500 MILES OF DISTANCE
158 YEARS OF SERVICE
OUR CINCINNATI HERITAGE
Dr. David Fincher (Class of 1993) president@cccb.edu
The legacy of ministry education in Cincinnati and at Central Christian College of the Bible illustrates the power of teaching the Word and serving the Church. Together, we will work to equip, network, and resource ministry leaders for lifelong success.
In 1956, a small Missouri Bible college closed. Its trustees saw that northern Missouri still needed ministry education. In early 1957, some of them met in Moberly and asked John Hall, a graduate of Cincinnati Bible Seminary, to be the new school’s first president. His tasks were to find a faculty and create a curriculum. He took the train from his preaching ministry in Vandalia, Missouri, to Cincinnati for graduate courses. He and Professor Reuben Bullard designed the seal with the name Central Christian College of the Bible (CCCB).
Three recent Cincinnati graduates accepted the call to teach. Frank Watson and Gareth Reese drove from Cincinnati, Ohio, and Lloyd Pelfrey drove from Englewood, Tennessee, joining two professors already living in Missouri. Not only did these three men raise their families in Moberly, they never left.
In October 2019, the Trustees of Cincinnati Christian University (CCU) asked CCCB’s Trustees to help continue the legacy of Cincinnati ministry education. Twice a month since then, I have flown back and forth to Cincinnati, helping our Moberly team work with our employees there to plan the next incarnation of accredited ministry education in that region. On each trip, someone tells me another piece of this story that has been decades in the making. The next few pages will describe our current work in an area where so many ministers, missionaries, and biblical scholars were produced for 95 years. Will you join me in asking God to bring His favor and blessings to our efforts there?
DEVELOPING CHRISTIAN CHURCH LEADERSHIP
On December 12, 2019, Central Christian College of the Bible legally established the Christian Church Leadership Foundation (CCLF) as an Ohio LLC. On January 12, 2020, the founding trustees met in Covington, Kentucky, to begin oversight of the Foundation’s formation and finances.
Those trustees include Gene McCoy (Columbia, MO), Dr. David Roadcup (Hebron, KY), Dr. Phil Claycomb (Dallas, TX), Bob Hightchew (Verona, KY), Dr. John Derry (Dallas, TX), Shawn McMullen (Lawrenceburg, IN), and Dr. Larry Pechawer (Joplin, MO). Dr. David Fincher was asked to continue serving as the president of CCLF, which was then approved by the CCCB’s trustees.
Legally separate from Cincinnati Christian University, CCLF currently maintains and operates three ministry enterprises during the final days of CCU: the Christian Church Leadership Network (a ministry formerly pursued by the Center for Church Leadership), the Russell School of Ministry, and the George Mark Elliott Library.
These three entities are designed to continue working together within the CCLF. This will allow CCCB to operate these ministry enterprises in the Cincinnati region and build new leadership for the Christian church through a collaborative model with participating colleges and universities in various locations.
MULTIPLE MINISTRIES, ONE MISSION:
The Christian Church Leadership Foundation educates current & future church leaders in theories, practices, and doctrines that contribute to healthy, effective, and relevant ministry. Three ministry enterprises work together to support the Foundation’s mission.
• The CCL Network helps current Christian Church leaders thrive in ministry.
• The Russell School of Ministry produces future Christian Church leaders.
• The Library preserves and honors the Christian Church stories and doctrines of past leaders.
Read more information at www.CCCB.edu/cincinnati or facebook.com/
BY BRANDON BRADLEY
EQUIPPING, NETWORKING, AND RESOURCING MINISTRY LEADERS FOR LIFELONG SUCCESS
The Russell School of Ministry uses innovative courses and experiences to produce successful church leaders for the 21st century.
The Russell School of Ministry (RSM) is named to honor John Russell and Bob Russell, brothers who studied for the ministry in Cincinnati and faithfully served churches in Kentucky. Today, RSM trains men and women for ministry careers, uniquely combining a Bible college education in a metropolitan context with a university flavor.
Students in Cincinnati can earn a Certificate of Ministry or Diploma of Bible and Ministry from RSM. CCCB provides students with accredited Bible courses and online degrees that coordinate with the RSM curriculum. Students can take courses at Central or another partner institution that apply towards associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degrees.
Our VP of Academics, Dr. Jim Estep, is working with the RSM leadership team to integrate the academic programs and seek the necessary approvals to start an extension site in the Cincinnati region that will work closely with the Russell School of Ministry and the other CCLF entities. Together, Russell School of Ministry and Central Christian College of the Bible will challenge young adults, ministry staff, and midlife career-changers from the Cincinnati area to make ministry their lifelong calling. (www.rsministry.org)
The Christian Church Leadership Network provides strategic resources that empower church leaders to thrive in ministry.
