March 2022 Connections

MARCH 2022

CONNECTIONS L O C A L & G L O BA L S TO R I E S, N E W S A N D E V E N T S O F C O L L E G E C H U RC H

“We long with all our hearts to return to our home in Ukraine, but we have no idea when that will be possible.”

Read “A Go-Bag by the Door”

by Cheryl Warner on page 14.

LIFE LESSONS

I BELIEVE

GLOBAL VOICES

Calling All Christians: Love Your Enemies

Running the Race

Stories from Ukraine

JOSH MAURER | 6

MORGAN MOXLEY | 8

PAGES 11-16

TABLE OF CONTENTS PA GE 02

PAG E 12

March Highlights

Resiliant Faith CHAD AND LEANNA WIEBE

PA GE 04

PAG E 14

Prayer Gatherings

A Go-Bag by the Door

PA GE 05

CHERYL WARNER

From the Editor

PAG E 18

WIL TRIGGS

Christians United in Prayer

PA GE 06

SARAH LINDQUIST

Calling All Christians: Love Your Enemies JOSH MAURER

PAG E 19 Church Plant Update

PA GE 08 Running the Race

PAG E 20

MORGAN MOXLEY

At the Bookstall—New Titles

PA GE 09

PAG E 21

Getting to Know Pastoral Resident Josue Alvarado

The Living Word: Alive in Us

PA GE 10 Spotlight on Ukraine OLEKSANDR GEYCHENKO

PA GE 11

PAG E 22 Milestones

PAG E 23 Looking Ahead: March Preview

From Receiving to Sending

PAG E 24

ANITA DEYNEKA

Finding Your Way Around College Church

Our Pastors, Directors and Residents: Josue Alvardo, pastoral resident | Eric Channing, pastor of congregational care and family ministries Cheryce Berg, director of children’s ministries | 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 | Howard Kern, facilities director Bruce Main, interim pastor of visitation and care | Josh Maurer, pastor of discipleship | Curt Miller, missions pastor | Josh Moody, senior pastor Ben Panner, college pastor | Mindy Rynbrandt, director of women’s ministries | John Seward, executive pastor | Nancy Singer, director of administration and 4nance | Wil Triggs, director of communications | Michael Walker, pastoral resident Our Council of Elders: David Bea | Mark Berg | Howard Costley, chair | Dave Gieser, vice chair | Randy Jahns | Heinrich Johnsen DanLindquist|JoshMoody,seniorpastor|TomNussbaum|JeOslund|RogerSandberg|JeremyTaylor,secretary|TadWilliams

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

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 April issue: March 9 For the May issue: April 9 | For the June issue: May 9

CONTRIBUTORS JOSUE ALVARADO

JOSH MAURER

is a pastoral resident at College Church who is passionate for expositional preaching to communicateGodsWordeectively.

He enjoys spending time with his family, edifying con-versations with friends, drinking Honduran coffee and watching European soccer games.

Now pastor of discipleship, Josh Maurer previously served as a pastoral resident. He also teaches at Wheaton College as an adjunct professor in Bible and theology, where he is completing his PhD in New Testament and Biblical Theology. He and his wife, Caitlin, have four children.

JON DEMOSS is a senior at Wheaton College studying communications. He works as a furniture retoucher at Furniture Medics in Carol Stream. He loves the outdoors, photography and using Photoshop to create surreal imagery and concept art.

ANITA DEYNEKA serves with Mission Eurasia, an organization she and her husband, Peter, founded. She works with A Home For Every Orphan to help promote in-country Christian adoptions around the world. She has authored several books including A Song in Siberia and Christians in the Shadow of the Kremlin.

OLEKSANDR GEYCHENKО is the president of the Odesa Theological Seminary, one of the partner seminaries College Church supports around the world. Odesa is in the eastern area of Ukraine where Russia has invaded.

SARAH LINDQUIST serves with the Sanctity of Human Life Task Force. She homeschools her young sons and teaches violin, viola, and performing ensembles at Community School of the Arts at Wheaton College. When time allows, she enjoys working in her garden and admiring historic architecture.

MORGAN MOXLEY is a current graduate student at Wheaton College, and she is studying humanitarian and disaster leadership. She would like to use her skills as a writer to share stories about refugees in local and global communities. As a young member of College Church, she hopes to encourage her generation to continue to seek Christ and rely on his Word of truth.

CHERYL WARNER and her husband, Charley, serve with Barnabas International in Ukraine. They teach missions students and help churches mobilize and care for Ukrainian missionaries. They pray to be able to return soon to their home in Irpin.

CHAD & LEANNA WIEBE have served with SEND International for 27 years. They worked for 14 years in theological education with the Krasnoyarsk Bible College in Krasnoyarsk, Russia. For the past 13 years theyve been living in Kyiv, Ukraine, helping national churches train and send their own missionaries cross culturally. Currently, Chad is ministry director of SEND Ukraine.

COVER IMAGE: Stained glass detail from Irpin Bible Church in Irpin, Ukraine

MARCH HIGHLIGHTS SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP SERVICES

ADULT COMMUNITIES

Everyone welcome.

All meet during the 9:30 hour.

Join us at 8, 9:30 and 11 a.m. Masks and social distancing required for 8 a.m. Mask-optional services at 9:30 and 11 with no social distancing needed. Livestream broadcast is at 9:30 with a rebroadcast at 11. You can watch it at college-church.org/livestream

SERMON SERIES

ALL NATIONS in C101 Jim Tebbe looking at God’s mission—Book of Acts Focus: Developing globally minded Christians through teaching, discussion and fellowship for the purpose of gospel impact.

FORUM 15 in CL01 David Fetzer is leading the community in a study of Proverbs: Gaining the Wisdom Needed for Living God’s Way. Bruce Main will begin a study on the Life of Christ in April.

GREEK CLASS in the Board Room Jon Laansma (1 John) knowledge of Greek is not required for this class.

Focus: People of any age and background coming together to listen faithfully to Gods Word through discussion of the original Greek wording.

Prophet of Hope: Zechariah MARCH 6: Prophet of Hope: Zechariah, Zechariah 5:1-4 MARCH 13: Prophet of Hope: Zechariah, Zechariah 8:1-23 MARCH 20: TBD MARCH 27: TBD

SUNDAY EVENING WORSHIP SERVICES Everyone welcome.

5 p.m. in Commons Hall MARCH 6: Pastor Moody ( How Can We Foster Real Community?” in the Sanctuary at 5 p.m. and Community Celebration ice cream Sunday in Commons Hall.

MARCH 13: Titus 2:11-15, Pastor Ben Panner MARCH 20: Titus 3:1-2, Pastor Dan Hiben MARCH 27: Titus 3:3-7, Pastoral Resident Michael Walker

JOINT HEIRS in Commons Hall C104F Variety of topics—Special speakers LIFE TOGETHER COMUNITY (NEW) in Commons Gym Life Together is a group for people desiring authentic biblical community. All adults, ages 25–40, are welcome, including those who are single, married, widowed or divorced. Join us for a time of fellowship, teaching, discussion and prayer.

LOGOS in Commons Hall C104E Dan Haase and Dave Setran teaching Paul’s letter to the Philippians Focus: Strengthening knowledge of and relationship with God through interactive teaching of the Bible. Strong emphasis on building fellowship through weekly share and prayer time, as well as periodic social events.

LIVING WORD in Commons Hall C104 A&C Doug Moo/Josh Maurer teaching the Book of Hebrews VERITAS in Commons Hall C104 B&D Neil Wright teaching the Book of Revelation Young parents are welcome!

2

WOMEN’S MINISTRIES WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY Bible Study on Wednesdays in the Commons ( 9 : 3 0 1 a. m. or 6 : 4 5 - 8 : 1 5 p. m. ) as we study the Beatitudes together (Matthew 5:1-12).

MOM2MOM MARCH 7: Large Group Gathering at 9:30 a.m. in Commons Hall

relationships and create memories to last a lifetime. Well have tomahawk, crossbows, aerial archery, compound bows--and lunch for everyone!

