Final Class

It doesn't matter how long one has been in the ministry, we never stop learning! This has been an amazing class. Each week I have left saying to myself, "This has been the best one of all." That held true until the next guest came along.

I have learned many new and exciting ways of how ministry can be done. And I must say the creative ideas were amazing to me.

As I sat and listened to the 'take away' from each of the students I felt mixed emotions:
*Remembering what it was like when we were ready to leave Valley Forge Christian College and 'conquer the world for Jesus'
*Remembering how my heart was over joyed that my Heavenly Father had chosen me, a barefooted little girl from the hills of Kentucky, to work for His Kingdom.
*Remembering the hard lessons of ministry and how with each one I seemed to grow that much more in love with Jesus. Because with each hard place He revealed himself to me in a deeper and more tangible way.
*Remembering how each challenge made me want to push even harder toward God's call upon my life.

It's good to be reminded of where you have come from and have a fresh look at where you are in ministry.

More than anything I want to be in the center of God's will and make a difference in the lives of others. Confession....there are times I want this so bad that I neglect to see that it is actually happening. If anything I have been reminded during these past months to open my eyes and look around...take inventory and see what God has done.

I use to say, "I don't want to miss anything God is doing. I want to be right in the center of it." Well, I have learned that God is always 'doing' and yes I am there...but because of all the 'business of ministry and undue pressure I place upon myself...I don't always see it.

I have been reminded that it's alright to take time off and not feel guilty. And that I don't have to be so hard on myself and others, namely my husband.

I have been reminded that God has not called us all to use the exact same ministry idea, but we each must stay true to our own unique personalities, giftings and talents. Then and only then will be truly happy and contented in the ministry.

The greatest reminder of all was last night, with Gil Trusty. Gil said that when he came to VFCC he quickly excelled. His giftings took him all the way to the top of the class and allowed him to be the graduation speaker. He said, "I was the BIG man on campus. Leaders in the District called me 'the bright star in the horizon in Pentecost.' I might have been the BIG man on campus but my soul was so lean because I was doing everything in my gift not my relationship. I may have been to number one District speaker but my prayer life was gone and my soul was barren. Because I ignored the promptings of the Holy Spirit. I paid not attention to the red flag that kept going up. I sought success, not the face of God."

As I listened to this I was not only reminded of the importance of spending time in prayer, seeking God for directions and heading the promptings and leading of the Holy Spirit...I was once again reminded what can happen when we are leaders don't do what we know we must to survive in the ministry.

In the past few months I have been feeling the prompting of the Holy Spirit in my own life. Calling me to once again inter that place of prayer. However, it seems I make plans to do so and something always seems to come up to take that time. How thankful I am for the gentle reminder I received last night. ...For the Grace of God....

I have already made steps toward that directions and yesterday it came in the mail. I ordered the book and DVD of "When God's People Pray" by Jim Cynbala. What timing, that both would arrive on the very day Gil speaks in class reminding us and warning us of what can happen to those who go after success and minister out the their gifts and not relationship.

When I was at VFCC, years ago, Dr. Brown's wife (can't remember her name) taught a class for the wives of senior. She would always say, "Bloom where you are planted." and "The grass is not always greener on the other side." As I look back over our 28 years in ministry I can say a thousand times over these statement are so true.

Tom I want to thank you for allowing me to attend the class. Thank you for your words of encouragement, for listening to me and praying with and for me. I must say I have never had another man, let along a college professor tell me, in so many words, I was P.M.S-ing! LOL I find that to be the funnest thing ever. Yes, oh Yes God has a since of humor!

Many Blessing Be Upon You!
Cindy McKinley

Guest Speaker ~ Rev. Dan Miller

The Rock Recreation Center
Back Mountain Harvest Assembly of God

Trucksville, PA

Rev. Dan Miller grew up in a farming community located in central Pennsylvania. "I would say my home was like the TV show, 'Leave It To Beaver'. I had great parents who raised me in a Christian home. At a very young age, four or five years old God would appear to me in dreams and visions. When my parents gave their hearts to the Lord we began to travel the country to revival meetings. It never failed, during these meeting God would show the 'truth' about the men on the platform. He would say, "This one is real. You can watch and listen to him." or "This one is fake." or "His faith is weak." Many times I would be called out of a service and prophesied over."

The following are thought provoking quotes from Rev. Dan

* Never go against a man of God.
If you can't served under a man of God then you will never be able to lead others. Your position is one of helps along holding that man up before the Lord, the congregation, and the community. If you can't be subordinate you can't asks other to do so. Always serve your subordinate, even if they are wrong. Unless they are in sin!

* Don't try to meet everybody's needs.
"WhenI first came to Trucksville there was about fifteen to sixteen people. The very first thing I did was to ask some of them to leave. You're not going to keep everybody. Eight of the sixteen left the church. I explained my vision and I knew they were not going to fit into my vision so I introduced them to other churches in the area and remained friends with them to this day."

*Hang your hat on what your good at.
"Don't waste your time doing things you are not good at doing. Bring others along side you who can do the things you are not as gifted in."

* Pastor an area not a church.
"Get a vision for your area and what can happen within the community; not just for what can happen within the walls of your church. Everything is about the community not the Rock Center."

* Don't get mad when people leave and don't make a fuss when they come back.
"There are those who will come and go."

Questions:
* How do you get from 15 to 50?
"You get there by working yourself out of a job. Most pastors are insecure. If you have someone with a preacher's inch, Let them preach. If others come to you with an idea, Let them do it."

* How will you know if you are being successful in doing this?
"If you leave on a vacation and come back only to hear others say, "Oh, Pastor it was a disaster, while you were away." That is not good and you are not doing a good job." If, however, you leave and return to hear, "Pastor it was great! Everything went well. We didn't need you at all." Then you know you are successful. It is vital that you sing peoples praise. They must know how proud you are of them and that they are doing a great job."

People Follow Vision
* If you are asked to serve the community ~ Don't Pray About It ~ DO IT!
Scripture says that: 'The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.' John 1:5
* Don't choose what is safe. Be among the sinners, how else will we be able to lead them to become saints. And we should be able to be around the unsaved without being offended by their language. I suggest you find some unsaved friends.
* We live in a strong Catholic community. The sowing of seed was hard work, but we are now reaping a harvest.
* Don't ask from the community. God has not called us to be takers but givers. If you really want to bless those in the community, offer to pay more than their asking price.

Rev. Dan said they are now running six-hundred and fifty people. "I don't believe in 'member service' ~ soft seating, air conditioner and heating...Jesus said, It is the sick who need a doctor. Don't get me wrong our church is clean and well kept. But it's all about the community. About those who aren't us yet!"