This ministry was originally pursued by Cincinnati Christian University, with primary funding from The Lilly Endowment. With the closure of CCU and the end of Lilly’s support, CCCB undertook pursuing this ministry as the Christian Church Leadership Network, obtaining financial support, and operating it with continued financial sponsorship from The Solomon Foundation.
Under the direction of Dr. Tim Wallingford and his team of representatives, we will serve churches that already support CCCB. The CCL Network is growing to become a national network of churches and leaders experiencing healthy, effective, and relevant ministry. (www.CCL.network)
The George Mark Elliott Library provides access to collections of print & digital resources, contemporary & ancient artifacts, and special items from the heritage of Christian Churches & Churches of Christ.
This collection has been painstakingly collected and curated to benefit the entire Restoration Movement. We are working with the University to formulate a plan for the library’s future footprint and long-term location as the collection is being evaluated and prepared for relocation. At an appropriate time, there will be further information provided about the library’s composition, services, and resources for its regional and national patrons.
Congregations, families, and individuals who care about these ministries are needed to continue providing financial support beyond the startup funds raised in November-January. Your gifts to continue the legacy of ministry education in Cincinnati will provide ongoing resources to hire staff, lease property, and recruit students that will be trained starting in Fall of 2020. To set up a secure monthly gift to support the ongoing work in Cincinnati, visit cccb.edu/cincinnati or send your gift to CCCB, PO Box 14721, Cincinnati, OH 45250.
YEARS OF SERVICE
The staff, faculty, and trustees at Central are excited, intentional, and expectant about their work of developing servant-leaders for the church. They work tirelessly to provide a high-quality Biblical education for our students.
On January 31, they came together for a special appreciation luncheon to recognize several of their peers. This time of fellowship, food, and thankfulness celebrated what God has done and will continue to do through their efforts. Please join us in gratitude for His guidance and for the workers He is using.
ABOVE: Four senior students shared memorable experiences with the audience.
ANNIVERSARY EMPLOYEES
Pictured above from left to right:
• Richard Koffarnus (40 years)
• Jack Defreitas (10 years)
• Jason Poznich (5 years)
• Brandon Bradley (5 years)
• Walt Harper (5 years)
• Christina Nipper (5 years)
• Lara Lawrence (10 years)
• Veronica Hamblin (25 years)
Other Service Tenures (Not pictured):
• Kelly Harding (10 years)
• Brian Sevits (10 years)
• Ed Lewis (25 years)
• William Walton (40 years)
ATTEND A CONFERENCE, GROW YOUR FAITH
SOLID Shine
Thursday, April 2, 2020
Community” 4:00 Featured Workshop “Solid Answers About Biblical Sexuality” 6:30 Meal & Main Session
“Solid Answers About Faith”
Thursday, April 16, 2020
9:00 Special Pre-conference* 3:00 Informational Sessions
4:00 Featured Workshop
5:00 SOLID Workshops
6:30 Meal & Main Session
David Duncan Dr. Billy Strother
TOP RIGHT: Joshua Miller (Soccer Coach) and Lance Vestal (Trustee) get to know each other before the meal.
(Editor’s note: Bill Walton completed his 40-year Central teaching career in December 2019. At press time, he is with his family in Arizona recovering from a heart attack in early 2020.)
Rest”
Meal & Main Session “Living Beloved” 2:00 Informational Sessions 3:00 SHINE Workshops
4:00 Featured Workshop 5:00 SHINE Workshops 6:30 Meal & Main Session Dr. Karen Estep Tanya Rhine
Adults and teenagers of all ages are invited to attend these conferences designed to help men and women grow in their faith. Registration will begin an hour before the conference begins at the following prices: $20 for each adult, $10 for each teenager, and $200 for a reserved table for up to 8. A special offering will be taken at the main session of each conference
You may pre-registration online by visiting www.CCCB.edu/events, by emailing publicrelations@cccb.edu, or by calling 660-372-2512.
*The Christian Church Leadership Network presents RePosition: Strategic Shifts for Your Congregation. For more information, go to www.CCCB.edu/reposition.
Caleb Kaltenbach messygrace.org
Erin Hawley erinmhawley.com
SOLID Workshop Leaders
SHINE Workshop Leaders
SOLID
We need to make a way for more students to become mature in their faith and knowledge of Scripture. Then they can make a difference in the world around them - whatever location that might be and into whatever profession the Lord leads them. The solution lies in three major areas, and the twelve projects within those areas, all of which require additional funding. Central’s supporters are now getting involved to help meet these needs.
ECONOMIC SECURITY
In order to strengthen the College’s economic position, we will reduce debt obligations, grow enrollment, and increase gift income.
