Church of the Nazarene

Emmanuel, God with us

dlsperry94 — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 20:48:21 +0000

Emmanuel, God with us

dlsperry94 Fri, 12/20/2024 - 20:48

As we celebrate this holy season, the Board of General Superintendents extends warm Christmas greetings to our Nazarene family worldwide. We rejoice in the profound truth of Emmanuel—God with us.

On that first Christmas night, Jesus entered his world in humility, bringing light into darkness and hope into despair. Today, his presence continues to offer new life and redemption to all.

In every nation and culture, Christ's love transcends borders, uniting us as one global family. From the vibrant communities of Mesoamerica and South America to the diverse landscapes of Eurasia and Asia-Pacific, and from the dynamic cities and towns of the USA and Canada to the rich cultural mosaic of Africa, we are called to share this hope with the world.

As we approach a new year, may the message of Christmas renew your spirit and fill you with the peace and joy of Christ. We wish you a blessed Christmas and a new year filled with his grace.

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." – John 1:14

With hope and gratitude,
The Board of General Superintendents

In Memoriam: 20 December 2024

dlsperry94 — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 16:13:40 +0000

In Memoriam: 20 December 2024

dlsperry94 Fri, 12/20/2024 - 16:13

The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received 16-20 December 2024.

Audrey Cameron, 89, of Dover, Ohio, passed away 22 November 2024. She was the widow of Paul Cameron, a retired minister who served in Pennsylvania and Ohio. Paul passed away in 2017.

June Clark, 93, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away 2 December 2024. She was the wife of John Clark, a retired minister who served in Oklahoma and Texas.

Kara Hays, 77, of Lubbock, Texas, passed away 21 November 2024. She was the wife of Hugh Hays, a retired minister who served in Texas.

Elizabeth Patmore, 81, of Knoxville, Tennessee, passed away 21 November 2024. She was the wife of Richard Patmore, a retired minister who served in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.
Donald Perrigo Jr, 69, of Shawnee, Kansas, passed away 20 November 2024. He was the husband of Lois Perrigo, a retired chaplain and educator who served in Kansas.

Gloria Sweigart, 92, of Marietta, Georgia, passed away 29 November 2024. She was the widow of Clarence Sweigart, a retired minister who served in Pennsylvania. Clarence passed away in 2018.

To view past editions of In Memoriam, click here.

Note: Please join us in prayer for the families who have lost loved ones. Click on names for full stories, funeral information, local online obituaries, and/or guest books (if available). To submit an entry of a minister or church leader, send to news@nazarene.org.

--Compiled by Nazarene News

Cheryl Crouch elected director of Nazarene Missions International

dlsperry94 — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 15:37:43 +0000

Cheryl Crouch elected director of Nazarene Missions International

dlsperry94 Fri, 12/20/2024 - 15:37

The Board of General Superintendents (BGS) announced the election of Cheryl Crouch as the next global director of Nazarene Missions International (NMI), effective 1 June 2025.

Crouch is a seasoned leader and ambassador for Nazarene Missions. She served as a Nazarene missionary in Papua New Guinea alongside her husband, Jeff, and she has continued to provide leadership at the local and district levels, including as NMI president of the West Texas District.

“Cheryl is an excellent communicator who effectively engages children, youth, and adults in missions,” said General Superintendent David Busic. “Her passion for missions is evident in the leadership she has provided over the years. The BGS is confident she will lead the thousands of volunteers who comprise NMI around the world with excellence in this new chapter.”

Cheryl will follow Lola Brickey, who served as global NMI director for the last ten years.

“It has been a blessing to participate in Nazarene missions both on the field as a missionary and at home as a District NMI President,” Crouch said. “Being Global NMI Director will allow me to continue my involvement by doing what I love: encouraging, inspiring, and equipping our faithful NMI volunteers. I’m excited to see where God takes us!

Cheryl is a popular speaker for children’s camps, NMI Conventions, and women’s retreats. She has authored over 35 books and many curriculum projects published by Nazarene Discipleship Ministries, Nazarene Missions International, and The Foundry. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English from Southern Nazarene University.

Currently, Cheryl serves as Chair of the Global Education and Clergy Development Committee and is a member of the General Board Executive Committee. She has also served on the Southern Nazarene University Board of Trustees, her local church board, and as Secretary of the Global Education and Clergy Development Committee.

“I am thrilled with the appointment of Cheryl Crouch as the new Global NMI Director,” said Global Missions Director Jim Ritchie. “She has energy, passion for missions, and a real ability to work collaboratively and inspirationally with others. I am very much looking forward to working with her in the days ahead as we continue to connect Global Missions and NMI to the local church around the world, with inspiring stories of all God is doing in missions through the Church of the Nazarene.”

