- Apostolic Christian Church of America
Transcription
- Apostolic Christian Church of America
Vol. 71, #3 Mar. 2016 “And as … the feet of the priests that bare the ark were dipped in the brim of the water, the waters … were cut off: and the people passed over…” Joshua 3:15-16 INSIDE THIS ISSUE Walking in Peace page 3 Monthly Sermon page 4 HarvestCall Ministry Program Updates page 6 Understanding the Bio-Psycho-SocialSpiritual Model page 8 Remembering Our Spiritual Heritage page 70 The Light of Hope page 71 To Our Readers Correspondence For April issue (news from Feb 16-Mar 15) Due: Mar 20, 2016 “THE GIFT” Dear Readers, as we look forward to the celebration of Easter, do we truly grasp the immensity of the gift we’ve been given? God so loved us that He sent His only begotten Son from heaven to become flesh and blood and to be sacrificed for our sins! Blood had to be shed. For without the shedding of blood there can be no remission of our sins. (See Leviticus 17:11; Hebrews 9:22.) So after He was tried, tested, and in all ways tempted such as you and I are, yet without sin, Jesus continued in obedience, yielding Himself into the hands of His Father. And God took His Son, nailed Him to a cross, and there made Him, who had never sinned, to be sin for us. “Who his own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.” 1 Peter 2:24 God in Christ did this for us, not by counting our sins or transgressions, but out of love for all mankind. How will we respond today to His gift of mercy? May we all give thanks for the awesome, unspeakable, sacrificial gift of salvation, and live every day in gratitude for the Lord’s incomprehensible love and grace. Wishing you all a very blessed Easter! Bro. Jeff Grimm, together with Bro. Rick Plattner, Counseling Elders The Silver Lining 1523 County Road 400N Congerville, IL 61729 USPS 496780 Published Monthly by the Apostolic Christian Church of America Counselors: Rick Plattner, Jeff Grimm Official Apostolic Christian Church Website: www.apostolicchristian.org Send correspondence to: [email protected] (email is preferred) The Silver Lining 1523 County Road 400N Congerville, IL 61729 Ph: 309-657-4455 The Silver Lining subscriptions are due from the following churches: 1. Congerville 2. Garden Grove 3. Gridley, IL 4. Lamar 5. Phoenix 6. Bloomfield 7. Silverton 8. Valparaiso 9. Washington, DC 10.Zapata Front cover: Jordan River, Yardenit, Israel. Back Cover: Song Book and Calibrachoa. 2 SILVER LINING March 2016 Periodical non-profit postage paid at Roanoke, IL 61561 and additional Suggested donation: $18/subscription. post offices. The subscription rate is Send all payments to: Apostolic Christian Publications P.O. Box 52 Eureka, IL 61530 of address. Send both old and new a donation. Send zip number with address. Remember to send changes addresses (with both zips). Postmaster send address changes to: The Silver Lining 1523 County Road 400N Congerville, IL 61729 Writings based on God’s Word Light from the Word Walking in Peace “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” 1 What is Peace? In the Bible, particularly the Old Testament, peace is often referenced in the context of war or conflict among people—as the absence of such conflict. War is nearly always a result of one nation, (or leader) desiring what belongs to another – territory or power. It may be motivated by envy, greed, or even because of a perceived insult, which is pride. War is a costly effort that saps the economy of both attacker and attacked. It is a destructive force that kills and maims the innocent as well as those who are pressed into service as soldiers. Often, it depletes a nation of a generation of young men. Those who instigate war— and other forms of conflict among people—indulge their selfish interests, expecting that others will pay the price to benefit them. And though innocents are drawn into the conflict and often strive valiantly to put an end to it, the loss is often incalculable. The spiritual conflict that Satan is waging against God is war. In an effort to elevate himself to the throne of God, the devil attempts to entice men into his service. When we walk in sin, we are taking up arms with Satan against God. In many ways, sin is a form of spiritual terrorism, propagated by Satan, the enemy of the soul. The purpose of terrorism is to induce fear and create a climate of mistrust. Although it may not be the conscious intent of a sinner to induce fear and create mistrust, it is often the unintended consequence and has the same result. Those who have been the victims of lies or slander learn to guard against being deceived again–making it difficult to trust anyone. Those who have been the victims of greed learn to become protective of their goods—resulting in distrust and a hardened heart. The effects and harm from sin often reach far beyond the initial transgression. Although the victims of sin are other human beings, on a spiritual level sin is also an act of rebellion against God. If we deliberately and habitually sin, we become active participants on Satan’s behalf in his war against God. Walking in peace with God The first step in walking in peace means that we no longer take up arms in Satan’s war against God. God has done more than His part to make peace. He has offered terms of peace that are unheard of in the world. He has paid the price Himself. In many wars, the victors claim reparations from the conquered–money to repair the damages caused. In the spiritual war, God—although the victor–has accepted the costs and the responsibility to repair the damages, by accepting the blood of His own Son in payment, and by offering to heal the brokenhearted in order to repair the damage that was caused. God has provided pardon, healing, and liberty to those who are willing to trust Him. He has promised peace. “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” 2 Peace with God is the certain result of genuine faith in the shed blood of Jesus. This saving faith, which enables us to cease walking in sin, is the first step toward walking in peace. As a soldier laying down his arms in surrender, the new believer forsakes the life of sin that he once led and by faith has peace with God. However, it is essential to not only cease from sin, but also to pursue righteousness. Peter quotes Psalm 34 and teaches us to seek peace and pursue it.3 Walking in peace with God means that we will no longer participate in Satan’s attacks against God. We will depart from evil and do what is good. Perhaps this pursuit of peace and active righteousness — Please turn to pg. 63 March 2016 SILVER LINING 3 Monthly Sermon Sermon by Bro. Bill Brake, Sardis, OH Ecclesiastes 3, Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 & Luke 2:1 - 21 Greetings, Dear Ones. I surely would have liked to greet each of you personally, but that’s pretty difficult to comprehend that. I ask you to pray for the Word. We’re here for the purpose of worshipping God. God really wants us to hear His Word and obey His Word. Right now we have the opportunity again to hear His Word. It’s always a question when we open the Word randomly and seek to find what the Lord would have us to read and to meditate upon for the next few minutes here. The Word is open in St. Luke 2, the birth of Jesus. We probably all know that account pretty well. We wonder now what’s going to be here for me, for us, for all of us. There’s quite a few people gathered here. We realize that God is going to speak to every one of you. We’re going to read about the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. The twenty-first verse came to me in a little different way today. “And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb”. Of course we know that God had planned this from the beginning of the creation - a very special day when His Son would be born in this world. It really puts it in words we can understand, those of us who are adults and have seen and experienced the miracle of birth. Jesus was born of a woman. His mother was Mary. His Father was the Holy Spirit. His Father was God Himself. He was called Jesus because that was foretold already before this came to pass. So how did Mary and Joseph come to this point in time? They knew to some extent what was happening. The angel had revealed it. They had 4 SILVER LINING March 2016 accepted their responsibilities, their role as parents to this special Child. They lived in Nazareth, I believe. It shows us here that we don’t always connect our situation with what’s going to be down the road. Just thinking back quite a few years, a visiting minister came to Sardis from Bluffton, Orville Ringger. I was unconverted at the time and in college and was home for the weekend in Sardis. I was going through a very serious struggle with submitting to God’s will. It was either a weekday evening or a Saturday evening we had a service at the church. Brother Orville brought forth a message that was just exactly what I needed to hear. It wasn’t long that I started to repent. That was the beginning of a wonderful walk of life. There are so many things we don’t know, we don’t understand, we don’t comprehend, we can’t visualize about how the future’s going to be, but God knows and He has our best interest in His mind, in His heart. The Word tells us that. The Word tells us that He loved us before we knew Him. That will be evident in all of our lives at some point. We trust that the friends that are gathered here would take hope in that, would put their trust in that God knows our needs and what we should do. He wants to bless us. So here was this married couple, Joseph and Mary. They knew what was coming, but here all of a sudden there was a decree from Caesar that all the world should be taxed. We know how people view that. Just about everybody complains about taxes. If you look at world history, we really don’t have anything to complain about because the tax rate here and in most of history has been pretty exorbitant. I suppose there was a lot of complaining. I suppose it didn’t just fit Joseph and Mary’s plan very well that they would have pick up and travel to Bethlehem to satisfy the Roman government, but they went. It says, “And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child” (v.3-5). So it was the situation that wasn’t ideal anyway you look at it. Some of us brothers and our wives even would look back to that day when we got our draft notice and think about the concerns we had for the future, what we had to set aside, give up or go away from in order to comply with the decree of government. Brother Fred and I and you other brothers wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for that decree. Just an example of how things fall out in our lives. I guess there were alternatives. Some young men went to Canada and some perhaps went to jail to resist the government. Like Joseph here, we felt that we should comply. “And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered” (v.6). This baby was going to be born in Bethlehem. Probably Mary had parents in Nazareth. Joseph probably had parents in Nazareth, aunts and uncles, people to help out, but here they were in Bethlehem and couldn’t even find a place to sleep. We heard this morning how Jesus had to sleep on the Mount of Olives on the ground because there weren’t any people in Jerusalem He knew or knew Him at that time who would take Him into their home. But they found a place in a barn we’d call it because there was no room in the inn. We wouldn’t even think of going to the Holiday Inn to have a child, and here they were in the stable with the animals. “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” (v.7). Jesus was born. When we have babies born today, we have the exact time right down to the second. They know the length and the weight and all kinds of important information. Jesus was born at an exact moment of time approximately 2,000 years ago. “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night” (v.8). This was a tremendous message that was brought to them by angels. How many of us have seen an angel? Shepherds were not among the highest of society in that day. They would have been on the other end actually. It says they were abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. It tells me they were doing their job. Whatever job we have or wherever we are in this current time we have something to do. We need to be doing it. Abiding and keeping. It’s a positive approach. It doesn’t say they were complaining about their job or neglecting the care of the sheep or anything else like that. They were abiding and keeping. They had the privilege that the Lord chose them to announce the birth of Christ to. Then we say why them? Why not someone else? Where would we have been in that day and time if we were living back then? I hope we wouldn’t have been among those who rejected the Lord, but you know so many did. So many totally rejected the Lord. “And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid” (v.9). I think anyone would be afraid if they were in the presence of an angel. “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” And then they announced: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” And then the sign of the birth in the stable: “Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger” (v.10-12). No sooner than that happened, it says, “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (v.13-14). So probably they were saying I can’t believe my eyes. I don’t know what to think. I don’t — Please turn to pg. 64 March 2016 SILVER LINING 5 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus... – Colossians 3:17 Ministry Program Updates Hearing and Seeing In Acts we read that Philip went down to the city of Samaria proclaiming Christ and serving others… “And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.” (Acts 8:5-6) Believers visually communicate the effects of the Holy Spirit in their lives by the way they live and by deeds that reflect the love of Christ. By singing in prison Paul and Silas visually demonstrated the joy of living for Christ; an attitude and lifestyle that was surely profound to the Philippian jailer as he saw the effects the Holy Spirit had on these two men of God. Later that evening, this same jailer asked Paul and Silas the most important question in all eternity; “What must I do to be saved?” The Bible says that Paul and Silas spoke unto him the word of God and he and all of his house believed. (Acts 16:32-34) While God often uses visual demonstrations of lifestyle and deeds of compassion to soften hearts and open ears of unbelievers, words are required to communicate his message and explain the cause behind transformed lives. “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Romans 10:17) One of God’s greatest gifts to us is language; it is this special gift that enables his children to obey his command recorded in Matt 28:18-20, Mark 16:15, Luke 24:47, John 20:21, and Acts 1:8. How else can we convey the essentials of salvation? The tag line “proclaim Christ and serve others,” derived from the purpose statement of HarvestCall, represents the call to all believers to demonstrate and proclaim the gospel by word and deed. God often uses his children’s visual lifestyle and deeds of service to prepare the soil, and it is by words that the seed is sown and people receive the answer to the all important question: “what must I do to be saved?” “And the eyes of them that see shall not be dim, and the ears of them that hear shall hearken.” (Isa. 32:3) 6 SILVER LINING March 2016 Oh, may it be that as we proclaim and serve, men and women will see and hear…and believe! – John Huber, Exec. Director, HarvestCall Thankful for the Past, Hopeful for the Future Carribean Committee – Hospital Lumiere There have been many changes during the past five years since Apostolic Christian World Relief (now HarvestCall) assumed management of daily operations at Hospital Lumiere. With God’s blessings and the continued support of the brotherhood, missionaries and their families have moved to the hospital and improvements have been made in the quality and scope of medical services provided. Major renovations have been completed in all four medical wards, the out-patient clinic, surgical wards, patient welcome center and in most support areas. More Patients Receiving Care Many Haitians who previously had difficulty obtaining relief from their suffering now receive treatment and experience healing due to the improvements at Hospital Lumiere. In the last five years, inpatient census at Hospital Lumiere has risen over 50% to an average of 56 per day. Out-patient clinic visits and medical procedures are both up over 250%. These increases illustrate how God has blessed the Hospital Lumiere project and has made it to prosper to better provide critically needed healthcare in Haiti. Providing Spiritual Support As God has used Hospital Lumiere to provide a place of relief to people in the tender moments of physical trauma and need, the truth of the gospel Together for morning devotions has been shared and used as a living example of Christ’s teachings. Our missionary families along with visitors and employees gather for devotions, pray with patients, uplift them with hymns and give encouragement to them and to their family members. In addition, over 5,000 Bible tracts are distributed at the hospital annually. Through these efforts and with God’s blessings, many lives have been surrendered to the Lord Jesus and all have had the opportunity to have their Christian faith strengthened. Missionaries Face Challenges There are currently 21 Apostolic Christian missionaries and family members living at Hospital Lumiere. The opportunity to serve in Haiti has provided our missionaries with individual growth as well as collective growth as a missionary family. Daily challenges make all recognize their inability to function without fervent prayer. Given godly wisdom, they can face each situation and seek to resolve it in a way that advances the mission of the hospital, gives glory to Jesus Christ and reinforces the truthfulness of God’s Word. Please keep them in your prayers. Impacting our Brotherhood The Hospital Lumiere mission has provided an excellent opportunity for many brethren and friends to serve in an unfamiliar culture. Being involved has helped develop compassion, a Christ like virtue. It has also given a greater perspective of adversity and how people can deal with it. To see the Haitian people’s joy and faith, despite their hard life circumstances, has been an encouragement to many. Because of Hospital Lumiere, many have had the opportunity to grow spiritually, widen their world vision and understand God’s love and presence beyond their previous life experiences. As one brother reflected— “Perhaps God led the Apostolic Christian Church to assume management of this mission, not so much so we can serve the Haitians, but for the benefit and blessing of our beloved brotherhood.” Hopeful for the Future With the completion of the solar project, adequate clean power is available at Hospital Lumiere. Reliable power will open doors and enable the hospital to provide an expanded scope of medical services (like digital radiography) to the people of Haiti. We ask for God’s continued guidance and direction in this mission. People are still in need of excellent and effective medical care with compassion and Christian love. And for that, we are grateful for your ongoing prayers and support. And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick. Matthew 14:14 – Rich Bertschi, Treasurer, Hospital Lumiere March 2016 SILVER LINING 7 Understanding the Bio-Psycho-Social- We read in Psalm 139:14, “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” Truly, we are fearfully and wonderfully made. God made human beings at the pinnacle of His creation. From the miracle of life seen in a newborn baby to the latest advances in scientific research, God’s design continues to bring us to awe. God created human beings with four primary aspects of life: the biological, psychological, relational, and spiritual. Understanding these facets allows us to be better stewards of each area and helps us honor God’s design. Personal stewardship in these areas consists of the care and maintenance of our lives, for which God has made us responsible. In today’s society, it is common for people to either neglect or become consumed with the care and keeping of these areas. The concept of stewardship reminds us we are ultimately God’s and are called to take care of what He has given us - neither neglecting nor idolizing it. Below is a brief description of each facet and a few examples for each area. Biological/Physical The Bible calls our bodies the temple of God (1 Corinthians 3:16). God wants us to be good stewards of our bodies and treat them as the place He resides. The biological area deals with doing what is within our control to keep our bodies healthy through exercise, rest, and nutrition. Everyone’s physical makeup, metabolism, genetics, and general health are different. Our health needs may vary greatly from someone else’s needs. Sometimes it is easy to forget about taking care of our bodies when we’re feeling good, only thinking about our health when we’re sick. Taking reasonable preventative measures, such as a regular checkup, are great ways to steward our bodies. • Get adequate sleep and rest. We need adequate sleep to think clearly and handle the tasks of our 8 SILVER LINING March 2016 days. Realize that not getting enough rest may make us more susceptible to sin. The difference between an adequately rested body and a sleep deprived or chronically stressed body is great. • Start small and get started. Let’s says a physician has asked a middle-aged man to exercise and lose some weight because of high blood pressure. He may feel unsure of what to do or defeated before he even starts. However, other times people make such ambitious plans they are unable to sustain them and meet their goals. It is important to be reasonable, start small, but get started. Remember there will never be a convenient time to get started. Don’t be afraid to ask others for assistance and accountability. Spiritual Genesis 2:7 says God made human beings “a living soul.” Unbelievers sometimes try to deny or downplay the spiritual aspect of their lives while other times they seek out “spirituality” that is separated from biblical truth. Regardless of how much an unbeliever tries to stay away from God’s laws, there is no rest for his soul anywhere other than Christ. For believers, the spiritual aspect is focused on the process of sanctification and growing in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18). This includes staying rooted in God’s Word, worship (personal, family, and corporate), prayer, service, recognizing and dealing thoroughly with sin and so on. The goal is for our whole life to be under the Lordship of Christ. • Deal with issues directly. Dealing with issues such as pride, inferiority, lack of forgiveness, covetousness/lack of contentment or poor stewardship will not only help one’s spiritual growth, but will positively affect other areas of life as well. For example, if a woman deals with lack of contentment and grows by God’s grace Spiritual Model into living a grateful life, she will impact others through expressing gratitude and viewing what she has with thankfulness. • Focus on God’s promises. We have been given “exceeding great and precious promises” by God (2 Peter 1:4). Memorizing and meditating on verses of the promises of God will help us have a lively hope (i.e., a confident expectation) and live our lives with a Heavenly perspective. during these times. We must fight against that isolation and reach out for help and support. There is help! Relational God made human beings in His image (Genesis 1:27), and being relational is one of the attributes of that image. He knew already in the Garden of Eden that human beings needed to connect with Him and with one another. He also knew that isolation isn’t good for Psychological/Emotional us; we grow and heal best in relationships. As James Proverbs 23:7 says, “For as he thinketh in his heart, 5:16 says, “Confess your faults one to another, and pray so is he. . . ”. The psychological domain refers to our one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual patterns of thinking, which directly impact how we fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” behave and handle our emotions. We are all familiar • Relationships are blessings. Having good with people whose thinking patterns lead to a joyful relationships is certainly one of the greatest joys outlook on life, while others have a gloom-and-doom of life. In Romans 12:5 Paul explained that the mindset. Scripture teaches us to train our thinking Body of Christ was made up of individual people toward certain things (Philippians 4:8) and away from who were connected to one another, “so we, others (2 Corinthians 10:5). Consider the practical, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one daily benefit to our lives and those around us when we members one of another.” While life can be hard at live out the spiritual truth found in Philippians 4:8, times, God knew having supportive relationships “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever would be an encouragement to us. Ecclesiastes things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever 4:9-10 states, “Two are better than one; because things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever they have a good reward for their labour. For if things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to there be any praise, think on these things.” him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not • We all experience stress. In this life we all another to help him up.” go through times of stress, struggle, and grief. • Relationships can be painful. Difficulties Thankfully, we can take these things to God as well relating to other people, marital problems, as receive support from one another. Periodically dysfunctional families, etc. can sometimes be dealing with stressors is a common occurrence for the source of great pain. Remember that while nearly everyone. However, chronically high stress God expects us to do our part in relationships, eventually leads to a wearing down of our emotional we can only control our behavior. Romans 12:18 and physical health. says, “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live • At times, more help is needed. When clinical peaceably with all men.” Also, God knows how symptoms of depression and anxiety occur, badly bitterness harms human beings. That is special attention is needed. Satan would like to why God speaks so clearly about the need to use shame and embarrassment to keep us isolated — Please turn to pg. 65 March 2016 SILVER LINING 9 Congregation Updates Apostolic Christian Home for the Handicapped of permanent impact we make. This training reminded me that www.achh.org God can do BIG things in a short Social media. amount of time. God has given If no one made a comment, us this incredible opportunity to shared, tagged or looked at a have relationships with teenagers picture or comment we posted, while showing and teaching them would we still post it? Do we post/ who God is. We are able to daily share things because we want demonstrate Christ’s love through others to know what we’re doing, our interactions with them. where we’re going or have been? One resident opened up to Or, do we post/share because it’s Gateway Woods Apostolic me after some time in placement, important to us no matter if others Christian Children’s Home sharing that when she first arrived comment, tag or share? Alyssa Knobloch she did not think she would ever Now, are we kind, polite, like me, and would trust me even – Assistant Houseparent