a
nursing home, is now very happy
to be home again. Our Sis. Carolyn
Levy is in the hospital recovering
surgery for a broken hip. We are
thankful she continues to have
a smile on her face, and that she
continues to bless all who visit her
with her characteristic positive
attitude. We pray for continued
healing for each of these dear souls
who have been such pillars in our
church.
Last, but not least, this month
we also enjoyed the Christmas
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program given by our Sunday
School students, who, as always, did
a wonderful job memorizing their
verses and sharing the Christmas
story to us in song. That evening
we shared our annual Christmas
Caroling and supper together. What
joy it brings our hearts to sing
praises to our Lord and be reminded
of His perfect gift of Love.
INDIANA, LEO
Kirby Reutter
Here’s the dilemma of a Silver
Lining reporter. On one hand, if
you are interested in what happens
in Leo, you already heard the news
two months ago. On the other hand,
if you are not interested in what
happens in Leo, then you probably
won’t read the article in the first
place. So what are we supposed to
write about?
Now factor in a third twist: We
here at Gateway tend to be so
singularly focused on this ministry
that we sometimes forget the
broader perspective of the rest of
the denomination that supports
us. (That’s just my personal
observation, which I am willing to
take ownership.) Thus, just for this
month, I would like to take a break
from local news and instead digress
with more of a regional perspective.
As always, thanks for bearing with
me!
A few months ago, Bro. Joshua
Martinez contacted me with an
opportunity. (Bro. Josh is a beloved
Gateway representative from the
South Bend church, where he
also moonlights as a fellow Silver
Lining correspondent). This was
the opportunity: “Explain” the
Apostolic Christian Church to a
local South Bend pastor and his
wife, including the specific mission
of Gateway Woods. (Let’s not forget
that 1 Peter 3:15 is still in the Bible!)
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As Bro. Josh spoke (and as I listened
and learned), he first explained
the denominational history of the
church, starting in Europe. Next,
Bro. Josh explained his personal
history with the church, starting
with his exposure to a church
family.
“I was first exposed to the
Apostolic faith when I moved to
the United States and resided with a
church family. Since I did not have a
family of my own, they became my
family. But then I realized that the
entire AC church was like a family.
For example, I learned that I could
travel to a completely different state,
walk into a church where I had
never been before, and immediately
trust the people I met, because they
were like family,”
On my two-hour return trip
home, I had plenty of time to
ponder the words of Bro. Josh. I
have to admit, my heart became
heavy, and I wondered to myself:
Are we still a family? Are we still
living up to Bro. Josh’s description?
Can we still walk into any Apostolic
church and fully trust any brother
or sister that we meet? And not
just trust—but love, honor, respect,
esteem, live for, sacrifice for, and die
for? The Bible calls us to no less!
So I decided to put Bro. Josh’s
words to a test. The very next major
holiday, my wife and I attended
an Apostolic church in the region
that we hadn’t visited in a while.
We had no plans for the day. With
immediate family members ranging
from Connecticut to Mexico (and
not much in between), would
Apostolic Christians be willing to
be our family for the day? I should
not have wondered. The results were
fascinating!
As we walked across the parking
lot, before we even entered the
building, a dear brother said: “Bro.
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Kirby, does your family have plans
for…” As we entered the building,
a dear sister on the other side of
the threshold said: “Bro. Kirby,
does your family have plans for…”
There were two invitations before
we even entered the sanctuary!
After the morning service, I tried
to escape incognito back to the
parking lot. But a dear older sister
came chasing after us. “Bro. Kirby,
does your family have plans for…”
(I don’t even know her name, but
she was probably either a Manz or a
Schlatter.) Then I recalled the words
of Bro. Josh, “Apostolic Christians
are like a family!”
Long ago when I still had free
time (this was pre-marriage and
pre-children), I used to love reading
the writings of the early Christians.
This was one of my favorite stories:
Once a young Christian man was
interrogated for his faith. The
examiner asked him: “What is
your name?” to which the young
man replied: “Christian.” Then the
examiner asked: “What is your
family name?” to which the young
man replied: “Christian.” Then the
examiner asked: “What is your
occupation?” to which the young
man replied: “Christian.” Guess
what? The young man was convicted
of being a Christian—and sentenced
accordingly!
If we were accused of being a
Christian in our day, what would
be the verdict? A light sentence?
A life sentence? A death sentence?
Or worst of all, would the case
be dismissed on account of
inconclusive testimony? Let us make
our calling and election sure!
Finally, if people from Leo
weren’t so appreciative, these
articles probably wouldn’t get so
long. However, lest we quench the
Spirit, our beloved Bro. Ben from
Bluffton recently posted this note of
January 2013
gratitude, which has been reprinted
below:
“Sis. Alissa and I would like to
thank all of you for your generous
gifts at our wedding shower. We
appreciate even more the love and
support you have shown us through
our engagement. We look forward
to worshiping the living God with
you all here in Leo, serving others
with you in our community, and
fellowshipping with you and your
families in the near future. We
esteem the friendships that we
already have and look forward to
building new friendships as well.
Love and blessings, Bro. Ben & Sis.
Alissa”
Are Apostolic Christians perfect?
Not even close. But are we still a
family? I believe that we are! Has
God given up on us yet? I personally
do not believe that He has. So in
conclusion, let us open our Zion’s
Harp hymnals to number 237.
INDIANA, MILFORD
Janie Price
Paula Haab
One of God’s precious gifts is
to bind two hearts together. Our
church rejoiced at the engagement
of Bro. Jeff Beer to Sis. Heide
Krueger. Sis. Heide is the daughter
of Sis. Mary Krueger from Elgin,
IL. Sis Heide is currently serving in
Magdelena MX. Bro. Jeff is the son
of Bro. Fred and Sis. Pat Beer.
We have had several visiting
ministers come to speak of the love
of Jesus. Bro. Daren Metz (Gridley,
IL), Bro. Chris Laukhuf (Latty, OH),
Elder Bros. Rick Plattner (Fairbury,
IL), Dan Kilgus (Remington, IN),
Curt Frank (LaCrosse, IN) and Bill
Schlatter (Junction, OH). We praise
God for the labors of love the elders
share in the duties performed on
behalf of our church.
Our prayers of healing have been
January 2013
answered for those needing medical
attention over the past month. Bro.
Ray Haab, Bro. Al Wuthrich and
little Kinzy Schlip.
Our Sunday school students
brought us the story of Christmas
through song and poem.
They also brought joy to many
hearts as they joined in our annual
Christmas caroling.
Psalm 25:6 “Remember, O Lord,
thy tender mercies and thy
lovingkindnesses; for they have been
ever of old.”
Verse 9: “The meek will he guide in
judgment; and the meek will he teach
his way.”
God is unlimited and allconquering. As the Christmas
season comes to a close, have you
allowed Christmas to conquer your
fears?
INDIANA, REMINGTON
Jenni Honegger
Marcella Tyler
We would like to thank visiting
minister Bro. Ryan Schock (Sis.
Melanie) from Bloomfield, IA. We
always appreciate it when visitors
share the Word.
Please pray for Bro. Dan Stoller
(Sis. Deb) and Sis. Jody Waibel (Bro.
Bruce) as they recover from recent
surgeries.
Bro. Ken Schneider (Sis. Bernice)
has announced that he will be
retiring from the ministry. We wish
to sincerely thank Bro. Ken for all
his efforts throughout the years
and for his many sacrifices on our
behalf. We have been richly blessed
by having him as a minister and
pray God’s blessings on him and Sis.
Bernice as they begin a new season
of their lives in serving the Lord.
The Sunday School treated us
to their songs and recitations
about Christmas in their annual
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program last week. We also had
the opportunity to share the story
of Jesus’ birth through song by
caroling to various people in our
community later that afternoon.
What a blessing! All the songs of
Christ’s birth are so inspiring and
beautiful, but I especially appreciate
“The Babe of Bethlehem” (Hymns of
Zion #36). I did not grow up in our
church, so this hymn was unfamiliar
to me, but it quickly became one
of my favorites. Let us keep the
purpose of Christ’s birth in our
minds and hearts as we celebrate
His coming!
“The blessed story of the Christ, the
babe of Bethlehem,
Is worthy of our song and praise, and
stirs the hearts of men.
The fullness of God’s love divine,
surrounds the Christ so mild
Alas how many only know the
Saviour as a child.
Our saving hope is all in vain, if here
our love should cease,
For in the man of Galilee, we find the
gift of peace.
‘Tis not the babe but Christ, the man,
who walked in Galilee;
‘Tis not the manger, but the cross,
that sets the spirit free.
Be not content this babe to know, nor
stay at Bethlehem,
But go with Christ to Calvary’s brow,
beyond Jerusalem.
‘Tis there men learn to know the
Christ, for there He bore man’s sin.
Then open wide the door of heart,
and let the Saviour in.”
(The Babe of Bethlehem,
Hymns of Zion #36)
INDIANA, SOUTH BEND
Joshua Martinez
“Glory to God in the highest, and on
earth peace, good will toward men.”
(Luke 2:14)
Our church family was blessed
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this year with God’s gifts of love,
peace, fellowship, health, physical
healing and bountiful provision.
We give honor and glory to our
Heavenly Father as we celebrate in
song and spirit the wonderful gift of
His son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus
Christ.
We wish to thank our visiting
ministers: Bro. Daron Price (Sis.
Monica, Milford, IN) and Bro. John
Reinhard (Sis. Pam, Bluffton, IN)
for their service from the pulpit,
sharing the Good News and their
time of fellowship. We are also
happy to have our Bro. Bob and Sis.
Sue Beebe safely back from their
recent time of service at Hospital
Lumiere in Haiti.
We do not know what the New
Year, 2013, will bring into our
lives. However, we rest happy and
secure knowing that it will bring us
one year closer to our wonderful
meeting with our Savior and our
Father in Heaven. God’s blessings to
you all!
“And blessed be his glorious name for
ever: and let the whole earth be filled
with his glory; Amen, and Amen.”
(Psalm 72:19)
INDIANA, VALPARAISO
Marguerite Hoerr
Our daughter has gone to
considerable work and dedication
this approaching Christmas season
to acquaint her three sons with their
ancestors. This has meant that we
have been asked questions that we
so wish we could ask our parents. I
don’t know how many times I have
thought of questions I wish I had
asked my Mom or my Dad. Now
they have gone on to Heaven and I
can’t ask them anymore. Being the
oldest in my family, and Bob being
the oldest in his, there is simply no
one else we can go to in order to get
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the answers. We thank her so much
for doing this.
We’ve heard stories repeated over
the years since we were kids, and I
can remember thinking, “Not that
again.” Now I want to hear them
again and again and again. Have
others been as thoughtless as I was?
I sincerely hope not.
My father was chosen to the
ministry when I was two years
old, so I was privileged to hear his
sermons from then until he retired
when I was in my sixties. Also,
my Dad was a story teller and he
memorized poetry. After his death
one time we all got together at my
Sister Mary’s (Bro. Carl Fiechter’s)
home and we all tried to remember
the poems he taught us. It was
amazing how many of them we
could still quote. Some of the poems
were humorous but most of them
were quite serious in nature, as
“Thanatopsis”: “So live that when
that summons comes to join that
innumerable caravan which moves,
to that mysterious realm where each
shall take his chamber in the silent
halls of death.” Also, “The Village
Blacksmith”: “He went to church
on Sunday and heard his daughter’s
voice, singing in the village choir
and it made his heart rejoice.” These
are just two of them. Dad could
never sing anything but melody but
he’d teach us new hymns he learned
while we were milking cows, and I
can remember the milk squirting in
the pail keeping time with the music
as I’d sing them with him. It actually
made milking by hand kind of fun
and I didn’t realize at the time I was
being taught something worthwhile.
Now I know I was being taught
things I would remember for a
lifetime. We know everyone has
precious memories from their
childhood. I trust you will have
patience with me as I share some of
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mine with you.
I look back over our Christmas
program and have such happy
memories of it. In our little church
it took absolutely everyone, even
Bob and me, to take part and we all
enjoyed doing that. We all sat down
and enjoyed a delicious catered meal
at the close of it, and our hearts were
warm with the knowledge that “the
Lord had come as a Little Babe, to
teach His ways to Eternal Life.”
Bro. Tom Troxel (Sis. Luann) of
LaCrosse shared the Christmas
account with our Valpo church and
we thank them for the love that
prompted their visit. May God bless
them for it. Their visits are always a
blessing.
May the coming year hold rich
blessings for you and yours, and
may we all appreciate in full the
blessings that our God has given us.
Please visit our little church in
Valpo when you are in our vicinity
and know in your heart how
welcome you will be.
INDIANA, WEST LAFAYETTE
Ben Stoller
Katie Widmer
December has come and gone in
a whirl of excitement (and recently
snow) as we have been celebrating
the birth of our Savior with family
and friends.
The first weekend of the month
the PYG participated in a “big build
project,” a fundraiser for Lifesong
for Orphans. We were blessed with
a beautiful Saturday as we fixed up
a local widow’s home. All support
for our project went to Lifesong.
Thank you for all who donated and
supported through prayer! It was
a blessing to work side by side in
friendship and unity as we focused
in helping others.
Just two weeks later, students
from Lifesong’s school in Zambia
January 2013
came and sang to the West Lafayette
church. There was a great turnout
to hear the talented children’s voices
sing praises to God.
The month was also filled with
many Christmas songs with the:
PYG program, Sunday School
program, and church caroling. It
was a blessing to sing about the
Good News and to hear about it
from the children as well!
We are excited that Kyle Isch
(from Bluffton) has made the
decision to become a part of our
church family!
Congratulations to Bro. Brett
Gerber (Wolcott) and Sis. Elizabeth
Rayburn (Francesville) in their
engagement.