Their Ministry Consist of:
*The Rock Recreation Center
The Center consist of: * 20,000 square foot State of the Art Facilities * Paramount Circuit Training Equipment *Free Weights *Cardio Room *College-sized Hardwood Basketball Court *Volleyball *Lounge *Locker Rooms *Upward Basketball Program *Camps *Leagues *Home School Phys. Ed. *Tournaments *Certified Personal Trainers *Elite Shoulder Rings *Climbing Ropes *...and Much More!

"At this time membership for the center is around 350 families, making it around 1,000 individuals. 10% may be church people but the rest are from the community. "

*The Hope Center
This center is a place for for those who are uninsured and underinsured to come for Free Medical Care, free Legal Advice, Free Vision care, including acuity, cataract, & glaucoma testing. Free Chiropractic evaluations and adjustments & Pastoral Care. "Keeping in mind, It is not about us; it's about the community and those who are not yet us."

*We purchase fire works for the community.
*Provide a Free pig roast.
*Leadership Workshops

Question:
*What drives you nuts on staff?

-Being lazy
-Being a cry babies
Example: Pastor's Appreciation Day...You are paid staff. You are to wait on the volunteer staff. It's should not be Pastors Appreciation Day but Pew Appreciation Day. God will take care of you, He sees when no one else does.
-Don't complain
You can be right ...but you can also be dead right which = a wrong!
-Leaving right after church
We should be the last people leaving the church. Again people don't have to be there. So, come early and stay late. When you are home, you are on call. When you are away rest, be with you family, relax. But when you are back give 100%
-Work hard...Really hard...but take time for your self as well.
-Give to those in need
I always choose to be naive. I choose to believe what people tell me and always error on the side of love and grace. No one has ever taken me...they have taken God but not me.

There is so much more I could say but I had better stop here. Truly I was blessed and yes even comforted by our guest.

Make UP ~ Class Project ~ Option #7 Church Planter Pre-Assessment

Ever since I heard that our District had changed the way they go about new church plants I have wondered how I would personally measure up to the 'test'. Since I needed to make up extra work for my class I decided to take the Church Planters Pre-Assessment.

The following is my score:

Profiles * Planer
Church Planting = 31%
Entrepreneurial Leadership = 68%
Ministry Experience = 55%
Relational Evangelism = 93%

Profiles * Median
Church Planting = 54%
Entrepreneurial Leadership = 73%
Ministry Experience = 60%
Relational Evangelism = 50%

Profiles * Benchmark
Church Planting = 75%
Entrepreneurial Leadership = 75%
Ministry Experience = 75%
Relational Evangelism = 70%

After giving some thought to the test and looking back over my answers I find it somewhat disturbing that I have been in ministry for going on thirty years now and my Ministry Experiences sees to be as low as it is. Maybe I am just not understanding it all.

One thing for sure I want to be and do the best I can for the Kingdom of God!!!!

I also realize the % is high for Relational Evangelism and I am wondering if that is because I have included the entire 30 years of ministry which covers the time we were Children's Evangelist for 8 years.

Class Project ~ Coaching 503

Coaching 503
Change, Transition, and Transformation

Romans 12:1-2 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as living and hold sacrifices, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.

Coaching 503 is designed to help, the would be, coach to be able to do the following:
∙ Understand the dynamics of change, transition and transformation
∙ Use coaching skills and the coaching process to help people navigate through the three
∙ And increase effectiveness as a catalyst for transformation

When it comes to change most people are quick to say, “I don’t like it!” However, if we want to move from one place to another change must take place. In looking at the three aspects of Coaching 503 one must first define and understand the meaning of each.

Change is: external, temporary, self initiated, doing, relationship with others & God

Change always starts in the mind. If we always stay where we stop offering ourselves as an act of worship to God. If one truly wants to be transformed they must first recognize their need for others especially God. To often those longing for changes refuse the cocoon experience, for it is within the cocoon that transformation comes. Unfortunately, if change does not come we will die either physically, spiritually or both.

Transition is: internal, resisted, frustrating, confusing, fearful, painful, a mind shift

In this step of the journey to transformation we become a living sacrifice. In the Old Testament when a sacrifice was given salt placed on it. A dead sacrifice feels no pain. However, if you add salt to the wound of a living sacrifice there will great pain and all that comes with it. Not only is this a painful process it leaves the PBC (person being coached) with feeling of total vulnerability which only adds to the pain. As coaches we must let them know it’s ok to have these feeling and to feel the way they do.

M. Scott Peck says, “The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur when we are deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled. For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort, that we are likely to step out of our ruts and start searching for different ways or truer answers.”

Transformation is: internal, permanent, God initiated, being, new relationships

It is vital that we as coaches understand that transformation is a process and we are to coach people through that process. For that to happen we must first learn we can not tell they what they need to do. Instead we must learn to ask the right questions that will enable them to come up with their own process. (example: Job’s friends vs. God’s response). In doing so we will help the PBC move from surviving to thriving (Philippians 1:9-11; Psalm 63:3-4) which will lead them from bondage to freedom (Galatians 5:1, 13; 2 Corinthians 3:17). Freedom, that’s a great place to
be!

A good coach will be able to help people moved into that transformation place, by
helping the PBC:

∙ Expand their horizon to new possibilities.
∙ Elicit powerful new commitments.
∙ Transform their point of view about themselves.
∙ Foster new ways of being, skills, and practices.
∙ Move past places where they are stuck.
∙ Coaching them to effective action.

Although a business can undergo changes within it structure, changes that will cause the business to expand and grow to new levels, we can’t be so quick to use the work transformation in this setting. For true transformation can only come about once an individual has accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. True transformation happens from the inside out. The old has gone and the new has come. Some individuals have even gone as far as to change their name, all because they have found a new identity in Christ Jesus.

I have personally experienced this type of transformation in my own life I have had the privilege of helping others in their journey as well. It is my desire to see our church fulled with individuals who can sing, “Look What The Lord Has Done” not because they can read the words off the wall, but because they have experienced this transforming power for themselves. I believe as I learn to apply these coaching skills that desire will soon become a reality.

It is so my desire to become a coach that will be able to help people through the process of becoming transformed.

Since taking Coaching 510 and 503 I have begun moving in that direction in two ways:

1. I am involved with the "AG Deepen the Learning Coaching Calls. These calls take place twice a month. To date I have missed only one call, due to the fact that I attended Chapel at Valley Forge Christian College.

2. I now have a Life Coach, Vicki Farina, who has taught me much in our time together.

I praise God for the godly men and women He continues to place in my life. His loves for me is beyond my understanding at time. Truly I Am Blessed!

Ellen DiTrolio

Hold On To Your Dreams

Ellen DiTrolio

On April 9, 2011 I attended a Luncheon at Valley Forge Christian College. This luncheon was provided by the young women’s group called “Becoming”

Ellen DiTrolio along with her husband Roco are presently serving Missionary in Residence at Valley Forge Christian College. They came in September of 2010 and this September they will be returning to Argentina once again.

