Church of the Nazarene

In Memoriam: 26 July 2024

dlsperry94 — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 22:20:40 +0000

In Memoriam: 26 July 2024

dlsperry94 Thu, 07/25/2024 - 22:20

The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received 22-26 July 2024.

Teresa Sailors, 75, of Owensboro, Kentucky, passed away 18 July 2024. She was the wife of Jan Sailors, a retired minister who served in Kentucky, Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, Texas, New Mexico, Louisiana, and Kentucky.

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

Colorado church provides support for local mothers

dlsperry94 — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 21:49:54 +0000

Colorado church provides support for local mothers

dlsperry94 Thu, 07/25/2024 - 21:49

Cortez Church of the Nazarene in Colorado hosts and organizes the community’s lone support group for mothers and children. Thanks to the group, several young families have joined the church.

Twice a month, the Mommas and Littles group meets at Cortez Nazarene. Through grants from a local organization and the USA/Canada Region’s Blessing Our Community initiative, the church is able to pay childcare workers and provide snacks, coffee, and a door prize for the mothers.

Women from the church, including mothers with young children who can connect through current shared experiences and mothers with grown children, have volunteered to pass on wisdom to those who are new to the journey of parenthood.

Some of those conversations have led to deeper discussions about faith in God and the church. Pastor JanElle Hoffman said one family even started coming to the church as a result.

“We try to make it as nice an event as possible,” Hoffman said. “From that, organically, conversations have come up about faith and life, and that’s exactly what we want to happen.”

Nataly* began attending the Mommas and Littles group at the beginning of 2024. While she doesn’t attend Cortez Nazarene, she has noticed the group’s impact on her.

“Some [of the attendees] are going through the same things, and some moms already went through those [situations],” Nataly said. “I don’t worry so much about some things because now I know they are normal and how to deal with them. I don’t feel alone as a mom.”

The group began after Hoffman learned a local man and his young wife would soon leave the area. The man explained his wife had just had a baby, and there was nothing in Cortez regarding support or community for mothers.

“I remembered [my own] mom years and how important it was to have MOPS (Mother of Preschoolers) and those connections with other moms,” Hoffman said.

As pastor of Cortez Nazarene, Hoffman wanted to bless the community, and the seed that was planted by that conversation began to take root. Hoffman started asking around about groups focused on providing connection and support for moms.

“There was zip,” Hoffman joked. “Zero.”

Cortez is a city of roughly 9,000 people and is the largest community in the southwest corner of Colorado. Due to the proximity to multiple national parks, the town relies on the tourism industry. And while plenty of services are available for residents of Cortez, it surprised Hoffman that there was no support group for mothers.

“If there’s not that opportunity for connection, the ripples that it has throughout the community can be pretty devastating,” Hoffman said. “If a mom is not in a good headspace or her mental health is not good, it’s going to impact her kids, her marriage, and ultimately the community at large.”

So Cortez Nazarene set out to support moms like Nataly.

“We can show that we care,” Hoffman said. “We can show that this is a need that must be met. If we can help meet that need, that gives us a place to speak life and speak the gospel into people’s lives. That’s what we want to do.”

*Full name omitted for privacy.

Casa Nazarena de Publicaciones launches new website, resources

dlsperry94 — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 19:43:30 +0000

Casa Nazarena de Publicaciones launches new website, resources

dlsperry94 Thu, 07/25/2024 - 19:43

The Foundry Publishing announced the launch of a new website for Casa Nazarena de Publicaciones. The new website, accessible at casanazarena.com, has a user-friendly interface and enhanced features that provide convenient purchasing options and updated information about Spanish resources.

Pastors, leaders, and laypeople can explore the site, which is filled with Bible study materials, pastoral resources, the newest adult curriculum materials, and various other resources for Spanish-speaking ministries.