compassionate to those around Recently I had the privilege of less. But, by the time she left, she us because we want others to attending a weeklong training on expressed that she believed I loved “comment, share, tag” us? Or, are counseling individuals with truths and cared about her. The amazing we kind, loving, compassionate and from God’s word. One session (and good) thing is that it is nothing believe in those around us because speaker talked about struggling to of myself; it is the love of God. it’s important to us because God find his grounding when attending 1 Corinthians 3:6-9: “I have has commanded us to do so. “Be college miles from home. During planted, Apollos watered; but God not forgetful to entertain strangers; this time, another Christian gave the increase. So then neither is for thereby some have entertained gentleman chose to mentor him. he that planteth any thing, neither angels unawares.” Hebrews 13:2 The mentor went outside of his he that watereth; but God that Residents, agency wide, own comfort zone to participate giveth the increase. Now he that enjoyed a month of activities. in the speaker’s life. Looking back, planteth and he that watereth are Some of them include Hymn the speaker acknowledged the one: and every man shall receive Sings, Bible Studies, a Valentine’s lasting impression the mentor had his own reward according to his Party, bowling, attending hockey on the speaker’s entire life – and own labour. For we are labourers games, Therapy Dogs coming the surprising part? The mentor together with God: ye are God’s to visit, playing basketball, impacted the speaker in the short husbandry, ye are God’s building.” and other various crafts and period of nine months! News: activities. A favorite is when ISU At Gateway, our residential We are excited to announce music students come to visit program is set up for a six-month that Autumn Gasser has been hired and play music. Residents are time frame, with most residents as our Summer Education Intern. encouraged to play along with staying in placement six months We are searching for a Summer drums, bells, shakers and other to one year. With such a short Volunteer Coordinator for 2016. various percussions. time, I often wonder what kind Please see the notice in this issue 10 SILVER LINING March 2016 As I write the word “resident”, it makes me think that they are more than people that we care for and help throughout the day, they are family. It’s just a reminder that we don’t have to be related to be family. Please visit our website www. achh.org to learn more about us, view job opportunities, current events and ways to help. or contact Bro. Clint Plattner at clint.plattner@gatewaywoods. org or 260.627.0220 for more information. This is a great opportunity to impact the lives of the children on our campus! We are also searching for our Summer Top Quality Coordinator. Please see the notice in this issue or contact Bro. Adam McAfee at [email protected] or 260.627.0220 for more information. This is a great opportunity to gain some experience while impacting our residents! We have a need to fill three career positions at Gateway Woods: an opening for an Alternate Houseparent Couple, one opening for an Assistant Houseparent, and one opening for a Communications Coordinator. For more information please see the notices in this issue or visit the Career Opportunities page on our website at www.gatewaywoods. org/careers. We trust that God will provide qualified, mature brothers and sisters who will serve Him in a ministry that is ‘Turning Lives Around’. Alabama, Athens Apostolic Christian Preschool Kalla Knobloch The themes for February were the color white, health and nutrition, and winter. We also studied letters R through T while taking a short break for Valentine’s Week. We asked the church families to help us with making sugar cookies and then invited them to help the children decorate and eat the delicious treats for our afternoon snack. Our Valentine’s Day party was wonderful. The children sang about God’s Love, passed out Valentines, and shared who loves us and what about them is so special. This is a great time for the parents to come and see what we do. The two-three year olds practiced their cutting skills and colors when they made rainbows and roses for the letter R. The four and five year olds have been working on the human digestive system! They love learning in our science center and making a mess! We have shown the children how our bodies break down food by placing crackers and a banana into a Ziploc bag. We let the teeth (our hands) break down the food that is inside the mouth (Ziploc bag). Then the food in the bag gets passed to the esophagus (paper towel tube) and then to the stomach (grocery sack). Here we add bile (lime juice) to the food and shake it up well. The small intestine (tights with a hole at bottom) is where the body gathers nutrients from the food. After all that the food goes to the large intestine (PVC pipe) to dry out before leaving the body. This was the children’s favorite part of the digestive system. We have also been remodeling our church kitchen and bathrooms. So, for one week this month, we held Preschool across the parking lot at the Fellowship Hall. We were so thankful for the church families during the moving process. They did amazingly well and helped so much! We will be eating at the Fellowship Hall until the project is completed, but we are very thankful to be back at the preschool for class time! We have recently been blessed with seven new students. The current students have been very big helpers with the new children and the remodel. They have loved being the big brothers/ sisters and helping in all sorts of ways! We would like to ask you to keep us in your prayers and in your hearts. Alabama, Athens Monica Price Life continues on and another month goes by…How are you spending your time here on earth? It is easy to get caught up in the business of life and forget that our goal on earth is to worship our Heavenly Father. Let’s consciously use our time to glorify our Father in Heaven. This past month we had Bro. Stephen Baner (Sis. Donnalou, March 2016 SILVER LINING 11 Gridley, IL) share the Word with us. We thank them for the love they have shown us and the time they have given up in order to serve. Our prayers are with Becca Ray as she has had another surgery. May God give her strength and healing. We are thankful that she is feeling better and has been able to come back to church. We have been working on a remodeling project in the church over the past few weeks, which has caused us to relocate our worship service to the fellowship hall for the month of February. We are looking forward to the end of the project, so we can get back in our church building, but we know God is in our presence no matter where we are worshiping. As you think about making plans for Memorial Day this year, we would like you to consider spending the weekend with us. On Saturday and Sunday, May 28-29, we have a program planned filled with food, fellowship, singing and speakers. See the back section of this issue for more details. If you are interested, please RSVP to Sis. Susan Koch at susankoch2@ yahoo.com or (309)202-4897. We would like to extend a welcome to anyone who would like to include Athens in their travels, especially if you are heading north after wintering in the southern states. Please feel free to visit us. If you would like to stay in our guest house, please call Sis. Rebekah Klaus at (815) 6745411 for accommodations. 12 SILVER LINING March 2016 Arizona, Phoenix between those pieces. In the same Marge Lindenbaum day the LORD made a covenant ”And when the sun was going with Abram.” Gen. 15:17-18a down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; The darkness experienced by and, lo, an horror of great darkness Abram earlier was not a natural fell upon him.” Gen. 15:12 darkness, as evidenced by this It is reported in Jewish later verse. When the natural literature that this initial covenant, darkness came, the covenant was designating the people of God and made as God passed through their land, occurred on Nisan 14. the split animals in confirmation This is also the date of Passover of his promise. This ritual was and of the Crucifixion. This most commonly a covenant covenant between God and Abram between a Lord and a servant, and foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment usually the servant was the one of God’s promises to His people in to “pass through the halves” in Christ Jesus. In scripture, “darkness” acknowledgment of what would nearly always refers to death or sin. happen to him if he failed to It seems odd that when making keep his part. Generally only one His covenant with Abram, gifting animal was split. Possibly here, the him and his seed the designation heifer symbolized this covenant of of God’s “ownership” and a land Obedience by Faith (and evidenced of their own, that he would give by circumcision in Genesis 17); the this vision of horror, to show they goat represented the covenant of would be enslaved and afflicted the Law and the ram is symbolic in a different land, away from the of Jesus and the covenant of Grace. land of promise. God is a God of And “I AM” took on the role Truth, and hides nothing from His of servant and walked between children. His promise ends happily, the halves. At this point, God’s that they would come out with great promises of “I will” give the land substance and their captors would and innumerable offspring to be judged. It is also interesting that Abram become “I have”. the reason for their long captivity “Now from the sixth hour there is so the Amorites could reach their was darkness over all the land full “iniquity”. The Amorites were unto the ninth hour. And about Abram’s people of origin. So, his the ninth hour Jesus cried with a offspring would be held by another loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama nation while his ancestors were sabachthani? that is to say, My God, given every opportunity to turn to my God, why hast thou forsaken God, or reach the point where there me?” Matt. 27:45-46 was no hope of that happening. When the sin of the world was “And it came to pass, that, when laid upon him, Jesus was forsaken the sun went down, and it was by His Father. This is the horror dark, behold a smoking furnace, He dreaded when He prayed in and a burning lamp that passed the garden. While Abram was shown the horror of his progeny’s suffering, Jesus experienced fully the enslavement and affliction of sin and death during that time of separation, along with the very wrath of God. Then he succumbed to death. Darkness descended, the earth quaked, the bodies of the dead came out of their graves and walked around the city, and the veil of the temple was torn from top to bottom. It is a mystery (to this writer, at least) whether Jesus was captured by Satan while His body lay in the tomb, but we know He was in Sheol during at least a part of that time (Eph. 4:9). We are given an indication He was preaching to the angels who were entrapped there (1 Peter 3:19). We know God is there (Psalm 139:8, Job 26:6, Prov. 15:11) and He brought Jesus out (Ps. 16:10, Acts 2:27), demonstrating the perfection of the sacrifice, the fulfillment of the ages of promise. “And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said.” Matt 28:5-6a And “I AM’s” promise of “I will” became “I have”. We are very grateful for the many visiting ministers who are willing to serve us while they are away from their home congregation. This month we were blessed by Elder Bro. John Lehman (Sis. Connie, Bern, KS), Bro. Art Mueller (Sis. Marlene, Belvidere, IL), Bro. Wes Moser (Sis. Esther, Lester, IA), and Bro. Jeff Leman (Sis. Val, Bluffton North). We rejoice with the angels, as Jenna Freed made a decision to live for Jesus. Plus, it was announced Robert Newman finds himself at peace with God. We continue to enjoy our winter visitors at our various fellowship gatherings, and welcome all who would like to enjoy our beautiful sunshine to come out for a visit! Arizona, Prescott Autumn Rokey We are thankful for visiting ministers Bro. Lucas Frank (Sis. Crystal) Detroit, Bro. Brian Katich (Sis. Debbie) Phoenix, Elder Bro. Herbie Knochel (Sis. Laurie) and Keith Hinrichsen (Sis. Tammy) from Phoenix. Our Young Group which is growing in size traveled to Phoenix for an invite and had a joyous time! Their theme was joy and Isaiah 61:10 “I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.” Two of our converts, Devan Cargill (Bro. Dan and Sis. Stephanie) and Bridget Koehl (Bro. Lane and Sis. Beth) have shared that they have peace with God and are looking forward to giving their testimonies in April. We are so excited and prayerful for them as they grow in the Lord. A few of our brothers have participated in the HarvestCall work in Bastrop County, TX. It reminds us how thankful we should be for our homes. We pray for their work and safety of all those involved in building in Texas this season. Arizona, Tucson Dean and Jackie Knobloch We are enjoying many visitors here in Tucson, which is a delight to our small congregation. We are thankful for each and every one who adds to our blessings as we gather on Sunday and Wednesday evening. We were privileged to have Bro. Kevin Wulf (Sis. Annie, Morris, MN) minister to us on February 7. God provided His Holy Spirit and we are to heed His Word. We continue to lift up our dear friends Rob and Angie Wilson (son-in-law of Bro. Don and Sis. Glo Bauer) in prayer as Rob struggles with his brain tumor. Our God is a great and merciful God and we commit this dear couple into God’s care. California, Altadena/Los Angeles Kali Sauder “I know not why God’s wondrous grace, To me He hath made known, Nor why unworthy— Christ in love Redeemed me for His own. But I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able, To keep that which I’ve committed, Unto Him against that day.” Hymns of Zion, #109 This hymn exudes such confidence. Life is full of March 2016 SILVER LINING 13 uncertainty, but having settled the greatest uncertainty, the state of our souls, we can rest assured regardless of what may come along the way. “He is able.” Able to save, able to keep, able to help, able to comfort, able to strengthen. “I know not what of good or ill, May be reserved for me, Of weary ways or golden days, Before His face I see. But I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able, To keep that which I’ve committed, Unto Him against that day.” Knowing this to be true, in that confidence we send Sis. Stephany Moser back to China to resume her work for the Lord. She is not separated from the body of Christ, flung into a foreign culture far away, but rather is the fingertip of Christ at the end of an outstretched arm, reaching for those who have yet to know Him. Godspeed, Stephany, and many prayers! We are also thrilled to have a new little life among us! Emery Mark was born this month to Bro. Jim and Sis. Krissa Klotzle, welcomed home by his older siblings: Karlina, Ender, and Aeslyn. And as with all of us, what lies ahead is a path of unknowns, but we entrust his little life to the One “whom [we] have believed”! California, San Diego Annaleise Wagenbach We were blessed by many visitors this month, including ministers Bro. Stephen Baner (Sis. Donnalou, Gridley, IL), Bro. 14 SILVER LINING March 2016 Mike Rieker (Sis. Carol, Peoria, IL), and Elder Bro. Bruce Endress (Sis. Elizabeth, Bradford, IL). The Memorandum was shared by Elder Bro. Lynn Fiechter (Sis. Ronda, Bluffton, IN) and Elder Bro. John Wiegand (Sis. Jane, Silverton, OR). We were encouraged on many fronts. Be authentic and be a living sacrifice, to name a few. Our love and prayers are with Sis. Mary Thiem as she remembers her brother who recently passed on to his reward. We are enjoying our winter residents and the care they show. If anyone is vacationing in the Palm Springs/Palm Desert area this winter please feel free to contact Bro. Doug and Sis. Janelle Brewer at djbrewer2003@ gmail.com or 309-256-9606. We plan to have midweek services starting in January until the end of March. Also, if you know of anyone with church connections living in the area we would also like to know about them so we can reach out to them. This verse was expounded upon in this last month and it offers all believers hope. Philippians 2:9-11 “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Colorado, Denver Naomi Wiegand, Tess Leman Greetings from Colorado! It is with much joy that we share the engagement news of Bro. Josh Martin (Bro. Mike and Sis. Bethann, Denver, CO) to Sis. Olivia Robinson (Bro. Mike and Sis. Elizabeth, Bloomington, IL)! We are thankful that soon we will have another young couple in our congregation. As I write this, Sis. Dominique Lasnier (Sarah Braun) is loading up her vehicle in preparation for her move back to Colorado from Garden Grove, IA. We sympathize with Garden Grove church as we know they are going to miss Sis. Dominique. We are thankful that they have been so loving and supportive of her over the past few years as she seeks out God’s plan for her life. Matthew 6:33 “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Connecticut, Rockville Sheila Gerber, Lauren Gottier “Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.” Romans 12:15 There were many happenings within the Rockville congregation this past month allowing us the opportunity to rejoice with those that are rejoicing, but also the need for us to weep with those that weep. We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Douglas Gottier, who was tragically killed in an automobile accident on February 10. Our sympathy and prayers are extended to his wife, Kim, and his three sons: Nicholas, Lincoln, and Calvin. Also mourning his passing are his parents, Bro. Arthur and Sis. Judy Gottier, as well as many relatives and friends. We also want to keep Bro. David and Sis. Marla Moser in our prayers since the passing of Marla’s grandfather, Bro. Walter Sinn (Latty, OH) on January 15. Our dear Sis. Elsa Champ passed from this life on to her heavenly reward on January 23. Elsa had been living with her daughter, Linda, in New Hampshire for the past 5 months. Also mourning her loss are her two sons, Gary and Guy Champ. We rejoice with the many families that have welcomed new babies into their hearts and homes this past month. Carter Reid Carlson was born to Nate and Ashley Carlson on January 17 and joins brother Logan and sister Dylan at home. Thankful grandparents are Bro. Wally and Sis. Judy Carlson, Thomas and Monique Burns, and Wendy Deprey and Ted Vonasek. Jesse and Julie Brennan welcomed their first son, Hunter Robert, giving sisters Alivia and Autumn a new little brother to love. Grandparents are Bro. Dean and Sis. Miriam Reutter. Welcoming their first child are Bro. Sam and Sis. Laura Greenbank. Their daughter Skye Emily was born February 8. Rejoicing grandparents are Bro. Terry and Sis. Cindy Virkler and Bro. Glen and Sis. Joan Greenbank (Akron, OH). And lastly, Bro. Ben and Sis. Ashley Wagenbach have been blessed with their first child. Brady Drew was born February 15 and is the grandchild of Bro. Dale and Sis. Mary Wagenbach and the first grandchild for Bro. Bruce and Sis. Karen Luginbuhl. We want to welcome Bro. Brandon and Sis. Sarah Gudeman along with their son Micah, as they are now making Rockville their home church. We were thankful to have the privilege of two visiting ministers to bring forth God’s word. Bro. Tyler Joos (Sis. Tonya, Bradford, IL) and Elder Bro. Dan Kilgus (Sis. Jenna, Remington, IN) were with us on February 14. We were exhorted to bring our minds to the subjection of Christ and allow God to displace the strongholds in our hearts. District of Columbia, Washington Henrietta Meyer We were very thankful to meet our caretaker for February, Bro. Jerry Messner (Winthrop, MN). If you feel led to support one of our small churches, being caretakers here would be a wonderful way to do so. If you are interested and are free to spend 3-4 weeks in the DC area, please contact Sis. Doreen Steffen at dkgsteffen@ gmail.com or 302-540-6574. She reports there are a few months still available this year. Our ministers this month were Bro. Jerry Isch (Sis. Linda, Philadelphia, PA), Bro. Todd Graf (Sis. Lydia, Akron, OH) and Bro. Jeremiah Psinas (Morton, IL). Other visitors this month were from Champaign, IL. Since last month’s article was written we have had almost 30 inches of snow, temperatures in the 60s and wind chill numbers around zero. With all the changes, we are grateful for an unchanging God. Also, we are thankful that national and local churches provide ways for us to listen to services when we are unable to travel. If you are planning to visit Washington, D.C. area for vacation or business, please contact Bro. Joe and Sis. Holly Bohart at [email protected] or Sis. Henrietta Meyer at 703 9048301 for assistance and to let us know how many to expect for Sunday services. Florida, Ft. Lauderdale Renee Mangold We were blessed to have several visiting ministers this past month. Visiting were Bro. Stephen Baner (Sis. DonnaLou) Gridley, IL; Elder Bro. Earl Ringger (Sis. Dixie) Gridley, IL; Bro. Rick Kaisner (Sis. Michelle) Chicago, IL; Bro. Doyle Frauhiger (Sis. Jane) Bluffton North, IN; Bro. Chuck Kellenberger (Sis. Debbie) Elgin, IL; Bro. Tom Bahler (Sis. Lanae) Rockville, CT; and Elder Bro. Kevin Ryan (Sis. Cheryl) Rockville, CT. We pray for a blessing on these ministers and their families for the work they do in sharing our Lord’s word. We are thankful that Sis. Josephine Martin returned home March 2016 SILVER LINING 15 after a brief hospital stay. Our prayer is that God will continue to keep His hands on her and give her strength and health. Communion was held on Wednesday, January 20, allowing all who participated to experience a time of searching themselves prior to, and proving out that their lives and hearts are on a true path with the Lord. We were grateful to hear the Memorandum on Wednesday, January 27. It is important that we are able to hear the ruminations of our Elder brethren during this annual sharing of the Memorandum. We held a Valentine’s Day potluck this month. We had a delicious dinner and a nice time of fellowship. “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.” Ps. 139:23-24 Florida, Ft. Myers Dustin Hodel “Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.” Rev. 19:7 Every year at Valentine’s Day, the Ft. Myers church has a glorious Valentine’s Day potluck. We have a delicious potluck dinner while sitting around Valentine-themed tables and enjoy one another’s company. This year as we were sitting and chatting with the folks around us, I thought about the marital 16 SILVER LINING March 2016 experience in the room. As I looked around I realized there was probably century’s worth of marriage experience between all the couples there. In a day and age where the words “marriage” and “love” are thrown around so flippantly and not handled with the care and sincerity they deserve, I was in a room full of people who understood what both of those words truly mean. The marriages in the room on Valentine’s Day knew about happiness, good times, blessings, romance and the like. They also knew about sacrifice, heartache, forgiveness and suffering and about working through those things because their marriages are not about bringing happiness to themselves, but rather glorifying the Father by becoming one with another human being! Through all of the lows and the highs and the trials and victories, beautiful relationships had been forged by faithfully following Him. It made me think of the verse above where Christ calls us to be His bride. No matter how great our marriages are here and the depth of love we feel for one another, nothing will compare to that marriage celebration! As always we’ve been greatly blessed by the brotherhood this month. Bro. Nathan Wiegand (Sis. Laura, Goodfield, IL), Bro. Matthew Kaufmann (Sis. Rebekah, Bloomington, IL) and Bro. Randy Gudeman (Sis. Becky, Francesville, IN) all came and gave of themselves by ministering to our congregation. We are grateful for the wonderful fellowship we experience during the winter from those looking to escape the cold up north. If you are considering a move to the Naples/Fort Myers area and would like to talk to someone about it, please call Bro. Marvin Steffen at 239-353-0508. He will help you gather information on anything from serving in a small church to job opportunities and housing in the area. The New Beginnings I messed up. Call it a misjudgment, a honest mistake or what have you, but it was my fault. Last June a young lady applied to be in our program and she was very aggressive about needing a place to stay. Most of the time when a mother applies we don’t hear a lot out of her until we make contact saying there’s a spot open. This one was different. At least once a week she called or emailed asking for a place to stay. She was living in a women’s shelter. It was only temporary and could we please help her. This went on for the rest of the year as we had no room for her at the moment. However, this month one of our mothers is getting ready to graduate and so I thought maybe we could make it work. It might be a little cramped for a while, but she needs the help! Things on the applying mother’s end were getting desperate as the state had found out she was living in a shelter and taken her kids away. “I just need to show them I have stable housing and I get them back,” she told me. So we expedited the process and brought her up for an interview and decided to take her in. After bringing her in, I got in touch with her case manager and explained what we do and that this young lady would have long term housing along with guidance and mentorship to help her out. They told me it didn’t matter; that this young lady probably hadn’t been very honest about her situation and that it would be at least a year until she had a chance to get her kids back, not because of stable housing, but because of choices she had made. Boy did I look like a fool. We had brought her in on my recommendation because I had gotten invested into this young lady’s life over the course of the months speaking with her, and, even though I’d only met her once face-to-face, I really wanted to help her and in the process got burned. We had to ask her to leave less than a week after she had come. Do I regret my decision? No I do not. I most definitely learned from the situation, to try and remain objective and use the plans we have to bring someone in rather than rush it, but I’m not sorry for giving her a shot. You see I’m not called to have all the answers or make all the right decisions. I’m called to bring the Gospel to people who need to hear it. Over the months I was in contact with this young lady, I was able to tell her about Jesus and sprinkle God’s word into our conversations. I also would rather try and fail than to have not tried to help her. It doesn’t feel good to be lied to and misled, but the Bible never tells me to make sure someone is telling me the truth before I help them. God just tells me to go and do. I’m continuing to pray for this young lady and hope that our conversations throughout last year somehow find their way to her heart that she remembers there is a God who loves her and she needs Christ and His atoning blood. Would you pray with me? If you are interested in more information on The New Beginnings or would like to have us come make a presentation at your church, please call Dustin at 239-541-4312 or email us at thenewbeginningsofswfl@ yahoo.com. Florida, Sarasota Mary & Vera Martin Once again our little church blossoms as many winter residents and vacationers arrive to enjoy our sunshine. We are blessed with many visiting ministers as they travel in our area and