April 2024

Nº 68

CONNECTIONS AP RIL 2 024

THE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ISSUE Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence (AI), in life, work and ministry

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INSIDE

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BEYOND AI EUREKA

PLASTER CRACKS

Tony Visconti

Jim Crispin

College Church, meet AI.

Jim takes another look at the cracks in his plaster walls.

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NAVIGATING THE RISKS OF GENERATIVE AI IN THE CHURCH

GLAD TIDINGS OF GREAT JOY

Eric Ollila

Victor Gordeuk

Generative AI, meet Wisdom and Discernment.

An unlikely medical treatment means glad tidings for children in Africa.

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CHRISTIANS IN THE AGE OF TECHNOPHOBIA

DAFFODILS

Daniel Losey

Christians, meet AI.

Esther Waldrop

No Easter lamb on Esther’s table.

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FEATURES From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

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Gallery Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

A LEGACY OF GENEROSITY

Our Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Nancy Taylor

Nancy and her husband soak up the effects of living in the shadow of generosity.

ArtSpace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Opportunities for Prayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Milestones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 CHURCH LIFE: April Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Looking Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Under the Radar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 At the Bookstall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

19 LIVING FORWARD BY FAITH Virginia Hughes

A sneak peek of the children’s choirs musical.

24 COINS FOR CARING NETWORK Kara Beth Vance

Start saving your coins.

On the Cover: a partial image of (im)mortal coils,

a digital collage by David Sobatka. See full image on page 9.

Sanctity of Human Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Giving Joy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Our Pastors, Directors and Residents: Josué Alvarado, pastoral resident | Matt Anthony, pastoral resident | Cheryce Berg, director of children’s ministries Roger Burgess, pastor of visitation | Felipe Chamy, pastoral resident | Julie Clemens, director of disability ministries | Erik Dewar, pastor of worship and music | Baxter Helm, high school pastor | Dan Hiben, middle school pastor Tim Hollinger, technology director | Jim Johanik, pastor of evangelism | Ann Karow, human resources director | Howard Kern, facilities director | Bruce Main, pastor of visitation | Josh Maurer, pastor of discipleship | Curt Miller, missions pastor | Josh Moody, senior pastor | Richard Moomjian, pastoral resident Ben Panner, college pastor | Mindy Rynbrandt, director of women’s ministries John Seward, executive pastor | Nancy Singer, director of administration and finance | Wil Triggs, director of communications Our Council of Elders: David Bea | Mark Berg | Mark Bradley | Howard Costley, chair | Steve Ivester | Glenn Kosirog | Josh Moody, senior pastor | Jeff Oslund Roger Sandberg | David Setran | Jeremy Taylor, secretary | Chad Thorson Brian Wildman, vice-chair

Connections is a monthly newsletter published for and about the people of College Church. Send news items and suggestions to: connections@ college-church.org. Keep Connections in mind to promote a community event to the College Church family. Send event information by the following dates: For the May issue: April 9 | For the June issue: May 9 | For the July issue: June 9

332 E. Seminary, Wheaton, IL 60187 (630) 668-0878 | www.college-church.org

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CONTRIBUTORS JIM CRISPIN

has been both a member of College Church and husband to his wife, Kim, for 30 years. Kim and Jim have two grown children and two young granddaughters.

Jim appreciates Men’s Bible Study, and he rides his bike to Sunday morning church in all but the worst weather.

NANCY TAYLOR

has attended College Church since coming with a friend to HYACKs, which also happens to be where she met her husband, Jeremy. She currently serves in Kids Korner and the nursery.

KARA BETH VANCE VICTOR GORDEUK

loves being husband to Larissa and dad to five children. He is devoted to the Greek Adult Community and enjoys the 8 a.m. worship service. He is also professor of medicine at University of Illinois at Chicago.

VIRGINIA HUGHES

has served in many ways over the years, mainly those related to children and the deaconess board ministries.

At home, she is usually working in the garden or writing. She and her husband, Roger, have three grown daughters and often drive up to Ann Arbor (MI) to visit their grandson.

DANIEL LOSEY

is a missionary kid from Asia and works as a software developer with Biblica building an AI Bible translation CoPilot.

Daniel has attended College Church since his freshman year at Wheaton College in 2022.

ERIC OLLILA

is a partner at Deloitte & Touche LLP and works with some of the firm’s largest multi-national clients. He serves on the Digital Transformation and Innovation leadership team, responsible for the development, adoption and change management of innovative technologies, including generative AI.

currently serves a mentor with the College Group discipleship team and is actively involved with the Sanctity of Human Life Task Force. She works in Wheaton as a financial planner. Kara Beth continues to “count macros” as part of her recent interest in nutrition and weightlifting.

TONY VISCONTI

serves at College Church as the digital ministry manager since November of 2019. He lives in Winfield with his wife, Kristin, who also serves College Church by teaching music in the Stars Disability Ministry. They have two boys, Pearson (7) and Isaiah (3).

ESTHER WALDROP

enjoys hearing about God’s stories of faithfulness from our missionary family.

She and her husband, John, have served the church in Ukraine, Czech Republic, the Middle East, and come next month, in the Philippines.

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F ROM A I T O BA BY B O T T L E S WIL TRIGGS | EDITOR

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ince 2024 began, Connections has had a few articles focusing on a certain theme. January was new beginnings and February was people of influence.

March was Easter. This month it’s Artificial Intelligence (AI). I wasn’t sure how the articles would land on this topic, and I am really pleased and intrigued by each one and the impact of all three together. Thanks to Tony Visconti, Daniel Losey and Eric Olilla for their contributions. I encourage everyone to read all three perspectives.

Sometimes innovation can surprise, doing even more than we dare dream. That was the case with Victor Gordeuk’s experience in his research to help Africa’s children overcome a disease that was killing them in large numbers. God’s created order exceeded expectations.

Esther Waldrop’s reflection on daffodils takes us in a different and inspiring direction.

I can hear the words of Jesus, where daffodils are like lilies so “Even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.” Jim Crispin’s work on repairing plaster and other projects in the home provides an interesting companion piece.

Nancy Taylor’s “Legacy of Generosity” gives each of us fodder to consider afresh generosity in our lives and our church. It also helps to kick off our Gospel Now Project, which we will be hearing more about in Josh’s sermon series that begins April 14. The anonymous Giving Joy article at the end of the issue provides a thought-provoking perspective on giving as well.

It’s children’s choirs musical time, and the children will perform “Forward by Faith,” a musical retelling of College Church’s history. It’s an inspirational work, penned by Virginia Hughes who also wrote the feature about it in this month’s issue. Coins for Caring Network, another perennial outreach, is gearing up now for another baby bottle collection. You can read about it in Kara Beth Vance’s article.

I praise God for our writers, and for the beauty so evident in the current ArtSpace gallery “Awe+Wonder.” We stand witness to the creative goodness of God who is worthy of all praise.

As we move into spring and look ahead to summer, let us live afresh the words of Psalm 71:22-24: I will praise you with the harp for your faithfulness, my God; I will sing praise to you with the lyre, Holy One of Israel. My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you—I whom you have delivered. My tongue will tell of your righteous acts all day long, for those who wanted to harm me have been put to shame and confusion.

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Beyond AI Eureka Course Settings and Safeguards Tony Visconti

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have a fondness for the eureka! moment. That moment filled with the thrill of understanding, a release from confusion, frustration and limitations. And after comes the speed, the delight of moving quickly (cognitively speaking), running, and even flying where humans could not even walk before. This is the imagery AI product owners want you to have in mind when their “ABC Bot” comes to mind. AI powered products predict a future where machine learning completely reshapes our work, commerce and relationships. And yet few products are tied to so many potential existential concerns.

smaller than some might imagine. For example, ChatGPT 3.5 was trained on 570 GB of data obtained from books, web texts, Wikipedia, articles and other pieces of writing on the internet. For context, laptops typically start with a minimum of 512 GB of storage.

It’s crucial that we examine the future we may be racing towards, and along the way, I hope I can impart a couple tools for engaging with the moment at hand.

AI systems are trained to produce a desired outcome in partnership with humans. Humans provide feedback to AI throughout the development process. After all, someone must originally determine what an AI system is objectively aiming for.

Finally, AI models aim to generalize well beyond their training data so that they can perform accurately on unseen data.

For starters let’s grab hold of some basic concepts related to AI. Let’s start with the acronym itself—AI stands for Artificial Intelligence. On some levels, the term has been quickly adopted into our vocabulary to describe any tech widget involving an impressive level of automation or complex calculations.

In another sense it describes tools that mimic humanlike responses in terms of their speed, accuracy or level of creativity.

It is a struggle to nail down a concise definition of Artificial Intelligence because we collectively have not come to an agreement as a society regarding what intelligence is.

