Not all megachurches are exactly alike. But after studying those on this year’s list, a church growth analyst will see several similarities. This description combines them into one hypothetical story.

By Nancy Karpenske

You probably know someone who can’t stand the sight of blood—the man who considered becoming an emergency medical technician but couldn’t deal with the blood, the mom who nearly passes out while washing off her child’s bloody knee, the friend who avoids any movie with gory scenes. Blood can make us extremely uncomfortable.

But the death of Jesus, horrifically bloody, is the centerpiece of our salvation. We can’t afford to close our eyes or look the other way.

“For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed . . . but with the precious blood of Christ” (1 Peter 1:18, 19).

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace” (Ephesians 1:7).

“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ” (Ephesians 2:13).

“The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin” (1 John 1:7).

Revelation 5 records a gory scene. The apostle John is weeping because no one in the throne room of Heaven is found worthy to open the scroll. John is told, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll” (v. 5). Expecting the Lion, John sees instead a “Lamb, looking as if it had been slain” (v. 6). The Lamb takes the book, and everyone falls down to worship him. They sing a new song, saying, “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation” (v. 9).

Jesus poured out his blood, his very life, to bring redemption, forgiveness, purification, and reconciliation.

Jesus also ordained the way we would ponder and recall his sacrifice. He didn’t ask us to read graphic descriptions. He didn’t order reenactments. He didn’t prescribe paintings or movies. He commanded the drinking of the cup and eating the unleavened bread from the Passover meal. He could have asked for the slaying of lambs and told us to use their blood to paint door frames. But because of his death, no more sacrifice was needed. None better could be offered.

Our memorial is simple. But we cannot afford to forget that real blood was poured out, real flesh was torn. As it says in the old hymn, “See, from his head, his hands, his feet, sorrow and love flow mingled down.” By his wounds we are healed.

________________

Nancy Karpenske is women’s ministry director at LifeBridge Christian Church in Longmont, Colorado.

]]> http://christianstandard.com/2012/05/don%e2%80%99t-look-away/feed/ 0 http://christianstandard.com/2012/05/creekview-moving-to-an-exciting-future/ http://christianstandard.com/2012/05/creekview-moving-to-an-exciting-future/#comments Tue, 15 May 2012 18:18:10 +0000 Administrator http://christianstandard.com/?p=17300 By Kent Fillinger

Suppose you could describe most emerging megachurches by combining their characteristics into a description of just one congregation. The story you’d tell would likely look something like the composite picture presented here.

Crossroads Christian Church (Corona, CA) has had the best baptism ratio among megachurches in our survey for three consecutive years.

Our annual megachurch chart is one of CHRISTIAN STANDARD’s most popular features. This year there are more than 100 churches listed as megachurches (those with 2,000 or more in weekly attendance) or emerging megachurches (those with average attendance of 1,000 to 1,999).

Click here to look at the chart of the 2011 Megachurches and Emerging Megachuches.

Paul B. Childers, 95, of Louisville, KY, died April 21, 2012, at his residence after a brief illness. He was born in Huntington, WV, on June 28, 1916. He worked for Owens-Illinois Glass Co. In 1958, at age 42, he became a Timothy of the Sixth Avenue Church of Christ when he entered Cincinnati Bible Seminary to prepare for the ministry. While at the seminary, he worked as bursar, dean of men, and men’s softball coach. He worked as head of the accounting department at Standard Publishing, Cincinnati, OH, before being called as minister to seniors at Okolona Christian Church, Louisville, KY. He held that position for more than 30 years until his retirement. He was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Mary Ernestine Fodal Childers. He is survived by one daughter, Judy Meneely of Louisville, KY; three grandsons; and five great-grandchildren. Services were conducted April 27 at Okolona Christian Church, with interment April 28 at Woodmere Memorial Park in Huntington, WV. Memorial contributions may be made to Pine Haven Christian Children’s Ranch, P.O. Box 940, St. Ignatius, MT 59865. (posted 5-14-12)

Charles L. “Charlie” Lee, 79, of Springfield, IL, died April 13, 2012, at St. John’s Hospice. He was born Dec. 12, 1932, in Xenia, IL, the son of Arvel Lee and Lera Lee Pearson. He married Cleo Boyer on Dec. 20, 1953. In addition to his wife of 58 years, he is survived by one son, Michael of Beaver Dam, WI; two daughters, Tjode Tomsu of Waukesha, WI, and Kristy Siegel of Buffalo Grove, IL; seven grandchildren; and two brothers, Roger Pearson of Little Rock, AR, and James Pearson of Pittsburgh, PA. After graduating from Flora (IL) High School in 1950, he attended the University of Illinois for two years, and then Lincoln (IL) Christian University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in 1956 and master’s degree in 1974. He held ministries at the Christian Church of Witt (IL) and Shoals (IN) Christian Church. He joined the staff at West Side Christian Church, Springfield, IL, as associate minister in 1962, a position he held for 35 years, retiring in 1997. After retirement, he held a part-time ministry at West Side for five more years. He then was a part-time associate with Bisch Funeral Homes, a volunteer at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum, and a docent at the Executive Mansion. He was also a member of Springfield Lodge 4 AF&AM, the Springfield Consistory, and the Ansar Shrine. In addition to loving his Lord, church, and family, Mr. Lee enjoyed traveling, anything related to John Deere, NASCAR, and working in his yard. Services were conducted April 19 at West Side Christian Church, Eddie Lowen officiating. Burial was at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to West Side Christian Church, 2850 Cider Mill Lane, Springfield, IL 62702 or Lake Springfield Christian Assembly, 1674 Lick Creek Lane, Chatham, IL 62629. (posted 5-14-12)

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ALPHABETICAL LISTING OF OBITUARIES

Martha E. (Taylor) Blackmore, 90, of Tulsa, OK (formerly of Hillsboro, OH), died Feb. 18, 2012. Born in Mitchell, IN, on Aug. 30, 1921, to LaVerne and Martha Taylor, she grew up a preacher’s kid as her father ministered in Hillsboro, OH (1918-21), and then for many years in Springfield, IL. She graduated from Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary in 1943, and studied vocal music for four years at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. She married Roy C. Blackmore in 1943, and served with him in a ministry in Louisville, KY. They were a singing and preaching revival team for three years, conducting local church revivals in 10 states. They ministered with the First Christian Church, Flora, IL, from 1951 to 1961, and then served with East Tulsa (OK) Christian Church from 1961 to 1985. During their local ministry, she was a soloist, choir member, teacher, directed VBS and youth drama, and was a speaker for the North American Christian Convention in Tulsa, OK. In addition to her widower, Roy, she is survived by three sons, Philip, Timothy, and Mark; and several grandchildren, one stepgrandson, one great-granddaughter, and stepgreat-grandsons. A celebration service for her life was conducted Feb. 22 at Broken Arrow, OK, with a graveside service following at Memorial Park Cemetery, Tulsa, OK.

Paul B. Childers, 95, of Louisville, KY, died April 21, 2012, at his residence after a brief illness. He was born in Huntington, WV, on June 28, 1916. He worked for Owens-Illinois Glass Co. In 1958, at age 42, he became a Timothy of the Sixth Avenue Church of Christ when he entered Cincinnati Bible Seminary to prepare for the ministry. While at the seminary, he worked as bursar, dean of men, and men’s softball coach. He worked as head of the accounting department at Standard Publishing, Cincinnati, OH, before being called as minister to seniors at Okolona Christian Church, Louisville, KY. He held that position for more than 30 years until his retirement. He was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Mary Ernestine Fodal Childers. He is survived by one daughter, Judy Meneely of Louisville, KY; three grandsons; and five great-grandchildren. Services were conducted April 27 at Okolona Christian Church, with interment April 28 at Woodmere Memorial Park in Huntington, WV. Memorial contributions may be made to Pine Haven Christian Children’s Ranch, P.O. Box 940, St. Ignatius, MT 59865.

