January 2011

BETWEEN THE lINES | IN Full BlooM | GoD MoMENT | “I pRoMISE”

Page 44

Free Vol. 18

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

editor’s note

Dear ‘Ohana: As we kick off 2011, we decided the theme for this issue of Life at its Best magazine is “preparing for fruitfulness.” I thought it would be a nice spin on the new year, as we move through winter and look toward spring. Although we live in Hawaii and do not experience a major climate change, I still consider January and February to be our winter months. The days are shorter and it rains more often during this time of the year.

Some of our featured articles in this issue include a behind-the-scenes look at the Frontlines Ministry, catching up with Tiffany Thurston and various stories that touch on different aspects of “fruitfulness.” We’ll also be talking about our upcoming conference, “Simply Jesus.”

I hope you enjoy this issue!

With love,

2 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

New Hope Honolulu januaryfebruary

editorial editor-in-chief Wayne Cordeiro m anaging editor Kelli Shiroma copy editors Clairelane Yoshioka, Donna Mae Katsura and Robin Hart design | production production manager Larry Ganiron creative art director Larry Ganiron graphic designer Larry Ganiron design editor Gaston Souza photographers Larry Ganiron, Derrek Miyahara, Laura Aguon, T.Y., Chad Brownstein, Justin Smith and Levi McCallum writers Wayne Cordeiro, Elwin Ahu, Kelli Shiroma, Tim Savage, Luke Savage, Jenna Leigh Saito, Susie Lam, Pat Takenishi, Wayne Hudson, Lisa Renas, Raeceen Woolford, Andy Pike and Norma Reynolds marketing Kelli Shiroma

kellishiroma@eNewhope.org 808.842.4242 ext. 210

speaking schedule

j 1 & 2 Elwin Ahu 8 & 9 Elwin Ahu 15 & 16 Elwin Ahu 22 & 23 Elwin Ahu 29 & 30 Elwin Ahu

f 5 & 6 Wayne Cordeiro

With guest Francis Chan 12 & 13 Bernie Ferderman 19 & 20 Elwin Ahu 26 & 27 Elwin Ahu

N e w H o p e O `a h u 290 Sand Island Access Road Honolulu, HI 96819 808.842.4242 | eNewhope.org

Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

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The LifeChange workbook is designed to take a spiritual inventory of our relationship with Christ and to ask God for His supernatural touch as we make changes that will bring freedom and wholeness to our lives. In addition to the workbook, participants will be reading Healing is a Choice.

This book will help us to understand our authority in Christ and how to remain victorious in Him. The retreat weekend is a glorious time of seeing God pour out His supernatural healing in our lives as we seek Him in prayer. It is designed to bring healing and deliverance from specific issues such as fear, anger, bitterness, rejection and many other issues with which we commonly struggle.

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CONTENTS

JANUARY | FEBRUARY2011 | VOL.18

FEATuRE ARTIClE MINISTRY ARTIClE GoD MoMENT EVENT RECAp pHoTo SToRY FEATuRE ARTIClE FINANCES FEATuRE FEATuRE ARTIClE FITNESS FEATuRE FEATuRE ARTIClE EVENT pREVIEW CoMMuNITY CoNNECTIoN FEATuRE ARTIClE

08 10 14 20 22 28 31 32 38 40 44 48 49

A Season of Preparation Children’s Ark: Building Relationships Walking by Faith Prison Ministry: Mission Trip to Saguaro Prison A Time to Prepare “I Promise”: Preparing for a Future Together Preparing for Financial Fruitfulness Between the Lines A Launch for Christ In Full Bloom

31

“Simply Jesus” Conference Marketplace Leadership Workshop Perseverance through Pain

38 6 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

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HoNolulu

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TElEVISIoN Friday 10:30 p.m. KIKU-9

Sunday KSSK, 590 AM & 92.3 FM 6 a.m.

Sunday 8 a.m. KIKU-9 1 p.m. OLELO-52 6:30 p.m. KHON-2

lIHuE, KAuAI

Monday-Friday HKJC, 88.9 FM 6:30 a.m., 5:30 p.m., 11:30 p.m.

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Tuesday 8 p.m. KWHE-11 Thursday 7:30 a.m. KIKU-9

32 28

40 20 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

7

A

Season of Preparation te xtWAYNE COR DE I R O

Changing Seasons

There are changes of seasons in our lives for which we need to be prepared. God is committed to the fruitfulness of our future.

There is a fruitfulness that He has planned for us in our lives. It is a life where we become what God has created us to be, to influence the people He wants to influence and not to miss by detouring from our future.

We want to make sure that we become what God wants us to be. One of the things we need to do is to prepare. If we prepare well, there will be an abundant, fruitful future for us.

In Matthew 13, Jesus speaks about several different soils; some were prepared for fruitfulness while others were not. Look at the reward of what He called “good soil” or soil that had been prepared.

“And other [seed] fell on the good soil and yielded a crop, some a hundredfold, some sixty and some thirty” (Matt. 13:8).

Conversely, when we don’t prepare—not just agricultural fields, but our hearts and lives— there can be negative consequences.

One of the things God is saying is that we need to be willing to prepare for fruitfulness.

But, if we are going to ask God to be that One who, if need be, plows the ground and works it for us, then we will need to brace ourselves for the plow.

Much preparation is needed in order to bring fruitfulness. If not, there will be a barren field or a field filled with thorns. God will not sow good seed in a field that has not been prepared because it is useless.

There are three stages of preparing for fruitfulness.

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1. Identify Thorns in Your Life “For thus says the Lord … ‘Break up your fallow ground, and do not sow among thorns’” (Jer. 4:3).

God is saying to break up the fallow ground, which means you’ve got to plow and get rid of the thorns.

God is committed to our future, but He won’t sow among thorns. Sometimes we have little things in our lives that we know are not right, but they have just become a part of our lives.

The Lord is saying to identify and remove those because He is happy to sow seed, but not until you identify the thorns.

God wants us to have a heart that’s willing to go through our own life and identify thorns. He wants us to have hearts that are pure, not hearts that are duplicitous. When we do something for so long, it’s no longer a habit; it becomes our personality. The Lord then says, “I can’t sow as much as I want to, to bring a future to your life. You have not prepared for fruitfulness. One of the things I need is for you to be honest.”

We must make a lifelong commitment to God’s ways. If He is that committed to our future, then I am going to do the best I can.

When we allow God to have His way in our lives, even to intercept us, because He is committed to our future, it will give us great confidence. I ask God for a pure heart and I move forward. There is confidence in my life because I know that if it’s not the right way, God is going to intervene and I know I’m going to end up where God wants me to end up.

3. Make Wise but Firm Decisions for Righteousness

There are some of you who may need to make a lifestyle change. There are directions that you have been moving in and you just feel a storm coming. At that point, stop going in that direction and start processing it.

The Lord then says, “Now, you understand what a pure heart is and you are starting to filter and process before you make a decision. When you finally hear Me, make some wise but firm decisions to get your life corrected.”

Make that commitment and give your life completely to His way. Say, “Lord, I invite You in. I am going to do my best in all aspects of my life, but if I ever start to go over the edge, nail me, even if You have to throw me over the side.”

The Lord says, “Good, because I will intervene in order to bring you to what I want you to be. In the end, you will turn around and say, ‘I am so thankful that the Lord is a part of my life.’”

God is saying that we’re going to need to process our lives to find the thorns. If we don’t, we will never see them, because they will all be woven into who we are. Our futures will not be where the ground is good because we’ve got thorns all over the place and He won’t sow among thorns. We need to be willing to process before we make a decision.

2. Make a Lifelong Commitment to His Ways

We don’t want to miss what God designed or created us to be. We’ve got one life on this earth and we’re not going to live it over again.

Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

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ministry article

Children's Ark:

Building Relationships te xtKE LLI S H I R OM A im a g esLAR RY GANI R ON

S

porting signature purple T-shirts and cheerful smiles, members of the Children’s Ark (New Hope O`ahu children’s ministry) joyfully welcome children of various ages into their classrooms during the LEAD Midweek and weekend services. Whether these volunteers serve once a month or every weekend, their vision is the same – to partner with parents as they raise their children up in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.

“It’s really a blessing for our volunteers to know in their hearts that they’re giving a gift back to God,” says Gale Smith, the director of Children’s Ark. Children’s Ark encompasses a variety of ages, from infants at three months to students in the fourth grade. The Ark has two primary sections – early childhood (babies thru twoyear-old toddlers) and elementary (three years old to fourth grade).

At the beginning of each service, children are checked in at their classes according to grade level. After check in, children in the elementary section, depending on the age level, are ushered to a play station or do devotions/journaling. They later attend “SuperChurch,” where they experience praise and worship and a lesson, in a large group setting. When “SuperChurch” finishes, they return to their classes for a Sunday School lesson and snacks in a small group.

When new volunteers enter Children’s Ark, they start off as teacher’s assistants, whether or not they have prior experience in teaching. Mini-training sessions help these new volunteers to get acclimated to classroom settings as they partner with ministry veterans.

Eventually, the new volunteers are trained to be classroom teachers if the need or desire arises.

While Children’s Ark was one of the first

10 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

New Hope ministries, it has changed over the years. About five years ago, “Pier 45”— a family service—was added under the Children’s Ark ministry. Currently, Children’s Ark is working toward a computer kiosk system to be used for checking in the children.

“We’re testing the system right now to ensure ‘safety first’ and to make signing the kids in and out more convenient for our families,” Smith says.

Smaller classroom settings are another change, as classroom numbers are limited to facilitate deeper relationships between the children.

The idea of building relationships has always been essential to Smith, who instills this concept within Children’s Ark. Volunteers meet quarterly in small, fractal groups, whose purpose is two-fold – members discuss ministry concerns or new ideas in meetings, but also take the time to pray and get to know one another.

“I remember Pastor Wayne would say, ‘Whatever you do, build relationships first,’” Smith reflects. “‘Programs and tasks will come, but build relationships first.’ I believe once the volunteers get to know each other better, there’s more grace for one another. There’s something very special about the heart of a volunteer. I’m grateful for our teams and for the opportunity to serve alongside them.”

for devotions, connect regularly with other Christians, keep balance in their schedules and get their physical rest.

Although Children’s Ark volunteers face challenges like burnout, the ministry includes numerous blessings, according to Smith.

“I think one of the blessings that helps to encourage the volunteers is seeing the kids grow up and knowing the Lord,” Smith shares.

“We see them in church and they’re serving in the Ark or in other ministries. When we reach them at a young age to serve, it becomes a lifestyle.”

Hugs and words of gratitude from children also demonstrate the impact of Children’s Ark volunteers. The blessing, however, is mutual, according to Smith.

“When people serve, it’s really a lifechanging time for them,” Smith says, smiling.

“When the volunteers come on board the Ark, God is really working and developing them as well. As they are serving the kids, they realize they’ve learned a lot, too. In one way or another, our volunteers leave being changed.”

Interested in serving in Children’s Ark? Contact Gale Smith at childrensark@hawaii.rr.com.

“You need to look at the hearts of those who serve, and you’ll see a powerful ministry that is reaching out to the next generation.”

– GALE S. SMITH Another important concept for Smith is keeping the ministry “simple, yet effective.”

Even as the Children’s Ark ministry expanded to different sites, this underlying principle remained the same.

“From Waianae to Hawaii Kai, these sites are designed to reach out to the communities,” Smith says. “They duplicate what we do here at New Hope Honolulu, but on a smaller scale. Even as we expand, we’re pretty simple, but we see the fruit of it.”