With its ongoing commitment to sharing the holiness message with Spanish-speaking congregations, Casa Nazarena de Publicaciones, in partnership with The Foundry Publishing, has released a Spanish version of the 2024 Advent devotional, Transformacion en la Espera. This devotional will encourage readers to experience God’s presence as well as inviting opportunities for transformation through the Advent season.

Alongside that devotional is a Pastor’s Resource download, also in Spanish, filled with sermon outlines, graphics for social media and PowerPoint slides, and more.

“We are delighted to launch our new website and release our new Advent resources for Spanish-speaking individuals,” said Mark Brown, president of The Foundry Publishing. “There is a need for increased resources for the growing number of Spanish-speaking congregations in the U.S. and Canada. Our newest initiatives reflect our ongoing dedication to providing meaningful resources that foster spiritual growth and enrich the lives of the people in these congregations.”

Learn more about the newest Advent resources and browse other titles at casanazarena.com.

--The Foundry Publishing

Panay District NYI camp inspires young people to be 'Overcomers'

dlsperry94 — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 15:34:48 +0000

Panay District NYI camp inspires young people to be 'Overcomers'

dlsperry94 Thu, 07/25/2024 - 15:34

The Panay District on the Panay island in the Philippines gathered for the annual youth camp on 25-27 June 2024. About 400 youth from the Panay area gathered at the Progreso Elementary School ground for this exciting event. The District Nazarene Youth International Council, led by Carl Stephen Beatingo, organized the event with the theme "Overcomer: Turning Spiritual Compromises into Spiritual Victories."

The camp immersed participants in powerful sessions, engaging activities, and heartfelt worship experiences, which brought revival to the campers. The message was that children of God can overcome the world through faith and become victors and conquerors in Jesus' name.

The first day set the tone with an opening ceremony featuring interactive icebreakers and team-building activities. Participants bonded and got to know each other while creating banners and presenting group cheers. The evening ended with a worship session and a message from David Rey Era, a Central Philippine Nazarene College student, emphasizing the importance of recognizing spiritual compromises.

"It's easy to settle for less," he said, "but God calls us to overcome, rise above our weaknesses, and turn them into strengths."

The second day focused on equipping the youth with tools to overcome spiritual challenges. Plenary session presentations included topics like Christian identity, by Eden Rei Babao, and Christian purity, by Maybel Basa, with practical insights and strategies. After the sessions, campers enjoyed basketball and volleyball games.

During the evening service, Eldie Dialing highlighted the importance of strengthening our faith by knowing and serving the Lord. The evening service concluded with church performances, including spoken poetry, skits, and choir presentations.

On the final day, attendees focused on commitment and action. The highlight was the Amazing Race, which had several stations where participants faced challenges in testing their teamwork, faith, and problem-solving skills.

The evening worship concluded with District Superintendent Medanny Punsalan's powerful message that urged participants to deepen their relationship with the Lord. Their commitment peaked as Leo Mahanlud and the pastors prayed for the campers' dedication to the Lord. The night concluded with a Praise Jam led by worship teams from different churches.

The participants returned home not only carrying memories but also with renewed purpose and determination. The camp's impact extended beyond the three days, promising lasting changes in their spiritual journeys. The event was a powerful reminder that no spiritual compromise is too great to overcome, and all children of God can turn their struggles into victories.

Church of the Nazarene in Luxembourg continues to thrive

dlsperry94 — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 15:09:14 +0000

Church of the Nazarene in Luxembourg continues to thrive

dlsperry94 Tue, 07/23/2024 - 15:09

The Church of the Nazarene in Luxembourg is one of the youngest Nazarene churches in the world. This small church was founded by Antonio Cardoso when he moved to Luxembourg about seven years ago with a big dream: to plant a church in a country where people often live comfortable lives and God’s presence can be forgotten or even considered unnecessary.