After lunch Ellen shared with those in attendance.

Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

‘Told On To Your Dreams’

She accepted Jesus when she was fifteen years of age. After graduating high school she came to Valley Forge Christian College and graduated with a three year diploma in missions. She met her husband Roco at Valley Forge and they dated for four year. However, although she knew God had called her to missions it was sometime later that God placed the same call upon the heart of her husband.”

Ellen said, “Twenty-eight years ago I had a dream. I dreamed of getting a degree one day. Although I received a three year diploma I still didn’t have a degree. Since we have been on campus this past year I have taken advantage of this opportunity and took the classes I needed to bring my dream to pass. And after twenty-eight years I will get to wear my cap and gown on May 6.” Needless to say she was quite excited about this major accomplishment. “A dream has come to pass, she said, and now I have a new dream. I want to a degree in Psychology. My husband and I are already taking classes that will help us help pastors in Argentina. When you fulfill a dream, get another one.”

If God has placed a dream in your heart there are some things you must do for that dream to come to pass.

1. Don’t give up on your dream.
2. Don’t let others talk you out of your dream.
3. Live your own dream.
4. Don’t live someone else's dream.

“I am a Martha who has been called to Argentina. I do not do well speaking in front of large groups of people. My ministry is in small clusters, one on one. I love working in the kitchen. Even though I am not like my husband, who is running every where, speaking here and there. I have gifts he does not have. When your ministry is one on one you really get to know a person. You know the struggles they face day after day. You know about their personal lives.” She went on to say, “When my husband and I are along I will say, ‘honey we really need to pray for (so and so) they have this going on in their life right now.’ He will ask me, “How did you know that?” “So, ladies don’t feel if you are a Martha, a behind the scenes person; a one on one person, that your ministry is not important. It is very important!”

If you want that dream to come to pass you must:
1. Plan for it. If you don’t plan how can it happen?
2. Wright down your plan to make it happen.

Proverbs 4:20-27 My son (daughter), pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words...for they are life to those who find them... guard your heart...look straight ahead...fix your gaze...do not turn to the right or the left...Above all else, guard your heart

“Jeremiah 29:11 speaks of Prosperity, Hope and Future. The enemy will do all he can to stop you .”

James 1:14 says, “but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed.”

“Let’s face it,” Ellen said, “no one says today that I will take the first step to ruin my life. No, it happens with tiny steps at a time.”

Ellen gave this example:

Men don’t like to take directions. “We were traveling and I told my husband, ‘This is the exit we need to take.’ Instead to listening to my directions he continued on and said, “We’ll just pick up the next one.” Only the next one was fourteen and a half miles further down the road. Taking the right exit was a difference of 2 miles vs. 29 miles. Ladies, why not stay on the right path to start with!”

She continued, “If we are no different than others then we have nothing to give. Swearing, tattoos, smoking, drinking, etc....don’t be like everybody else. You have a divine plan to fulfill. Ask God to reveal your weak spot and then choose. When you find yourself standing at the cross road, choose. Choose in the light of eternity. Don’t take this lightly because small choices can change your life. If we are not careful to choose the right way, we will continue to sin in disobedience.”

Two easy steps can we take to prevent this.
1. Put a guard at the weak spot.
2. Get an accountability partner. If you try to guard on your own, you will loose.

Ephesians 6:12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Satan will do all he can to exploit our weak spots.

Psalms 62:6 Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.

“God gave you a dream; be faithful, be women of integrity, be different than everybody else.”

In her closing statements she encouraged with ladies with the following:

* Don’t stop asking God for new dreams.
* Don’t give up even if no one else believes in your dream.
- Not even if things don’t start out well...keep working toward it.
- Not even if the journey is full of surprises and feels like a roller coaster ride.

Keep on dreaming!

Even if it takes a long time coming to pass. They may not come about in your timing. But they will come to pass in God’s timing.

Don’t let the enemy trick you into thinking it will never happen.

Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

We then closed our time in praying for Ellen.

Summery of Church Rate

Ash Wednesday Service
March 19, 2011

My husband and I serve on the Coventry/Warwick Ministerium. This review is from Ash Wednesday Service which was held on Wednesday, March 19, 20011.

Being raised in the Assemblies of God I truly knew nothing about Ash Wednesday. So, I will give a back ground before giving my review.

What is Ash Wednesday? Ash Wednesday is the day Lent begins and it occurs forty days before Good Friday. During which time people will receive ashes from burnt palm fronds, which have been saved form the previous year’s Palm Sunday. The ashes are placed on the receivers
forehead in the symbol of a cross.

This year’s theme for Ash Wednesday is, “At the Foot of the Cross.” The messages are designed to consider Jesus from the viewpoint of various person who were there: 1) Adam the first man, Jesus the second Adam; 2) *Mary, Jesus’ Mother (I preached this Wed. and my title: Mothers, We Are Never Off The Delivery Table.); 3) Mary Magdalene; 4) The Beloved Disciple, John 5) the Centurion; 5) the Crowd.

The following is a layout of the evening’s service: (Italicized is my comments)

PRELUDE “When It’s All Been Said and Done”
A slide show presentation was given while this song played in the back ground.

Please take this time to silently pray for — God to bless this worship
service, that God would be glorified in it, that people would be changed
by it, and anything else on your heart.

I wonder how many were really praying...I confess, I wasn't since I was wondering if others were.

GREETING (Book of Worship # 322)
Leader: The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
All: And also with you.
Leader: Bless the Lord who forgives all our sins.
All: God’ mercy endures forever.

*OPENING PRAYER “Ash Wednesday” (Hymnal #353)
O God, Maker of everything and judge of all that you have made, from the dust of the earth you have formed us and from the dust of death you would raise us up.

By the redemptive power of the cross, create in us clean hearts and put within us a new spirit, that we may repent of our sins and lead lives worthy of your calling; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

* OPENING HYMN #357 “Just As I Am, Without One Plea”
My mind went to the close of every Billie Graham crusade. I must say it sounded lovely in that old church, with it’s wooden pews and hard wood floor that made music itself as people walked upon it.

SCRIPTURE LESSON 1 Corinthians 15:21-26 (N.T. Page 176)

SCRIPTURE LESSON Genesis 3:8-19 (O.T. Page 3)

SERMON “The Dust of Adam” (We Are The Children of Adam)

Notes from the message:

What is our roll in sending Jesus to the cross? We’ve come here tonight to receive a cross of ashes on our forehead — is that done so others can see? Is it all a show? Jesus said some things should be done in secret.

It almost seemed as though the minister was starting his message putting down Ash Wednesday. I must say, even though we as A/G do not practice this ritual I was surprised that he seemed to be coming down so hard on it. However, as he continued I realized that he was saying, we shouldn’t be doing this for a show but it should be done with a heart of repentance, prayer, fasting and self denial.