There are, however, some common themes among companies who design systems that people label AI. Numerous AI products within the realm of machine learning undergo iterative training utilizing datasets and the iterative process of trial and error. These training datasets might be 2

AI systems analyze data to identify patterns, constructing a sophisticated model that enables them to generate responses or make decisions. They breakdown something complex like video into something more digestible such as collections of pixels over time.

While these tools are not magical, they are extremely complex and powerful and I, like many others, found myself ruminating over the emergence of AI over this last year. The quote from Spiderman’s Uncle Ben often comes to mind, “With great power comes great responsibility.”

But was that an Uncle Ben original? Hadn’t dozens if not hundreds of authors said something similar throughout recorded history? Perhaps that would be a good question for the now archaic Google. And yet as I considered reaching for my phone another question comes to mind: What does such repetitive and instant-answer seeking interaction with a device lead us to and conversely away from?

Some might describe my digital ministry manager role at College Church as pseudo tech-evangelist. One where I help our staff embrace innovative technology in an ever more efficient pursuit of converting eyeballs and attention into healthy gospel activity. Even if I wanted such a role, I am all too skeptical of technology to be employed as its evangelist. What I am finding is that a healthy dose of skepticism and contemplation are critical to my role as we engage with new technology.

we consider how, why, and when we use technology, a time to reflect on how well technology strengthens our values or detract from them?

• Increased reliance and trust in machines.

• Novel solutions but also new problems.

WHAT ARE SOME SAFEGUARDS TO PUT IN PLACE AS WE EXPLORE INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY?

As with any indirect tool we leverage to support gospel proclamation we must contemplatively engage in how it will shape us. The tools we use do indeed greatly shape us and as we reach out, shape the type of Christianity, the type of gospel, to which we win people.

Engage our brains first and AI later. The cognitive tasks we relegate to AI may not be so easy to pick back up should we need them. In practice this may look like generating first drafts on your own or doing initial brainstorming sessions without the assistance of AI.

Let’s contemplate and examine our Christian caution and excitement as we race towards a physical reality increasingly shaped by machines.

Make screen time family time, finding a balance between the amount of time screens are used in isolation versus collectively as a group.

WHAT ARE WE HEADING TOWARDS?

Connect to each other. How many of us have a subject matter expert in our life? Dads who always seem to know the next step in tackling projects. A high school friend who we can rely on for solid March Madness picks. A sister who is a nurse. We ask our experts questions, and conversations naturally expand beyond the initial requests, we communicate that we care about someone else’s opinion and value their experience.

• A greater focus (if that was possible) on speed and efficiency.

A greater expectation that answers in life should come fast.

• Increased opportunities to introduce non-Christians to our

God who longs for relationship and who despises loneliness; to Jesus who calls us friends, and offers a different path through life, a slow and contemplative path. Jesus can be found in the hustle and bustle of life and yet is no less present in the deep valleys of silence and longing.

• A reality where regardless of our level with technological engagement, we have a need to carve out time and space where we do not engage our devices. Time and space where

Engage with God first and significantly and AI later. Don’t toss aside our reliance or friendship with the Holy Spirit who leads us in all understanding. We already have an all-knowing Friend and Father; he has all the answers and knows how best and at what pace to reveal knowledge to us.

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Navigating the Risks of Generative AI in the Church ERIC OLLILA

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enerative Artificial Intelligence (generative AI) has garnered significant attention within the technological landscape, offering accessible, transformative potential across various domains, including the church. It presents a new opportunity for ministries to use technology as a force multiplier in evangelistic efforts, pastoral care and community outreach, among others.

While its capabilities to mimic human speech and generate content have sparked excitement, generative AI also brings a host of ethical considerations and risks that demand careful navigation within Christendom.

UNDERSTANDING GENERATIVE AI: A PRIMER

Generative AI works by analyzing vast datasets to produce new content, such as text or images, that closely resemble human created content. Using generative AI is remarkably straightforward. It doesn’t require any expertise in AI, let alone comprehension of the underlying mathematics or technologies.

These models are easily accessible through web services like OpenAI and Google, and they possess the ability to generate natural (human) language responses, making them accessible tools for communication and content creation within any community, including the church community.

However, despite their utility, generative AI models are not infallible. They may inadvertently incorporate the biases present in the data used to train the model or produce and propagate content that lacks factual accuracy.

Experienced technologists are typically aware that generative AI does not possess humanlike thinking or creativity. They understand that the outputs generated by these models may not always be as accurate as they initially appear. However, nontechnical ministry users may lack insight into how generative AI operates and may struggle to determine the source and reliability of its outputs and their role in its use.

RISKS AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS

A prominent risk associated with generative AI in the church context is the dissemination of inaccurate or misleading information. While these AI models can produce coherent language, the veracity of the content may be questionable.

Consider the risks in the following ministry use cases: Misinformation in Sermon Preparation. A pastor may utilize a generative AI tool to assist in sermon preparation by generating an outline complete with Scriptural exegesis and theological insights. However, due to limitations in the AI model’s understanding of theological nuances or historical context, the generated content may include inaccurate interpretations of Scripture or theological doctrines, leading to the dissemination of misinformation during sermons.

Biases in Bible Study Resources. A church may provide access to an AI-driven Bible study platform designed to provide

personalized study recommendations based on user input.

However, if the AI model is trained on biased datasets or reflects the theological preferences of its developers, it may inadvertently incorporate biases into its recommendations, favoring certain theological perspectives over others.

Community Engagement on Social Media. A church may use generative AI to automate social media engagement, including responding to comments, generating content or recommending Bible verses. However, if the AI model is not properly trained or monitored, it may inadvertently generate responses that are insensitive, inappropriate or misrepresentative of the church’s values, leading to misunderstandings or negative perceptions among online followers. Churches must exercise caution to ensure that the messages conveyed align with biblical teachings and do not inadvertently promote falsehoods.

Each of these use cases clearly provides a benefit to the user.

However, generative AI in its current form should be considered a tool from which a starting point is created for the user, and not the sole source of content. A clear understanding of the capabilities, limitations and potential risks of AI-assisted ministry tools is essential to foster informed content generation and maintain trust between the content creator and the consumer.

UPHOLDING HUMAN VALUES AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Despite the ability to mimic human creativity, generative AI models lack autonomy and moral agency, posing a significant challenge when it comes to plagiarism. These models, while adept at generating content, may inadvertently produce text that closely resembles existing material without proper attribution.

This raises concerns regarding intellectual property rights and ethical integrity.

Addressing the issue of plagiarism requires proactive measures, including implementing robust attribution mechanisms and educating users on the importance of ethical content creation.

AI developers are rapidly building safeguards into generative AI systems to detect and prevent instances of plagiarism, but much work has yet to be done in this area.

NAVIGATING THE WAY FORWARD

As the use of generative AI expands, the need for human vigilance becomes more pressing. Despite the challenges, they are unlikely to impede the adoption of generative AI in ministry contexts. As the church grapples with the opportunities and challenges posed by generative AI, it is essential to approach its integration with wisdom and discernment. Embracing technological innovation should not come at the expense of doctrinal integrity or human effort. Rather, the church must embrace a posture of discernment and accountability when using these technologies. It is humans, after all, whom he has called to the work of edifying his church and expanding his kingdom.

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Christians in the Age of Technophobia:

Embracing AI for The Great Commission Daniel Losey

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here I was, recovering from my heart transplant, and I was only a child. Life had been a bit of a struggle.

I was forced to evacuate medically from my home in Central Asia and now I was in and out of American hospitals.

At some point, I sat down and watched Iron Man with my sister, and my love for AI was born. Here was a guy, Tony Stark, who had nearly died of shrapnelin-the-heart problems, was given a sort of sci-fi version of a heart transplant, and had the coolest piece of technology I had ever seen: J.A.R.V.I.S. I wanted one—I wanted to make one.

Years later, I’m now working with Biblica (NIV), to create an AI Bible translation assistant. I’m hopeful the tools we build will shave years off the pioneer translation process. Having grown up in the Bible translation world, this is incredibly important to me. My work with Biblica, and my own AI projects, have convinced me more than ever that Christians should embrace, build and apply AI. If I took you to the nomadic tribe I grew up in, you would notice several things right away. You would be blown away by their culture and hospitality.

You would learn that many lost half 6

their families in an earthquake. Many more have died from easily curable diseases. Child mortality is very high, and many adults have permanent injuries or illness.

All these problems could have been prevented by pre-AI technologies. Fewer would have died in the earthquake if their houses had not been made of loose stones and timbers. In 2024, no one needs to die of malnutrition, and infant mortality should be zero. Compared to my childhood community’s real problems, imagine what complaining about screen addiction, a first-world tech complaint, might sound like to one of my friends. That’s like being given a genie lamp and complaining that it causes smoke.

only 10% of Americans are excited about AI. Worries range from AI takeover to deep fakes to job loss (Ironically, my job would not exist without AI). Or maybe you all know something I don’t. In any case, here are a few scattered thoughts toward a Christian response to AI. 1. PESSIMISM KILLS.