The journey began with Sunday services held in Cardoso’s apartment, attended by just a few families. Despite the many challenges, including the lack of a permanent place to gather and the absence of a full-time pastor, God’s grace and glory shone brightly. The congregation experienced firsthand what a true church is: the Body of Christ is comprised of its people. Even without a dedicated building, the Holy Spirit moved powerfully within the community.

The church’s resilience was tested early on. When Cardoso's apartment lacked space for the growing number of attendees, a Catholic priest kindly offered the use of a small chapel. However, this arrangement was short-lived, and the congregation was again without a physical home. For a year and a half, they met virtually on Zoom. This period of online worship was a testament to their adaptability and faith as they continued to grow and support one another despite the physical distance.

Reflecting Luxembourg’s multicultural nature, the church strives to embrace diversity. Worship services are held in multiple languages, and the congregation engages in various activities with Christians from different countries, fostering a spirit of koinonia—Christian fellowship or communion. This multicultural approach is a cornerstone of the church’s identity, helping to create a welcoming and inclusive community for all.

One of the highlights of the church’s calendar is its family camp, renowned for its multicultural ambiance, good food, and great fellowship. Last year, this camp was the site of a significant milestone: the church held its first baptism, celebrating the faith of two young people.

Additionally, the church found a permanent location, and the youth have started a Bible study on Zoom. The study has attracted participants from different countries united by membership in the same church.

The Nazarene church in Luxembourg has thrived through God’s grace and the dedication of its members. Embracing a multicultural mission and celebrating significant milestones, this young church continues to grow and inspire. It is a testament to the enduring power of community, faith, and the Holy Spirit, embodying what it truly means to be the Body of Christ.

--Church of the Nazarene Eurasia Region

In Memoriam: 19 July 2024

dlsperry94 — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 20:35:39 +0000

In Memoriam: 19 July 2024

dlsperry94 Thu, 07/18/2024 - 20:35

The following is a weekly listing of Nazarene ministers and leaders who recently went home to be with the Lord. Notices were received 15-19 July 2024.

Hortence Balibanga, 54, of Yaounde, Cameroon, passed away 16 July 2024. She was a missionary, serving the Church of the Nazarene in Cameroon since 2018. She is survived by her husband, Jacques.

Jimmie Chapman, 86, of Pegram, Tennessee, passed away 13 July 2024. He was a retired minister who served in Tennessee. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Chapman, who passed away in 2021.

Grover Deskins, 90, of Hockessin, Delaware, passed away 4 July 2024. He was a chaplain, evangelist, and minister who served in Pennsylvania and Delaware. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gladys Deskins.

Debra Fightmaster, 70, of Hamilton, Ohio, passed away 9 July 2024. She was the wife of Jonathan Fightmaster, a retired minister who served in Ohio, Indiana, and Kansas.

Ronald Miller, 84, of Hesston, Pennsylvania, passed away on 10 July 2024. He was a retired minister who served in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. He is survived by his wife, Ruby Miller.

Loretta Reinhart, 83, of Canton, Ohio, passed away 9 July 2024. She was the wife of Larry Reinhart, a retired minister and educator who served in Ohio and Illinois.

--Compiled by Nazarene News

Celebrating the life, ministry of Hortence Balibanga

dlsperry94 — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 19:47:30 +0000

Celebrating the life, ministry of Hortence Balibanga

dlsperry94 Thu, 07/18/2024 - 19:47

Hortence Balibanga, 54, of Yaounde, Cameroon, passed away 16 July 2024. She was a missionary, serving the Church of the Nazarene in Cameroon since 2018.

“On behalf of the whole Global Missions family, I want to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Hortence on her sudden passing,” said Global Missions Director Jim Ritchie. “She was a wonderful missionary, and her loss will be keenly felt in our Global Missions family. She leaves a powerful legacy of love and faithfulness to Jesus and his church. We are so thankful for her ministry and service and we continue to pray for her dear husband and family at this time. We also thank our Lord Jesus for the salvation and eternal reward, which our sister now enjoys in his nearer presence.”