Charles L. “Charlie” Lee, 79, of Springfield, IL, died April 13, 2012, at St. John’s Hospice. He was born Dec. 12, 1932, in Xenia, IL, the son of Arvel Lee and Lera Lee Pearson. He married Cleo Boyer on Dec. 20, 1953. In addition to his wife of 58 years, he is survived by one son, Michael of Beaver Dam, WI; two daughters, Tjode Tomsu of Waukesha, WI, and Kristy Siegel of Buffalo Grove, IL; seven grandchildren; and two brothers, Roger Pearson of Little Rock, AR, and James Pearson of Pittsburgh, PA. After graduating from Flora (IL) High School in 1950, he attended the University of Illinois for two years, and then Lincoln (IL) Christian University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in 1956 and master’s degree in 1974. He held ministries at the Christian Church of Witt (IL) and Shoals (IN) Christian Church. He joined the staff at West Side Christian Church, Springfield, IL, as associate minister in 1962, a position he held for 35 years, retiring in 1997. After retirement, he held a part-time ministry at West Side for five more years. He then was a part-time associate with Bisch Funeral Homes, a volunteer at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum, and a docent at the Executive Mansion. He was also a member of Springfield Lodge 4 AF&AM, the Springfield Consistory, and the Ansar Shrine. In addition to loving his Lord, church, and family, Mr. Lee enjoyed traveling, anything related to John Deere, NASCAR, and working in his yard. Services were conducted April 19 at West Side Christian Church, Eddie Lowen officiating. Burial was at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to West Side Christian Church, 2850 Cider Mill Lane, Springfield, IL 62702 or Lake Springfield Christian Assembly, 1674 Lick Creek Lane, Chatham, IL 62629.

Leroy B. Mills, 96, died Jan. 15, 2012, at his home in New Mexico after a brief illness. Memorial services were conducted Feb. 4 at Covenant Christian Church, Rio Rancho, NM. He was born May 17, 1915, in Kansas. His parents moved to Anaheim, CA, where he was raised with four brothers and one sister. He graduated from Anaheim High School and Pacific Bible Seminary. He married his college sweetheart, Mary Kay Friend, in 1936 in Albuquerque, NM. The two became church planters, starting three churches in Southern California. In 1940 they moved to Texhoma, OK, to minister with First Christian Church. In 1943 they purchased an old saloon-dancehall in North Albuquerque, NM, and started a church. The dancehall was made into a sanctuary and the saloon area, along with the kitchen, became their home. He ministered there for 19 years. He then ministered with a church in Grants, NM, and then, in 1965, started a church that eventually became Rio Rancho (NM) Community Christian Church, which he served until his retirement in 1980. After retirement, he moved up to Parachute, CO, to minister with a Christian church there. In 1991, he retired again. He and his wife were founding members of Covenant Christian Church in Rio Rancho; she died of colon cancer in 1991. He later married a widowed close friend of theirs, Marilyn Nolan, in 1993, and they enjoyed one another’s companionship until 1997, when she also died of cancer. He volunteered as dean, counselor, and teacher at Sandia Christian Camp in the Sandia Mountains. He supplemented his income by starting a tile and floor covering business called Mills Tile. Survivors include three daughters, Robyn Story of Cortez, CO, Carol Mills of Rio Rancho, NM, and Lois Mills-Brogan of San Marcos, CA; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to Covenant Christian Church, Hospice of New Mexico, Hope International University (formally Pacific Bible Seminary), or to www.MercyCorps.org, which serves poor populations around the world.

David Richard Morley, 66, of Sallisaw, OK, died of a heart attack on Feb. 25, 2012. He was born Dec. 28, 1945, in Bartlesville, OK, to David and Mary Morley. He received his BA from Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary in 1968 and was salutatorian of his class; he received an MDiv from CBS in 1973. He married Peggy Claire Parker of Decatur, GA, on Aug. 23, 1968. He worked for Standard Publishing for eight years, initially in the editorial department and then as a sales representative. He continued to do occasional freelance work for Standard for another 20 years. The couple ministered with churches for more than 37 years, including with South Liberty Church of Christ in Hillsboro, OH; Christian Church of Freeport (IL); Lincoln Park Church of Christ and Central Christian Church, both of Rockford, IL; First Christian Church in Glen Ellyn, IL; and for the last six years at the First Christian Church in Sallisaw, OK. In addition to his widow, Peggy, he is survived one son, Jake of Stony Brook, NY, one daughter, Kate of Fairfax, VA; sisters, Mary Bess, Nancy, and Jayne Morley; and one granddaughter. A memorial service was conducted March 3 at First Christian Church in Sallisaw with his cousin Billy Worthington officiating, assisted by Daniel Blankenship, Jim Remer, and Lee Woodard.

David Leroy Shelton, 59, of Kenmore, WA, died March 17, 2012, after a nearly nine-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was born in Guthrie, OK, and attended Oklahoma State University for three years, followed by one year at Marymount Performance College in Salina, KS. After a brief time in New York City, he returned to his home and reconnected with his childhood friend Steve Thomas, who led him to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. He soon chose to commit his gifts to the Lord’s purposes, and David Shelton Ministries was born. He met his wife, Debra Dudenhaver, during a 1984 ministry trip to Pennsylvania. After spending the first three years of their marriage in Tulsa, OK, the couple felt called to the Pacific Northwest and moved to the Seattle, WA, area. He spent his entire adult life using his dramatic and musical talent to make the Bible come to life and sharing the love of Christ with all who would listen. He performed across the nation and abroad in such venues as churches, nursing homes, Christian schools, colleges, and conferences. Among other things, he would perform entire books of the Bible. One of his favorite activities was to visit prisons and share hope with the hopeless. He also loved to sing and do vocal impersonations, and he always deferred applause to the Lord by pointing up. He is survived by his widow, Debra; three children, Paul David, Jessica, and Connor; sisters, Debra Phillips and Dana Stout; and brother, Darrell. Memorial services were conducted March 25 at Canyon Hills Community Church in Bothell, WA, and March 31 at Highland Park Christian Church in Tulsa, OK. Memorial contributions may be made to Royal Family Kids Camp, Poulsbo, WA (www.poulsbo.rfkc.org), or to David Shelton Ministries so that a few unfinished projects may be completed.

Lucille Stanley, 90, a veteran missionary to Africa, died Jan. 2, 2012, at the Mbango Retirement community in Port Shepstone, South Africa. She was born on Aug. 19, 1921, to Orrin and Bessie (Pickett) Stanley. She married Lynn Stanley in 1942, while both were students at Minnesota Bible College. In October 1953, after ministries in Minnesota and Indiana, along with graduate studies for her husband and the births of five boys (one of whom died in infancy), the family moved to serve in Africa. The focus of their ministry for more than 40 years was equipping a national leadership for the church in South Africa. They lived first in Kimberley (where a daughter was born), and then on the south coast near Port Shepstone. Mrs. Stanley was preceded in death by her husband, Lynn, in 1999; two sons, David (in infancy) and Darrel; one brother, Merton Eaton; and one sister, Evelyn. She is survived by three sons, Michael of South Africa, and Duane and Larry of the Twin Cities in Minnesota; one daughter, Debbie Neethling of near Port Shepstone, South Africa; 12 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one sister, Phyllis Masterjohn of Washington. While South Africa was their adopted country, and they retired there, they always considered “home” to be Kimball, Minnesota, and their gravestone is in the Maine Prairie Cemetery.