For Children’s Ark volunteers who serve often, avoiding burnout can be a challenge.

To prevent burnout, all Children’s Ark volunteers are required to attend New Hope O`ahu services. They are also encouraged to make intentional quiet time with the Lord

Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

11

daily devos

S

O

title

EXCUSES, EXCUSES

title

THE REASON

date

January 14th Devotion

date

February 21st Devotion

“When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, ‘Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.’ Jesus replied: ‘A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, “Come, for everything is now ready.” But they all alike began to make excuses’” (Luke 14:15-18).

S

“Whether the cloud stayed over the tabernacle for two days or a month or a year, the Israelites would remain in camp and not set out; but when it lifted, they would set out. At the Lord’s command they encamped, and at the Lord’s command they set out. They obeyed the Lord’s order ...” (Num. 9:22).

O

It wasn’t the weather. It wasn’t the money. It wasn’t the terrain nor was it the deadlines that dictated their schedule and movement. It was the presence of the Lord.

Excuses, excuses ... we seem to be really good at making them, aren’t we?

How easy it is to shout our declarations of joy in the presence of the Lord, and in the same breath, make excuses when it comes to committing ourselves to follow His commands and His call, or in responding to the Lord’s invitation to follow Him.

I have been a student of the hand of God for many years, watching His hand set down on some and taken up from others. I have seen His blessings and favor on a ministry for many years and on some for just a season.

A

We all have that same tendency whenever we’re confronted with responsibilities that call us out of our comfort zones, or whenever we’re faced with change or a challenge, or when the road ahead isn’t a paved highway.

In these moments, excuses seem to flow freely. But, what we fail to realize are the consequences that will follow every excuse given.

A

P

We can have great technology, great innovation, super ideas and wonderfully talented people, but it will be the presence of God that will make all the difference in the world.

So what is the presence of God? What do we mean by “The Hand of God?” How is it recognized?

Each morning, the Lord has called me to respond to my responsibilities as a husband, as a father and as a minister for Him in everything that I do. He invites me to join in His daily “banquet,” for indeed every day is a grand buffet of events, of experiences to see Him at work, to witness His hand and the glory that is to come in the lives of those He allows me to meet. The question is, am I willing to respond, even if it involves some risk, some sense of discomfort and element of change? Or will I make just another excuse as to why I can’t be involved? Whenever He invites me to participate with Him in His work, it should be an honor and a privilege that I should willingly respond: “Here I am, Lord; send me.”

Father, I stand ready today to do Your will. Wherever You have called me, I will go; wherever You have a need, I will serve. I’ve made too many excuses in the past; I commit myself to You for my future. Here I am, Lord; send me.

byELW IN AHU

I am still learning all of the ramifications of this, but one thing I do know ... if the hand of God is not there, and if His presence is not seen, everything gets harder. We begin to develop man-made ministries.

It is not always some empirical, scientifically provable fact.

It can be more intuitive. You notice it by the marks of His presence ... a sense of unity, a joy, a desire to see God move, freshness in worship and receptivity in hearts. It is seen in the unity between co-laborers in the Gospel, a willing heartedness, and the fruit of salvations and lives being changed.

His absence will deliver the opposite of these: cynicism, doubt, “what’s in it for me” and an unwillingness to change.

It is my desire to welcome the presence of God. I can have the funds, the personnel and the energy ... but until He gives His blessing and hand, we will be running uphill and against the wind.

P

Dear Father, I continue to pray for your presence to be on the ministry and my life. I know that without you, I can do nothing. I will fry my engines and be gone. Teach me to know how to posture myself and my heart so that You are pleased to dwell in my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

byWAYNE CORDEIRO

12 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

movie review

te xtT I M AND LUKE S AVAGE Tim Savage is New Hope O`ahu’s director of multimedia.

STARRING BEN BARNES, SKANDAR KEYNES AND GEORGIE HENLEY DIRECTED BY MICHAEL APTED PG, 115 MINUTES RELEASED DEC. 10, 2010

“The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader” is the third of seven in the classic series of books written by C.S. Lewis. My 11-year-old son, Luke, and I went to see the new film two days after it opened. I originally read the series in my late teens and this was one of the books that I remembered most vividly. One of the reasons this movie series is so successful is because there are multiple audiences – parents and grandparents who have read the books since their release in the 1950s (more than 100 million volumes sold in 47 languages), plus the new generation of kids who now enjoy fantasy-adventure stories.

run through the series, but he has liked other movie series like “The Lord of the Rings” and “Harry Potter” a little more.

I think “Narnia” is definitely better for children than “Harry Potter,” but there is something intangible missing from the film that keeps it off of our “Best of …” list. As a parent, I loved seeing the Christian metaphors weaved into the story in such creative and evocative ways. As we drove home from the theater, Luke and I had a spirited discussion in which he had a neat “light-bulb moment” when he realized what Aslan’s home country represented ... that alone was worth more than the price of admission!

Most importantly to me, this film is one to recommend to your family, neighbors and friends because it doesn’t hit them over the head with a Christian message; instead, the

message is sprinkled throughout the story in interesting and entertaining ways. I’m not a fan of movies “by Christians for Christians;” they actually really frustrate me. Films like the “Narnia” series, “The Blind Side” and “Bruce Almighty,” to name a few, are great for Christians and non-Christians alike.

Great special effects, a great story, solid and likeable lead actors and exciting adventure scenes in “The Voyage of the Dawn Treader” all make for a great family-friendly movie night out. I don’t recommend this for kids under eight years because of a couple of scary battle scenes. Luke would recommend it to his friends, but not nearly as enthusiastically as his dad.

In each of the Chronicles, children from the real world are magically transported to a land called Narnia where animals talk, dragons breathe fire and good battles evil. The children are summoned to Narnia by Aslan, the all-powerful, yet kind and gracious lion, who rules all things good. In Narnia, the children are called upon to act with courage and faith and to overcome their own weaknesses and insecurities in order to help Aslan restore good to the land.

Luke was generally entertained and engaged throughout the movie. He gave it 3.5 stars out of five. Honestly, I was hoping that he would like it more because of the Christian themes that

Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

13

god moment

WalKing by Faith te xtKE LLI S H I R OM A ima ge sT. Y.

eventeen-year-old Isaac Rabanal seems like a typical high schooler who loves to play music and hang out at the beach. Looking at Rabanal, one would never guess that, just a few months ago, he was doing rehab at Shriners Hospital for Children in Sacramento, Calif. with the prognosis of being quadriplegic.

“It’s just amazing to see him sitting here,” says Lisa Seim, Rabanal’s mother. “You can’t tell that he’s been paralyzed for the past three months, that up until today [Nov. 17, 2010], he’s been in a wheelchair. Today is the first day he was able to not be pushed around in the wheelchair at school.”

On Aug. 20, 2010, Rabanal shattered his C5 neck bone—located at the front of the neck—by diving headfirst by the shore break at White Plains Beach in Kapolei. He was rushed to the Queen’s Medical Center and immediately went into surgery. Seim remembers what the doctors told her and Rabanal’s father right before the surgery.

“Most people who have that bone—the C5—shattered are quadriplegic the rest of their lives; they ’re paralyzed,” she says. “It was really horrible at first; his dad and I were just crying and praying.”

Rabanal’s faith, despite the bleak circumstance, amazed his mother.

“He told me before he went into surgery, ‘Don’t worry, Mom; I’m going to walk again,’” Seim recalls. “‘God’s using this for me to go out and bring people back to Jesus.’”

Rabanal recovered in Queen’s hospital for the next month then started rehab at Shriners Hospital for Children in California. Shriners Hospital in Sacramento had a fully

accredited school in the hospital, and they helped Rabanal coordinate his credits earned with Kapolei High School so he would not fall behind in his courses.

“At Queen’s, they felt Shriners [on the mainland] would be the best place for him because they don’t have facilities here for kids to do rehab and also go to school at the same time,” Seim explains. “He did a lot of physical therapy and occupational therapy at Shriners.”

The road to recovery was a tough one for Rabanal. Right after the surgery, Rabanal’s lungs collapsed, which prevented him from talking for a month until he got to Shriners Hospital because he was on a breathing machine. Because Rabanal’s neck surgery also affected his swallowing, he had a feeding tube that went directly to his stomach for one-and-a-half months.

“I think the worst part was that they gave me this medicine that I was allergic to, and I started having a seizure,” Rabanal remembers. “It was for stomach acid because I couldn’t eat anything from my mouth … it was the first time I actually had serious fear.”

Although he returned from Shriners Hospital in midOctober, Rabanal is not finished with the recovery process.

He works out on an exercise bike and does various other exercises to strengthen his muscles.

“It’s hard, it’s always going to be hard,” Rabanal says, of the recovery. “They [the doctors] said it’ll take about a year before I fully recover, so I still have muscle spasms and a lot of pain because the muscles are coming back.”

Despite the challenges he continues to face, Rabanal knows he learned a lot through the painful experience.

P H OT OS COURT E SY OF L ISA SEIM

“I realize now how much faith is a big factor in life. If you don’t have faith, you’re pretty much lost; nothing’s going to happen if you don’t have faith.” – ISAAC RAbANAL

Having patience, being grateful and listening to his parents were several of the greatest lessons Rabanal learned while he was in the hospital.

“I grew up a lot, probably a lot more than most kids do,” Rabanal reflects.

“I just realized that life’s too short to complain about everything.”

Rabanal’s mobility is truly a testament of the miracle God did in his life. He remembers how God had prepared him for the circumstance during the “Relentless” Conference in mid-August, put on by New Hope’s Youth Ministry.

“That’s when God told me, ‘You’re going to go through something that will change your life forever,’” Rabanal recalls. “‘I’m not going to tell you what it is, but something’s going to happen to you and it’s going to be for Me. You’re going to make it through because I’m with you.’”

The accident occurred when things finally seemed to be “on track” in Rabanal’s life, according to his mother.

Prior to “Relentless,” Rabanal was going through a season where he was experimenting with drugs at school

16 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

and was reluctant to attend church, despite attending New Hope for the past seven years and being involved with the youth ministry. However, after realigning his heart with God’s will during “Relentless,” Rabanal seemed to turn his life around.

A senior this year at Kapolei High School, Rabanal looks forward to graduating in May, attending Pacific Rim Christian College next fall and participating in the New Hope Youth Ministry ’s “One Generation (OG)” internship with other youth leaders. As far as long-term goals are concerned, Rabanal plans to major in worship and the arts and possibly serve on a praise and worship team in the future.

Regardless of his own aspirations, though, he’s content just to see where God leads him.

“I think my goal is just to do what God tells me to do,” Rabanal says. “I don’t know what I’m going to do with this life … I’m just following Him.”

announcements IMPACT MENʼS MINISTRY

January 8, 8:30-11 a.m.

LEAD Center Contact Sean Nakamoto, 351-6645 Attend our kick-off rally for all men of New Hope … join us for food, fellowship and fun.

“oG NIGHT” (“oNE GENERATIoN” YouTH MINISTRIES)

January 15, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

LEAD Center Contact Melody Badayos, 842-4242 ext. 321 The Youth Ministry “OG Night” will feature a night of worship, a message from a guest speaker and great fellowship. This event is for all junior high and high school students (5th thru 12th grade).