With the advent of every technology, a large portion of the population develops technophobia, defined as the fear and dislike of advanced technology. We all but halted the development of nuclear energy for many years because we thought it would cause nuclear proliferation— something that happened anyway. As a result, energy scarcity has caused many oil wars and left millions in poverty.

Playing it safe with technology has almost always cost more lives than it has saved. I see no reason why this will change now. Accepting a technology does not mean accepting its every possible application.

2. FOR CHRISTIANS, THE REWARDS VASTLY OUTWEIGH THE RISKS.

AI fear should be a non-issue. As followers of Christ, we already know how the story ends. Jesus comes back and we live forever with him. It won’t end any other way. AI is the hot new thing now, but it won’t always be. There will always be a new technology to worry about (hint: biotech is next).

The world is being given a new magic lamp: AI. Are there risks? Always, but people never predict the correct risks.

On the other hand, upsides are easier to predict: machine learning algorithms have recently stabilized nuclear fission, cured the type of lung disease my grandpa died of, and discovered the first new class of antibiotics in decades.

The apocalyptic events of Revelation aren’t something we should worry about (actually, nothing is). Rather, as Jesus taught us, we are to pray, “Your kingdom come.” (Matthew 6:10) This happy ending will not take place until “. . . this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” (Matthew 24:14, NIV)

Despite these amazing breakthroughs, and the millions of lives that “subtle AI” has already saved across medicine and agriculture, Pew Research estimates that

I strongly believe that machine translation will draft the Bible into every spoken and signed language well within our lifetime. A 2000-year-and-

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counting task will at last be completed. Remember the Wright brothers, who invented the airplane? They contributed more to global evangelism than any other individuals had for thousands of years. Perhaps Christian colleges should have a “Wright Hall” on their campuses.

3. BUILDING IS WHAT IMAGE BEARERS DO.

The word we translate as “carpenter” is actually tektōn, a more general word for carpenters, stone masons and artisans. From it, we derive our word “technology” (tekhnologia). The first verse of the Bible tells us that God “created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1), and later that he made mankind in his own image and “male and female he created them.”

(Genesis 1:27) We are told that Jesus is preparing a place for us (John 14:23) and creating a new heaven and a new earth. (Revelation 21:1) Again, in Genesis, we are introduced to human creativity through Jubal, “the father of all who play stringed instruments and pipes.” (Genesis 4:21, NIV) And God calls Noah to build an ark. We see God as a potter in Isaiah 64:8 and that we are his “handiwork.” (Ephesians 2:10, NIV) Even the Tower of Babel, a story often accidentally misused to promote technophobia, I believe is mainly a lesson against human pride and ignoring the first great task to “be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it.” (Genesis 1:28) God simply did not want people to stay in one place: “... So the Lord scattered them from there over all the earth, and they stopped building the city.” (Genesis 11:8, NIV) This is hardly a lesson against building cool towers in general… We see that Paul was a tentmaker. (Acts 18:3) There are countless more examples.

than being a game developer. Many of the great early inventors and scientists agreed that it caused them to worship God more. There is so much joy, and excitement, to be found in building things—whatever that may be for you.

The Great Commission, a finite task, remains unfinished even after so many centuries. We have wasted too much time. God’s people got a slow start in utilizing the internet for outreach and

were too late to be a part of building it. Thankfully we have another opportunity, and the church can help build new AI tools that cure diseases, end world hunger, and spread the unshakable hope we have in Jesus to the entire unreached world. God will do this with or without us, but would you not rather be a part of it?

“And then the end will come.”

All that to say, the act of creating is fundamental to who our God is—and therefore who we are. Nothing has helped me understand more theology 77

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GALLERY SPOTLIGHT AWE + WONDER: EASTER AND BEYOND Selections from our current ArtSpace gallery “Awe+Wonder,” grace the cover and this spotlight page of Connections. To celebrate the joys of Easter and the coming of spring, our artists express the joys of new life to the gallery and to this publication.

Thanks to all who contributed art.

Of all our gallery shows so far, this one has the widest age range, from our youngest artist (three-yearold Olive) to our oldest (Eleanor celebrates her 90th birthday this month), showing that creativity has no age limit. We also branched out this gallery to include submissions from one of our church plants as well as a community artist from one of our partner businesses.

PHILIP HOSSU

DON RYAN

KATHRYN MCBRIDE

LIITA FORSYTH

Come see the whole show and be encouraged at the many and varied expressions of faith and joy.

RUTH GREGORNIK

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ADELINE & PHOEBE GREGORNIK

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GALLERY

AWE + WONDER EASTER AND BEYOND Running through April 28 Celebrating Jesus’ resurrection, and the new life every spring offers.

HOURS: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 12-2 p.m. Also open on Sundays after the evening service.

For other opening times, contact the church office at (630) 6680878 or email artspace@collegechurch.org MEAGAN SHUPTAR

GATHERINGS A monthly coming together, where we discuss our personal projects and the many facets of creativity and God. TUESDAY, APRIL 9 at 7 p.m. in Crossings April word for the month: Plant Gathering Artist Scott Davis will be sharing about his artistry. We invite all people to come and share something creative in their current creative work.

Look forward to seeing you there!

WORKSHOPS POETRY WRITING with Richard Moomjian April 4 | 7-9 p.m. | Cost: FREE Spend the evening with Pastoral Resident Richard Moomjian, our “pastor poet,” and learn how he approaches the writing of poetry and the place it has in his life and ministry.

For more information or to sign up for a workshop, visit our webpage: DAVE SOBOTKA

college-church.org/artspace.

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PLASTER CRACKS Jim Crispin

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y wife, Kim, and I love the plaster walls and ceilings of our 1928 home. Alas, over time plaster develops cracks. Two weeks ago as I type these words, a guest in our living room would not have noticed any wall cracks because none were large enough to jump out. But I live here. I noticed the wall cracks, especially in daytime, and I saw additional cracks when I scanned the walls with a drop light. My typical approach is to repair a noticeable crack when it appears and address small cracks just before I paint a room. The living room didn’t need repainting, but the wall cracks irked me so I went after them as if I were about to repaint.

It’s always satisfying to repair all plaster cracks of a room until I see one that I missed. And then another. And then yet another the size of the Royal Gorge—how did I miss it? A drop light 10

reveals wall cracks, and the wall cracks I missed on a prior scan. I (by and large) patiently address each crack I find.

Finally, I determine that now I really am finished. Then I see another crack and think, “Aw, c’mon, man!”

People do not regularly point out my plaster cracks or my sins, so sometimes I slip into thinking that both are smaller in quantity and magnitude than they are. With the drop light of God’s Word I can better see my sins for what they are, and indeed sometimes I see what I had missed before. “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed

by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light.” (Ephesians 5:8-13, NIV) To another matter, I’ve cut the grass for all 27 summers we have lived in our home. Not once have I cut the grass and only cut the grass. Whenever I cut the grass, I am distracted by something that I hadn’t noticed before. It may be a piece of debris, a weed, an ant hill or any of 100 things. Typically, these distractions are fine, and I attend to a distraction when I see it so I don’t forget. Then I resume, cutting the grass.

In my 44 years of being a Christian, I have rarely if ever been at a Bible study, worship service, or time of praying alone without some distraction. Almost every distraction comes from my own mind, not from something amiss in my surroundings. In my view, an analogy to cutting the grass is weak but not absent: Many years ago, I attended a weekly

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Bible study with other young adults.

Often a point of discussion would bring to mind a 1960s or 70s rock-n-roll song; those who knew the lyrics sang robustly and not splendidly. We laughed and resumed Bible study. I don’t suggest this for College Church Men’s Bible Study today, but it worked for us at the time.

Emergency circumstances aside, we don’t want distractions to worship at home or church. Focused worship and returning to grass-cutting both involve self-intent, but any analogy ends there. It’s easy enough for me to resume cutting the grass, even if

sometimes it is the next day. It’s another matter to eliminate or at least reduce my distractions in worship. Some planning can help and there are tips to be had.

I appreciate it when Pastor Moody prays on Sunday morning that the Lord will grant us a mind and heart to focus on him. In the end, the more I turn to the Lord, the greater my yearning for him will be, and in turn the less my mind’s distractions will interfere with worship.

How wonderful to be like the psalmist: “My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.” (Psalm 84:2, NIV)

OPPORTUNITIES FOR PRAYER Call the church office or email info@college-church.org for details on these prayer meetings.

SUNDAY MORNING PRAYER: 8:15-8:40 a.m., meets in C101 MIDWEEK PRAYER MEETING: Wednesdays at 7 p.m. via Zoom APRIL 3: to be determined APRIL 10: Melissa Warner, member, are in Thailand APRIL 17: Phil and Ann Baur, administration and organizational leadership with Pioneers in Orlando, FL APRIL 24: Rod Duttweiler, organizational leadership and member care with Avant Ministries, based in Kansas City, MO FRIDAY PRAYER FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH: 12-1 p.m. in the Board Room.