Astor Thompson Stevens, 83, of Amarillo, TX, died Jan. 6, 2012. She was born on June 28, 1928, in Pikeville, KY, to Trimble and Virgie Thompson, and was the ninth of 11 siblings. In order to take Bible classes in high school, she chose to attend, and later graduated from, Mountain Mission School in Grundy, VA. She attended Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary, where she met Everett Stevens; they married on Nov. 17, 1950. Together they served in various ministries in Cincinnati and Kentucky before graduation; they later served in Christian churches in Illinois, Texas, Kentucky, Colorado, and Kansas. Together they led in the establishment of Oak Dale and Highland churches in Amarillo, TX, and Falcon Christian Church in Colorado. She was the head cook at El Porvenir Christian Camp in Las Vegas, NM, for three years while her husband was manager there. She was preceded in death by one daughter, Judith Barclay; one son, James Harold; six brothers; and three sisters. She is survived by her widower, Everett; one son, Timothy Dale of Amarillo; two sisters, June Young and Betty Nichols of St. Clair Shores, MI; one grandson; and seven great-grandchildren. Services were conducted Jan. 10 at Church of Christ at the Colonies, Amarillo, TX, with Dick Marcier and Roy Wheeler officiating.

ALPHABETICAL LISTING OF OBITUARIES

Connie Lynn Bolinger, 58, of Nashville, TN, died May 22, 2011, after an extended illness. She was born Feb. 12, 1953, in Gary, IN, the daughter of Elwood and Bonnie (Starks) Bolinger. She grew up in the First Christian Church of Hessville, Hammond, IN. A graduate of Morton High School in Hammond, she attended Indiana University and Saint Brieuc in Brittany, France. After moving to Nashville, TN, in 1990 she became staff assistant at First Christian Church, later Aspen Grove Christian Church, of Franklin, TN, a position she held for 21 years. She was a gifted musician and writer. In addition to serving on the church praise team, she was also an accomplished studio musician who participated in many private and professional recordings. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, David. She is survived by one brother, John of Colorado. A celebration of life service was conducted at Aspen Grove Christian Church on June 4 with Clinton J. Holloway and Cathy Coulter officiating. Her ashes were interred in Colorado.

Richard “Preacher Dick” Boroff, 80, of Eaton, OH, died Jan. 21, 2011, in Eaton. He was born June 14, 1930, in Findlay, OH, to the late Clayton and Mary Iola (Patterson) Boroff. He graduated from Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary in 1958, and was ordained by his home church in Findlay that same year. He was married soon after graduation to another CBS graduate, Velma LeFever, in Danville, IL. He served numerous churches in West Virginia, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. He retired in 1996 from the Church of Christ, Eaton. He was a member of the Eaton Kiwanis and Preble County Council on Aging. He was preceded in death by one brother, David. In addition to Velma, his wife of 52 years, he is survived by one son, Mark of Vandalia, OH; and one sister, Donna LeMay of Tempe, AZ. Funeral services were conducted Jan. 25 at the Church of Christ, Eaton, with Paul Nickols and Alan Keesling officiating. Burial was at Mound Hill Cemetery in Eaton.

Ed Bousman, 92, of Lynchburg, OH, a radio and television evangelist for 49 years and a minister for more than 68 years, died May 16, 2011, at his home. He was born Oct. 1, 1918, in Matewan, WV, the son of William Edward and Delpha Smith Bousman. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Cincinnati (OH) Bible College and Seminary and a master’s degree in communications from Xavier University in Cincinnati. In addition to his radio and television ministries, he served churches of Christ in Hartford, KY, and Genntown, Hollowtown, Lynchburg, Allensburg, and Marshall, OH. He began the God Is Just A Prayer Away radio ministry in 1962; this November would have marked the ministry’s 50th year. In 1984, he started the Preaching Christ television program. In 1997, he started Bible Voice Europe, a shortwave radio program reaching all European countries, including Russia. Also in 1997, he began Shortwave Radio Africa, directed at more than 140 million English-speaking people in three former British Colonies: Nigeria, Ghana, and the Cameroons. In 1999, he started broadcasting into India and neighboring countries to reach a potential audience of more than 1 billion people. In 2003, GIJAP began broadcasting into western Russia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Ukraine, Czech Republic, and Bulgaria. In 2006 he began broadcasting to a potential audience of 344 million via a transmitter in northern Africa. He is survived by his widow, Naomi Angel Bousman, whom he married Dec. 18, 1982, at Madeira (OH) Church of Christ, one daughter, Melanie Rightmyer of Holtville, AL; one son, Eric Vail of Edgewood, KY; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Roberta, on July 4, 1980; one sister, Lucille Livesay; and one brother, Jay. Services were conducted May 21 at the Allensburg Church of Christ, Lynchburg, with Lee Mason and Bob Stevens officiating. Burial was at Lynchburg Masonic Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to “God Is Just a Prayer Away” Radio Broadcast, P.O. Box 511, Lynchburg, OH 45142. For more information or to send condolences, visit www.turnerfuneralhomes.cc.

Janice L. Burdick, 82, of Blue Springs, MO, died Feb. 19, 2011, after a brief illness. She served in ministries with her husband, Bruce, for more than 55 years in seven different locations. In addition to Bruce, she is survived by two sons, Eric of Arizona and Scott of Kalamazoo, MI; one daughter, Pamela Price of Missouri; and five grandchildren. Bruce Burdick may be contacted at 1621 SW Sixth St., Blue Springs, MO 64014 or (501) 984-1135.

Don Butler, 91, a Christian church minister since 1941, died Feb. 24, 2011, in Thousand Oaks, CA. His wife of 67 years, Gwen, 91, died a few months later, on June 3 in Grove, OK. Mr. Butler was born in Middletown, OH, and enrolled in Cincinnati (OH) Bible College in 1941. There he met Gwendolyn Koss of Decatur, IL. They were married June 22, 1943, after she graduated. He graduated in 1945 and went on to earn a master’s degree while the couple took their first ministry in Sherborn, KY. In 1948 he was asked by the Southern Michigan Christian Fellowship to start a new church in Detroit. After that church was successfully established and a new building was completed, the Ohio Ministerial Association invited him to begin a church in suburban Toledo, OH, and he started that work in 1955. While planting the Garden Park Church of Christ, Mr. Butler was also promotional director of the Lake James Christian Assembly, active in organizing new churches in the northern Indiana and northern Ohio area, and helped establish Great Lakes Bible College in Michigan. In 1960, he was asked by First Christian Church in Yuma, AZ, to lead the church in a major building and growth program. During his time there he became involved with the Christian Mission for Mexican Evangelism, eventually joining the board. In 1967, Regan Flannery and Ralph Dornette invited him to lead a newly formed church in Newbury Park, CA, under the auspices of the Southern California Evangelizing Association and Church Development Fund; this became his longest church ministry. In 1978, the couple sold their home in Newbury Park and Mr. Butler started promotional work for Rancho de los Ninos, an orphanage in El Provenir, Mexico, that had been established while the couple was in Yuma, AZ. He promoted and directed this work until 1995, when he was 76. During his time there, more than 2,000 Mexican orphans received care in a loving family environment. After retiring from Rancho de los Ninos, he conducted a seniors ministry in El Centro, CA, for two years, then fully retired at age 78. Mr. Butler’s services were conducted at Newbury Park (CA) Christian Church, and Mrs. Butler’s services were held at Grove (OK) Christian Church. Burial is at Mason (IL) City Cemetery, an old family cemetery.