COST: Dad: $30; first child: $30; $15 for each additional child includes a Box lunch. Gluten free and vegetarian options available. Waiver form is required.

MARCH 14: Gym Playdate at 9 : 3 0 a. m. in the Old Gym

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

MARCH 21: Book Club at 7 p.m. in the Fireside Area (chapters 7-8 of First Ask Why by Shelly Wildman)

GROUNDS DAY: Saturday, April 9 (Rain Date on April 16) Meet at 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Commons for refreshments and assignments for the spring clean-up around the church grounds. Bring a pair of gloves. Tools provided. Please register at: college-church.org/events

MARCH 28: Gym Playdate at 9 : 3 0 a. m. in the Old Gym

MONTHLY GATHERING MARCH 12: Join us at 9 a.m. in Commons Hall as we seek to focus our gaze on the eternal hope we have in Christ and see how the hope of heaven can change how we live today.

MISSIONS EVENTS

MEN’S MINISTRIES

on March 5 and April 9 in the Commons at 4 p.m.

MEN’S BIBLE STUDY

KEENAGERS

Bible Study on Wednesdays at 6 : 4 5 - 8 : 1 5 p. m. in the Commons C002A–C002B as we continue our study of 1 Peter 4 .

MULTI-NATIONS FELLOWSHIP

StudentsfromWheatonCollegeConservatorywillbe sharing the gift of music with us. Bethany Ray, junior in vocal performance, accompanied by Alissa Cox, piano and Kalie Foxwell, senior in piano performance.

This gathering for Keenagers (senior adults) is Friday, March 25, at 5:30 p.m. in the Commons. We begin with punch and fellowship, followed by dinner at 6, and 4nish with this musical presentation. Reservations (or cancellations) must be made by Tuesday, March 22. Meeting fee is $10 per person. Kindly RSVP by calling the church at (630) 668-0878 or emailing Keenagers@college-church.org.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES (KIDS’ HARBOR) MEN’S GATHERING

SUNDAYS

Saturday, March 12 in the Commons at 7:30 a.m.

• Breakfast • Worship • Testimonials • Devotional

Nursery (0-2) at 9:30 and 11 a.m.

FATHER AND CHILD ADVENTURE DAY

Preschool at 5 p.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 (preschool) at 11 a.m.

God’s Children Sing and Children’s Choirs at 5 p.m.

Saturday, March 5, in the Commons Gym at 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and then in the Commons Hall for lunch. Our Father and WEDNESDAYS Child Adventure Day will give dads (or father-figures) and Wednesday club programs at 6:45 p.m. their kids the opportunity to have fun, strengthen their

3

MIDDLE SCHOOL (KMS)

STARS

SUNDAY FOUNDATIONS: Meeting at 9:30 p.m. in the KMs room

SUNDAYS

KMS WEDNESDAY: 6:45 p.m. in the KMs room

INCLUSION CLASSES at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.

TEEN STARS at 9:30 a.m.

KMS WINTER RETREAT: March 11-13 at Phantom Ranch YOUNG ADULT/ADULT/MULTI-GENERATIONAL at 9:30 a.m.

Bible Camp, Mukwonaga, W . Registration closes March 6 YOUNG ADULT/ADULT is currently suspended at 11 a.m.

HIGH SCHOOL (HYACKS)

STARS CHOIR from, 5-6:15 p.m. Not meeting on March 27.

SUNDAY RHYTHMS: Sunday Mornings at 9:30 a.m. in the Crossings

DURING THE WEEK

SUNDAY SLAM: None (March 27 Spring Break, no Sunday SLAM)

PRAISE IN ACTION & STARS CHOIR: Wednesdays, 6:45-8:15 p.m. Not meeting on March 9 and 30.

SLAM GROUPS: March 6 and March 20, both at 6:45 p.m. at homes HYACKS SPRING RETREAT: March 11-13 at Dickson Valley, Newark, IL. Registration closes March 6

FRIDAY NIGHT FUN: Square Dance on Friday, March 18, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

BUDDY BREAK: Square Dance on Friday, March 18, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

COLLEGE GROUP NO SUNDAY COLLEGE GROUP: March 6 and March 13 COLLEGE CONNECT: March 20 in the Commons at 10:45 AM SUNDAY MORNING: 10:45 a.m. in the Commons HOME GROUPS: Monday-Wednesday at 7 p.m. in homes

PRAYER GATHERINGS ONLINE & IN PERSON HANNAH PRAYER FELLOWSHIP will meet on Wednesday, March 9 , at 1 : 3 0 p. m. in C1 0 1 in the Commons. Join the group as it hears an update from one of our missionaries and then spends time in prayer.

DORCAS PRAYER FELLOWSHIP

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. in C101 Monday Morning Prayer 6:15-7:15 a.m. Board Room Wednesday Night Prayer (Zoom only) 7-8 p.m.

Led by the Missions Office

will meet on Wednesday, March 2 3 ( note change from usual third Wednesday) , at 1 : 3 0 in The Upper Deck at Covenant Living at Windsor Park. Our speaker will be Giles Davis, telling about the work he and Debbie do in Spain. Men and women are welcome.

AARON-HUR PRAYER FELLOWSHIP Aaron-Hur Fellowship will meet on Thursday, March 24, at 7 p.m. at the home of Everett and Marcelyn Peterson, 1 2 7 Westminster Drive in Carol Stream ( 6 3 0 ) 7 8 4 - 0 5 6 9 .

OurguestswillbeJakeandHonahFinn,servinginThailand.

MARCH 2: Repeat Boutique/Linda Murphy MARCH 9: Tammy Lundell MARCH 16: Anita Deyneka MARCH 23: John Maust MARCH 30: Heather Owens Friday Prayer for the Persecuted Church (Board Room) 12-1 p.m.LedbyWilandLorraineTriggs.Theweeklyprayerguide is also available at our website: https://bit.ly/2ZkqQLA

4

Our Prayer Pulse email goes out every Monday. You can get prayer updates via that email. Sign up by clicking “Enews signup” on our website. If you already receive other emails from College Church, click “manage my preferences” at the bottom of any email and select Prayer Pulse to add yourself.

FROM THE EDITOR

A DIFFERENT PSALM

Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth set themselves, and t take counsel together, against the Lord and against his Anointed, saying, Let us burst thei and cast away their cords from us.” (Ps. 2:1-3) As we prepare this issue of Connections, the nations of Ukraine and Russia are at war. Kyiv is under seige. Four pastors from Ukraine visited College Church to learn how we do our pastoral residency program. We pray that they can get back home safely. With Ukraine on a precipice, we open our pages to missionaries and the partner seminaries and national workers there.

For me, Ukraine and Russia are the countries of my heart. As have been following the news here in Wheaton, think of a time many years ago when was at a church service in Ukraine. t was during the Soviet days. noticed a woman in a bridal dress in the front row. Marriage was so much a part of the church that the ceremony was held at the end of a Sunday morning service. The bride and groom sat in the front row. After sermons, songs, poetry and prayers, the pastor called them up. They exchanged vows and rings and were married. The Sunday morning service ended.

Afterwards, they invited me to their reception, a day and night celebration at a home. God brought me to this church on their wedding day. Or course said yes. was even in some of the wedding photos.

I don’t know how to describe the sense I had of feeling more at home there in that moment than anywhere else on earth. t was the strangest sense, think, of maybe heaven.

The churches and people in those countries have blessed me in so many ways. My service to them, looking back, seems like nothing compared to the grit, determination and love they bring to their people and others around the world. So, we make space in this issue of Connections for our missionaries a our brothers and sisters.

hadnevermetthemarriedcouplebeforethatdaynordo expecttosee themagaininthislife.Wemay not even recognize one another if we did. But wonder if we will sit close to one another when we are all the bride and the beloved Savior Christ triumphs over all the things of this world and puts everything right. Let the feast begin.

Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way, for his wrath is quickly kindled. Blessed are all who take refuge in him. (Psalm 2: 11-12)

WI L T RI GGS

5

JOSH MAURER, pastor of discipleship

L ove Yo u r E nemi es

CALLING ALL CHRIST I ANS:

Josh Maurer adapted this article from one he wrote in 2016 that was published on Talking Points blog at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids Michigan. You can read the original post here: https://bit. ly/3HbsVtw. It is our prayer that this post will begin to put language to our Christian call to “love our enemies” in a culture that is deeply divided along many fault lines. Our Christian identity—and the call to love—transcends

ing immersed in this brave new world (to say nothing of cable news channels).

I am under no illusion that this article will necessary questions that must be asked and answered. Yet, I do believe it will be a challenging, timely, and I hope helpful, contribution to the discussion.

How should Christians living in this chaos we know as post-2016 reality (Trump/ Biden, #metoo, George Floyd, BLM, January 6 Capitol riot and more) speak After two tumultuous presidential elec - and act as those whom Jesus described tions and the cultural upheaval that hasas salt of the earth and the light of the ensued, discussion surrounding the -in world? Many people, Christian and nontersection of evangelical faith and politicsChristian alike, were elated with Trump’s in America—whether coming from the election; many were devastated. The so-called right or left—has reached fever same holds for Biden. Many, in the face past six pitch. One only needs to peruse social of the cultural upheaval of the media for a few minutes before becom - years, have resolved to pray while many

6

others have protested. Some have done both; others have different stance than you on the cultural issues? I readily done neither. Some have even resorted to the very same admit I have noticed in myself a seed of resentment at violence and intolerance they once feared. What times. is clear And if I were a betting man, I would bet I’m not in all of this? America is deeply divided. Evangelicalism in alone. Now, don’t misunderstand, disagreement per se, America is deeply divided. Such division has manifested even strong disagreement, is not resentment, bitterness itself in a disturbing array of mentalities and behaviors or hatred. But as the prophet Jeremiah bluntly pointed fueled by entrenched ideologies from folks on both sides out: the heart is deceitful and desperately wicked. (Jer. of the proverbial political aisle. The climate has bred 17:9) It does not take long for healthy disagreement to more enemies, it seems, than allies. Now, as “strangers slide into sinful animosity. Test yourself. and exiles on the earth who desire a better country” (see Jesus commands us to be hungry for righteousness and Heb. 11:13-16), and as those who are “in the world but to love our enemies. In other words, to embody and work not of the world” (John 17:15-19), we are bound up in this for biblical justice and love those perpetrating injustice turmoil, for good and ill (hopefully more for good). So against us. This is difficult, indeed paradoxical. These two again, how should we speak and act as salt and light? aims often collide, for the enemies whom we are called to Wise contextual sense would have us look to the love Sermon are often the same ones who perpetuate genuine evil on the Mount in Matthew 5-7, for it is there we receive and injustice. So, how can we be hungry for righteousness this high calling in the world (5:13–14). And surely these (individual and systemic) and at the same time love our chapters are full of relevant words for the present enemies? Where do we get the resources for such a situation. For example, who among us would not benefit posture? It is precisely at this point where the severity of from dwelling with the seventh beatitude: “Blessed are this word gives way to sweetness for those saturated in the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” the gospel. ( 5 : 9 ) ? Or, more popular but no less powerful, the Golden You see, Jesus is not asking us to do something he has not Rule in Matthew 7 : 1 2 : Whatever you wish that others already done. Grounding, supporting and motivating our would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and acts of love for our enemies is God’s immeasurable act of the Prophets”? These truths are necessary and altogether love for his enemies us! Paul makes explicit in Romans worthy of extended reflection as we learn how to speak 5:10 that God reconciled us to himself by the death of and act as citizens of the kingdom of God in and for the his Son precisely “while we were enemies.” The parallel sake of the world. Nevertheless, I want to focus on one with verse 8 confirms that this reconciliation was ro particular command, which at once is so familiar and in divine love: “But God shows his love for us in that while yet still so foreign—one that is both painfully severe and we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” The only hope preciously sweet. I’m referring to the command to love we have of obeying Jesus’ command to love our enemies, our enemies. and thus be salt and light, is to be reminded of, humbled It is worth quoting in full: “Love your enemies and pray by and to delight in, the God who loves us. As the apostle for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of John said, We love because he first loved us. ( 1 John 4 : 1 9 ) your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on We are mirrors designed to reflect in this world, among the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and other things, and however imperfectly, the matchless love on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what of God. reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the Therefore, in these days our task is not simply to love our same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are political and cultural allies (the “good” or “just” of Matthew you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the 5)—after all, what reward is in that?—but to love our same? You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly political and cultural enemies (the “evil” and the “unjust”), Father is perfect.” (Matt. 5:44-48) and so demonstrate that we are “sons of [our] Father in Even a surface reading reveals its severity, for we do not heaven.” (5:45) Perhaps then, as a result, the world would naturally love our enemies but hate (or at the very least, understand why Jesus calls us the salt of the earth and the dislike) them. In fact, the very idea of loving our enemies— light of the world. praying for them and seeking to do them good—seems at best counterintuitive and at worst suicidal. Test yourself.

How have you responded to those who voted differently than you did? How do you interact with those, Christian or non-Christian, who are across the political aisle? How have you engaged with fellow evangelicals who take a

7

I BELIEVE

Running the Race MORGAN MOXLEY

When was a young child, decided to dedicate my liferecognize to the truth of the gospel. I have to truly seek follow Christ, and attended College Church since I was a wisdom from Gods Word of truth before can offer advice child, but I have recently learned my responsibilities as an to others. I have been blessed by loving teachers, friends, adult who is a Christian. With the support fromneighbors leaders and parents to help me in my journey of faith. in College Church, I have grown in my faith, trusting in As I look forward, I have fears and doubts about God’s the Lord to lead me in trials and difficult circumstances. plan for my life. My friend Emily reminded me that God My pastors and small group leaders encouraged me to does redeem his people, even though our faith in his become baptized, which I did here at College Church in promise is shaky. From Gods Word, have been reading 2015. This year, I became a member of College Church to the story of Ruth, which offers insight into God’s provision encourage others about my faith. Though I cannot ever in times of famine, despair and confusion. Ruth and Naomi explain God’s grace me, I thank him for sending his Son trusted in the Lord to provide bread for their household into the world to save lost sinners, to save me. As John and sustenance for their daily labors. They needed Boaz declares in his gospel: “But to all who did receive him, who to help redeem their household, and he did. God never believed in his name, he gave the right to become children left them, even when they felt like they were in a crisis. of God, who were born, not of blood nor the will of the In the body of Christ, we have the responsibility to share flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.” (John 1:12-13) our gifts to sustain each member. Recently, I have decided As a student at Wheaton College, have learned about to become the a member of College Church to equip me as importance of the written word to teach the gospel of Jesus a leader in my community. I believe that every member Christ. Lately, God has been teaching me to depend upon of our community has skills to share the gospel of Christ his Word as the source of my light and my salvation. n my All in all, I have a grateful heart for the teaching of Christ in academic and spiritual pursuits, I want to use my skills as a my life, which I have received from my family, friends and writer, athlete and teammate to proclaim God’s message of College Church leaders. I continue to run the race of faith, salvation. When rely on my own strength to endure trials trusting in God to help with each step. As Jesus said, “I am and temptations, I fail to obey God’s commands. I need to the way, the truth, and the life. No one learntodependonChristtogivemesustaininglifeandhope. comes to the Father except through When runners decide to race a marathon, they set me.” goals (John 14:6) In his dying breath, for each individual mile. They keep pace with each step, Jesus forgave the sinners on his focusing on the ultimate goal to finish the 26.2-mile race. right and left hands, granting In my race as a Christian, I need to run forward for the goal them eternal life. We can of pleasing God. One of my teammates used to always believe that God has say this: “Life is like a steeplechase race; you can never finished the battle over anticipate the next hurdle, so you must press forward with our sin, forgiving us and endurance for the whole race.” This motivation for racing giving us new life. I hope to applies to many other areas of life. I need to perform continue to grow in my for Christ each day, whether I stride over the hurdles proclamation of the good news gracefully or trip over them. When complete the race, of our freedom as God’s can confidently say that God was with me, running before redeemed people. me to lead me and give me strength.