Praise be to God for His gift to
us in sending His son that we are
enabled to serve Him without fear
(Luke 1:74-75). Blessings to you
and yours as you serve Him in the
coming year.
INDIANA, WOLCOTT
Sasha Kyburz
Donita Edelman
Bro. Jeff Wiegand (Sis. Janel,
Goodfield, IL) was with us for a
Bible Study recently. We wish to
extend our thanks to him for being
used in the Lord’s service.
Elder Bros. Marvin Dotterer (Sis.
Nancy, Forrest, IL) and Dan Kilgus
(Sis. Jenna, Remington, IN) shared
the Memorandum with us one
weekend in November. May the
Lord bless these elder brothers for
all the time and effort they put forth
for the brotherhood.
We extend our sympathy to Sis.
Nancy Christopher in the passing
of her husband, “Whitey”. May the
Lord be her Comforter during this
time of sorrow.
We heard of the engagement of
Bro. Brett Gerber (Bro. Bob and Sis.
Luann) to Sis. Elizabeth Rayburn
January 2013
(Bro. Jim and Sis. Barbara) of
Francesville, IN. We wish this dear
couple the blessings of the Lord as
they prepare for their wedding day.
It is with thanksgiving that we
report that Takara Lehman has
chosen to give her heart to the
Lord and live for him. Takara is the
daughter of Bro. John and the late
Sis. RuthAnn. We pray for Takara
that she can feel the Lord working
in her heart.
Samuel Asher was born to excited
first-time parents, Bro. Ryan and
Sis. Kim Schleman on November
10. Thankful grandparents are Bro.
Irv and Sis. Shirley Furrer and Chic
and Paula Schleman. May the Lord
guide this dear couple in raising a
precious little boy for Him.
We would like to thank the
following ministers for lending
themselves on our behalf in the
last couple of months. Bros. Alan
Schambach (Sis. Sarah, Remington,
IN), Dale Banwart (Sis. Missy,
Congerville, IL), Mark Wetstein
(Sis. Karen, LaCrosse, IN), and
Elder Bro. Ted Steffen (Sis. Sandy,
Alto, MI). May God be their rich
rewarder.
We have just gone through the
Christmas Season and certainly felt
the blessing of this season through
the Christmas Program shared
by our Sunday School youth and
through caroling to the older and
shut-ins. We would like to thank the
Sunday School teachers for all the
efforts for these two events.
Iowa, Ames
Jacob Schulz
We had a visiting minister one
Sunday this month. We would like
to thank Bro. Tom Lanz (Sis. Mary,
Oakville, IA) for bringing forth the
Word. May God bless him for his
willing service.
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IOWA, Bloomfield
Teresa Schock
Elder Bro. Gerry Hertzel (Sis.
Ellen, Sabetha, KS) assisted our
Elder Bro. Doug Schock with the
testimony and baptism of Kari
Wuthrich (Bro. Ken and Sis. Lori).
We welcome her as our new sister
in faith. Bro. Roger Aberle (Sis.
Lavonne, Sabetha, KS) was also here
that weekend and Bro. Kim Sutter
(Sis. Vonette, Taylor, MO) was here
on Sunday. We thank them all for
being with us.
Our sympathy is extended to Sis.
Wilma Teubel in the loss of her
grandson, Eric. Also to Bro. Paul,
Sis. Charlotte Teubel and family.
Eric is survived by his mother,
Carolyn, and his sister, Holly. His
father, Bro. Dennis, preceded him in
death. May they feel our prayers and
God’s strength.
We recently read from Acts 27.
While visiting another congregation,
we bumped into a retired elder
who briefly said, “Hold on.” What
good advice in this day. Let’s hold
on to our ship of faith. For when
the storms are fierce and we have to
retreat into the “hold”. We will find
many an older brother there and
will also find that the beams are as
strong as the day they were built.
IOWA, BURLINGTON
Marilyn Anderson
Monica Eisenmann
Iowa, Elgin
Maria Rocke
Grandparents, Albert and Trudy
Hanson, and parents, Jesse and
Molly Johnson (Gillete, WY), are
thankful for the addition of little
Ayla Jane in their lives. She was
born on July 11, 2012.
Alex Callahan spent some time
in the hospital. We’re thankful he is
feeling well again.
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“As with gladness men of old
Did the guiding star behold,
As with joy they hailed its light,
Leading onward, beaming bright,
So, most gracious Lord, may we
Evermore be led to Thee.”
(Hymns of Christmas #4)
The Sunday school brought us
the beautiful message of Jesus’ birth
through verses and hymns in their
Christmas program. We appreciate
hearing from these tender souls who
put much effort into learning their
parts to share with us.
Our congregation spent an
evening assembling encouragement
baskets followed by Christmas
caroling. Together as a believing
family, it’s a blessing to be able to
share what God has given us with
those who’ve experienced hardship
or sorrow.
ioWA, Garden Grove
Laura Funk
Andrea Moser, daughter of Bro.
Tom and Sis. Dawn Moser, professes
peace with God and man. We
look forward to her testimony and
baptism.
Visiting our congregation recently
were Elder Bro. Mike Leman
(Denver, CO), Elder Bro. Doug
Schock (Bloomfield, IA) and Bro.
Dale Moore (Elgin, IA). May God
bless you.
Lead On, O Star
“Lead on, O star, so wise men three
To Bethlehem may follow thee;
And shine upon the stable there,
Where Jesus sleeps so young and fair.
Lead on, O star, for us today,
That we may follow in the way;
And lead us to the Heavenly King,
That we our hearts to Him may
bring.
Lead on, O star, for we would know
For ever more the way to go;
Lead on, O star, till life is past,
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26
Till Christ we see in heav’n at last.
Lead on, O star, O heavenly light,
And guide the steps of men aright;
Lead on, O star, and point the way,
That leads to endless day.”
We pray for God’s guidance,
nearness and blessings in the
coming year.
Iowa, Iowa City
Diana Butikofer
We were blessed by the Sunday
School children’s Christmas
Program as they told of Christ’s
birth and the light He brought to
the world. The children quoted
from Tabernacle Hymns #7 “The
Heavenly Vision”.
“O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There’s a light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free!
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face;
And the things of earth will grow
strangely dim
In the Light of His glory and grace.”
We appreciate the work of the
children and teachers in preparing
and presenting this wonderful news
to us.
We appreciate the willingness
of Bro. Tom and Sis. Mary Lanz
(Oakville, IA) to come serve us on
short notice. We pray the Lord will
continue to bless them for their love
and service.
IOWA, Lester
Joyce Moser
Gloria Moser
“And she shall bring forth a Son, and
thou shalt call His name Jesus: for He
shall save His people from their sins.”
(Matthew 1:21)
During the Christmas season,
we are once again reminded of the
January 2013
miracle of Christ’s birth through
Bro. Gene Metzger (712) 472-2187
our many Christmas activities.
or Bro. Wes Moser (712) 478-4622
Our Sunday School Program was
with any questions.
held December 16 and we enjoyed
IOWA, OAKVILLE
hearing 164 children remind us of
Sharla Wiegand
“the story that never grows old”. We
certainly appreciate all the work the
“How beautiful are the feet of them
teachers and students put into the
that preach the gospel of peace, and
program and ask God to bless them.
bring glad tidings of good things!”
We were thankful to have Bro.
(Romans 10:15)
Bruce Frank (Cissna Park, IL)
share the Word with us over the
We were blessed with many
Thanksgiving weekend. May God
visiting ministers: Bro. Matt Steffen
bless him for his willing service.
(Princeville IL), Bro. Scott Wegman
We continue to pray for those who (Taylor MO), Bro. Jim Butikofer and
have recently been hospitalized.
Bro. Joe Gerst (Iowa City IA). Bro.
They are: Sis. Chris Metzger (Bro.
Matt Steffen also gave a presentation
Dale), Bro. Howard Mogler (Sis.
at the Fellowship Center regarding
Lillian), and Bro. Willy Knobloch
Apostolic Christian Home for the
(Sis. Helen). May they lean on the
Handicapped/Timber Ridge in
Great Physician for strength and
Morton, IL.
healing.
“A time to be born..” (Ecclesiastes 3:2)
Our congregation rejoices with
our Elder Bro. Rod Bajema and
Bro. Regan and Sis. Tricia
his family as he announced his
Lanz welcomed Baylor Jean into
engagement to Sis. Sue Knoblock
their family on November 30.
(Bro. Gus and Sis. Florence) on
Her siblings are Raiann, Claire,
November 25. We want to wish
Bryant, EmmaLee and Jackson.
them God’s richest blessings as they Grandparents are Bro. Robert Lanz
prepare to become united as one in
and Dave and Phyllis Tapp.
Christ.
“Except the LORD build the house,
Our love and sympathy is shared
they labour in vain that build it.”
with the family of Sis. Amelia
(Psalm 127:1)
Roemen, who passed into eternity
on December 6. Her family includes
We anticipate moving to our
her children, Marlene Tullar, Marvin new church building in mid(Joyce) Roemen, Ella Bartels,
January. Open house is scheduled
Leonard (Donna) Roemen, Dean
for February 23 and dedication on
Roemen, Roy (Susan) Roemen,
February 24.
David Roemen, Glenn Roemen,
Iowa, West Bend
Sheila (John) Feekes, Terry (Jana)
Janet Fehr
Roemen, Les (Linda) Roemen, and
Leona Fehr
Nettie Roemen, along with her
sister Leah Doorneweerd and sisterOn November 26, Bro. Dean
in-law, Sis. Alice Wulf, and other
Messner (Sis. Wanda, Winthrop,
extended family members.
MN) came to share the Word. We
Just a reminder that the annual
are so thankful for faithful brethren
summer church service at Clyde
who empty of self and proclaim
Park, MT will be held the weekend
God’s message through the Spirit.
of June 22 & 23, 2013. Please contact May the Lord bless those labors.
January 2013
We experienced the miracle of
birth on November 28 when Jalen
Lewis was born to John and Audrey
Zaugg. He is heartily welcomed
home by big brothers, Jaxon and
Abner. We are thankful for his safe
arrival and pray God will bless this
dear family.
With the winter flu season
among us, it seems our small
children succumbs to it quickly.
Spending a little time in the
hospital for hydration was Cloe
Messner, daughter of Bro. Darin
and Sis. Twila Massner. We had one
other hospital patient, Sis. Verda
Bruellman and we are thankful she
has returned to her apartment and
is recovering nicely.
Our Sunday school children
brought out the Christmas story
with such sweet, innocent pureness.
Their little verses about the Savior’s
birth remind us again that this
beautiful story never grows old!
Now we turn our calendars to a
new year and time marches on,
changing, ever changing. Let us
cling to God’s unchanging Word for
direction every day.
“At thy feet, O Lord we linger;
Speak to us in accents clear!
Let us hear Thy Word so tender
Eagerly, with Godly fear.
Teach us follow Thy example:
Teach us to devote our time;
This so short a time, though ample.
For eternity sublime.
Open, Lord, our understanding
As to Thy disciples there.
May our hearts be e’er demanding
Wisdom’s light with Thee to share.
Heav’nly light that oft has banished
Many dark and dreary spots
Light, O Lord in us replenish
In thy light we stumble not.”
(Zion’s Harp #203 v. 2,4)
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JAPAN, SHIODA
Carrie Ito
The last two months have been
busy for us as we move forward on
our new church. As of last Sunday,
the framework is up and the roofing
material is being laid. It is exciting
to see! We are thankful for the help
of the American churches to help us
fund this project.
We enjoyed a visit from our
Elder Bro. Mark and Sis. Bev Bahr
who visited in November for Holy
Communion and the fall fellowship
meeting. May God bless them for
their encouragement and prayers.
JAPAN, Tokyo
Manuela Denes
Marie Inoue
“For unto us a child is born, unto us
a son is given: and the government
shall be upon his shoulder: and his
name shall be called Wonderful,
Counsellor, The mighty God, The
everlasting Father, The Prince of
Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)
This past Sunday many of us
gathered in the afternoon to share
the Christmas message. What a
blessing to see such a large number
of our Sunday school children
and their parents! The pews were
filled as the children shared the
message of our Saviour’s birth with
songs and scripture. We pray that
all who attended were blessed by
this precious story. Refreshments
were enjoyed afterward and it was a
wonderful opportunity to fellowship
with parents who do not attend
regularly. May the Lord bless them
in this Holy season and move their
hearts.
Another seasonal event took
place when we gathered together to
sing Christmas carols at two local
nursing homes. What a joy to see
27
and hear the voices of the residents
as some of them knew the words to
many of our songs! A short message
of the true meaning of the season
was shared and all present were
touched by the experience.
We are prayerful that Sis.
Hannah Klaus can have a speedy
recovery after having recently
been in hospital for an emergency
appendectomy. While she’s had to
slow down a bit, she seems to be
progressing well.
Earlier this month we were
saddened by the loss of our dear Sis.
Shizuko Urushino. She had been
hospitalized for about four years
with a Parkinson’s-related illness.
Her funeral service was held in
Yokohama, but we look forward to
having a memorial service for her in
the Tokyo church this January. What
a blessing to know that she can now
be at peace in her heavenly home.
We’re grateful that Sis. Marie
Inoue had a blessed visit and safe
travels to and from the United
States. A loving, although short,
time was spent with relatives and
friends.
As the year draws to a close, let
us remember the true reason that
we celebrate this season. The birth
of our dear Lord and Saviour Jesus
Christ was just the start—His death
and resurrection were His greatest
gift to us! KANSAS, BERN
Sheri Edelman
Rita Menold
kANSAS, FORT SCOTT
Teresa Bahr
KAnsas, Kiowa
Janice Bahr
Jenny Stewart
(1)We Three Kings of Orient are;
Bearing gifts we traverse afar, Field
28
and fountain moor and mountain,
following yonder star. (2) Born a
king on Bethlehem’s plain: Gold I
bring to crown “Him” again, “King”
forever, cesing never over us all to
reign. (3)Frankincense to offer have
I: Incense owns a deity nigh; Prayer
and praising, all men raising worship
“Him”, God on high. (4)Myrrh is
mine: It’s bitter perfume breathes a
life of gathering gloom, sorrowing,
sighing, bleeding, dying, sealed in
the stone cold tomb. (5)Glorious
now behold “Him”arise. “King” and
“God” and “Sacrifice”, Alleluia,
Alleluia! Earth to Heaven replies. O
Star of Wonder, Star of Night, Star
with royal beauty bright, Westward
leading, still proceeding, guide us to
thy perfect light.