Gene Stratton Carter. 84, died June 22, 2011, after a battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was born in Dawson, IL, on Aug. 4, 1926, the youngest of 10 children of George and Edna Carter. The family moved to Springfield, IL, before he entered school. The World War II veteran served in the Navy and saw duty in the South Pacific. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary in 1950. He also completed a master’s degree in higher education from Michigan State University, Lansing, and a master’s degree in ministry from Pacific Christian College, Fullerton, CA. Hope International University in Fullerton awarded him an honorary Doctorate of Divinity. He ministered with Franklin Street Church of Christ in Grand Rapids, MI; Brookport (IL) Christian Church; Woodview Christian Church, Wyoming, MI; Kentwood (MI) Christian Church; University Christian Church, Los Angeles, CA; and First Christian Church in Long Beach, CA. He also served as board chairman of the North Burma Christian Mission for 20 years. At Pacific Christian College, he was the assistant to the president, served on the board of trustees, was founding director of the EXCEL program, and was a professor in that program when he retired. The longtime Lions Club member served as chaplain, president, district governor, and board member of the International Lions. He served on the boards of many community agencies and was the honorary mayor of Westchester, CA. He met his wife Mary Kent at Cincinnati Bible Seminary. They were married for 64 years and had six children—Edward, Mary Gene, Rebecca, Carol, Wendy, and Margaret—17 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.

John Milton Carter Sr., 95, a resident of Mason (OH) Christian Village and a longtime editor with Standard Publishing, died April 28, 2011. He was born Dec. 6, 1915, in Buffalo, IL, the son of George and Edna Carter. He was raised in Dawson and Springfield, IL, where he was a member of West Side Christian Church. In addition to his widow, Fern Carter, he is survived by five sons, John Jr. of Anaheim, CA, James of Batavia, OH, Lawrence of Grand Ledge, MI, Gerald of Wyoming, OH, and Robert of Waxhaw, NC; 22 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Albert and Gene. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Freda Linn Carter. In 1947 (at age 32), he was valedictorian at Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary. He served as a minister with West Side Christian Church, Springfield, IL, Madisonville Christian Church in Cincinnati, and Moscow (OH) Church of Christ, and also as a Sunday school teacher. He was an editor with Standard Publishing for 34 years. Services were conducted May 2 at Christ’s Church at Mason. Interment was at Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield, IL. Memorials may be made to Mason Christian Village, 411 Western Row Road, Mason, OH 45040.

Charles E. Cook, 84. died Jan. 11, 2011, at Chesapeake Medical Center in Bel Air, MD, after a seven-year battle with lung cancer. The influential Christian leader and retired church minister served most recently (1984–2005) with Mountain Christian Church in Joppa, MD, the first 10 years as senior pastor. At MCC, he oversaw the growth of what is now the largest nondenominational Bible-based church in the Northeast. After retirement, he was named pastor emeritus. The son of a coal miner and grade school teacher was born in Christopher, IL, and grew up in the nearby towns of Elkville and Du Quoin. He began serving in ministry in 1945, at age 19, as a student pastor with a tiny rural church in Glen Elder, KS. In 1947, he received a bachelor’s degree in ministry from Manhattan (KS) Christian College. He was awarded a graduate divinity degree from Phillips University in Enid, OK, in 1952. That same year he married Barbara Jean Gregory, from Hennessee, OK, his wife of 58 years. From 1952 to 1954, he and his wife served with the Barnes-Cook evangelistic team, touring numerous states while leading revival meetings. An accomplished cornet player, he co-recorded several contemporary renditions of traditional Christian hymns while also performing vocal and instrumental duets with his wife in churches and revival meetings across the Midwest. During his lifetime, he established and pastored several small- and medium-sized churches into thriving congregations in Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, and Arizona, including Central Christian Church in Mesa, AZ, which is now one of the largest nondenominational Christian churches in the Southwest. From 1979 to 1984, he was professor of pastoral ministry at Manhattan Christian College. He was a founding board member of Christian Missionary Fellowship International, and served more than five decades in such capacities as director, chairman, and president. He served as president of the 1993 North American Christian Convention, St. Louis, MO, and also served on Standard Publishing’s Publishing Committee from 1986 to 1997. He visited churches and missionaries across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Among the many honors he received during his lifetime was the James A. Garfield Award from the Emmanuel School of Religion in Johnson City, TN, and an honorary doctorate degree from Pacific Christian College in Fullerton, CA. In 2005, Mountain Christian Church designated its former worship center as the Cook Auditorium. That same year, CMFI established the Cook Conference Center in honor of his 50 years of leadership and service. In 2006, the Emmanuel School of Religion established the Cook Institute for Excellence in Ministry. In addition to his widow, Barbara, he is survived by one son, Kevin of San Jose, Costa Rica; two daughters, Charlesa Kay Mullin of Bel Air, MD, and Leah Ann Crussell of Indian Hills, CO; one sister, Lowenn Land of Fullerton, CA; and six grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted Jan. 14 at the Cook Auditorium of Mountain Christian Church, Joppa, MD.

Ransom E. Ebersole, 95, of New Carlisle, IN, died on Aug. 3, 2011, at Hamilton Communities in New Carlisle. He was born June 6, 1916, in Elkhart, IN, the son of Edward and Maude Ebersole. He had lived in New Carlisle since 1969. He was a graduate of Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary. He served as minister with the Prairie Garden Christian Fellowship Church, New Carlisle, for 20 years, retiring in 1989; he also held ministries in Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas. He is survived by two daughters, Valinda Westman and Judy Cox; one son, Ransom; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two brothers; and one sister. He was preceded in death by two wives, Bea (Smith) Ebersole and Ruth (Hennen) Ebersole, and six brothers. Burial was Aug. 8 at the New Carlisle (IN) Cemetery.

Robert C. Ellenberger, 77, of Reynoldsburg, OH, died March 19, 2011. He was born in Punxsutawney, PA. He was a member of Benfield Christian Church, Columbus, OH. He was an ordained minister who had been married to Fayetta Little Ellenberger for 55 years. He received a BA in religious education from Kentucky Christian College in Grayson. He served in ministry with eight churches for a total of more than 57 years, including 13 years with the Grove City (OH) Church of Christ and 14 years with Benfield Christian Church. He was preceded in death by one daughter, Miriam Kay. In addition to his widow, Fayetta, he is survived by three children, Christi Sweet of Florence, KY, Lisa Allen of Louisville, KY, and Felicia Davis of Indianapolis IN; four grandchildren; one sister, Louise Gschwendtner of Dubuque, IA, and one brother, Ronald of Sun City, AZ.

Charles R. Gibson, 79, of Joplin, MO, died Oct. 4, 2011, at his home. He was born March 8, 1932, in Miami, OK. He was a 1955 graduate from Ozark Bible College in Joplin. While in college he held ministries in Sherwin, Oswego, and Galena, KS. After graduation he held ministries in Enid and Tulsa, OK, planted a new church in Norman, OK, and then held ministries in Indianapolis, IN, and Amarillo, TX, where he retired in 1997. After retirement, he moved back to Joplin and held ministries at Hornet, MO, and Quapaw, OK. He served in ministry for 60 years. He married Barbara Poor on Dec. 18, 1955, in Galena, KS. In addition to his widow, he is survived by one son, Doug of New Braunfels, TX; one daughter, Sheri Mecom of Bedford, TX; seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one son, Dick; five brothers; and one sister. Services were conducted at Park Plaza Christian Church, Doug Gibson and Virgil Eubanks officiating. Burial followed at Edgmand Cemetery, Columbus, KS. Memorial contributions may be made to the building fund for Blendville Christian Church, 2201 S. Picher Ave., Joplin, MO 64804.