Also, I have been struggling to have confidence to boldly proclaim the gospel. I want to preach to familiar faces, but I know that I must also speak to those who do not

8

S ID E B Y S ID E

Getting to Know Pastoral Resident Josue Alvarado TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND. WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Growing up in my country, Honduras, I was blessed by the guidance of my family and my local church where I came to faith in Christ and served for many years. Later, I was working as a civil engineer and realized that I did not have enough time to invest in making disciples through the church, which is what I love to do most. God provided a Bible school in Texas where I was trained to handle the Bible better. After graduating I worked as a pastoral assistant for four years in Chicago and had the opportunity to take the Charles Simeon Trust Chicago course on preaching where found great support and guidance.

our last games was during a rainy morning, but we still played in the muddy field. It was worth it, because after the game, we went to drink tea with them and had more opportunities to know these young guys and keep sharing the love of Jesus with them.

Withallkindsofchallengesandbarriers,wewereabletoshare the gospel in a place where Christians are persecuted for their faith. I thought, How much more should we share the gospel in areaswherewehavefreedomandresourcesavailable.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR FAMILY—WIFE/KIDS? My wife, Kristen, and my daughters Zoey and Taya are the ones with whom I play, laugh, read, pray and learn to love God more every day. By God’s grace, we are expecting a baby in themonthofJuneforwhomwepraytoloveChristaswedo.

HOW DID YOU COME TO FAITH AND WHAT LED TO THE COLLEGE CHURCH RESIDENCY PROGRAM? Growing up in a Christian environment, I knew how to act as WHAT ABOUT THE SPIRITUAL PLACE OF HONDURAS? a Christian, but became a follower of Jesus once I understood In 2015 I lead a group of 12 Rio Grande Bible College thetruthoftheWordofGod.Mymentorwalkedmethrough students from different countries on a mission trip to Ephesians 2:8-9, and it was then that I was convinced that my country, Honduras. We provided school supplies and faithinChristwasenough,andwassafeinhim.

Bibles for students of low-income areas and had a week of missions conference, to encourage different churches I prayed for many years to be part of a healthy church where to reach out all the nations for God’s glory. It is a good I could learn from biblical leadership, sound doctrine and reminder of the great physical needs that people in godly men from whom I could learn, and that is exactly what Honduras have and an even greater need to hear the good I found at College Church. I am thankful for godly men and news of Jesus Christ. womenwhomodelChristtomeandmyfamily.

WHAT THREE WORDS BEST DESCRIBE YOU? WHEN YOU LOOK AHEAD, DO YOU HAVE A SENSE OF Dependable, approachable, competitive. (This is from my HOW YOU WOULD LIKE THE RESIDENCY TO HELP YOU wife. Thank you for the suggestion. ) IN FUTURE MINISTRY? As I serve and learn from godly men and women at College Church, I aim to follow the same pattern wherever God leads me. I want to make disciples through the local church and lead them to do the same as commanded by His Word.

FAVORITE HANG-OUT PLACE? I like to find new coffee shops or parks (not in the winter) to drink coffee and read. I enjoy playing soccer and watching my favorite team, Barcelona F. C.

DO YOU KNOW SOME OF YOUR FIRST ASSIGNMENTS IS THERE A STORY IN YOUR STORY THAT YOU COULD AS A RESIDENT? SHARE? WE WANT TO HELP PEOPLE GET TO KNOW I will be assisting the discipleship area (men’s group and YOU A BIT. small groups particularly). I will be speaking on March 11I remember sleeping on a small island in India for a mission 1 3 on the HYACKs spring retreat and supporting WOW at trip, the temperature was so hot and uncomfortable that 1 a. m. on Sundays.

I am not sure if I slept that night, but it was worth it. Two friends and I had the opportunity to lead a soccer camp I preached the evening of Super Bowl Sunday. I love and teach the gospel to people from the area; many of preaching Gods Word. enjoy preparing, praying and Gods Word for Gods people. them never had the chance to hear the gospel. studying One of

9

A Word from Odessa Theological Seminary, one of our partner seminaries

Spotlight on Ukraine

GL OBA L VOI CES

Dear friends and partners: movement towards its final goal. He does this in an implicit, hidden, yet irresistible way. The kingdom of this world will one day become the kingdom of God. We do not doubt it! So, we just keep doing what we are called to do, even though we know that something is going on.

We keep praying to the Lord, trusting him, and following his way. We ask you to join our prayers at this crucial On the one hand, what you are hearing about now on period for our country. Please, pray: the news is basically what we have been living with for the last eight years. The war goes on. Casualties are · For the resolution of the situation, for stable peace between Russia and Ukraine, for the deocupation regular. Negotiations are futile. The rumours of an and reintegration of Donetsk, Luhansk and Crimea. invasion intensify from time to time. Speaking about As you know, Ukraine is on many people’s radar these days and in the news again due to the threat of the highly probable invasion of our country by Russian military forces. Because of this, many people have been asking me how we are doing here, and what our perspective on the situation is.

life in general, we do not observe any panic around us · For Ukrainian churches to be able to witness and or serious preparations being made. Life goes on as preach the gospel during these times, and to bring a usual. Almost. We are used to it. On the other hand, the message of peace and of God’s rule to all those who situation is also very much different from what we have need it. been living with. Possibly, Ukraine has never seen such an intensive exchange of diplomatic visits and talks, · For Odesa Theological Seminary to keep serving churches by educating students and providing such a heavy influx of military aid from international educational resources to those who are called by God partners, and such a flow of sensational publications in to ministry. world news regarding the dates and plans of a Russian invasion. All this makes us realise that the situation is complex and very serious.

But above all these things, there is the reality of God’s kingdom. God rules over history and directs its

10

In Christ, Oleksandr Geychenk President of Odesa Theological Seminary February 9, 2022

GL OBAL V OI C ES

From Receiving to Sending ANITA DEYNEKA Ukraine has been a part of my life ever since I married my husband, Peter, back in 1968. His parents were born in neighboring Belarus, but Ukraine was also connected to his mother’s family heritage. After the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, Ukraine became one of the republics of the communist Union of Soviet Socialist Republic (USSR). n the 1920s during the famine that swept many parts of the USSR, my mother-in-law, Vera, and her family walked many miles into Ukraine, and on these trips seeking food and survival.

At age 16, my father-in-law, Peter, had been sent by his parents to Chicago to earn money to send home to his large, impoverished family. Another immigrant told him he could learn English at the Moody Church, where he found and a headquarters for Russian Ministries (now Mission Jesus, and soon wanted to share more than money with his Eurasia) near Kiev. n the late 90s the light of the gospel family—he wanted to share the good news of the gospel shone globally from Ukraine, as that nation became a leader with his family and others in Belarus, Ukraine and beyond. in believing that orphans and vulnerable children should Peter Sr. returned home and met Vera, who would be best cared for by Christians—by families in their own walk 12 miles one way to attend church. The two returned country of birth. One young Ukrainian leader, prayed that together to Chicago and started a mission, the Slavic Gospel Ukraine would become a Ukraine Without Orphans.( That Association (SGA) to serve their own people, as communism prayer became the momentum for churches and Christians acrossthecountrytounitearoundthevisionofOneChurch, sought to stamp out religion. Later, my husband, Peter, and I also worked with SGA during the communist years, OneFamily,OneOrphan.( Andsoon, theallianceofUkraine as that ministry focused on printing and delivering Bibles WithoutOrphansbecameaparadigmandchallengetomany and Christian books and producing broadcasts transmitted other countries, even as Ukrainians took leadership helping establishaglobalnetwork,WorldWithoutOrphans. into the USSR from 1 shortwave Christian radio stations.

During that period, Peter and I were permitted to travel to the USSR for a few times, until we were later denied visas for 13 years—particularly after writing books documenting the persecution of Christians.