JoIN A YouTH MINISTRY

Amplify Cadres – Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Jan. 10–May 23 Thrive Cadres – Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m., Jan. 10–May 23 Moanalua Shopping Center Starbucks Contact Melody Badayos, 842-4242 ext. 321 Join our spring season of Amplify or Thrive Cadres. For more information about Cadres, visit www.enewhope.org/OG.

“WoMEN IN THE WoRD”

Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

LEAD Center Contact Susie Lam, newhopewomen@hawaii.rr.com “Women in the Word” will be doing a study titled “Life Lessons from David” this spring. All women are welcome and childcare is available for children ages two and above.

SuRF MINISTRY

January 16, February 19, 8 a.m.

Kalaeloa Beach Park – Campground area Contact Kirk Miyashiro, 396-3380 The Surf Ministry is geared to deliver the Gospel to all who will join us at the beach.

Free surf lessons followed by a message and worship. A 40-ft. swim test is required for those who want lessons. It’s okay to bring your surfboard, but one is not required; we have boards on hand for beginners. The New Hope O`ahu Surf Ministry meets on the third Saturday of every month.

FuSE YouNG ADulTS

FUSE East – Fridays, 7 p.m., LEAD Center FUSE West – Wednesdays, 7 p.m., New Hope Leeward Ministry Center Contact Pastor Alex Michel, alexm@fusehawaii.com FUSE East is moving to a new day and location in January! FUSE is a Spirit-driven community of New Hope young adults that exists to reach, raise and release this generation to bring Christ and His Kingdom to our islands and the world. All young adults ages 18-35 are welcome. For more details, visit fusehawaii.com.

BABY DEDICATIoN

February 19-20 Farrington High School Auditorium Contact Arlene Iwano, 842-4242 ext. 420 Have your baby dedicated to the Lord at our weekend services.

DANIEl FAST

January 5 – Ministry Center January 9 – Farrington High School Contact Gaye Drummond, gayedrummond@yahoo.com Want to consecrate 2011 with 21 days of prayer and fasting or interested in learning about the history and relevance of fasting?

Come and be part of the Daniel Fast. We will continue to meet each week on Wednesdays and/or Sundays to encourage each other, pray and learn about fasting.

pACIFIC RIM JANuARY TERM AND SpRING SEMESTER

January Term – January 10-21 Spring Semester – Starts January 31 Pacific Rim Christian College, 290 Sand Island Access Road Contact Cammie Arakaki, 842-4242 ext. 750 Check out our dynamic one-week intensives in January or sign up for the spring semester.

Course list and more information available at our table outside during weekend services.

MoVIE NIGHT

January 21, 6:30 p.m.

Ministry Center Contact Arlene Iwano, 842-4242 ext. 420 Join your New Hope ‘ohana for another great movie night. Thank you to New Hoper Tim Chey, writer/director, for allowing us to show

“Suing the Devil” before its scheduled release in 2011. Bring your bentos and beach chairs for a great family night.

GREAT AloHA RuN WITH NEW HopE

Deadline for mail-ins – January 21 Contact Milton Oka, 373-0245 New Hope is now a Great Aloha Run Presidents’ 100 Club participant. Get in on a special goodie bag when you pick up your packet at the Expo, a free Papa John’s PostRace Pizza Party at Aloha Stadium on race day and free massages by signing up under New Hope. Just write 175 for the 100 Club code on your entry form. Pick up an application packet after service or go online at www.greataloharun.com.

lEARN@NEWHopE ClASSES

Contact Paul and Donna Nakamura, learn@eNewHope.org Enroll now for our spring classes.

Truth Project – Starts January 6 New Believer Basics – January 8 or 9 Managing Finances God’s Way – Starts January 12 Spiritual Growth Essentials – January 15 or 16 Stewardship – January 22 or 23 Developing Your Spiritual Gifts – January 29 or 30 John Maxwell Leadership Workshop – Starts February 9 Life Change – Starts February 21

“CRAZY loVE” ClASS WITH FRANCIS CHAN

February 6–March 27, 9-10:30 a.m.

Farrington High School Auditorium Contact Don Aguilar, donaldaguilar@eNewHope.org Sign up for this special class, featuring one of our “Simply Jesus” Conference speakers, Pastor Francis Chan!

“FooTSTEpS oF pAul”

October 19-22, 2012 Contact Arlene Iwano, 842-4242 ext. 420 Join Pastor Wayne Cordeiro for “Footsteps of Paul,” a 14-day tour to Greece, Turkey and Italy.

Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

17

First Aide

te xtKE LLI S H I R OM A im a g esL ARRY GAN IRON

She might be the assistant to a popular and busy pastor, but Mary Waialeale keeps a relatively low profile. Waialeale often operates behind the scenes, whether this includes booking Pastor Wayne Cordeiro’s travel arrangements or scheduling his conferences.

In this issue, Life at its Best magazine talks to Waialeale, as she dishes on her favorite pastimes, what it’s like to be Pastor Wayne’s assistant and embracing her time at New Hope Christian College in Oregon. arm, spunky and energetic, Mary Waialeale remembers when she first got involved at New Hope O`ahu.

She and her husband, Pastor Richard, started serving with the Levites in 1997, after becoming Christians at New Hope. She remembers cleaning toilets with the Levites and setting up for Children’s Ark on Saturday nights, then returning for worship service on Sunday mornings at Farrington High School.

“That’s how we bumped into Elwin Ahu and Joy, and they were cleaning toilets, too,” Waiaelale recalls. “Elwin invited Richard to a men’s Bible study and shortly after that, we formed a small group together.”

Waialeale joined the New Hope O`ahu staff in 1999 as the assistant to Pastor Wayne Cordeiro’s secretary, Carol Ann Shima. When Shima retired in 2004, Waialeale assumed her position.

While being the assistant to an increasingly busy pastor might seem intimidating to many, Waialeale’s past experiences prepared her for the position.

18 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

Before serving on staff at New Hope, Waialeale worked at Meadow Gold Dairies as the executive assistant to the general manager.

“The general manager at Meadow Gold was very similar to Pastor Wayne,” Waialeale

Club lounge floors. She later became the night assistant housekeeper of the Hyatt.

Looking back on her years in the hotel industry, Waialeale knows God used all her experiences there to prepare her for her current position.

“When I see the fruit starting to emerge from the Bible college, it makes me want to prepare myself more. To be able to bear more fruit, wherever I am, I know I have to be ready.” – MARY WAIALEALE reflects. “I had worked with him for several years, so when I came to New Hope, that mindset of knowing how a visionary thinks really helped me.”

Not only did Waialeale’s experience as the executive assistant at Meadow Gold Dairies come in handy, but her time working in the hotel industry did as well. Prior to working at Meadow Gold, Waialeale was the guest service manager at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki, in charge of the information desk and the Regency

“The Hyatt had a really good training program on hospitality,” she says. “In ministry, you’re working with people from all different walks of life, so the Hyatt’s training taught me a lot.”

Many people often ask Waialeale what it’s like to be the assistant to a popular pastor who has many responsibilities.

“There’s never a dull moment,” she says.

“It keeps you on your toes. Every day is a different day; there’s not a set schedule or routine to the busyness of the ministry.”

staff profile

Part of Waialeale’s responsibilities includes scheduling Pastor Wayne’s calendar, following up on assignments he gives his directional team and tracking the various tasks he delegates. When ministry gets challenging, Waialeale remembers her favorite Bible verse, Nehemiah 8:10. The joy in serving God far outweighs any challenge in ministry, she says.

“The joy of the Lord is my strength,” Waialeale affirms. “A lot of times, our strength does fade, and when I recall that scripture, it puts my focus back on the joy of serving Jesus.”

In the past year, Waialeale’s duties as Pastor Wayne’s assistant have altered slightly. Currently, she divides her time between Hawaii and Oregon, helping Pastor Wayne at New Hope Christian College (NHCC). Those who find themselves in Waialeale’s position might complain about the jet-setter lifestyle. Waialeale, however, views this opportunity to be part of NHCC in Oregon and the mother church in Honolulu as “the best of both worlds.”

“I really believe that, until God closes

the door, this is really what He’s calling me to do this season,” Waialeale states emphatically. “I’ve been traveling back and forth while we blend the two cultures together.”

Waialeale knows that assisting Pastor Wayne at NHCC is part of her calling because God has allowed the transition to go very smoothly. Things are going well on the home front, according to Waialeale, whose husband leads New Hope South Shore. With Skype, she enjoys constant communication with her husband. Pastor Richard also goes on short trips to Oregon to visit her.

“I think of it like deployment,” Waialeale shares. “In my mind, it’s short-term deployment. I think it’s all in the mind or attitude with which you take assignments from the Lord.”

When she is not busy assisting Pastor Wayne, Waialeale derives pleasure from the simple joys of life. She loves visiting the community garden close to her home on O`ahu and raising caterpillars into butterflies. Waialeale also enjoys Friday

“date nights” with her husband, browsing in antique shops and spending time with their four-year-old granddaughter, Maya.

“Preparing for fruitfulness” describes the season in which Waialeale currently finds herself. She knows that being able to assist Pastor Wayne at NHCC is the result of having already “planted seeds” at New Hope O`ahu.

“All of us on staff here [at New Hope O`ahu] have the same vision, so as a team, we know what we need to do in order to prepare fruit for the next season,” she says.

“But in order to prepare fruit, we always need to be planting seeds. That’s what I feel I’m doing this season: I’m planting seeds in Oregon, and the seeds that I’ve planted here [at New Hope O`ahu] with our staff has allowed me to go there and come back.”

Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

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20 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

“The highlight for me was to see how other pastors and leaders— who are able to influence thousands of volunteers—take ministry to those who are in need.” – PASTOR ELWIN AHU

D

uring the first week of November last year, the New Hope O`ahu Prison Ministry, partnering with several other churches from Hawaii, traveled to the Saguaro Prison in Arizona to reach the inmates for Christ. This outreach included 42 volunteers, including Pastor Joe Onosai from Word of Life, Pastor Scott Sonoda from First Assembly of God and Pastor David Katina from Great Life 808. Local comedian Tony Silva from Da Bruddahs joined the Hawaii team, as did the Katinas and Tiffany Thurston.

The Saguaro Prison, located in the middle of the Arizona desert, is home to more than 1,900 inmates from Hawaii.

Although New Hope O`ahu did its first outreach to Saguaro Prison in June 2008, this second mission trip was different because it included other churches from the Hawaiian Islands. For Pastor Elwin Ahu, seeing churches partner together with the same vision was one of the joys of the trip.

“The highlight was to see how other pastors got inspired and caught the vision of what New Hope has been doing for many years,” he says. “Now, the Gospel is being

This response was one of several miracles that occurred during the outreach, according to Yamamoto. Initially, only 600 inmates signed up to attend the outreach, but the Lord provided a way for the Hawaii team to reach the entire prison.

“Our heart was to reach the whole prison,” Yamamoto explains. “We asked God to do a miracle and open the doors so we could have more men come. They opened a second yard as overflow for the guys, so we were actually able to reach the

“They [the inmates] came into the outreach really hard; you could see so much pride in them,” Yamamoto says. “Each part [of the program] was so needed to bring down the walls of the guys.”

When worship concluded, the inmates saw a video of the Angel Tree outreach that ministered to their children. The Katinas led two special songs following the video presentation, accompanied by women from the New Hope O`ahu halau. Inmates heard messages from both Yamamoto and Ahu, and more than 750 men accepted the Lord into their lives.

whole prison.”