His message was divided into two parts:
1) In Adam we all die.
2) In Christ we all live.

His message was somewhat difficult to follow. Here are some of the things I was able to get from it.

We are all guilty, disobedient, sinners. We try not to sin but fall into it anyway. We are all going to die according to the Gospel of Adam. But in Christ Jesus we all are made alive. Jesus has made us His through forgiveness. Everything has been promised for us we will get there. The way it was suppose to be. Death becomes the greatest adventure in this life.

Ash Wednesday with Adam is a funeral. But with Christ it is a celebration. Tonight we have come to mourn. To be reminded of how much of the old Adam we have. We must confess, repent and over come!

I’m not sure what I felt after his message was over. As I sat in the old wooden pew I remember taking a deep breath and saying, “Oh, thank you Jesus for all you have done for me.”

Next in the ‘Order of Service’:

GOSPEL LESSON Matthew 6:1-6 ~ 16-21

ANTHEM “When I Survey The Wondrous Cross” Senior Choir

INVITATION TO THE OBSERVANCE OF LENTEN DISCIPLINE
After the song was over everyone sat quietly as the minister came off the platform. It seemed that the service was over. Until the minister began to read the following:

The early Christians observed with great devotion the days of our Lord's passion and resurrection, and it became the custom of the Church that before the Easter celebration there should be a forty-day season of spiritual preparation. During this season converts to the faith were prepared for Holy Baptism.

It was also a time when persons who had committed serious sins and had separated themselves from the community of faith were reconciled by penitence and forgiveness, and restored to participation in the life of the Church.

In this way the whole congregation was reminded of the mercy and forgiveness proclaimed in the gospel of Jesus Christ and the need we all have to renew our faith.

I invite you, therefore, in the name of the Church, to observe a holy Lent:
by self-examination and repentance;
by prayer, fasting, and self-denial;
and by reading and meditating on God's
Holy Word.

THANKSGIVING OVER THE ASHES
A prayer was given over the small bowl of ashes. And complete silence once again fell upon the congregation.

IMPOSITION OF ASHES
All of a sudden a couple of people a few rows up from us rose from their seat. At first I thought they were leaving.

The old wooden pew and floor began to creek loudly as they stood. When they began to walk the floor had it’s own unique sound. No one could ‘sneak’ out of a service in this church as the floor would give them away the moment they stood to their feet.

In a few moments I began to realize they were not leaving but were headed to the back of the church where they turned to head down the other aisle and toward the front of the church. It was as though they were waiting for someone to be the first person. Once the first group made their move it was as though the rest began playing ‘follow the leader’. For the next twenty minutes we sat as one by one they left their seat to have ashes placed upon their forehead.

Everyone was so solemn and they slowly made their way around the sanctuary and back to their set. I couldn’t help but wonder what was going through their minds.

CONFESSION AND PARDON
During this time a prayer was prayed; confession sins and asking God to pardon us once again as we remember all Jesus did for us by going to the cross.

Psalm 51:1-17 Hymnal #785

WORDS OF ASSURANCE

OFFERING

OFFERTORY “Create in Me A Clean Heart” Senior Choir

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
After the offertory A prayer was read as the offering was lifted to heaven.

THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven hallowed by thy name.
Thy Kingdom com, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,, and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.

*CLOSING HYMN #354 “I Surrender All”

*BENEDICTION

POSTLUDE “Benedictus”

*Please rise, if able

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

We have build great friendships through the Ministerium. Many are truly born again. Each year as I set in services like these I am once again reminded of how thankful I am for Pentecost and the reality of know I can have a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. That I am able to come before Him any time and pour my heart out to Him with out having to look for the right prayer from a book.

I pray for the churches in our area and their pastors.

Video Interview with Mr. Richard Curtis

I have so enjoyed every interview we have had in the class. This past Tuesday the video interview with Rowan Atkinson truly ministered to me as well.

Rowan Atkinson is a comedy writer. One of his success is the Mr. Bean clips. He says: “Comedy brings relief to people.”

He talked about how traveling with his parents, as a young boy, opened his eyes to severe poverty in other countries. When asked what from the Bible inspired him to do what he does. He replied by saying, “The Sermon On The Amount is what I live by. It is powerful.”

The following are notes I made through out the interview:

Mr. Atkinson: Give people a change to fix things themselves.

When leading others...”Everybody need to know what you are trying to achieve. They need to know you are all going in the same direction. Don’t judge people of their past.”

Host: How do you resolve conflict?

Mr. Atkins: I just step back and evaluate the situation. The key is to keep your cool and do your home work.

Just because things go wrong it doesn’t always mean it is a disaster. Don’t panic and don’t get emotional. Just because something is a failure doesn’t mean it will not bring success down the road.

Host: Some may say that you can do anything you want with all the money you have. However, churches don’t have that kind of money and it’s hard to do things.

Mr. Atkinson: Make do with what you’ve got. Nobody ever thinks they have enough money to do what they want.

Just because we don’t have the money to do the BIG things doesn’t mean can’t we can’t do nothing!

People all have a name, a story, a back ground and a future. They are looking for an opportunity to do things that help others.

If I pray for people at night I must be willing to do something for them the next day.

In the past several years Mr. Atkinson has worked hard raising money to feed the poor in Africa and India. His campaign has raised thousands maybe millions of dollars to feed many.

The United Kingdom now has what is called, ‘Red Nose Day’. A day set aside for raising money for Africa. On this day every one purchases a red nose which cost only a pound, which in US currency is around $2. Along with wearing their red nose many business and individuals do other fun things throughout the day to raise money.

Host: What advice would you give the church?

Mr. Atkinson: People shouldn’t die when I have so much to give.

There can’t be to much the church can do. If we want to hold the enthusiasm, the excitement of those in the church we have to keep reaching out and doing for others.

Host: Have you thought of others things you could do?

Mr. Atkinson: I only do one thing well. But I’ll ruthlessly do that one thing to rectify the injustice.

I found it amazing that Mr Atkinson is doing so much to make a difference in the world, yet he has not figured out his faith. I pray for this man that through all he is doing that he will have a revelation of Jesus that will truly change his personal life for all eternity.

Interview With Pastor Steve DeFrain

Steve grew up on a pastor’s home in Boyertown, PA.

“Growing up in the church didn’t do me any favors, he said. Let’s face it church people are mean, they are complainers and they cause problems. They fight music and who to dress and a lot more...It wasn’t until I got away from the church that I got saved.”

At the age of eighteen Steve felt the call into ministry at a youth convention. However, when he went to South West Bible College, in Texas he didn’t go to be in ministry.

“I only attend South West because my parents said they would pay for it, he said. I didn’t take college seriously until my senior year. It wasn’t until the age of twenty-one that I knew I was suppose to be in ministry so I got really involved in a church for the first time.”