The Ukraine Without Orphans movement first took root in eastern Ukraine in Slavyansk and Mariupol, cities which were devastated during Russia’s attack on Ukraine in 2014. I remember being with Christians there in 2011 and When communism began to collapse in 1 9 8 9 and it was hearing how followers of Jesus were opening their hearts possible to return, Ukraine was our first destination. and homes to orphans—which had not been permitted in communist years. Then came the attacks from Russia We returned with great joy to again be with Christian against Ukraine in 2014, with suffering and some fighting brothers and sisters in this beloved country. With religious freedom, followers of Christ could now share their faith that has continued ever since. At that time, Ukrainian without fear of restriction, repression--and even prison Christians took the lead in evacuating orphans and or death as had also happened under communism. vulnerable children. My Ukrainian friends told me that There was cavernous spiritual hunger and the gospel the government in Slavyansk looked to them to help in spread widely in Ukraine—now a country in the former other ways with organizing evacuations and humanitarian Soviet Union, which came to have the most Christians in assistance during the heaviest days of the battles. proportion to the population.

After Peter’s death in 1991, evangelism, church-planting, theological education and many ministries for children, which had just begun, continued under Ukrainian leadership

In these especially uncertain days, I am thinking a lot about Ukraine—and praying, and so much prayer is needed as God’s people care for the vulnerable and at-risk far away from the world’s geo-political stage.

11

Resilient Faith Chad and Leanna Wiebe

Ukrainians well remember 2014. It was the year of Maidan, the turnover of government in Kyiv and the startup of war in Donbas, eastern Ukraine. Church buildings were looted, Bible school campuses overrun and turned into military barracks. Families were forced to abandon their homes, leaving behind everything they owned. Believers well remember how by God’s grace they responded to the waves of refugees coming from the east. In churches, mattresses were spread on sanctuary floors and church offices to make room for those needing places to rest. Soup kitchens were created, and trucks of food and clothes sent to churches in the east. Words do not express the pain that Ukrainians still feel today. It was not an easy time, but it was a time of unique

12

opportunities to show and share of the love of Christ.

It was also a time when more and more churches were talking about the call of missions—a call to take the gospel to places and peoples with no witness or access to God’s Word. A coalition of churches gathered in Kiev for a missions conference to discuss “Missio Dei”—The Mission of God. The word “unreached” began taking root in the missions vocabulary of certain Bible studies, churches and Bible schools.

Some churches, while helping refugees, continued sending teams to work with the unreached in Russia and Central Asia.

We watched as believers, battling with feelings otherwise, stood to commission teams to go where they felt they might not be well received. Feelings of fear and hurt were overcome by long earnest

prayers for the salvation of others. Some would pray, “Not glory to Ukraine, Lord, but glory to Christ!” accompanied by whispers of “Amen.” This is the power of God doing what many might not expect.

“W ord s do no t ex pr es s t he pa i n t ha t Uk r a i ni a ns s t i l l f eel t o da y . ”

former Soviet Union. By God’s grace it is also becoming a missions hub for reaching the nations around her. This year, not one, but two large missions conferences will be held in Ukraine. These conferences are designed to underscore the critical need to plant churches among the more than 160 distinct unreached ethnic groups, representing over 90 million people, in Eurasia and Central Asia. The Lord is raising up short-term teams to begin the process of engaging these people groups with the gospel.

And, by God’s grace, dozens of Ukrainians have already moved into full-time missions. These are servants of the cross, sent and supported by their local churches for the purpose of reaching other peoples and nations for Christ.

Also, Crimean Tatars (CTs) in Southern Ukraine due to the annexation of the peninsula on the Black Sea began migrating north. For decades, ethnic barriers, the lack of Scriptures in their own language and lack of vision among churches in Ukraine for missions, little progress was made in reaching these people with the gospel. But the conflict THE JOSHUA PROJECT indicates that there caused many CTs to begin moving north and into Europe. As are 370 unreached people groups (UPGs) a result, they met believers and churches ready to receive across the 15 countries of the former Soviet them. Some CTs said, Weve never been in a Christian Union, totaling over 93 million people. If this list church before. We are impressed. ( Warm introductions is reduced to include only those distinct groups were made to the way of salvation through Christ. These that spread over several countries of Eurasia, are things you will not read about in newspapers or hear then it can be said that there are 160 distinct in media outlets. Weekly prayer meetings in city squares unreached people groups across the countries were also organized across Ukraine. of the former Soviet Union.

For years we have been running a Bible study course They are “unreached” because less than 2% of on missions based on Perspectives of the World Christian their populations are is evangelical Christian.

Movement, called Kairos, training short-term team leaders Also, no known active church planting work is and conducting missions conferences to help believers underway among these peoples. Now, more throughout Ukraine grapple with the call to take the than ever, is the time for both growing churches message of Christ to all nations. Slowly this call is being in Eurasia and calling believers from around the embraced. But it has not been without some push back. globe to press forward together with intentionality One pastor, after a seminar on cross- cultural ministry, said and focus to reach these UPGs for Christ. (Psalm Why send our people to Africa? We live in Africa, right 67:1-3; Matt. 28:18-20; Rev. 7:9-10) here, with unbelievers all around us!” Some months later another pastor looked at me and asked, “How long has your mission been working in Ukraine?” I said, “25 years.”

Twenty-4ve years?!( he said, and only now you are helping us better understand the biblical teaching and task of reaching the nations. Why didnt you start sooner?( His church association is now training and sending missionaries.

There is no question that God is at work in our world moving his people during times of uncertainty to pray, give and go. And Ukrainians are showing us that when the going gets tough, stay calm, keep believing and trust God to do great things for his name.

It’s now 2022. And, despite the challenges and complexities COMMUNION AT of COV D over the past two years along with the festering, COLLEGE CHURCH eight-year crisis of war in the east, Ukrainians continue to MARCH 6 send their own to places and peoples around them. For years Ukraine has been considered the Bible Belt of the

13

A Go-Bag by the Door Cheryl Warner Since 2018, Charley and I have lived in Irpin, Ukraine, home of the Ukrainian Baptist Union headquarters. We work with the Baptist Union to help churches develop plans to care for the missionaries they are sending to other countries. We also teach Ukrainian missions students a course on the spiritual life of the crosscultural missionary. Being part of Irpin Bible Church has been a highlight of living in this rapidly growing suburb of Kyiv.

We live in a house across the street from the field office of Mission Eurasia, founded by Peter and Anita Deyneka.

Anita was one of my professors at Wheaton College Graduate School and having Mission Eurasia as a neighbor is a sweet connection with my Wheaton world. The house is ideally suited for hosting overnight guests and groups, and we offer it as a place of rest and renewal for visiting missionaries and students, as well as a gathering place to study the Bible and pray. In November we hosted global workers supported

by Irpin Bible Church during missions month—one woman working in Kazakhstan and a Muslim-background believer from Morocco who works among Muslims in Odesa. This believer’s wife is Ukrainian, and their four children brought a lot of life into our home. In December a couple who did youth ministry in Tajikistan and a former student who worked in Uganda came to debrief pray about future ministry.

14

We are one of three host families for a small group from our church that meets on Tuesday evenings. Every Wednesday women meet in our home to study the Book of Acts and pray for each other.

One is a brand-new believer who is eager to learn and has never missed a week. Our group now meets on Zoom, but we are missing lingering after the study with a cup of tea by the fireplace.

When we left our home in Irpin on December 13 to spend Christmas with our daughters, we had no idea that in a couple months we would not be able to live in that house ourselves. Charley returned to Ukraine January 17, and my return was delayed and rescheduled for February 1. But by January 23 tensions between Russia and Ukraine had escalated sharply, and the U.S. State Department issued a level four travel advisory, urging U.S. citizens to leave the country. Upon the advice of our mission leadership, Charley left on January 27 on a flight covered by our evacuation

insurance, and didnt go back. We are currently staying economy, infrastructure and suffer from energy and with Charleys father in Venice, Florida. We long with informational all challenges. The war of a low intensity is our hearts to return to our home in Ukraine, but we have already going on. . . . no idea when that will be possible.