The following day, the outreach continued as the Hawaii team was allowed to enter a facility with maximum security to minister to the inmates there. Being able to enter every part of this facility was only possible through God, according to Yamamoto.

“It was a miracle because they’ll never let people go into maximum security, but we were allowed to go in and minister to all the guys,” Yamamoto says.

Over the next few days, the Hawaii team taught journaling classes to the entire prison.

Administrators at the prison not only saw a change in the inmates, but a difference in the attitude among the prison’s staff members as well. Saguaro Prison Warden Todd Thomas was especially grateful for the Hawaii team’s efforts to minister to the inmates.

“I have seen a noticeable difference in

Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

21

Interested in supporting the New Hope Prison Ministry? Call 842-4242 ext. 405 to see how you can get involved.

the overall attitudes of the population and staff,” Thomas says, via e-mail. “You leave everything in better condition than you found it. You truly care about people; you are committed to making their lives better.”

In addition to the inmates’ decisions to surrender their lives to Christ, another highlight of the outreach was the “one heart” spirit that bonded members from the Hawaii team, according to Yamamoto.

“For God to bring a team of 42 people from different churches and for them to work in one heart and spirit was a miracle,” he says. “For every person that came on the trip, it was an ‘upper-room experience’ – everyone came of one accord and served the Lord in their best way.”

The mission trip to Saguaro Prison was so successful that ideas for future outreaches are already in progress. Thomas would not only like to continue the prison’s partnership with New Hope O`ahu, but to see it expand so other organizations can join the efforts to combat the prison problem. Ahu echoes this vision, dividing the prison problem into three main segments—prevention, institutional and aftercare—with hopes of targeting each area.

“This trip ignited a fire in me to move forward with an impossible vision in the eyes of man, but not in God’s eyes … and that is to tackle the whole problem [of prison],” he says.

te xtKE LLI SH I ROMA im a g e sCH AD bROW N STE I N

“God shines through you all, and by letting that happen, you make all of us better people.” – WARDEN TODD THOMAS

taken into the prisons not just by one, but by a team of churches.”

The outreach kicked off with a comedy sketch from Da Bruddahs, followed by Tiffany Thurston singing Hawaiian songs that brought the “Aloha Spirit” to the inmates.

After this, the Katinas led the group in worship. These three performances were crucial in helping the inmates become more open to the upcoming message, according to Pastor Roy Yamamoto, chaplain of the New Hope O`ahu Prison Ministry.

event recap | PRISON MINISTRY: MISSION TRIP TO SAGUARO PRISON

im a g esLAR RY GANI R ON

Life is full of seasons. While we are prepared for some, others catch us by surprise. Yet, when we rely on God’s direction, we find He prepares us for various seasons of our lives. Meet several members of our New Hope ‘ohana, who share how they prepare for different seasons in their lives with God’s guidance.

22 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

“‘Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ’ (1 Pet. 1:13). God is revealing to me that I must set my hope solely on His grace for me through Jesus Christ’s atonement for my total depravity. I heard this as a ‘concept’ so many times, yet I am finally realizing it as the ultimate reality of my life. What better way can God prepare me for a season of fruitfulness than allow me to desire what He desires? As I surrender my own ambitions to Him and learn to rather ‘seek first His Kingdom,’ God transforms passions that I had as idols into outlets for ministry. As I face ‘growing pains’ during the season of transformation, I am learning to lean on His Word.”

Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

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“‘Retirement? I’m too young! I love my job; I have more to offer!

I’m not ready,’ I remember thinking.

God’s voice, however, quietly kept nudging me – ‘Retire.’ So, remembering the many times that Pastor Wayne said loving God meant obeying His call on our lives, I stepped out in faith, fully confident that He had prepared me for the new season in my life.

Now, eight years later, I look back and understand why God led me down that path. Obedience to His call on my life led me to being a care-giving grandmother, a ministry leader and a member of a mission team. Obeying God with faith has given me many wonderful opportunities to serve ‘an audience of One.’”

24 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

“As our family looks at the new year, and the celebrations and challenges ahead, we choose to look up. Rather than focusing our eyes on what’s ahead and what we have planned, we commit to locking our gaze at the One who directs our steps (Prov. 16:9).

Whatever hopes and dreams God has placed in our hearts will be established if we seek Him and His Kingdom first (Matt. 6:33).”

Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

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health tip

O

mega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids, meaning your body cannot produce them and you have to get them from your diet.

Omega-3 plays an important role in brain function, as well as in normal growth and development.

Researchers have also found that Omega-3 may help decrease the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer and arthritis.

Dietary sources of Omega-3 are found in fatty fishes such as salmon, mackerel, herring and tuna. However, if you don’t care for fish, you’ll be happy to know that nuts are a good source, too. The American Heart Association recommends that we eat these fatty fishes at least twice a week. According to the Mayo Clinic, eating high amounts of fishes such as tilapia and catfish should be avoided because they are low in Omega-3 and high in Omega-6. Omega-6 is also a fatty acid and is found in red meat and egg yolk. Eating too much Omega-6 can increase your risk of heart disease. The University of Maryland Medical Center has found that having a balance between Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids actually decreases the risk of heart disease. Some symptoms of low levels of Omega-3 include tiredness, poor memory, heart problems, depression, poor circulation and dry skin.

The best clinical evidence of the benefits of Omega-3 is found in the prevention of heart disease, but it may also prove beneficial for individuals

26 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

Omega-3 te xtPAT TAKENISHI, Rph

with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, skin conditions and depression, just to name a few. Studies show that eating two servings of fish high in Omega-3 a week can decrease the risk of a stroke by as much as 50 percent. However, keep in mind that high doses of Omega-3 can also increase the risk of a hemorrhagic stroke, or bleeding in the brain. High doses are considered to be more than three grams of Omega-3 per day, which is approximately three servings of fish per day.

You can also obtain Omega-3 through an over-the-counter (OTC) dietary supplement.

If you are planning to get an OTC supplement of Omega-3, be sure to buy a reputable brand to ensure that no mercury, pesticide residue or other contaminants are in the product. In addition, OTC products may interact with your medications or health conditions; thus, be sure to consult with your physician or pharmacist prior to taking any OTC supplement or product.

ASK PAT Have questions about prescription medications, over-the-counter products or herbal supplements? Ask pharmacist Pat Takenishi! Call 545-8925 to get your health-related questions answered today!

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Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

27

Preparing for a Future Together

te xtKE LLI S H I R OM A im a g esL ARRY GAN IRON

Engaged couple Tim Sanders and Natalie Cannon are frequent faces around New Hope Honolulu. Both are longtime New Hope attendees – Sanders since 1995; Cannon since 2000. While Cannon is involved in the dance ministry, Sanders serves on staff at New Hope O`ahu as the connections director. As they plan for their upcoming wedding, Sanders and Cannon share how God is preparing them for this new season of marriage.

I

n 2006, having a boyfriend was had one night in spring 2008. has been helpful to the couple, who are the last thing on Natalie Cannon’s “Nat and I were talking about what we learning more about each other’s modes of mind. felt God was calling each of us to do,” communication.

“At the time, I really didn’t want Sanders reflects. “As we were talking, the “They taught us to make sure we’re to be in a relationship,” she admits.

Lord spoke to me and said, ‘Why do you communicating what we’re thinking to “I saw people in relationships who keep on trying to pursue a relationship when each other,” Cannon says, “not expecting were not ready for them … it was awful.”

I have given you the one to love?’” them [the other person] to know what we’re That was four years ago. Today, on a “God spoke to me that same night, thinking without telling them.” crisp November morning, the engaged saying, ‘Why are you running away from the Mentors have also encouraged Sanders couple sitting before me—Cannon and plans I have for you?’” Cannon chimes in. and Cannon to share their dreams and Tim Sanders—have a completely different That night, Sanders and Cannon both perceptions of marriage with each other. perspective regarding their relationship. knew the Lord was pointing them to each During their “Song of Solomon” pre-marital “[Upon meeting] we were so focused other. They started dating in May 2008 and class, the couple decided to create pacts on things we thought God wanted us to do; last September, Sanders proposed. Cannon with each other, in which discussed how they we almost missed what God was forming in accepted and preparations for the wedding, would handle conflicts in their marriage. our midst,” Sanders While they says, grinning at delight in deepening “You have to have a nice celebration, but that [the wedding] his fiancée. “It was their relationship, an act of God that Sanders and should never be the focus. You have to focus on developing your pulled us together.”

Cannon relationship with one another.” – TIM SANDERS Sanders and acknowledge Cannon met the struggles in through a mutual preparing for friend while they were taking classes at scheduled for the end of June, were soon marriage. One challenge has been making Kapiolani Community College in 2006, underway. the transition from a dating relationship to and they discovered they attended the same At the time of our interview, Sanders engagement, as the couple now considers church. Their friendship flourished when they and Cannon have been immersed in various aspects of their future – ministry, both started attending Pursuit, New Hope wedding planning for a few months. Both careers and starting a family. Sanders O`ahu’s Young Adults ministry at the time. laugh, remembering the initial stages of the and Cannon especially connect with this “Over the next year, our friendship was process. magazine issue’s theme of “preparing for grounded on encouraging each other in our “I had no idea what it takes to pull off fruitfulness,” as they seek fruitfulness in their relationship in the Lord,” Sanders says. “Our a wedding,” Cannon says. “It’s so much to marriage and lives by obeying the Lord. relationship with Jesus was our common think about!”

“I think within all of this [wedding ground.”

“Initially, it was overwhelming,” Sanders preparation], bringing our flaws to the Despite this deeper friendship, Sanders admits, “but as time’s lapsed, the people surface is really the focus so we can honor and Cannon still had their individual we’re getting mentored by helped us focus God through our soon-to-be marriage,” interests in mind – Sanders was praying on preparing for marriage rather than just Sanders says. “The theme [of ‘preparing about another girl whom he thought God preparing for the wedding.” for fruitfulness’] is significant to what we had placed on his heart; Cannon was Sanders and Cannon have been taking want – we just want to glorify God with our still uneasy with the idea of being in a steps to prepare for marriage by seeking relationship.” relationship. However, everything changed counsel from mentors and taking pre-marital after a conversation Sanders and Cannon classes. Advice regarding communication 28 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

“God always has a way to demonstrate His sovereignty. When Christians stalwartly pursue God with no agenda, the by-product can be something they never imagined … it is God’s divine plan coming to fruition.” – TIM SANDERS

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volunteer highlight

Letting Him Lead t e xt J ENN A L E I G H SA I TO i ma g e sL A R RY G A N I R ON

A

s a 13-year-old, Davey Nguyen would attend weekend services at New Hope O`ahu, usually alone.

He could not articulate it, but he knew there was a hole somewhere in his life – a hole that neither friends nor athletics could fill.

One Sunday, after a New Hope service, High School Ministry Youth Pastor Fernando Castillo approached Nguyen, who was 17 years old at the time. Pastor Fernando, Nguyen recalls, asked him if he wanted to go to a youth retreat. Having no money, Nguyen knew attending the youth retreat was not an option, but Pastor Fernando mentioned a work-study opportunity to pay for the camp. Nguyen jumped at the chance. For a little labor at the church office—emptying trashcans and wiping countertops—Nguyen earned his ticket to the youth retreat on Moloka’i. It had never occurred to Nguyen that these simple tasks would be a precursor to a moment of spiritual awakening.