(Caroling Book #327)
Have you ever considered the long
trip the Wise Men undertook, to
follow a Star created by God that
led to the birth of His son, Jesus, in
a humble manger in Bethlehem?
When they arrived, Mary and
Joseph and the Christ Child, Jesus,
were in a house in Bethlehem. But
the significance of the gifts they
brought: the gold, frankincense
and myrrh (30-33) years before
Christ’s death were definitely a
sign to them from God about Jesus
birth, His life, and His death. The
gold represents His Kingship. The
frankincense represents the prayers
of the people. Myrrh represents the
cruelty and bitterness of the death
of Jesus. To save a world of people
who deserved the death He suffered,
but were pardoned by His Precious
and Atoning Blood which was shed
on the Cross. Our Jesus, God’s Son,
is truly the Reason for this beautiful
Christmas Season. May we never
forget how blessed we are, no matter
how busy we become!
We had several uplifting
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reminders of Jesus’ birthday this
past month, with our Christmas
program and caroling (which was
especially nice as young people
from area Kansas churches and
Manhatten K-State joined us for the
occasion even though facing finals
the next week). God bless each of
you for sharing your time with us.
We failed to mention that Glen
Piper underwent emergency gall
bladder surgery at Mayos. The
doctors did not know if he would
make it through, but the prayers
of those who raise him up to God
worked a miracle. We are so happy
he is still with us. Some people think
prayer is not important, but we see
God’s hand in so many good things,
if we only pray!!
As we begin another year may
we think of the words to Hymns of
Zion #150.
“Another year is dawning, dear
Master, let it be, in working or
in waiting another year with
thee. Another year of mercies, of
faithfulness and grace. Another year
of gladness in the shining of thy
face. Another year is dawning, Dear
master let it be, on earth or else in
Heaven another year for thee.”
Kansas, Lamont-Gridley
Sarah Somerhalder
We extend our sympathy to Clay
Wilkinson at the unexpected death
of his father, Greg.
On December 9, our church
enjoyed hearing the Sunday school
tell the old story of our dear Lord’s
birth. We appreciate the efforts
of the teachers and students in
preparing for this special program.
January 2013
KANSAS, SABETHA
Sally Strahm
Dawn Strahm
On December 16, Bro. Levi
Grimm (Bro. Kevin and Sis. Nita)
was united in marriage to Sis. Jodi
Wenger (Bro. Richard and Sis. Jill,
Forrest, IL). We pray that God will
bless this union as they become one
in the Lord.
Landry Jarrett was born in
November to Bro. Trent and Sis.
Rosie Strahm. Siblings: Nyah and
Malachi welcomed Landry home
after his extended stay in the
hospital. Grandparents are Bro. Dale
and Sis. Rachel Zeltwanger (Morris
North, MN) and the late Bro. Carl
and Sis. Sharon Strahm.
Bro. Harvey Wenger (Sis. Arleta)
and Landry Strahm (Bro. Trent and
Sis. Rosie) have both spent time in
the hospital this past month. We
are thankful when God extends His
healing hand to our loved ones.
Bro. Rick and Sis. Komari Aberle
and family have our sympathy
as they have bid farewell to Sis.
Komari’s dad, Samroeun Neal
(Moundridge, KS). May God be
their comfort as they continue this
journey without him.
We appreciated the Word being
shared and expounded upon
by visiting ministers: Bro. Dale
Zeltwanger (Sis. Rachel, Morris
North, MN), Bro. John Baumgartner
(Sis. Lori, Bern, KS) and Bro. Edwin
Strahm (Sis. Ramona, Bern, KS).
Each servant’s labor of love will
surely be blessed by God.
With joyful hearts the children
shared the Gospel message of our
Redeemer’s birth and resurrection
in the annual Sunday school
program. May we strive to be as a
humble child to receive the gift God
has offered.
January 2013
“Be not content this babe to know,
Nor stay at Bethlehem, But go with
Christ to Calvary’s brow, Beyond
Jerusalem. ‘Tis there men learn to
know the Christ, For there He bore
man’s sin. Then open wide the door of
heart. And let the Saviour in”.
(The Babe of Bethlehem
Hymns of Zion #36)
KANSAS, Wichita
Emma Miller
Sis. Gail Grimm has been in Iowa
with her son, Greg, who had total
knee replacement. We miss her and
pray for Greg and for her.
Bro. Max and Sis. Judy
Reimschisel went to Denver, CO
to work at the Samaritan Purse
Christmas shoebox warehouse. The
mission there was to send aid to
the Philippines and to Mexico. The
organization planned to send out
800,000 shoeboxes to children and
soldiers overseas.
Instead of Bible Study this month,
the group has been Christmas
caroling. It’s a special blessing
when they come to El Dorado. The
children participate and seem to
enjoy the traveling and fellowship.
We look forward to the upcoming
children’s Christmas program on
December 23. The Christmas theme
is the outgrowth of their Sunday
School lessons.
Kentucky, Lexington
Barb Huber
Our hearts were warmed each
Lord’s day as visiting ministers came
to share and sound forth God’s
Holy Word. We thank our recent
ministers who were: Elder Bro. Dave
Steffen (Sis. Linda, Elgin, IL), Bros.
Dan Beer (Sis. Deb, Milford, IN),
Frank Sauder (Sis. Kathy, Roanoke,
IL), and Art Ingold (Sis. Bonnie,
Rittman, OH). Though small in
number, we were able to assemble
SILVER LINING
unhindered and we were most
grateful. May the Lord bless each
minister and their families for their
many efforts to travel the many
miles and fellowship with us.
Jesse Sauder, son of Bro. Frank
and Sis. Kathy Sauder, has finished
his schooling at the Kentucky
Community and Technical College.
He is beginning his internship in
Florida. We appreciated having Jesse
here and continue to pray that the
Lord will bless and direct him in the
way he should go.
Our heartfelt sympathy is
extended to the McCullough
and Marshall families, as Ella
Mae McCullough passed away
recently after a short illness. She
was a kindhearted mother and
grandmother who came to church
at times and always welcomed us to
visit in her home. We will miss Ella
Mae.
We welcome all who may be in
our area or travelling through to
worship with us. You may contact
Bro. Lester Huber (859) 745-2541.
Church services are held at 3938
Becknerville Rd., Winchester, KY.
Directions are in the Minister’s
Book.
Mexico, Ixtlán
Matt Gerber
“And without controversy great is
the mystery of godliness: God was
manifest in the flesh, justified in the
Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto
the Gentiles, believed on in the world,
received up into glory.” (1 Tim. 3:16)
One of the Spanish Christmas
hymns we sing is titled “Born to
Die”. As we celebrate our Savior’s
birth, it takes us to the cross, where
Christ suffered for our sins. “Great
is the mystery of godliness”, wrote
the Apostle Paul (1 Tim. 3:16)—to
think that God would become man,
29
die in our place, rise again to live
forever in order to transform us and
undo the terrible effects of sin in
our nature! As we wait longingly for
Christ to undo the damage of sin in
the whole universe at His coming,
we can be thankful that His work
of redemption has already begun in
our hearts and lives. Hallelujah!
Mexico, Magdalena
Michigan, ALTO
Listyn Oesch
Melissa Blough
“Therefore we are buried with him
by baptism into death: that as Christ
was raised up from the dead by
the glory of the Father, even so we
also should walk in newness of life.”
(Romans 6:4)
Our congregation was blessed to
witness the proving and baptism of
Kasi Crumbo. We welcome her as
a sister in Christ, and pray God’s
peace fills her life each and every
day.
Visiting ministers this past
month were Bro. Steve Sauder
(Sis. Mary, Tremont, IL) and Bro.
Dennis Kaufmann (Sis. Bonnie,
Bloomington, IL). We thank them
for their labor of love.
Our hearts ache with Sis. Donna
Oesch (Bro. Fred) as she said
farewell to her dear mother, Helen
Thornburg. We pray the Spirit’s
comfort will fill the hole left behind.
Beyond Compare
“Of all the words redeeming fair
These words of Christ beyond
compare,
I WILL NOT LEAVE YOU
COMFORTLESS
The Holy Spirit too shall bless.
He then said,
I WILL COME TO YOU.
30
O precious hope my whole life
through;
To ponder o’er a love like this
Now fills my heart with sacred bliss,
For though He faced cruel Calv’rys
tree,
He still was thinking just of me.”
(Audrey McDaniel)
Bro. Lloyd Blough (Sis. Ella
Louise) has recently been in the
hospital. We pray for his healing,
strength and recovery. May God
comfort him through the burden of
physical pain.
Happiness rings in the hearts of
two dear families this month as they
welcome home new joyful additions.
Bro. Casey and Sis. Rachel Banks
were blessed with a baby boy,
Raymond Casey. Caleb, Luke, Silas,
and Karina embrace their brother
with open arms and warm smiles.
Brad and Laura Jackson, their
daughter, Brooklyn, and Grandpa,
Bro. Paul Jackson, are thankful for
Trayer Michael. May God bless His
precious children as they grow, and
grant the parents wisdom as they
raise them in His ways.
Michigan, Bay City
Sarah Knochel
Janelle Ramseyer
Our Sunday School Christmas
program was held on December
16. It was such a blessing to see and
hear the innocence of our youth as
they shared the message of Christ’s
birth.
We are thankful that Bro. Jeff
Waibel (Sis. Margo, Leo, IN)
traveled to Bay City to share
Christmas with his family and also
be used as a visiting minister. We
pray that the Lord would bless him
for his service.
We pray for Bro. Floyd Knochel
as he has spent time in the hospital
recently. We trust that God will
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provide healing all according to His
will.
Bro. Andreas Schlatter (Bro.
Jay & Sis. Carola) has moved
to the Columbus, OH area for
employment. Even though it is hard
to lose another young person from
our congregation, we know that he
will be a blessing to the Columbus
congregation!
By the time this Silver Lining
is printed, we will be almost one
month into 2013. We pray that God
will bless each one that puts their
trust and confidence in Him.
“The Lord is righteous in all his ways,
and holy in all his works. The Lord
is nigh unto all them that call upon
him, to all that call upon him in
truth.” (Psalm 145:17-18)
Note of Thanks:
I would like to thank all those who
sent cards, words of encouragement
and prayers during my recent trial.
May God bless each one.
Bro. Glenn Ruegsegger
MICHIGAN, DETROIT
Krista Wieland
“I can do all things through Christ
which strengthens me.”
(Philippians 4:13)
We continue to keep Sis. Jeanie
Allen in our prayers. We ask for
your prayers also. She has been
diagnosed with a brain tumor and
is going through treatment. We
also prayerfully lift up her husband,
Bro. Pat; daughter Ann Marie; and
grandsons, Cody and Luke. We
think of them so often as they walk
through this extremely difficult
time.
We extend our sympathy to Sis.
Vi Barton and her family in the loss
of her brother Dan’s wife, Helen
Koprince.
January 2013
We would like to thank Bro.
Howard Plattner (Sis. Kristen, Alto,
MI) for visiting us and preaching
the gospel.
We wish to thank Toledo minister
Bro. Doug Harmon, as well Bro.
Gale Stoller, Sis. Jessica Wenninger
and Sis. Kristi Baran, all of whom
came to Woodhaven for the
December evening vesper service.
We also want to thank the Windsor
Canada Apostolic Christian Adult
Choir for coming and singing for
the residents at Woodhaven. Many
people from the church also came
over to enjoy this.
We have two new babies to report!
On November 8, Addison Joy was
born to Bro. Lucas and Sis. Crystal
Frank. She is welcomed home
by siblings: Logan, Kaleigh, and
Carson. On November 27, Jonah
Glen made his appearance. His
parents are Bro. Ben and Sis. Sarah
Harmon. Jonah’s brother is Elijah.
It is so exciting for a church to
welcome these little ones. We wish
their parents godly wisdom and joy
as they raise them.
Our annual Christmas Caroling
was a blessing to all. I heard a
comment afterward from one 4th
grader that he had never “had
so much fun”. This reminded me
that the Christmas Caroling was
teaching our kids joy and gratitude
as well as providing song to the
people we visited.
Our Church’s annual Christmas
program was held December 16.
The children did a wonderful job
as they sang songs and recited
scripture about what Christmas is
truly about: the birth of our Lord
Jesus. Our choir also sang some
wonderful songs. We are thankful
for our Sunday School teachers and
all others who helped get ready
for our program. Following the
program we enjoyed snacks!
January 2013
As we look forward to Christmas,
let’s think about the unfortunate
who are grieving this Christmas.
There are people all over the world
who have lost loved ones and/or
have no resources to buy gifts for
their children. Let’s especially pray
for all of the families in Connecticut
who will be missing a member of
their family this Christmas. Let’s
also pray for the family of the young
man who caused this trauma as we
know they are suffering too. Finally,
let’s never forget to hug our kids as
they leave for school or anywhere
else and tell them we love them.
We are reminded in a big way how
uncertain life is and how precious
our children are. Most of us,
including me, can’t fathom the pain
these parents are going through, but
we know prayer makes a difference.