We are grateful to our brothers and sisters for thei prayers and intercession. Please, stand with us as we are standing for freedom, independence, peace and life! “ Wh e n we l e ft o ur ho m e i n I r pi n o n D ecemb er 13

t o sp e n d C h ri s t m a s w i t h o ur da ug ht er s , w e h a d n o id e a t h a t i n a co upl e m o nt hs w e w o u ld n o t b e a b le t o l i v e i n t ha t ho us e o ur s el v es . ”

Elijah Brown, general secretary of the Baptist Worl Alliance, recently visited Ukraine and described in a video the dire situation in the Donbas region, controlled by Russian-backed separatists since 2014.

If past is prologue, if the occupation of these territories Our absence from Ukraine made the timing of our is a foreshadow of what may come to Ukraine, it Ukrainian pastors visiting College Church February 18should lead all of us to pray with greater fervor. In 23 all the more meaningful to us. Charley worked with one of those occupied territories the Baptist churches the missions office long ago to set up this visit with four were declared to be officially terrorist organizations, pastors from Irpin Bible Church who were planning to as was the Baptist Union of Ukraine. More than 40 attend a conference in the U.S. They came to College Baptist churches were forced to shut down or to go Church to learn about the pastoral residency program. into hiding. The Baptist hymnal was outlawed as How grateful we are to be part of two gospel-centered extremist material, ( as was the Gospel of John. One churches with similar passions for training leaders and of the pastors from those territories told us that sending missionaries. Introducing our two church families the persecution they’re facing today is worse than to each other was a landmark moment for us, especially at anything they faced during the time of communist this juncture in Ukraine’s history as they are living under USSR. Yet in the midst of these challenges, along the the threat of military attack. disputed territories in what they call the gray zone, CHURCHES PREPARE TO HELP DURING WARTIME the Baptists have been serving. They’ve invested more than two million dollars into aid, relief and community Church ministries in Ukraine have been continuing as development. Over the last five years the Baptists h usual, with some added preparations for what might started 25 new churches. come. Irpin Bible Church held a first-aid training and is prepared to use its facilities as a point for medical OnFebruarya 19 pastorweknowpersonallyinthegrayzone assistance. Prayer meetings were held at 8 p.m. each sent this message to the missionary care team we work with: evening for a week. Igor Bandura is one of the pastors at Thank you for your prayers. Our city is calm so far. our church and the vice president for international affairs But in the morning, as a result of shelling, a water for the Baptist Union. On January 2 6 he wrote, treatment plant was damaged, so we have no water in As the leadership of Ukrainian Baptist Union, we are neighboring cities either. Pray for missionaries K and M closely working with all our pastors on the action in Avdiivka, where they have been shooting since five plan for every church and every regional association. in the morning, that God will protect their family and Our churches predominantly in western Ukraine are give them the opportunity to leave the affected area preparing for the possibility to host internally displaced at the right time. Thank you all! There is a powerful people from the territories that may be occupied. attack to provoke the Ukrainian army to respond. The We are working on clear recommendations for both military had a particularly hard time yesterday when families who would leave the areas of the possible there was a direct hit in a kindergarten in Stanytsia war and those who would have to stay. . . . Many Luhanska. Pray that God will give our military strength churches are making cash reserves, collecting food to withstand these provocations. and water, and making decisions on how to inform While news reports are alarming, wise pastors remind us church members and stay in touch in case of internet where our hope lies. Sergiy Sologub, small group pastor collapse. Our pastors in many places are discussing at Irpin Bible Church, shared an encouraging video on the and preparing their members and church facilities to church Telegram channel on February 16: serve neighbors in the most difficult situations.

The war is very realistic and highly probable but we experience also the daily hybrid attacks on our

Brothers and sisters, good morning. Many of us are glad that we woke up this morning, that there wasn’t

15

any invasion. God gives mercy. My wife and I were pondering yesterday what has encouraged us and comforted us. We remembered the past. God has blessed us all. He has given us children. He has blessed us with a place to live, blessed us with a good church.

In the past he has never forsaken us. Remember how God has upheld you, each of you, how he has really cared for all your needs, for your family. Therefore, since he has never forsaken us in the past, he will not leave us in the present or the future. He is faithful.

That comforted us, encouraged us, so I decided to share these words with you today. May God bless you this day. Go with God.

protection and strength—if it is Your will, then protect our country from any war.

And if not, give strength and skills to our military to withstand.

And keep us in the company of enemies, as You once saved Daniel in the face of all enemies. Change, Almighty Father, this bad situation for our good.

Lord Jesus, provide remarkable wisdom, prudence and foresight in crisis management to our President and ozcia And give them an uncharacteristic desire for unity, unanimity and cooperation for the good of the people.

GREAT GOD, THE ONLY ONE, PRESERVE OUR COUNTRY

REMAINING TRUE TO THE FAITH The amazing women in my Bible study grew up in the Soviet Union and understand what it means to trust God during times of hardship and persecution. Under stress, POSTING THE TRUTH but not panicking, they are applying the Scriptures to Scrolling through social media posts we see some this situation. After our review of Acts 1-12 on February disturbing opinions that mirror the propaganda 9, they prayed that Ukrainian believers would be “one that is disseminated. In sharp contrast to the in heart and mind” and ready to help people in need, as lies that are published, a Russian pastor simply the early church did ( Acts 4 : 3 2 ) . On February 1 6 , studying quoted Deuteronomy 27:17: Paul’s first missionary journey, we saw that when a plot to stone Paul in Iconium was discovered, he left that town, “Cursed is anyone who moves their neighbor’s and that was the right thing to do. Later God allowed Paul boundary stone.” Then all the people shall to be stoned and left for dead, but Paul and Barnabas say, “Amen!” continued preaching the gospel and returned to the new Peter Mitskevich, chairman of the Russian Baptist churches they had started, “strengthening the disciples Union and encouraging them to remain true to the faith.

We and president of Moscow Theological Seminary, wrote on February 19: must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,’ they said” (Acts 14:22). I see these Ukrainian women “BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS!!!!! for they facing hardships with acceptance, placing their hope in shall be called sons of God.” Matt. 5:9—the God. With a go- bag by the door, they are still looking for words of the Lord Jesus Christ from the Sermon other people they can encourage and help in time of need. on the Mount.

Mikola Romaniuk, senior pastor of Irpin Bible Church, was with us at College Church on February 20 and asked us to pray for peace in Ukraine and peace in Russia. Hear his heartfelt prayer, posted on February 18: PRAYER ON THE EVE OF THE GREAT WAR Lord God, Creator of the world, who gives everything being and meaning. You have given our people a land where you mercifully preserve us in the face of our disunity, hostility to common sense, and short-sightedness.

Have mercy on us and forgive us, Ukrainians, for our domestic atheism and situational-holiday piety. Forgive us for destroying our families with infidelity, our bodies with addictions, and our communities with indifference.

Lord God, in the face of an incomparably stronger, more aggressive and extremely hostile neighbor, offer Your

16

MaytheLordhavemercyonusfromWAR,from bloodshed. HOW CAN PEACE BE CREATED? Two fraternal peoples, RUSSIANS and UKRAINIANS, have lived together for centuries. But as sin and pride once divided man from God, now repentance is needed to have peace with God. . . We need to SEEK F RST OF ALL GODS PEACE in our HEARTS! And then we can forgive, we can accept, protect. JO N THE PRAYER for K NGS and COMMANDERS to lead us to live a quiet, serene life, so that Gods Word spreads (1 Timothy 2:4). Lord, forgive and have mercy, and grant mercy so that there is no war of brother against brother.

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT JON DEMOSS As an artist, I feel like I’m constantly collaborating with God. I derive inspiration from the beautiful creation that surrounds me, and then try to represent that beauty to the best of my ability. By creating art, I hope to remind people of the sacredness and profundity of their very existence.

DANIEL SUNSET 4

D G TAL / CONCEPT ART

CE GOLD

C AMER ATA CHIC AGO CH AMBER ORCHE S TR A

Golden Age of Baroque Concert Tartini Trumpet Concerto with fantastic trumpeter Travis Heath

3 p.m. Saturday April 23, 2022 College Church, Wheaton In a celebration of the Golden Era of Baroque, trumpeter Travis Heath performs the Tartini Trumpet Concerto and Handel’s Trumpet Concerto with Camerata Chicago conducted by Maestro Drostan Hall. Camerata Chicago will perform the Concerto Grosso Alexander’s Feast by Handel and a variety of baroque and lyrical classics in a program which heralds the delights of spring.