appreciate them taking time to share God’s Word with us. We want to thank Bro. Randy Gasser (Sis. Sue, Detroit), Bro. Tim Ramsier (Sis. Jonell, Rittman), Bro. Ted Hirstein (Sis. Joyce, Morton), Bro. John Cottrell (Sis. Gloria, Eureka), Bro. Michael Thomas (Sis. Claudia, Valparaiso), Bro. Doyle Frauhiger (Sis. Jane, Bluffton North), Elder Bro. Tom Hoffman (Sis. Kathy, Roanoke), Elder Bro. Wayne Banwart (Sis. Charlen, Champaign), Elder Bro. Kent Heimer (Sis. Jan, Taylor), Bro. Dan Stoller (Sis. Debra, Remington) for their willingness to share. Our calendars and schedules fill to capacity as we meet and greet friends from the north. We meet new faces and say farewell to ones we love. We offer our sympathy and yet rejoice that two of our winter residents departed for their Heavenly home. We will miss both Sis Marguerite Stoller (Bro. Delmar Latty) and Sis. Vivian Feldman (Bro. Lyman, Alto) as they were both an important part of church family for many years. We pray for God’s healing hand on Sis. Marie Keller (Bro. Art), Bro. Miklos Bozzay (Sis. Aranka) and Sis. Rosalie Dresloer. We had our annual Auction to support our Sunday School for mission trips and activities in our small church. We want to thank each of you who contributed. Georgia, Peachtree City/ Atlanta Lexi Knapp We have had a month full of many blessings! We rejoice with Wynn Waldbeser (Elder Bro. Tom and Sis. Sue) as he has acknowledged his need for a Savior and turned to Christ in repentance. We wish him God’s abundant blessings as he begins his walk with the Lord. How beautiful it is to see God’s work in each life around us! We also are blessed to welcome Bro. Cody and Sis. Victoria Walburn (West Lafayette, IN) to our congregation. Bro. Cody has a six month internship in Georgia. We are enjoying having them here for this period of time! March 2016 SILVER LINING 17 Also, Elder Bro. Steve Sauder (Sis. Mary, Tremont, IL) assisted in reading the Memorandum the first weekend of February. We are thankful for his service and had a wonderful weekend! We also appreciate Bro. Doug Brewer (Sis. Janelle, San Diego, CA) for ministering to us this past month as well. If anyone is coming to the area, we would love to have you worship with us! Our address is: 202 Robinson Road, Peachtree City, GA 30269. However, please all ahead! (Tom Waldbeser 770.463.4788 or Richard Aberle 678.364.0507). For photos and additional information, visit our website at www.ptcacchurch.org. Haiti, Bonne Fin Hospital Lumiere Rick and Komari Aberle, David and Janella Zimmerman The hospital is well into a new year and busy with visiting medical and construction teams, as well as new volunteers and short-term missionaries. Sis. Rebecca Koch, Tremont, IL, spent 5 weeks at Hospital Lumiere serving patients in need of sonography tests and training some of our staff as a short-term volunteer. She was visited by her parents, Bro. Dan and Sis. Julie Koch, who served us by ministering the Word. Over the past several weeks, we have appreciated the services of an Orthopedic Surgical Team, a Pediatric Team, and a Solar Power Installation Team. We are thankful 18 SILVER LINING March 2016 for their efforts that benefit our patients in both medical care and improving the stability of electricity at the hospital. We are thankful to welcome Sis. Patty Banwart, shortterm missionary, and Moira Kellenberger, short-term volunteer, from the West Bend church. They have joined us to serve here for periods of 3 months and 4 weeks, respectively. They both will be involved with various aspects of the hospital while here. Bro. Marvin and Sis. Nancy Dotterer (Forrest, IL) and Bro. Jon Zeller (Sis. Christie, Morton, IL) visited the hospital here to serve the spiritual needs of the missionary team. May God continue to bless their efforts. We were blessed to assemble together in Cayes for church services this month. Bro. Art Mueller (Sis. Marlene, Belvidere, IL) and Bro. Dale Frank (Sis. Christine, Oakville-Mediapolis, IA) served as ministers. During the coming days, please remember Haiti in prayer as the country continues to struggle through a transition in government. This transition causes uncertainty, unrest and even violence. May God grant peace and continue to draw those in need to Him. “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” 2 Chron. 7:14 Haiti, Les Cayes Mike & Susie Walder Silas Reid Wagenbach was welcomed into the lives of Bro. Brent & Sis. Alisha on February 7. We look forward to meeting this new miracle when they return soon from Indiana! Thankful grandparents are Bro. Doug & Sis. Lillian Wagenbach (San Diego, CA), and Jan & Val Gutwein (Les Cayes). We are enjoying the presence of two single sisters for a few months. Sis. Janae Stork (Forrest, IL) is teaching at the English missionary school some of our younger children attend. Sis. Miranda Kaeb (Fairbury, IL) is living and helping at a nearby orphanage. May God bless their efforts as they share the love of Christ with all those with whom they come in contact. We appreciated the recent visit by two elders and their wives: Bro. Marvin Dotterer (Sis. Nancy, Forrest, IL), and Bro. Vic Bauman (Sis. Brenda, Smithville, OH). Bros. Marvin and Vic were teaching in a 3-day pastors’ conference in Dumay before they came our direction. We wish to thank each of them for their loving encouragement and the kind way they seek to support those of us serving in Haiti. This month we enjoyed an English service here in Cite Lumiere with many local missionaries and two work teams in the area. Bro. Art Mueller (Sis. Marlene, Belvidere, IL) was the visiting minister. He encouraged us to keep our first love intact, Revelations chapter 2. Other ministers in the area recently were Bro. Jon Zeller (Morton, IL) and Bro. Dale Frank (Oakville-Mediapolis, IA). We are thankful for the many visitors who have been able to come, even though the political situation in Haiti has been quite unstable for some time. Illinois, Belvidere Krista Anliker, Shayla Steffen Greetings from Belvidere! We were privileged to have many visitors! The Tremont Choir came and ministered to us through hymns and over the pulpit. Thanks to Elder Bro. Steve (Sis. Mary) Sauder and Bro. Tom (Sis. Jane) Bolliger for bringing forth the Word. We had the opportunity to spend time together as a church family the weekend of our InviteA-Friend. We sang together at church on Saturday, gathered for worship on Sunday, sang at a local nursing home and shared a meal together. May God bless Bro. Jeff Bahler (Sis. Heidi) from Wolcott, IN and Bro. Dean Messner (Sis. Wanda) from Winthrop, MN for sharing God’s Word that weekend. Illinois, BloomingtonNormal Megan Kaeb, Sarah Maurer We were blessed once again with visiting ministers this month. Bro. James Emch and his wife, Sis. Gina, braved the cold and snow to visit us from Phoenix, AZ. In addition to sharing with us on Sunday morning, Bro. James shared his personal story of God’s faithfulness through his life journey on a Saturday evening in January. All who attended were blessed. We also had Bro. Mike Hohulin and Sis. Faye trade in the sun for colder temperatures as they came to visit our congregation. Their newborn grandson was a strong motivator for this visit, but our church family benefited as a result. We rejoiced this month with Demetrius Wiegand (originally from Denver, CO) as he began his faith journey. It is always encouraging to see others commit their lives to Jesus and remind us of the amazing gift of salvation. We also rejoiced with Bro. Darin and Sis. Jessica Leman as they welcomed baby, Haven Joy, into their family on December 22, 2015. Haven is also welcomed by her big brothers and sister and her grandparents: Bro. Howard and Sis. Gloria Leman of Morton, IL, Charlie and Mary Flickner of Kentucky, and Fred and Cynthia Basham of Monticello, IN. And, as February is a month often associated with love, it was only right that we celebrated the engagement of Sis. Olivia Robinson (daughter of Bro. Mike and Sis. Liz Robinson) to Bro. Josh Martin of Denver, CO (son of Bro. Mike and Sis. BethAnn Martin). This month was also filled with sadness as we mourned the passing of loved ones. Sis. Deb DesCarpentrie (and Bro. Grant) mourned the passing of her father, Byron Martin of Gridley, IL. And, Bro. Ray Ringger mourned the passing of his wife, Sis. Nadine. We are so thankful for the hope of heaven, but saying good-bye is never easy. Our prayers are with our dear brothers and sisters as they grieve. Our church was glad to support our Bible Class as they held a dinner to raise funds for their upcoming mission trip to New York City and, to help support the Sunday School’s Pack the Bag with Love Project. This project involves filling “journey bags” for children needing to be taken from their homes and placed in foster care. We are so thankful for the opportunity to show love to those who could be considered the “least of these.” As 1 John 3:18 says, “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.” Illinois, Bradford Roseann Stahl, Sandi Joos Two couples announced their engagement this month. Bro. Lucas Herrmann (Bro. Marvin and Sis. Lavonne, Princeville) to Sis. Lynelle Berchtold, Princeville (Bro. David and Sis. Leann), and Bro. Tyler Endress (Bro. Bill and Sis. Renee’) to Sis. Leah Beery, Rittman, OH (Bro. Walt and Sis. Lynda). Our prayers are with these two couples as they prepare for a life together as one in the Lord. We welcome Sis. Abby Rinkenberger to Bradford. She has relocated due to work. We are glad she is assembling with us on Wednesday evenings. We thank Bro. Donn and Sis. Tracy Ehnle for their years March 2016 SILVER LINING 19 of service in handling the many janitorial duties for our church here in Bradford. We look to Bro. Ralph and Sis. Jenny Joos as they assume these responsibilities. We are glad to have Sis. Sharon Bruell back assembling with us after a recent injury. What a blessing to have visiting ministers with us this past month. Among them were Elder Bro. Jim Plattner (Sis. Marlene), Bro. Erik Givens (Sis. Deb), Bro. Craig Martin (Sis. Terri), Bro. Ryan Hoerr (Sis. Joy), all of Princeville, IL; and Bro. Jim Zollinger (Sis. Tresa, Silverton, OR), and Bro. Ned Stoller (Sis. Heidi, Alto, MI). Along with spring comes the awesome display of God’s creation. God’s beauty is displayed all around us. May we all go forth and look for the miracles within the earth, no matter how great or small, and give Him all glory, honor, and praise for the goodness He has shown us. “For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth; so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.” Isaiah 61:11 We are thankful for our young group, who hosted a Valentine’s Day babysitting evening. The children enjoyed the evening with the young group and their friends. The parents were able to enjoy some quality time together as well. We began a new series of Bible studies this semester, titled “Responding with Grace and Truth.” The first study was on “Standing for Biblical Truth in a World of Tolerance,” which seems very timely with some of the changes and morality struggles this country is facing. The study started by talking about relativism and the difference between “tolerance” and “Tolerance.” The idea of tolerance with a lower case ‘t’ is the action of being respectful and kind to those we think are wrong, because it’s the right thing to do. The idea of Tolerance with a capital ‘T’ is what most people mean today when they say “tolerance,” and it would have us be respectful and kind to others, because there is no right or wrong. Christians should be practicing tolerance, but should not be accepting of Tolerance, as we know from the Bible that right and wrong is absolute. We were given some tips for talking to Illinois, Champaign others who do not know God, and Dona Fehr were reminded of the importance Our sympathy goes out to Bro. of the Great Commission and the Dan and Sis. Mary Schmidgall instruction to “sanctify the Lord and their family in the recent God in your hearts: and be ready passing of Bro. Dan’s father, always to give an answer to every David. We pray the Lord will man that asketh you a reason of the provide comfort for them during hope that is in you with meekness this time. and fear.” 1 Peter 3:15 20 SILVER LINING March 2016 We appreciate our visiting ministers this month. Thanks to Elder Bro. John Wiegand (Sis. Jane, Silverton, OR) and Bro. Rick Kaisner (Sis. Michelle, Chicago, IL) for your service! Illinois, Chicago Diana Eisenmann Greetings from Chicago! We held our annual business meeting in January. Thanks to all who have served and continue to serve in many different capacities on behalf of our church. We appreciate each one. Elder Bro. Brad presented a topical Bible study, “Lessons from Turkey and Greece,” inspired by a recent trip that included stops from the Apostle Paul’s missionary journeys and several of the seven churches mentioned in Revelations. In January, we had a Women of the Word (WoW) Bible study based on “The Mary/Martha Dilemma,”. In February the WoW group hosted an event for the mothers in our congregation. We appreciate the opportunity to fellowship and share life experiences to help one another in our walk with Christ. Illinois, Cissna Park Sandy Rudin, Pam Walder Our congregation has been blessed this month with several visiting ministers: Bro. Zach Anderson (Sis. Karla, Congerville, IL), Bro. Ryan Schock (Sis. Melanie, Bloomfield, IA), Bro. Don Sinn (Sis. Linda, Silverton, OR), and Bro. Dennis Kaufmann (Sis. Bonnie, Bloomington, IL). May God bless them for their labors in His vineyard. Norman Knapp (Elinor) was hospitalized this month. We need to remember our loved ones in prayer who are having health difficulties. Enjoying a precious new grandchild are Bro. Eric and Sis. Louann Kaeb. Leni Jo was born to Trent and Brandi Kaeb of Cissna Park. Simona Ivory was born to Bro. Jason and Sis. Rebekah Stoller of Washington, IL. Grandparents are Bro. Wayne and Sis. Gloria Laubscher. Our sympathy is extended to those who have recently lost a loved one. Jason Rudin passed away. His parents are Greg Rudin and Patti Rudin. Gary Rudin of Cissna Park is his grandpa, and Bro. Ben Rudin (residing at Fairview Haven) is his great-grandpa. Our Sis. Grace Bauer recently passed from this life into eternity. We extend sympathy to her family, including Sis. Beth (Bro. Max) Kaeb of our congregation. She will be missed by all who knew her. Note of Thanks: The family of Sis. Grace Bauer would like to express our thanks for prayers, support, love shown, help given, visits, cards, gifts, flowers, food, and any and all kindnesses given for Mom and our family through the years and in this recent difficult time in our lives. May God bless you. Psalm 23. Bro. Max and Sis Beth Kaeb, Brent and Judy Danforth and families Illinois, Congerville Erica Steffen We are thankful that visiting ministers Bro. Jerry Wagenbach (Sis. Bonnie, Mediapolis, IA) and Bro. Ron Palitto (Sis. Lynell, Akron, OH), shared God’s Holy Word with us this month. It is such a blessing to our church to have visitors take the pulpit with our home brothers. We encourage others to visit if the Lord would allow! The miracle of new life is such a precious gift! Nathaniel Michael was born to Bro. Kurt and Sis. Julie Schrock on February 5. Welcoming him home are big brothers: Josiah, Gabe, Corbin; and big sister, Kylie. Nathaniel’s grandparents are Bro. Ken and Sis. Janet Schock and Bro. Fred and Sis. Maryellen Zimmerman, both of Congerville. “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Hebrews 10:25 These long winter months often have us yearning for the warmth and sunshine of Spring! With sickness abounding in our house this year, I’ve found myself and my children suffering from dreaded cabin fever! Although the little ones would surely be content with even a few precious moments outdoors, I find myself longing for more frequent attendance at church! We were recently reminded in a sermon that going to church is so necessary in our walk as believers. Just as we partake of food throughout the day for nourishment, coming to God’s house and listening to His Word is the sustenance we need to make it through each week. Skipping meals leaves us empty and weak, as does missing out on our opportunities to commune with God and our brethren at church each week. May we all have a strong desire to be strengthened in church surrounded, by those who share our beliefs. Although there are seasons (both literally and figuratively) where this does not happen, may it bring us joy and strength when we can gather around the table of God’s Word and feast on the Bread of Life together until the Lord returns! Illinois, Elgin Amy Gasser We thank Bro. Chris Wuethrich (Sis. Carla, Chicago, IL) and our Elder Bro. Brad Eisenmann for ministering to us this month. Also, special thanks to Elder Bro. Tom Hoffman (Roanoke, IL) who conducted an all-church topical presentation on Wednesday, January 27 on “Pride, Humility and Insecurity.” Scott and Darline Krueger welcomed their second son, James David, on January 20. His paternal grandmother is Mary Krueger (the late Jim). Our annual business meeting was held on January 20. Bro. Roger Weiss was selected as church secretary, and Bro. Mark Gasser as church trustee. They will replace Bro. Jerry Cargill and Bro. Eric Weiss. Bro. Keith Leman and Bro. Chad Heiniger were chosen to serve on the Highland Oaks March 2016 SILVER LINING 21 Board of Directors. They will replace Bro. Les Schambach and Bro. Matt Kinsinger. We extend sympathy to Sis. Mollie (Bro. BJ) Schambach in the passing of her grandfather, retired Elder Bro. Ray Sinn (Latty, OH) on January 29. Illinois, Eureka Debra Blunier, Linda Rocke We are taught so many wonderful spiritual lessons through our sermons. If only we could retain more of what we hear. One lesson that was brought out was God’s will for us to be active in His work. Philippians 13 states, “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” We thank the Lord for providing those who preach the Word. This month our visiting minister was Bro. Randy Mogler (Sis. Evie, Washington, IL). Those who have had hospitalizations or surgeries this past month include Sis. Charlene Schumacher (Bro. Bob) and Sis. Katy Wood (Doug and Lori, Eureka). May God grant them health and strength again. Our church has remodeled the former AC Publications building. It is now the “Walnut Creek Family Center.” It has been used frequently since it opened. We enjoyed having our February Family Hymn Sing there. Illinois, Fairbury Angela Herr, Janelle Stoller Our prayers have been with little Kenton Zehr (Bro. Blake 22 SILVER LINING March 2016 and Sis. Kristin), Sis. Marguerite Lorch, Sis. Norma Fehr (Bro. Wayne), Sis. Karen Steffen (Bro. Albert), and Dave Steidinger who spent time in the hospital. Sis. Esther Koehl took her final breath on January 20 after a long battle with cancer. We extend our sympathy to her husband, Dick; her daughter, Vicky Stewart (Douglas, East Peoria, IL); son, Kevin (Marlene, St. Johns, FL); and brother, Willis Maurer (Rita). Dave Schmidgall (Forrest, IL), brother-in-law to Bro. Merle Kaisner, passed away on January 27. Sis. Pat Hartman’s brother-inlaw, Wayne Hartman, passed away on January 30. May God comfort those who are grieving loss of loved ones. It was a joy to witness the marriage vows of our Bro. Timothy Hartman (Bro. Mark and Sis. Judy) and Sis. Jenna Kaeb (late Bro. Eldon and late Sis. Stephanie, Forrest, IL) on January 24. We pray God will richly bless their union and that Sis. Jenna will feel a warm welcome in our Fairbury church family. When we observe the front benches at church filled with young brothers, sisters, and converts, it brings much joy to our hearts. We continue to pray for each one of our converts, including Troy Fehr (Bro. Randall and Sis. Janis). “Anywhere with Jesus, over land and sea, Telling souls in darkness of salvation free; Ready as He summons me to go or stay, Anywhere with Jesus when He points the way.” Anywhere with Jesus, Hymns of Zion #179 verse 4 Our prayers are with Bro. Karl, Sis. Carrie, Addison, Maddox, and Ian Steidinger as they relocate to Florida. Though miles separate us, we pray each of us can be faithful and shine forth the love of Jesus where God has placed us. Illinois, Forrest Carissa Knapp, Shannon Brown “Seeds of goodness we are sowing in the hearts of man today. Bless it, Lord, that it may prosper, and bear fruit for harvest day.” Hymns of Zion #46 We are thankful for the safe return of the many in our congregation who have traveled to foreign lands and places in our own country to help those in need. We pray God will bless them and those they have served. January 24 was the wedding day of Bro. Timothy Hartman (Bro. Mark and Sis. Judy, Fairbury) and Sis. Jenna Kaeb (late Bro. Eldon and late Sis. Stephanie). We wish them God’s richest blessings as they begin their life as one. We were blessed that day with many visitors, including ministering Bros. James Fehr (Sis. Brenda, Tremont, IL), Darren Fehr (Sis. Nora, West Bend, IA), Brian Waibel (Sis. Wendy, Champaign, IL), Matt Steffen (Sis. Deanna, Princeville, IL), and Paul Kilgus (Sis. Carmen), and John Hartman (Sis. Rosemary), both of Fairbury. Also ministering to us this month were Bros. Virgil Metzger (Sis. Mary, Chicago, IL), Scott Schambach (Sis. Hope, Elgin, IL), and Ed Fritz (Sis. Barb, Washington, IL). May God bless each one for their willingness to come and serve us. We are rejoicing with the angels as Chloe Mueller (Bro. Ron and Sis. Vicki Mueller) has begun her repentance. We also rejoice and welcome Henry Friedman (Sis. Marjorie) as our brother in Christ. He was able to give his testimony and was baptized on January 27. Our sympathies are extended to the family of David Schmidgall as he passed from this life on January 27. His children are Sam (Sherrie), Forrest; Bro. Dan (Sis. Mary), Champaign, IL; James (Lisa), Fairbury; Bro. John (Sis. Janet), Forrest; Mary (Andre) Ross, Urbana, IL; and one daughter-inlaw, Janet Schmidgall, Morris, MN. May God be the great Comforter to them as well as to his grandchildren and all who loved him. Janelle Slagel (Bro. Kevin and Sis. Jodi) spent some time in the hospital, but is home again. Also, Bro. Eldon Waibel (Sis. Marge) is home from the hospital, recuperating from shoulder surgery. We are thankful they are both doing well. Illinois, Goodfield Kayla Wiegand, Melissa Rokey We rejoice with Tate Taufer (Bro. Ted and Sis. Kenda), Miriam Dingledine (Rick and Deanne), and Brock Wiegand (Bro. Greg and Sis. Jenny) as they have turned their lives over to the Lord in repentance. May they feel God’s nearness and grace! Surely there is joy in heaven today! Bro. Roy Roth fell and fractured his hip and is recovering. Sis. Marj Bauman (Bro. Don) had a heart attack and is recovering. Sis. Heidi Schumacher (Bro. Dan) spent some time in Kansas getting on-going treatment for Lyme’s disease. Please keep them in your prayers. Our dear Chad Gerber passed away February 1. We send prayers of comfort to his parents, Bro. Roger and Sis. Trish Gerber, as well as his siblings: Sis. Stacie (Bro. Rick) Bauman, Sis. Ali (Bro. Jason) Knepp, Brock (Jodi), Blake (Kristen), and Sis. Cassie (Bro. Alex) Knepp. Marvin (Muck) Knapp passed away recently on February 6. Marvin was the father of our dear Jodi Knapp. Please keep Jodi, Gavin and Ava in your prayers during this difficult time. Ed Kennedy’s mother passed away recently. We wish to express our love and support to him at this time. Many of us appreciated the service the young group babysitters offered conveniently, on Valentine’s Weekend. Thank you! A group travelled to Zambia, Africa, where they spent time with Bro. Erik and Sis. Carrie Wiegand. We are thankful they had safe travels. We want to continue to lift up the Wiegand’s, Sis. Erin Davis, and Bro. Kurt and Sis. Joan Plattner’s families as they continue serving God in overseas mission fields. Bro. Mark Schmidgall (Sis. Sally, Mediapolis, IA) presented a Wednesday evening Bible study to us. His topic was “Living in the world, but not of the world”. We appreciated his time and talent. Bro. Lynn Fiechter (Sis. Rhonda, Bluffton, IN) also ministered to us from the pulpit, on the weekend that Sis. Becky Gerber and Sis Rhonda Fiechter and their families blessed us thru song at our Family Hymn Sing. Note of Thanks: Thank you for all the prayers, as the recent scan has shown “cancer free”. Maintenance treatments will continue every 3 weeks with scans every 3 months at least thru 2016. We have and continue to feel the love and prayers of our dear church family, that we appreciate so much!! Bro. Herman and Sis. Sara Glueck Illinois, Gridley Perry Klopfenstein We are sorry to report the death of Bro. John Funk, 49, who died on February 19, in Gridley. He suffered from cancer. He was the youngest child of the nine children of deceased Bro. Roy and Sis. Bertha Funk. He is survived by two brothers, Randy Funk, Eureka, and Jerry Funk, Bloomington; four sisters, Rhonda Baurer, Lithia Springs, FL; Sis. Charlene Wagenbach, Burlington, IA; and Lori Funk and Karen Funk, Bloomington. Bro. John had a very nice and kindly disposition and will be missed in our assembly. John Louis and Leslie Slagel are the parents of their third child, Amandrea, born on December 18. The baby’s siblings are Branson, March 2016 SILVER LINING 23 4, and Colton, 1. Grandparents are Dennis and Lorene Slagel, Fairbury, and Leonard and Cheryl Schurter, Silverton, OR. Bro. Bob Greiner is now a resident at Fairview Haven. Bro. Elmer Witzig is back at home and is recovering from falling and breaking his wrist. Bro. Mark Funk had surgery on his knee, and is recovering. Sis. Ruth Rinkenberger also had surgery and is back at home. Bro. Bob Hock is recovering from health issues, but is able to attend church. We offer our sympathies to Sis. Marge Kuntz over the death of her sister, Alice Barnes, Pontiac. We appreciated the visit of Bro. Ron Bollier, Indianapolis, who preached here in mid-February. We also thank Bro. Jeremiah Psinas for giving our Family Worship topic “The Helmet of Salvation” as another part of The Armor of God series. Our church has been encouraged in this series as we are given teachings in being transformed into the image of Jesus Christ. Thankful grandparents to a new baby girl, Gloria Grace, are Bro. Bruce and Sis. Becky Sauder. Baby Gloria was blessed to parents Jeremy and Tammy Hodel, along with siblings Joelle and Maggie. With joy Bro. Gary and Sis. Debbie Rassi welcomed a new grandson, Daniel James. The parents, Bro. Trent and Sis. Heather Barth, along with siblings: Caleb and Silas, welcomed baby boy, Daniel. Bro. Jim and Sis. Julie Illinois, Morton Barth, Washington are the paternal Annette Tanner, Julie Bahr grandparents. God has a divine plan to restore Sis. Eunice Wuthrich His world-the death, shedding peacefully went to meet her Savior of blood, and resurrection of His on January 26. Our love and One and Only Son! Needy and sympathy goes to her children: repentant sinners who acknowledge Bro. Mark (Sis. Cheryl), Carol the need for a Savior are the only (Don) Schmidgall, Sis. Pam (Bro. ones who can experience the true Mike) Heinold, Donna (Ron) glory which God plans for His Massner, and Mary Bertchi. own. As Christian believers, we are also the only ones to whom, God’s Illinois, Peoria Holy Spirit reveals the mystery Pam Fritzenmeier of God’s purposes! Once again, We are so thankful that four this Easter should remind us to converts have been announced surrender our all to Jesus so we for baptism. They are Norvin might experience the “Very Mind Schneider (brother of Bro. of Christ”! What a glorious way it Norbin and Sis. Mary Jane), would be to live out the year 2016! Heather Kieser (Bro. Randy and We appreciate Bro. Wes Moser Sis. Brenda), Brock Streitmatter (Sis. Esther, Lester) for visiting us (Bro. Ron and Sis. Lori), and and giving the Gospel message. Ben Hofstetter (Bro. Ralph 24 SILVER LINING March 2016 and Sis. Karen). It is such an encouragement to see the Lord’s work in each one. Sis. Cassie Feucht (Bro. Tim and Sis. Robyn) has moved to Red Rock, TX to serve with HarvestCall for three months. God bless her for her willing heart. Bro. David (Sis. Rita) Sauder passed away January 26. He was the father of Bro. David Sauder (Sis. Rachel) and Sis. Serena (Bro. Johnny) Hoerr from our church family. On January 28, Mary See passed away. Our sympathy and prayers are extended to the families. Sunday, February 7, Elder Bro. Ted Witzig, Sr. (Sis. Cindy, Morton) served us in the reading of the memorandum. After a hospital stay, Sis. Lois Ehnle is now residing at Skyline Home. Remember her in your prayers along with her husband Bro. Willis and their children. May they feel God’s nearness. “Yeah though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me.” Psalms 23:4 Note of Thanks: To our precious church family, Another one of our treasures is in heaven. We cannot tell you how much your love, prayers, cards and donations of food (to lighten the load) and generous donations to the Apostolic Christian Home mean to our family. His loss is unbearable, his home here is so empty. We know he is with the Lord in his heavenly home. For that we are eternally thankful. God bless you all for your out pouring of love and care! The Harry Eisenmann family Illinois, Princeville Gloria White, Renee Herrmann We were blessed this month by the preaching of Bro. Brian Waibel (Sis. Wendy, Champaign, IL) and Bro. Brad Gudeman (Sis. Teresa, Bradford, IL). May God bless them for their willingness to bring God’s Word to us. Sis. Lynelle Berchtold (Bro. David and Sis. Leann) and Bro. Lucas Herrmann, Bradford, IL (Bro. Marvin and Sis. Lavonne) announced their engagement. We rejoice with them and wish them God’s rich blessings in their lives together. Our hospital patients this month were Sis. Keri Blunier (Bro. Darin), Benola Bowdoin (Henry), Sis. Janet Martin Joos and Sis. Wilma Martin. We pray for God to bring complete healing to them. We are thankful that God in His mercy continues to call souls to Him. Those beginning their walk with Christ this month are Lacey Givens (Bro. Erik and Sis. Deb), Karl Christ (Bro. Kurt and Sis. Connie), Claire Berchtold (Bro. David and Sis. Leann), Lydia Sauder (Bro. Paul and Sis. Marie) and Tasha Martin (Bro. Craig and Sis. Terri). It is a joy to know that there are those who continue to choose to serve Jesus. We pray that they will receive the grace to continue to seek the Kingdom of God in their lives. I was recently reminded of the fact that Joshua wrote out the Law of Moses on stones for the Israelites after they entered the Promised Land. (Joshua 8:32) I also heard of a man who had read a chapter every day in the book of Proverbs for twelve years and the blessing it was to him. We are blessed beyond measure to have God’s written revelation, the Bible, at our fingertips. Oh that we would not neglect this treasure and fail to receive the instruction and promises that God intends for us. Illinois, Roanoke Barb Schwind, Judy Sauder St. Matthew 25:40: “…Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Our church gathered for a HarvestCall Family work night on January 27 at our Fellowship Hall. We met for supper and then assembled kits to be sent to Haiti. We also heard inspiring accounts of various individuals who had served on work teams at various HarvestCall ministry projects. It was a blessed and worthwhile evening. We thank all those who organized and participated in the evening to make it so productive. 