“I started by being the janitor, cleaning toilets and felt this is not ministry! From being janitor I began to work with the children and Jr. High kids, I love it, I got to play games and hang out at Chuck E. Cheese. I loved ministry. I just didn’t like church.”

“Like I said, I love ministry but didn’t like church. The church I worked in couldn’t decide if I should wear a tie or not on Sunday mornings. So I started attending a different church on Saturday nights, called Life Church.”

Question: What was it life going to Life Church?

Answer: It was excellent music, message, kids church, everything was planned out. People wanted to be at church. The first message I heard there was titled ‘Dangerous Church’. Saturday nights I would get fired up and Sunday morning would go back to the traditional church. It was very frustrating. Sometimes it felt as though I was just treading water. But I still worked hard until I got an offer somewhere else.”

His dad, who pasotrs Morning Star Fellowship in Bechtelsville, PA wanted to start a Saturday night service for college age. However it did not go well as there were no college age people. “It was a depressing time, Steve said.”

Question: How did it change?

Answer: I was ready to move back to Oklahoma when my dad received a call from a Mennonite church called him to buy their building. It ended up that the congregation gave us the building and seven acres of land. After making some changes to the building we opened Journey Church.

Question: Did any of the Mennonites stay at the church?

Answer: There are a couple that come and they are supportive and positive.

Two months after they were in their new building Donnie gets saved.

Donnie ~ “I was the town trunk. A dead beat dad. I was into porn and drugs. I went around bragging how I left my wife and was living with a girl.

It wasn’t until I went on vacation to North Carolina that God began to get a hold of my heart and I was raised Catholic and wasn’t sure what was happening to me. On the drive home I cried out to God and He saved me on the highway. Once back in PA I went to recovery but from day one I didn’t struggle. Shortly after I was invited to Journey church, the first message I heard was ‘Tatoos and Sex’. From that day on I went after Christ. I knew God hated divorce so I left the girl I was living with and went back to my wife, who hated me. I got on my hand and knees and told her what God had done for me. God restored our marriage and on February 14 I moved her into my home, six months later she gave her heart to Jesus.”

Donnie now serves as the Campus Pastor in Phoenixville. He sees his ministry as doing everything possible to make it easy for Steve. “I submit to his authority. I have his back. When he comes in to preach all he needs to do is pick up the mike and preach the Word.

Question: How long did it take you to out grow the one hundred fifty in attendance?

Answer: Well we have parking for 130. We were running between 130-150 but when we went to two services we then went to 250. The key to growth was simple, I did a sermon series on ‘Jesus’. We also brought in a worship pastor, who just moved to the area.

Steve made a powerful statement, “There is always one more to get saved. Ninety-nine doesn’t impress me. We exist for those who are not yet here.”

Relating to services:
* Christmas Eve Service in Phoenixville - we tried the traditional candle light service and quickly realized that was not for us. Our second Christmas Eve Service rocked. We even had santa playing the organ.
* Easter - he held two services.
* We are now looking at an online campus.

Dealing with older pastors. “Never Judge A Book By It’s Cover”

* Jack Mason - My dad told me to give him a call. Which I did. He said he wanted to meet with me. I went to that meeting things that he was going to put down what we planned to do. Instead he blessed me, prayed with me and gave us $31,800 and the first month’s rent for the Phoenixville site.

“I want to be like Pastor Mason when I grow up.”

When asked what their prayer is:
Steve answered, “That I would stay out of the way.”
Donnie answered, “There are 18,900 people in Phoenixville, my prayer is to reach them all.”

Intervies With A Community Leader

Interview With Police Chief Robert Schurr

*Note: All quotes are from Chief Schurr with the exception of those that are italicized. These quotes are my own.

Police Chief Robert Schurr
Has served our community for the past 21 years. He is a husband and father of two boys who are very involved in sports. Chief Schurr is also a part time professor at Alvernia College. He is a certified referee for Lacrosse and he coaches little league for his youngest son along with coaching other sports events with his sons. Family if very important to Chief Schurr.

1. What do you think is the greatest thing about our community?

Answer: I think the greatest thing about our community is the willingness that people have to help others in the time of need. The 2006 flood was a prime example of what can happen when a community comes together. People of all ages and all walks of life gave of their time and finances toward the clean up.

* What part do you see volunteers making in our community?

Volunteers play a vital part in our community, whether it is through working through ‘Parks and Recreation’ or giving to the food pantry, we all can make a difference.

2. What do you feel is the greatest challenge in our community?

Answer: The greatest challenge we face as a police department is the funds. With the economy going the way it is, and with no relief in sight, it is challenging because there is more that needs to be done on a lot less.

The challenge comes when we have to provide the same amount of service no matter what our funding may be. Because as the economy goes now crime goes up.

What areas of crime do you predict will increase the most if the economy continues down this same path?

Answer: As more and more families find themselves without a job, they could possibility be facing the threat and even reality of having their cars repossessed and even foreclosure on their homes.

A lot of the times, even the stress of the possibility of these things happening, we will begin to see a rise in domestic violence. And that opens up a vast of other problems.

We are already seeing this happen as some homeless people have set up tents just off High street on the border of Pottstown and North Coventry.

What do you think the answer is to helping those who are facing foreclosure on their homes?

Answer: I’m not sure what the answer is to that. As a police department there is very little we can do. We can direct them to county resources and services. Through these government agencies they can received counseling...I’m not sure what the answer is...I don’t want to be doom and gloom but I don’t see it getting better anytime soon.

Have you heard that 1 our of 5 children in America go hungry?

Answer: No, I have not heard that. ~ “My husband just heard that on the news.”

What is the average income and population of North Coventry?

Answer: In the past 21 years growth in our community has been under control compared to the areas around us. At this point the average income is somewhere between $50-$60 dollars a year. With a population of around 8,000. However, we are beginning to see an increase in the past few years and with them an whole new set of challenges arise.

What other challenges do you for see as the population continues to increase?

Answer: Crime will increase. Then there’s the traffic and with that comes speeding, road repairs. Then there’s the challenge with water drainage and road crews trying to keep up with it all.

3. What is one thing that would make family life better in our community?

Answer: We see a lot of building but it would be nice if we could provide more things for families to do together.

How can you see this happening?

Answer: Well ‘Parks and Recreation’ has been trying to get people out to the new park.

It would really be nice if we could have an outside movie for the community.

“You aren’t going to believe this...we planned this at the church two different times. The first time we advertised Pottstown’s largest bowl of popcorn...the night of the movie we have a sever thunder storm with lightening and the work. So, a couple of years later we planned another movie night and the exact same thing happened again.” LOL Chief Schurr said, “Oh No!” My response, “Maybe we need to try this again!” I believe we will!!!