TICKETS AVAIL ABLE AT: Camerata Chicago Tickets (ticketleap.com) Use coupon code CCCC for a 25% DISCOUNT After Discount: Adult $37.50; Senior: $30; Students: $8; Children $1.50.

Discount coupon available online only and not at the door.

cameratachicago.org 17

LOCA L L Y S OUR CED

Christian Sisters and Brothers United in Prayer Sarah Lindquist Praying outside of abortion centers has encouraged me in ways I did not expect. Connecting with fellow members of Christ’s family spurs me on and turns my thoughts toward Christs return.

I have been so encouraged to persevere by Don, a faithful sidewalk counselor on Saturdays. His gentle grandfatherly demeanor is disarming and approachable as he shares pro-life brochures with those who choose to roll down their windows on the way in or out of Planned Parenthoods driveway.

Midweek at Auroras Planned Parenthood, would- encoun terawhite-hairedmannamedWally.Hesatperchedonhis stool at the edge of the street, wearing a fedora and holding a large sign. After a few months of sitting at the vigil site, he tearfully sobbed that his ex-wife had an abortion with and snuggling a tiny baby in a Baby Bjorn front carrier. his support. Later, he watched the 4lm, The Silent Scream( An older African woman from South Carolina coming to and realized what had really happened during his ex-wife’s pray alone in her vintage lawn chair. She often prayed at abortion. He now called out to those entering Planned Parthe vigil site while staying with family for a few months. enthood, ts not safe in there.( How true.

Football players in letterman jackets from a parochial

high school lined up in prayer. Two women tightly hudCatherine Walker introduced herself as we sweated in the dled under an umbrella and praying in Spanish. Tears of summer heat. She has served as a 40 Days for Life prayer joy and sadness rise to the surface. How wonderful to see vigil site leader at Aurora’s Planned Parenthood for years. others who call upon the Lord but what a dark reason After a few times of running into each other at the site, draws us together in prayer. I think of the new heaven Catherine and I shared tears for innocent lives lost. Then and new earth when I pray outside Access Downers Grove she told me her story. or Planned Parenthood Aurora. With my Christian sister For years,nobody atherchurchknewaboutherfour abor and brothers, I long for no more death, no more tears and tions. Catherine’s healing journey began after she heard no more innocent lives lost—and praising God with those her pastor and a couple of congregants speak in a church I’ve met in prayer. service at Christ Community Church in St. Charles about their abortion experiences. The healing process then led her into pro- life ministry leadership at her church, Join thealong Sanctity of Human Life Task Force prayer for the with her friend Ricki. Catherine and fellow 40 Days for Life unborn, their parents, abortion industry workers and site leader, Ricki Giersch, have generously shared advoour community. cacy advice and connections with me over the phone and Saturday, March 19, 1-2 p.m. in emails. ( To hear an interview featuring Catherine and Ricki interviewed, start https://www.40daysforlife. at 7 : 0 ParkatMarianosorbehindAutoZoneandmeetonWaterleaf com/en/healing-the-wounds-of-abortionpodcast-seapregnancy resource center’s property across from Planned son-4-episode-47).

ParenthoodAurorasdriveway.

I’ve encountered others in prayer who have made a lasting impression. A young mom, clad in running apparel, praying the Lord’s Prayer with her preschooler at her side,

18

Sign up athttps://college-church.org/impact/sohl/ to receive SOHL monthly e-newsletter to receive events schedule and life-related news.

SI DE B Y S I D E

Church Plant Update: Christ Church South Metro Atlanta February 2022 WecontinuetothankGodforeachofyouandyourinterest, their homes with God’s grace and youth who transition prayers and support of this new work of the gospel in South well into Christian adulthood. Please pray that God would Metro Atlanta. My hope for these updates is to keep you give us vision for how we can best play our part in the Great informed of the Lord’s work in us and through us as the Commission and passing on the baton of ministry. most recent church plant of College Church.

Nods to Our College Church Roots. It has been a joy to Covenant Sunday. On January 9 , the first members ofincorporate some College Church elements into our first Christ Church gathered together to covenant with one gatherings as a church family. I texted Josh Moody a few another in Christ and for the gospel. We had a weeks sweet ago and asked him to share his typical benediction service of praying, singing, hearing Gods Word, and with me. It has been a joy to close our services the same reading and signing our Church Covenant together. It was way College Church commissions their people: The Lord a beautiful evening. Ben and Joanna Panner were present bless you and keep you and be gracious to you and give you as representatives from College Church, which made it all peace so that the whole earth might see his salvation and all the sweeter. Please pray that our church covenant would be nations his glory. Amen. brought to life in the lives of our members as we journey by faith together.

First Sunday of Gathered Worship. Despite a snowstorm for the first time in years in Atlanta, we had a wonderful First Sunday of gathered worship on January 1 6 . We sang, prayed, heard a testimony from Lois Krogh, and preached from Galatians 1 : 1 - 5 . We had about twenty people express interest in church membership. We were grateful that Curt Miller joined us on that Sunday. If you would like to see photos from our First Sunday, you can do so here. Please pray that the Lord would use our church plant as an outpost for the gospel and its power!

God Centered Life

Beginning Life Together as a Church Family. Our fellowfeatures the Bible teaching of Pastor Josh. ship and discipleship ministries ozcially started. Every This exciting ministry with a global reach member at Christ Church participates in a Community continues to grow in impact through Group (groups of 20-25 people that meet monthly with podcasts, online and on the radio. Here in a meal) and a Discipleship Cohort (groups of four to six people who meet weekly). Our cohorts are going through Unfolding Grace, a study published by Crossway. Please pray that the Lord would strengthen our members as they see the big picture of God’s redemption in Scripture.

the US, the program is heard on the radio

in about 70 locations. You can listen locally on Moody Radio (WMBI) at 10 p.m. M-F and 7:30 p.m. on Sunday and can have daily

devotionals delivered right to your inbox.

Praying, Dreaming, Praying. As the Lord establishes us as a church family, we are eager to begin equipping the Your prayers and partnership with this saints and training and sending gospel workers. I see this ministry are greatly appreciated. as a key initiative for why the Lord has called us to plant a church in South Atlanta, twenty minutes from the busiest airport in America. We hope to raise up men for pastoral/ godcenteredlife.org eldership ministry, young adults for service in the church, global workers for cross-cultural fields, parents who fill

19

New Titles AT THE BOOKSTALL Jesus and the Very Big Surprise

by Randall Goodgame and Catalina Echeverri A True Story about Jesus, His Return, and How to Be Ready

The Big Wide Welcome

God Cares for Me

by Scott James Helping Children Trust God When They’re Sick

Placed for a Purpose

by Chris McKinney A Simple and Sustainable Vision for Loving Your Next-Door Neighbors

by Trillia Newbell and Catalina Echeverri

AT THE CHURCH LIBRARY

A True Story About Jesus, Hames, and a Church That Learned to Love All Sorts of People

Do You Believe?

by Paul David Tripp 12 Historic Doctrines to Change Your Everyday Life

ChristianityTodays20BookAwards named the category of Biblical Studies to:

A Theology of Paul and His Letters: The Gift of the New Realm in Christ

by Douglas Moo | Zondervan

Untangling Emotions

They also gave the Award of Merit in the same category to:

by J Alasdair Groves and Winston T Smith

Making Sense of Life

by Michael Ots

When Words Matter Most

by Cheryl Marshall

Covenant: The Framework of God’s Grand Plan of Redemption

by Daniel I. Block | Baker Academic

Congratulations to both authors, both members of College Church. The Speaking Truth with Grace to Those Church Library is pleased to have both You Love books available for check out. Stop by and see them and other titles—now, Aging with Grace old, out of print. We have a great

by Sharon Betters and Susan Hunt collection of books for all ages.