On Moloka’i, Nguyen had a chance to re-evaluate his life and his relationship with God. He wanted a purpose-filled life but did not know where to start.

“When they had worship, I would pray to the Lord,” Nguyen reflects. “I asked God to help me start trusting in Him, that He would take the lead.”

30 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

Nguyen then realized that having a meaningful life correlated with a close relationship with God. “God called me that night to reach people [so they can] find hope in Him,” says Nguyen.

Putting his commitment to God into action, Nguyen’s next step was to volunteer.

For the next seven years, he spent every Sunday at New Hope’s High School Ministry.

Through hands-on training, Nguyen learned how to creatively program a church service – blending skits, videos and songs to effectively convey God’s Word. More importantly, he was setting up a solid foundation by surrounding himself with godly mentors, while being a positive influence on high school youth as a Life Group leader.

During this time, Nguyen continued to volunteer as a Levite until he was eventually invited to join the Levites on staff.

Volunteering set off a domino effect of God’s direction in Nguyen’s life. In 2007, while continuing to volunteer and work at church, God showed Nguyen the next step to take – enrolling at Pacific Rim Christian College. While Nguyen worked toward his bachelor’s degree, he took a missions trip to Argentina. There, he worked in a collaborative effort to restore the town’s clinic, painting buildings and cutting grass.

There, Nguyen says, he witnessed the work

God was doing firsthand.

“It’s a team effort; no one person can do this,” he explains. “Those people in Argentina now have hope because of a group of people following God’s call.” Since then, Nguyen knew he wanted to be a part of God’s work in missions to South America.

Last December, Nguyen received a bachelor’s degree in Pastoral Ministry from Pacific Rim Christian College. Eager to start a life of service as a missionary, he continues to walk on the path God has lead him. Today, you can spot Nguyen frequently around church: he’s usually directing parking for the LEAD-Midweek Service or folding up chairs after church at Farrington or after LEAD-Midweek services.

Nguyen also finds great satisfaction in volunteering with the newly established New Hope Spanish campus, using his skills in set-up and programming. When asked to estimate the amount of time he volunteers on a weekly basis, Nguyen says that he does not count the hours.

“For me, volunteering is a priority,” he states. “Step by step, as I follow Him and am obedient to whatever He wants me to do, I learned that God has a plan for my life.”

Preparing for Financial Fruitness t e x t A N D Y P I KE

Andy Pike has been attending New Hope O`ahu since 2006 and started the Financial Ministry in 2007, answering God’s call to teach sound, biblical, financial principles.

He also teaches Crown Financial Ministries’ class “Managing Our Finances God’s Way,” through Learn@NewHope.

everything you have is a gift from god, and therefore, technically, is not yours at all … it’s His. Deuteronomy 8:18a states, “But remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you the ability to produce wealth.”

To build a detailed spending plan, you only need to do three things: 1.

track all expenses for 30 days: Track every penny of your expenses. If you spend cash, get a receipt or write the expense in a journal. If you use your debit card, rely on the bank statement to show where you spent your money. Don’t forget to add things like your “normal monthly expenses” (rent, car payment, credit card payments, etc.) taxes, 401(k) contributions, tithing and other deductions from your pay. This won’t be easy at first, but I promise it will open your eyes (likely, you’ll be surprised at how much you spend on something within the first two weeks) and change your thinking.

2.

categorize all expenses into a Budget Worksheet: There are many free budget templates available, and if you use software like Microsoft Money, there are budget worksheets available in those programs.

3.

plug in all income sources: This is where the “math” will take place. If your income exceeds your spending, great! If the opposite is true and you have a shortfall, you’ll now have great information (from the 30 days of expense tracking) to help you make a decision about what to change so that you can operate with a surplus each month.

To be best prepared for financial fruitfulness, you need a plan. Planning is critical to financial success. In Luke 14:28, Jesus said, “But don’t begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it?” On a related note, Proverbs 21:5 says, “Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.”

Stewardship is essential for financial fruitfulness. Proverbs 27:23 talks about a planning that is critical – “Know the state of your flocks and put your heart into caring for your herds.”

Caring for your financial “herds” is defined as stewardship. A steward is defined as: “… a person who manages another’s property or financial affairs; one who administers anything as the agent of another or others.” In other words, God expects us, as His “agents,” to manage His money wisely. God blesses us financially and spiritually and He expects us to use (steward) our gifts wisely.

The Bible emphasizes the importance of planning. Luke 16:11 says, “If you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven?” I believe we’ll have to account for our stewardship (or lack thereof) of God’s gifts here on earth.

The foundational document in financial planning is the budget or spending plan. I have discovered that a lot of people often don’t have any idea where their money goes each month. Thus, having a spending plan makes perfect sense. Proverbs 21:20 tells us, “The wise man saves for the future, but the foolish man spends whatever he gets.”

Interested in attending the “Managing Our Finances God’s Way” class this spring? For more information, contact learn@eNewHope.org.

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t e x t K E L L I SHI RO M A i m a g e sD E R R E K M I YA H A R A

32 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

You see them leading worship, dancing and acting on stage. They also operate the lights and sound during the weekend services.

But what goes on in the Frontlines Ministry when the stage lights dim and the auditorium is empty? In this issue, Life at its

Best magazine talks with the leaders of Frontlines about their ministry and how they prepare behind the scenes.

T

he whole concept of the Frontlines Ministry derives from 2 Chronicles 20, in which an enemy army is marching against Jehoshaphat. Instead of commanding Jehoshaphat to send out his soldiers, the Lord instructs him to send the singers out first. Following this example, the Frontlines Ministry—or creative arts department—helps to prepare the congregation to receive the message during New Hope O`ahu’s services.

“That’s why we praise and worship,” explains Pastor Rod Shimabukuro, who oversees the Frontlines Ministry. “We’re exalting the Lord and we’re also doing battle to see the work of the Lord happen in the hearts of people.”

The Frontlines Ministry is synonymous with the Evangelism fractal, one of New Hope O`ahu’s “pillars” for spiritual growth.

The Evangelism fractal also includes the programming, creative arts, technical and service support ministries, according to Technical Director and Producer John Tilton.

“Under programming, it’s [the weekend services] conceptualized and planned; under Frontlines, it’s artistically created, then it goes to the technical teams to support it and the service support teams handle logistics,” Tilton explains.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the different areas of the Frontlines Ministry.

PROGRAMMING

Creating an artistic presentation for a weekend service starts with the programming ministry, who plans and orchestrates the ideas and elements for the weekend services.

“I work with the musical director, the

vocal director, the video director, the dance director and with each team of dancers as well,” explains Lanu Tilton, who serves as one of the programming directors, along with Wendy Kinimaka.

Once they receive a pastor’s message synopsis, the programming teams discuss various elements—such as a song—that would best bring out the sermon. To prepare for this brainstorm, Tilton researches these creative elements, using websites like Worship House Media. When the team comes to a decision, Tilton contacts each area of the Frontlines Ministry to set the details in advance.

In addition to being a programming director, Tilton is also one of the producers.

This role gives Tilton a different perspective of a weekend’s program.

“The producer sees it [the program] from a different angle because they see everything unfold,” Tilton explains. “You’re up in the booth, so you’re able to see and feel the reaction of the congregation; you can sense when something is really hitting them.”

One of the joys of being involved with Frontlines is using her passions to advance God’s Kingdom, according to Tilton.

“I believe arts in the church are the most unused weapons of warfare,” Tilton says.

“The arts itself is not powerful, but hook it up with the Holy Spirit and it’s a weapon.”

VOCALS

The vocal team—usually six to 12 individuals—leads worship at the beginning of church services. The singers volunteer during weekends they are available; thus, teams vary every weekend, according to Creative Director Dane Ison.

“They’re asked to be able to sing at least once a month,” Ison says. “One of the

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blessings is that we have quite a number of singers. It gives them the opportunity to serve but also focus on their own walk and family.”

To prepare for the services, the vocal team scheduled for a particular weekend meets on Thursday night to practice. The vocal team rehearses once more during sound check time on Saturday. For normal weekend services, the vocal team reports for their sound checks at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday and at 5:40 a.m. on Sunday.

For special church services—like Easter—the process is slightly different. If there is an adult community choir, choir members rehearse two or three Sundays prior to the weekend services. The vocal team might practice two or three weeks in advance as well, depending on the program.

Auditions for the vocal team are held every six months. When individuals audition, they go through a shadowing process that shows them what to expect if they were members of Frontlines.

“We have them come in early [to a weekend service] to see the sound check time, blocking and sometimes choreography,” Ison says.

To many, being a part of the vocal team can seem intimidating. Ison emphasizes, though, that the ministry’s focus is on God, 34 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

not on the singers’ performances.

“During technical rehearsals, we have to try to learn the right notes,” Ison explains, “but once we’re on stage, it’s important that our hearts come through most. Putting Him first is our main focus.”

own. As the event draws nearer, the band and vocal team do a combined rehearsal and a final rehearsal the day of the event.

For regular weekend services, the band rehearses once, right before the services.

Alcain makes sure that the team is prepared

“A song, a sketch, a dance, a video can cut straight to the heart— the most hardened heart—and crack it, so the person is open to hear the Word.” – LANU TILTON MuSIC

Whether it involves accompanying vocal team members or the instrumentals preceding weekend services, music is an essential part of the Frontlines Ministry.

Music Director Fred Alcain is responsible for all the music at the weekend services and special events.

“I choose the worship lists, arrange the music for the band and schedule the teams [for the weekends],” Alcain summarizes.

The band’s rehearsal schedule is different from that of the vocal team. To prepare for special events, the Frontlines Ministry does sectional rehearsals first – the band and vocal team will practice on their

for the weekend, though, by making all the recordings and charts accessible beforehand.

Alcain compares many of the band’s procedures to those of a normal entertainment company but with a different focus.

“We do some of the things that are standard in any entertainment company – documentation for our program book, stage plots, input lists, scripts and music charts,” Alcain says. “It’s like a production company, but the end goal is completely different.”

Like Ison, Alcain stresses the importance of honoring God through the Frontlines members’ performances.

“God gets all the glory behind it,”

he affirms. “We want to make sure we’re preparing technically, but it all starts with honoring God and seeking what He wants first.”

DANCE MINISTRY

DRAMA MINISTRY

Responsible for doing all the stage dramas in Frontlines, the drama team includes about 20 people of various ages and backgrounds. When it comes to acting, variety is essential, according to Drama Ministry Leader Mark Ganialongo.

“You need to have various ages to portray a realistic family,” he says. “We try to do real life snippets with all of our sketches.”

The programming team contacts the drama ministry about a week in advance when a sketch is needed for the weekend services. Upon receiving the sketch on Tuesday, the drama ministry rehearses on Wednesday and Friday before performing on Saturday.

Even if a sketch is not included as part of a church service’s program, drama ministry members meet weekly for two hours to work

The New Hope O`ahu Dance Ministry encompasses various dance ministries, such as the hip hop ministry and “Hearts in Motion” (school of dance). Led by Director Donnalei Gaison, the dance ministry has a much deeper purpose than performing on stage.

“It’s [the ministry] about living, breathing and dancing the words,” she says. “It has nothing to do with a stage; it has to do with reaching people.”

The programming team usually gives Gaison a song for the dance ministry to perform for weekend services a week in advance.

“What’s amazing is the excellence that is presented—the professionalism—is Typical dance produced by ‘every day heroes.’ It’s not about one person; it’s this gathering of rehearsals are held twice a week, people with different gifts but with lots of heart, passion and willingness to serve ranging from onethat brings this incredible production for Jesus together.” – Pastor Rod Shimabukuro and-a-half to fourand-a-half hours.