Hortence was born 24 September 1969 and raised in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo. She met her husband and ministry partner, Jacques Balibanga, in 1985, and they married in August 1989.

Hortence and Jacques have served in a variety of roles in Africa.

"Mrs. Hortense was a devoted wife and mother, a prayer warrior, and an unwavering supporter of our pastors and leaders' families," said Africa Regional Director Dany Gomis. "She was always present, offering her strength and wisdom in both joyous and difficult times. A gifted counsellor, she was there for anyone in need of guidance."

Her heart was to reach orphans, and she had a passion for women’s ministry. She especially enjoyed working with pastors’ wives and vulnerable women. Her ministry efforts focused on those areas as well as compassionate ministries as she and Jacques worked to continue to grow the church in Cameroon.

Jacques has been a Sunday school teacher, worship leader, Bible school teacher, and worked in district offices. He has served as a minister for over 20 years and spent 18 years as a district superintendent.

Both Hortence and Jacques had a passion for church planting. Together, they planted churches in Rwanda and Burundi and have developed the work of the Church of the Nazarene in Cameroon since 2018. They were commissioned as missionaries in 2022.

Hortence was preceded in death by her son, Lebon. Hortence is survived by her husband, Jacques; sons Peter, Gedeon, Pascal, John, Jonathan, and Josue; and daughters Merylou, Carla, and Abigail.

Missions team makes impact in Philippines churches, communities

dlsperry94 — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 19:08:36 +0000

Missions team makes impact in Philippines churches, communities

dlsperry94 Thu, 07/18/2024 - 19:08

More than 15 students and leaders from Point Loma Nazarene University embarked on a missions trip to the Philippines in May, partnering with local church leaders and Nazarenes. The team of students, led by Nazarene Missions Teams coordinators Kevin and Janet Wilkins, spread God’s love and served in various communities.

The team visited and served in several locations.

The team spent four days with Pastor Jeffrey at Isla Verde Church of the Nazarene. This young, passionate, fun-loving pastor leads this missional church and has made deep connections in the community. Six others from the Southern Tagalog District joined the Point Loma team, and deep bonds were formed. It was a beautiful place but a challenging context, as there was no electricity without a generator and limited water supply.
At Gintong Aral and River of Life Churches of the Nazarene, the team worked in the preschool, participated in a community cleanup day, met with community leaders, and helped at a medical mission day. They led Sunday school and enjoyed a fantastic worship service and a youth worship jam session.
At Shechem, a children’s home for kids rescued from online sexual exploitation, the team spent time with the children and learned about the trauma-informed care they receive while learning about the love of Jesus.
At GMA Church of the Nazarene and Lingap Bata Child Development Center, the team was welcomed with song, encouragement, gifts, and prayer. They learned about poverty through personal homestays and participated in a prayer walk to the local schools.

The church leaders thank the PLNU team for the love they displayed over various ministry participation in Philippines Churches of the Nazarene.

--Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific Region

Arizona church sews thousands of dresses annually for young girls

dlsperry94 — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 18:46:47 +0000

Arizona church sews thousands of dresses annually for young girls

dlsperry94 Thu, 07/18/2024 - 18:46

Young girls around the world are receiving dresses and the message that God loves them thanks to Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene's "Dress a Girl" sewing group. What originally started in 2012 as the passion project of a small group of women at Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene has grown to 100 people.

According to the group's leader, Sandra Moore, the Oro Valley Dress a Girl group has made over 15,000 dresses that have been delivered to girls across the Africa, Asia-Pacific, Mesoamerica, and South America regions. Moore notes that it's the first time some children have ever received or worn brand-new clothes.

"The children love it," Moore said. "It's a big event. They each get special attention. We put the dresses on over their other clothes, make them feel special, and then pray over them. It's heartwarming."