1 Cor. 15: 54: “…Death is swallowed up in victory.” Audchild Dominique of Haiti passed away on January 21. He was a brother to Mike Steevens Dominique who worships with us. Chad Gerber (Goodfield) went to be with the Lord on February 1. He was a brother of Sis. Ali (Bro. Jason) Knepp. Robert (Bob) Rebbec (Phoenix) passed away on January 31. He was a brother-in-law to Sis. Dorothy Sauder. Then, Sis. Grace Bauer (Cissna Park) went to her eternal reward on February 6. She was a sister of Bro. Russ Plattner and a sister-in-law to Sis. Marie Hohulin. Finally, Herb Blunier of Roanoke died on February 13. He was a brother to Bro. Wally (Sis. Faye) Blunier. We extend our love and deepest sympathy to these dear families and pray for our Lord’s comfort upon them. Titus 2: 11: “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men.” We welcome Nick Sizemore, who has begun his walk with the Lord, to our congregation. We are so thankful for the Lord’s work in Nick and pray for God’s continued blessing upon him. We rejoice with Jon & Jessi Schwind and Laura Bradle (Bro. John & Sis. Jill) who have also begun their walks with the Lord. We pray for our Lord’s continued nearness, peace and blessing upon them as they take this most important step in life. Bro. Mike Hohulin (Sis. Faye, Ft. Lauderdale, FL) and Bro. David Prevo (Sis. Tara, Bloomington, IL) were our guest ministers on February 3. We thank them for their faithful service to us. Bro. Byron & Sis. Jenean Gerber welcomed Trey Broderick into their family on February 1. Trey’s older brother is Mason. His thankful grandparents are Bro. Tom & Sis. Connie Schambach (Elgin) and Bro. Rick Gerber. Bro. Dennis & Sis. Eva Rocke March 2016 SILVER LINING 25 became grandparents again with the birth of Madison Eliana who was born to Brent & Staci Rocke of Temple, TX on February 4. We are so thankful for the arrival of these precious children and ask that God would bless these dear families as they raise their children in the ways of the Lord. Sis. Margaret Beer celebrated her 105th birthday on February 6. We are so thankful for Sis. Margaret’s Christian example over the years. On February 14, our church met at the fellowship hall for our annual church potluck and family sing. It was a blessed evening of fellowship and worship. We pray for Bro. Dennis (Sis. Rita) Schwind and Archer Leman (Bro. Caleb & Sis. Erin) who are dealing with health issues. May our Lord grant them health and strength. How thankful we are that God feels that way about us, and that we can love and appreciate one another. John 15:12 “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” We appreciated Bro. Ed Fritz (Sis. Barb, Washington, IL) and Elder Bro. Jeff Grimm (Sis. Ruth, Goodfield, IL) coming to assist in the ministry. We once again wish to thank the Belvidere congregation for hosting our choir, it was a blessed day for all. Our thoughts and prayers for healing have included Bro. Ron Wagenbach (Sis. Liz), Sis. Lucy Wagenbach (Bro. Marvin and Sis. Paula), Bro. Jonathan Wagenbach (Sis. Rebekah), and Sis. Dorothy Meister (Bro. Mike). We extend our sympathy to Bro. Dick Miller (Cindy) at the passing of his brother, Ronald Note of Thanks: Miller (Clinton, IL) and to Sis. I thank all the people of the Joann Sauder (Bro. Dale) in Apostolic Christian Churches and the loss of her brother, David all others for their prayers and gifts Schmidgall (Forrest, IL). and all those who have helped in any way for my daughter and son- Illinois, Washington in-law, Ed & Judy Laskowski. All Kendra Funk, Patricia Knapp is greatly appreciated. We are thankful to have Sis. Carol Schwab had Bro. Wayne Banwart (Sis. Bro. Matt & Sis. Jennifer Charlen, Champaign, IL) share the Mangold & family Memorandum with us this month. Nathan & Jenna Mangold Also sharing this month was Bro. Joshua Mangold Wes Moser (Sis. Esther, Lester, IA). We appreciate these willing servants! Illinois, Tremont Our prayers are with Bro. Debbie Aberle, Janice Sauder Daniel Hofstetter as he was Webster’s dictionary describes hospitalized this month. His love as strong attraction, warm parents are Bro. Keven and Sis. attachment, devotion, unselfish Anne Hofstetter. We prayer that loyalty, and benevolent concern. he will feel our prayers and have a 26 SILVER LINING March 2016 quick recovery! Bro. Robert and Sis. Lily Pfaffmann joyfully welcome another grandson, Colin Stanley, born to Bro. Caleb and Sis. Heidi Pfaffmann (Morris, MN). Indiana, Bluffton Suzie Fiechter, Kim Meyer Greetings of love to you all in the name of our Lord and Savior! I cannot believe how time passes so quickly from month to month! Where does it go? No matter what the date, we always find ourselves blessed with opportunities to serve, encourage, and praise. Here in Bluffton, we embrace the family of Bro. Truman Yergler (Sis. Marcella) who went home to Jesus. Sis. Sue Neuenschwander (Bro. Tom), Kim & Sue Yergler, and Bro. Jeff Yergler (Sis. Peg) along with the grandchildren and great-grandchildren will miss the loving, yet solid, example he was to them all. We also extend our love and sympathy to the family of Sis. Marguerite Stoller of Latty. Sis. Marguerite grew up in Bluffton and leaves Sis. Shirley Fiechter, Sis. Luella Schladenhauffen, Sis. Nancy Honegger and Bro. Charles Gerber here in Bluffton. We are rejoicing with Bro. Kent and Sis. Mary Gilliom as their son, Koby, began his repentance. Bro. Brad and Sis. Lynn Fiechter are also rejoicing in the engagement of their son, Bro. Josh Fiechter, to Sis. Jackie Wilson (Jack and Carol) of Smithville, OH. These are two wonderful examples of God’s faithfulness and love. In the past month we have had two topical presentations, one geared toward the ladies and one geared toward the men. Both were a blessing to all who attended and took part in the events. Opportunities like these encourage us not only to draw closer to Jesus, but also draw closer to one another. When we can gather together and be real with each other, it is a recipe for growth all around that God loves to bless. As we pray for those with health concerns, we think of Bro. Doug Dailey (Sis. Susan) and baby Decklin Gerber (Bro. Kyle and Sis. Deone). Our prayers also go out to those involved in the HarvestCall work teams at Bastrop County, TX. Some are involved a week, 3 weeks, 1 month or the whole time. But whatever the time commitment, it’s all about making God bigger in TX. We pray for the community as they are helped by HarvestCall. It is such an opportunity to show God’s love to those in need, and yet walk away with your cup overflowing. A special thanks goes out to the Austin church as they open their hearts in hospitality to all the guests they will have during this time. It truly is an honor to serve. Thinking of serving, we want to say thank you to Bro. Steve Frauhiger (Sis. Irene, Bluffton North, IN) for sharing a Sunday with us. This month we will be wrapping up our church-wide Bible Study of David. It has been such a blessing to study the life of David, a man after God’s own heart. He was not perfect, but he was all in. What a comfort to know we don’t have to be qualified to be called, God will qualify the called! David pulled off some amazing stuff because he knew his God and wanted everyone else to know who He was too. What Goliath are you facing today? Will you run toward it like David did in the strength of his Almighty God? God loves to do the impossible. May we make an extra effort this month to take time to get to know God better; to know what He loves, what He hates, what His will is concerning you and then follow hard after Him. “And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13 Indiana, Bluffton North Corinne Stettner, Amy Moser Jesus achieved and then I believed, so now I received my sin debt relieved. Winter finally feels like it has come here in Bluffton. Our High School Sunday School class recently took advantage of the colder temperatures and headed to Bittersweet Ski Resort in Michigan for their annual ski trip. This is always a popular event and a wonderful time for our students to be together. Our 2nd – 12th grade Sunday School students have been hard at work over the past few weeks memorizing verses pertaining to Victory Over Death. They plan to have a program during a morning service in March to bless the church with all that they have learned. What better way is there to fight the enemy than to hide the Word in our hearts? Our Sunday School teachers work diligently at providing opportunities for our young people to be together, forming relationships with their students. They recently shared an evening at Kingdom Academy eating pizza and playing games. The kids always look forward to an exciting evening with their teachers every year! A big thank you to our church body and community for supporting our Senior Class Work Team trip to Reynosa, MX. 2,600 pizzas were sold, all of which had to be assembled on a Saturday morning in February! It was a fun day of seniors and parents working together. May God bless their trip, as they head south in March to share the love of Jesus in the deaf village they will be visiting. Bluffton’s annual Finding Freedom event was held on February 5, at Kingdom Academy. All men were invited to attend this evening of loving encouragement. This year’s speakers were Bro. John Baumgartner and Bro. Lane Gerber. Prayers go out for the family of Bro. Truman Yergler as he passed away on January 30. We rejoice in his victory, but think of his dear wife, Sis. Marcella; and children: Sis. Sue (Bro. Tom) Neuenschwander, Kim (Suzanne) Yergler, and Bro. Jeff (Sis. Peg) Yergler, and their families. We are so thankful that Darrell Murray (Sis. Terry) has accepted the gift of new life March 2016 SILVER LINING 27 through Christ and has repented. As we pray for the Spirit’s presence in Darrell’s life, so we pray for his wife, dear Sis. Terry Murray, who received news that her cancer has spread. Let us commit to lift them up before our Father, that His peace, in the midst of suffering, can be with the Murrays. Indiana, Francesville Jacki Huber, Mildred Clauss JESUS — His shed blood means we can live each day in His forgiveness. His resurrection means we can walk constantly in newness of life. His presence means we can know His victory in each situation. His love means we will never face anything alone. Bro. Brent & Sis. Alisha Wagonbach are blessed with the arrival of their first-born child, Silas Reid. We rejoice with them. Happy grandparents are Bro. Doug & Sis. Lillian Wagenbach of San Diego, CA and Bro. Jan & Sis. Val Gutwein. We recently balloted to fill several positions in our church. They are as follows: Bro. Phil Leman, Assistant Sunday School Superintendent; Bro. Earl Johns & Bro. Ryan Kaeb, Sunday School Teachers; Sisters Deana Cook, Lily Pelsy, Donna Putt, Sunday School Teachers; Missionary Committee, Bro. Ben Metz; and Trustee, Bro. Dave Zeltwanger. Indiana, Indianapolis Nancy Pfeifer, Sandy Lichtle Bro. Eric and Sis. Jodi Strassheim were blessed with a baby 28 SILVER LINING March 2016 girl, Cosette Caroline, on January 30. She is welcomed home by her siblings: Tatton, Landon, Selah, and Keira. Thankful grandparents are Bro. Dale and Sis. Carol Strassheim (Bloomington, IL) and Bro. Wes and Sis. Joyce Hohulin (Goodfield, IL). On February 14, Sis. Brittaney Lintner (Marty and Tabitha Lintner, Rensselaer, IN) and Bro. Randy Lehman (Bro. John and Sis. Tamara Lehman and the late Sis. Ruth Ann, Wolcott, IN) were united in marriage. We rejoice with them and wish them God’s richest blessings as they make their home in Rochester, MN. We are thankful for the visiting ministers that served us this month: Elder Bro. Steve Gutwein (Sis. Linda, Francesville, IN), Bro. Scott Schafer (Sis. Gigi, South Bend, IN), Bro. Bob Beebe (Sis. Sue, South Bend, IN), Elder Bro. Greg Lehman (Sis. Mary Beth, Wolcott, IN), Elder Bro. Ted Steffen (Sis. Sandra, Alto, MI), Bro. Jeff Bahler (Sis. Heidi, Wolcott, IN) and Bro. John Lehman (Sis. Tamara, Wolcott). Indiana, Lacrosse Meagan Frank, Julie Rocke “But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children;” Psalm 103:17 I have overheard several people lately sharing what a joy it is to be a grandparent. Speaking from the perspective of a parent, it is a great blessing to have loving grandparents for my children. Such is the joy of Sis. Ruth Elcock, whose first grandchild was born to Seth and Emily Culver. Isaac Lee is warmly welcomed by Sis. Ruth and her family, as well as many other family members and friends. A small group of brothers spent a week in Bastrop County, TX on the HarvestCall winter ministry this month. We are thankful for their safe travels and also thankful for the fellowship and labors that they shared while there. Several in our congregation have received health diagnoses that require surgery and in some cases, further treatment. Our prayers are with Sis. Evie Heinold (Bro. Gene) and Sis. Shirley Frank. May God grant His healing mercies to each of them. Indiana, Leo Kirby Reutter “They shall run like mighty men; they shall climb the wall like men of war; and they shall march every one on his ways, and they shall not break their ranks.” Joel 2:7 How can it possibly be March already? For both believer and unbeliever alike, time marches on! By its own admission, the world seems to celebrate the march of madness. So this month I had to wonder: What does the march of the believer look like? This was the best conclusion I could reach: Some ups, some downs…and LOTS of encouragement! Example 1: “Dear Leo Church Family, as part of the many threads that have made up the fabric of our lives, and as one of our family’s greatest blessings, we would like to request the pleasure of your company as Bro. Paul Huber and Sis. Talitha Fischer celebrate their union in holy matrimony!” The parents include Bro. Chad and Sis. Pam Huber (Francesville, IN) as well as Bro. Paul and Sis. Leanne Fischer (Leo, IN). The following visiting ministers joined us for this occasion: Bro. Chad Huber (Sis. Pam, Francesville, IN) as well as Bro. James Emch (Sis. Gina, Phoenix, AZ). Example 2: “Thank you all for your love and prayers during Luke’s almost two weeks at Riley. We got home late last evening and are grateful to all be under one roof again. He is recovering amazingly well from his surgery last week, and has already asked me to bring the treadmill upstairs so he can walk to help get his body back into shape. Learning first hand that the hurting children and families that Gateway serves are sometimes our own was a humbling experience. Luke told me on the way home that his body was a little beat up, but his spirit was buoyed by the experience. In Him, Bro. Mark Maibach.” Example 3: “Please welcome Easton Gray Ringger! (Dimensions include 8 pounds, 1 ounce, 20.5 inches). Subsequent updates: Bro. Jon and Sis. Beth Ringger’s baby, Easton, was admitted to the NICU due to some concerns about an infection. It looks like they will be keeping the baby in the NICU for about a week. Please pray for baby Easton’s health! Also, pray for Jon and Beth - Jon will be taking care of Josiah and Jude as Beth spends time in the NICU with Easton. Thanks to all who have offered up encouragement and prayers for Easton and family!” Example 4: “Today will be the last Sunday that Bro. Joe and Sis. Lisa Leman worship with us in Leo. They will be moving to Vancouver, British Columbia for training with Wycliffe Bible Translators. They will be back for a brief visit in September before moving to Asia. Please be prayerful for them as they begin this new endeavor!” Example 5: “I just wanted to say how much I will miss each of you, and Gateway in general. I know I’ll see you at church, the Auction, and other things, but it is still incredibly hard to step away from this family. You all have touched me in more ways than you realize. I will forever cherish the relationships and memories that I made here. You all are doing Kingdom work, and it shows in how you live and impact the people around you, including me. Thanks for five plus wonderful years! Bro. Ross Feller.” Example 6: “Clark Laukhuf is repenting! Please encourage him as a young believer in high school. Clark is the son of Bro. Mick and Sis. Lisa. Other current converts include: Brecken Beyer, Callista Rager, Holly Rager, and Austin Swamgin.” Example 8: A very dear brother from Bluffton recently reminded me that I was multiple moons behind in my reporting, and kindly informed me of the passing of dear Sis. Irene Pulfer at age 94 with the following note. Here is an example of a sister who marched faithfully: “Sis. Irene was born in Bluffton, but moved with her parents to Leo at a young age. She attended Leo all her life. She gave her testimony of faith in our dear Savior Jesus and was baptized in 1940. Although she never married, Irene loved children. She served as a Sunday School teacher for over twenty years, teaching the children about Jesus! She is the sister of Sis. Sarah Reinhard (Bluffton, IN) and the aunt of Bro. Christian Pulver (Bluffton, IN). Irene was a very discreet person and never liked a lot of fuss. At her funeral, Bro. Lynn mentioned: Irene didn’t have any enemies—and if she did, she outlived them!” (On a strictly personal note, I think I have much to learn from Sis. Irene’s marching patterns.) Example 9: And finally, our very dear Sis. Janet Baumgartner (head of adoptions) issued the following marching orders at our recent Gateway staff meeting: Let me be a little braver When temptation bids me waver; Let me strive a little harder To be all that I should be! Let me be a little meeker With the brother who is weaker; Let me think more of my neighbor, And a little less of me! Dear brother and sister in Christ: Let us be encouraged—His truth is marching on! Let us run like mighty men! Let us scale the walls of adversity like men of war! Let us keep March 2016 SILVER LINING 29 marching our way to Zion! And let us never ever break our ranks. Indiana, Milford Minnie Beer, Pat Mikel As I look forward to spring and the renewing of the earth, it makes me think of how we can be renewed through Christ. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature, old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17. Condolences go to Bro. Ray Haab (Sis. Paula) on the loss of his brother-in-law and to Sis. Minnie Beer (Bro. Nelson) on the loss of her brother, Bro. Ray Sinn of Latty. Our condolences go to Bro. Rob and Sis. Kim Schlipf on their loss and we pray for recovering of health for Sis. Kim. Bro. Ryan Schlipf is recovering from a broken collar bone and we are remembering him in our prayers. Bro. Bill Troup (Sis. Ann) had a stroke during surgery and is undergoing many health issues. Bro. Bill is instrumental in the food bank that is operating in Milford and he is really being missed. Our prayers go to him and his family for comfort and healing. We appreciate visiting ministers Bro. John Cottrell (Sis. Gloria, Eureka, IL) and Bro. Bill Wettstein (Sis. Heidi, Eureka, IL) sharing the Word this month. Indiana, Remington Jenni Honegger, Marcella Tyler One Wednesday evening, Bro. Bruce Frank (Sis. Benita, 30 SILVER LINING March 2016 Cissna Park, IL) shared a topical Bible presentation on the book of James. Bro. Todd Stoller (Sis. Pam, Latty, OH) and Bro. Mark Wettstein (Sis. Karen, LaCrosse, IN) both shared the Word on a Sunday. We appreciate each brother’s willingness to preach the truth and encourage us in our Christian walk while they are visiting here in Remington. Essie Nussbaum (husband Marvin, deceased) passed away recently. Essie and Marvin worshiped with us here in Remington for many years. Several years after Marvin passed away Essie, moved to California to live near her son Neal. We remember Essie fondly and ask that you remember both of her sons, Neal and Kent, as well as their families in your prayers. Indiana, South Bend Joshua Martinez “Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17 We pray for Bro. Caleb, Sis. Laura Schafer and their children as they travel to Texas and elsewhere in the South and West. With supplication in the Spirit, we think of those who are not able to worship with us for health reasons, Sis. Sharon Flis, Sis. Leona Lehman and Sis. Ernestine Meister. “Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.” 