God Centered Life : Ways to Connect The heavenly places. What are they? What does Paul mean by that term in Ephesians? You can listen through any podcast app, Spotify, the GCL app, online, as well as through finding a station near you.

The GCL app is now really clean and simple. And the podcast works seamlessly. Just scan the QR codes below!

Apple Podcast

Spotify

GCL App for iOS on Apple Store

GCL APP for Android on Google Play

Find a radio station near you:

Online: www. godcenteredlife.org

AARON-HUR PRAYER FELLOWSHIP: Will meet on Thursday, April 11, at 7 p.m. at the home of Everett and Marcelyn Peterson, 127 Westminster Drive in Carol Stream, (630) 7840569. Our guests will be Chad and Leanna Wieb, serving in Ukraine. soon to begin a new ministry serving in the Philippines.

BARNABAS PRAYER FELLOWSHIP: Barnabas Prayer Fellowship hears from Barbara Mill about the ministry to currently and formerly incarcerated people in which she and her husband, Manny, have been involved for many years. Barbara is operations director for Koinonia House Ministries, which includes a weekly Bible study called Radical Time Out. Barnabas Fellowship welcomes all to its time of learning and prayer at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 15, in the Arts Room of Covenant Living at Windsor Park, off North Ave. in Carol Stream.

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s g n i id T d a l G of Great Joy for Children in Africa

Victor Gordeuk

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hen I was a medical student, intern, and recently boarded internist, I spent several years serving at a mission hospital in South Africa, where we tried to help people medically in the name of Christ. I have tried to keep that underlying approach of serving Jesus with my medical career, which has included specialization in hematology and oncology, academic appointments in several universities, and medical research in five countries in Africa and in Russia.

As stated in the Book of Colossians, “Whatever you do, whether in work or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.”

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited condition that causes red blood cells, which carry oxygen to all parts of the body, to break down in the blood stream leading to low blood counts, episodes of excruciating pain, and progressive damage to the spleen, bones, liver, kidneys, lungs, and heart. The inherited problem is a change in the hemoglobin molecules that causes them to tend to bunch together (sickle), no longer carry oxygen, and damage the red blood cells that contain them.

Sickle cell anemia affects about four million children in Africa compared to perhaps 20,000 children in the US. The mortality in Africa is very high, with 50% or more of African children with the condition dying before the age of 20 years. For a long time, there was no treatment for sickle cell anemia, but in 1997 a medication called hydroxyurea was approved for the treatment of adults with sickle cell anemia in the US. Hydroxyurea was an unusual candidate to treat sickle cell anemia, because it was developed for the treatment of cancer.

But then it was discovered that fairly low doses of hydroxyurea cause the increase in red blood cells of the kind of hemoglobin found in preborn and newborn children, which cannot bunch up or sickle. Years of research in the laboratory and in human trials led to the initial approval of hydroxyurea for the treatment of sickle cell anemia. More years of research were undertaken before the approval of hydroxyurea treatment of children with sickle cell anemia in the US. But hydroxyurea is also used to treat cancer, and we had to monitor the sickle cell anemia patients carefully to make sure their white blood cells did not go so low that they would be at risk for infection. Infections, including malaria, are common in Africa and cause many deaths in children. The combination of sickle cell anemia and infection was of especial concern for thinking of using hydroxyurea in Africa.

But about 10 years ago we began careful studies to see if we could safely use hydroxyurea to treat sickle cell anemia.

I collaborated with talented local physicians in Nigeria to show that hydroxyurea could be safely used for the treatment of young adults with sickle anemia in that country. Other larger studies showed that hydroxyurea could be safely used to prevent complications of sickle cell anemia in children in Nigeria, Uganda and Zaire.

APRIL 2024 CONNECTIONS

About the same time investigators in Uganda conducted a placebocontrolled study to see if zinc supplementation could reduce infections in 248 children, and during the study about half of the children started to receive hydroxyurea to treat sickle cell anemia.

Unfortunately, zinc had no effect in decreasing infections: the rate of infection was the same in children receiving zinc as in those receiving placebo. But there was a surprising positive finding when the investigators carefully analyzed their data: the children who were started on hydroxyurea during the study not only had a reduction in pain episodes related to sickle cell anemia, but they also had significantly less malaria, gastroenteritis, and pneumonia. These are common severe infections with high mortality.

This paper was recently submitted to a major hematology journal, and I was asked to write a commentary for it during the Christmas season. I couldn’t help but think of the angel who told the shepherds, “Behold, I bring you glad tidings of great joy which shall be to all people.”

DAFFODILS Esther Waldrop

Accordingly, I gave the commentary the title “Glad Tidings and Joy for Children with Sickle Cell Anemia.” The final paragraph goes on to observe that hydroxyurea’s prevention of not only sickle cell anemia complications also severe infections are indeed glad tidings that should bring great joy to these children and their families.

This medical study exemplifies God’s abundant grace. The Apostle James says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above.” As expressed in Ephesians, God “is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think.” And Jesus is the sovereign Lord of all creation who loves children in Africa so much that gave his life for them. He loves them so much that he lets medical people know that what seemed like an unlikely treatment at the beginning turns out to not only to be the best medicine to prevent sickle cell anemia complications but also to be a powerful way to prevent infections.

I am reminded of a little boy who only had five loaves and two fishes, but he gave them to Jesus and Jesus fed 5000 hungry people with the little boy’s gift.

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arch always makes me want to read Wordsworth’s “I wandered lonely as cloud”–who doesn’t love the happy dance of the daffodils, and the hope they proclaim of light, and hope, and spring, and warmth, especially after the gray days of winter.

Strong winds remind me of the mighty rushing sound of the Holy Spirit filling the room on that first Pentecost, and fill my heart with hope that He will fill us again, and again, and revive his people all over the world, and draw many souls into his kingdom, now, today, this spring, this Easter.

It was an Easter Sunday many years ago when it hit me for the first time that it was for me that Jesus died, for my sins. My sister and I were three and four, and we were lying in the back of our little VW hatchback on the way home from church, stunned that the only good and perfect person who ever lived was killed, not for anything he had done, but willingly, to atone for all the evils that had ever been done, by everyone past and present, including us. “The lamb of God, slain for the sins of the world.” It happened that my mom had had the idea of serving lamb for our Easter meal—and we just couldn’t. How could we eat something that used to be a lamb?

A cute, perfect, fluffy, adorable lamb? On my plate? And I am supposed to take a bite?

We were not able to eat the lamb, and my mom graciously understood and gave us cereal instead. But we did sit at the table and ask Jesus to forgive us of our sins, all we had ever done, and would ever do. And it stuck. Of course we still sinned, but we were never the same—we belonged to Jesus, and he carried us through our childhood, through our troubled teen years, through our questioning college years, and into our parenting and now grandparenting years. And every Easter I am stunned again that what he did covers me. “All we, like sheep, have gone astray. We have turned, every one, to his own way, and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.” How amazing.

And that is why, as Wordsworth says, when I think about all he has done for me, and the life he brought out of death, his death, for me, then truly “my heart with pleasure fills, and dances with the daffodils.”

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APRIL 2024 CONNECTIONS

NEW MEMBERS JAMES & KAREN SEWARD

The James Seward family is back at College Church after many years serving in Ontario, Canada, where James pastored a church. Karen and James have five children and plenty of relatives at College Church—James’ parents, John and Debbie Seward, and his sisters Abby (Nate) Clark and Ruth (Tim) Haumersen. James is the director of ministry for the Neopolis Network, an organization that aims to partner churches globally for the sake of raising up leaders to preach, pastor and plant churches. Karen is a homemaker and enjoys gardening, reading and baking.

ANDREA STRYCKER

Andrea has five grown children and lives in Carol Stream. She is the granddaughter of Russian Mennonite refugees who fled to Canada in 1929 when collectivization began under Stalin. She and her late husband traveled on short-term medical missions trips, and she feels at home attending the All Nations Adult Community. Andrea volunteers her time at World Relief DuPage.

MEREDITH TAYLOR

As a daughter of Jeremy and Nancy Taylor, Meredith has grown up at College Church. She is now attending Wheaton College and involved with the College Group here. When not at class or studying, she does a lot of babysitting, reading, baking as well enjoying coffee shops with her friends and family.

MARY TRUCKSA

Mary grew up in Chicago and has two adult children. She is a retired accountant who worked for 40 years for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. Mary enjoys cross stitching and being an encourager to people through social media.

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CEDRIC WONG

Cedric is a missionary kid who grew up in three different countries—the Philippines, Kyrgyzstan and Turkey.

He is currently an HR intern at Tyndale and for One Challenge International.

Cedric is involved in a small group and enjoys serving in KMs.

NEIL WOOTEN

Neil grew up in Alabama and moved to this area with his family. He began attending College Church in 2021 and is involved in the 20s Ministry and small group. He serves as a greeter at the Welcome Center. Neil works as a quality engineer at a water meter company.