Arthur L. Grove, 72, died Nov. 29, 2011, in Hospice House, South Bend, IN. He was born July 20, 1939, in Bremen, IN, the third son of Theodore and Myrtle (Reuter). After graduation from Bremen High School, he continued his education at Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary, graduating in 1961. He completed studies at Indiana University for teacher certification, and in 1990 received his master’s degree in library science. He married his college sweetheart, Martha McIntosh, in 1959 at the Syria Christian Church, Orleans, IN. They served in Christian ministry in Indiana, Arkansas, Virginia, and Michigan. He spent 30 years as a senior minister in local churches, pioneered the wilderness canoe trips at Rock Lake Christian Assembly, and served as librarian at Great Lakes Christian College, Lansing, MI, for 11 years. He was also involved with the Boy Scouts of America for more than 60 years. He was a member of Milford (IN) Christian Church at the time of his death. In addition to his wife of 52 years, Martha, he is survived by two sons, James of Stuttgart, AR, and David of Littleton, CO; one daughter, Deborah of Columbus, OH; one brother, Bill of Sheridan, AK; one sister, Carol Miller of Valparaiso, IN; and one stepgranddaughter. He was preceded in death by one brother, Kenneth. A celebration of life service was conducted Dec. 3 at Milford (IN) Christian Church, Stephen Leininger officiating. Burial was at Bremen Cemetery.

Francis Leigh Hargrave, 90, of Bristol, TN, died Feb. 9, 2011, after a brief illness. He was the fifth of seven children born to Ed and Ethel Hargrave; he was raised in Anna, IL. Early in life, he joined the entire family in singing and preaching to churches throughout southern Illinois. Later, he received bachelor’s degrees from Johnson Bible College, Knoxville, TN, and Milligan (TN) College (where he also taught for a short time), and a master’s degree from Lincoln (IL) Bible Institute. He was also certified to teach in public schools. He served many congregations over the course of 60 years, including: Forest Avenue Christian, Knoxville, TN; First Christian in Anna and Findlay, IL; and East End Christian and Central Christian, Bristol, TN, where he met and married Mary Emma Combs in 1946. Together, they worked with First Christian, East Gary, IN; Hampton (TN) Christian; First Christian, Griffith, IN; Avoca Christian, Bristol, TN; Camarillo (CA) Christian; First Christian, Lansing, IL; Hartford (KY) Christian; Central Christian, Winter Haven, FL; South Shores Christian, Decatur, IL; Huntsville (AL) Christian; Dothan (AL) Christian; Jasper (IN) Christian; Harmon’s Chapel Christian, Shady Valley, TN; and Central Church of Christ, Johnson City, TN. His work included church planting, rebuilding congregations, constructing new facilities, teaching, and discipling. Areas of emphasis also included music, church camp, youth outreach, revivals, and global missions. At 78, he became a greeter at Wal-Mart in Bristol, TN, serving for 10 years before retiring after the onset of dementia. In addition to his wife of 64 years, Mary, he is survived by two daughters, Kathy Harless of Indianapolis, IN, and Andrea Braziel of Martinsville, VA; five grandchildren; three great grandchildren; one brother, Bob; and one sister, Joy Johnson. Services were conducted Feb. 12 at Central Christian Church, Bristol, TN. Memorial gifts may be made to Johnson Bible College, 7900 Johnson Drive, Knoxville, TN 37998. Condolences/memories may be shared with Mary at 120 W. Cedar, Bristol, TN 37620.

John Calvin Hays, 74, of Columbus, OH, died Feb. 9, 2011. He was born May 5, 1936, in Lexington, KY, the son of Daniel Lewis Hays and Anna Bruce Monson Hays. He attended the University of Kentucky and holds bachelor and master’s degrees from Cincinnati (OH) Christian University. He was ordained in 1960 at his home church, Broadway Christian Church, Lexington. He retired after 50 years of ministry in Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia. In addition to his widow, Patricia Carringer Hays, he is survived by two daughters, Sue Anne Barnes of Grove City, OH, and Gay Lynn Alsop of Clinton, TN; one son, Philip John Hays of Arlington, VA; and three grandsons. He was preceded in death by one brother, Donald Lewis Hays. Activities included serving on the founding committee of the Kentucky Minister’s Retreat and the founding board of Sayre Christian Village (in Lexington), and participation on The Christian’s Hour radio broadcast, the North American Christian Convention, and Billy Graham Crusades. He also took mission trips to southwest India. His community activities included serving with chambers of commerce, hospital boards, Masonic organizations, and Kiwanis clubs. He was a Paul Harris Fellow with Rotary International. Upon retiring from senior ministry in 2001, he and his wife received a trip to Scotland, which was a lifelong dream. In 2006, he completed his professional ministry as chaplain at Worthington (OH) Christian Village, where the couple moved in 2007. Services were conducted Feb. 12 at the Amazing Grace Christian Church, Grove City, OH, with burial Feb. 14 at Lexington, KY. A memorial service was conducted Feb. 20 at Worthington Christian Village. Ministers who participated included Ed Wilson, Brad Walden, Ben Heskett, Rand Richardson, Jay Fabin, Ermal Allen, Ronald T. Sams, Chuck Shonkwiler, Jim McClaren, Frank Shaut Sr., and Glen Wheeler. Memorials may be made to Southwest India Christian Mission, c/o Bill Klarich, 3414 40th Terrace E., Bradenton, FL 34208 or Worthington Christian Village Benevolent Fund, 165 Highbluffs Blvd., Columbus, OH 43235.

James Beale Hunter, 89, of Joplin, MO, died at his home on May 26, 2011, after a brief illness. He was born May 4, 1922, in Parthenon, AR, to Andrew and Obedience Hunter. He graduated from Johnson Bible College, Knoxville, TN, in 1944 and Butler School of Religion, Indianapolis, IN, in 1947. He married Kathryn Reynolds of West Lebanon, IN, on June 9, 1947. Together they served in Christian churches in Indiana, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Ohio. They moved to Joplin from Millersburg, OH, after he accepted a teaching position with Ozark Christian College. He taught church history, Restoration history, and New Testament courses for 22 years. He was a member of College Heights Christian Church, Joplin. He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathryn, on her birthday, Feb. 10, 2009. Survivors include one daughter, Joyce Smith of Carterville, MO; two sons, John of Webb City, MO, and Gary of Joplin; eight grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. Graveside services were conducted May 30 at Mount Hope Cemetery, Webb City, MO, with Rick Bushnell officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Ozark Christian College, 1111 N. Main St., Joplin, MO 64801.

Evelyn Jane Longdon, 76, of Indianapolis, IN, died of Parkinson’s disease on March 26, 2011. She was born Dec. 19, 1934, in Indianapolis to Arthur and Clemma Keys. After graduating from high school, she attended Lincoln (IL) Bible Institute (now Lincoln Christian University) for one year where she met and married Tom Corn, also a student there. They had two children: Andrea and Eric. Tom was killed in an automobile accident before the children turned 2. In 1958 she married Bob Longdon and together they had two children: Aaron and Athena. At the time of her death, the couple had been married more than 52 years and served in ministry together for more than 50 years. In addition to her widower, Bob, she is survived by her four children—Andrea Openshaw, Eric F. Corn, Aaron Longdon, and Athena Newcomb—eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Leah Moshier, lifelong missionary at Kulpahar Church of Christ Mission, Kulpahar, India, died on Nov. 4, 2011, in India. She was surrounded by her children and loved ones at the time of her death. She was buried that same day in the church cemetery beside the grave of Dolly Chitwood, who died in 1995. For 65 years, she was a dedicated worker for the advancement of education and Christianity in Kulpahar and throughout India. The mission began taking orphans in 1947 and has seen more than 800 students graduate from Kulpahar Christian School. Graduates of the school have become nurses, teachers, preachers, and business leaders. Many of these orphaned or abandoned children, through the ministry of the home and school, have been saved literally and spiritually for productive service for Christ and Indian society. A memorial service in her honor will be conducted Dec. 11 at Lincoln Heights Christian Church, 2121 E. Lincoln Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85016. Memorial donations in her honor and to benefit the Kulpahar Church of Christ Mission may be made viawww.lincolnheightsphoenix.com/kulpahar or sent directly to Kulpahar Kids home, c/o Ann Huffman, P.O. Box 32574, Phoenix, AZ 85064.