2 Corinthians 13:11 Indiana, Valparaiso Sherry Meiss 1 John 4:7 “Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” We would like to thank Bro. Jeffrey Fischer (Fort Scott, KA) and his son, Noah, for being with us in worship and sharing their time. God’s grace is all we need, for when we are weak, then we are strong. Many visitors were with us this month and what a surprise for us and Bro. Tim Bucher. His wife Sis. Julie Bucher planned a surprise 60th birthday gathering for him. All his children, their wives and their children, cousins and friends were in attendance. Yes, he was surprised. I was told all he could say was, What? Here is a challenge that was presented to our Bible study: Open your heart to God’s love and positive thoughts. Whenever something negative presents itself, stop it right in its track. Don’t allow it to be planted and grow. For there is something good in all things, plant that seed and watch God’s love grow. Here is a praise report. Sis. Leona Bucher has been back in church and is mending well. Sis. Dawn Ailes has a heart back in rhyme; continue to pray it stays that way. We all love one another and hurt when one of us hurt. Please continue to pray for each other. If you ever are in our area, you are welcome to come and worship with us. We are just south of US 30 on Hwy 49. Indiana, West Lafayette Kris Widmer, Libby Wahl As a young church in a college town, it seems we find ourselves welcoming and loving, and too soon, bidding farewell. Such is the case for our dear friends Jordan and Shaye Pfister who have moved back to the Leo area. Also our dear Laura and Bro. Mike Holliger have moved to be with her daughter in Rochester, IN. They are greatly missed. We extend a warm welcome to Bro. Aaron Adrian who has recently moved here for employment. Bro. Aaron is from Taylor, MO. We appreciate and have received much encouragement from the ministers who have labored on our behalf for our midweek services this past month. Thank you Bro. Joe Sprunger (Sis. Tara, Indianapolis, IN) and Bro. Joshua Martinez (Sis. Keyna, South Bend, IN). Indiana, Wolcott Beckie Lehman, Erica Blume New life and new beginnings was our theme for the month… We are very thankful and rejoice that the Spirit of the Lord has been moving in the hearts of Danny Lehman (Elder Bro. Greg and Sis. Mary Beth) and Caleb Furrer (Bro. Bruce and Sis. Pam). Both have confessed their need for a Savior and are seeking Christ in repentance. Just as we plead for grace in their journeys, we plead for grace to continue our own walk faithfully. Michael and Sis. Melissa Blanding became first-time loving grandparents to Haedyn Jane Garcia. Kylie and Paul are her parents. Haedyn is blessed to have Bro. Mike and Sis. Glenna Minniear as great-grandparents. Bro. Randy Lehman (Bro. John & Sis. Tamara, the late Sis. Ruth Ann) and Sis. Brittaney Lintner were married in Indianapolis on Valentines’ Day, Sunday, February 14. The holiday will certainly carry special meaning in their lives as they celebrate God’s love for them and their love for each other. Due to many in our congregation attending the wedding, Bro. Dan Stoller (Sis. Deb, Remington, IN) assisted with breaking the Bread of Life from our local pulpit. We are so thankful that the Spirit can be in all places and minister to all needs! Iowa, Bloomfield Teresa Schock We thank our visiting ministers for supporting us, Bros. Kevin Fehr (Sis. Lonnie, West Bend, IA) and Seth Hartter (Sis. Brenda, Burlington, IA). May God bless you both. Sis. Kendra Meyer (Bro. Tad) has graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Agricultural Studies. They make their home in Ames. First-time parents, Jacob and Rachel (Teubel) Peterson, were blessed with a bundle of joy! Dean Michael was born February 17. Happy grandparents are Bro. Paul and Sis. Charlotte Teubel. One week later, Bro. Dale and Sis. Teresa Schock rejoiced with the birth of their first grandson, Kobe Alan! His parents are Bro. Kyle and Sis. Jenny Banwart of West Bend, IA. Kobe has two sisters, Josie and Jayla. As I recently came down with shingles, and had sharp pains in my head, I thought of Christ and His crown of thorns. “He bore it all (freely bore it all) that I might live (with Him might live). I stood condemned to die, but Jesus took my place. He bore it all that I might live.” Iowa, Burlington Ivy Steiner We were thankful to have our Elder Bro. Jon Schmidgall (Oakville-Mediapolis) here with us on January 17. Bro. Matthew and Sis. Stephanie Schulz welcomed their first child, Levi Matthew, born January 25. Maternal grandparents, Bro. Chuck and Sis. Lois Massner (Oakville-Mediapolis), are enjoying their first grandchild. Paternal grandparents, Bro. Gary and Sis. Melody Schulz, are happy to add another grandchild to their extended family. Iowa, Elgin Maria Rocke This time of year it seems one gets weary of the cold temperatures and snow. We begin to search for signs of spring and the warmth it brings. Life’s ambience, as it were, can also get wearisome when the cold world beats down on us. May it cause us to seek out March 2016 SILVER LINING 31 God’s promises, through the living hope, of a warmer and brighter tomorrow; if not in this life, then in the one to come. A little grandson was welcomed into Bro. John & Sis. Janet Schupbach’s family. Trevor Ray was born January 2 to Bro. Andy and Sis. Abby Knoblock (Lester, IA) and welcomed by brothers, Tanner and Tyler. Bro. Charles and Sis. Sue Schneider also were blessed with the birth of a grandson. Calvin Wallace Squiers was born February 10 and joins his siblings: Malachi, Audra and Kyra. Visiting this month was Bro. Harvey Kaeb (Sis. Judy, Gridley, IL) and Bro. Mark Roth (Sis. Tammy, Congerville, IL). We were blessed through their labors of love. Iowa, Garden Grove Laura Funk Sharing God’s Word with us was Bro. Nathan Wiegand (Goodfield, IL) and Bro. Jerry Meeks (Sabetha, KS). We have enjoyed several visitors this past month and look forward to more fellowship! We held our annual business meeting. We are thankful for those who have fulfilled their term in various duties and look forward to those who will fill those positions. We pray for God’s guiding hand as the brothers and sisters begin their terms. He Died for Me “I saw One hanging on a tree, In agony and blood; He fixed His languid eyes on me, As near His cross I stood. Sure, never, till my latest breath, 32 SILVER LINING March 2016 Can I forget that look: It seemed to charge me with His death, Tho’ not a word He spoke. My conscience felt and owned the guilt, And plunged me in despair; I saw my sins His blood had spilt And helped to nail Him there. Alas! I know not what I did, But now my tears are vain; Where shall my trembling soul be hid? For I the Lord have slain. A second look He gave, which said, “I freely all forgive: This blood is for thy ransom paid, I die that thou may’st live.” Oh, can it be upon a tree The Saviour died for Me? My soul is thrilled, My heart is filled, To think He died for me!” Gospel Hymns #837 Iowa, Lester Audrey Metzger, Joyce Moser “Come follow Me, the Saviour spake, all in my way abiding! Deny yourselves, the world forsake; Obey my call and guiding! O bear my cross whate’er betide; Take my example for your guide!” Zion’s Harp #57. Our congregation was strengthened and encouraged the weekend of January 23 and 24 when we heard the testimony and witnessed the baptism of Michael Leuthold (Ashley). We welcome him into the fold as our brother in Christ and rejoice with him and his family. May the Lord bless our Elder Bro. Wayne Grimm (Sis. Rose, West Bend, IA) for his labors as he ministered unto us that weekend. We rejoice with our converts, Heather Moser (Bro. Brad and Sis. Gloria) and Karin Moser (Stuart) as they have expressed to the church they are at peace with God and man. May they continue to rely on God’s grace as they walk this Heavenly way. Our hospital patients this month were Bro. Tony Bosch (Sis. Pam) and baby Trevor Knoblock (Bro. Andy and Sis. Abby). Both have returned home and are recovering well. Our congratulations go out to Lucy Larson (Tedd and Sis. Diane) as she became engaged to Mike Just. We wish them God’s blessings on their upcoming marriage. We are thankful for several visiting ministers this past month. They were Bro. Justin Isch (Sis. Liz, Lamont-Gridley, KS), Bro. Fred Funk (Sis. Diane, Morton, IL), and Bro. Mark Schmidgall (Sis. Sally, Oakville-Mediapolis, IA). May the Lord bless each one as they lean on the Holy Spirit of God to bring forth the Word in truth and power. We extend our congratulations to three couples as they were married this past month. Sadie Knobloch (Bro. Dan and Sis. Jeanne) and Trent Loger were united in marriage on February 13. Deann Popkes (Bro. Greg and Sis. Lori) and Jed Matthiesen were married on February 19. Bro. Tyler Metzger (grandson of Bro. Art and Sis. Kris) and Sis. LaChelle Moser (Bro. Brad and Sis. Gloria) were united in marriage on February 21. We wish all of these couples God’s blessing and nearness as they begin their lives together. May they always look to the Lord for His perfect counsel and wisdom. Two families have been blessed with precious baby boys. Jordan and Masondra Metzger, Koen, Liam, Imena, and Haislee welcomed little Geir Rodney into their lives on February 18. Happy grandparents are Bro. Art and Sis. Kris Metzger. Little Jaxon Vernon was born on February 21 to Bro. Tristan and Sis. Chalsea Kuenzi and big brother Kaiden. His grandmother, Sis. Chalea Knobloch (late Bro. Vern), is also very happy and thankful for another little grandson to love. Note: Bro. Wes Moser’s new email address is wesmoser58@ gmail.com. He is one of the contact persons for the Montana Church weekend on June 25-26. The annual church services at Clyde Park, Montana will be held the weekend of June 25-26, 2016. Please contact Bro. Gene Metzger at 712-472-2187 or Bro. Wes Moser 712-478-4622 with any questions, or email: wesmoser58@ gmail.com, or gdmetzger@ hickorytech.net. Iowa, Oakville-Mediapolis Kelsey Banwart, Tami Lanz Visiting ministers this month were Elder Bro. Randy Kellenberger (Sis. Karen, Kansas City, MO), Bro. Matt Kaufmann (Sis. Rebekah, Bloomington, IL), Bro. Nathan Walder (Sis. Denise, Cissna Park, IL), Bro. Michael Wagenbach (Sis. Erica, Wolcott, IN), and Bro. Phil Schulz (Sis. Kelli, Burlington, IA). We appreciate their willingness to serve. On January 27, Bro. Jacob and Sis. Katherine Montgomery welcomed another boy into their family. Daniel Lee joins big brother Joseph at home. Grandparents are Bro. Tom and Sis. Vera Lindeen. On January 31, Bro. Matt Kaufmann (Sis. Rebekah, Bloomington, IL) and Bro. Arlan Miller (Sis. Katie, Gridley, IL) gave an ACCFS presentation on Financial Stewardship. Many good points were made concerning having a godly attitude about finances. We appreciated these brothers taking the time and effort to do this presentation. We extend our sympathy to Sis. Joan Lanz (Retired Elder Bro. Ed Lanz), and Bro. Al Wiegand (Sis. Martha) at the loss of their sister, Sis. Eunice Wuthrich (Morton, IL). On the weekend of February 6-7, we were thankful to hear the testimonies and witness the baptisms of three souls. We wish Sis. Molly Lanz (Bro. Keith and Sis. Tonya) and siblings, Bro. Nathan Sharp and Sis. Sara Sharp (Gary and Tammy) God’s grace and blessings as they go forward in life. We had our annual business meeting this month and thank those who finished their terms. Elected for new positions were as follows: Church Trustee-Bro. Aaron Schmidgall, Fellowship Center Trustee-Bro. Kevin Frank, Cemetery CommitteeBro. Jaydon Wagenbach, UsherBro. Michael Roth, Kitchen Committee-Sis. Nola Gerst and Sis. JoAnn Steiner, HarvestCall Sewing-Sis. Barb Wagenbach. Iowa, West Bend Becky Virkler, Jenny Banwart Rejoicing in the safe arrival of baby Kobe Alan are his parents, Bro. Kyle and Sis. Jenny Banwart. Kobe has two happy sisters, Josie and Jayla. Thankful grandparents are Bro. Dale and Sis. Teresa Schock (Bloomfield, IA) and Bro. Kent and Sis. Beth Banwart. Amber Schmidt (Bro. Frank and Sis. Dawn) and Logan Streit have announced their engagement, as well as Tory Metzger (Bro. Leland and Sis. Kathy) and Jadeyn Pender. May God bless these couples as they make future plans. Bro. Ervin Banwart and Connie Zaugg (Bro. Bill) have spent time in the hospital. We are thankful God has been present with His healing power. Elder Bro. Rod Bajema (Sis. Sue, Lester, IA) encouraged us to “Try the Spirits.” We appreciate his willingness to preach God’s Word as well as assist Bro. Wayne Grimm in reading the Memorandum and giving an exhortation for Holy Communion. God’s Spirit of direction and encouragement was felt among us. We ask God to bless each one who has helped those in need. Many have assisted in many ways, whether locally, elsewhere in the USA, or abroad. Sis. Patty Banwart and Moira Kellenberger will be missed in our congregation as they are on an extended mission March 2016 SILVER LINING 33 in Haiti. May God guide and bless their endeavors. We rejoice with three dear souls who were added to our flock. Bro. Ashton Fehr (Bro. Darren and Sis. Nora), Sis. Kayla Banwart (Bro. Kent and Sis. Beth), and Sis. Dana Schmidt (Bro. Wendell and Sis. Karen) all vowed before God to serve Him faithfully all the days of their lives. We thank Elder Bros. Tom Stock (Sis. Karol, Cissna Park, IL) and Paul Messner (Sis. Jan, Winthrop, MN) for assisting in this weekend. Ministering Bros. Nathan Walder (Sis. Denise, Cissna Park, IL), Dan Moser (Sis. Ann, Elgin, IL) and Dallas Massner (Sis. Christy, Burlington, IA) were also present. We appreciate their labors. Our sympathies go to the family of Sis. Hulda Wirtz as she’s gone onto her reward. Her children include: Mary (Ted Besch) of Storm Lake, IA; Esther (Lester Frieden) of West Bend; John (Ella) of Ft. Dodge, IA; Eli (Marilyn) of Urbandale, IA; Alvin (Wendy) of Wylie, TX; Lori (Frank Jones) of Gold Canyon, AZ; Luanne (Chuck Collins) of Plano, TX; Irene (Alan Blair) of Humboldt, IA; and Fred Wirtz, Jr. (friend Lila Smith) of West Bend. Hulda was 103 years old. We appreciated her example over the years. Japan, Tokyo Anna Inoue, Marie Inoue We are thankful that so far our winter weather has not been severe, and we are able to get around and not miss any Sundays. 34 SILVER LINING March 2016 A visitor this month has been Bro. Matt Koch who is a student this year at Konan University in Kobe, about a 6-hour bullet train ride from Tokyo. He is mainly studying the Japanese language and living with a family there. I noticed in church he was sitting with an older brother and already using his Japanese language skills to communicate. May God bless his efforts as he uses his talents to glorify God. Bro. Matt is the son of Bro. Roger and Sis. Sally (Beutel) Koch of Tremont. Sis. Sally was a former teacher at the Shioda Kindergarten. Another visitor we are now enjoying is Sis. Marcelle Gress (Bro. Ron) of Indianapolis. She is visiting relatives here (the Inoue’s) and could attend our monthly ladies’ meeting at church. Our thoughts and prayers ascend for Sis. Lois Ehnle (Bro. Willis) of Peoria. She is very ill at present and has impacted many of our lives here and in the U.S. We pray for their family and other dear ones who are caring for her that the Lord will provide for each of them. Kansas, Bern Tiffany Menold, Jill Meyer Our hearts rejoice with two souls who have sought the Lord and were baptized in early February. We wish Kristin Rokey (Bro. Todd and Sis. Sheila) and Ryan Strahm (Bro. Brad and Sis. Michelle) God’s guidance as they continue to grow in Christ. Elder Bro. Trent Meiss (Sis. Lucy, Eureka, IL) was here to help with the weekend. Bro. Darren Fehr (Sis. Nora, West Bend, IA) was also here to minister the Word. We thank these brothers for giving of themselves to God’s ministry. Our hearts were stirred with the reminders that we should not harden our hearts and that TRUE belief results in ACTION. Our hearts grieve with Bro. Trever Wendler as his father, Timothy Wendler, passed away several weeks ago. We also grieve with Sis. Harriet Strahm (Bro. Adrian) as her mother, Eszter Orcsik, went to be with the Lord. May the great Comforter touch all the hearts that are saddened by a loss! Another ray of sunshine has joined Bro. Jason and Sis. Maggie Kaeb’s home. Tracen Jase (born February 5) is lovingly welcomed by his parents and two big brothers, Kyson and Kendon. Thankful grandparents are Bro. David and Sis. Sheri Eisenbise, and Paul and Joan Kaeb. One Sunday evening in February, our church family enjoyed a potluck and singing at the Fellowship Center. So often our lives get busy, and we don’t take time to gather with our church family. The beautiful singing made me think of verse #6 of the song “Praise Ye the Lord” (Zion’s Harp #1). “And now the Spirit of the Lord Strikes in our hearts the sweetest chord, Makes music all-enchanting; We’re happy as we live and love; The Spirit, given from above, To us His grace is granting. Wondrous, glorious, Sweet and cheering to our hearing Is the singing. Brethren, rise; your praise be bringing!” Kansas, Ft. Scott Karen Kellenberger “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures: And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: And that He was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: After that, He was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-6 It has been noted that the resurrection proclamation could not have been maintained in Jerusalem for a single day, or for a single hour, if the emptiness of the tomb had not been established as a fact. This is cause for rejoicing; nevertheless we are blessed to believe through faith alone the glorious account of our Redeemer’s resurrection. Recently, Bro. Brian Metzger (Sis. Angie, Lester, IA) shared the Word with us. We were grateful for the fellowship of this couple and two other families that traveled with them. Our annual business meeting was held and we thank all those who serve, and have served, in various offices. Kansas, Kiowa Millicent Frieden, Janice Bahr We were blessed to have visiting ministers feed us from God’s Holy Word this month. Our grateful thanks to Bro. Matthew Steffen (Sis. Deanna, Princeville, IL) and Bro. Jay Luthi (Sis. Jane, Lamont-Gridley, KS). We recently conducted our annual business meeting. We want to thank and encourage those who serve on various committees or fill church positions. You keep our church functioning in godly order! And speaking of important positions: As I stood watching my children play, I clearly heard the Savior say, “What have you taught them of Me today?” May the Lord richly bless and encourage God-fearing mothers everywhere. Kansas, Lamont-Gridley Dorene Metzger Easter is such a glorious, yet solemn event each year. When I remember the pain and agony my own sins cost me and the heaviness and grief which lay upon my heart, I know that there is no way that those feelings compare to what Christ suffered for my sin? And then to know that He bore the sins of all mankind; that Christ felt deserted of the Father, Who couldn’t look upon His Beloved Son as He bore the sins of all mankind. The words of the following song resonate in me as I remember my struggle to find peace with commitment and the loving tears that Christ surely had as He watched my struggles. May this song give each reader the “courage to commit (or reevaluate our commitment) to Jesus”. The Secret Place “My heart is like a house; one day I let the Savior in. There are many rooms where we would visit now and then. But then one day He saw that door, I knew the day had come too soon. I said, Jesus, I’m not ready for us to visit in that room. There’s a place in my heart where even I wouldn’t go. I have some things hidden there I don’t want no one to know. But He handed me the key with tears of love on His face. He said I want to make you free. Let me go in your secret place. So I opened up the door and the two of us walked in. I was so ashamed I’ d revealed my hidden sin. But when I think about that room, no, I’m not afraid anymore. For I know my hidden sin no longer hides behind that door. There was a place in my heart where even I wouldn’t go. I had some things hidden there I didn’t want no one to know. But He handed me the key with tears of love on His face. He made me free. I let Him in my secret place. Is there a place in your heart where even you don’t go? You have some things hidden there, you don’t want no one to know. Well, He’s handing you the key with tears of love on His face. He wants to make you free. Let Him go in your secret place.” –Michael Booth Surgical patients have been Barb Quandt (friend of Dale March 2016 SILVER LINING 35 Kraft), Doris Blevins (mother of Kathy (Jim) Kraft) and Bro. Max Burnham. Visiting brethren who occupied the pulpit with our own ministers this month were Bro. Cory Metzger (Sis. Jodi, Wichita, KS) and Elder Bro. Brad Eisenmann (Sis. Cindy, Chicago). Bro. Victor and Sis. Hope Edelman hosted a Valentine’s Dinner for the young couples in our congregation. What a lovely way to encourage a three-fold cord in our marriages and a godly commitment to each other. Kansas, Sabetha Crystal Hartter, Brenda Nenadov On January 19, we held our annual business meeting. We certainly want to thank those who labor in various capacities to keep the church running smoothly. May we continue to pray for each one. Bro. Velmer Meyer passed away on January 20. We extend our sympathy and prayers to his children: Delwin (Rita) Meyer, Elaine (John) Garber, Daryl Meyer, Elizabeth McGuire and Brent Meyer, and their families. Our sympathy is extended to Bro. Roger (Sis. LaVonne) Aberle as his brother-in-law, Byron Martin (Sis. Katie, Gridley, IL) recently died. We were also saddened to hear of the passing of Jason Rudin of Oneida, KS. He is the son of Greg and Patti Rudin, formerly of Sabetha. May God grant His comfort to each one who would be mourning the loss of a loved one. “In sorrow and pain Thy trust 36 SILVER LINING March 2016 do retain In Jesus the merciful Saviour. When burdened with care, When thou wouldst despair, Then call on thy loving Redeemer.” Zion’s Harp #46, vs 1,2 We were thankful to have Bro. Art Ingold (Sis. Bonnie, Rittman, OH) to assist Bro. Gerry in reading the Memorandum on Saturday, January 23, and bringing forth the Word of Life on Sunday. Kansas, Wichita Max and Judy Reimschisel One of our visiting ministers this month was Bro. John Baumgartner and Sis. Lori from Bern, KS. Brother John read in Luke 11, which includes the Lord’s prayer. He reminded us when to pray, how to pray, and where to pray. This helped us to be encouraged in our prayer life. Do we understand the knowledge of His will in our communion with God. In Colossians 1, Paul reminds us: “For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:” Colossians 1:9-12 Bro. Mike Leman and Sis. Deb from Denver, CO encouraged us to be obedient to God’s word. He warned us to listen carefully to the Word. Let us be thankful we have the opportunity to hear it and also be blessed by it. He read in Amos 8:11-12, “Behold the days are coming,” says the Lord God, That I will send a famine on the land, Not a famine of bread, Nor a thirst for water, But of hearing the words of the LORD. They shall wonder from sea to sea, And from north to east; They shall run to and fro, seeking the word of the Lord, But shall not find it.” This was an admonition to the Israelites and applies to us today. Mexico, Ixtlán Ruth Gerber “ For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.” 1 Cor. 10:17 One of the thoughts that Bro. Marshall Heinold (Sis. Jan, Washington, IL) left with us on their last visit was the importance that all of us individual kernels of wheat need to be “ground” and lose ourselves in Christ, in order to grow together as a brotherhood. Our pride and individualism really do stand in the way of God’s unifying purpose for the church. We thank God for the teaching and for the work He has been doing in all of us. Bro. Justin Koch (Sis. Marcia, Washington, IL) was also with us at the same time and his visit was a blessing in many ways. He clarified the meaning of the “good news” of the Gospel, explaining what it means that Christ took our sins and we received His righteousness (2 Cor. 5:21). We were happy to hear that Martha Solorio is ready and desirous to be baptized. We look forward to her testimony/baptism in a few months. We’re thankful to hear that little Sofia Palominos Hernandez continues to gain strength, though she will be kept in the ICU for several more weeks. She was born on February 4 (2 months preemie) to Felipe and Fabiola (Meli García). The family continues to ask for prayers. Michigan, Alto Renee Steffen, Heidi Kaeb We would like to take this opportunity to thank the dear ministers who came and shared God’s precious Word through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Elder Bro. Greg Lehman (Sis. Mary Beth, Wolcott, IN) was here to help Elder Bro. Ted in the reading of the memorandum and then willingly served us twice on Sunday. Bro. Greg spoke of a quote that really touched my heart. “To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.” -Lewis B. Smedes What a blessed weekend of having our cups filled to overflowing. We were also reminded by Bro. Doug Harmon (Sis. Lanna, Toledo, OH) in the recounting of the story of Esther, that we do not see all that is at work ‘behind the scenes’ in the plan God has set for us. Let us strive to allow God to mold and shape us as He sees fit for His glory and honor. Our prayers continue to lift up Bro. Tom and Sis. Joan Schrenk as he struggles with his health issues. May they realize we love them and make petitions for God’s comforting strength to uphold them. “I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” John 14:18 For many years, we have been privileged to witness how Christ loves the church through the wonderful example of our dear Bro. Lyman Feldman, as he tenderly and faithfully cared for his precious wife in ‘sickness and in health, till death do us part.’ This past week our beloved Sis. Vivian Feldman was released from this world of pain and suffering. Though she has shed her last tears, the prayers of this loving mother and grandmother will continue to reach the Father’s heart. Our prayers are with this family as they mourn the loss of someone so near and dear to their hearts: husband, Bro. Lyman; daughter, Margaret Jackson; sons, Keith Feldman (Cheri), and Kent Feldman (Dawn); grandchildren: Carmen Jackson, Brad Jackson (Laura), and Grant Jackson; great grandchildren, Brooklyn and Trayer Jackson. As I read through last month’s issue for Alto, I realized I hadn’t recognized nor given sympathy to any of the Blough family. For this I apologize. It isn’t that we are unaware of your loss, nor do we withhold our prayers, thoughts and love during your time of loss. Bro. Lloyd Blough, who at 100 years old, finally reached his eternal home in glory. He left behind a large family and a wonderful legacy: his dear wife, Sis. Ella; his children: Sis. Darlene Goodwin, Carolyn (Tom) Barry, Marvin (Liz) Blough, Bro. Jim (Sis. Julie) Blough, Rhonda (Dave) Colter, Gordon (Trisha) Blough; 25 grandchildren; 50 great grandchildren; and 10 greatgreat grandchildren. “One by one they’ll all go home in that fair land of joy, they’ll roam. But as they go, they leave behind, the example of a founding faith to find. For all who wonder about the past, don’t wait till they’re gone before you ask. It is the wisdom of experience they share, if you but desire to be aware. They are the ones God gifts to us, that we might learn the important stuff. But we must take the time to listen, ‘cause soon to heaven, they will hasten.” -ibG.res Michigan, Bay City Sarah Knochel Greetings of Love in our Savior’s Name! “In sorrow and pain Thy trust do retain In Jesus the merciful Saviour. He’s gentle and kind, Rich blessings thou’ lt find; His Word gives thee peace everlasting.” Zion’s Harp # 46, The Best Refuge Our thoughts and prayers are with Brian and Wendy Knochel as they mourn the passing of Wendy’s March 2016 SILVER LINING 37 mother, Carol DeVeau. We pray God’s comforting hand will be with them in the coming days. We also want to remember Bro. Richard and Sis. Yolanda Jackson and their family in the passing of a grandson-in-law, Steve Carpenter (Jazmyn). Several from our congregation spent time in the hospital during the last month. Our prayers are with Sis. Barb Knochel, Sis. Carol Waibel (Bro. Bill) and Bro. Merle Wieland (Sis. Elaine). We trust God’s healing strength will be with each of them as they heal. As the days begin to grow warmer and there is evidence of spring around us, we know that the Easter season will soon be here. May we pause a moment and reflect on the tremendous price that was paid at Calvary so that we may have an abundant life in Christ. “Jesus, keep me near the cross; there a precious fountain, free to all, a healing stream, flows from Calvary’s mountain. Near the cross, a trembling soul, love and mercy found me; there the bright and morning star sheds its beams around me. Near the cross! O Lamb of God, bring its scenes before me; help me walk from day to day with its shadow o’er me. Near the cross I’ll watch and wait, hoping, trusting ever, till I reach the golden strand just beyond the river.” Near the Cross, Hymns of Zion #155 38 SILVER LINING March 2016 Michigan, Detroit Manuela Denes Not too long ago I had a funny thing (funny in hindsight—I didn’t think so at the time!) happen to me. I was shopping for some clothes for my mother and while browsing, the saleswoman started chatting with me. I can’t remember what I said, but her response to me was “well, when you get to be our age…” “Excuse me? Our age? We can’t possibly be the same age!” (I thought to myself .) After I left I realized that we were probably much closer in age than I had originally thought. For some reason I don’t feel as though I’m getting older. Then, out of the blue it hit me. I’ve entered another season of life. It’s no news to anyone that the older you get the faster time seems to go by. It has me thinking of what I’m doing with the time the good Lord has given me and being prayerful and thankful for every moment I have. “Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is: that I may know how frail I am.” Psalm 39:4 We’re thankful that time is a powerful factor in healing and are so happy to have Bro. Hartzell Kaisner (Sis. Mary) and Sis. Tiffany Wieland (Bro. Steve) back with us after having each undergone surgery. We were reminded of the precious nature of time after hearing of the loss of beloved friends and family. Sis. Eszter Orcsik (Bro. John) went to her heavenly home after a brief illness. The Orcsik family worshipped with us in our Livonia congregation for many years. Bro. Mitch Ault (Sis. April) experienced the loss of his dear grandmother, Sis. Jeannette Stoller (Bro. Dale) of Rittman, OH, also after a brief illness. Sis. Bonnie Popp lost a beloved sister in law, Carol Popp. For all, our prayers are for God to give peace in their loss and joy in their precious memories. “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.” James 4:14-15 Minnesota, Minneapolis Brenda Messner, Betty Lindwall We are so thankful for our visiting ministers this month. Bro. Dan Koch (Sis. Julie, Tremont) and Bro. Mitch Fehr (Sis. Abby, Morris) so willingly shared God’s Word with us. Many in our congregation traveled to the mission fields: Bro. Matt Sauer and Ministering Bro. Dewayne Dill went to Haiti. Ministering Bro. Kent and Sis. Mary Mogler went to Jamaica. The Harvest here and there is truly great. We are thankful that God, our Great Physician, not only cares about each one of us in our struggles, but He is also able to provide the strength and healing we need as He wills. Tammy (Cory) Bergstrom has been receiving treatment in Arizona for a rare condition. Sis. Betty Lindwall has had recent surgery and will be undergoing further treatments. Please keep us in your prayers. Minnesota, Morris Minnesota, Morris North Amy Ekren, Heidi Pfaffmann Lois Schmidgall, Wanda Gramm We were blessed to have Elder Bros. Rod Bajema (Sis. Sue, Lester, IA) and Ken Indermule (Sis. Linda, Sardis, OH) with us for the reading of the Memorandum. Also visiting this month were ministering Bros. Doug Moser (Sis. Dawn) and Dale Zeltwanger (Sis. Rachel), both from Morris North, MN. We temporarily bid farewell to Fede Figueroa Martinez, who has been living in our area and worshipping with us for some time. He is currently visiting Cissna Park, IL for a time. We wish him God’s richest blessings and nearness during his stay! Jon & Lori Moser are thrilled to be first-time grandparents of little Weston Ralph (Reed & Jenna Kampmeier). Weston has been hospitalized since birth with health issues. We pray that God will be with his dear family and grant healing as He sees fit. Bro. Caleb & Sis. Heidi Pfaffmann are also rejoicing in the birth of Colin Stanley. Welcoming him home are big brothers, Logan & Brady. Grandparents are Stan & Sis. Pam Wulf and Bro. Robert & Sis. Lily Pfaffmann (Washington, IL). “Jesus loves the little children, All the children of the world; Red & yellow, black and white, They are precious in His sight; Jesus loves the little children of the world.” Gospel Hymns, Jesus Loves the Little Children, #166, vs. 1 “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all they ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 We were blessed to have a marriage topical presentation shared by Bro. Scott Wegman from Taylor, MO. The Bible principles and information on this topic were insightful. We sincerely appreciate the presentation to our church family. We always appreciate the opportunities for spiritual growth. Bro. Scott, and his wife, Sis. Dawn, were also with us the following Sunday. We thank them for visiting and sharing God’s word. Appreciation and thank you to Bro. Jim Koehl (Sis. Hilde, Morris Country, MN) for also visiting and sharing God’s word this past month. Our Elder Bros. Bill Schlatter and Elder Bro. Earl Ringger (Sis. Dixie) visited and assisted in the minister selection process for Morris North. Bro. Damon Knobloch (Sis. Stephanie) has been selected to help serve in the ministry at Morris North. We pray for God’s love and guidance for Bro. Damon, Sis. Stephanie, and their beautiful family of Sawyer, Lily, Maggie, Owen and baby Lincoln. Our congregation is currently doing the Bible Study on Friendship and have organized “Evenings of Fellowship” for the months of February through April. We wish to extend a warm invitation to come and visit us at Morris North. If you are in the area or just wish to come and visit, you will be welcomed with OPEN arms. Minnesota, Winthrop Lindsay Schmidt, Becky Braulick “Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 On February 6, we celebrated the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Bro. Dick and Sis. Mary Lou Schmidt. Congratulations on reaching this milestone. May God continue to bless your marriage and family. Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers go out to Bro. Eldwin Schmidt’s family as he passed away early morning on Sunday February 14. We pray for his wife, Lois, and their children: Mary, Patty, Kent, Curt, Sue, Mike, Scott and Doug; and his sister, Sis. Bernadine Messner. We pray that God will bring healing and a quick recovery to two brothers in our church. Bro. Dick Schmidt (Sis. Mary Lou) had a surgical procedure on his foot. Elder Bro. Paul Messner (Sis. Jan) had a surgery on his finger. Our thoughts and prayers are also with March 2016 SILVER LINING 39 Bro. Kenneth Messner (Margaret). Kenneth’s cancer has returned. We pray that he will feel God’s comfort and presence. “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.” 1 Cor. 13:13 Missouri, Kansas City Julie Webel We are thankful to Bro. Tom Stock (Sis. Karol, Cissna Park, IL) for being with us for Memorandum and for ministering to us on Sunday. We held our annual business meeting in January and would ask for prayers for all those who are in newly-elected positions. Thank you to all who participated in our annual health kit packing. We had an encouraging turnout. The fellowship was enjoyed by all who were there. the duties required for each job. Our prayers go to those that have started a new job that they can be a blessing in the new position(s). We were excited to learn that Bro. Mark and Sis. Karen Wettstein (LaCrosse, IN) have felt of the Lord to relocate to our congregation. We feel our prayers have been answered as they prepare to make this endeavor. Missouri, St. Louis Kary Mangers Valentine’s Day being on Sunday this year helped our Sunday School class focus on God’s love and how He shows us His love. His Word is filled with verses of His all-encompassing love. As we discussed how to show God’s love to others, it struck me how perfect a verse Ephesians 4:32 is. “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one Missouri, Lamar another, even as God for Christ’s Venetta Banwart sake hath forgiven you.” May we all Our visiting ministers this go out every day in the power of month were Elder Bro. Doug the Holy Spirit with this attitude Schock (Sis. Clara, Bloomfield, IA), and show God’s love to others. Elder Bro. Randy Kellenberger (Sis. Thank you Bro. Matthew Karen, Kansas City, MO), Bro. Rassi (Sis. Bridget, Chicago, IL) Kevin Wulf (Sis. Annie, Morris, for your visit and sharing God’s MN), Bro. Jim Butikofer (Sis. love from the pulpit and in Diana, Iowa City, IA), Bro. Bruce fellowship with us. Frank (Sis. Bonita, Cissna Park, IL), Bro. Matthew and Sis. Alicia Bro. Tom Lanz (Sis, Mary, Oakville- Schrenk felt His love in a blessing Mediapolis, IA). May God blessed of a baby as they welcomed these brothers as they brought forth Weston Drake to their family. the word of God in its truth. Siblings: Elijah, Jesse, and Paige We had our business meeting will have the opportunity to shine and would like to thank those God’s love by exercising Eph. that have completed their terms 4:32 with their little brother as and for their willingness to fulfill he grows. Grandparents are Bro. 40 SILVER LINING March 2016 Loren and Sis. Betsy Schrenk (St. Louis, MO) and Bro. Craig and Sis. Jean Steffen (Bluffton, IN). Missouri, Taylor Kathy Eberhardt On January 24, Elder Bro. Paul Messner (Sis. Jan, Winthrop, MN) spent the weekend in Taylor and helped our Elder Bro. Kent Heimer read the memorandum. On Sunday, Bro. Paul shared an experience about how small things can make a difference in our lives. He asked us, “Does Jesus care about us?” The answer is “YES!” Is there any need that God won’t fill, if we pray about it? We were also reminded to pray for godly leaders to lead our country. On the weekend of February 13-14, Sis. Shayna Young shared her testimony and was baptized. Shayna is the daughter of Bro. Tom & Sis. Jolene Young. Sharing the pulpit that weekend were Shayna’s grandpa, Bro. Tom Schambach (Sis. Connie, Elgin, IL), and uncle, Bro. Scott Schambach (Sis. Hope, Elgin, IL). Sad news was shared to our congregation. Dave Uppinghouse, husband of Sis. Barb, died in a car accident on Sunday morning, February 14, 2016. May Sis. Barb feel the prayers of those who love her. Our thoughts and prayers also go to their son, Jon, and the other family members. The same day, our sorrow was mixed with joy as we heard of the birth of a son to Bro. Josh & Sis. Colby Steffen. Lawson Wayne was born on February 14. He will be welcomed home by Lathyn, Lydia, and Lincoln. We rejoice in this miracle from heaven. Grandparents are Bro. Rich E. & Sis. Kay Sutter (Taylor) and Bro. Dean & Sis. Carol Steffen (Belvidere, IL). Jr. Smith, foster child of Sis. Shelly Hoerr, had surgery on his foot. May God be the great healer. Thank you to all the foster and adoption parents for the love and opportunity you give to children in need of love and care. Thank you to Bro. Andrew Gerber and Bro. Reed Yackley (Gridley, IL) for presenting an informational program about Lifesong to our congregation on Sunday evening, January 17. New York, Croghan/ Naumburg Hope Graves We were thankful to have brethren from Rockville, CT serve our lunch two weekends in a row, February 14 & 21. On Saturday evening, February 20, we enjoyed sharing a potluck dinner and singing together with the Rockville single group who served us on Sunday. What a blessing and help this is to our small congregation. We were blessed to get together and sew for HarvestCall on February 15 & 17. Several quilts were tied and school, health kits and back packs assembled to be filled at a later date. Our prayers extend out to the family of Lois Cardinal who passed away on February 16. May they feel God’s comfort in the days ahead. We pray for those who have been recently hospitalized. They are Sis. Rachel Snyder, Meaghan Bowers and Joyce Rowsam. Ohio, Akron Carla Miller Bro. Glen and Sis. Joan Greenbank welcomed a granddaughter, Skye Emily, born February 7 to Bro. Samuel and Sis. Laura Greenbank (Rockville). We are grateful for the engagement of Bro. Michael Schlatter (Elder Bro. Bill and Sis. Emily, Junction, OH) and Sis. Heidi Ramsier (Bro. Tim and Sis. Joni, Rittman, OH). Our thoughts and prayers are with Sis. Martha Palitto and Bro. Sandor Bako (Sis. Kathy) as they have recently spent time in the hospital. Ohio, Columbus Nancy Banks Sending love and greetings from the Columbus church! Our annual business meeting was held in January. Those elected or appointed to new positions include: Bro. Corbin Schlatter (Sunday School Superintendent), Bro. Todd Saurer (Sunday School Teacher), Bro. Scott Germann (Trustee), Sis. Becca Steiner (Kitchen Committee), Bro. Luke Gerst and Bro. Larry Banks (Substitue Teachers) and Sis. Nancy Banks (Silver Lining). We are thankful for each one who currently holds an office and also for those whose term has expired. May God bless each one for their efforts. We appreciate the ministers who have traveled a distance to serve us this month: Bro. Dan Pfister (Sis. Sherry, Bluffton North, IN), Bro. Mark Ramsier (Sis. Alice, Sardis, OH) and Bro. Bill Brake (Sis. Miriam, Sardis, OH). We thank them for their willingness to serve on the pulpit. Ohio, Junction Elizabeth Manz “Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established: and by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches” Proverbs 24:2-3 This month has brought new additions into two of our families. Bro. Dave and Sis. Kathy Manz are glad to welcome another grandson, Charlie David, born to Bro. Chet and Sis. Jenny Manz of Toledo, OH. Bro. Roger and Lisa Manz are thankful for a grandson Keatyn Emmanuel, son of Henry and Christa Manz. As we consider changes and growth in our individual families, it’s a reminder for us to assess the way in which we are building our houses. Wisdom and understanding are granted to those whose eyes and hearts are searching for it. May God give us clear vision and desire to establish our house on the rock that will stand firm. We enjoyed a wonderful weekend of fellowship as we held our all church invite-a-guest on February 20-21. We appreciated everyone who could join us! March 2016 SILVER LINING 41 Ohio, Latty Carmen Stoller, Mindy Stoller Greetings of love to each of you! Our thoughts and sympathies are with retired Elder Bro. Ray Sinn’s family as he has reached his eternal reward. May the Holy Spirit provide comfort to his wife, Sis. Ann, and children: Sis. Susie Beery (Bro. Earl, Rittman, OH), Bro. Gary (Sis. Paulette), Philip, Sis. Jane Linder (Jim), Bro. Mark (Sis. Diane), Bro. Steve (Sis. Joy), Bro. Duane (Carrie), Sis. Karen, and Bro. Kurt (Sis. Lisa). We also want to remember to pray for Sis. Ann as she had surgery. We pray that God will provide strength to this dear family during this time. We want to remember Sis. Viola Schlatter in prayer as she has spent some time in the hospital. We are thankful for our visiting ministers this month including Bro. Dana Nieman (Sis. Lea, Remington, IN), Bro. Wayne Hartzler (Sis. Camille, Rittman, OH), Bro. Justin Koch (Sis. Marcia, Washington, IL), and Bro. Steve Stieglitz (Sis. Jane, Leo, IN). We also wish to thank Elder Bro. Steve Ringger (Sis. Myra, Bluffton North) for assisting in the reading of the Memorandum. How blessed we are to be a part of this precious brotherhood! Ohio, Mansfield Elizabeth Walter The January wedding of Bro. Justin Miller (Bro. Roger and Sis. Dorina) and Sis. Katie Palitto (Bro. Bryon and Sis. Lisa, Akron, OH) was a blessing for all who were 42 SILVER LINING March 2016 able to attend. We are thankful to welcome Sis. Katie to our congregation, and look forward to having her assemble with us. We are grateful to the visiting ministers who served us this month. May God bless Bro. Don Steidl (Sis. Nan, Akron, OH), Bro. Ron Palitto (Sis. Lynell, Akron, OH), and Bro. John Grimm (Sis. Julie, Columbus, OH) for their efforts on our behalf. Our hearts go out to our loved ones who have recently suffered from illness or surgery. We pray for healing in the lives of Bro. Ken Sauder (Sis. Sue), Shirley Roberts, and Thomas Tucker (Bro. Archie and Sis. Amber). Ohio, Rittman Julie Steiner, Maria Beery “Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.” Romans 12:15 We rejoice with Sis. Heidi Ramsier (Bro. Tim and Sis. Joni) and Sis. Leah Beery (Bro. Walt and Sis. Lynda) as they made known their engagements. Sis. Heidi is engaged to Bro. Michael Schlatter from Akron (Bro. Bill and Sis. Emily, Junction). Sis. Leah is engaged to Bro. Tyler Endress (Bradford). We wish them God’s blessings as they plan for this new chapter in their lives. We were saddened to hear of the passing of Sis. Velma Rufener [Bro. Elton (Jeff)] and Sis. Jeannette Stoller (Bro. Dale). Sis. Velma will be missed by her children: Dave (LeAnn) Rufener, Sis. Elaine (Bro. Ed) Marty, Sis. Debra Rufener, Sis. Deanna (Bro. Vern) Lanz; her 3 sisters: Sis. Clara Jenkins, Sis. Ruth Beery, Sis. Anna (Bro. Orin) Rufener; and her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Sis. Jeannette will be missed by her children: Bro. Gregory (Sis. Joy), Sis. Kathy (Bro. David) Ault, Bro. Gary (Sis. Michelle) Stoller, Bro. Tony (Sis. Cherie) Stoller; her 3 sisters: Sis. Joann (Bro. Robert) Widmer, Sis. Delores (Marion) Bauman, Sandra (Dennis Franks); a sister-in-law, Lynette Imhoff; a brother-in-law, Vernon Riggenbach; and her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Our sympathy goes to Sis. Susie Beery (Bro. Earl) in the passing of her father, Bro. Ray Sinn (Sis. Ann, Latty). We want to keep these families in our prayers. We are so thankful for the hope of heaven that we have! We are excited to have many new babies to report this month. Caleb and Rachel Middleton welcome Oliver Reid. Oliver joins older brothers, Gregory and Wyatt. Grandparents are Greg and Sis. Peggy Tieche and Randy and Jackie Middleton. Bro. Eric and Sis. Ruth Maibach are thankful for the safe arrival of Adler Eric. Adler joins Hudson, Tucker, and Eleanor. Grandparents are Bro. Alpha and Sis. Denise Maibach and Greg and Sis. Peggy Tieche. Bro. Doug and Sis. Dianna Bauman became grandparents again with the birth of Hannah Marie. Hannah joins her brother, Eli, and her parents, Josh and Ashley Burns. Bro. Chet and Sis. Jenny Manz (Toledo) welcome Charlie David. He will be loved by his grandparents, Sis. Diana Raifsnider and Bro. Dave and Sis. Kathy Manz (Junction), as well as, older siblings, Kylie and Jack. Dan and Sis. Anita Pope have a new grandson, Joshua Quixote. Joshua joins his parents, Jeremy and Danelle Vanni, and older siblings: Elliot, George, David, and Rosemary. Bro. Bob and Sis. Mardel Dotterer added to their family with the arrival of grandson, Easton Gray. Easton joins his parents, Bro. Jon and Sis. Bethany Ringger (Leo); older brothers, Josiah and Jude; and grandparents Bro. Steve and Sis. Myra Ringger (Bluffton North). Congratulations and God’s blessings to these families! “Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” Luke 15:10. It brought us much joy to hear that Jeremy Schar (Bro. Nathan and Sis. Linda) began his repentance. We wish him God’s grace and pray that many more could turn their hearts to the Lord. Our prayers are with those who have spent time in the hospital. We pray that God will continue to be with Bro. Dale Pelfrey (Sis. Beth), Beth (Beery) Nelson, Sis. Betty Keiper (Bro. Reinhart), Sis. Kathryn Bachman (Bro. Eugene), Sis. Dianna Bauman (Bro. Doug), Sis. Kendra Ramsier (Bro. Joe), and Sis. Ellen Gasser (Bro. Jerry). We were blessed to have Elder Bro. Mark Masters (Sis. Jeannine, Mansfield) and Bro. Todd Stoller (Sis. Pam, Latty) with us this month and want to thank them for serving us. We certainly have had reason to rejoice and to weep this month and are thankful that God is faithful during all times of our lives! Ohio, Sardis Faith Beard, Joy Indermuhle “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the Lord forever: for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength.” Isaiah 26:3-4 Our convert Kara Dotterer (Bro. Bob and Sis. Laura) has recently felt at peace with God and man and desires to baptized into the family of Christ. We rejoice at God’s work in her life and pray that her mind may always stay on Him. But what does this mean? In a recent sermon, we learned that to “stay on” something means that your mind must be “fixed, focused, and given priority to” such. A few months ago we made our way through what appears to be the most celebrated holiday. Now rapidly approaching is the holiday that overall gets ignored in our culture, at least for its true meaning, yet it has the most significant impact on our eternal souls. “Christ is the world’s dear Paschal Lamb, He is the great ‘I was, I Am’. Through Calv’ry’s pain and dismal gloom, He conquered over death and tomb. He rose His own to justify, and draws all men up to the sky. If you have found the Christ, His way, Then you can keep this Easter day.” Hymns of Zion, #89 Ohio, Smithville Kara Stoller, Millie Stoller “I’m a lamb of Jesus’ flock; untold blessings are my lot; For my Shepherd gives protection; Showers on me His affection; And with peace and gentle love, Calls to me from heav’n above.” Zion’s Harp #17, verse 1 The weekend of January 23-24 was filled with joy as we welcomed five dear souls into the flock of Jesus. Our new sisters and brothers are: Sis. Haley Dotterer and Sis. Erika Dotterer (Bro. Steve & Sis. Amy), Sis. Mary Smith, Bro. Owen Stoller (Bro. Jeff & Sis. Millie), and Bro. Aaron Zollinger (Bro. Marvin & Sis. Pam). Two souls have heard from heaven above and have answered the call of the dear Shepherd. We rejoice with Cole Rudy and Brian Tomic (Bro. Tim & Sis. Melanie) as they begin their repentance. “Safe beneath His staff, I go on my journey, to and fro, Into pastures sweet and verdant, Finding joys and food abundant; And my thirst to quench, He knows where the sweetest fountain flows.” Zion’s Harp #17, verse 2 Under His staff, a new couple will begin their journey together. We were thankful to hear the engagement of Sis. Jackie Wilson (Jack & Carol) and Bro. Josh Fiechter (Bro. Brad & Sis. Lynn) March 2016 SILVER LINING 43 Bluffton, IN. We will miss Bro. Travis and Sis. Anne Wilson as they move to the Milford, IN congregation. We have enjoyed their worshipping with us and hope that they will feel safe and blessed in their new home. Our thirst was quenched by the Living Water through our many visiting ministers. Our heartfelt thanks to: Elder Bro. Bill Schlatter (Sis. Emily, Junction, OH), and Bro. Don Manz (Sis. Connie, Junction, OH), Bro. Matt Manz (Sis. Deanna, Toledo, OH), Bro. Fred Domka (Sis. Connie, Mansfield, OH), Bro. John Grimm (Sis. Julie, Columbus, OH), Bro. Randy Beer (Sis. Deb, Milford, IN), Bro. Bill Wettstein (Sis. Heidi, Eureka, IL), Bro. Todd Graf (Sis. Lydia, Akron, OH), Bro. Wayne Hartzler (Sis. Camille, Rittman, OH), Bro. Marvin Hartzler (Sis. Sue, Rittman, OH), Bro. Brett Lanz (Sis. Renee, Rittman, OH). “Shall I not then happy be? Jesus loves me tenderly. When my earthly days are ending, With the angel host ascending, In my Savior’s arms I’ ll be blest in all eternity!” Zion’s Harp #17, verse 3. Sis. Velma Rufener (Bro. Elton, Rittman, OH) has ended her earthly days. We offer our sympathy to her daughter, Sis. Elaine Marty (Bro. Ed), and Sis. Velma’s brother-in-law, Bro. Joe Rufener (Sis. Lilas). Sis. Kathy Ault (Bro. Dave) also lost her beloved mother, Sis. Jeanette Stoller (Bro. 44 SILVER LINING March 2016 Dale, Rittman, OH). We also remember Sis. Jeanette’s in-laws: Sis. Luella Stoller (Bro. Harold, dec.), Sis. Carolyn Stoller, Sis. Elma Stoller, Bro. Bob Stoller (Sis. Eileen), and Bro. Andy Stoller (Sis. Roberta, dec.). May they be comforted that “In the Savior’s arms they’ll be, blest in all eternity”. Ohio, Toledo Deanna Manz, Whitney Masters Bro. Chet and Sis. Jenny Manz, along with siblings Kylie and Jack, welcomed Charlie David into their home on January 28. Grandparents of Charlie are Bro. Dave and Sis. Kathy Manz (Junction, OH) and Sis. Diane Raifsnider (Rittman, OH). We were blessed to be able to gather together for our Memorandum reading the last weekend in January. Elder Bro. Bill Schlatter (Sis. Emily, Junction, OH) and Elder Bro. John Laukhuf were here to assist in this work. In addition, we had Elder Bro. Dan Kilgus (Sis. Jenna, Remington, IN) visiting on Sunday. We appreciate their willingness to come and share the Word. That same Sunday, we held our annual business meeting. We appreciate all those who have willingly given of their services in the last year. New positions include: Trustee-Bro. Chet Manz; Usher-Bro. Kent Schlatter; Kitchen Coordinator-Sis. Teresa Rywalski; Silver Lining ReporterSis. Whitney Masters; Sunday School Superintendent-Bro. Brad Shields; and Sunday School Teacher-Sis. Lanna Harmon. Ontario, Kitchener Johanna Fortenbacher We are very thankful for the ministers that came this past month. They were Bro. Mark Hoffman (Sis. Louella, Claredon, VT), Bro. Mark Bahr (Sis Bev, Detroit, MI), Bro. Tim Holulin (Sis. Cathy, Roanoke, IL), Bro. Warren Schlatter (Sis. Cindy, Junction, OH), Bro. Steph Baner from Gridley, IL. It always makes us happy to see new faces at church. “This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:12-13. Oregon, Portland Louisa Gallup We thank Elder Bro. John Wiegand (Sis. Jane, Silverton, OR) for conducting the recent business meeting. The following positions were filled: Bro. Rollin Nussbaum agreed to serve as Treasurer (Bro. Art Metz completed his term); Bro. Rick Hoach agreed to serve as Junior Trustee (Bro. Ilijah Gavrilovic completed his term as Head Trustee), and Sis. Lisa Leman agreed to serve on the Dinner Committee for another term. We thank those who have supported our church by serving in the various positions and appreciate the willingness of those newly appointed. Visiting ministers from Silverton, OR were: Bro. Ron Jones (Sis. Liz), Bro. Jim Zollinger (Sis. Tresa), Elder Bro. John Wiegand (Sis. Jane), and Bro. Don (Sis. Linda). We are sincerely grateful for their support and for the weekly song leader help as well. It is a real blessing to us. Oregon, Silverton Kelsey Walder, Ann Kuenzi Bro. Sam and Sis. Tyrene Moser are rejoicing over a new little daughter. Avery Ella was born January 19 and now joins her brothers: Nash, Gage and Shane. Grandparents are Bro. Bob and Sis. Linda Kuenzi and Bro. Ben and Sis. Glenna Moser (Rockville). Our hearts are hurting with Bro. Ed and Sis. Shirley Zollinger in the loss of their great granddaughter, Emma Klumpp. Prayers were said on behalf of the work team from Silverton, as they went to Haiti to help on some projects. They encountered some difficulties coming home, and we are thankful they made it safely. Our sympathy, prayers and heartfelt sorrow are extended to Bro. Dan, Ellie, Nick, Molly and Benjamin in the loss of their dear wife and mother, Sis. Becky Von Flue. She passed away unexpectedly in her sleep on February 6. She has shown and demonstrated a real testimony of faith through the years, as she has struggled with major health problems. She will be missed by all of us. Our prayers for healing have been with Bro. Jesse Te Slaa (Sis. Kari) and Ron Lichty (Ginge) as they have spent some time in the hospital. We are rejoicing that we have two new babes in Christ. Andrea Walter (Bro. Chad and Sis. Megan) and Janelle Kuenzi (Bro. Harvey and Sis. Jennifer) have turned their lives over to the Lord. We’re also thankful that Dakota Koenig desires to be part of our fellowship. We pray that they may grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior. Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Laura Isch “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1. Our church family was saddened this month by the passing of Francis Via. Francis became acquainted with our church a number of years ago and started attending. While he had a lifelong battle with Cystic Fibrosis, Francis was often thankful for what he had, never complaining. This often challenged us to count our many blessings, reminding us that we have an eternal home not on this earth, but in Heaven. Our prayers and sympathy are with his family during this difficult time. Tennessee, Nashville Buck & Taunia Henry “I Love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live.” Psalm 116:1, 2. We were surprised by a couple of snow storms that lost their way and ended up down south in late January! We got about 7 inches, much to the children’s delight, but were snowed in one Sunday and had to call in from our own homes. We are so thankful for the visiting ministers who were able to travel and serve us this month: Bro. Mark Steiner (Sis. Sue, Sardis, OH), Bro. Tim Roecker (Sis. Diane, Peoria, IL), Bro. Jeff Leman (Sis. Val, Bluffton North, IN). We were also blessed with visitors from Detroit, LaCrosse and Remington. We are thankful that Edith Henry, Bro. Buck’s mother, is doing better and regaining a measure of strength after being home-bound a couple of weeks. She would appreciate your prayers. If you are traveling to or through the Nashville area, please plan to worship with us. Often we gather on Saturday evenings for fellowship, and all are heartily welcome. Please contact us to confirm the schedule. Also, we typically meet on Wednesday evenings at 7:15 p.m. for call-in services and would welcome any midweek visitors. Contacts: Bro. Buck Henry 615-920-9584 buck@ forhisglorypublishing.com or Bro. Don Sauder 615-351-7734 don. [email protected]. The Nashville Guesthouse is available for free accommodations to all those traveling through, please contact Bro. Buck for reservations. Texas, Austin Candy Meiss Sending our Love and Greetings from Austin! “Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,just to take Him at His word; Just to rest upon His promise; just to March 2016 SILVER LINING 45 know, Thus saith the Lord. Jesus, Jesus how I trust Him, How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er, Jesus, Jesus, Precious Jesus! O for grace to trust Him more!” It has been so special to have HarvestCall volunteers worship with us on Sunday and Wednesday evenings. We are all thankful for the delicious Sunday lunches they provide! What a wonderful privilege to have the opportunity to fellowship with our brothers and sisters in the Lord who are called to volunteer here in Texas for the winter work teams! We appreciate so much their willingness to go out of their way to encourage and uplift our Austin church and to work so faithfully to help our neighbors who have suffered loss during the floods and fires. We are thankful that the weather has been so beautiful for them as they labor. Recently we have been blessed from the Word by the following visiting ministers: Elder Bro. Duane Rocke (Minneapolis, MN), Bro. Frank Sauder (Roanoke, IL), Bro. Stan Schambach (Prescott, AZ), Bro. Ron Isch (Lamont-Gridley, KS), and Bro. Dave Hartter (Sabetha, KS).We are looking forward to visiting ministers in the following weeks from Morton and Cissna Park. We are thankful for families that are planning to move to Austin this year and ask for your prayers as they look for homes and jobs in the area. We love the children from Stony Point as they continue to come to church and learn about 46 SILVER LINING March 2016 Jesus through songs, stories and crafts. They love the fellowship and food and it’s exciting to have them as part of our church family here in Austin. We are so thankful for our visitors and encourage everyone passing through to stop and worship with us! As I write this month’s Silver Lining article, a song that I love singing with the children comes to mind. It’s called: “Humbly Grateful or Grumbly Hateful? Are you humbly grateful or grumbly hateful? What’s your attitude? Do you grumble and groan or let it be known You’re grateful for all God’s done for you?” Yes, tis sweet to trust in Jesus, Just from sin and self to cease; just from Jesus simply taking Life, and rest, and joy, and peace. I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee, Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend; and I know that Thou art with me, Wilt be with me to the end. Please refer to our minister’s directory for directions and contacts. Texas, Dallas-Ft. Worth Services are generally being held the second Sunday of each month at the Holiday Inn Express, 4450 W. John Carpenter Freeway, Irving, TX. There are several singles and couples who gather and enjoy visitors. Please call ahead to verify. Bros. Wayne Banwart (217-493-2383), Leland Plattner (956-265-0351), or Dennis Rassi (512-321-2345). Texas, McAllen Kristi Plattner We offer many thanks to the ministers that have served us this past month. May God bless Bro. Clint Schmidt (Sis. Magdalena, Winthrop, MN), Bro. Arlen Leman (Sis. Denise, Forrest, IL), Bro. Howard Plattner (Alto, MI), and Bro. Ryan Hoerr (Sis. Joy, Princeville, IL). We are thoroughly enjoying all our winter visitors this month. Our prayers are extended to Bro. Lloyd Massner as he has spent some time in the hospital. We trust that God will continue to take care of him as he recovers. We welcome anyone coming to South Texas. If interested in housing on South Padre Island or in McAllen while visiting the McAllen area, please contact us for further details. Occasionally there is a schedule change, so if you plan to be with us on Sunday, please verify the date by calling the Plattners at 956-607-8329 or you may access www.harvestcall.org and view the updated minister rotation schedule. Sunday services are held at 10:30 and 12:30 at the Smart iStay Hotel, 1921 South 10th St. Please note that the name of the hotel is no longer Holiday Inn Express. Take the 10th Street Exit off I-83 and go 1½ blocks south. Please see the ministers’ directory for local contact information. Texas, Zapata Mary Plattner We are anticipating Bro. Marvin Dotterer (Sis Nancy, Forrest IL) this weekend for the reading of the memorandum and Communion. We look forward to their visits several times each year as he serves as the Elder in Zapata and McAllen. We have been encouraged and feel blessed because of having visitors again this winter season from various churches in the Midwest and Eastern states. If you are planning a trip to South Texas, please call and let us know of your coming. When spring arrives we will frequently travel to McAllen or Austin for services so it is best if you notify us of your coming. Vermont, Clarendon Nathan and Miriam Reutter Will Durant, in The Life of Greece says, “A nation is born stoic, and dies epicurean”. In the beginning it endures pain and hardship without complaint, but as it ages its purpose becomes avoiding them. Does this idea apply spiritually? Do we readily endure difficulties as a new Christian, but try to avoid spiritual problems as we age? Thomas à Kempis, in his book, Of the Imitation of Christ, was certain of this phenomenon. “If every year we would root out one vice, we should sooner become perfect men. But now we oftentimes perceive, on the contrary, that we were better and purer at the beginning of our conversion, than after many years of our profession. Our fervor and profiting should increase daily, but now it is accounted a great matter, if a man can retain but some part of his first zeal.” The Bible encourages us in a different direction. Ephesians 4:14, 15 speaks on this wise: “...That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ…” 2 Peter 1: 5, 6, 10 continues with: “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge; and to knowledge, temperance; and to temperance, patience; and to patience, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, charity. For if these be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ…for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall…” Never fall? This sounds worthy of a lifetime of work: to die growing in grace, not graying. Ministers coming this month to bless us with encouragement to growth were Bro. Dan (Sis. MaryLou) Goric, Bro. Duane (Sis. Kay) Reutter, Bro. Jeff (Sis. Carole) Gerber, and Bro. Brent (Sis. Naomi) Walder. All of these brothers and their wives principally minister to the Rockville, CT church. We have adopted them as ours, too, in a way, as they come so often in support of the ministry here. God bless you! Christ Arose 1. Low in the grave He lay, Jesus, my Savior, Waiting the coming day, Jesus, my Lord! Refrain: Up from the grave He arose, With a mighty triumph o’er His foes, He arose a Victor from the dark domain, And He lives forever, with His saints to reign. He arose! He arose! Hallelujah! Christ arose! 2. Vainly they watch His bed, Jesus, my Savior; Vainly they seal the dead, Jesus, my Lord! 3. Death cannot keep his Prey, Jesus, my Savior; He tore the bars away, Jesus, my Lord! -Robert Lowry March 2016 SILVER LINING 47 The News & Notices section of The Silver Lining provides a way for qualifying non-profit entities to make the brotherhood aware of church-related events, opportunities, needs, and services that would be of special interest to Apostolic Christian Church of America members and regular attendees. Email us at [email protected] for a copy of our advertising policy, which specifies who may advertise, sizes, file formats and deadlines. Congregation Updates News & Notices LISTEN TO SERMONS from over 35 Apostolic Christian congregations (and counting) on your smartphone, tablet or computer on the new sermon system CENTRAL also includes current and past issues of The Silver Lining On your mobile device • Download AC Central app from Google Play or Apple’s App store On your computer • Go to accentral.apostolicchristian.org or visit a specific congregation’s website If your church is considering making its sermons available online through AC Central, visit apostolicchristian.org/sermons to learn more or sign up. Want to support making sermons and the Silver Lining widely available digitally? Donations for AC Central are appreciated and are currently routed through HarvestCall. Write AC Central on your check memo or choose it when making an online donation at harvestcall.org Bible Distribution: Sharing His Word in Love Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. Psalm 96:3 Together we can provide Bibles for seeking people. This may be someone you attend school with, someone you work with, or someone God has shown you at a gas station. Bibles and approved Bible story Books are available. Carrying a New Testament to distribute can help you remember what our real task is. To order, contact: Apostolic Christian Church Bible Distribution 651 E. Peoria Street, Goodfield, IL 61742 Phone: 309-965-2141 Email: [email protected] 48 SILVER LINING March 2016 Alternate Houseparent Couple Needed - Gateway Woods Houseparenting at Gateway Woods offers an opportunity for a couple, directed of the Lord, to come to work in a full-time on going ministry at Gateway Woods. Due to a change in staff, we have a need for an Alternate Houseparent couple. This position offers competitive wages and generous benefits and a close relationship with brothers and sisters whose hearts and lives are dedicated to a common mission with an eternal reward. If you feel the call to explore this possibility, please call one of the brothers listed below. “…there is absolutely a richness in serving as a family. We have been amazed in seeing how God’s Word holds true in any situation.” -Jon & Beth Ringger Clint Plattner Residential Program Manager PO Box 125, Leo, IN 46765 888.443.4283 [email protected] Lynn Stieglitz Counseling Elder 15417 Doty Rd. New Haven, IN 46774 260.466.6712 [email protected] Summer Internships Available – Home for the Handicapped The Home for the Handicapped is once again offering a summer internship program for college age students interested in pursuing a number of various careers. Possible areas of interest include social work, accounting, nursing, activities, maintenance management, and human resources. This would be a tremendous opportunity to learn more about the vision and mission of ACHH, be used in God’s service, and gain unique experience to aid in your future career. The program is flexible, so whether you are interested in investing two weeks, two months, or anything in between, we would love to hear from you. Accommodations and lodging may be available. If you have an interest, please contact: Jeremiah Psinas Human Resource Manager 2125 Veterans Rd. Morton, IL 61550 309-266-9781 [email protected] March 2016 SILVER LINING 49 Summer Volunteer Coordinator Needed - Gateway Woods Gateway Woods is currently searching for a Summer Volunteer Coordinator. The Summer Volunteer Coordinator position offers the opportunity to grow deep relationships with fellow volunteers as well as Gateway Woods Staff and residents. If you feel the call to explore the possibilities, please call one of the brothers listed below: Clint PlattnerLynn Stieglitz Residential Program Manager Counseling Elder PO Box 125, 15417 Doty Rd. Leo, IN 46765New Haven, IN 46774 888.443.4283260.466.6712 [email protected] [email protected] 50 SILVER LINING March 2016 Top Quality Coordinator Needed - Gateway Woods 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: Adam McAfeeLynn Stieglitz Director of Education Counseling Elder PO Box 125, 15417 Doty Rd. Leo, IN 46765New Haven, IN 46774 888.443.4283260.466.6712 [email protected]@gmail.com Renters still needed for St. Louis Home near Church Within the St. Louis congregation, they are still praying that God will lead a family, couple or single(s) to relocate to the area and become part of their church family. A newly renovated, 3-bedroom home, that is located across the parking lot from the church, is available to rent immediately. Expressing Interest Anyone who is interested is encouraged to contact Ministering Bro. Loren Schrenk at 314.994.1944 or [email protected]. Interested parties should have a: 1. servant heart - willingness to serve and support a smaller Apostolic Christian Church, 2. integrity - demonstrate high spiritual standards and be a committed Christ-follower, 3. willingness to support local church efforts (understand the current outreach efforts within the church and work with established brethren), 4. receive support from your local elder. If you e-mail, please include your name, contact information and a brief description of why you are interested (and feel that God is calling you to the area). 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). March 2016 SILVER LINING 51 Support the A.C. Home for the Handicapped An evening where you can sit back and enjoy the Musical Talent of the *Schrenk Sisters* *Heritage Gospel Quartet* *Illinois High School Choir* Saturday, April 30, 2016 @ Five Points, Washington, IL 6:00pm - 8:30pm Can’t Attend? Join us Live Streaming on the Internet @ www.midwestgospelsing.org *Free will offering - No ticket needed* worship / testimony / congregational singing / fellowship 52 SILVER LINING March 2016 Revive and Renew Relationships during TN Fellowship Weekend “And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.” Luke 10:27 The theme for the 2016 Tennessee Fellowship Weekend will be focused on reviving and renewing our relationships -- first and foremost with our Lord Jesus Christ and then with others in our families and communities. Building and maintaining relationships is paramount to living out our Apostolic Christian 4 Pillars Mission Statement which includes presenting the Gospel message to the lost and offering loving, humble deeds of service in the name of Christ. Ministering Bros. Randy Mogler (Washington, IL) and John Reinhard (Bluffton, IN) plan to speak on these topics during the weekend. Weekend Schedule – Saturday, May 28 New this year -- Morning Work Project to assist those in local Tennessee Fellowship Area community with cleanup -- Contact Bro. Bruce Aschliman for more details and to RSVP if you are able to participate. 12 pm – Registration and Fellowship 2 pm – Auction begins (donation of items is greatly appreciated) 6 pm to end of evening -- Enjoy dinner, evening speaker and special groups and congregational singing Sunday, May 29 10 am – Worship with the Athens congregation 3:30 pm to end of evening -- Activities resume at TN Fellowship area with singing, fellowship and speaker. Hotels and Camping Sites Available for Overnight Accommodations In addition to the hotels listed below, consider camping on the Tennessee Fellowship property by the lake. Electric and water hookups are available and some campers may also be available to rent. Please contact Bro. Bruce or Sis. Lisa Aschliman at the info listed below for more information. Join the Athens congregation for an uplifting weekend of fellowship, worship and learning more about renewing our relationships with Jesus and with each other. For questions, please contact any of the coordinators below. Also, please RSVP to any of the following names before Friday, May 6: Bro. Bruce or Sis. Lisa Aschliman - (260)824-5160 or [email protected] Bro. Phil or Cindy Witzig - 309.263.0152 or [email protected] Bro. Mark or Sis. Rebekah Klaus - 256.777.7777 or [email protected] Bro. Daron or Sis. Monica Price - 256.445.2853 or [email protected] Bro. Matthew or Sis. Kristy Moore - [email protected] Sis. Gwen Leuthold - 615.969.0958 or [email protected] Bro. Tom or Sis. Sue Waldbeser - 770.463.4788 or [email protected] Tennessee Fellowship Area Hotels: Motel 6 (931)363-4501 Athens, Alabama Area Hotels Best Western (256)233-4030 Travel Inn (256)232-2704 Fairfield Inn (256)233-4530 Days Inn (800)329-7466 or (256)233-7500 Quality Inn (800)424-6423 or (256)232-0030 Hampton Inn (256)232-2377 Sleep Inn (256)232-4700 Super 8 (256)233-1446 Holiday Inn Express (800)465-4329 or (256)232-7931 March 2016 SILVER LINING 53 Communications Coordinator Needed - Gateway Woods Gateway Woods is seeking a brother or sister desiring to serve as the Communications Coordinator. This position is open to full-time applicants and offers the opportunity to use one’s creativity, organization and communications skills to further the ministry. If you are organized and able to meet deadlines, have strong communication skills, and are a motivated self-starter, please contact one of the brothers listed below for more information and a job description. Chad Kaeb Development Director PO Box 151, Leo, IN 46765 888.443.4283 [email protected] Lynn Stieglitz Counseling Elder 15417 Doty Rd., New Haven, IN 46774 Cell: 260.466.6712 [email protected] Assistant Houseparent Needed - Gateway Woods Gateway Woods currently has an opening for a single sister to work in a full-time ministry with troubled children. The Assistant Houseparent position offers competitive wages and generous benefits and a close relationship with brothers and sisters whose hearts and lives are dedicated to a mission with an eternal reward. If you feel the call to explore the possibilities, please call one of the brothers listed below: Ed GrafLynn Stieglitz Executive DirectorCounseling Elder PO Box 151 15417 Doty Rd. Leo, IN 46765 New Haven, IN 46774 888.443.4283Cell: 260.466.6712 [email protected]@gmail.com 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. 54 Sunday Service: Mid-week Service: (by request only) 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM For information and reservations, contact caretakers: Bro. Mark and Sis. Sandy Stork 4733 Birdie Lane NW, Rochester, MN 55901 (507) 288-0072 (held on 3rd Wednesday in Rochester area) For information, contact: Bro. Jim and Sis. Deb Tilbury (507) 281-2875 SILVER LINING March 2016 For church services schedule please visit www.acmission.org/minister-rotation Skilled Volunteers Needed In April Bastrop County Rebuilding Ministry There is an urgent need for skilled volunteers to complete the rebuilding work currently underway. Five new houses and numerous repair projects need to be completed before the end of April. There are many openings for skilled volunteers in April. Please visit the website - www.harvestcall.org - for more information. Skills Needed • Drywall Finishers • Finish Carpenters • Painters – Interior and Exterior • General Cleaning And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus. Colossians 3:17 God’s Timing Is Perfect Gen. 18:14 - Is anything too hard for the LORD? Ex. 9:5 - And the LORD appointed a set time... Ps. 119:126 - It is time for thee, LORD, to work... Is. 60:22 - I the LORD will hasten it in his time... Hos. 10:12 - for it is time to seek the LORD... Hab. 2:3 - For the vision is yet for an appointed time... Zech. 14:7 - But it shall be one day which shall be known to the LORD … but it shall come to pass March 2016 SILVER LINING 55 [email protected] Work Team Schedules Apostolic Christian work teams are a coordinated response to provide aid, volunteer labor, and gospel witness to alleviate human misery and suffering throughout the world. Work teams have opened the door for participation by many brothers, sisters, and friends of our church and involve helping those in the USA, as well as in foreign lands. Things to consider A work team opportunity is not a vacation and will require hard work. When volunteers go to help others they are ambassadors for Jesus Christ and are also representing the Apostolic Christian Church. It is important that our work team volunteers reflect their love for God and the church by their actions and appearance. In this way we will communicate the gospel message, our faith, doctrine and customs, which have great value. Feb 6 - 13 Magdalena Construction Feb 13 - 20 Location Magdalena Magdalena Construction Construction Year 2015 Nov 21 - 28 Mar 5 - 12 Location Location Magdalena Magdalena Construction Magdalena Construction Construction Year 2015 Nov 21Year - 28 2016 Jan 9 - 16 Mar 19 - 26 Location Magdalena Magdalena Construction Construction Reynosa Construction Year 2016 Jan 9 - Feb 16 6 - 13 Magdalena Magdalena Construction Construction Feb 6 -Feb 13 13 - 20 Magdalena Construction Magdalena Magdalena Construction Construction INFORMATION We encourage anyone considering participating on a work team project to visit the HarvestCall website. Here you can review much content concerning upcoming projects, schedules, guidelines, waiver forms, travel and insurance information. For more information visit www. harvestcall.org/work-teams Mar 19 - 26 Mar 26 - Apr 2 Feb 13Mar - 20 5 - 12 Magdalena Reynosa Construction Construction Reynosa Construction Mar 19June - 26 4 - 11 Reynosa Magdalena Construction Construction Magdalena Construction Mar 19Jun - 2611 - 18 Magdalena Magdalena Construction Construction Magdalena Construction Mar 26 - Apr 2 Jul 2 - 9 Magdalena Magdalena Construction Construction Reynosa Apr 2 - 9 Jul 9 - 16 Construction Mar 19 - 26 Mar 19 - 26 Mar 26 - Apr 2 Apr 2 - 9 June 4 - 11 Reynosa June 4 - 11 Scheduling Questions? Construction Magdalena Construction Magdalena Construction Magdalena Construction Magdalena Construction Magdalena Construction Jun 11 - 18 Jun 11 - 18 Jul 2 - 9 Jul 2 - 9 Jul 9 - 16 Jul 9 - 16 Scheduling Questions? Scheduling Questions? Helping Victims of Flood and Fire Rebuilding Project in Bastrop County, TX. Skilled Volunteer Opportunities Still Available for April! For more information visit www.harvestcall. org/bastrop-work-team-schedules Bastrop Team Photos Stay connected and up to date on the progress at Bastrop, TX. Visit www.harvestcall.org/bastrop-team-photos 56 SILVER LINING March 2016 [email protected] Coordinator Rod Schmidt Gabe Meiss 303-718-1432 ISU [email protected] 309-222-7819 Coordinator [email protected] Coordinator Rod Schmidt Bruce Frank 303-718-1432 Dean Sinn 217-375-4346 [email protected] Silverton Bible Class [email protected] 503-873-4622 Coordinator [email protected] Troy Lanz Bruce Frank 217-202-5959 217-375-4346 Linc Rinkenberger [email protected] [email protected] Bluffton/BN Senior Class [email protected] Troy Lanz Jon Baner 260-273-3566 217-202-5959 309-532-9435 Mexico Work Teams Mar 5 -Apr 12 2 - 9 Construction Updated 10/07/15 Jon Baner 309-532-9435 Mexico Work Teams Magdalena Magdalena Construction Construction Magdalena Magdalena Construction HarvestCall Work Team Updated 10/07/15 Troy Lanz 217-202-5959 [email protected] Magdalena Construction [email protected] [email protected] Greg Moser Roanoke Jr/Sr Sunday School Jon Baner Gabe Meiss 309-923-5791 309-532-9435 ISU [email protected] [email protected] 309-222-7819 [email protected] Joe Beer Gabe Meiss ISU Leo Bible Dean SinnClass 309-222-7819 [email protected] Silverton Bible Class [email protected] 260-466-5461 503-873-4622 [email protected] Dean Sinn Chad Massner SilvertonTaylor Bible Class Bible Class Linc Rinkenberger 503-873-4622 [email protected] Bluffton/BN Senior Class [email protected] 217-440-9427 [email protected] 260-273-3566 Linc Rinkenberger Jeff Stoller Bluffton/BN Senior Class Morton Bible Class Greg Moser [email protected] 309-202-6468 Roanoke Jr/Sr Sunday School 260-273-3566 [email protected] 309-923-5791 [email protected] Greg Moser Jim Rieker Roanoke Jr/Sr Sunday School Peoria Bible Class Joe Beer 309-923-5791 309-231-7400 Leo Bible Class [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Joe Beer260-466-5461 Knapp Leo BibleBenj Class Washington Bible Class [email protected] Chad Massner [email protected] 260-466-5461 Taylor Bible Class 309-208-7450 [email protected] Chad Massner 217-440-9427 Contact Taylor Bible ClassMike Fiechter [email protected] [email protected] Jeff Stoller 260-597-7330 217-440-9427 Morton Bible Class 309-202-6468 Jeff Stoller [email protected] Morton Bible Class 309-202-6468 Jim Rieker [email protected] Peoria Bible Class 309-231-7400 Jim Rieker [email protected] Peoria Bible Class 309-231-7400 Benj Knapp [email protected] Washington Bible Class [email protected] Benj Knapp 309-208-7450 Washington Bible Class [email protected] Contact Mike Fiechter 309-208-7450 [email protected] 260-597-7330 Contact Mike Fiechter [email protected] 260-597-7330 MEBSH/Roanoke 309‐467‐2351 Construction [email protected] Les Cayes Nov 18 ‐ 23 Jon Zeller MEBSH 309‐266‐9009 Les Cayes March 4 ‐ 11 [email protected] Andy Getz Haiti Support Haiti Trade Schools 574-870-5046 Vocational School Dec 4 ‐ 11 [email protected] Les Cayes Lane Gerber MEBSH/Bluffton 260‐241‐4099 Les Cayes March 4 ‐ 11 [email protected] Maurice Schaefer Construction AWA 309‐253‐9003 Water Aid [email protected] Project Year 2016 Coordinator Coordinator Project Year 2015 Haiti Work Teams ‐ Les Cayes Les Cayes Les Cayes Les Cayes MEBSH/Peoria MEBSH/Ohio AWA Construction Construction Water Aid April 1 ‐ 8 Jan 2‐9 Nov 13 ‐ 20 Steve Leuthold Ron Palitto Maurice Schaefer 309‐645‐2208 330‐336‐5373 309‐253‐9003 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Haiti Medical Work Teams Jon Zeller Maurice Schaefer Andy Getz Les Cayes Apr 13 ‐ 18 Les Cayes Jan 8 ‐ 15 Les Cayes Nov 13 ‐ 20 MEBSH Project Year 2016 AWA Haiti Trade Schools Haiti Support Water Aid Bonne Finn, Haiti Jan 9 - 16 Vocational School Coordinator 309‐253‐9003 574-870-5046 [email protected] [email protected] Lydia Bertschi [email protected] Hospital Lumiere 309-253-0402 309‐266‐9009 Les Cayes Les Cayes Inventory Team Les Cayes April 19 ‐ 26 Jan 29‐Feb 5 Nov 13 ‐ 21 MEBSH MEBSH/Silverton SEED Maintenance Construction Agricultural Bonne Finn, Haiti Feb 13 - 20 Jon Zeller Richard Kraft Art Mueller [email protected] 309‐266‐9009 503‐364‐3103 608‐676‐4365 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Lydia Bertschi Hospital Lumiere 309-253-0402 Les Cayes Les Cayes SEED MEBSH Project Agricultural Haiti Support General Medical Feb 12‐19 Larry Kaufmann Nov 18 ‐ 23 Jon Zeller Haiti Medical Work Teams [email protected] Bonne Finn, Haiti Year 2016 Jan Mar 912- 16 - 19 815‐716‐6018 309‐266‐9009 Coordinator [email protected] [email protected] 309-253-0402 Feb 26 ‐ Mar 4Lane Gerber Rich Bertschi Les Cayes Dec 4 ‐ 11 Inventory Team Eye Specialty [email protected] MEBSH/Roanoke 309‐467‐2351 MEBSH/Bluffton 260‐241‐4099 Construction [email protected] Construction [email protected] Feb 13- -16 20 Apr 9 March 4 ‐ 11 Coordinator Andy Getz 309-253-0402 Year 2016 Haiti Trade Schools 574-870-5046 General Medical Dental Team [email protected] Vocational School Jan 2‐9 Les Cayes Les Cayes AWA Eye Specialty Cancer Screening Water Aid Les Cayes Construction Hospital Lumiere AWA Bonne Finn, Haiti Les Cayes Water Aid Hospital Lumiere MEBSH/Peoria Dental Team Inventory Team Construction Les Cayes MEBSH/Silverton Bonne Finn, Haiti Les Cayes Construction Hospital Lumiere MEBSH Haiti Support Cancer Screening General Medical Les Cayes SEED Les Cayes Bonne Finn, Haiti Agricultural MEBSH Hospital Lumiere Maintenance Les Cayes Inventory Well Child Team Visits MEBSH/Roanoke Construction Bonne Finn, Haiti [email protected] Ron Palitto 330‐336‐5373 Lydia Bertschi March 4 ‐ 11 [email protected] Maurice Schaefer 309-253-0402 309‐253‐9003 [email protected] [email protected] Jan 8 ‐ 15 Maurice Schaefer 309‐253‐9003 Apr 9 - -16 Lydia Bertschi Jun 11 18 April 1 ‐ 8 Steve Leuthold [email protected] 309-253-0402 309‐645‐2208 [email protected] [email protected] Jan 29‐Feb 5 Richard Kraft May 14 Jul 97- -16 Apr 13 ‐ 18 Feb 12‐19 503‐364‐3103 Lydia Bertschi Jon Zeller [email protected] 309-253-0402 309‐266‐9009 [email protected] [email protected] Larry Kaufmann 815‐716‐6018 April 19 ‐ 26 Jon Zeller Jun 11 Lydia Bertschi Aug 13 -- 18 20 [email protected] 309‐266‐9009 309-253-0402 [email protected] Feb 26 ‐ Mar 4 Rich Bertschi [email protected] 309‐467‐2351 [email protected] Jul - 16 Lydia Bertschi Sep910 - 17 Les Cayes March 4 ‐ 11 Haiti Trade Schools Vocational School General Medical Cancer Screening Bonne Finn, Haiti Aug - 20 Oct 813 - 15 Hospital Lumiere Les Cayes Well Child Visits Dental Team AWA Water Aid March 4 ‐ 11 Hospital Lumiere Les Cayes April 1 ‐ 8 Sep Nov 10 12 - 17 19 MEBSH/Peoria Cancer Screening Nursing Proficiencies Construction Bonne Finn, Haiti Oct Dec 810- 15 - 17 309-253-0402 Andy Getz [email protected] 574-870-5046 Capacity 8 12 8 12 8 12 ACWR‐CC Capacity 8 1212 8 4 Capacity 12 Nov 12 - 19 Bonne Finn, Haiti Dec 10 - 17 Hospital Lumiere Kingston Jun 18-25 8 4 12 8 12 8 ACWR‐CC 12 12 8 4 309-253-0402 Steve Leuthold 309‐645‐2208 [email protected] [email protected] 12 Lydia Bertschi Lydia Bertschi Jon Zeller 309-253-0402 309‐266‐9009 [email protected] [email protected] Lydia Bertschi ACWR‐CC 12 Capacity 40 815-641-9065 [email protected] Lydia Bertschi 309-253-0402 Rick Plummer 419-399-4226 [email protected] [email protected] pharmacists, laboratory techs, radiology techs, ultrasound