Minnesota, Minneapolis
Brenda Messner
Betty Rassi Lindwall As I start to write this, we hear of
the terrible tragedy in Newtown,
CT. Our hearts and prayers go
out to the families of Sandy Hook
Elementary School who will have
empty places at their tables this
Christmas. Our trust must remain
in our Heavenly Father who is still
seated on the throne of the universe
and for reasons, at times unclear to
us, has allowed evil to be present
in our world as part of His gift of
free will which He chose to give us
mortal beings. We must cling to our
faith in our loving God, Lord, and
Savior who, no doubt, is weeping
with us right now. “Let us not grow weary while doing
good, for in due season we shall reap,
if we do not lose heart.”
(Galatians 6:9) We praise God for His continued
Healing Touch as Cory Schmidt is
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back to work, as our dear Sis. Diane
Stewart continues to improve, and
as Sis. Vera Schmidt recovers from
her recent surgery. MINNESOTA, MORRIS
Amy Ekren
Heidi Pfaffmann
“Thank ye the Lord! Give thanks
to the Lord. For He is gracious,
His mercy It endureth evermore…”
(Hymns of Zion #245, vs. 1)
We truly have much to be
thankful for as we reflect on our
blessings this Thanksgiving season.
We are thankful and appreciative for
visiting Elder Bros. Jon Schmidgall
(Sis. Julie, Oakville, IA) and Jay
Luthi (Sis. Jane, Lamont-Gridley,
KS) along with ministering Bros.
Todd Stoller (Sis. Pam, Latty,
OH) and Dave Hartter (Sis. Beth,
Sabetha, KS) who have come to
share the Word. We are also very
thankful for the new ministers God
has placed in our church: Bro. James
Koehl (Sis. Hildy) and Bro. Kevin
Wulf (Sis. Annie). We trust the Lord
will be with them in the days ahead
and reward them for their labors.
Our prayers are with Sis. Violet
Wulf, Sis. Dorothy Schmidgall,
Arlene Greiner, Jon Moser, Eric
Wulf and Bryan Tolifson who have
spent time in the hospital this past
month.
Bro. Caleb and Sis. Heidi
Pfaffmann are thankful for their
baby boy, Brady Robert. Brady is
welcomed home by big brother,
Logan. Grandparents are Bro.
Stan and Sis. Pam Wulf and Bro.
Robert and Sis. Lily Pfaffmann of
Washington, IL. Great grandmother
is Sis. Barb Edelman of Sabetha, KS.
We rejoice greatly with our new
converts, Jon and Lori Moser, as
they have begun their repentance.
Jon’s mother is Sis. Norene Moser.
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“Heavenward, then take your
journey; Let your course in faith be
trod; Face the crafty adversary boldly
as a man of God. Go with courage
to the conflict as the sanctified to be;
and retaining still your treasure, win
a crown of victory.”
(Zion’s Harp #52, vs. 6)
MINNESOTA, MORRIS North
Lois Schmidgall
Wanda Gramm
“For unto you is born this day in the
city of David a SAVIOR, which is
Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11) “Behold,
a virgin shall be with child, and shall
bring forth a son, and they shall call
his name Emmanuel which being
interpreted is GOD WITH US.”
(Matthew 1:23)
Let us reflect on the “REASON
FOR THE SEASON” .
We thank visiting minister Bro.
Virgil Metzger (Sis. Mary) for
coming and sharing GOD’S Word
with us. We appreciate your love
and willingness to serve.
We are rejoicing with Mark
and Becky Reuter (Bro. Jim & Sis
Carolyn), Emily Moser (Bro. Doug
& Sis. Dawn), Kelsy Knobloch
(Mark and Sis. Brenda,) and Natalie
Feuchtenberger (Bro. Duane & Sis
Kay) as they have expressed their
desire for repentance. We pray
for GOD’S grace, encouragement,
wisdom, and joy as they commit
their lives for our LORD and
SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST.
All-church Christmas caroling
was enjoyed by many with
the evening finale of enjoying
appetizers and goodies along while
fellowshipping.
The Christmas Story was
expressed by our Sunday School
at the Christmas program which
included the origin/history of a few
Christmas carols. A special thank
32
you to our youth and we pray for
GOD’S blessings for each and every
one.
Bro. Harold Gramm (Sis Ila) was a
recent hospital patient. We pray for
GOD’S healing mercies upon him.
MINNESOTA, ROCHESTER
Mark Stork
We are thankful for those who
are willing to travel here to preach
God’s Word. Bro. Duane Metzger
(Sis. Ruth, West Bend, IA) was here
on a Sunday and Bro. Clint Schmidt
(Sis. Maggie, Winthrop, MN) was
here for our Wednesday evening
service.
As we start a new year, let us each
strive to serve our Lord and Saviour
more fervently.
For those who have used the
Guest House in the past month, we
pray God will heal according to His
will.
MINNESOTA, WINTHROP
Rebecca Messner
Heather Steiner
During this Christmas season
we have been very blessed to
spend time together as a church
remembering the birth of our
Savior. The Sunday School children
put on a beautiful program, and we
wish to thank them along with their
parents and teachers. It’s always
a special time for the church. We
also enjoyed our annual all-church
caroling event, where we were able
to spread Christmas cheer to many
in our local nursing homes.
One blessing of the Christmas
season is that Elder Bro. Ron
Messner (Sis. Pam, Washington, IL)
typically returns home for a visit.
We always appreciate his willingness
to share the Word. May God bless
him.
Our prayers continue with Kenny
Howk as he faces ongoing health
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challenges. May the Lord grant
healing according to His will.
Missouri, Kansas City
Brittany Fehr
Missouri, Lamar
Venetta Banwart
We would like to thank our
visiting ministers this month for
feeding us from God’s Holy Word.
They were: Elder Bro. Wayne
Banwart (Sis. Charlene, Champaign,
IL), Bro. Gary Endress (Sis. Evelyn,
Bradford, IL), Retired Elder Bro.
Don Braker (Sis. Elieen, Kansas
City, MO), Bro. Dale Moore (Sis.
Cheryl, Elgin, IA), and Bro. Brian
Metzger (Sis. Angie, Lester, IA).
May each feel God’s nearness and
grace.
Our hospital patients this month
were Bro. Leonard Braker (Sis.
Bonnie) and Bro. Dale Marti (Sis.
Corrine). May they each continue to
feel God’s healing hand as they heal
from their illness and surgery.
MISSOURI, ST. LOUIS
Kary Mangers
MISSOURI, TAYLOR
Kathy Eberhardt
As we start the year 2013, many of
us set new goals for the coming year.
It may be spending more time with
our families. We see how precious
life can be by the events that
unfolded in Connecticut. We live
in a time where many distractions
that can keep us from the heart
of God. We can dedicate our lives
more on worshiping our God and
appreciating what Jesus has, is, and
will do for us. Our goals may be
helping others in their time of need.
Nature seems to bring tornadoes,
hurricanes, floods, etc. There are
many families that need our help
all over the world. The list of goals
January 2013
that we can do to help others seems
unlimited. What will happen in the
coming year?
The wedding engagement of Bro.
Garrett Yackley (Bro. Joe and Sis.
Jerilyn) to Sis Courtney Funk (Bro.
Mark and Sis. Becky, Gridley, IL)
was recently made known. May
God multiply his blessings on these
families.
On November 19, was the
wedding of Bro. Ben Lindburg
and Sis. Anneliese Hoerr. Visiting
ministers that shared the Word of
God on that day were Elder Bro.
Tom Waldbeser (Sis. Susan, Atlanta,
GA), Bro. Chris Huber (Sis. Sharon,
Francesville, IN) and Bro. James
Emsch (Sis. Gina, Phoenix, AZ).
The World Relief meeting was
held recently in Taylor. Ministers
that weekend were Elder Bro.
Duane Farney (Sis. Karen, CroghanNaumburg, NY), Elder Bro. Steve
Ringger (Sis. Myra, Bluffton North,
IN), Elder Bro. John Laukhuf (Sis.
Marcia, Latty, OH), Bro. Joe Klotzle
(Sis. Sue, Altadena, CA) and Bro.
Virgil Kaeb (Sis. Suellen, Sarasota,
FL). We also appreciate all those
involved with the informational
meeting on Saturday night.
Hospital patients this month
included Bro. Jim Sutter and Sis.
Kris Sutter. We pray for God’s
healing power for a quick recovery
for these souls.
We wish God’s blessings for all in
the New Year.
New York, CroghanNaumburg
Hope Graves
Rockville, CT brethren visited
us December 9 and also served us
lunch. Ministering Bro. Dan Goric
(Sis. MaryLou) came with them and
we received an added blessing as he
was willing to be used to bring forth
the Word.
January 2013
St. Luke 2:11-12 “For unto you is
born this day in the city of David a
Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you;
Ye shall find the babe wrapped in
swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”
During this Christmas season
we have caroled at the local
hospital (December 9), East Road
Adult Home (December 16) and
Steepleview Courts (December 23).
Our Sunday School children had
their Christmas program Sunday
December 23. It was such a blessing
to see and hear them tell of our Lord
and Savior’s birth so many years
ago! May we not tire of hearing this
and keep the real meaning of Jesus
birth and death close to our hearts.
We are mindful of Gary Rivers
as his mom, Wilma, passed
away October 21. Also the days
can get long for Gary as he is in
the extended care facility. He
appreciates any visitors and always
asks for a prayer. May we not take
for granted our ability to go in and
out as there are many who cannot.
We are instructed in James to visit
the fatherless and widows in their
affliction.
We also extend our sincere love
and sympathy to the dear family
of our Sis. Elveria Martin who
peacefully passed on to eternity
October 30. She leaves a daughter,
Joyce (Dean) Greenwood; a son,
Timothy; grandchildren; greatgrandchildren and many brothers
and sisters. It was wonderful to have
the church full for her funeral on
December 2.
Ohio, Akron
Erika Gal
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OHIO, COLUMBUS
Lauren Rufener
Recently, our church visited
nursing homes and sang Christmas
Carols. It was a joy to praise God
together with the residents.
We appreciate visiting ministers:
Bro. Tom and Sis. Connie
Schambach (Elgin, IL) and Bro. Vic
and Sis. Brenda Bauman (Smithville,
OH) for sharing God’s Word.
OHIO, JUNCTION
Vicki Boroff
OHIO, LATTY
Carmen Stoller
Mindy Stoller
Greetings of love to each of you!
We have several visiting ministers to
report this month. They include Bro.
Matt Feucht (Sis. Jennifer, Roanoke,
IL), Bro. Warren Schlatter (Sis.
Cindy, Junction, OH), Bro. Mike
Rinkenberger (Sis. Pat, Congerville,
IL), and Bro. Earl Beery (Sis. Susie,
Rittman, OH). We thank these
brothers for their willingness to
serve us.
We are thankful to report that our
convert, Beth Klopfenstein (Bro.
Lee and Sis. Desma), has professed
peace with God and man. May
God continue to bless her as she
prepares to give her testimony and
be baptized.
OHIO, MANSFIELD
Tami Griffey
The annual business meeting was
held December 2. Those holding
positions starting 2013 include:
Bro. Chuck Beer, Trustee; Sis.
Robin Beer, World Relief; Sis. Tami
Beer, Kitchen Committee; Bro.
Dan Sauder, head song leader; Bro.
Anthony Baumann, usher. May
God bless and direct each one in
their labors of love. We sincerely
appreciate all those who shared of
33
their time and talents during this
past year.
We thank Bro. Sam Schlatter (Sis.
Linda, Junction, OH) for sharing
God’s Word with us recently.
The Sunday School Christmas
program was December 14. The
students joyfully proclaimed in song
and verse the Christmas message of
Jesus’ birth.
Bro. Dave Eyerly and his family
continue to have our prayers as he
was hospitalized recently.
May God bless each one in the
New Year 2013!
OHIO, RITTMAN
Jenny Pertee
Anna Bauman
Many thanks go to ministering
Bro. Todd Stoller (Latty, OH) for
his willingness to stand at the
pulpit and share God’s Word. We
appreciate the efforts of all ministers
who help us in our reach for
spiritual meat and drink.
Many of us were given a reason
to rejoice each time we heard of
another new convert. These include:
Roy Zollinger (Bro. Arlyn and Sis.
Barb), Elizabeth Coblentz, Noah
Lanz (Bro. Jeff and Sis. Darlene),
Mike (Sis. Myra) Pierce, Bailee
Indermuhle (Bro. Brian and Sis.
Bev), and Jacob Steiner (Bro. Brent
and Sis. Andrea). We pray that each
will feel God’s grace and nearness in
their new spiritual walk.
We wish peace and comfort to
those who have recently spent time
in the hospital, including Sis. Velma
(Bro. Elton) Rufener, Bro. Vernon
(Sis. Lib) Landis, Bro. Dale (Sis.
Carolyn) Hartzler, Sis. Marilyn
(Bro. Ed) Trent, Sis. Vi (Bro. Mitch)
Baltic, Sis. Betty (Bro. Reinhart)
Keiper, Bro. Dave (Sis. Eileen)
Emch, Joe (Sis. Karen) Riggenbach,
and Malaki Steiner (Bro. Rick and
Sis. Dawn).
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Ohio, Sardis
Faith Beard
Our church family rejoiced upon
hearing the wedding announcement
of our Bro. Josh Ramsier, son of Bro.
Mark and Sis. Alice Ramsier, to Sis.
Kaitlyn Isaia (Leo, IN), daughter of
Bro. Richard Isaia (Roanoke, IL) and
Deanna Harrell. We pray for them
as they prepare for their March
wedding and, most importantly,
their lifelong marriage.
We thank Elder Bro. Jim Plattner
(Sis. Marlene, Princeville, IL) for
helping our Elder Bro. Ken read us
the Memorandum and also sharing
the pulpit for the Sunday services.
We continue to pray for the elders as
they continue to do the work asked
of them by our Heavenly Father.
May we also do our work as is asked
of us.