MIKE & MEG ZAINO

The Zainos have been married since 2010 and have four young children.

Mike works in sales at First Trust Portfolios. Meg is involved in Women’s Bible Study, and they have both been involved in Kids’ Harbor for a few years.

Meg’s mother, Donna McAlister, and sisters Kristin Roth and Lindsay Terhune all attend College Church.

SARAH ZUMBROCK

Sarah was raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and attended college there.

She now works as a buyer for Aldi Corporate and is involved with the 20s Ministry and small group. She enjoys reading, being outdoors, baking and taking walks with friends.

APRIL 2024 CONNECTIONS

OUR VISION 2024 INITIATIVES Vision: “Proclaiming the Gospel”

PATHWAY. We will develop a simple invitational pathway for our gospel ministries: Discover Jesus, Grow in Your Faith and Impact the World. In 2024, we will continue developing that pathway by emphasizing and enhancing the “on ramps” to College Church in the following ways: 1) promoting Kids’ Harbor as one of the first impressions of College Church, 2) augmenting and strengthening our Front Door ministries, and 3) establishing a culture where our congregants willingly and effectively share our faith.

Rationale: After consultation with a Christian communications company, and surveying the neighborhood, we have discovered that we need to present the distinctive gospel ministry opportunity of College Church more clearly and invitationally to the surrounding community.

COMMUNITY. We will cultivate care, encouragement, and connection in 2024 by: 1) calling a pastor focused in these areas (title to be determined), 2) establishing a permanent CARE team to support congregational care, 3) expanding elder prayer for each member of the church by name, and 4) identifying and training Small Group Coordinators to support all of our Small Group Leaders.

DISCIPLESHIP. We will elevate biblically rigorous and practical discipleship by, in 2024: 1) emphasizing and encouraging a renewed focus on discipleship in the context of church family life, 2) providing additional resources for personal disciple making as well as improving awareness and accessibility to them, and 3) offering two churchwide seminars on matters of current importance for being faithful disciples in today’s world.

Rationale: After a churchwide discipleship survey, we have ascertained a growing need for more rigorous and practical discipleship that is coherently coordinated across both small and large groups.

CAMPUS. We will increasingly activate our campus by utilizing the Crossings as a crossover space to reach the community and for student, worship and family space, funded through a capital campaign launched in 2024, prioritizing safety and accessibility upgrades to our parking and other key areas, and studying the highest and best missional use for our portfolio of rental properties.

PARTNERSHIPS. We will leverage the church’s history of church planting, training programs, and connections across the country and world by: 1) expanding the scope of our church planting efforts to include planting, strengthening and revitalizing, 2) hosting a prayer gathering for College Church members interested in this work, 3) exploring partnership with one new organizational partner, and 4) seeking to develop one new church partner in each category (planting, strengthening, revitalizing) by December 2024.

Rationale: By partnering with likeminded churches and organizations, and by broadening our scope to include planting, strengthening, and revitalization, we can increase our gospel impact through gospel-centered, Bible-preaching churches.

Rationale: After the Site and Facilities committee’s extensive work surveying the ministry pinch points, it is apparent that we need to develop our ministry space, and we will target the Crossings space.

Rationale: After conversations with key ministry leaders, it is apparent we need to increase connectivity between members and attenders of the church through mutually loving and caring hospitality.

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or years we lived more or less paycheck to paycheck.

A business-minded person would have told us that someone in Christian publishing who holds the conviction that a mom should stay home with her young children had no business having five children. But we either trusted God or were foolishly optimistic, or perhaps a bit of both.

The saint and the sinner battle it out in each of us. There were a few other nonnegotiables for us: music lessons (our kids had some natural abilities that we believed should be trained for the future good of the church as well as their own intellectual and emotional development) and braces. Giving? Well, we did that

become Tyndale House Ministries, so he knows better than anyone what a legacy they left. It stretches literally around the world. And God always provided for their family as well, above and beyond what they could have imagined during those lean years.

That exposure has changed us through the years. It’s hard to live in the shadow of generosity and not soak up some of its effects. These days we have more to give, and we give even more. In a way it’s easier to give more when we have more, but in a way it’s not. When we had no choice but to live paycheck to paycheck, we were very aware that everything we had comes from God. With financial cushion comes the temptation to

To put it more simply, our affections follow our dollars. In writing Bible studies I’ve often posed the question, “what does your spending say about your heart?” It’s a question that is easier to ask someone else than answer for myself. Most everything we do is done with mixed motives and complicated outcomes. But at the center is this core truth: if we are walking with Jesus, we will become increasingly generous.

You can’t separate generosity from gospel growth.

Kent Hughes put it this way in an interview: “generosity is a sign of a regenerate soul. There is no such thing as a Christian scrooge. . . . We may know some scrooges who claim to be

A Legacy of Generosity Nancy Taylor

too, always some, but probably not as much as we should have.

protect ourselves, to hold some back “just in case.”

In the back of our minds was the awareness that we are descended from generous givers. We had a legacy that deserved to be lived up to on all sides.

Farmers and blue-collar workers and teachers and publishers, they lived simply but gave lavishly. My husband’s grandparents lived in a falling-apart house with ten children, whom they struggled to keep fed and clothed. Yet when the opportunity came to finally have a financial cushion, they chose instead to give it all away. And God richly blessed both the giving and givers. Today my husband works for the foundation his grandparents started with the very first dollars of what would

Of course, God expects us to steward our resources well, and that includes saving and spending carefully. But how easy it is to go from careful to miserly.

From depending on God to depending on a bank balance. The line between fiscal responsibility and faith can be a little blurry at times, and the distance from responsible to greedy isn’t as far as you might think. We say we know that everything we have comes from God and belongs to him, but do we really mean it? Or do we secretly think that the years of want somehow make us deserving of a little luxury?

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Jesus said where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Matthew 6:21).

Christians, but I don’t think you can claim to really know Christ and be a stingy person. The gospel opens our soul—and with it, our hands.”1 I think there are two key questions we should ask of the Bible to inform our generosity.

WHY SHOULD WE GIVE?

1. God owns it all anyway. How we spend our money is really a question of stewardship, the principle that God has given us everything we have, and we are tasked with stewarding it for his kingdom. God says, “For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills . . . the world and its fullness are mine.”

(Psalm 50:10, 12) When we give, we

APRIL 2024 CONNECTIONS

are merely giving back to him out of the abundance of his provision. This is why the Israelites acknowledged as they gave their offerings to the temple, “all things come from you, and of your own we have given you.”

(1 Chronicles 29:14) 2. God is generous with us. In addition to all the material gifts we enjoy, the spiritual gifts God has given us are more than we could number. “He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32) It is natural to want to give back when we contemplate the gifts God has given us.

3. We can trust God to provide.

Sometimes we are reluctant to give because we are afraid we won’t have enough left over to meet our own needs. But God has promised to provide for us. Jesus recounted the great value God places on each person and reminds us to “Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.

Are you not of more value than they?” (Matthew 6:26) We can trust that when we give, God will continue to meet our needs.

4. Giving is one way we support the proclamation of the gospel. God works through us, his people, to share the gospel. That requires resources.

So, giving to the spread of the gospel is one way to fulfill our mission of “proclaiming the gospel.”

5. Our giving helps others. This seems obvious, but it can be difficult to see the connection between giving to a church or organization and the people who are helped. The more involved you become with the places you’re sending your money, the more you see how your giving helps fulfill the command to “bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) In the church setting, one of the best ways to see how your giving dollars are being spent is to be personally involved by serving.

6. Giving is a form of worship.

Scripture speaks of giving as a “sacrifice” that is pleasing to God (Hebrews 13:16). This is why Jesus praised the woman who anointed him with oil, even though that gift was an extravagance (Matthew 26:613). When we give of our resources for the sake of the gospel, we are serving a cup of cold water in Jesus’ name, and that honors him.

7. Giving is a conduit of blessing.

Obviously, we do not give because of what we hope to get out of it. God is not pleased with selfish givers. Nor does our giving in any way obligate God to increase our wealth, despite what prosperity preachers might say. But it is true that when we give,

we end up receiving as well. Jesus said, “give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” (Luke 6:38) Generosity is a means of grace in our lives.

8. We are investing in eternity. The goal of our giving is to invest what will last forever. Paul makes the connection, telling Timothy to remind the church to “be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is

truly life.” (1 Timothy 6:18-19) It’s a good exchange to spend money that won’t last in order to take hold of true life that lasts forever.

HOW SHOULD WE GIVE?

1. Give more than is asked. When the Israelites were building the tabernacle, they gave above and beyond what was required. They had to be restrained from giving because “the material they had was sufficient to do all the work, and more.” (Exodus 36:7) May that level of generosity be true among God’s people today and here at College Church. continued on next page

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2. Give of ourselves, not just our money. The story of the Good Samaritan shows us that generosity costs us more than money. It requires us to stop, notice, have compassion, and serve even those who are our natural enemies (Luke 10:27-35). It’s not enough to write a check; God wants us to give ourselves. If you don’t know how God wants you to give of yourself in the season you’re in right now, make it a matter of prayer.