Gaison on their acting skills. acknowledges that overseeing the dance “Acting requires a lot of practice and ministry can be challenging, especially discipline,” Ganialongo explains. “You can when a program’s songs change at the last always grow as an actor.” minute. Despite these challenges, Gaison The drama ministry’s mission statement focuses on mirroring Christ through her is to share Jesus through drama. To do this, leadership.

Ganialongo emphasizes that growth in three “I want to be a good reflection of God; I areas—acting, spiritual life and creative always try to look positive,” she says. ability—is crucial.

While one of the ministry’s joys is “You have to be a good actor; that reaching others for Christ through dance, would require skill building in acting,” he Gaison says there are many miracles within says. “The second area is spiritual life; you the ministry itself. Because dance is like can’t share Jesus unless you know Jesus. an “international language,” it becomes The third area is creative ability; to be able a vessel God uses to bring the Gospel to write and direct sketches in a way that forward, according to Gaison. appeal to people.”

“Many of our dancers’ families have Challenges of the drama ministry include never gone to church, but they’ll come trying to learn hard sketches or, at times, to church to watch their granddaughter receiving sketches at the last minute. The dance,” she explains. “It’s not by chance; it’s ultimate reward for drama ministry members, all in God’s plan.” though, is watching God work through a The songs that dance ministry members sketch, Ganialongo says. learn not only influence their families and “I love it when we have to depend on the congregation; they impact them as well.

God for everything,” he says. “It [the sketch] “In the midst of us learning it [the song], always comes through because we lean it touches each girl differently,” Gaison says. completely on God.” “It ministers to us first and I think that’s even more effective when we’re dancing and it’s ministering through us to them.”

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Although they are not the ones performing on stage, members of the technical, multimedia and service support ministries are crucial to aiding members of Frontlines. Here’s a peek at what they do before, during and after weekend services.

THE TECHNICAL MINISTRY: SOUND & LIGHTING MINISTRIES

They often go unseen during a creative presentation, but members of the technical ministry are integral to aiding Frontlines’ productions. The technical ministry includes the sound, lighting, stage décor and technician teams.

“The tech ministries are the supportive part of Frontlines,” says Guy Arakaki, sound ministry leader. “We put everything together in the sense of presentation.”

After the programming team plans a creative production, Arakaki learns what materials are needed for the presentation.

A tech meeting is then held, during which a “visualizing” of the upcoming church service takes place.

Members of the sound ministry arrive on Friday night or Saturday morning to set up for the creative performance. Their responsibilities include turning on the sound system, double-checking sound equipment and overseeing the overflow tent’s sound system set up and operation.

Like members of the sound ministry, lighting ministry members—led by Eddie Ogimi—also arrive early to conduct light checks for the Frontlines performances.

“We program the light board; all the lighting changes are in cues,” Ogimi explains.

After the 5 p.m. service on Saturdays, the tech ministries hold a debrief meeting, during which they discuss the service and see if changes need to be made. If changes are

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necessary, they are applied to the following service. These changes, however, can be a challenge to members of the tech ministries, who then need to make adjustments to their sound and light boards.

Despite these struggles, the tech ministries emphasize the joy they feel whenever they see hands raised to accept Christ during an altar call.

“We see all the tears, the emotions, the joy,” Arakaki says. “All things we struggled with are worth it.”

MULTIMEDIA MINISTRY

At New Hope O`ahu, the multimedia ministry is its own ministry because it’s a major element in everything the church does. Whether it’s creating “New Hope in Action” segments or providing screens for the weekend services, members of the multimedia ministry are often supporting Frontlines behind the scenes … literally.

“Most people see the cameras and videos that are used for the weekend services,” explains Tim Savage, director of New Hope Television. “What they may not see is we do all of the shooting, editing and writing for the videos that get played back in service.”

Multimedia ministry members’ work mainly occurs before or after weekend services. For example, to put together a single episode of “New Hope in Action,” it takes one person about 40 hours of work.

If a testimony is included in the program, it takes multiple people more than 80 hours to create it.

“Video takes a lot longer than most people would guess,” Savage says. “You have to concept a story; you have to prepare for interviews; you have to set up the interview and shoot it; take everything you’ve done and listen to it again; cobble together a story; put in the pictures to illustrate the

stories; and put in music and mix it.”

Despite the time it takes to create a few minutes of video or longer TV specials, Savage says one of the highlights of the multimedia ministry is connecting with their subjects on a deeper level.

“When you’re doing a video on a person or a family, you get the opportunity to meet them in depth,” he says. “We’ve gotten to form some intimate relationships with people that otherwise, we wouldn’t have known.”

SERVICE SUPPORT: MALAMA MINISTRY

Frontlines members are bound to get hungry during a weekend of serving. Led by Lolly Chun, the Malama ministry provides dinner for the Frontlines Ministry every Saturday evening. The Malama ministry— along with the producers and special guest coordination—is under the service support tier of the Evangelism fractal.

During the week, Chun receives an e-mail from the programming director so the Malama ministry knows how many people are scheduled to serve in Frontlines on that particular weekend.

“On average, we usually serve 100 to 125 people,” Chun says.

Chun organizes four rotating teams— who serve once a month—within the Malama ministry. Every team comprises four to five individuals, who divide up the dishes to prepare.

Although the Malama ministry is on the smaller side, Chun focuses on the joy of serving God and others.

“A lot of things have to happen in the back for it [a weekend service] all to come together,” she says. “Our ministry is just about hearts wanting to serve.”

“One of the highlights is the joy of serving with these people. The joy that they have to do something for God this way—in an ensemble piece or group number—and just make beautiful music.”

Dane Ison “We’re a very servant-driven ministry, so to supply the teams for a church of our size through our volunteers is a challenge on our part, but it’s also a testament to the hearts of our servants.”

Fred Alcain “A highlight is seeing God work through creative and technical arts, as we present the hope and good news of Jesus in creative ways that reach out and touch the hearts of people.”

Pastor Rod Shimabukuro

“I think what sets New Hope apart is our belief that the Gospel should be communicated wholly, without compromising the Word … we believe it can be communicated in a creative, artistic and innovative way.” – John Tilton

“God is the ultimate ‘Programmer.’

So many times, we’ll put together a program and it’ll change for the better … just watching it unfold God’s way is amazing.”

Lanu Tilton

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“Being healthy allows us to do whatever He’s called us to do, to the best of our ability. If your body is in good condition, then you’re going to be able to carry out your calling.” – WAYNE HUDSON

A Launch for Christ t e x t K E L L I S H I R OM A i m a g esLAR RY GANI R ON

Launching a fitness company never occurred to Wayne Hudson. Although he majored in exercise science in college, Hudson never dreamed of starting his own physical training company one day.

“I majored in exercise science because I was always into sports and working out,” he reflects. “In that sense, it was always a part of my lifestyle, but I never thought I would be doing it for a living.”

After graduating from college, Hudson returned to O`ahu and became a trainer at 24 Hour Fitness. A few years later, two of Hudson’s friends asked him to join them in starting a training company. He agreed and worked there for the next five years.

At the time he partnered with his two friends, Hudson acknowledges that he was still young in his faith. However, as he grew in his relationship with God and began getting involved in more ministries at New Hope O`ahu, Hudson realized his heart was being changed.

“I started noticing my values were a lot different from their [my two partners’] values,” he says. “The things we held as priority were different.”

The idea of leaving his two partners and launching his own physical fitness company was in the back of Hudson’s mind for several months, but he wanted to make sure it was the right decision.

“I was always praying and asking God, ‘Do you want me to do this?’” Hudson says. “Having that faith in God to actually go out and do what He asked me to do wasn’t easy,

38 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011

but that’s why I know God wanted it to happen … because I had to find my strength in Him.” After five months of planning, Hudson’s new company— Launch Hawaii—officially opened in September 2009. At Launch Hawaii, Hudson offers a variety of services to both, training athletes and individuals who want a healthier lifestyle.

“I want it [Launch Hawaii] to be not just for elite athletes, but also for people who are just trying to get into shape,” he explains. “It covers a broad spectrum [of people].”

In terms of obeying his calling, Hudson knows Launch Hawaii, though a young company, is fulfilling what God asked of him.

“My vision was to create a positive environment where you would experience God while getting a good workout,” he shares. “I get to develop relationships with them [my clients].

They know my faith, so I try to share the Word, what I believe in and the way it influences me.”

When Hudson contemplates Launch Hawaii’s potential, he remains open to God’s plans. Hudson, who has been involved in the worship teams for LEAD-Midweek and Fuse, prefers to wait for God’s direction and timing in regards to his company ’s future.

“I would like to see it keep growing, but it’s one of those things I want to leave up to God,” Hudson says. “If it gets really big, I’d be too busy to do ministry. I don’t want to get to the point where I forget about my roots and what got me to where I am now.”

HAWAII

Fitness Tips

HAWAII

t e x t WAY N E H U D S ON im a g esJUS T I N S M I T H

FOR THE BEGINNERS (Those Looking to Start Getting Back into Shape) 1. Start Slow – Start with just 10 minutes of exercise and slowly increase it to 30 minutes. Break 30 minutes up throughout the day; it doesn’t have to be done all at once.

2. Do an Activity You Enjoy – For example, if you enjoy swimming, use that as your exercise. The same goes for tennis, bike riding and racquetball, to name a few other activities that can double as an exercise routine.

3. Expand Your Exercise Time – You can exercise at home or at the office. From your chair, sit down and stand to your feet.

Repeat 10 times in a row. You can also do 20 push-ups on the wall in a standing position.

FOR THE ADVANCED (Those Already Actively Working Out) 1. Start With Active Stretching – It is important to start your workout with active or dynamic stretching. Active stretching will increase your heart rate, body temperature and increase blood flow to your working muscles, which will prepare you for physical activity. It also wakes up those dormant muscles that haven’t been used in a while.

2. Work Multiple Muscle Groups – If you’re trying to lose fat, don’t focus on training isolated muscles. Instead, involve the whole body when you’re working out.

3. Cut Down Your Rest Period – Reducing the length of your rest time between sets will allow you to do more work in a given amount of time and increase the amount of calories burned.

4. Group Your Exercises – Instead of doing one exercise, group two or three different exercises together and perform them in a row as a circuit. Do this for two or three sets. This breaks up the monotony of a routine and will also challenge your metabolic system, causing your body to burn more calories and lose fat.

5. Train Smart – Take the time to rest and allow your body to recover. Using a foam roll after workouts is a great tool.

It is a form of self-massage that breaks up any type of fascia (connective tissue that surrounds muscles) restriction, while increasing the blood flow and elongating the muscles. This will help prevent injury while allowing you to stay consistent with your workout routine.

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In

FullBloom te xtKE LLI S H I R OM A im a g esLAUR A AGUON

Born and raised in Hawaii, former New Hope vocalist Tiffany Thurston has been sharing her music—as well as the “Aloha Spirit”—with millions of others nationwide while touring with The Revolve Tour and Christian recording artist Natalie Grant. In this issue, Life at its Best magazine catches up with Thurston, who fills us in on her past three years on tour, her most recent projects and what’s coming up next.

D

espite touring across the continental United States for the past three years and living in Nashville, Tenn., Tiffany Thurston is still a local girl at heart.