4. Is there anything you see happening in the future that you are concerned about?

Answer: I look at what is going on in Iraq with the war at and all and I am aware that there are those who could be planning to bring harm to North Coventry. As I look at Rt. 100 being a major highway in PA; North Coventry boarders two major counties. We also have the power plant, however, that doesn’t concern me as much as having the mall and the schools. They are more of a concern for me.

Can you tell me what the security is like in the schools?

Answer: Security in the school has increased a lot over the past few years. At this point you can not just walk into a school in North Coventry. The buildings are kept locked at all time. Once a door is opened for a visitor they must report to the office where they will talk through a protective glass and from there will be issued a badge to be in the building.

Owen J. Roberts High School has two officers that carry firearms. Along with that our department does random patrols. It has been proven that having just having a presence it a great deterrence in keeping order.

What do you think the percentage is of those who would be qualified to assist in the event of a tragedy in our community?

Answer: That would be hard to say. There may be people we are not aware of. As I think about the fire company - there are 50-60 members. But then it would depend upon the size of the emergency. If the emergency is small the more qualified people we would have. If the emergency is on a larger scale the number qualified would be a lot less. Out of the 8,000 residence I would assume maybe ten percent of our community would be qualified to assist in a tragedy.

“Ten years ago we had a group scheduled to come to the church to offer training for such happenings. Then September 11 hit and it was canceled. With all that was going on in our world at that time this slipped pass us and never happened.”

Do you feel that offering training would be beneficial for those in our community?

Answer: Yes

Who would you suggest we contact for such training?

Answer: Red Cross. West Mont Christian School here in North Coventry is a Certified Red Cross Shelter. Again working through the school systems is a good way to go.

5. What is a new affordable service that would really help our community?

Answer: The first thing that comes to my mind is the need for two ATV four wheelers. With the purchase of the new park and the push for getting the community back to the nature, many have begun to walk the trails. We also open the park for a short time each year for dear hunter, to help keep the population down. My concern is, if something were to happen while people are on the trail we have no way of getting to them. We would also use the four wheelers to patrol all
the open space.

What is the cost for two ATVs?

Answer: We can get two four wheelers, loaded with the needed equipment and a wagon for 20 to 25 thousand dollars.

Has money been placed in the budget for these vehicles?

Answer: No! With the economy and staffing the department some feel those are more of a wish rather than a need.

What other services do you think would be helpful for the community?

Answer: I think inviting the community to an open forum to express their concerns would be a great place to start.

Where do you see something like this taking place?

Answer: The schools is a good place because it is the easiest and most effective way to advertise any event.

These could be held as to two day seminar, one evening class or one class on early Saturday morning...with each class lasting one to two hours.

What topics would you like to see covered?

Answer: There is always a need for the following: Child Seat Safety; Drug and Alcohol Use among teenagers; Internet Safety; Bring in someone to talk to teens about suicide.

“We at Calvary have worked with your department in the past, hosting Internet safety classes to educate parents on how to protect their children. Even with all the promotional avenues we used there were only a handful in attendance.”

Answer: I remember that. I believe we all face the challenge of getting others to see the importance of being educated in these area. Let’s face it everyone knows a child needs to be in a car seat however, they don’t always know there is a proper way to make sure the seat is secure properly.

6. What is a service that really needs to be improved?

Answer: The biggest need I see at this point and time is the need for mental health services. We receive calls all the time from those who are challenged in this area. Those who think someone is out to kill them. They see things and hear voices.

We have one person that calls 911 at least ten times a month. Because it is a 911 call we and the fire company must respond.

How do you handle these calls?

Answer: It’s challenging because there is really nothing we can do. We call the mental health services and are told if the person is not harming themselves or not a harm to others there is noting they can do. It’s sad to think that something really bad has to happen before anything can be done to help these people. If there was some way to provide early identification, early intervention it would same them a lot of trouble later in life.

7. Are you hiring?

Answer: We are not hiring at this time. At this time we have a total of fourteen officers; twelve men and two women. If I could I would hire tomorrow. However, right now we are facing budget cuts and threats of lay offs.

~ ~ ~

I thoroughly enjoyed this interview and I am looking forward to what is in store for us and our community. May God help us to make an even great impact!

Daniel R. Schafer

Reverend Schafer, has served in ministry for the past forty-sever years.
He has been married for forth-six of those years and has two grown children and five grandchildren. at the present time he serves as Senior Pastor at Calvary Assembly of God in Hightstown, New Jersey. Along with being Senior Pastor he also is a Chaplain for the Assemblies of God and serves as Chaplain for three police departments, two fire stations, EMT drivers, and Nas Car drivers.

Although his church is small in number that hasn’t stopped them from making an impact in the Kingdom of God. Some special events they do every year are:

Racer’s Sunday - The day starts with a free breakfast for race car drivers and their families. Following by a car show in the church parking lot. Trophies are given out for different things. They close the day by praying over the drivers and their cars.

He has also served as Chaplain for the Dover Race Track. Prayed to start Daytona 500, and is not the Chaplain for the race track in New Jersey where he lives. "My goal, he said, is to mention the name of Jesus."

Blessing of the Bikes - Bikers come from all over to received prayer at the beginning of the season. "If it rains they come in their cars. Instead of praying over the bikes we pray over their keys. Of course there is food. You always feed people. He has been made an honorary member of the Blue Knights (a motor cycle biking club).

Through out his many years of being a Chaplain he has experienced many tragedies: plane crashes, car accidents, shooting, suicides, and even September 11, 2001 --- where he was called to New York City by the Port Authority to mobilize Chaplains at various locations throughout the city.

He talked about the importance of helping the police officers and others emergence workers deal with the stress of what they see. "If they don't talk about it they stuff it and eventually it will come out. And when it does it will be in the form of great anger. "I also have to do the same, and I have a couple of people I go to just to talk."

Three things that ministered to me the most:

1. The Ministry of Presence
* We can’t have an answer for everything.
* For when tragedy strikes we don’t always have to say something. Just your presence speaks volumes.
* Ministry of people is more valuable.
* People never get back to normal they only find a new normal.
* People will forget your words, but never your presence.
* You don’t know people till you touch them.
* People want to feel worth.

When asked, “What do you say at a funeral?” He replied, “This is the greatest opportunity to minister. The best thing to say is, 'He/She is in the Lord's hands.' You always want to give them hope."

2. Three Basic Truths for Ministry:

* Be A Man/Woman Of Truth - John 7:17-18 Anyone who chooses to do the will of God will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own. Whoever speaks on their own does so to gain personal glory, but he who speaks the glory of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him.

* Trusting The Lord To Open Doors - Proverbs 18:16 A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.

* Promotion - Psalms 75:6-7 - No one from the east or the west or from the desert can exalt themselves. It is God who judges: He brings one down, He exalts another.