The team began in 2012 after a couple of the church members heard of the Dress a Girl Around the World organization, with whom Oro Valley works. Initially, the church made the dresses and sent them to a local distributor, who found missions teams worldwide to send them to. However, in 2018, as the quantity of dresses and the team grew, they were challenged by the church's then missions pastor, Bill Graham, to take the dresses themselves through missions trips organized by the Oro Valley church.

The core team of 100 meets monthly with Moore, who shares highlights of the church's distributions on various missions trips around the world. Together, they pray for each other, pray over the dresses, and continue sewing. The group is intergenerational and consists of young adults with kids and retirees.

The church also began a sew-a-thon, held annually on the first Saturday in November. In 2023, over 400 women from around the community and church participated. Moore said some sew-a-thon attendees have joined the church, thanks to the activity. In a single day, the group puts together more than 1,500 dresses.

"The ladies there working are the happiest," Moore said. "They're thrilled to be part of something bigger than themselves."

Despite being a member of another church in the area, Lee Ette Jungblom attended last year's sew-a-thon and brought her entire quilting group along. She said they have already blocked out 2024's date to make sure to participate again.

"To be a part of something so beautiful for the Lord and these sweet children we were sewing for is overwhelming," Jungblom said.
According to current missions pastor David Hillis, missions are at the heart of everything the Oro Valley church does. He estimates 400-500 people from the congregation will go on a missions trip in 2024, spread out over 14-15 different teams. Their passion for missions comes directly from the church’s mission statement.

“If we’re not engaging people right where they are with the gospel — locally and globally — if we’re not empowering our people to be the ones doing that, then we’re not going to continue to be a church that thrives,” Hillis said. “The moment we turn inward and we focus on ourselves and what we need and not focus outward, we’re gonna slowly start dying as a church.”

More than 800 Peruvians attend National Congress of Nazarene Women

dlsperry94 — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 18:16:55 +0000

More than 800 Peruvians attend National Congress of Nazarene Women

dlsperry94 Thu, 07/18/2024 - 18:16

More than 800 women from Peru met in Chiclayo for the National Congress of Nazarene Women of Peru, held 28-30 June. The event was organized by the Ministry of Women with the motto "Renewed for the Race."

Delegations representing various areas, such as the mountains, the coast, and the jungle, paraded into the auditorium in a colorful display. A delegation from the districts of Awajun communities in the Amazonas region also performed in their native languages.

A worship team comprised of women from churches near the event location led the attendees in song.

Some of the topics covered in the plenary sessions and workshops were “Principles of Blessing,” “Pastors' Wives,” “My Mental Health and Myself,” “The Power of Forgiveness in my Life,” and “Stress in my Life and How to Overcome It,” among others.

In addition to the worship and workshop activities, medical professionals helped set up diabetes and blood pressure screening for women.

“It has been gratifying to see how women have decided to be stewards of their spiritual and physical health,” said Dr. Rosanna Serrano, a surgeon.

The congress concluded with the celebration of the Holy Communion followed by a time of testimony. The women shared what they learned and said it was worth the cost to be present, some of them having traveled several days since Peru is huge geographically and includes 16 districts.

“As women, there are often situations that can destabilize us or paralyze us, forgetting that God has placed something special in us, an invisible crown that often seems like it can fall from our heads,” Serrano said. “But we must take the time to stop and place the crown on our head, allowing God to renew our strength to continue the race ahead of us.”

“This congress has been a renewal for me as a woman, as a daughter of God, and as a professional,” Serrano continued. “I long expectantly to see how my sisters continue walking upright every day, renewing themselves in the strength of our Lord.”

Bety Espinoza, the national coordinator of Women’s Ministries, was grateful for the support they received from the Peru North Marcial Banda superintendent for the use of district facilities and many others who helped piece together the various parts of the congress.
“As a national leader, it has been a great and beautiful experience for me to see the hand of God at all times for the realization of this congress,” Espinoza said.

--Church of the Nazarene South America