Susan Sweeney Schultz, 92, died May 31, 2011, in Springfield, VA. She grew up in Lexington, KY, where her father, William Elza Sweeney, was minister with Broadway Christian Church during its “golden age” of growth in membership and attendance (1920-31). A gifted organist and pianist, she graduated from Transylvania College in Lexington. She met and married Robert F. Schultz in 1944, when both were officers in the U.S. Marines. They ultimately settled in Northern Virginia and raised three children. She played the organ at area churches. In addition to her children, she is survived by four grandchildren. She was preceded in death by Robert, her husband of almost 60 years, and her three siblings. She was buried with military honors on June 8 at Quantico (VA) National Cemetery.

George “Clark” Sloneker, 92, of Schertz, TX, died May 12, 2011. He was born Oct. 4, 1918, to George and Julia Sloneker. He was raised on a farm in Kuna, ID. He married Beryl M. Bassingthwaite on Sept. 2, 1943, at San Jose (CA) Bible College, where they were both students. During his 55 years of preaching, he held ministries in Vallejo and Fellows, CA; Jerome, ID; Chadron, NE; Santa Cruz and Aptos, CA; Arlington and Hetland, SD; and Schertz, TX. During his retirement, he was active in new church plants at New Oaks Christian Church in Cibolo, TX, and LifeBridge Christian Church in Schertz. He was preceded in death by Beryl, his wife of 65 years; one brother; and two unborn grandchildren. He is survived by three daughters, Lois Sloneker of Schertz, TX, Claudia Tyler of San Antonio, TX, and Carla Billingsley of Abilene, KS; one son, Mark of Carthage, MO; and two granddaughters. A memorial service was conducted May 29 at Castle Hills Christian Church, San Antonio, with Robin Thompson and Al Houk officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to LifeBridge Christian Church, Schertz, TX.

Rolland Alvin Steever, 94, died on Dec. 3, 2011, at Mount Healthy Christian Home in Cincinnati, OH. He was born in Harrisburg, PA, to Walter and Edna Steever. He came to Christ at age 9 and was active in the Fourth Street Church of Christ. He graduated from William Penn High School in 1935, then went to Bethany (WV) College, transferring after one semester to Cincinnati Bible Seminary, where he graduated four years later. At CBS he met and married Ethel Sorrell, his partner in ministry and family for 72 years. He served churches in Columbus, Kokomo, and South Bend, IN; Granite City, IL; Elkins, WV; Savannah, GA; and Bel Air, MD. He also worked several years in the Estate Planning Department at Ozark Christian College, Joplin, MO. During his years of ministry in the East (1958–71), he spearheaded the effort to relocate Eastern Christian College in Bel Air, MD, where he served for a short time as president and many years as a professor. He planted and pastored the Creswell Church of Christ in Bel Air. He also helped start Indian Lake Christian Service Camp, Darlington, MD; Mid-Atlantic Christian Church Evangelism (a church planting agency); and the Eastern Christian Convention. He was a historian with an intense love for the history of the Christian churches/churches of Christ. In retirement he put together an innovative multimedia presentation of the history of the Restoration Movement that he presented in numerous churches. For 13 years, he wrote historical essays for The Restoration Herald. At age 90, those essays were published in a book called Looking Back to See Ahead. He is survived by his widow, Ethel, of Mount Healthy Christian Home, Cincinnati; three children, Dick, Norma, and Bart; and six grandchildren. A memorial service was conducted Dec. 6 at the Parkside Christian Church, Cincinnati, OH.

Ruth Elaine (Baker) Stith, 76, of Toledo, OH, died June 1, 2011, at Swanton Valley Healthcare, where she had been a resident. She was born Aug. 5, 1934, in Quapaw, OK, to James Franklin and Frances (Burke) Baker. She attended Ozark Bible College in Joplin, MO, Cincinnati (OH) Bible College, and Franklin Technical School in Joplin, MO. She married Kenneth W. Stith on June 6, 1958, in Quapaw, and together they served many Christian churches. She served as a song leader, choir director, children’s teacher, church camp teacher, drama director, and in other ways. Survivors include one daughter, Kendra Mizer of Toledo. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ken; an infant son, Eric; two brothers, Ray and Jim Baker; and one sister, Sue Clark. Memorial contributions may be made to Garden Park Christian Church, 8605 Salisbury Road, Monclova, OH 43542; Brazilian Evangelism (Jim Moreland); or the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Dewey Anderson Thackston, 73, of Waterville, OH, died there on March 13, 2011. His more than 50-year ministry touched the lives of people across the United States and in Canada, Europe, and Asia. He was born in Mason County, KY, on Nov. 15, 1937, to Anderson Walker Thackston and Ella Hord (Walker) Thackston. He was valedictorian of White Oak High School, Mowrystown, OH. The Timothy of Sugar Tree Ridge Church of Christ, Hillsboro, OH, graduated from Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary in 1959. He also attended Goethe Institute, Universitaet Wien, Fort Hays State University, and Niagara School of Broadcasting. He was married to Barbara Lee (McElroy), who died in 1997. He is survived by his children, Jeffrey Allen of O’Fallon, MO, Col. John Michael of Tucson, AZ, and Joy Melinda Snell of Appleton, WI; seven grandchildren; two brothers, Ronald and Allen; and two sisters, Barbara Rendell and Evelyn Thackston. He served as evangelist/minister with churches in Dry Ridge, KY; Hays, KS; Tulsa, OK; Plainfield, IN; and Olney, IL. He also served as a missionary in Niagara Falls and Toronto, Canada, and behind the Iron Curtain with TCM International, Vienna, Austria. In addition, he was campus minister with Active Christians Today at Bowling Green (OH) State University. He also was a gifted vocalist and worship leader serving, among others, the North American Christian Convention and National Missionary Convention. He pioneered a radio news program called Crossfire in Niagara Falls, NY. While in Canada, he was editor of the Canadian Christian Harbinger. He was a member on many boards and advisory committees for church and missionary organizations, including the Philippine Mission Churches of Christ, Central Luzon. A memorial service was conducted at Sugar Tree Ridge Church of Christ, Hillsboro, OH, on March 19. Memorials may be made to the Center for Church Renewal, 1027 Commercial St., Appleton, WI 54914.

George A. Tietze, 96, of Phoenix, AZ, died Oct. 24, 2011, after battling cancer. He was an orphan who persevered through tough times, became a minister, and served churches in Minnesota, Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois for more than 70 years. He attended Minnesota Bible College (now Crossroads College), Rochester, MN; Butler Theological Seminary, Indianapolis, IN; and graduated with a BA from St. Louis (MO) Christian College. In 1945 his first wife, Nola Bell, died during childbirth; the baby, Larrimore, lived only five days. He was also preceded in death by his second wife, Stella Ashley Tietze, and two sisters, Alyce Williams and Esther Oliver. Memorial services were conducted at his home church, Chaparral Christian Church, Scottsdale, AZ, and at Christian Care/Fellowship Square in Phoenix, where he resided.