Friendly and genuine, Thurston—a mixture of Hawaiian, Chinese, English, Portuguese, Irish, Tahitian, French and German ethnicities—laughs often, cracks jokes and even shares her full name during our interview in late November.

“My name is Tiffany Kananimae’oleonalaniki’eki’eloa Thurston, but you can just call me ‘Tiff,’” she says nonchalantly, rattling off her long middle name with ease.

The past three years have been a whirlwind for Thurston, who, prior to embarking on The Revolve Tour—a conference for teenage girls ages 12-18—was a staff member at New Hope O`ahu.

Thurston, who started attending New Hope in 1995, began serving on the worship team after graduating from high school in 1998.

After she graduated from college in 2004, Thurston served on staff at New Hope as the vocal director and, a year later, as the creative director.

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“Something different happened when I started singing for the Lord,” Thurston says, recalling her early years on the worship team.

“I always wanted to be a singer, but when I started singing for something much bigger than myself, something clicked in my heart. I knew that was something God had called me to do.”

Thurston left New Hope at the end of 2006 because she felt God was calling her into a new season, although she was not sure what this entailed. A few months later, Thurston got a phone call from Natalie Grant, who pitched the idea of joining The Revolve Tour to her.

“She [Natalie] had seen me and hadn’t heard me sing in a while, but she felt the Lord was speaking to her that ‘this girl is supposed to be on The Revolve Tour,’” Thurston says. “She, in faith, called me […] she had no idea that I just left my job at New Hope three months prior to that phone call.”

Four months later, Thurston got a call from the company behind The Revolve Tour, who eventually hired her to lead worship. Thus, Thurston started touring with The Revolve Tour for its third season, which lasted from September 2007 to February 2008. That season of The Revolve Tour encompassed 14 major U.S. cities; every

“I’m so grateful that New Hope was that place I was able to be used and to develop not just my craft, but my character in that really great body of Christ.” – TIFFANY THURSTON

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weekend was a two-day event, with a Friday night concert and a Saturday conference.

While on The Revolve Tour, Thurston became better friends with Grant, who was also on the tour. Grant eventually hired Thurston to tour with her.

In between leading worship for The Revolve Tour and singing with Grant, Thurston was busy with other projects, such as working on her own records.

“It’s [touring] pretty much the same thing I was Thurston’s first record—an doing back home … just serving with your whole independent heart and doing your best with what God has given album called “L.I.F.E.,” you and where He’s placed you.” standing for “Love, Inspire, Forgive, Eternity”—was released in September 2007. Thurston recorded her second record, “WORSHIP w/Tiffany Thurston,” last summer and it was released on Sept. 21. According to Thurston, the seven-song album is a snapshot of what she has been dong in worship for the last three years.

“It [‘L.I.F.E.’] was my first project, and it was the first time I put out my own real music,” Thurston says. “I put something together [for ‘WORSHIP w/Tiffany Thurston’] with some of my favorite musicians from Nashville, some of my favorite worship songs and making some of my favorite arrangements of those songs. It really is a resource, hopefully not only to the church, but also to refresh people’s time of worship.”

With Grant’s fall tour having wrapped up earlier during November, Thurston looks forward to spending some down time with family and friends in the next two months. In January 2011, she’s gearing up to embark on The Revolve Tour’s sixth season, which

will last until April.

Although she’s spent a lot of time away from her home and family recently, Thurston never forgets her local roots and how her years at New Hope O`ahu have impacted her life.

“Those years [at New Hope] were very formitive years,” Thurston reflects. “I’m so thankful that the Lord gave me a church and a family, an ‘ohana. It was really a place where I was able to bloom.”

The significance of “blooming where you’re planted” is a lesson Thurston has taken to heart. When girls ask her for advice on how she’s gotten this far, Thurston gives the same answer every time.

“I always tell them, ‘Bloom where you’re planted,’” she says. “‘There’s a reason you’re in your town, your church and your community; God wants to use you now.’”

While she knows what she’ll be doing for the first third of 2011, Thurston still has many long-term goals in mind. Some of her future aspirations include creating more records, standing up for issues she’s passionate about—like preventing human trafficking—and developing a system to help others “bloom where they’re planted.”

Regardless of where she goes, however, Hawaii and New Hope O`ahu will always hold a special place in Thurston’s heart.

Reflecting on her years serving at New Hope O`ahu, Thurston realizes how God was preparing her for every step of her journey thus far.

“All the things I learned back home …

I saw how they applied to what I did in this season of life,” Thurston says. “God didn’t waste anything; He used every single thing to make me stronger for this next season. He used everything to prepare me.”

Keep up with Tiffany Thurston at http://tiffanythurston.com.

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P HOTO b Y DE RRE K MI YAHARA

gems along the way

Developing His Likeness te xtWAYNE COR DE I R O

When you are “born again,” you will begin to see things as Jesus sees them, and your desires will start to become like Jesus’ desires.

Dear Amy,

Yesterday, I went to pick you up at school. When I walked into your classroom, one of the first graders, Edward, said, “Are you Amy’s daddy?”

exemplary. After watching and studying these tennis greats, he has that “form” in his mind, but when he attempts to duplicate that on the court, his resemblance is more like a tennis cartoon than a tennis great.

“Why would you ask?” I said.

“Well, she looks just like you.” Although it doesn’t seem that obvious to me, likeness is an obvious sign of relationship. My relationship to you showed in that likeness before Edward found out my name.

When we are “born again,” there is a process of likeness that begins. You will begin to see things as Jesus sees them, and your desires will start to become more like Jesus’ desires. Don’t fight against these changes within you.

In Galatians 4:19, Paul said that he wanted Christ to be “formed” in the Galatian Christians.

That word – “formed” – is from the Greek word “morphos.” This means a metamorphosis, or changing like a caterpillar becoming a butterfly. Inside that caterpillar is a butterfly, and a metamorphosis takes place when the “inner” becomes the “outward.”

An example of this is like a tennis player who has just begun taking lessons. He watches videos of great tennis players whose “form” is

Nevertheless, he practices, disciplines himself, and, under his coach’s watchful care, that inner gradually becomes the outer. And, little by little, he develops that tennis “form” for which the greats are known.

That is what the Bible is talking about – that Christ be “formed” in you. That the One who lives in your heart now begins to influence your words, actions and attitudes.

My prayer, Amy, is that the likeness of Jesus would be formed in you.

I am praying that the inner image of Jesus in you will find outward expression in everything you do!

Looking like H im, Dad

P.S. By the way, that Edward guy has an eye for good looks … don’t you think?

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february 2-4, 2011

n e w h o p e o`a h u m i n i s t r y c e n t e r and Farrington High School Auditorium

Join us for “Simply Jesus,” a conference sponsored by New Hope O`ahu’s “Doing Church as a Team” ministry. Here’s a preview of what you can expect at “Simply Jesus.”

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REGISTRATION INFORMATION Online registration for “Simply Jesus” is available on the New Hope O`ahu website. For more information, go to http://www.enewhope.org/simplyjesus.

Pricing for the “Simply Jesus” conference is as follows:

plenary speakers PASTOR WAYNE CORDEIRO

Pastor Wayne Cordeiro is the founding pastor of New Hope O`ahu in Honolulu, Hawaii, with more than 14,500 in weekend attendance. Cordeiro is a church planter at heart, with more than 108 churches planted in the Pacific Rim countries of Japan, Australia, Myanmar and the Philippines. Most recently, Cordeiro has accepted the role of president over his alma mater, Eugene Bible College in Oregon, now known as New Hope Christian College (NHCC). Cordeiro and his wife, Anna, now split their time between Oregon and Hawaii.

PASTOR FRANCIS CHAN

Pastor Francis Chan is the founder and former pastor of Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley, Calif. Founded in 1994, Cornerstone has since grown to become one of the largest churches in California’s Ventura County. Chan is also the author of best-selling novel, Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God, and is the founder and chancellor of Eternity Bible College in Simi Valley. A renowned pastor, Chan regularly speaks at major conferences and events both nationally and internationally.

$10 – Pre-conference $25 – NHO & campus affiliates $35 – NH affiliates & Kamaaina churches $99 – Out-of-state guests Special rates available online for Pacific Rim Christian College, FUSE or LEAD Center satellite viewing.

RESOURCES INFORMATION Check out best-sellers from our plenary speakers, available at New Hope Resources today! Resources are limited. got questions about the “simply Jesus” conference?

Contact Donna Mae Katsura at donnamae@eNewHope.org.

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breakout sessions pASToRS DAVE BARR, MIKE lWIN AND FERNANDo CASTIllo – “Simply leadership for Team Building”

During the last decade, New Hope has given birth to several daughter churches in O`ahu, among them New Hope Leeward, New Hope Windward and New Hope Diamond Head. During this breakout session, you will hear from the founding senior pastors of these three churches in a forum format. They will discuss the leadership principles that helped them to build effective teams and brought much fruit in their thriving churches.

pASToR ElWIN AHu – “leading in Transition”

Life is full of transitional seasons, whether it’s in the seasons of the year when spring turns into summer, then fall to winter; in our life stages, from youth to adolescence and into adulthood; or in ministry, when the baton of leadership passes from one to another. It seems the greatest “storms” seem to develop in those transitional periods when uncertainties and ambivalence tend to discourage leaders from what they do best: to lead. Romans 12:8 exhorts those with the gift of leadership to lead “with diligence.” This breakout session will provide practical life lessons in leadership that will equip every person to lead well and how to be “Simply Jesus,” especially during seasons of transitions, whether in life or in ministry.

pASToR JoHN TIlToN – “Simply Joseph and Job: A New Beginning – Rising from the Ruins”

Many of us have or will find ourselves having to rise from the ruins of circumstance, choices or conflict. Today, more than ever, people are finding themselves having to deal with unemployment, financial ruin, divorce, loss of a loved one or terminal illness, just to name a few situations. We often wonder, “Why do good people suffer?” Yet, God’s perspective of people in the midst of ruins is opportunities for His glory, love and grace to shine. Joseph and Job are magnificent mentors for us to receive, learn and grow out of past, present or future ruins in which we find ourselves. Come and experience a soul-searching teaching and testimony.

GuY AND loRI HIGASHI – “Simply Honest” (About Marriage)

“Happily married” is not an oxymoron. Marriage is God’s plan to make us holy and is designed to bring pleasure to the core of our souls, yet, we easily settle for a mediocre marriage. It is time for us to be honest with ourselves, with our spouses and, most importantly, with God. Let’s talk about real issues, including the threeletter word “sex.” Marriage is the example of God’s love for the Church. Let’s be an example for the watching world.

DR. RANDAll FuRuSHIMA – “Simple Sabbath”

Dr. Randall Y. Furushima is the academic vice-president at Pacific Rim Christian College.

There is a misunderstanding that the word “Sabbath” in the Bible simply means “rest.” There is a deeper meaning to this concept. God was not just trying to tell us how important it is to rest, but to see the Sabbath as a way to give testimony to God and to others that “enough is enough.” It is saying “no” to the demanding things that occupy our time, including more work. “Sabbath” means a return to simply embrace Jesus in our lives. In this breakout session, discover the biblical foundations of what it means to be a “Sabbath” people and how we can say “yes” to the right things and “no” to what we do not need.

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lARRY poWERS – “All We Need is Jesus”

Larry Powers oversees the Bible and Theology Department at New Hope Christian College (NHCC).