3. Just because someone says they are fine, doesn’t mean they are really fine.

Frustrated
Insecure
Neurotic
Explosive

I thoroughly enjoyed this class!

New Believers Interview

Tanya is you young mother who started coming to church a little over a year ago and soon after gave her heart to the Lord.

1. Tell me about your journey to faith in Christ.

Answer: My journey to faith in Christ began when I was baptized as an infant. Then as a young child I attended Sunday School and Bible School. My family did belong to a church, however we did not go regularly. At the age of 13 I went through Catechetical Class. After that I really did not have much to do with the church or the Lord. After becoming a mother I often thought about sending my children to Sunday School, but did not want to drive a half hour to my church. From 2007-2008 I worked in a church nursery in which I was able to hear the sermon and take my children to Sunday School. I believe this was the beginning of reacquainting myself with the Lord. I happened upon Calvary Christian Center in August of 2009 at their Back to School Kick Off. While there I ran into an old friend from school and her husband who kept asking me about my son joining Royal Rangers. We finally came to Royal Rangers and Impact in December 2009 and also began attending Sunday School and church regularly. I now also teach the Rainbows and Daisies in the Impact Girls Club. I could not have made a better choice than reacquainting myself and my children with the Lord. I continue to grow in faith through teaching, reading, attending Sunday School and Bible study group and through the guidance of my pastors, church family and friends.

2. What helped you the most to step over the line and make the commitment?

Answer: I really wanted to get involved with a church for my children. But the more I thought about it I needed my own refreshers and learning so that I could help my children learn and understand. We were warmly welcomed into the church family. Hearing testimonies and receiving guidance from those around me also helped me to make the commitment.

3. What has been the best part of becoming a Christ follower for you?

Answer: The best part in becoming a Christ follower for me is all the knowledge I have gained. There is so much that I was unaware of and did not remember from attending Sunday School as a child. And hearing all the testimonies makes me believe in the Lord that much more. Hopefully some day I will have my own testimony to share.

4. What has been the most challenging part of following Christ?

Answer: There are 2 major things I find challenging. One is being able to feel/hear the Lord. I hear people's testimonies and how they felt the Lord's presence or listened to what He told them and wonder why I don't feel Him or hear Him. Sometimes I think it's because I am too busy to take the time to notice and that I should slow down. The other thing I find challenging is tithing. I know that I should give 10%...but I find this hard to do. Considering my circumstances of being a single parent of 2 children and providing for my family is what makes it hard for me...because I don't want to fall short. I do know in both of these instances I need to slow down and have more faith. and I know that in due time I will get t here. But as everyone, I want that instant gratification...and that's not how it happens.

5. What do you think is helping you grow the most in your faith?

Answer: What I believe is helping me to grow the most in my faith is all that I am learning/relearning about the Lord and all He did. Also my friends and family in the church...they help me in so many ways. They really are a blessing to me.

6. What advice do you have for me in helping others like you to grow in their
faith?

Answer: My advice to you Cindy is to keep doing what you are doing! I have learned so much from you . You are a loving and caring person. You are also a wonderful inspiration and teacher as well as a great friend!


After our interview I shared the following with Tanya:

You have blessed me so much by sharing your personal thoughts. I have seen your love for God increase and that blesses His heart more than you may know. Hearing your answers, it is easy to tell how much you long to have a deeper relationship with Jesus. Honey, He is a friend that will stick closer to you than a brother. He will never leave you, never forsake you! He is your provider and as far as tithing I can only encourage you to TRY Him! He said, Try Me as see if I don't throw open the windows of heaven and pour out a blessing, so much that you won't be able to contain it...He is not a liar! You can trust Him with your very life! And for your children.
Tanya, I want you to know I am here for you. Anytime you have questions or need to talk all you have to do is send me a message, give me a call, grab me at church...I am so proud of you!!!! As you teach the Rainbows you are going to learn so much more about the Lord. As for a your own Testimony ... you already have one! When you gave your heart to Jesus your soul came to life. You were brought from death to life, from darkness into the Light, You became a daughter of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords; your name was written in the Lambs Book of Live and God is preparing a place for you in Heaven!! Your testimonies will keep growing as you grow. As you continue to learn how to apply God's Word and listen for His voice you will hear Him speaking to you. I'm sure you already do and just don't realize it yet. I am sooo proud of You!!

Tom Rees

Off and on through out the entire day I would wonder who this weeks guest would be. As I entered the building at 5:50pm there was a woman going up the steps in front of me, and I thought, “Wonder if she’s our guest?” Once she reached the top of the stairs she turned to the left and headed in the opposite direction. Even after class started I still wondered who it could be as I didn’t see a new person in the room. Needless to say I was quite impressed as Professor Reese informed the class that he was the one to be interviewed. “I bring guest in, he said, and they I ask the hard questions. It’s only fare that you have the opportunity to ask me hard
questions as well, so tonight you get to interview me. I am the guest speaker for the evening.”

The interview started with a student asking about his journey growing up. Professor Rees began by telling how his mother came here from Italy at a young age and in time met and married his dad who was a dancer on American Band Stand. He talked about what life was like having three different fathers and the tragedy that his family faced with each one. At a young age he looked out for his mother as she suffered with thoughts of suicide upon learning that husband number three had three families in different places. “I would sleep, on the floor, at the foot of my mother’s so she wouldn’t do anything during the night.” Professor Rees said.

After his mom experienced salvation through Jesus Christ her heart and life were changed. She Felt God! And now she wanted her son to feel the same thing.

“Tell us about your salvation and ministry.” came from another student.

“At the age of sixteen, my mom would called me into the house to watch Billie Graham crusade on tv. At the end of the message I prayed the sinner’s prayer. My mom’s big thing was always, ‘Did you feel anything?’”

Professor Rees came to his own personal experience after read two tracks he had picked up for his mother from a record store. “I put them in my pocket thinking I would get some for my mother. I forgot about them until one day as I was on the train headed for school, I took them out and began to read. It was then I realized that I was a sinner and needed God. I prayed and gave my heart to Jesus. When I told me my mom she said, ‘Did you feel anything?’ Because of what I read from one of the tracts I was able to tell her, ‘It’s not about feeling. It’s about Faith.”

He attended a Catholic church where Charismatic services held. Later he found an
Assemblies of God church where he heard about Heritage U.S.A and the P.T.L. Club. He attend their camp ground and it was there he received the baptism in the Holy Spirit and a call to ministry. Instead of becoming a lawyer he became a Youth Pastor.

He attended VFCC. While in college he was part of the 3D music group which traveled ministering in song. On one trip to the Potomac District Youth Camp he met his future wife, Sheri, who later came to VFCC - they started dating and eventually married.

He graduated from VFCC in 1984 and worked for some time at the Debroah Foundation, where he served as a house parent, cared for and planed activities for clients ranging from 18-30 years of age. He left the foundation after a dear friend, who also worked their, was hit in the chest by one to the clients and died.