--Board of General Superintendents

NYI requests prayer as Third Wave 2025 approaches

dlsperry94 — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 21:45:35 +0000

NYI requests prayer as Third Wave 2025 approaches

dlsperry94 Thu, 12/19/2024 - 21:45

More than 200 young leaders from all six regions of the Church of the Nazarene will gather for Third Wave 2025 in Orlando and Lake Placid, Florida, from January 7-12.

Third Wave is a Global Nazarene Youth International (NYI) Conference for emerging youth leaders aged 18-29. Around five emerging leaders from each field are gathered from around the world for training, discipleship, fellowship, and worship to help them begin to think globally.

“The Third Wave Conference is a celebration of our global NYI family, where we come together to learn from each other’s leadership journeys and support one another,” said David González, Global NYI Director. “It is also a time to affirm that our emerging young leaders are vital to the Church of the Nazarene.”

Third Wave was first held in Quito, Ecuador in 2004. More than 200 people gathered from 44 different countries. Since then, four more editions have been held: Johannesburg, South Africa (2007); Bangkok, Thailand (2012); San Jose, Costa Rica (2015); and Hyderabad, India (2019).

David Morris, middle school pastor at GatheringPoint Church of the Nazarene in Bourbonnais, Illinois, attended Third Wave in Bangkok (’12). Morris said that it was a transformative experience for him as a young youth pastor.

“It gave me the opportunity to witness firsthand the innovative and creative ways the Gospel is being shared with young people around the world,” Morris said. “I was inspired to think outside the box and be more intentional in how I engage with people in my local context while being mindful of the ways God is at work around the world.”

A call to prayer

Please pray for the participants of Third Wave 2025 from all our six regions. May our Heavenly Father fill each one with the Holy Spirit so they would respond to his invitation to partner with him in his movement in the world and that they will all become more like Jesus in the ways they serve this generation.

Please pray for the logistics and all the preparations for this event, as well as the traveling mercies for all. May everything be done for the glory of God.

Follow along during Third Wave 2025 on NYI’s Facebook and Instagram pages!

Asia-Pacific Region highlights compassionate ministries through 'NCM Sunday'

dlsperry94 — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 20:07:48 +0000

Asia-Pacific Region highlights compassionate ministries through 'NCM Sunday'

dlsperry94 Wed, 12/18/2024 - 20:07

Nazarene Compassionate Ministries Asia-Pacific held a virtual "NCM Sunday" campaign launch on 1 December 2024 with more than 100 individuals across the Asia-Pacific region. This event underscored the Church’s call to compassionate action and was a starting point for this year’s NCM Sunday observances.

Leody Echavez, the Regional NCM Coordinator, opened the session with a heartfelt reminder of the Church’s mission. “Compassion is who we are,” he stated, emphasizing that NCM represents “the Church in action.” The event aimed to mobilize Nazarene churches to embody this mission through prayer, giving, and acts of service during the NCM Sunday season.

Lynne Bollinger delivered the keynote address. She offered an engaging reflection on the parable of the sheep and the goats from Matthew 25. Bollinger challenged the audience to see the face of Christ in those who are hungry, thirsty, or in need. “When we serve the least of these, we serve Jesus Himself,” she reminded participants, urging churches to prioritize caring for the vulnerable in their communities.

Asia-Pacific Regional Director Kafoa Muaror shared words of encouragement. Drawing from scripture and personal experiences, Muaror reminded attendees of their role as ambassadors of Christ’s light in their communities, to be a light, a model, and to serve compassionately. He urged participants to lead by example and inspire others through their actions. His message was a reminder that the Church is called not only to respond to immediate needs but also to serve as a source of hope, strength, and inspiration for those around them.

One of the event’s key highlights was the launching of the Crisis Care Kit (CCK) campaign. Designed as a practical way for churches to participate in Compassionate work, the campaign encourages congregations to assemble kits filled with essential items such as hygiene supplies and necessities. These kits will be stored in every field/district and distributed to individuals and families affected by disasters or crises.

Echavez explained the importance of the initiative, noting that it aligns with the mission of NCM to meet human needs with Christlike compassion. “The Crisis Care Kit campaign is a tangible way for churches to show love and care,” he said. “It’s a simple yet impactful expression of the Church in action.” Churches were encouraged to make CCK preparation a central part of their NCM Sunday celebrations, aside from praying, and involve members of all ages. By participating, congregations provide practical help and foster a spirit of collective service.

NCM Sunday is a pioneering event in Asia Pacific that invites Nazarene churches around the region to focus on compassionate ministry. It is a time to reflect on the mission of NCM, which includes addressing poverty through the local church, responding to disasters, promoting child development, and providing other forms of care in the name of Christ.