1. Reduction of Debt ($1 million) 2. Expanded Marketing ($250,000) 3. Scholarship Funding ($100,000)
4. Fundraising Expenses ($150,000)
Lift the Torch is a stewardship campaign to help fund key strategic initiatives identified in CCCB’s institutional plan for 2018-2022. This $2.8 million campaign (beyond regular gifting) started May 1, 2019. In the first seven months, $2 million of commitments were identified. In 2020, the remainder of the goal will be identified. Your gifts to this campaign will allow several important projects to be accomplished.
CAMPUS INFRASTRUCTURE
In order to better recruit and serve students, we will make key improvements to the College’s buildings and grounds.
5. Outdoor Campus Improvements ($250,000)
6. Residence Hall Improvements ($350,000)
7. Indoor Campus Improvements ($100,000)
PROGRAM IMPROVEMENTS
In order to help students prepare for ministry, new programs will be created to develop success skills and specific ministry experiences.
8. Scholars Program ($200,000)
9. Discipleship Program ($10,000)
10. Placement Program ($150,000)
11. Ministry Program Upgrades ($40,000)
12. New Degree Credentials ($200,000)
WILL YOU HELP LIFT THE TORCH?
As you prayerfully consider making your personal intention to Lift the Torch, please consider how you can give generously.
Most supporters make their donations through cash gifts. You can choose to give by check, credit card, or bank EFT with one-time, monthly, semi-annual, or annual gifts between now and 2022.
To set up your personal giving plan, visit us online at CCCB.edu/LIFT.
To discuss creative generosity options, contact Phil Marley, Vice President of Advancement. (philmarley@cccb.edu)
Torch
DR. BILLY STROTHER
Dean of Graduate Studies
Education:
Cincinnati Christian University (BA),
Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (MDiv., Ph.D.), Vanderbilt Divinity School
Teaching Experience:
Point University, Cincinnati Bible
Seminary, Kentucky Christian University
Ministry Experiences: Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Georgia
Billy’s favorite pastimes include dates with Carol, his wife and best friend, and spending time with two young grandsons. He also enjoys reading, writing, fishing, hunting, motorcycles, and muscle cars. Most of all, Billy loves the privilege of encouraging volunteer church leaders, mentoring ministers and missionaries, sharing how Jesus can heal the brokenhearted and rebuild shattered lives, and showing church leaders and members how God can use them in their churches and communities to reach their maximum potential for Christ.
Master of Arts in Ministry Leadership
Learning Formats
• Online: 8-week online courses offered in partnership through Hope International University give you flexible learning options.
• On-Campus: One-week intensive courses on CCCB’s campus in Moberly, MO, allow you to work collaboratively with your peers and network within your constituency.
• On-Site: Coaching and mentoring from experienced staff members gives you professional development within your own ministry location or at one of our host partners.
Intensive Courses & Faculty
• Discipleship & Christian Formation (Dr. David Roadcup)
• Change & Conflict Management (Dr. James Estep)
The Master of Arts in Ministry Leadership is designed to further develop servant-leaders beyond the four-year college experience, as well as form their spiritual lives as they make practical use of God’s Word while serving in the local church. As a student in this program, you will develop your personal leadership skills, be equipped to lead congregations toward health, and be capable of forming personal and pastoral development plans for your teams. The Master of Arts in Ministry Leadership is accredited by the Association of Biblical Higher Education.
• Dynamics of Healthy Congregations (Dr. Gary Johnson)
• Professional & Team Development (Dr. Billy Strother)
Program Information
• 36 credit hours = 2 years of study at 9 credits per semester
• Select master’s-level courses may be transferred from other graduate programs into the MA in Ministry Leadership.
Career Options
• Leader in a church, community, or social service agency
• Administrator of a nonprofit organization or missions agency
• Executive, manager, or director in nonprofit ministry
Affordable Access
• Total tuition & fees for the program are about $10,000.
• More information is at cccb.edu/graduate.
MARCH 6
APRIL 3
APRIL 17
JUNE 12
JULY 10 CCCB.EDU/VISIT
Meet our Newest Admissions Counselor:
(with Dr. Mark Ziese of Johnson University) December 29, 2020-January 11, 2021
MEMORIAL & HONORARY GIFTS
These people have been remembered from Oct. 2019-Feb. 2020 with a Memorial Gift to Central Christian College of the Bible.