techs, occupational and physical therapists, nurses and other specialists who are willing to assist with general medical and surgical care are invited to participate on weeklong medical teams. See the current schedule (including dates for 2016). Construction Teams: Electricians, cabinet makers, plumbers and carpenters are needed to continue the renovations. The work is great. This is an excellent opportunity to help in the work and become more familiar with the culture and Hospital Lumiere campus. See the current schedule. Church Ministers: The work at Hospital Lumiere is more than material and the needs are more than physical. The Hospital staff and the team workers understand the true objective is that all may come to know and glorify God through a born again life, a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and living in obedience to the Bible. Apostolic Christian Church ministers are needed to assist in this role as they accompany medical and construction teams to Hospital Lumiere. Team ministers coordinate daily devotions and provide spiritual support for the team members, hospital staff, patients and their families. For more information contact Rich Bertschi at 309-467-2351 or [email protected] 12 4 April 19 ‐ 26 Jon Zeller Jamaica Work Teams 309-253-0402 Year 2016 Coordinator 309‐266‐9009 [email protected] Jun 10-18 Mark Lindberg [email protected] CCCD Team Inventory ACWR‐CC 44 4 Haiti Volunteers Are Needed Medical Teams: Physicians, surgeons, anesthesiologists, Lydia Bertschi Bonne Finn, Haiti MEBSH Dental Team Inventory Team Haiti Support CCCD 12 4 12 309-253-0402 Maurice Schaefer [email protected] 309‐253‐9003 [email protected] Apr 13 ‐ 18 Les Cayes Project MEBSH Nursing JDV Proficiencies Maintenance Capacity Capacity [email protected] Les Cayes Hospital Lumiere Hospital Lumiere 4 Mar 19 May 12 7 --14 Hospital Lumiere Bonne Finn, Haiti 12 Lydia Bertschi Les Cayes Hospital Lumiere Project MEBSH/Ohio Bonne Finn, Haiti 4 Lydia Bertschi Hospital Lumiere Les Cayes Bonne Finn, Haiti ACWR‐CC Latty Mansfield SS Haiti Awareness Tours If you’d like to see the ministry of Hospital Lumiere and other Haiti projects in person, but do not have the time or desire to participate in a week-long work team, please consider our new Awareness Tours. These are quick trips that give interested parties the opportunity to meet our missionary families, learn more about the hospital, see the completed renovations and work in process, and visit some of the other HarvestCall projects in southern Haiti. These trips are scheduled, as needed, based upon demand, currently the next two are scheduled for September 24-28, 2016. To learn more, contact: Rich Bertschi at 309.467.2351 or [email protected] or Rick Wuethrich at 219.863.4163 or [email protected] If you are interested in sponsoring a work team to Jamaica contact Loren Dettwyler at [email protected] March 2016 SILVER LINING 57 Administrative Assistant Needed – The New Beginnings of Southwest Florida Do you feel like God is calling you into the mission field? Do you have a heart for helping others and a desire to spread the Gospel to those who need it? The New Beginnings is looking for a detailoriented, self-motivated single sister to serve as our Administrative Assistant. This position would be expected to cover office duties, manage intake applications and meet with single mothers to discuss their progress. Competitive wages and benefits are being offered for this position. Please prayerfully consider this mission and helping single mothers. Contact us for more information concerning this opportunity: Bro. Bill Masters at 309-824-3981. Mature Mentors Needed – The New Beginnings of Southwest Florida Mentoring at The New Beginnings is a way for those who feel called to share God’s unconditional love with hurting single mothers and their children. The New Beginnings is looking for mentor couples who are outreach-minded and called by God to come join us in building relationships with these mothers. We currently are looking for a couple who are in their 50’s or 60’s to serve with us in Florida. We see a massive benefit to having mentors of all ages support the moms in our program, especially those who can fill a “Grandma and Grandpa” roll to these women who’ve never had grandparents. Please prayerfully consider this mission and helping single mothers. Contact us for more information concerning this opportunity. The New Beginnings 4810 Marine Dr., Cape Coral FL, 33904 Phone: 239.541.4312 | Email: [email protected] Interested in receiving a printed sermon? To order, contact: Printed Sermons P.O. Box 154, Forrest, IL 61741 (815) 848-5113 • [email protected] 58 SILVER LINING March 2016 Bible Studies offered by the Apostolic Christian Church Jesus the True Vine [1501] This Bible Study focuses on John 15:1-8 and is intended for a general audience. Price: $4.50 Communication in Marriage [1502] This is a Bible Study that is designed specifically for use by engaged or married couples. Price: $4.50 Who Is Jesus [1503] This Bible Study is for general use and is designed to encourage self-study by each participant as well as discussion within a group. Price: $4.50 The Second Greatest Commandment [1504] This Bible study seeks to illuminate our understanding of Bible teachings about interpersonal relationships. Price: $4.50 The Hand of God in the Life of Joseph [1505] We see the hand of God in the life of Joseph, which demonstrates how God’s goodness is active in the lives of his people. Price: $4.50 Salvation Bible Study [1510] This Bible study on Salvation is interactive with the Word of God. You will be looking up the answers in His Word to see what He says. Price: $4.50 NEW BIBLE STUDY AVAILABLE Church Establishment [1507] This Bible study explores the purpose and mission of establishing churches within the biblical mandates of the Great Commission as given by Christ. Price: $4.50 For additional information and ordering visit www.acpublications.org Apostolic Christian Publications - 651 East Peoria St., Goodfield, IL 61742 Patient Care Manager Needed at Hospital Lumiere ospital Lumiere is seeking a qualified person to be assigned as Patient Care Manager of the hospital in Bonne Fin, Haiti. This is full-time position. H management capability, be able to learn the Creole language, be a member of the Apostolic Christian Church and be willing to relocate to Haiti for a term of up to 5 years. Description The duties of Patient Care Manager include planning, supervising & training employees and coordinating & implementing programs of nursing care for all hospital patients. For more information contact: Robert Beebe Executive Director [email protected] 574-276-6748 Requirements Applicants should hold an RN degree and have at least 3 years of nursing experience, some www.harvestcall.org March 2016 SILVER LINING 59 Medical Director Needed at Hospital Lumiere If you are a licensed physician with a God-inspired desire to provide medical care and leadership in an under-served part of Haiti, this may be the opportunity of a lifetime. The Need A licensed physician is needed to replace our Medical Director, Dr. Lee Klopfenstein, when his term is completed in 2016. To fill this full-time position, one must have a U.S. medical license, be Board-Certified in some aspect of medicine or surgery, be a Believer in Jesus Christ, have experience a team of excellent Haitian physicians and surgeons, and oversight of the nursing, laboratory, radiology and pharmacy departments of this 120-bed full-service hospital and out-patient facility. For more information contact: Robert Beebe Executive Director [email protected] 574-276-6748 in leadership and management, be capable of learning the Creole language, and be willing to reside with your family on the Hospital Lumiere campus for up to five years. The position involves leading www.harvestcall.org Surgeon and Medical Physician Needed at Hospital Lumiere Hospital Lumiere in Bonne Fin, Haiti, a medical ministry operated by HarvestCall, is seeking the following: Surgeon A surgeon is needed immediately to provide professional and Christian oversight and management of the Surgery Department of Hospital Lumiere, and actively be involved in surgical cases in their specialty. The surgeon can be boarded in general, urologic, orthopedic or other surgical field. Medical Physician A medical physician with family practice, pediatrics, emergency, or other medical subspecialty experience is needed immediately 60 SILVER LINING March 2016 Both of these positions are fulltime, but can be adapted to accommodate a physician who is willing to reside on the campus part-time or for several weeks at a time. Please prayerfully consider whether God is calling you to serve in Haiti. to enhance the diagnostic and treatment capability of our Medical Department, provide education and mentoring of our Haitian medical providers, encourage patient-focused care and maintain our mission of quality care with Christian love. For more information contact: Robert Beebe Executive Director [email protected] 574-276-6748 www.harvestcall.org Openings at Cite Lumiere, Les Cayes, Haiti Mechanic, Construction Department Assistant The HarvestCall Caribbean Committee is seeking to fill several missionary positions based at the Cite Lumiere compound in Les Cayes, Haiti. The specific job description may vary depending on the applicant’s interests and skills. Help is specifically needed in the following areas: Equipment mechanic An equipment mechanic is needed in the Construction Department in Haiti to maintain the vehicles, generators, and construction equipment at Cite Lumiere and Bonne Finn, Haiti and order, purchase, and maintain inventory of parts to support the HarvestCall programs in southern Haiti. This position would also involve training and mentoring a Haitian assistant to provide future mechanical maintenance. The equipment mechanic would reside in the Cite Lumiere compound in Les Cayes and report to the Construction Operations Facilitator. The applicant should be experienced in mechanical maintenance. Construction Dept. Assistant An assistant is needed in the Construction Department at Cite Lumiere as the work has expanded for the program and related ministries. This applicant could be a single brother or couple. Skills that would be valuable in the ministry include: • Carpentry • Mechanical experience • Basic computer knowledge • Ability to work with all types of people and personalities All applicants must be a member in good standing of the Apostolic Christian Church, willing to learn Creole and relocate to Haiti for a minimum of 3 years, and have a heart to serve the Haitian people. If you feel led to serve or have questions, contact: Bro. Jon Zeller 309-208-0639 [email protected] www.harvestcall.org Used Bible, Bible Story Book, and Song Book Distribution Used Bibles, Bible Story Books, Hymns of Zion, Zion’s Harp, Gospel Hymns, and Tabernacle Hymns are needed. AC Publications is now the collection center for your donated books. 651 E. Peoria St, Goodfield, IL 61742 March 2016 SILVER LINING 61 SPONSORSHIP: Giving Children Hope for the Future Those in the child sponsorship program have several things in common. They are very poor, they desire to learn, and they have an undying soul. The goal of this program is to provide an education so these children can learn life skills to enable them to become more productive adults. In addition, its purpose is to present a spiritual opportunity to be exposed to the gospel message and eventually be called to serve our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children. Isaiah 54:13 To Sponsor a Child or School Fill out this form and send to the office. You'll be assigned a student or school and sent further information. Learn more about child sponsorship, including costs, at: harvestcall.org/child-sponsorship Name _________________________ q Mr. q Mrs. q Miss Spouse ________________________ Address _______________________ City ____________St ___ Zip _____ Home Ph ______________________ Cell Ph ________________________ Email _________________________ 62 SILVER LINING March 2016 Please check preference: q Haiti Student q Jamaica q Haiti School q Guatemala q Mexico q Zambia q Wherever needed If possible, I prefer: q Boy – Age q Girl – Age q No Preference Send to: HarvestCall Child Sponsorship PO Box 36 Morton, IL 61550 Phone: 309-266-6080 Fax: 309-266-5281 Email: [email protected] www.harvestcall.org Continued Articles Walking in Peace — Continued from pg. 3 is what was missing from the man whose house was reinhabited by seven evil spirits worse than he had been before? “Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.”4 Walking in peace may not always be a peaceful feeling As we walk in peace with God and actively pursue righteousness, we can expect Satan to include us in his attacks. Walking in peace does not mean that life will be without temptation, trials, or attacks. Indeed, it may mean that such difficulties increase. Peace with God is not the absence of inner turmoil and conflict. It is not an emotional feeling of peace—although we may occasionally experience such feelings as a result of peace. It is the calm assurance that in spite of the spiritual attacks of the devil that the Lord is near us and hears us when we cry for help. Jesus confirms this by His last words to His disciples before His trial, calling us to keep His commandments, and promising that the Holy Ghost will bring His words to our memory. He reminds us that in this world we will have tribulation, but to be of good cheer because HE has overcome the world.5 Walking in peace with others In a similar fashion, although we cannot control how others respond to our actions, whenever possible, we are called to walk in peace with all men.6 Loving those who wish our harm is a challenge for the human spirit. By following Christ’s example, we can pray for our enemies, forgive those who mistreat us, and offer peace to a troubled and broken world. This pursuit of peace is worthy of our time and effort and perhaps more than anything else testifies of the peace of Christ in us. The Good News that Jesus brought to the world is that God has made peace with man by offering the blood of His only begotten Son in sacrifice and payment for sin. The invitation is given to believe and embrace that peace. Walking in peace with God will motivate us to pursue peace with all men—which provides evidence to others of the reality of the Lord’s offer of peace and bears fruit by propagating righteousness and peace in others … and so it continues. Walking in peace is sowing the seeds of righteousness to the salvation of souls. “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.” 7 (Footnotes) 1 Phil. 4:7 2 Romans 5:1 3 1 Peter 3:10-11 4 Psalm 34:14 5 John 14 - 17 6 Romans 12:18-21 7 James 3:17-18 “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 March 2016 SILVER LINING 63 Monthly Sermon, continued — Continued from pg. 5 understand why this is happening. Then to emphasize that, this host which I can’t begin to tell you how many that was but quite a lot I think, maybe a hundred angels that pretty much sealed it. They had the news broke. Recently my wife and I read at home about the wise men; there were three of them. It says they were from the east. I’m not up on geography, but they were informed again by God somehow that this King was to be born. They set out on a journey to find Him. So we ask the question, why them? Why the three wise men? We don’t know, of course, all the answers, but it says they brought gold, frankincense and myrrh as gifts. (St. Matthew 2:11) They brought gifts to Jesus. Then we can read where soon after they had to flee to Egypt because His life was in danger. So it was that they were perhaps well equipped with money and things that they needed to be away in Egypt for some time. The appearance of the wise men also marked this birth with sort of an official, even though it was a worldly, mark. The wise men came to Herod, it’s recorded. Herod called the scribes and Pharisees, I believe it was, those who knew the scriptures at the time. All this is recorded that Jesus was born. 64 SILVER LINING March 2015 So I guess as we read these words we see that God’s plan was being followed day by day, minute by minute. People were involved that we wouldn’t expect to be involved. Some were involved willingly; some were involved obediently. Some were involved, perhaps as the wise men were, out of curiosity. Whatever the motive, each one had a part and each of us has a part. We’re involved because we’re here. We could ask ourselves why we are here? Each one of us has a little bit different answer, but every one of us would have to agree we’re drawn here because of God’s love. Since He has loved us so great to include us in His plan, it certainly seems appropriate and the least we can do to inquire what His will is for us, that we could examine our hearts to find out if we are convicted or whether we have peace or whether we have yet answered the call to repent and be converted. If we are at that point, which there may be some here that may be at that point, what is the right choice for me. What is the right choice for me that I can get on track and find my position in this timeline that God has us on here? We’ve all been born at some point in time just like Jesus was born. The sooner we understand God’s will for us and understand that He wants us to get on this track, the more pleased He will be with us. I want to share again that God is very patient, in my experience, in that He had called me for quite a while before that day the Bluffton brother came to Sardis. I don’t want to give praise to man, but the Word tells us we learn by hearing the Word (Romans 10:17). So it was that I had that opportunity. So it’s time to get on track if we aren’t already. From time to time we need to adjust course or take a bearing at least and see where we are and see if we’re fulfilling our responsibility and our role as God has created us to do. We can’t escape the purpose we are here, the purpose we were created. Solomon said, “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). That supersedes and overshadows everything else in life and if we do that we don’t have to worry about the rest of our life. It will fit in just exactly wherever He puts us in. Understanding... — Continued from pg. 9 handle hurts in relationships with forgiveness. Remember, the Bible teaches us to forgive as Christ forgave, not based on whether other people deserve it. Ephesians 4:32, “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Final Thought It is important to note all of the areas are interconnected. Strengths in an area can serve to bolster other areas, while problems in an area can impact and cause issues in other areas. For example, let’s say a man was hurt deeply by someone who betrayed him (a relational wound). He then experienced strong emotions of sadness, anger, frustration, and loss (emotional effects). He often had difficulty sleeping as he replayed the situation in his mind and then was less focused at work due to lack of sleep (physical effects). Unfortunately, he didn’t work through those emotions and the hurt moved into deep bitterness and a hard heart (spiritual effects). The bio-psycho-social-spiritual model helps us be aware of four primary aspects of human life. Through greater understanding, we become better stewards of our lives in a God-honoring manner. Hopefully this article has been an encouragement and example of how we can continue to improve this stewardship. Remembering — Continued from pg. 66 Church Cemetery Today, the only link to the former days is a cemetery located three and one-half miles west and one mile south of Tremonton. The Apostolic Christian Church and the Apostolic Christian Church (Nazarean) provide funds for its upkeep. A variety of family names appear on the tombstones: Funk, Gasser, Eggli, Schrenk, Feucht, Weiser, Kupfer, Vierling, Meister, Imthurn, Boering, Brenkmann, Sommer, Wagenbach, Schmutz, Daininger, Storrer, Getz, Cartner, Kauber, Sorg, Kleinknecht, Trukenbrod, Woerner, Baer, and Sinn. -By Perry Klopfenstein Source: Marching To Zion and related research files. 515 E. Highland Street, Morton, IL 61550 Tel: (309) 263-5536 Fax: (309) 263-6841 www.accounseling.org ACCFS has numerous resources to assist someone who is going through a wide range of hurts and emotions, from the pain of loss to worry, loneliness, anger, stress, and others. Each resource, either created by or reviewed by ACCFS staff, is meant to assist in identifying the challenges of these powerful emotions and in bringing our actions into obedience to God’s Word. For these resources, please visit our website at www.accounseling.org/hurtsandemotions. March 2016 SILVER LINING 65 Learning from our history Remembering Our Spiritual Heritage From approximately 1901 to 1910 an Apostolic Christian Church existed at Tremonton, Utah, a town about 20 miles south of the Idaho border. The schism that took place in the first decade of the 1900s was a factor in the demise of the congregation. This article, however, does not focus on those forces. Rather a summary of the activities in the church’s development follow. of brotherhood and well being occurred and the members used to gather often for Sunday afternoon meals. In a 1980 interview in Peoria, Anna Hoerr, 80, made reference to the brethren gathering at her parent’s home for supper. She indicated the women worked very hard to host the brothers and sisters in these get-togethers. The Early Days at Tremonton Baptisms Five years after Utah was admitted to the Union, persons of Apostolic Christian background came to the area of Tremonton. Brethren were lured to the area by land agents who promised cheaper land with adequate potential. One of the land agents was Alvin West of Tremont, Illinois. Many of the early families of the church who settled here were from Tremont. Most of the families arrived in Tremonton between 1901 and 1904. Among the first to make the long trip from Tremont, Illinois, were the families of Gideon Winzeler, Louis Getz, and Henry Baer. The Samuel Imthurn and Matthew Baer families were also early arrivals. In 1904, Jacob B. Meister came from Archbold, Ohio, with his family. Largely, the first families came from Ohio, Illinois, and Kansas. Coming with the hope to improve themselves financially they met very primitive conditions when they arrived in Utah. They lived in shacks and were forced to drink canal water until springs were found. Also, they were a distinct minority in a state heavily dominated by the Mormon faith. On one occasion, between 1906-1908, baptisms were held in a ditch near the church. Anna Hoerr said an Elder Gerber came to baptize them. Likely, he was Christian Gerber, an elder at Fairbury, Illinois at that time. Elder William Kaufman, Silverton, Oregon, also came to Tremonton to conduct baptisms. Ministers The first ministers were Samuel Imthurn, Henry Baer, and Gideon Winzeler. A small building was constructed on a farm to hold worship services. Later, a church was built in town. The little country church was attached to the new one and used as a Sunday School. The little congregation grew to a peak of approximately fifteen to eighteen families. A sense 66 SILVER LINING March 2016 Living Conditions Despite harsh and somewhat primitive living conditions, the people were able to make a living. Anna Hoerr said, the people were “workaholics.” She added further, “All they did was work, work, work!” Surely, their inner character and moral strengths aided them in performing the chores and work necessary to “make a go of it.” Separation and Decline Although these believers could manage spiritually and maintain their cohesion, the national church schism — which manifested itself back east in 1906-07 — reverberated all the way to remote Utah. The brethren were drawn in to the dispute, and a separate church was established. Several families moved back to the Midwest, and over time, the Apostolic Christian Church in Tremonton was all but dissolved. In less than ten years, this promising little church was ravaged irreparably by the national schism. — Please turn to pg. 65 The Light of Hope Where is Satisfaction? What does it take to satisfy? And how long does the satisfaction last? These are questions that run through my mind. There must be something about this written in the Bible so let’s take a look. Yesterday I was reading in Isaiah 55 and found that this is mentioned in verse 2. It reads “Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? And your labour for that which satisfieth not?” This indicates that there is a danger that we spend time and money and hard work on things that don’t really satisfy in the long run. In Psalm 90:14 we find these words, “O satisfy us early with thy mercy.” This indicates that real satisfaction comes from something non-material, something intangible like mercy, love, forgiveness, and salvation. I once read that someone asked John D. Rockefeller how much money it takes to satisfy, and he replied, “Just a little more.” When we say, “I’m satisfied,” it sometimes means we have enough to eat. However, we must be careful not to make an idol out of eating. In the case of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16 from verse 19, the rich man fared sumptuously every day, but it didn’t bring him any satisfaction after he left this earth. Real satisfaction must be eternal; it must meet our needs after death. “He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity.” Proverbs 5:10. Solomon, who wrote Proverbs, had plenty of silver and he lived in abundance, but was evidently surprised that it did not bring him real satisfaction. If I understand it right, he decided that all material things are vanity in that they cannot satisfy the yearning of the human heart and soul. Jesus told the story of a certain rich man whose ground brought forth plentifully. Luke 12:16. This man built bigger barns to store all his goods and thought that he would eat, drink, and be merry. However, God said, “This night thy soul will be required of thee.” What do you think Jesus is teaching us here? It might be that He is indirectly teaching us to forget self and set about trying to help others and doing good. At least in Acts 10:38 it is written of Jesus, “Who went about doing good,” and Christ is our example. “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” 1 Timothy 6:6. I believe that satisfaction and contentment are closely related. Godliness must be a part of true contentment or satisfaction. Now if we take on things that are a poor example of what the Bible teaches we should be, it interferes with having the true satisfaction of being faithful to our Savior. It may be that this is where true spiritual satisfaction is found, by being, by God’s grace, the kind of person that God wants us to be. To find out what kind of a person that is, we need to look to the Bible and follow its teachings on how to live. When people compete with each other, in sports or in the market place, there is satisfaction in being on the winning team. However, in that situation some team needs to lose in order for the other team to win. On Christ’s team, we are all winners and the devil is the loser, not other people. Also, on Christ’s team, in the family of God, our satisfaction endures into the next world and into eternity. Real satisfaction is found only in Christ and the more faithful we are to Him, the greater the satisfaction. Can we think of anything we should do, or not do, in order to be more faithful? If so, let’s do it, or not do it, by God’s grace. Satisfaction is found only in Christ. Christ is everything to us. “Christ is all and in all.” Colossians 3:10. -by Willis Ehnle March 2016 SILVER LINING 67 THE SILVER LINING 1523 County Road 400N Congerville, IL 61729