Click here to learn more about the Asia-Pacific Region’s NCM Sunday initiative.

Nazarenes in Netherlands celebrate diversity with 'Holy Chaos'

dlsperry94 — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 19:31:38 +0000

Nazarenes in Netherlands celebrate diversity with 'Holy Chaos'

dlsperry94 Wed, 12/18/2024 - 19:31

On Saturday, 9 November, the Nazarene Church in Rotterdam came alive with the second edition of "Holy Chaos," a celebration of unity in diversity that brought together Portuguese, Bulgarian, and Arabic-speaking congregations from across the Netherlands.

From the moment guests arrived, the warmth of the Bulgarian congregation set the tone with coffee, tea, and homemade treats, creating a sense of family.

As the church hall filled with attendees from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds, the atmosphere grew lively with anticipation. The worship band, composed of musicians from Nazarene churches in Rotterdam, struck their first chords, and voices rose together in six different languages.

"I've never seen anything like it," Miriam from Slovakia later reflected. "People singing in languages they didn't even understand, connecting through their differences—it was beautiful. God's love brought us all together in that moment."

Throughout the evening, stories of faith and resilience took center stage. A young Bulgarian man shared how God had radically transformed his life. A girl in traditional Bulgarian attire recited Psalm 117 in both Bulgarian and Dutch, her voice weaving the two languages together.

Meanwhile, a young woman from the Emmaus congregation spoke candidly about her faith journey, and a member of the Utrecht congregation reflected on the challenges and growth they experienced while transitioning from life in a Syrian asylum seekers' center.

Annemarie Snijders led a workshop on navigating cultural complexity, offering practical insights into understanding and celebrating differences. Then came a deeply moving moment: participants prayed the Lord's Prayer, each in their native language.

"It felt like a glimpse of heaven," said Carlin, one of the international students attending the event. "People from different cultures, united in Christ, praising God together—it's how I imagine eternity."

The evening concluded with Hadassa Stehouwer and José Gonçalves leading the Holy Communion, a sacred reminder of the unity found in Christ. Afterward, the Emmaus congregation served a delicious meal that drew everyone closer.

"The food was amazing," Juliana from Germany/Ecuador shared. "But more than that, it was wonderful to experience everyone's kindness. I felt like I saw how Dutch churches come together."

--Church of the Nazarene Eurasia

In Memoriam: 13 December 2024

dlsperry94 — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 20:54:31 +0000

In Memoriam: 13 December 2024

dlsperry94 Thu, 12/12/2024 - 20:54

The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received 9-13 December 2024.

Helen Chandler, 98, of Kentwood, Michigan, passed away 27 November 2024. She was the widow of Donald Chandler, a retired minister who served in Illinois and New Mexico.

Norma Flack, 97, of Mount Vernon, Ohio, passed away on 9 November 2024. She was the widow of Paul Flack, a retired minister who served in Ohio. Paul passed away in 2003.

Lorrene Fowler, 87, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, passed away 1 December 2024. She was the widow of Bill Fowler, a retired minister who served in Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. Bill passed away in 1998.

Ronald McGilvra, 86, of Champlin, Minnesota, passed away 5 December 2024. He was a minister and chaplain who served in Minnesota, Utah, California, Idaho, and Montana.

Russell Metcalfe, 94, of Mount Vernon, Ohio, passed away 9 December 2024. He was a retired minister who served in Ohio, New York, and Massachusetts.

John Murti, 75, of Lodi, California, passed away 5 December 2024. He was a retired minister who served in California. He is survived by his wife, Visha Murti.

David Payne, 90, of Milton, Florida, passed away 7 December 2024. He was a retired minister who served in Kentucky, Colorado, Alabama, and Florida.

Georgina Rico, 93, of Chandler, Arizona, passed away 7 December 2024. She was the widow of Ogdon Rico, a retired minister who served in Arizona.

To view past editions of In Memoriam, click here.

--Compiled by Nazarene News

Venezuela church gifts Bibles to congregants

dlsperry94 — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 17:31:09 +0000

Venezuela church gifts Bibles to congregants

dlsperry94 Thu, 12/12/2024 - 17:31

Jesús El Buen Pastor Iglesia del Nazareno (the good shepherd) has been distributing Bibles to its members since January to encourage spiritual growth and connection with the Word of God.

Around 60 people in the congregation in the northwest area of Maracay, Venezuela, have received a copy, allowing them to dive deeper into biblical teachings and strengthen their faith.

The initiative, promoted by the church leadership, seeks to bring the Word of God to church members and provide them with a tool for personal and spiritual growth. The Bibles delivered were received with great enthusiasm, and members expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to access the sacred scriptures directly.