Late one afternoon by the Sea of Galilee, the disciples got to be a part of an astounding miracle that Jesus did. What the disciples learned that day is a timeless lesson they never forgot, a lesson every believer needs to continually be reminded of – “all we need is Jesus.” In this breakout session, we’ll learn about how Jesus delights in taking ordinary people and using them to do extraordinary things. We will learn that, if we give our lives and all we have to Jesus, it’s truly amazing what He can do with us.

GARY MATSDoRF – “Life in the Wilderness … Godʼs Path to Making Me Like Jesus” Gary Matsdorf is the executive director of New Hope Christian College (NHCC).

Paul defines the goal of Christianity as predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son (Rom. 8:29) or, as he put it to the Ephesians, becoming mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ (Eph. 4:13). This goal is basic and paramount to life with Jesus.

Israel’s journey from Egypt to Mt. Sinai depicts the path God takes every believer on in order to bring about this goal in his life. In this breakout session, Matsdorf will address the highlights of that journey, giving theological insight and practical application.

q&a with pastor wayne Q: What prompted you to create the conference around the theme of “simply Jesus” and why do you think this theme is important? a: “Simply Jesus” is a new conference experience that will be the theme of our annual “Doing Church as a Team (DCAT)” conference. “Simply Jesus” is all about ratcheting back to the purity and simplicity of walking with Jesus and staying current with the Holy Spirit. In the Book of Acts, there were very few conferences and fewer bookstores. There was no Internet, Christian magazines or youth groups, yet city after city was transformed by the power of God. Q: What will you be discussing in your evening plenary sessions? a: On Wednesday night, my plenary is titled, “WWJD (What Would Jesus Do).”

Jesus’ life was lived as an example for us to “follow in His steps,” and He made it very simple. We have complicated things and made it a subculture that is designed to coexist with the world’s culture. But God did not ask us to coexist with the world; He asked and empowered us to transform it.

On Thursday night, we’ll talk about the “Power of Worship” and how it breaks strongholds, sets us free and draws us closer to His best.

Q: What can attendees expect at “simply Jesus” and what will they take away? a: There will be a lot of great breakout sessions with new topics. I invited Gary Matsdorf and Larry Powers from our New Hope Christian College (in Oregon) to speak and that will be a huge blessing. Overall, the attendees can expect a great conference and I’m excited for them and their future. They’ll take away a calling that is re-ignited and a heart that yearns for “simply Jesus.”

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Marketplace Leadership Workshop t e xt KELL I SHI RO MA i ma g e sD E R R E K M I YA H A R A

LooKing to deveLop your Business Leadership skills or longing to connect spiritually with others in the marketplace? Mark your calendars for “A Leadership Workshop Presented by John Maxwell,” sponsored by the New Hope O`ahu Marketplace Ministry.

The idea of having a leadership workshop stemmed from the pau hana hour held every Wednesday for members of the Marketplace Ministry, according to Extension Director Ryan Tsuji.

“The pau hana hour connected people in the marketplace and provided networking time,” he explains. “We decided to evolve that and changed it into this workshop series, where we’re equipping the marketplace leaders and those in marketplace leadership.”

The workshop—starting on Feb. 23 at 5 p.m. at the Ministry Center—is the first of an eight-week class session.

“We hope that people see their workplace in the business community as more than just work, but as an opportunity to witness to their peers.” – RYAN TSUJI Individuals involved in the marketplace will have the opportunity to network and develop as leaders by following a series by John Maxwell. Maxwell is an international speaker, author and leadership expert, well known as the founder of the non-profit organization “EQUIP” that has trained more than five million leaders around the world. After the weekly lesson, facilitators will divide attendees into small groups to discuss the material that was presented. Each workshop session will conclude with prayer time. Thus, these workshops not only provide business leaders with skills and practical lessons, but also with spiritual support from others in the marketplace.

“It’s more than just the building of a leader; we’re trying to help them connect spiritually,” Tsuji summarizes.

The Marketplace Ministry started about one-and-a-half years ago as a way to connect marketplace leaders and those in the business community of New Hope O`ahu. In addition to providing a way for these individuals to network with one another, the ministry also presented opportunities for them to share their faith in the workplace. To provide opportunities for members to grow as leaders, the Marketplace Ministry hosts quarterly leadership workshops featuring guest speakers.

The Ministry also supports members’ businesses through the annual business directory. Other past Marketplace Ministry events include service projects like food drives and hosting a panel of local successful business people.

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The eight-week leadership workshop is the newest facet of the Marketplace Ministry, designed to encourage spiritual growth and support in the workplace, according to Tsuji.

“It’s [the leadership workshop] a different tier,” he says.

“We want to support them as a leader; we want to support them through networking; we want to support their businesses through the business directory; and we want to support them spiritually and equip them through this workshop.”

While business managers will benefit from these seminars, the Marketplace Ministry is not limited to those already in leadership positions. Tsuji emphasizes that the Marketplace Ministry is meant for all individuals in the business community.

“It’s open to anyone who is in the marketplace or works in a business-related environment,” Tsuji says. “We want to educate and support our marketplace leaders; we want to help them share their faith in their businesses and throughout the community.”

Registration for “A Leadership Workshop Presented by John Maxwell” is limited to 75 individuals.

Interested in registering for the leadership workshop? Contact Melinda for more information Melindaroworth@gmail.com.

Perseverance through Pain te xtKE LLI S H I R OM A im a g esLAR RY GANI RON

P

atrick Hamlow is no stranger to injury. When he was about seven years old, Hamlow was hit by a car and thrown more than 150 feet. While stationed in San Diego as part of the U.S. Navy in 1987, Hamlow was shot twice, but his bulletproof vest saved his life. Even at his job as an adult correctional officer at the Halawa Correctional Facility, Hamlow was assaulted and stabbed while on duty.

Perhaps the most life-changing injury for Hamlow, however, was his most recent one – the loss of his left leg, which was amputated just below the knee in 2009.

“I was the temporary assigned sergeant for the module for special holding, and four of my inmates flooded their cell with urine and feces,” Hamlow remembers. “I had to go in and shut the water off, so I had to walk through two to three inches of contaminated water.”

As a result, Hamlow developed a triple staph infection—caused by one or more pathogenic species—in his left leg, which attacked the bones in his foot. Initially, it seemed that only two of Hamlow’s toes needed to be amputated. However, as the infection became more aggressive, the doctors decided to amputate Hamlow’s leg below his knee to get rid of the infection completely.

“I said, ‘If it’s going to be a matter of him losing his life or losing his leg, I can deal with the loss of the leg,’” says Renee, Patrick’s wife. “At first it was kind of hard, but we adjusted.”

For an active individual like Hamlow, one would expect this kind of injury to be a major setback or hindrance. Hamlow, however, with his positive attitude and determination, viewed it more as a delay. As

soon as the surgery was done, he wasted no time learning how to become mobile again.

“The first day after surgery, I told her [Renee] to find me a walker,” Hamlow says. “The next day, she brought me a pair of crutches … I was going up and down the hallways with crutches.”

As positive as he is about his situation, Hamlow acknowledges that his greatest struggle was being able to get back to normalcy.

Because of his leg injury, Hamlow is not permitted to return to work at the Halawa Correctional Facility. Although he misses his job, Hamlow knows that God allows everything to happen for a reason.

He shares how much God taught him about patience and being able to listen to the Lord’s direction.

“No matter where you go or what you do, God’s been there,” Hamlow says. “As long as you remember the Lord and you pray, it’s always good.”

While Hamlow has increased his mobility since the surgery and enjoys activities with his family, life still presents many challenges. At the time of our interview, he is recovering from a heart surgery he had in September, resulting from a heart attack. In addition, Hamlow acknowledges that finances are an area of struggle, since he cannot work in his current condition.

Despite these trials, Hamlow remains optimistic and continues to place all his trust in God. Hamlow’s various life-threatening experiences have also increased his appreciation for his family, as he views each new day God gives him as a blessing.

“I treasure life more,” Hamlow says earnestly. “I treasure my wife, my kids, my family … and I thank the good Lord each day for all of them.”

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recipe

Healthy Recipes

i m a g esLE V I M cCALLUM

With the start of a new year, many people resolve to have healthier lifestyles. Here are three easy-to-make recipes— for breakfast, lunch and dinner—to give you a head start on healthy eating.

ASPARAGUS EGG SCRAMBLE

GREEK TURKEY BURGERS

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

By Raeceen Woolford

3 large eggs 4-6 spears asparagus 2 T diced sun-dried tomatoes (in oil from container or just dried) ¼ C goat cheese crumbles Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) Salt, pepper and garlic powder

DIRECTIoNS Wash and trim asparagus and slice diagonally in one-inch pieces. In nonstick pan over medium heat, sautee sun-dried tomatoes with asparagus until warmed. Add EVOO to ensure enough oil to keep omelet from sticking.

While tomatoes are heating, beat eggs with fork in separate container. Add eggs to pan and season with salt, pepper and garlic powder.

Once omelet retains its shape, shake pan to free it from any stickage.

Once eggs are nearly set but still wet, sprinkle half of omelet with goat cheese. With spatula, gently fold omelet over to close.

Slide onto plate. Sprinkle with additional goat cheese as desired.

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By Lisa Renas

1 1/3 lb ground turkey 10 oz bag frozen spinach, defrosted ¼ lb feta cheese, crumbled ½ red onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 T butter 1 tsp steak seasoning (such as Montreal) ½ C parmesan cheese 1-2 tsp oregano, per taste Drizzle of olive oil Tzatziki sauce (optional)

DIRECTIoNS Sautee butter and garlic for a

minute; add onions. Cook until tender, then put in bowl to cool.

Add the oregano.

Squeeze all water from spinach, then pull it apart as you add it to the onion mix.

Add turkey, steak seasoning, feta cheese, parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix together.

Grill or bake burgers. Place burgers on whole wheat bun with lettuce, tomato, cucumber and tzatziki sauce (optional). Makes four burgers.

EASY OPAKAPAKA DINNER

By Norma Reynolds

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIoNS

Opakapaka

Season fish with salt and pepper,

½ C yogurt

then dip in cornmeal. Pan fry.

½ C sour cream

Cook Spanish rice according to

2 tsp lemon juice

package directions.

1 pkg Spanish rice 1 can black beans

Cook black beans with cilantro

½ tsp salt

and green onions. For sauce,

¼ tsp pepper

combine yogurt, sour cream, salt,

Cilantro

pepper and lemon juice. Layer

Green onions

cabbage on bottom, then rice,

Cabbage, shredded

beans, sauce and fish on top.

Makes three servings.

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New Hope o`a h u

weekends

times&locations

Honolulu

Saturday: 5 p.m. • 7 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. • 9 a.m. • 11 a.m.

Honolulu.enewhope.org

Hawaii Kai

Sunday: 8 a.m. • 10 a.m.

Hawaiikai.enewhope.org

Internet

Saturday: 5 p.m. • 7 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. • 9 a.m. • 11 a.m.

Internet.enewhope.org

Manoa

Sunday: 10 a.m.

Manoa.enewhope.org

Sand Island

Sunday: 9 a.m. • 11 a.m.

Sandisland.enewhope.org

South Shore

Sunday: 10 a.m.

Southshore.enewhope.org

West O`ahu

Sunday: 10:30 a.m.

Westoahu.enewhope.org

wednesdays

LEAD-Midweek Service

Wednesday: 7 p.m. LEAD Center www.enewhope.org

52 Life@itsBest JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2011