3. Give to people who are different from us. It’s easier to give to people we think are deserving of our gifts, but far more telling is how we respond to requests of those we think are undeserving. Buried in the account of Jesus healing the centurion’s servant is this fact: “he is the one who built us our synagogue.” (Luke 7:5) In other words, this Gentile had built a place of worship for the Jews.

That’s generosity. How can you give to someone you might think doesn’t deserve it?

4. Give secretly. We must be careful about making our giving public because those who give for the recognition have received all the reward they will ever receive (Matthew 6:1-4). Following the example of Jesus, our giving should be done from a desire to serve, not to be served (Mark 10:45; Philippians 2:5-8).

5. Give with joy. Paul wrote, “whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

(2 Corinthians 9:6-7) This does not mean that we should not give if we don’t want to. Giving is a spiritual discipline, and that means sometimes we do it simply because we know it’s good for our souls. But if we learn to be truly generous, we will experience joy because we will be released from the anxiety surrounding money and the idol of materialism. We must 18

learn to think of giving not as losing something but gaining something— sowing seeds that will reap a harvest into eternity.

God doesn’t need our gifts. Paul preached that God is not “served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives all mankind life and breath and everything.” (Acts 17:25) But we need to give, for the good of our own souls.

In the end, generosity isn’t about how much we give, but where our heart is when we give. Jesus praised the widow’s mite not because her small gift made

a difference to the synagogue’s bottom line, but because giving all she had showed her love for God (Luke 21:1-4).

The kind of giving we should aspire to is sacrificial, a spending of ourselves and our resources because we so love our Savior who spent himself for us. Asking yourself the question What does my spending say about my heart? is a good place to start the journey of generosity.

But perhaps the better question to ask is Does Jesus have my heart?

Generosity will naturally flow from the life of someone who understands how generous he has been with us.

Kent Hughes, “Generosity,” Desiring God podcast (August 23, 2014), https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/generosity.

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MILESTONES BIRTHS Eden Elizabeth was born to Pastor Baxter and Kelsie Helm on February 27. This is their first child.

Carson Steven was born to Steve and Libby Newton on February 26. Carson joins his sisters Sloan and Fallon. His maternal grandparents are Phil and Judy Nussbaum.

DEATHS Pray for Dan (Angie) Schroder and family as they grieve the loss of Dan’s father, Ray, who passed away on March 21 in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Pray for Wanda Poor and family as they grieve the loss of Wanda’s grandson Charles “Charley” Poor, who died on March 10 in drowning accident.

Pray for Rich (Corrie) Barrie and family as they grieve the loss of Rich’s mother, Helge, who passed away on March 2.

Pray for Susan (Tom) Krisch and family as they grieve the loss of Susan’s brother-in-law Ron Nasti, who passed away on March 1.

Pray for College Church missionary Chad (Leanna) Wiebe and family as they grieve the loss of Chad’s father on February 26.

Pray for former missionary Philip Baarendse and family as they grieve the loss of Philip’s father, Richard, who passed away on February 23 in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin.

APRIL 2024 CONNECTIONS

Living Forward

by Faith Virginia Hughes

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iling cabinets, photo albums, “I remember when...” comments from those who’ve been walking these halls a while, boxes of documents and bits of information from numerous decades become pieces of the stories painting a picture of our church’s past.

College Church has solid roots formed by faithful members from its earliest beginnings. Folks spent their lives here giving of themselves in sacrificial ways through praying, reading God’s Word and daily living out their faith.

College Church members are known to not only dig deeply from their material resources to give to the church, but to take a shovel in hand and dig out great piles of dirt for a foundation where a building for the church would be built. Grabbing a shovel to dig for our church is not an action that has disappeared. It is seen today within our faithful garden volunteers.

Members have given of themselves physically and built the church to resolve overcrowding as the church grew. Ministry has expanded through Bible teaching and sharing musical and creative talents including following the call to full time ministry in the U.S. and abroad. The adults have diligently followed God’s leading.

As we turn to the children, we recall the command of Jesus, “Do not forbid these little ones to come unto me.” The church knows this, and we forbid them not. Children of all ages are trained from an early age to come to Jesus, know him, hide his words in one’s heart and be active, vibrant lights of the world.

The youngest generations at College Church have a rich history of enthusiastically participating in ministry. They are not just along for the ride, waiting to grow up and at some obscure point down the road, perhaps maybe sort of be involved in the ministries of the church, but have been historically active in ministry even when young.

The old stories weren’t just kids being kids. Their actions resonate far beyond the regular or ordinary. Their spontaneous enthusiasm was Spirit fed and continues to inspire us. The spring of living water that has fed the youth is alive and well in our church today as evidenced within our children’s choirs who will lead us in worship through an upcoming musical, “Forward

by Faith.” The musical features a few scenes from the history of College Church.

Come meet young Esther Brooks who got up very early in the morning to be the first one at the scene. But where did Esther need to be? Please come and see.

Pastor Evan Welsh was known to keep a hand written prayer list while earnestly praying over the people of this church. He was on hand to pray with families of young men and women saying goodbye to loved ones leaving Wheaton to serve during the harsh times of war.

The Bible school program has always been lively in our church where children welcome visitors, learn from Bible stories and memorize Bible verses.

Which three young men saw a need for transportation and up and bought a bus together to be used for church ministry.

They did what now? Come and learn who they were and what inspired them.

May we each allow the spirit to move us to action. To give more of ourselves and be filled with the delight of being his children walking forward together by faith.

Come enjoy “Forward by Faith” on Sunday, May 5 at 5 p.m., under the direction of our children’s choirs team: Alleluia Choir—Debbie Hollinger, Boys Choir—Brad Warren, Cherub Choir—Lea Lamb, Hosanna Choir—Pam Whittles.

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APRIL 2024 CONNECTIONS

CHURCH LIFE APRIL HIGHLIGHTS

SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP SERVICES Everyone welcome.

Join us at 8, 9:30 and 11 a.m.

Livestream broadcast is at 9:30 a.m. You can watch it at collegechurch.org/livestream Senior Pastor Josh Moody preaching APRIL 7: Come Rest a While, Mark 6:31 NEW MORNING SERMON SERIES:

GOSPEL. NOW.

APRIL 21: 2 Corinthians 11:16-33, Pastor Josh Maurer preaching APRIL 28: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10, Pastor Dan Hiben preaching

• Teacher: Teaching team led by James Seward

ALL NATIONS Sundays 9:30 a.m. in C104F

• Study: Psalms

• Teacher: Jim Tebbe • Study: God’s Mission as seen in Scripture: The Life of Abraham • Description: Besides studying Scripture, we will have testimonies as well as information about and prayer for the church in countries around the world as a regular feature of the class.

• Teacher: John Maust

APRIL 21: Focus on Eternal Fruit!

John 4:36 APRIL 28: Rejoice Together!

John 4:36-37

SUNDAY EVENING WORSHIP SERVICES

LOGOS Sundays 9:30 a.m. in C104E

ADULT COMMUNITIES

FORUM 15 Sundays 8 a.m. in C104F

APRIL 14: Lift Up Your Eyes!

John 4:35

• Description: Fellowship and exposition of James, with application to life today

THRIVE Sundays 9:30 a.m. in Crossings-Clapham Main Area • Teachers: Joe Becker, Dan Haase, Dan Lindquist, Mark Odell, Dave Setran, John Yoder • Study: Gospel of John • Description: Fellowship, teaching and prayer with an emphasis on applying God’s truth to our lives.

VERITAS Sundays 9:30 a.m. in C104B & D

• Study: “Holding to the Hope We Possess”

• Teacher: Dr. Gregg Quiggle

• Description: prayer time, singing and study with class interaction.

• Description: Teaching and discussion about the Reformation.

All Ages Welcome.

GREEK EXEGESIS CLASS Sundays 9:30 a.m. in the Board Room

• Study: History of the Reformation

• Teacher: Jon Laansma

WOMEN’S MINISTRIES

• Study: 1 John

MOM2MOM

• Description: Reading and discussion of the Greek New Testament. Knowledge of Greek is not required for this class.

APRIL 8: Large Group Gathering in Commons Hall, 9:30-11 a.m.

TOPIC: prayer

Everyone welcome.

LIFE TOGETHER COMMUNITY Sundays 9:30 a.m. in Commons Gym

in Crossings at 5 p.m.

• Teacher: Teaching Team

APRIL 22: Playdate, 9:30-11:30 a.m. in the Commons gym WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY We hope you’ll join us as we study the Book of Acts. To register, visit our website.

Evening Sermons from 2 Corinthians

• Description: Short teaching with small group discussion.