The distribution of Bibles is part of a set of initiatives like bible studies, prayer groups, and special events, which Jesús El Buen Pastor Iglesia del Nazareno has implemented to promote the spiritual growth of its members.

“I thank God for the precious gift I received from my pastor, Boggi,” Delmar Pérez said. “It is a privilege to receive such a beautiful Bible at no cost. It is a beautiful material. Searching through the Father’s scriptures makes me fall in love with him more and fills me with peace.”

--Church of the Nazarene South America

Korea Nazarene University celebrates 70th anniversary

dlsperry94 — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 17:23:51 +0000

Korea Nazarene University celebrates 70th anniversary

dlsperry94 Thu, 12/12/2024 - 17:23

Korea Nazarene University celebrated its 70th anniversary with a ceremony led by university President David Kyung Soo Kim. The anniversary was held on 21 October 2024 with the theme "70 Years of Memory, 100 Years of Promise."

The celebration was divided into a Thanksgiving service and a vision declaration ceremony. The Thanksgiving service included a worship service led by Chung Moo-sung, the KNU chaplain; a representative prayer by Cha Deok-young, the alumni association president; a special song, "I Have No Riches," by Lee Ji-won, the first graduate with a developmental disability; and a Scripture reading by Yang Hyun-hong, the vice president for administration and innovation.

Lee Ho-Jung – the first president after KNU became a university — gave an inspirational message called "We Must Go Our Way," taken from Luke 13:31-33. He challenged the faculty and staff to joyfully fulfill the mission entrusted to them by God in God's way, as God is the Lord and Father. He also emphasized through a song that it was time to determine the mission by following the footsteps of the Lord, who went all the way to the cross.

The message was followed by congratulatory videos from former presidents and closed by Kim Young-baek, second chairman of the Board of Trustees.

The second part of the celebration was a visioning ceremony. The ceremony began with a congratulatory performance by KNU graduates, including Hwang Dae-yeon. It was followed by opening remarks from Sung Jun-mo, head of the Planning and Coordination Office. Shin Min-gyoo, former KNU president, and Donald Owens, founder, shared a video message. Yoon Moon-ki, superintendent of the Korea National District, gave an inspirational message. Other guests gave congratulatory messages, including Chairman Hong Sung-Hyun of Chungnam Provincial Assembly, Cheonan City Mayor Park Sang-don, Governor Kim Tae-Heum, and National Assemblyman Lee Jung-moon.

The ceremony was also celebrated with a video highlighting the institution's history from its inception to its growth and development. Sung Jun-mo shared the Vision 2030 Development Plan as a new leap toward 100 years of KNU. KNU President Kim Kyung-soo also declared KNU's vision of "Specializing in Smart Rehabilitation and Welfare," a vision that expands into the world beyond the university's and the region's boundaries.

KNU was founded on 14 September 1954 in Sajik-dong Jongno-gu, Seoul, as Nazare Bible School with the purpose of training pastors. On 27 May 1981, the school moved to its permanent home in Cheonan City, where it was accredited as a university in 1996.

The school has expanded, offering 12 academic disciplines. The four graduate schools have 30 majors and 14 departments. KNU is currently educating more than 6,000 students to serve as ministers and elders.

--Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific

Zambia boat ministry helps Nazarenes spread gospel

dlsperry94 — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 17:04:46 +0000

Zambia boat ministry helps Nazarenes spread gospel

dlsperry94 Thu, 12/12/2024 - 17:04

In the Lake Bangweulu region of Zambia, four large islands are home to about 150,000 people. Francis Mwansa, superintendent of the Zambia Luapula North District, was able to plant a few churches on three of the four islands in the early 2000s through work with JESUS film.

There had been an attempt to plant a church on the island of Lunga, but the work died due to transportation difficulty. Mwansa recognized the need for a boat to reach these far-flung populated islands. He proposed a boat and life jackets for the JESUS film team.

God provided a boat for this Zambian JESUS film team. The team can now plan and travel to help disciple old and new churches while key leaders are dispatched to follow up on discipleship programs to help strengthen these churches. The district and its 12 zones have more than 200 organized churches and preaching points.

The boat is not just used for the JESUS film and church planting. The local district uses the boat to provide training opportunities for Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI), Nazarene Missions International (NMI), and children and youth. This boat also enables the people on the island to travel to and be a part of district events without the usual difficulties.

The Church of the Nazarene is spreading rapidly in this area, but the district is asking for prayers for people to answer the call of God to become pastors. The district asks for Nazarenes to continue to lift their Zambian brothers and sisters in prayer as they plant churches in hard-to-reach places.

--Church of the Nazarene Africa Region