We all joined together the first
weekend of December to witness
the testimony and baptism of
Sis. Mariah Indermuhle. She is
the daughter of Eric and Sis. Lisa
Indermuhle and the granddaughter
of Bro. Bob and Sis. Karen
Indermuhle and Bro. Bill and Sis.
Miriam Brake. How it fills our
hearts to see a young lamb of God
simply put their trust in Jesus Christ
in spite of all the turmoil with
which Satan always trys to drag us
away. We gratefully thank Bro. Rick
Plattner (Sis. Mary Ann, Fairbury,
IL) for helping with this weekend.
We gathered again two weekends
later to support the Brake family
as they laid to rest their husband,
father, grandfather, greatgrandfather and brother, John
Brake. Mourning his departure from
this earth are his wife, Sis. Almeda
Brake, his son and daughter-inlaw, Bro. Bill and Sis. Miriam
Brake, nine grandchildren, 27
great-grandchildren and a sister,
Catherine Zimmerman, of Martins
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Ferry, OH. Our prayers continue
for God’s comfort upon this family
as they are now without a loved one
who was so large in their lives.
Ohio, Smithville
Sarah Crist
Kara Stoller
Congratulations to my co-writer,
Sis. Sarah, and Bro. Mike Crist as
they became first-time parents
through adoption to Silas Michael,
born November 15 in Ohio. They
are “in awe that God would choose
(their) family to raise this precious
child.” Grandparents are Jim and
Francine Crist, and Bro. Larry and
Sis. Susan Rufener.
We also rejoice with Bro. Steve
and Sis. Jollene Hofacre on the birth
of their grandson, Sheridan Deacon.
He was born in November to Shawn
and Jen Frazier and welcomed home
by siblings Bethany, Collin and
Aylin.
Congratulations to Bro. Adam
and Sis. Ann Uhler who added a
daughter, Brielle Grace, to their
family on November 30. She joins
three siblings: Lane, Elise and
Mathias. Grandparents are Dale and
Sis. Marilyn Uhler, and Bro. Bruce
and Sis. Lois Maibach.
November 25 was the baptism of
Sis. Bethany Gasser (late Bro. Greg
Gasser; Bro. Ken and Sis. Sue Ellen
Maibach). We as a church were
thankful to take part in a weekend
that signified what the Lord has
been working in Bethany’s heart. We
know and are thankful that the Lord
wants to continue changing and
growing her toward Christlikeness.
We are thankful for two more
loved ones that understand the
sinfulness of all mankind, and
how we will be personally held
accountable for our own sin unless
we repent and turn to Jesus for
salvation. We rejoice with Bailee
January 2013
Indermuhle (Bro. Brian and Sis.
Bev) and Daniel Aller, who we also
welcome to our congregation.
Hospitalized this month were Sis.
Carol Schuster (Bro. George) and
Bro. Art Riggenbach (Lynn). No
doubt prayers have been offered for
comfort and recovery where the
Lord wills.
Thank you Bro. Mike Ursu (Sis.
Barb, Kitchener, Ontario) and
Bro. Todd Graf (Sis. Lydia, Akron,
OH) for visiting us recently. We
appreciate your service in the
ministry and your willingness to
share God’s Word.
We also appreciate the sacrifices of
our home ministers. On November
18, Bro. Gary Maibach meditated on
Esther 5. Verse 3 says, “Then said the
king unto her, What wilt thou, queen
Esther? And what is thy request? It
shall be even given thee to the half
of the kingdom.” Bro. Gary added,
“Half of my kingdom! It’s almost
beyond comprehension. And when
we come into the precincts of God
in prayer, think what He offers us,
beloved ones. The riches of his grace
and mercy. And it is His desire to
have fellowship with us now and
throughout the endless ages of
eternity.” Unlike Esther’s situation,
“there is no penalty to coming into
the precincts of the King of kings.
There is no penalty in coming
before God Almighty. …Think of
that!” We certainly are privileged,
aren’t we?
OHIO, TOLEDO
Jenny Manz
Deanna Manz
We wish to thank Elder Bro. Bill
Schlatter (Sis. Emily, Junction, OH)
and Bro. Mark Ramsier (Sis. Alice,
Sardis, OH) for visiting us this past
month, and lending themselves in
the ministry of God’s Word. May the
Lord be their rich rewarder.
January 2013
How thankful we are for the
safe and healthy arrival of another
precious baby. Bro. Ben, Sis. Sarah
and Elijah Harmon (Detroit, MI)
welcomed Jonah Glen on November
27. May God bless their family as
they strive to raise their children
in the ways of truth. Excited
grandparents are Bro. Doug and Sis.
Lanna Harmon, and Abraham and
Sarah Nolan (Detroit, MI).
There are many traditions we
look forward to each year during
the holiday season. Many from
our congregation spent a Sunday
afternoon caroling together. Despite
the rainy weather, we enjoyed the
time together and pray those we
sang to could feel the joy of the
season.
Oregon, PORTLAND
Liz Jones
We enjoyed our Christmas
Program following the afternoon
service on December 9. We
appreciate the effort put forth by the
students and the teachers and we
KNOW it pleases the Father heart to
have us in remembrance of His Son’s
humble birth.
Note of Thanks:
Thanks and blessings to the
dear ones, Portland and Silverton,
who supplied meals for us while I
was convalescing. It was so much
appreciated.
Humbly, Sis. Pearl Miller
OREGON, SILVERTON
Kelsey Walder
Ann Kuenzi
We have had a couple of enjoyable
functions this month. December
2 we had an all-church caroling
evening. We sang at a number of
care facilities and for individuals in
their homes. December 9 was our
Christmas program put on by the
Sunday school children. It is always
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a joy to watch the children recite
their verses and sing the beautiful
carols about our Lord’s birth.
Our church has had a number
of people with health issues this
month. Bro. Jim Kuenzi (Sis. Barb)
had part of a finger removed in an
accident, which resulted in surgery.
Sis. Becky (Bro. Dan) spent a good
portion of the month at Benedictine
Care Center, continuing to recover
from her broken hip. Thankfully
she is home with her family now.
Mary Dietrich (Bro. Rick and Sis.
Laura) broke her arm and is in a
cast. Jacob Kuenzi (Bro. Adam
and Sis. Lori) is still in a cast for
his broken arm. We are thankful
to have Bro. Greg and Sis. Carol
Wackerle back home from their trip.
As part of that trip, Sis. Carol spent
time in the hospital being very ill.
Little Hannah Zollinger (Bro. Scott
and Sis. Bethany) is recovering from
bladder surgery. Sis. Verla Hari had
cataract surgery and is doing well,
but continues to struggle with her
Alzheimer’s disease. We pray for a
speedy recovery for all of them.
We rejoice with Greg and Susan
Stadeli (Ron and Arlene Stadeli,
Herman and Joan Glueck), Teresa
Tribbett (Bro. Mark and Sis. AnneMarie) and Evelyn Hari. They
have found the grace to repent and
have found their precious pearl of
Peace. We look forward to their
testimonies and baptisms in the
near future.
Michael Kuenzi (Bro. Jason and
Sis. Jo) and Mackenna Kackley
(Mark and Lorna) have announced
their engagement to be married.
They are looking forward to being
married next August.
We were thankful for our visiting
ministers this month: Elder Bro.
Peter Petrovich (Sis. Marian, San
Diego, CA) and Bro. Mike Leman
(Sis. Lisa, Portland, OR).
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PENNSYLVANIA,
PHILADELPHIA
Christmas is always a wonderful
time for good fellowship and to
draw closer together as a church.
We enjoyed Christmas caroling
this month. The Sunday School
Christmas Program was another
opportunity to be together and
focus on Christ’s coming to earth.
We really appreciate all the Sunday
School’s efforts and enjoyed their
wonderful program.
Our church experiences
mixed emotions as some in our
congregation will be leaving us for
a time. We will definitely miss Bro.
Daryl and Sis. Norma Luginbuhl
as they are moving to Haiti in
January. Bro. Daryl will be serving
as Facility Director at Hospital
Lumiere. We are thankful that God
is directing their lives and that
Daryl and Norma are willing to be
used by Him. We appreciate their
willingness to be sent to Haiti, and
we look forward to utilizing emails,
phone calls and in-person visits to
keep connected with them during
this chapter in their lives. I’m sure
they will appreciate all prayers and
encouragements as they go through
this transition.
May God bless each one this
Christmas season!
TENNESSEE, NASHVILLE
Mike and Monica Fritz
Before Christmas, we were blessed
as a congregation to sing Christmas
carols at a local nursing home, and
to be encouraged by the Sunday
School Christmas program.
We have also been blessed from
God’s Living Word, brought to us
by our recent visiting ministers:
Bro. Gary Sinn (Sis. Paulette; Latty,
OH), Elder Bro. Lynn Fiechter (Sis.
Ronda; Bluffton, IN), and retired
Elder Bro. Ron Schambach (Sis.
36
Nancy; Elgin, IL). We have also
been strengthened by the fellowship
of visitors from Congerville and
Elgin, IL; Bluffton, IN; West Bend,
IA; and Junction and Latty, OH.
If you are traveling to or through
the Nashville area, please plan to
worship with us. The following
churches are scheduled for services
in the near future: Junction, OH
(1/27); Washington, IL (2/3); Latty,
OH (2/10); Bluffton, North, IN
(2/17); and Roanoke, IL (3/3).
If you plan to worship with us,
please call ahead to confirm our
schedule. Often we gather on
Saturday evenings for fellowship,
and all are heartily welcome. Also,
we typically meet on Wednesday
evenings at 7:15 p.m. for call-in
services and would welcome any
midweek visitors. Contact Bro. Mike
and Sis. Monica Fritz, (615) 8665543, fritzmb.family@gmail.com.
TEXAS, AUSTIN
Serenity and Jasmine Ringger
Thanks to our Sunday School
students who brought the Christmas
story to us in their Christmas
program. How thankful we are that
Jesus did not remain as a babe, but
grew to be Christ the man, and the
Saviour of the world.
We appreciate the willingness
of ministers to bring the Word to
us. This month we hosted Elder
Bro. Marvin Dotterer (Sis. Nancy,
Forrest, IL), Bros. Scott Wegman
(Sis. Dawn, Taylor, MO), and Jim
Meiss, (Sis. Candy, Phoenix, AZ).
Visitors also came from West
Bend, IA; Valparaiso, IN; Peoria, IL;
Rittman, OH.
The following is the minister
schedule for February: (10) Alto,
(17) Fairbury, (24) Rockville.
Please refer to the minister’s
directory for directions and
contacts.
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Texas, Dallas-Fort Worth
January 2013
February 3, Bradford, IL; Feb. 10,
Silverton, OR; Feb. 24, Winthrop,
“And God shall wipe away all tears
MN; Mar.10, LaCrosse, IN; Mar.
from their eyes; and there shall be
17, Taylor, MO; and Mar. 24, Latty,
no more death, neither sorrow, nor
OH. We also meet on Wednesday
crying, neither shall there be any
evenings at the home of Bro. Lloyd
more pain: for the former things are
and Sis. Joyce Nohl. Please call them
passed away” (Rev. 21:4)
if you can join us.
We express our sympathy to Sandy
Andy and Kristi Plattner have
Chang of Fort Worth on the passing a 2-bedroom apartment available
of her mother, Sis. Marion Miller of one block from the Gulf at South
Congerville, Nov. 29, 2012. May she Padre Island for visitors who wish
find comfort at this time.
to spend time there. You may call
Services are being held generally
them at (956) 433-9844 for more
the 2nd Sunday of each month at
information.
the Holiday Inn Express, 4450 W.
Sunday services are held at
John Carpenter Freeway, Irving TX. 10:30 and 12:30 at the Holiday Inn
Please call ahead to verify.
Express, 1921 South 10th St. Take
Leland & Mary Plattner (956) 265- the 10th Street exit off Expressway
0351 or Dennis & Diane Rassi (512) 83 and go 1½ blocks south. Please
321-2345
see the ministers’ directory for local
contact information.
Texas, McAllen
Gloria Walder
Texas, Zapata
Mary Plattner
“God is ever present! Let us now
adore Him, And in rev’rence come
Vermont, NORTH
before Him!” (Zion’s Harp #68)
CLARENDON
Nathan
and Miriam Reutter
We’re so thankful for the
Our visiting ministers and their
ministers who willingly lend
wives the past two months have
themselves in God’s service. May
been: Bro. Tom and Sis. Jane
He bless Bro. Ben Walder (Sis.
Bolliger (Tremont, IL), Bro. Duane
Juanita, Congerville, IL), Bro. Jaye
and Sis. Kay Reutter (Rockville, CT),
Rinkenberger (Sis. Peg, Goodfield,
Bro. Tom and Sis. LaNae Bahler
IL), Elder Bro. Marvin Dotterer
(Sis. Nancy, Forrest, IL), Bro. Leland (Rockville, CT), Elder Bro. Kevin
and Sis. Cheryl Ryan (Rockville,
Plattner (Sis. Mary, Zapata, TX)
CT), Ordained Deacon Bro. Warren
and Bro.Art Ingold (Sis. Bonnie,
and Sis. Bonnie Zahner (Rockville,
Rittman, OH).
CT), and Bro. Dan and Sis. Mary
We also enjoyed other visitors
Lou Goric (Rockville, CT). Since
from Rockville, CT; Rittman, OH;
this list brings us to the close of
Goodfield, IL; Fairbury, IL; Forrest,
the year, we wish, again, to thank
IL; and McAllen, TX. Being so few
those who have spent their time
in number, we find every extra
throughout the year to be with us
visitor makes such a difference. We
and to minister to us. God loveth a
encourage our ministers to feel free
to bring others along and contact us cheerful giver. We are thankful they
carried out 1 Peter 4:11.
as soon as possible to help us plan
Elder Bro. Kevin Ryan and
for meals and fellowship.