Authentic, biblical community for adults ages 25–40

APRIL 7: 2 Corinthians 10:1-18, Pastor Ben Panner preaching

LIVING WORD Sundays 9:30 a.m. in C104A & C104C

MORNING: 9:30-11 a.m.

EVENING: 6:45-8:15 p.m.

APRIL 14: 2 Corinthians 11:1-15, Pastoral Resident Richard Moomjian preaching

• Teachers: Felipe Chamy, Grant Flynn and Josh Maurer

WOMEN’S GATHERING

EVENING SERMON SERIES:

Strength in Weakness

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• Study: The Letter of James

WEDNESDAYS

APRIL 13: 9–10:30 a.m. in Commons Hall

APRIL 2024 CONNECTIONS

MEN’S MINISTRIES

HIGH SCHOOL (HYACKS)

ARTSPACE

MEN’S BREAKFAST

SUNDAY MORNINGS: 9:30-10:30 a.m. in Crossings

Details on page 9.

WEDNESDAY EVENINGS: (Clapham main area) or small groups in homes at 7-8:30 p.m.

ABOUT US LUNCH

MARCH 6: 7:30 a.m. Commons Hall MEN’S BIBLE STUDY WEDNESDAY EVENINGS: Studying the Book of Acts, in Commons 6:45-8:15 p.m.

If you’d like to join the study, REGISTER HERE: https://tinyurl. com/4vc8smjv

CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES (KIDS’ HARBOR) SUNDAY MORNING NURSERY (0–2) at 9:30 and 11 a.m.

BIBLE SCHOOL (preschool–fifth grade) at 9:30 a.m.

WONDERS OF WORSHIP “WOW” (K–third grade) during second half of 11 a.m. service.

CHILDREN’S CHURCH (older preschool) during second half of 11 a.m. service CHILDREN’S CHURCH (younger preschool) at 11 a.m.

ALL KIDS’ HARBOR SUNDAY P.M. PROGRAMS God’s Children Sing, Children’s Choirs, Preschool and Nursery— last Sunday is April 28

APRIL 3: Large Group (Crossings) APRIL 10: Small Groups (Homes) APRIL 17: Large Groups APRIL 24: Small Groups

SPECIAL EVENT Special Event for parents of children in Kids’ Harbor, KMs and HYACKs: Parenting and Technology: Biblical Wisdom in a World of Wants, Wifi and Widgets Monday, April 15, 6-8 p.m. in Commons Hall

COLLEGE GROUP SUNDAYS: College Group at 10:45 a.m., Sundays in the Crossings TUESDAYS: The Table (dinner and Bible Study) 6:30 p.m. in the Crossings

STARS DISABILITY Adult and Multi-Generational classes meet at 9:30 and attend church together at 11 a.m.

WEDNESDAY MINISTRIES

Child/Teen class Sundays at 9:30 and 11 a.m.

KIDS KORNER 9:30-11 a.m. (connected with morning Women’s Bible Study)

STARS Choir Sunday at 5 p.m.

No choir on April 28.

EVENING PROGRAMS 6:45-8:15 p.m.

—last Wednesday is April 24

MIDDLE SCHOOL (KINGS MESSENGERS) SUNDAY MORNINGS: 9:30-10:30 a.m., in the KMs room (Commons Lower Level) WEDNESDAY EVENINGS: in the Crossings 6:45-8:15 p.m.

STARS Moms Bible Study Sunday at 5 p.m. Not meeting on April 28.

STARS Praise in Action Wednesday at 6:45 p.m.

Are you new to College Church or would you like to learn more about us? If so, you’re invited to a special lunch on Sunday, April 14, at noon in the lobby outside the Sanctuary.

Come and meet pastors and staff, learn about College Church, and find out how you can get involved. Lunch is on us! RSVP to help us plan.

KEENAGERS Due to a scheduling conflict the April 12 Keenagers event is being rescheduled to Friday, May 17, at 5:30 p.m. Watch for upcoming program and reservation announcements!

MEMBERSHIP Ready to participate fully in the life and ministries of College Church?

Come find out about College Church’s history, core beliefs, ministries and what it means for you to be a member. This one-day only membership opportunity will be Saturday, May 11, from 8 a.m.to noon; registration is requested. For more info, contact Christy at membership@collegechurch.org, or call (630) 668-0878, ext. 175.

STARS Friday Night Fun: April 19 at 6:30 p.m.

STARS Friday Friends: April 19 at 6:30 p.m.

STARS Talent Show: April 26 at 6:30 p.m.

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APRIL 2024 CONNECTIONS

Looking Ahead

Under the Radar

VISION SUNDAY/ ANNUAL MEETING

FISHING

MAY 19

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

MORNING: What Should Be the #1 Priority of Your Life?

Philippians 3:12-16

FISHING: Spring Trout Season Opener on April 6

EVENING: Annual Meeting 5 p.m.

SUMMER KICKOFF

LOCATIONS: Blackwell, Prat’s Wayne Woods, Wood Dale Grove Try your luck on Silver, Pickerel or Grove Lakes. Anglers 16 and older must carry valid Illinois fishing licenses with inland trout stamps.

All ages. Free. No registration.

SPRING CONCERTS Invite a neighbor or friend to join you at an all-church celebration on June 2 , from noon to 6 p.m. to kick off the summer. This is the last day of Cream of Wheaton, and we want to encourage residents of our community to come to College Church. Food options include authentic BBQ pulled pork, smoked sausage and ribs, burgers, hot dogs and all the fixings, plus desserts. Food is free for all guests and all you can eat for $10. Also, enjoy live music, games, sports, inflatables and competitive trivia under a big tent. We will have an open house to display many of the ministries we have to offer. Save the date now!

RUN FOR THE STARS 2024 NEW DATE: September 21 Mark your calendar and plan to attend.

Morton Arboretum Events Nature Artists’ Guild Spring Exhibit Friday, April 5 through Sunday, April 7, Included with Arboretum admission The next Dog Admission Day at the Arboretum is Sunday, April 21, from 7 a.m. to sundown—plenty of time to enjoy the Arb with your dog after the services.

Dog admission is $5 a dog.

Dog and human guests must purchase general admission tickets in advance at: Visiting with Dogs at https://mortonarb.org/ explore/activities/events/dogadmission-days/

WHEATON COLLEGE CONCERTS

FAMILY EVENTS

Women’s Chorale Spring Concert Friday, April 5, at 7:30 p.m.

Downtown Wheaton Association Family Events

Men’s Glee Club Spring Concert Saturday, April 6, at 7:30 p.m.

Character Trail Downtown Wheaton Saturday, April 13, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Tickets at tickets.wheaton.edu CHICAGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA TRUMPETER

John Hagstrom, Trumpet Recital Sunday, April 14 at 3:00 p.m. in the sanctuary at College Church.

Free admission.

RECYCLING EXTRAVAGANZA City of Wheaton Recycling Extravaganza & Paper Shredding Event at Liberty Drive and Carlton Avenue, Wheaton Saturday, April 13, 8:30 –11:30 a.m.

Paper shredding, electronics and more.

MISSING SOMETHING? Check the various LOST AND FOUND bins throughout the church for missing Bibles, notebooks, coats, travel mugs and more.

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SPRING FUN

Princesses, super heroes. Follow a map and visit a variety of costumed characters in stores throughout Wheaton.

Touch-A-Truck Free family-friendly event Liberty Drive Saturday, April 27, 11 a.m. –2 p.m.

Get up close, climb, honk and touch trucks, emergency vehicles and more.

APRIL 2024 CONNECTIONS

at the

BOOKSTALL For the month of April we’d love to focus on a few books that equip believers to grow deeper in our walk with Jesus. These next few books will hopefully encourage you with some of the core truths of the Bible, with answer to some of today’s big issues and even to help our kids know how to live for the Lord.

FOLLOWING JESUS IN AN AGE OF QUITTERS

NO REASON TO HIDE

by Erwin Lutzer The world continues to push progressive ideologies from every place it can — the news, social media, our schools, even some churches. Pastor Lutzer provides answers to the believer, so that we can stand firm and be courageous in a culture that hates us.

Bookstall Price: $15

TREE STREET KIDS SET

by John Gillespie In 1722, American theologian, Jonathan Edwards wrote seventy resolutions for himself. His desire was to live the Christian life well and so he wrote this to help himself stay focused. These resolutions are, quite simply, amazing to read. John Gillespie walks us through a number of the resolutions in the light of scripture and strengthens us by helping us to apply these helpful resolutions to our own lives.

Bookstall Price: $12

by Amanda Cleary Estep Jack Finch has moved with his parents and sister, from the home he loves out in the country, to a nearby suburb of Chicago. The adventures he faces are fun, the friends he makes are quirky and entertaining. The reason I love these books so much (besides them being set in the 90’s) is that we get to see the Christianity of this family on display through the entire book. Many kids chapter books just slap a Bible verse on the end of the book. Tree Street Kids is filled with the family reminding each other of Bible verses, praying together and learning about the Lord.