Thomas Richard “TR” Todd Sr., 91, died on Nov. 10, 2011, at the Oklahoma Veteran’s Center in Talihina, OK. He was born on Oct. 13, 1920, at Quinton, OK, to Cecil William Todd Sr. and Emily (Cent) Todd. He completed the eighth grade at Nashoba, OK, and later a 17-month mechanic’s course. He graduated from Clayton (OK) High School with the class of 2002, and was honored as their oldest graduate. He served with the Civilian Conservation Corps, the U.S. Army (Pacific theater during World War II), and later, the U.S. Air Force. He was wounded in combat on Okinawa; enemy artillery fire partially penetrated the metal-covered Bible in his shirt pocket. He was the recipient of three Purple Hearts and one Silver Star. His brother Cecil led him to the Lord, baptized him into Christ, and later ordained him into the gospel ministry at the First Christian Church, Clayton, OK. While attending San Jose (CA) Bible College, he began a “street ministry” in San Jose and San Francisco. He made several missionary trips to India and led tens of thousands of people to Christ and baptized them. His efforts in India helped lead to the establishment of several churches, a children’s home named for his mother, and The Thomas Todd Evangelistic Team. He served as minister with Christian churches at Quinton, OK, DeQueen, AR, and Two Mile, near Talihina, OK. While residing in Clayton, OK, he was a member of the American Legion post (serving as chaplain), the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and was an active member and leader in the Clayton Christian Church. He was preceded in death by one brother, John Daniel Todd Sr. He is survived by two sons, Thomas Ray “Tommy” Todd of Dallas, TX, and Thomas Richard Todd Jr. of Santa Rosa, CA; two sisters, Lucy June Joslin and Marie Josie Young; seven brothers, Gaston Hershel “Bill” (who died 10 days after TR died), Robert “Bob,” Cecil William, Harry Price, Lee Albert, Grady Clyde, and Donald Wayne “Don”; four grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. The funeral service was conducted at Clayton High School. Among those participating in the service were brother Cecil Todd (who presented the eulogy); brothers Bob, Lee, Grady, and Don Todd; and Ava Kasich. His interment was at Blackfork Cemetery, Nashoba, OK, with Grady and Don Todd, along with Johnny Joslin, participating.

Larry Lee Young, 70, died on Sept. 14, 2011, at Cedar County Memorial Hospital in El Dorado Springs, MO. He was born Oct. 1, 1940, to William Ernest and Beulah Esther Crider in Shoal Creek, MO. In 1960 he entered the U.S. Army and served in South Korea, Vietnam, and as a member of the ski and rifle team while serving in Alaska. He was a recipient of the Bronze Star and other service-related medals. On Nov. 2, 1962, he married M. Josie Todd and together they had three sons and one daughter. He started preaching in 1968 and served churches in Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, and Ohio. He entered Ozark Bible College, Joplin, MO, in 1970 and later Midwest Christian College in Midwest City, OK. After ministering in Booker, TX, he started an 18-year career in law enforcement. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Howard, Ewell, and Donald; and two sisters, Nora Elizabeth Myers and Juanita Kemper. He is survived by his widow, Josie; three sons, Larry, Donald, and Michael; one daughter, Teresa; and eight grandchildren. Services were conducted Sept. 19 at Roscoe (MO) Christian Church, with interment at Concord Cemetery, Crocker, MO.

By Paul S. Williams

It was a warm January in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and the Christian Camp Leaders Conference had the run of the DoubleTree. The 200 of us were pretty much the only guests in the resort hotel. I had come to speak. The other attendees had come to enjoy being together during the “slow” season of Christian camping. I was favorably impressed by their warm and inviting conference. It made me want to work at a camp just so I could go again.

The conference board is comprised of a number of capable and humble leaders from more than a dozen Christian church camps. Lance Powers, from Round Lake Christian Assembly in Ohio, was the chairman of the 2012 conference. Main speaker aside, he and the conference board planned a great program. As might be expected, it was incredibly efficient and effective, just like the camps they run. I had the privilege of meeting with the board members for a brief time, and they struck me as a rare breed of leaders, those with the paradoxical strengths of great confidence coupled with great humility.

The conference included managers, program directors, maintenance workers, and cooks from about 50 Christian church camps. They met to compare best practices, encourage one another, and draw closer to Jesus. Many have been in their jobs for 20 or 30 or more years. John and Sybil Love have been at Lake James Christian Assembly in Indiana for 34 years. This year’s conference honored Randy and Nancy Pim, currently with Camp Allendale in Indiana. They have been leading camps for more than a quarter of a century. Most of those at the conference see their work as a calling. They are happy to be called, “lifers.”

On my way home I pondered the strength of such a gathering. It seems there aren’t many Christian church-specific events that are as strong as the Christian Camp Leaders Conference. We do not value time together as much as we once did. Larger churches are mini-denominations unto themselves, and new churches tend to favor cross-
denominational events. Our camps, on the other hand, still represent what is wonderful about the Christian churches and churches of Christ.

Several churches form a camp. Camps unite to form an annual conference. The annual conference encourages stronger and better camps. Everyone benefits. It is that kind of cooperation that has been a hallmark of Christian church strength. These camp leaders are well aware of their need for each other and grateful for the strong bonds that unite.

I do not fear for the future of our Restoration Movement camps. They are in good hands. I hope and pray the churches supporting them remain equally strong.

______

By Sam E. Stone

Matthew, Mark, and Luke are known as the “synoptic Gospels.” These three accounts of Jesus’ life follow a similar outline and record many of the same events. The Gospel of John, written some years later, supplements our knowledge of Christ’s ministry in a wonderful way. While John recounts many of the same things as the other three, he also includes other significant teachings and events not previously recorded. Today’s lesson is one of them.

Near the end of his three-year ministry, Jesus returned to the Jerusalem area. One of his favorite places to visit there was the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus in nearby Bethany. In this instance, however, Christ was called there urgently by the two sisters when their brother became very sick. “If only Jesus were here!” they must have been thinking. They had seen his miracles in the past. Jesus delayed his arrival, however, allowing Lazarus to die.

Lazarus Buried
John 11:17-27
When Jesus and the apostles arrived, Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. The Jewish practice was to bury the person on the day he died (compare Acts 5:6, 10). Many Jews had come from nearby Jerusalem to express sympathy. Traditionally there were seven days of mourning (1 Samuel 31:13). Upon hearing that Jesus was coming, Martha went out to meet him, but Mary remained at home. Their reactions were not unexpected from what we learn about the sisters elsewhere (Luke 10:38-42).

“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” No doubt the sisters had repeated this remark more than once. Mary said the very same thing when she saw Jesus soon afterward (John 11:32). Surely the one who had healed so many would have healed their brother. “But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.” Nothing is too difficult for God.

Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” Martha nodded, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” She affirmed the ultimate day of resurrection. All Jews (except the Sadducees) believed this. She had dared to hope for something more.

“I am the resurrection and the life.” This is another of the seven great “I Am” statements in the Gospel of John (see 6:35; 8:12; 10:9; 10:11; 14:6; 15:5). To all who trust and obey him, he promises not only the resurrection of the body, but eternal life (Acts 3:15; Hebrews 7:16). “He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” Jesus encouraged Martha to declare her personal faith.

“Yes, Lord,” she told him, “I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.” Like Peter, Martha made a magnificent declaration of her personal belief in Jesus. Whenever this affirmation is made with understanding, it “embraces all that is true and discards all that is false.” The verses that follow make it evident that her faith was justified.

Lazarus Raised
John 11:41-44
In verses 28-40 (not in today’s printed text) we find that when Mary learned Jesus was there, she quickly went to him. Others followed her, thinking she was going to the tomb to mourn there. When Jesus saw her weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. He asked, “Where have you laid him?” They replied, “Come and see, Lord.” Then follows the shortest verse in the Bible—”Jesus wept.” When Jesus told them to remove the stone from the tomb entrance, Martha was hesitant, fearing a bad odor. He reminded her that, if she believed, she would see the glory of God.

Jesus then prayed aloud to his Father, so that all would know this was done through his power. His purpose in every miracle was “that they may believe that you sent me.” He then called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” and Lazarus did! With his hands and feet still wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face, he made his way to the tomb entrance. “Take off the grave clothes and let him go,” Jesus ordered. Who can imagine the thrilling reunion of family and friends, the awe of everyone in witnessing such a miracle, and the glorious hope that extends from this moment for all ages?