Flourishing in an Anti-Aging Culture

20

COL L EGE CHURCH S T A F F

The Living Word: Alive in Us

Connections asked our pastors, directors and pastoral residents to share their favorite parts of the Bible, or a part that is particularly speaking to them--to encourage us to read new and different parts of the Bible. Here’s what some of them had to say.

A few years back I memorized Romans 8 and I’m currently reviewing and reflecting upon it. That, plus Ephesians 1:12:10, are probably my favorite Bible passages to remind me of all I have in Christ.

—Cheryce Berg, director of children’s ministries

In general, systematically reading through the Bible each year feeds my soul. As for a particular book that has been impacting me lately, I’d say the psalms. They help give me words for prayers, and they encourage my soul, especially in times of trouble. Recently Psalm 103 has been highly impactful. It reminds me of God’s character, his forgiveness, his compassion and his power. It also reminds me that life is short, and that my life is in his hands.

—Eric Channing, pastor of congregational care & family ministries John Piper opened a sermon titled, f My Words Abide in You’ by quoting from seven different sections of the Bible.

I’ve been meditating on those passages, and it’s been wonderful (Psalm 1, Psalm 16, Psalm 103, Romans 5:1-8, Romans 8; Matthew 6:25-34, 1 Corinthians 13)

I recently read Genesis (again), but this time, Joseph’s story stood out to me. I usually read that story as bad things happened to Joseph that were out of his control, but each time God miraculously elevated him and the —Michael Walker, pastoral resident things around him. While thats true, this time saw OursmallgroupisstudyingthepsalmswithDougODonnells (and read between the lines) that Joseph’s commitment, Psalms: A 12-Week Study. ve never approached the psalms work ethic and faithfulness to God were used by God as a whole book of the Bible before. It’s refreshing to see the to elevate the situation around him. And Joseph was connections between various psalms. And to think of psalms elevated in the process. That faithfulness is evidenced by as the hymnbook of Jesus is eye-opening and inspiring when Joseph’s statement to Potiphar’s wife, “How then can I do looking at the gospels. this great wickedness and sin against God?” I see it when Wil Triggs, director of communications Joseph credits God for palace sta and Pharaohs dream interpretations rather than himself. Finally, when he tells I can’t imagine that very many people haven’t read this or his brothers, “Do not be angry or distressed with yourselves heard it preached, but my favorite (surprise, surprise), is because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to the parable of the talents in Matthew 2 5 : 1 4 - 3 0 . Why: its a preserve life.” very vivid reminder that God: There’s no mention of Joseph whining or complaining or · Is in charge of everything as the master; we are stewards being angry with God at his circumstance. Joseph didn’t or managers. just sit in a corner defeated. He rose to each occasion · One day he will call us into account and judge us for how with integrity, and God used him where he was. I take that we have handled HIS wealth that he has allowed us to not only as a personal challenge but also as a lesson to manage (Rom 3:19-20). pass on to my adult children who are just beginning their · Expects us to work hard to manage the possessions he careers and influence in their part of this world. has given us.

Tim Hollinger, director of technology · Wants us to honor him by holding possessions and wealth with an open hand, being ready and willing to Romans 8. I have lived in this chapter for the past six give generously to advance his kingdom years as I’ve been writing my dissertation on adoption in Romans. Recently, I have been struck afresh at the wonder of being an “heir of God”—that the God of the universe is my Father, and that everything belonging to him is mine in Christ as his son. Amazing!

· Certainly desires us to enjoy the fruits of our hard work but not hoard our wealth, but instead use it to honor him

—Josh Maurer, pastor of discipleship

—Nancy Singer, director of administration and finance

· Expects us to be a cheerful giver, giving sacrificially, consistently, eagerly and joyfully

21

M I L E S T O N ES BIRTHS

DEATHS

Andreas Rainer was born to Chris and Gisela Gottlieb on February 23. He joins siblings Renate, Johannes and Luise.

Pray for Dick Duncan and family as they grieve the loss of Dick’s wife, Sheryl, who passed away on February 18.

A service for Sheryl will be held on Friday, March 4, at 10 a.m. in the Commons.

Sawyer Andrew Krumsieg was born to Ben and Trisha Krumsieg on February 15. Sawyer’s maternal grandparents are Pat and Lin Fallon.

Congratulations to Nate and Kate Roe who officially adopted Isaiah and Aiden Roe on February 4. They join their siblings Anna, Caleb, Leah, Laura and Rebecca, as well as extended family at College Church.

Henry Joseph Ramsey Gieser was born to Steve and Tiffany Gieser on April 6, 2021. He joins his big sisters Avery and Bella, both age 12. His paternal grandparents are David and Mary Gieser.

Pray for the family of Dick Muzzy, brother to Sue Teiwes, Ken Muzzy and Ann Kelley, who died suddenly on February 3 , in Jackson, WY. Pray for College Church missionary Tammy (Mihai) Lundell and family as the grieve the loss of Tammy’s father, Robert Ray West, who passed away on January 21, in Tarpon Springs, FL

Ethan Cepuran, Gabriel Girard (coach), Emery Lehman, Casey Dawson

An Olympiad in Our Midst Congratulations to Olympiad Ethan Cepuran and his teammates for the bronze medal in the Mens Pursuit at the Winter Olympics in Beijing last month. Ethan is the youngest son of Marilyn and Carl Cepuran.

Casey Dawson is leading, Emery Lehman is in the middle and Ethan is third.

22

LOOKING AHEAD COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS 2022

EASTER WEEK

5 p.m. in the Sanctuary with community time in Commons Hall to follow.

BEHOLD: The Story of God’s Triumph Over Death For Life

APRIL 3: How can we do evangelism today?

PALM SUNDAY: “Triumph!” Mark 11:1-10 at 8, 9:30 and 11 a.m. No evening service.

MAY 8: How can we maximize our service for the lord?

THURSDAY: Communion Service at 7 p.m.

MEN’S GATHERING SATURDAY, APRIL 9 in the Commons at 7:30 a.m.

• Breakfast • Worship • Testimonials • Devotional

GOOD FRIDAY: Death( Mark 15:3 - 9 at 6 and 8 p.m.

EASTER SUNDAY: “Life” Mark 16:1-8 at 8, 9:30 and 11 a.m.

No evening service.

CHORAL REFLECTIONS THIS EASTER SEASON Erik Dewar, pastor of worship and music As we behold the beauty of Jesus together in the worship services leading up to Easter, the choir is excited to share with you a large work by Dan Forrest entitled Words from Paradise. Each of the pieces 4ve movements explores a single word of worship found in Scripture:

RUN FOR THE STARS JUNE 11, 2022 Registration now open: runforthestars.org

COINS FOR CARING NETWORK MID-APRIL TO MOTHER’S DAY Caring Network is a College Church ministry partner which o ers Christcentered counsel and resources to women who are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and may consider abortion. College Church is distributing baby bottles for you to take home with you, 4ll with coins, cash, and checks. Your donations help this ministry assist women and rescue babies.

Holy will be the 4rst of these one-word songs, depicting our awe-inspiring Judge who dwells in unapproachable light.

Selah will be a pause—a rest from whatever else is happening, to contemplate the Truth of the God of Heaven.

Hosanna will be the joyful shout of Palm Sunday as we reRect on Jesus entering Jerusalem.

Amen will be a Good Friday remembrance of Christ’s death t is 4nished.( Hallelujah will be the celebration of Easter morning, depicting the women at the empty tomb whispering with excitement and overRowing with joy as they spread the word that Jesus is risen!

The choir enjoyed a private workshop with the composer, Dan Forrest, back in November to hear about his creative process for these beautiful choral reRections. What an inspiration! May these upcoming musical moments help us all remember and celebrate Christ more richly this Easter Season.

23

FINDING YOUR WAY SANCTUARY BUILDING

TO COMMONS

24

THE COMMONS BUILDING

TO SANCTUARY

Commons LL2

CROSSINGS BUILDING Wesley Street

Clapham School

STARS Resale Shop

Toms Price

Front Street

25