Ordained
Deacon Bro. Warren
Services are scheduled for
January 2013
Zahner spent time with us during
the weekend of November 17-18
to elucidate the Memorandum.
We appreciate their insights and
encouragements. One thought that
sticks out is that we sometimes just
have to be willing to be willing. Bro.
Kevin and Bro. Warren once again
realized Acts 15. God bless you
brothers.
Bro. Duane and Sis. Kay Reutter
were here to see their grandchildren
in our Christmas program. The
children sang well and recited their
verses beautifully. At the end of the
program Bro. Duane encouraged the
children to “hear the angels sing”.
Matthew 21:15-16 encapsulates the
event.
If you are interested in
fellowshipping with us here
in Vermont, and would like
information about dates of services,
please contact Bro. Nathan and Sis.
Miriam Reutter at (802) 447-2426.
We love to fellowship with believers,
whether it is during the week or on
the weekend. Please let us know if
you are planning to be in our area so
we can accommodate you.
Service times are as follows:
Mid-week services (Contact local
brethren)
Sunday Morning Service: 10:10
AM
Sunday Afternoon Service: 12:15
PM
Sunday school held during the
morning service.
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37
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).
Interested in receiving a printed sermon?
To order, contact:
Printed Sermons
102 Lake View Drive
Fairbury, IL 61739
(815) 692-3616
printedsermons@gmail.com
Bible Distribution
Sharing the Word in Love
Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law,
happy is he. Prov 29:18
Bibles in English and other languages, plus Bible Story Books
approved by the Apostolic Christian Mission Committee, are available
for those who wish to distribute them in the name of Jesus Christ. The
inventory is computerized. These materials can be drop-shipped do
nearly any address.
To order, contact:
Apostolic Christian Church
Bible Distribution
P.O. Box 30
Bluffton, IN 46714
Ph/Fax: (260) 824-5587
bibledist@adamswells.co
January 2013
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38
Winter Work Project 2013
An Opportunity to Serve
Register Online
All volunteers must register online
at www.acworldrelief.org.
In Cullman, Alabama
Beginning January 7, 2013 and
continuing through March 2013,
there are opportunities to serve in
Cullman, Alabama. The project
involves building new homes and
repairing damaged homes for
victims of the April 2011 tornadoes.
Displaced families need help
rebuilding their shattered dreams.
A job for everyone
50 volunteers are needed each week.
All skill levels are needed; even the
unskilled. There will be a job for
every willing heart. Participants
must be at least 14 years old to serve
on a work team.
More information
Volunteers will be housed at Stoney
Creek Camp near the town of
Cullman. Meals will be provided
Sunday evening through Friday
evening at the camp. Mid-week
services will be held at the camp.
Skills needed
Carpenters, electricians, plumbers,
drywall hangers and finishers,
painters, housecleaners and kitchen
helpers.
More project information is
available on the website. Before
registering, check the work team
schedule to be sure the dates you
have chosen are available.
Volunteers are encouraged
to worship at Athens, Alabama
Church at the beginning of their
work week. Stoney Creek Camp is
approximately one hour south of
the church.
www.acworldrelief.org
Give a Child Hope
Child Sponsorships
T
To sponsor a child
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: $25.00/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
January 2013
SILVER LINING
Top Quality Coordinator Needed
Gateway Woods is in need of a Top Quality Coordinator for the summer. The Top Quality Coordinator position offers the opportunity to grow deep relationships with Gateway Woods Staff and summer volunteers,
as well as the chance to spend a significant amount of one-on-one time with residents. If you feel the call to
explore the possibilities and to have play a role in a group of residents lives this summer, please call one of the
brothers listed below:
Ryan Donaghy
Lynn Stieglitz
Assistant School Administrator
Counseling Elder
PO Box 125
15417 Doty Rd.
Leo, IN 46765
New Haven, IN 46774
1-888-443-4283
260-657-1033
ryan.donaghy@gatewaywoods.org
Education Intern Needed
Gateway Woods is in need of a Education Intern for the summer of 2012. The Education Intern position offers the opportunity to grow deep relationships with Gateway Woods Staff, as well as the chance to grow as a
teacher and spend a significant amount of one-on-one time with residents. If you feel the call to explore the
possibilities and to have a positive impact in the lives of residents this summer, please call one of the brothers
listed below:
Adam McAfee
School Administrator
PO Box 125
Leo, IN 46765
1-888-443-4283
adam.mcafee@gatewaywoods.org
Lynn Stieglitz
Counseling Elder
15417 Doty Rd.
New Haven, IN 46774
260-657-1033
Foster Care Program Manager Needed
Gateway Woods has an opening for a brother or sister to manage our Foster Care Program. We are seeking
someone who desires to serve in a ministry that serves troubled and broken children and families. The Foster
Care Program Manager is a key full-time position that offers responsibility, management and creativity. If you
have a dedicated interest, love and sensitivity for youth and families, at least a bachelor’s degree in social work,
counseling or a related field, and possess good motivational, organizational, teaching and communications
skills, please contact one of the brothers listed below for more information and a job description.
Jeff Schumacher
P.O. Box 125
Leo, IN 46765
(888) 443-4283
jeff.schumacher@gatewaywoods.org
Lynn Stieglitz
Counseling Elder
15417 Doty Rd.
New Haven, IN 46774
(260) 657-1033
39
January 2013
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40
USA World Relief Committee
Brother
Tom Klotzle
Chuck Kellenberger
Bill Leman
Les Schambach
Ray Slagel
Paul Kaeb
Stan Schambach
Doug Fiechter
Keith Kloter
Contacts for area work or disaster projects
Position
Home Church
Counseling Elder
Altadena, CA
Chairman
Elgin, IL
Treasurer
Roanoke, IL
Administrator/Secretary Elgin, IL
Consultant
Fairbury, IL
Consultant
Bern, KS
Consultant
Prescott, AZ
Consultant
Bluffton, IN
Consultant
Rockville,
UpdatedCT
6.1.09
Cell Phone
(818) 522-3307
(224) 629-6531
(309) 241-0257
(630) 247-5271
(815) 848-3714
(785) 547-5269
(224) 698-0899
(260) 307-6595
(860) 836-7935
Mexico Work Teams
Location
Year 2013
Coordinator
Magdalena
Construction
Jan 12-19
Steve Kaeb
217-781-4709
kaebsb@frontier.com
Magdalena
Construction
Feb 16-23
Jon Baner
309-747-4085
baner@gridcom.net
Magdalena
Construction
Mar 9-16
Drew Martin
Illinois State University
309-635-0878
isuyounggroup@gmail.com
Magdalena
Construction
Mar 23-30
Chuck Koch
Tremont Bible Class
309-925-3905
cckoch1988@gmail.com
Reynosa
Medical
May 14-21
Todd Drayer
260-273-3112
todd.drayer@gmail.com
Magdalena
Construction
May 25 - Jun 1
Mark Steffen
Phoenix Bible Class
602-980-2451
marksteffen@coreccg.com
Magdalena
Construction
Jun 8-15
Benj Knapp
Washington Bible Class
309-208-7450
benjknapp@homewayhomes.com
Mexico
Medical
Sep 18-25
Cheryl Herrmann
cherrmann@frontier.com
Contact: Mike Fiechter
mfiechter@onlyinternet.net
(260) 597-7330
January 2013
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41
Jamaica Work Teams
Project
Year 2013
Coordinator
Capacity
Kingston School
CCCD
Jan 26-2
Roger Stoller
309-747-3228
rstoller@gridcom.net
Gridley
Kingston School
CCCD
Mar 23-30
Ryan Steidinger
815-848-2500
fehrrealestate@frontier.com
Gridley
SS
Knockpatrick School
CCCD
Jun 15-22
Luke Rocke
309-448-2421
jarock71@gmail.com
Goodfield
SS
Knockpatrick School
CCCD
Jun 22-29
Trent Johnson
608-882-1259
jenn.j@charter.net
Belvidere
SS
JDV
CCCD
Jun 29-6
Harvey Landis
330-466-8274
landziv@aol.com
If you are interested in sponsoring a work team to Jamaica
contact Loren Dettwyler at lmdettwyler@gmail.com
Akron SS
Rittman SS
Smithville SS
Haiti Construction Work Teams
Project
Year 2013
Coordinator
Capacity
Les Cayes
MEBSH
Construction
Jan 4-11
Ron Palitto
330-336-5373
Ronp@palittoconsulting.com
12
Les Cayes
AWA
Water Aid
Jan 11-18
Maurice Schaefer
309-253-9003
schaefs2@gmail.com
4
Hospital Lumiere
MEBSH
Construction
Jan 12-19
Daryl Luginbuhl
484-433-1205
darylluginbuhl@gmail.com
12
Dumay
Lifeline
Construction
Jan 21-28
Ted Steidinger
1-815-848-5495
tsteid@frontier.com
Full
SEED Ag School
Haiti Agriculture
Jan 25-Feb 1
Dale Frank
dtfrank@louisacomm.net
319-766-3661
12
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42
January 2013
Dumay
Lifeline
Construction
Jan 28-Feb 4
Alan Gerber
1-815-657-8629
alan_gerber@sbcglobal.net
12
Les Cayes
MEBSH
Construction
Feb 1-8
Rod Wieland
989-671-0404
rhwieland@speednetllc.com
12
Hospital Lumiere
MEBSH
Construction
Feb 2-9
Daryl Luginbuhl
484-433-1205
darylluginbuhl@gmail.com
12
Dumay
Lifeline
Construction/Medical
Feb 18-25
Paul Zimmerman
1-815-848-2173
pallan2@frontier.com
12
Dumay
Lifeline
Construction
Feb 25-Mar 4
Neil Bahler
1-815-848-3861
nbahler@gmail.com
12
Les Cayes
MEBSH
Construction
Mar 1-8
Steve Leuthold
309-645-2208
sleuth@speerbank.com
12
Hospital Lumiere
MEBSH
Construction
Mar 2-Apr 9
Daryl Luginbuhl
484-433-1205
darylluginbuhl@gmail.com
12
Les Cayes
AWA
Water Aid
Mar 8-15
Maurice Schaefer
309-253-9003
schaefs2@gmail.com
4
Les Cayes
FRW
Vocational School
Mar 8-15
Rick Wuethrich
219-863-4163
rick@wuethrichfarms.com
4
SEED Ag School
Haiti Agriculture
Mar 8-15
Larry Kaufmann
815-457-2924
ljkaufmann@juno.com
12
Les Cayes
MEBSH
Construction
Mar 15-22
Rich Bertschi
309-467-2351
lemangm@mtco.com
12
Hospital Lumiere
MEBSH
Construction
Apr 6-13
Daryl Luginbuhl
484-433-1205
darylluginbuhl@gmail.com
12
Les Cayes
Apr 16-23
Jon Zeller
10
January 2013
SILVER LINING
43
Les Cayes
MEBSH
Maintenance
Apr 16-23
Jon Zeller
309-266-9009
jczeller1972@gmail.com
10
Les Cayes
MEBSH
Haiti Support
Apr 25-29
Jon Zeller
309-266-9009
jczeller1972@gmail.com
ACWR-CC
Hospital Lumiere
MEBSH
Construction
May 4-11
Daryl Luginbuhl
484-433-1205
darylluginbuhl@gmail.com
12
Les Cayes
FRW
Vocational School
Jun 7-14
Rick Wuethrich
219-863-4163
rick@wuethrichfarms.com
4
Haiti Medical Work Teams
Project
Year 2013
Coordinator
Capacity
Bonne Fin, Haiti
Hospital Lumiere
Medical Teams
Jan 18-26
Alice Widmer
alice.widmer@jmsmucker.com
330-939-0083
full
Bonne Fin, Haiti
Hospital Lumiere
Medical Teams
Feb 15-23
Alice Widmer
alice.widmer@jmsmucker.com
330-939-0083
full
Bonne Fin, Haiti
Hospital Lumiere
Medical Teams
Mar 15-23
Alice Widmer
alice.widmer@jmsmucker.com
330-939-0083
8
Bonne Fin, Haiti
Hospital Lumiere
Medical Teams
Apr 19-27
Alice Widmer
alice.widmer@jmsmucker.com
330-939-0083
8
Bonne Fin, Haiti
Hospital Lumiere
Medical Teams
May 17-25
Alice Widmer
alice.widmer@jmsmucker.com
330-939-0083
8
Trip includes travel dates of Friday thru the following Saturday.
There is a need for ministers to travel with the ACC medical teams not only for
Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it
unto one of the least of these
my brethren, ye have done it
unto me. (Matt 25:40)
January 2013
SILVER LINING
44
Apostolic Christian
Counseling and Family Services
515 E. Highland Street, Morton, IL 61550 • Tel: (309) 263-5536 Fax: (309) 263-6841 • www.accounseling.org
God’s Promises to the Believer
Second in a Series of Five Articles
2 Peter 1:3-4, “According as his divine
power hath given unto us all things
that pertain unto life and godliness,
through the knowledge of him that
hath called us to glory and virtue:
Whereby are given unto us exceeding
great and precious promises: that
by these ye might be partakers of
the divine nature, having escaped
the corruption that is in the world
through lust.”
God’s Word is full of promises for
the believer. However, in times of
struggle or difficulty, it may be hard
to grasp these promises and believe
them. Many people know the words
of the verses but do not internalize
them and experience the power of
their Truth. It is important for the
believer to personalize the promises
and choose to believe they are true for
him or her! Below are some steps for
internalizing these promises:
• Identify the promise from the
Scripture as the truth.
• Make the choice to affirm it as
truth in your life. That is, believe
that the promise is true for you.
• Ask yourself, “If I lived like this
promise was 100% true, how
would I live? What type of difference would it make in my
life?”
• Make the choice to live like the
truth is truly true even if your
feelings don’t match. Remember,
when your feelings and the truth
are in conflict, always follow the
truth of the Word.