Gary Bailey
Carnell & Sharon Bailey
Dick L. Baxter
Patricia Baxter
Roy Bingaman
Ilene Bingaman
Joan Brown
Darwin Brown
James Busick
Charlotte Busick
Clarence & Etta Cain Allen, Lynn (Cain), & Lucille Vest
Margaret Camp
Timothy & Deborah Arndorfer, Debra BaxBoyce, Daniel Camp, Clint Camp & Barb Day, Len & Mona Camp, Christian Prison Ministry of Missouri, Roger & Marie Dake, Donald & Jill Distler, Don & Collene Engle, Michael & Linda Gless, Linda Kinnamon, Karlos & Doris Prosser, Jim & Patsy Randall, Kenny & Nancy Schetzler, Lee Ann Stribling, Clorah Wiegers
Dale Carr
Christine Carr
Gerald & Aldena Corbin
Carroll & Karen Kakac
Willadeane Crist
James & Carol Jamison
Charles Crocker
Janice Crocker
Ronnie Dennis
Linda Dennis
Jonice Egbert
Eugene Egbert
Charles Embree
Joyce Embree
Walter & Charlotte Fagen
Wayne & Connie Eggleston, Richard & Ann Kerkove
Nancy Fay
Elton Fay, Michael & Pamela Nichols
Charles & Mildred Fordyce
Rick & Jan Fordyce
Fred Green
Leland & Marilyn Tippett
Johanne Haines
Curtis Farr
Glen Harpster
Shirley Harpster
Jeff Holder
Juna Wilt
Kenneth & Marion Hoschouer
Jim & Connie Gilmore
Don Kelly
Scott & Lisa Kelly, Ruth Kelly
Mary Kay Miller Kropf
Janet Boley
Norma Lang
Lorraine McCully
John Leinbaugh
Sandy Leinbaugh
Jim Lincoln
Marilyn Lincoln
LeRoy Lunsford
Ed Lunsford
Alfred N Mackey
Maryanna Mackey
Roberta McDaniel
Jerry & Donna Myers
Glen Mitchell
Ray Harman, Victor & Evelyn Knowles
Dr. Orval M Morgan
David & Linda Wilson
Doris M Morrow
Cheryl Dye
Don & Norma Payne
Michael & Julie Foust
Gilbert Pearson
Robert & Brenda Thoman
Robert Neal Perry
Michael Perry
Alice Pittman
Charlie Pittman
Gregory Pitts
Andy Barnauskas, Kellie Christensen, Brenda Cox, Larry & Dawn Dennis, Jeannine Geans, Phil & Theresa Marley, Tabitha Olson, Bob Schlicksop, Brad Schneider, Neal Schumacher, Kurt & Marianne Smith, Norman & Phyllis
Smith, Patricia Geans Turksky, Phillip Whitehouse, Eddie Wright
Brandon Puckett
Dell & Mary Lusby
Lillie Railey
Martha Railey
Rodney & Lelah Randall
Roger & Janet Denton, Tim & Georgia
Randall, Terry & Linda Spence
Mary Jane Rankin
Havasau Christian Church
Jack Richardson
Keith Holzkopf
HERE IS MY DONATION TO CCCB
Your gracious gift to CCCB helps us recruit more students, teach Biblical truth, and minister to churches. Your check made payable to CCCB can be mailed with this response piece in the enclosed envelope. You may also give securely online at CCCB.edu/give or CCCB.edu/cincinnati.
Use my gift for: Expenses in Moberly Expenses in Cincinnati Other:
Other Instructions:
Help me start giving monthly.
Keep my gift anonymous.
Tell me more about the LIFT the Torch campaign.
If you would like to make an honorary or memorial gift, it will be indicated to the honoree (or family) and recognized in the next issue of theTORCH.
My gift is in Memory/Honor (circle one) of this honoree: Please send an acknowledgment to:
Bob Schofield
David & Joyce Graves
Robert W Seath
Dolores Seath
Shirlie L Curtis Sergeant
Mark & Robin Gerton
Joe Carson Smith
Paul & Juanita Hall
Tom, Goldie, Leo, & Jennie Spurling
Donald & Judy Hampton
Deborah Stock
Joyce Stock
Stephanie Sumption
Dwight & Martha Savage, Ron & Diane Yearns
Dr. Robert O’Weaver
David & Linda Wilson
Douglas Wilson
Karen Wilson
Lee R Wolfe
Patty Wolfe
Mary Wolfe
Jason Wolfe
Matthew Wolfe
Jason Wolfe
Bob Ham & Debra Ham Zuleger
Virginia Trusty
These people have been honored from Oct. 2019-Feb. 2020 with an Honorary Gift to Central Christian College of the Bible.
Dan Lowry
Keith & Carol Sproat
Leon Moore
Keith & Carol Sproat
Taylor, Tianna, & Tressa Terry
Doug & Lisa Terry
Gareth & Kathleen Reese
Keith Kelso, Rita Carter
Judy Mallett
Curtis Farr
Lloyd Pelfrey
Rita Carter
Don Stoll
Ryan & Lori Eidson
Marilyn Mehaffy
Madison Park Christian Church
62 Years of CCCB
William & Norma Hayden