THE TRINITY

by Donald Fairborn A wonderfully simple book to introduce us to the complex doctrine of the Trinity. This book is great for Christians in all seasons from High school on up. The Trinity is a central doctrine to Christianity. It is vital to understand. This short book is biblical and accessible.

Bookstall Price: $3

Bookstall Price: $22

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Coins for Caring Network BABY BOTTLE CAMPAIGN Kara Beth Vance

D

id you know that College Church members were instrumental in founding the local crisis pregnancy center that eventually became Caring Network? Today, Caring Network provides free pregnancy services such as pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, confidential consultations, resources and referrals, support and counseling for post-abortive women and men. Along with these practical services, the gospel is being proclaimed with its hope of transformation and new life—for both parent and baby.

community that equip and empower women to choose life.

College Church has partnered with Caring Network in its important work with prayer and financial support since 2001. In 2005, Caring Network had its first baby bottle campaign and our church has participated ever since. I asked Tracy Kerr from Caring Network to share with us about why the baby bottle campaign remains such an important part of our partnership. Here’s a summary of our conversation.

A GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR FAMILIES

THE COINS FIND A HOME

The funds collected during Coins for Caring Network support the regular operating budget of the ministry, keeping the lights on and the doors of the pregnancy centers open so that Caring Network can continue to provide free pregnancy services in our 24

Coins for Caring Network baby bottle campaign is the largest churchfacilitated funding effort to support the work of Caring Network each year. Last year, College Church was one of 54 churches that participated in the campaign. The bottles are a visual reminder to congregants that we support Caring Network as a church, and familiarizes us with what Caring Network’s work in our community.

College Church supports Caring Network monthly as well, but the baby bottle campaign is a fantastic opportunity for parents to talk to their children and teenagers about important life matters in an age-appropriate way.

A VISIBLE REMINDER, A WAY TO CONNECT

The baby bottles are a visible presence that invites individuals who need help to contact Caring Network first. We also keep business cards for the Caring Network’s local pregnancy resource center in the women’s restrooms at church as well as cards featuring Caring Network’s post-abortion healing ministry, Restore After Abortion, displayed around church.

THE LONG-TERM PLAN

The long-term plan of Caring Network is to go where the need is greatest, reach the clients first, equip women to choose life, and provide a circle of care around them. Caring Network intends to open 25 new clinics across Illinois and fully staff a telecare clinic. As of 2020, 51% of Illinois abortions were performed with medication. More and more women are investigating telehealth abortion websites since the Dobbs decision in June 2022.

Caring Network will meet this challenge with a telecare clinic allowing clients to meet virtually with a nurse who will refer them to Abortion Pill Reversal services or help them engage other pregnancy services in their location. Fortunately, if a pregnant woman has only taken the first dose of a medication abortion that blocks her naturally produced progesterone, it may be possible to reverse the pill’s effects and continue the pregnancy by taking a progesterone prescription within 24-72 hours. Over 60% of pregnancies proceed to term for women who had Abortion Pill Reversal (APR). For almost 50 years, doctors have used the same FDA-approved progesterone for pregnant women as used in APR treatment. Research also indicates APR has not been shown to increase birth defects.

APRIL 2024 CONNECTIONS

WHAT CAN COLLEGE CHURCH DO? PRAY.

Pray for wisdom and direction about a Caring Network center in the Austin neighborhood of Chicago and that the Lord would open a door for this location.

SANCTITY OF HUMAN LIFE CARING NETWORK CORNER

When Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022, the heat turned up for the ministry of Caring Network. Pray that the Lord would sustain the staff and empower them by his Spirit to do this work. Pray for the clients, that they would choose life and that their lives would be impacted. Praise the Lord that last year 10 clients committed their lives to Christ.

“I support Caring Network because God has a heart for the vulnerable, and crisis pregnancy centers like Caring Network provide indispensable care and support for women who are facing unplanned pregnancies. Once the barrier of not having enough resources is removed, women in these situations are far more likely to choose life for their baby.” —Holly Burke, SOHL team member

GIVE.

KATELYN AND CALLIE CHOSE LIFE

Fill up a baby bottle during the campaign with coins or cash. You may also write a check or give online. If you give online, indicate that you are from College Church so we can track the total donated from the church. Consider supporting Caring Network monthly as a family and receiving email updates from them to help inform your prayers for this ministry.

Katelyn was almost 20 weeks along and called Caring Network while still at Planned Parenthood. The facility would not perform a lateterm abortion and they offered no help. Searching in desperation for answers on the internet, Katelyn found Caring Network. Here she was offered honest information about the procedure she was seeking, which was all unknown to her.

Katelyn’s heart was burdened by doubt and worry.

Caring Network has seen a large increase in the number of clients. Let’s support this opportunity to reach clients by outdoing ourselves in generosity.

Together, we can surpass last year’s total of $11,109.03. The baby bottles will be distributed starting Sunday, April 21, outside the Sanctuary, the Commons, and in Kids’ Harbor. Please return the bottles on Mother’s Day, May 12.

Scan or click here to give online.

https://caringnetwork.com/babybottle-drive-give/

She felt alone, afraid to tell anyone for fear of judgment. Her pregnancy consultant shared the gospel and let her know she’s not alone, God is with her. Callie was hesitant about having an abortion if the baby had a heartbeat. The importance of ultrasound was discussed and Callie agreed to come, knowing it would be after the baby’s heart starts to beat. She said if she waited for the ultrasound, she knew she probably wouldn’t move forward with the abortion. The following day, Callie canceled her ultrasound appointment. She shared the news with her husband and they decided to choose life! She realized

she could not go through with the abortion. Praise God for intervening in Callie’s heart!

SPRING FLING DINNER AND AUCTION Thursday, April 25th at the scenic Prairie Landing Golf Club in West Chicago • New, exciting auction packages • Lively, entertaining professional auctioneer • Delightful dinner Join us there to help reach and save more women and children - both physically and spiritually!

CaringNetwork.com/events/ spring-fling.

BABY BANK SUPPLIES • Diapers (all sizes- opened packages accepted), wipes, baby lotion, shampoo, and wash, diaper cream, and formula • Look for the donation crib Sunday, April 7 outside the sanctuary • For the rest of April, crib will be near the Commons reception desk. After putting your items in the crib, please place the blanket on top.

Scan QR Code for Amazon ordering.

40 DAYS FOR LIFE PRAYER Saturday, April 20, 1:00-2:00 pm.

Join Sanctity of Human Life Task Force at 40 Days for Life’s yearround peaceful prayer vigil. Meet on Waterleaf pregnancy center’s property across from Planned Parenthood Aurora’s driveway.

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APRIL 2024 CONNECTIONS

M Y M A R R I AG E A N D M Y M ON E Y

M

Anonymous

y spouse and I have always been pretty fortunate that we haven’t had to worry about money. We both have jobs that pay well, we’ve both been employed steadily and have received good increases annually. When we desire to purchase something, we are generally able to charge it to a credit card and pay it off when the statement comes. The credit card generates cash back, so we feel we get a discount on the item purchased! Fortunately, we have very similar ideas about how to save and how to spend.

When we joined a church after we got married, we started hearing about Jesus Christ, his death on the cross and his resurrection. This was all very new to us as neither of us had been raised in a home by parents who believed in Jesus. It all seemed a little foreign to us that we were sinners in the first place as we both felt we led pretty good lives. Were we really sinners in need of forgiveness? Did we need to place faith in Jesus rather than in our ability to live good lives and accumulate resources that would protect us in our old age?

We began a Bible study with some friends who were in the church and said they were Christfollowers. We started in the gospels, and by the time we were finished with John, we both were convinced that we indeed needed a Savior. Here Jesus was, ready to be asked to come into our hearts and save us from our sins and inviting us to live with him forever. We kept studying the Bible with our friends, and not only did we become believers, but we learned how Jesus wanted us to live.

There was one small, or actually pretty big, barrier—our finances—our highly prized safety net and what set us apart from others we knew who struggled to make even small purchases. We counted on that nest egg. Verse after verse in the gospels, there were examples of believers giving money so that the kingdom of God could grow, so others could hear the gospel and accept Christ as their Savior. Should, or even could, we be doing that with some of our finances? The more we read the Scriptures, the more we were convicted that the love we had for our investments was truly a sin like an albatross around our necks.

1 Timothy 6:9-10 clearly states “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs”.

That’s exactly where we were, and we needed to repent and change. It wasn’t easy and it wasn’t instant. But reading our Bibles and praying together, over time we were able to set aside our “love” of money and instead embrace the “love” for our Savior, Jesus Christ. We started giving just a little and increased it again and again, and it really felt like we were beginning to rely on Jesus rather than on our ability to make wealth. If catastrophe occurred, and we lost everything like Job did, we would trust Jesus to provide not only for our earthly life, but for our eternity with him.

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