Believers can claim the promises
below because of God’s grace and
goodness toward them. We cannot claim any right to these promises based on our own worthiness.
Therefore, in order to keep these
promises in perspective, it is helpful
to use the following sentence stems:
• Because of salvation through
Christ…
• Because of the Holy Spirit’s work
in me…
• Because of God’s love, power,
and plan…
In this series of articles, we are
examining some sets of promises
in God’s Word and discussing how
these promises could have application in our lives of faith.
Set 3: I have been adopted into
God’s family and can call God my
Father.
Romans 8:15, “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to
fear; but ye have received the Spirit
of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba,
Father.”
The idea of being adopted carries
with it the connotation of being
sought out and selected. Parents
who have their own birth children
did not seek them out directly, but
parents who adopt children must
go through a process different than
natural birth. In this case, there is a
longing and seeking for a child that
hasn’t been satisfied through birth.
Likewise, God has sought us out,
called us to Him, and has adopted
us into His family that He might call
us His children.
Some orphaned children or those
up for adoption may have lived in a
state of fear that is perhaps similar
to the fearful state of the unconverted. However, God has adopted us
out of bondage and fear to become
a child of the King, and we can then
call Him “Abba” which is a term of
endearment very similar to the word
we hear so often today: “Daddy.” His
unconditional love for us has been
demonstrated in His sacrifice on the
cross. God wants us to love Him like
an earthly father desires the love of
his children.
Set 4: I am loved by God.
1 John 3:1, “Behold, what manner of
love the Father hath bestowed upon
us, that we should be called the sons
of God: therefore the world knoweth
us not, because it knew him not.”
Ephesians 2:4-5, “But God, who
is rich in mercy, for his great love
wherewith he loved us, Even when we
were dead in sins, hath quickened us
together with Christ, (by grace ye are
saved;)”
John 15:9-10, “As the Father hath
loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my
commandments, ye shall abide in my
love; even as I have kept my Father’s
commandments, and abide in his
love.”
Romans 5:8, “But God commendeth
his love toward us, in that, while we
were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
Ephesians 3:17-19, “That Christ may
dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye,
being rooted and grounded in love,
May be able to comprehend with
all saints what is the breadth, and
January 2013
SILVER LINING
length, and depth, and height; And to
know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled
with all the fulness of God.”
1 John 4:19, “We love him, because
he first loved us.”
Revelation 1:5, “And from Jesus
Christ, who is the faithful witness,
and the first begotten of the dead,
and the prince of the kings of the
earth. Unto him that loved us, and
washed us from our sins in his own
blood,”
It can be very difficult, at times,
to understand how God loves us
especially when we may feel unlovable. Nevertheless, He continually
reminds us that He loved us first,
that His love is great, and that His
love extends unconditionally to each
of us.
Set 5: I have been chosen by God.
1 Peter 2:9-10, “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood,
an holy nation, a peculiar people
[a precious possession belonging to
God]; that ye should shew forth the
praises of him who hath called you
out of darkness into his marvellous
light: Which in time past were not
a people, but are now the people of
God: which had not obtained mercy,
but now have obtained mercy.”
John 15:16, “Ye have not chosen me,
but I have chosen you, and ordained
you, that ye should go and bring
45
forth fruit, and that your fruit should
remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask
of the Father in my name, he may
give it you.”
Ephesians 1:4, “According as he hath
chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be
holy and without blame before him in
love:”
Being chosen by God goes along
with God’s love for us in that He
chose us and loved us before we
came to Him. We have a choice
whether or not to follow Him, but
He has chosen us even before the
world began. This is a precious
promise that can give us great
comfort in recognizing that it is His
desire to give us the kingdom.
World Relief Informational Meetings
Opportunities to
Serve One Another
presentations scheduled by the
church holding the conference.
For more information, go to
the World Relief web site (www.
acworldrelief.org) and check under
Informational Meetings.
T
he mission of World Relief is to
provide humanitarian aid and
volunteer labor to alleviate human
misery and suffering throughout the
world, first to the household of faith,
and then to others as much as we
are able, in a way that is a Christian
witness and brings glory to God.
We thank God for the various
opportunities to help the needy
of the world made available to
our congregations through World
Relief, not only with funds, but with
volunteer labor by our brethren.
One way to hear about these
opportunities is to attend one of
three presentations held throughout the year.
Next meetings
Schedule
The Western Meeting is held the
second Saturday of March and
is rotated between the Apostolic
Christian Churches west of the line
between Indiana and Illinois.
The Eastern Meeting is held on the
second Saturday of November and
is rotated between the churches in
Indiana and all churches eastward.
Also, Thursday before the
conference in August, there are
Western:
Goodfield, IL
March 9, 2013
8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Before Conference:
Fairbury, IL Fellowship Hall
August 8, 2013
1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
www.acworldrelief.org
46
Sermon continued from Page 2
builds on those topics. I want us to
focus on the connection between
Ezekiel 28 and the first section of I
Corinthians 8.
Paul says in verse 6 “…there is but
one God, the Father, of whom are all
things, and we in him; and one Lord
Jesus Christ, by whom are all things,
and we by him.” Now for some of
us, there is a tendency to shrug our
shoulders at that statement and say “I
know that. That’s kind of old news.”
But if you go back to Ezekiel 28 and
to the Old Testament, it was established without a question - some
times with thunder and lightning
and mountains, some times with a
cloud by night and lightning by day,
all kinds of different ways in the Old
Testament for the Children of Israel
- that God was God and there’s only
one God. But, how did they do? Did
they ever fall into idolatry? A whole
bunch of times!
So it’s easy for us to get lax on topics like there’s one God. That’s not
the end of it. I don’t think the Jews
ever lost sight of that intellectually. I
don’t think if you’d have gone up and
down the rows of the Jewish tribes
and asked them that they would have
ever lost sight of that, even when
they were deep in idolatry. It’s not
head knowledge - I think most of us
here have that today. It’s heart knowledge.
Remember he said over and over
that they will know. I don’t have that
Hebrew word in front of me, but
often in the Hebrew and the Greek
when they talk about the word to
‘know’ God, they are using the same
‘know’ as in the intimacy of husband
and wife - to know at a very intimate
relationship level. To really know
who God is and that He really is God
in my life. Of course the demonstration of that is by the way I live,
the way I spend my time, the way I
spend my money, the way I treat the
people around me, my husband, my
wife, my children, the way I treat the
people in the church, my neighbor
across the street.
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That’s what God wants us to get
here in the beginning of I Corinthians 8 and Ezekiel 28 is that we
establish foundationally that we are
surrendered to God and that we
know that He is God over all. It will
affect the way we eat or not eat meat
- the way we interact with our brothers and sisters in Christ and others.
He says there is but one God in
whom are all things. What’s the helpfulness of that? Then it says by whom
are all things, and we by Him. What’s
the helpfulness of that? Again, what’s
really useful is to take this from
today and project it into Monday and
Tuesday. It’s to say: so if my neighbor
is by Him, then how should I treat
him? That is the practical application. When I’m in the business deal
tomorrow and it’s tempting to shave
off or be aggressive interacting with
the other person, we take the knowledge of ‘God is sovereign’, and we
stop and think before we make the
deal that he or she has been created
in the image of God. By Him are all
things - that means the person I’m
sitting across the table from in this
business deal, the neighbor whose
child I’m going to help watch, or
whatever the context as we’re all in
different contexts in our lives, I’m
now going to treat differently. Or
brothers and sisters in the church oftentimes when we get in a spat or
we are struggling in relationships
it’s because we’ve lost sight of Who’s
over us.
We do that to our children when
they disobey. We say, “Mom and
Dad didn’t see you, but God sees
everything you do.” How much more
important it is that we as adults grab
hold of the concept that by Him are
all things. Jesus Christ is the creator
of all people - no matter what people
believe. Wars have happened; there
have been spats between Christian
and Muslims. It doesn’t matter what
somebody says they are or what their
religious back ground says. That’s
irrelevant. God is God over all - the
deceived, those who are following in
truth, wherever you are. We should
January 2013
be treating people with love and
respect no matter what their belief
system is.
That’s what he says here right at
the beginning - “…Knowledge puffeth
up…” v.1. Even in the church that can
happen to us, can’t it? We study, we
understand the Word, we know the
Word, and we start to become arrogant or judgmental of our brother
and sister instead of as he says here,
knowledge puffs up, but charity edifies it.
Jesus Christ, Lord of all, had a
perfect and complete knowledge of
everything. He knew everything? He
was God with us. He interacted with
people with power, right? No, He
interacted with people with gentleness and kindness. Even some times
very foolish and ignorant people who
were coming to Him - and eventually
crucified Him, spit on Him and all
kinds of things - He never engaged
with knowledge. He could have
looked at them and ran through a
whole bunch of things, but He didn’t.
He engaged.
Remember His disciples? They
started getting caught up in this
knowledge thing. The children
wanted to come to Him, and they
said no, Jesus does not have time
for children. He is much smarter
than that. He’s got more important
things… Jesus said, “…Suffer the little
children to come unto me…” and sat
them on His lap. (St. Mark 10:13-16)
Do you remember that? He sat them
on His lap - the God of the universe
who wanted to save all souls and had
a huge ministry to do! Knowledge
puffs up! Charity - Jesus loved those
little children.
Jesus loved His disciples. Remember how many times they did things
that weren’t quite so smart? Some
times we look at them and say I can’t
believe the disciples didn’t get that.
Jesus continued to engage them, love
them, and call them back even to the
point when Peter denied, Jesus drew
Peter back in.
January 2013
Verse 2 - just so we get it straight,
he repeats it: “…if any man think that
he knoweth any thing...” - when we
start to get an understanding or a belief that we got it, we’ve lost it - “…he
knoweth nothing…” To me, the heart
of this issue is a clear understanding
of grace. If we get a clear understanding of grace in our minds, we will
never become arrogant or puffed up
because grace says what? It’s not of
works. It’s not about me. It’s the gift
of God. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Titus goes on to develop on that
teaching from Ephesians to say it’s
not just salvation. The grace of God
that saves us teaches us that, denying godliness and worldly lusts, we
should live righteously and justly in
this present world (Titus 2:12). But
notice it’s not us doing that, it’s grace.
So if we understand that God took
me as a wretched sinner, separated
from God in the same rebellious
heart that the king of Tyrus had, and
graciously, mercifully saved me, set
me on the rock of Christ, and now
is graciously teaching me, molding
me, and moving me along, I don’t
become arrogant do I? We don’t
become arrogant in that mindset because we realize it’s not me, it’s God.
Paul said that - it’s not I, but Christ
within me (Galatians 2:20).
So if we walk across the street
to invite our neighbor to church,
we don’t do it in an arrogant way.
We don’t go over to them and say,
“I’ve got all this figured out. Let me
tell you…” No, we go over to them
gracefully and say, “I’ve found Jesus.
He saved a wretch like me, and He
can save you also.” We offer that. As
one person said, one beggar sharing
the bread that I found with another
beggar - that level of humility.
“But if any man love God…” v.3.
The heart of this teaching is that
when we see and recognize God as
God over all, we really come to know
God. It comes in the form of a love
relationship with Him. The reason
we interact with someone else in love
is because we have first been loved
by God. I would encourage you right
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now to examine your heart, to stop
and ask why do I do what I do? What
motivates or triggers me to do the
things I do? Is it love for God? If not
then that’s the refining fire. That’s the
chastisement from Ezekiel 28 where
he rebukes them.
I think of Revelation 2 where He
writes to the church at Ephesus.
The church of Ephesus was doing
all kinds of things good. They were
doing all these good things, but He
said you’ve lost your first love. You’ve
lost the love of Jesus Christ and God
as the motivation for doing anything
we do: for being a father, for being a
mother, for being a teacher, for being
an engineer, work, church, or whatever we do. The motivation needs to
come from this knowledge of God as
over all and saving us with His mercy
and His grace and then us receiving
that and loving Him back.
Verse 3 he uses that again - “But
if any man love God, the same is…”
same word - “known of him.” How
did it say it in Ezekiel? They shall
know that I am the Lord their God.
Us know Him, He know us - an intimate relationship, being the center of
what drives us to engage others.
He goes through verse 4 and 5 to
set up verse 6. The specific issue here
is eating meat or not eating meat
which we’re not going to get into,
but he says in the end there’s no such
thing as an idol. In other words,
there are no other gods. We may
think there is. We may put up an idol
or we may have our car or our nation
or whatever. We all pick different
things that try to take preeminence
over God in our lives. Again, the first
commandment - thou shalt have no
other gods before me (Exodus 20:3).
That’s the heart of idolatry. Nothing
should go ahead of God.
When something goes ahead of
God, it is a false god or an idol. In
reality, whether it’s our car or our
spouse, in a destructive way it could
be drugs or alcohol, it doesn’t really
mean it becomes a god. It doesn’t
have any power. We’ve let it have
power of us. So, think of an addict.
47
He becomes addicted to something.
It takes control of them, but is it
really in control? No, God could in
a moment snap them out of that if
they would trust and believe. There’s
really no such thing as other gods or
other idols in a sense of a real knowledge or a real power, but sometimes
we as humanity allow things to come
in and take over our lives.
That’s what happened here in
Ezekiel, and I’d just like to walk
through Ezekiel a little bit because I
thought there were some interesting
comments in here. He says in verse
2, “Son of man, say unto the prince
of Tyrus, Thus saith the Lord GOD;
Because thine heart is lifted up, and
thou hast said, I am a God, I sit in the
seat of God…” So in the case of this
king, his idol was himself. He had let
his heart get over top God as a ruler
and thought, “I’m in charge of this
nation. I’ve got it.”