________

*Lesson based on International Sunday School Lesson, © 2008, by the Lesson Committee. Scripture quotations are from the New International Version ©1984, unless otherwise indicated.

I think two of the most dangerous influences any church faces are (1) spiritual leaders who have lost their first love and (2) the onslaught of church hoppers.

Having wavered before in my faith and flirted with losing my first love with God, I know firsthand how dangerous the first one can be. But that’s something we spiritual leaders have control over. The second one . . . not so much.

I call church hoppers “connoisseurs of fine churches” because they’re continually on a quest to find the church that is spiritual enough for them, will endlessly gorge themselves on the “services” of the churches they attend, and always have a critical word to say afterwards whenever “church” doesn’t meet their standards.

Here are seven things we try to do to change their mind-set (or keep their butts from staying in the seats of our church for very long):

1. Ask church hoppers to commit to tithing and serving. That usually takes care of it right there. Because church hoppers are consumers by nature, anything that strikes them as sacrificial will surely turn them off. As a ministry friend of mine used to tell me, “At the first sign of trouble, raise the bar.”

2. Tell your people to stop inviting their Christian friends to church. Right before Christmas, I may have been one of the only pastors out there who stood up and said, “Please DO NOT invite your Christian friends to our Christmas services. We want other churches in the area to know we have their back. Also, we want to grow this church through conversion growth, not transfer growth. Let’s pack this place out with people who are keeping God up at night because they are living far from him.”

I strategically do that three or four times a year.

3. Preach short sermons. 
Howard Hendricks used to say, “Keep them longing, not loathing.” I buy into that philosophy. I try to speak anywhere between 24 and 28 minutes max (my staff will read this and say PLEASE . . . OK, I TRY to preach 24-28 minutes!).

Shorter sermons drive church hoppers nuts because they want to “be fed” (i.e., listen to long expository sermons). I’m not interested in “feeding people” unless they are in the early stages of their spiritual journey. Church hoppers, as well as Christians further along their spiritual journey, need to be feeding themselves. Anything I provide on Sunday morning is in addition to their own self-directed spiritual nourishment.

One point, one Scripture, 24 to 28 minutes, that’s it.

4. Don’t sing 9,345 worship songs. 
Church hoppers, 9 times out of 10, came from a church background where they were taught to need five or six worship songs to really connect with God. That needs to be retaught.

Where did we get the idea that worship = singing anyway? That’s part of it, but only a small part of it. Every part of the service is worship. Every part of my life is worship. Limiting your worship songs, except for occasions when you are led by God to expand the repertoire, forces people to recognize this or leave.

5. Keep your services short. 
We keep our services to 55 minutes, period. That’s it. That’s because we believe “church” is more than the official service that happens on a Sunday morning. It’s what happens before, during, and afterwards. It’s what happens during the week when two or three gather.

For the church hopper, experiencing a well-conceived, 55-minute service is like spending one’s whole life overeating and then sitting down for a healthy, well-proportioned meal that someone else serves you (“Hey, I’m used to eating 16 pieces of fried chicken! Why do I only get two?”).

6. Eliminate Christian “insider” language. 
The fact that I say “Leader” and “Forgiver” from the stage drives church hoppers nuts. “You meant to say ‘Savior and Lord,’ didn’t you?” At issue is an old missions word called contextualization, which basically means we need to speak in the language and culture of the hearer, not the speaker.

The Greek word kurios doesn’t mean “Lord” in 21st-century American idiom. Your old Bible translation from 50 years ago may read that way, but people aren’t talking that way today. Challenge your “insider” language and watch how church hoppers and their friends file right out of your services.

7. Sing non-Christian songs in your services. 
Trust me, that will weed them out. A few years ago we opened a church service with Jet’s “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” The theme of the song perfectly set up what I was going to teach on later in the service.

On Monday I promptly received an e-mail about it . . .

This past weekend, I could not believe my ears. When worship opened up, I heard the opening chords for Jet’s “Are You Gonna Be My Girl.” I was expecting the Apologetix parody version, “Are you gonna be Ike’s girl?”

But in listening to the lyrics, it sounded like the actual Jet song—a song about figuring out how to get a one-night stand, for a girl who came to some club or party with another guy.

I am hoping that I was mistaken and they were playing the Christian parody version because I am having a real issue with wrapping my head around why it would be remotely “OK” to play this content in a worship service.

There is a line between having a light fun service to reach the new/nonbeliever and cheapening the value and truth that the gospel can stand alone to reach out to someone. This may have crossed it.

Frustrated . . .

Name Withheld

Here was my response . . .

Frustrated,

I got your e-mail and appreciate you taking the time to shoot me your thoughts.

I must say that while I appreciate your concern, this is certainly not the first nor will it be the last time we sing non-Christian music in our worship services.

We do this because we are trying to reach both non-Christians as well as Christians in the same service, and playing a non-Christian song up front in the service, we have learned, puts people who are far from God at ease and can powerfully illustrate a teaching point.

Our philosophy has always been that Christians should be the ones that should be made the most uncomfortable in church, not the non-Christians. The way I put it is this—we will always choose to offend the Christians before the non-Christians.

Seeing that you are frustrated, and given the fact that I talked with a bunch of people far from God on Sunday who loved the energy of the song and felt connected to the service because of it, it appears that we have achieved our goal.

My suggestion is this—weigh carefully whether or not you want to be a part of a church that sings music like this, and plays difficult-to-watch video clips, and a host of other things to reach people who are far from God. If not, then now would be the time to look for another church before you put down roots too deep.

If, on the other hand, this is the kind of church you want to be a part of, I would welcome you to join in with everything you have and start reaching out to people far from God.

I hope this helps.

Thanks!

Brian

Church hoppers can be a lethal bunch, so don’t make them too cozy. However, please remember that God can also be leading some of those people to your church too. But that’s a topic for another day.

Brian Jones is the author of Second Guessing God and Getting Rid of the Gorilla, available at StandardPub.com. He is senior pastor of Christ’s Church of the Valley in Royersford, Pennsylvania. This essay first appeared on his blog at BrianJones.com.

Kevin Haah (far right) along with two staff members of New City Church of Los Angeles, Josh Paredes (far left) and Jonathan McCracken. Also pictured is Nidya Paredes.

Three years ago, Stadia partnered with Kevin Haah to plant New City Church of Los Angeles. Last month, Haah announced a partnership with Stadia that will result in 200 more churches across Los Angeles.

“New City has grown to about 400 people,” he says. “We reflect the ethnic and economic diversity of downtown and have built an amazing community of believers here. We want this same experience in every neighborhood in the city.”

Haah says Los Angelenos identify with specific neighborhoods, mentioning one of 119 areas when asked where they’re from. The neighborhoods range from small, 10,000-person areas to “cities within a city” like Koreatown, home to 225,000 people.

“If you include the communities that make up metro Los Angeles, there are about 200 neighborhoods,” he says. “Our vision is to plant a new church in each one.”

Ten other area congregations—many, but not all, independent Christian churches—are working together to accomplish the goal. This “Los Angeles Church Planting Network” has raised most of the money for the first two plants. Each of the 200 churches will be a Restoration Movement church, and Stadia has agreed to donate $50,000 to each one.

“We’re thinking slow and steady,” Haah says. “If we are faithful to plant one or two or three every year, and keep at it, we can have a huge influence for the gospel in this city. And we believe that as we show success in the first plants and build momentum, God will provide the planters and resources.”

He hopes people across the country with a heart for Los Angeles will join the cause, and he welcomes questions from churches interested in helping. Contact him at Kevin@newcitychurchla.com.