Most of us aren’t kings so it’s good
for us to contextualize this into
where could I possibly be letting
my heart be lifted up so that I’m not
in surrender to God: it could be as
a dad or a mom in the leadership
of our kids, could be as a leader of
a church, could be a leader in the
workplace, it could be our intellect,
our money, whatever it is - you let
God sort through your heart. “Search
me, O God, and know my heart: try
me, and know my thoughts: And see
if there be any wicked way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.”
(Psalm 139:23-24)
“…thine heart is lifted up, and thou
hast said, I am a God, I sit in the seat
of God…” The first commandment is
thou shalt have no other gods before me. Then Jesus was asked what
the great commandment is - to love
the Lord our God with heart, soul,
and mind (St. Matthew 22:36-38). I
would contend that this threat that
overpowered Israel many times and
here caught the king of Tyrus is the
biggest threat to us as believers - that
is to not put God squarely in the
center of lordship and have a heart
Sermon continued on Page 48
48
Sermon continued from Page 47
surrendered and a love for Him. It is
important that we leave here today
searching our heart and examining
if there is anything that is starting to
take over as lord of our life besides
Jesus.
“…yet thou art a man, and not
God…” v.2 - same principle that was
taught in I Corinthians 8. You’re
not! You might put something as an
idol, you might put yourself in that
spot, but you’re not. You’re a man,
and that’s the problem with idolatry
because anything we put in the place
of God in our life will fail.
Men love to put men up. Look at
America. We have gone crazy in the
Hollywood characters and sports
heroes. That’s our latest craze, but it’s
been like that forever. We love ancient rulers and generals, and we love
to put men up. Even in the church
we sometimes raise up ministers and
elders as up here. We need a respect
- children, you need to honor father
and mother; we need to respect
leadership in the church and in the
government, but they cannot be
raised up to this idolatrous level. “…
thou art a man...” We are all men. We
are not God, but we as humans tend
to set other things up in place of God
as Number 1.
Verse 4 - sometimes it is out of
great talent. He had wisdom and understanding, and he got great riches.
Sometimes we do great things.
Maybe we are a very gifted mom
or dad. Maybe we are a very gifted
engineer or employer. Maybe we’re a
very gifted leader in some sense, and
things go well. That’s not bad. It’s bad
when all of the sudden we take the
reigns back, and we start to say we
are really something. It’s not right. It’s
God’s grace. It is God who is sovereign. He allows you to have what you
have - the gifts within you, the material blessings you have.
He got many riches - silver and
gold it says in verse 4. Look at verse
5. “…thine heart is lifted up because
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of thy riches”. Because of wealth, he
started to trust in himself. Verse 6 he
repeats again, “…set thine heart as the
heart of God”. He talks again about
the many riches and powerful things
he laid up here for them.
Verse 15 - we don’t have time to
flush this one out, but I think it’s
worth touching on it. It struck me
when I went through it. “Thou wast
perfect in thy ways from the day that
thou wast created…” We have been
created as humans in the image of
God, right? So all of the creative nature of God, such as we make things,
we create things, we think through
things, we can relate to people, we
have relationships, we love - lots of
qualities and communical properties
of God - we have all these properties that were given to us by God as
we were created by Him. But “…till
iniquity was found in thee.” Each of
us has a sin nature that we have to
deal with.
As humans we have to realize that
some talent we are using is something that God built into us. As
humans He gave us a talent. If we
have a talent to be a good listener, to
understand the Word, be a teacher,
or whatever it is, all that talent is
something that came out of how we
were created by God. He has all that
gift and ability, and He made us in
His image.
Where it spills over then is when
we start to think that certain talent
is ours. Our human sin nature and
Satan are just ready to help us drive
that home and just push where all of
the sudden we start saying, “Well, I
have this gift…” The realization in
verse 15: we have been created in
God’s image, beautifully talented,
and His creation, but at the same
time we have this iniquity found
within us that we have to deal with.
Verse 22 - “…Thus saith the Lord
GOD; Behold, I am against thee…”
None of us, I know, ever want that
to be said. We need to have a healthy
dose of reality that says, “I don’t want
January 2013
that so I need to be humble, trusting,
and looking to God so I don’t find
myself in a position where God says
behold I am against thee.”
“…I will be glorified in the midst of
thee: and they shall know that I am
the LORD, when I shall have executed
judgments in her, and shall be sanctified in her.” To me verse 22 says it
doesn’t make any difference whether
you surrender or not, whether we are
Pharaoh or whether we are Moses
- one instrument of God and one
instrument of God; one a godly instrument of God and one an ungodly
instrument of God - God is sovereign. He is going to be glorified. He
is going to execute His judgments.
He is going to be sovereign over the
world.
In verse 24: “…despised them; and
they shall know that I am the Lord
GOD.” The despised are going to
know, and then again in verse 26,
let’s close there, “…when I have executed judgments upon all those that
despise them round about them; and
they shall know that I am the LORD
their God.” He wants us to know.
I think of the Scripture that says
every knee is going to bow and every
tongue is going to confess that Jesus
Christ is Lord (Romans 14:11).
Whether we bow here or whether in
eternity, He eventually humbles us by
His sheer strength, and we bow. May
each of us come to that point where
we want to have the complete ‘knowing knowledge’.
Verse 6 of 1 Corinthians 8 - “But to
us there is but one God, the Father, of
whom are all things, and we in him;
and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom
are all things, and we by him.” That
is absolutely our belief - not in our
head, because I know all of us have
it there, but that it sinks down to our
heart, and in our daily life that’s how
we live, the way we treat our neighbors, and the way we live our lives by
submission to Christ.
January 2013
SILVER LINING
Used Bible, Bible Story Book, and Song Book Distribution
We currently have outlets for Bibles, Bible Story Books, Hymns of Zion, Zion’s Harp, Gospel Hymns, and
Tabernacle Hymns. The cost of sending books airmail to foreign countries is greater than what new books
could be purchased. We are currently working with organizations (such as Christian Aid Ministries) that send
materials to foreign countries by sea container, which is more reasonably priced. Some of the books are also
used by U.S. churches and missions. Thank you for providing these materials and for those who help repair
them.
Jerry and Arlene Banwart
307 First St.
Congerville, IL 61729
(309) 265-0857
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: (held monthly at guesthouse residence) 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM
For schedule, see: www.acmission.org/minister-rotation
For information and reservations, contact caretakers:
Bro. Mark and Sis. Sandy Stork
4733 Birdie Lane NW
Rochester, MN 55901
(507) 288-0072
Mid-week Service: (held on 3rd Wednesday in Rochester area)
For information, contact:
Bro. Jim and Sis. Deb Tilbury
(507) 281-2875
Important Notice to Americans Crossing
the Canadian Border by Land
All adults will need just ONE of the following documents:
1. Regular U.S. passport
2. U.S. passport card
3. Enhanced driver’s license
4. Any Trusted Traveler Program (for example, Nexus card)
U.S. citizens under the age of 16 (or under the age of 19 if traveling with a school, religious, or other youth
group) may present a birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a naturalization certificate. Birth
certificates can be original, photocopy, or certified copy.
49
January 2013
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50
Our Spiritual Heritage
A study of history, of any kind, includes not only pertinent fact, dates,
and interesting occurrences, but
everyday matters of personal interest. These latter stories add to the
richness of history. Tidbits of interest
will be included below in this month’s
Remembering column.
Minister Tenure
As far as can be determined, John
W. Schmidt of the Roanoke, Illinois
congregation served the longest
in his duties as a minister in our
church denomination. He was a
minister for 72 years, and lived to
the age of 95. He died on October
7, 1939. From Marching To Zion,
the following documented facts
tell about Elder John W. Schmidt:
“He was a tailor who moved first to
Peoria and later lived in Eureka. He
was an early forefather in America,
having preached occasionally at the
Partridge Prairie church (west of
Roanoke, Illinois). He had the title
of Assistant Elder. In the German
language, this translates to Miteldister, meaning serving “with the
Elder.”
Unique Testimonies
On June 14, 1924, a singing was
held at the home of John Schrock at
Wichita, Kansas. The three sons of
Alfred Lambert -- Frank, Earnest,
and George -- were present at this
singing, a first one they attended.
In December, 1924, these three
young brothers were taken up at the
church in Burlington, Oklahoma.
Interestingly, they were taken up at
the same time on the front bench.
Elder Kurz approved this with the
consent of the congregation.
lia Dapper offered their home for
worship, and this continued for 8
years. This began in 1930. At this
time there was no local minister.
In 1934, John Dapper pleaded with
Elders Ernest Graf, Jr., (Akron,
Ohio) and Eli Dotterer (Latty, Ohio)
that unless a minister would soon
be chosen, the little congregation
would “starve spiritually.” Unknown
to him, these Elders canvassed
he congregation and a consensus
developed that John Dapper qualified to serve them. John Dapper was
then chosen to be their first minister
at Maywood. In time a new church
was built and dedicated in July,
1938.
Diligence In Ministry
Request
Robert Young, who had moved
from Gridley, Kansas to Wichita,
Kansas in 1938, was placed in the
ministry in 1939. He was the first
local minister at the Wichita congregation. In 1954, he and his wife,
Dora, and family moved to a farm
near Virgil, Kansas. They traveled
from Virgil, Kansas to Wichita -- a
distance of 100 miles as he faithfully
served the church. They moved back
to Wichita in 1964.
The Remembering column is seeking additional stories, relics and
interesting historical incidents per
our Apostolic Christian legacy.
Although our files are packed with
data of the past, I am sure there
remains a multitude of facts of faith
and courage of our forefathers and
foremother. Please send information
to Remembering Column, P. O. Box
404, Pontiac, IL 61764
At the end of the singing, Alfred
Lambert, took the Scriptures and
began to read in Matthew 24. He got
to verse 15 and suddenly slumped
and fell out of his chair. His sons
caught him and gently laid him on
a bed “and soon he went to sleep.”
His sudden death then spoke to his
three sons, and they began their
repentance.
House Church
In the early days of the Maywood,
California church, John and Ju-
By Perry Klopfenstein
Next Issue: More stories and tidbits
January 2013
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51
The Light of Hope
Judge Not
Retired Elder Bro. Willis Ehnle, formerly of Shioda, Japan
In the Sermon on the Mount, the
Lord Jesus taught us, “Judge not.” Do
we judge more than what is pleasing
to God? It is a question worth
considering, especially because we
usually can see faults more readily
in others than in ourselves. Also,
judging or criticizing others makes
us feel better about ourselves, so it
can become a real temptation.
Jesus went on to say, “For with
what judgment ye judge, ye shall
be judged.” What do you think this
means? I have to think that the fault
I see in someone else may not be as
bad in God’s sight as the different
fault that I have in myself.
I have said, “If you can’t say
something good about another
person, don’t say anything.”
However, if I were asked about the
conduct or appearance of another
person, it isn’t always possible to say
only good things. Then I wonder
if it is all right to say what is not in
accordance with the Bible, regarding
another person. Perhaps this is only
stating facts, that something is not
in accordance with the Bible. It may
be in that case that it is God’s Word
that is doing the judging.
In Romans 12:3 we find the words,
“And I say, through the grace given
unto me, to every man that is among
you, not to think of himself more
highly than he ought to think.”
It is a temptation for some to
think more highly of themselves
than they ought to think. Others
are tempted to despise themselves.
This can be dangerous because
it sometimes leads to depression
and it makes us unable to function
properly as a child of God in helping
others. I believe the Bible teaches
us to realize we are nothing without
Christ but that with Him, we can do
all things. Philippians 4:13.
It may be that the Lord Jesus was
teaching us that we should not judge
others because it tends to make us
proud of ourselves, when none of us
are anything without Christ. We are
nothing. However, with Christ we
are children of God and joint-heirs
with Christ, the highest position
human beings can attain.
Some may warn, “Don’t judge me
by my outward appearance. It is the
condition of the heart that is most
important.” But the Bible has many
teachings about our appearance. In
1 Peter 3:3, 4 “Whose adorning let
it not be that outward adorning of
plaiting the hair, and of wearing of
gold, or of putting on of apparel; but
let it be the hidden man of the heart,
in that which is not corruptible, even
the ornament of a meek and quiet
spirit, which is in the sight of God of
great price.”
I have thought that we should not
judge whether another professing
Christian is really saved or not.
If there is something about that
person which is not according to
the Bible, we can state that as a fact
and give the Scripture quotation.
That is stating a fact. But to say
those people (or that person) are
not saved, is better left with God,
according to my understanding.
That may be included in Christ’s
statement, “Judge not.”
Now the thought comes to me that
judging not only pertains to judging
individuals but it also pertains
to judging other churches. All
Protestant Churches are the result
of what might be called judging the
spiritual condition of the prominent
church of the Middle Ages. Perhaps
it can be said that it was just stating
the facts, that God’s Word did the
judging. There is a danger though,
that the Protestant Churches have
become proud. The devil tries to get
us, one way or another.
Do you believe that God judges
us according to what group we are
in? Or, must we each individually
work out our soul’s salvation? I
believe we are each responsible for
ourselves, regarding whether or not
we are abiding in Christ, and how
much we care about following the
instructions in God’s Word.
I have been discussing this topic,
“Judge Not,” partly because I don’t
want to be guilty of doing what
Jesus, the Son of God, plainly told us
not to do. I believe it has something
to do with putting ourselves above
others, as if we are better than they
are. My understanding is that we
of ourselves are not one iota better
than anyone else. Romans 3:23 tells
us that, “All have sinned and come
short of the glory of God.”
It seems to me that the Scripture
from 1 Peter about having a meek
and quiet spirit, which in the sight
of God, is of great price, is a very
important Scripture. Let us kindly
and with love, exhort each other to
follow the Scriptures more closely
(and to have a meek and quiet spirit
is part of following the Scriptures).
As always, I am willing to be
taught, but I wonder about some
of these things, such as Christ’s
commandment, “Judge Not.” Let’s
be careful about judging others in
2013.
THE SILVER LINING
1523 County Road 400N
Congerville, IL 61729