He and Sheri began seeking God as to where He wanted them to go. “I just didn’t take anything that came along. The questions wasn’t, “Will they want me to work for them? No, the question was “Do I want to work for them?” “I would never accept a position without first going to a service to hear the pastor. Having dinner with a family will tell you a whole lot about their situation.”

He and his family ended up at Glad Tidings in Reading, PA and the youth pastor. After being there for one year he was asked to take over children’s ministry. Before he knew it he was wearing many different hats. During that time he began to realize he can’t do it all and he needed a team to work with him. He was on staff at Glad Tidings from 1985-1997.

After accepting a position at the Penn/Del District Office his family continued to attend Glad Tidings. He now serves as the Saturday night pastor at the church.

When asked, “What is your most difficult thing?” He quickly answered, “Me!” He began to share some of the struggles he has had to work through - explaining that when you live in they type of environment he did growing up - it leaves the door open for all kinds of stuff.

He has found the Faithfulness of God and the importance of having an accountability partners. When asked what he felt was the biggest test of God’s faithfulness, he replied, “The biggest test of God’s faithfulness has been through my wonderful wife and two great kids.”

It is not always easy to be transparent in front of a group of people. Let along a class of college students. Truly we all have gone through things that would be helpful to the younger generation coming up, if we would share our experiences. I appreciate Professor Tom’s openness with the class which show that no matter your past God can still use us!

Intervies With A Unchurched Friend

My interview was with a woman by the name of Flora Mae. Most of her life she has not gone to
church. However, from time to time over the years she would start but with all her efforts she
only lasted a few weeks before she would loose interest once again.

At the present time she not attending church anywhere and hasn’t for some time. She tells me
she prays and reads her Bible at home.

Our Interview

1. What are a few issues or topics that impact or interest you?

* As I watch and listen to the news and all that is happening in the world, I would like to know
more about all that is happening relates to the Bible.

I said, “So, are you saying you would like to know more of how the book of Revelation lines up
with what’s happening in our world right now? She replied, “Yea, I guess that’s the book I’m
talking about.”

* I would like to know why there are so many different demonstrations. Like the Catholic, Baptist, Christian, Lutheran, Methodist, Church of God, Assemblies of God. Where did they all come from? If there is suppose to be only one God to follow I don’t understand why everybody is different.

* I would like to know what it means when people say, ‘God has a plan and I need to accept His
plan.’ I would be interested in learning how His plan could involve the suffering of innocent children. Those who are being harmed and even born with deformities and can’t live a normal healthy childhood.

* I would also be interested in learning why people who say they love God and go to church all
the time, even pastors, deal with pain and suffering. If He is a merciful God then where is the mercy?

* When my mother was dying people would say to me, ‘God is trying to get the attention of her
children.’ If that is the case they why did He have her suffer? Why didn’t He just tap us on the shoulder instead of trying to get my attention by making my mother suffer? These might not be topics of interest but they are things I really would like to know.

2. Why do you think most people don’t attend church?

* We hear of so many pastors who hide their evilness behind the pulpit. Pastor’s and Priest are being arrested for molestation. There is so much adultery and greed. Aren’t Pastors suppose to be holy?

* Feel they don’t have the proper clothing.

* Afraid of being made fun of

* Afraid of being the new person in church

* I don’t want to raise have to raise my hand, stand or come up front to be recognized. That makes me feel like I am being judged and put on the spot.

* Afraid they will call on me to read or ask me a question that I don’t know the answer to.

* One church had everyone who brought their Bible - hold it up high so they knew who had a
Bible. I didn’t take mine because the print was to small and I could see it. I was so embarrassed. Anyway I am there for the pastor to teach me.

* I don’t want to be asked to fill out an information card. Some people are not ready to give out
their personal information. A lot of information cards ask questions that I’m not sure I want to get the answers to. Like, I don’t want them to know I have problems. And what if they send someone to my house to talk to me that I don’t feel comfortable talking with.

I’m not even sure I want someone coming to my house at all. What is my family is discussing a problem and they come knocking at the door at that time. Not good.

Another reason I don’t like to fill out their cards ahead of time: I’m not sure what the people are like, friendly or not or if I like the pastor’s message. It’s too late if I have already given them my information.

3. If you were to look for a church to attend, what kind of things would you look for?

* Smaller church

* Friendly people

* A Pastor that shares his knowledge of the Bible

* A Pastor who will share the goals of reaching eternity (heaven)

* Younger people — not just old people — a younger generation

4. What advice can you give to pastors who really want to be helpful to people?

* Let people know you are available to talk, listen or pray whenever needed

* Let people know you will keep problems between them and the Lord. Unless it is asking for
others to pray too (prayer request)

* It would be nice if the Pastor would call once in a while just to check people. That person
might have something bothering them but they might feel it is not important enough to ask for help.

* I would really be helpful if they would put their sermon topic and scripture text in the bulletin.
I like to go over the topic with my Bible at home but can’t.

* They could really help the needy in the community with things like: clothing and food. Helping the elderly or families who have trouble children. They could also offer more activities to younger people in the community.

Flora Mae is actually my aunt. We have talked many, many times over the years. However,
asking her these four questions has given me a deeper insight of her view on the church,
ministers, and those who call themselves Christians.

After she gave her answers I went back and touched on several of her concerns. We talked about
why bad things seem to happen to innocent people, we talked about how everything we hear
must be filtered through the Word of God. How we can’t hold a grudge against those who have
hurt or offended us. In the light of eternity it’s not worth missing out with Jesus. We talked
about forgiveness and what it means that God has a plan for our lives.

Flora Mae is defiantly as searcher. She has prayed the sinners prayer and wants to make it to
heaven. She is just trying to figure it all out in her mind.

I found her reasons for not wanting to fill out an information quite interesting. It has made me
rethink of what we do personally at our church. Not that we ‘pressure’ people into doing this,
because we don’t. Just was so appreciative that she went into detail as to why she doesn’t like
that.

She is only ten years older than me and we are very close. We talk quite often and we pray
together a lot. I know the difficulties she has experienced when she tries to find a church. I pray
she will be able to push pass her fears.

Class Project Make Up Lesson

Coaching 503
Change, Transition, and Transformation

Romans 12:1-2 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as living and hold sacrifices, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.

Coaching 503 is designed to help, the would be, coach to be able to do the following:

∙ Understand the dynamics of change, transition and transformation
∙ Use coaching skills and the coaching process to help people navigate through the three
∙ And increase effectiveness as a catalyst for transformation

When it comes to change most people are quick to say, “I don’t like it!” However, if we want to move from one place to another change must take place. In looking at the three aspects of Coaching 503 one must first define and understand the meaning of each.

Change is: external, temporary, self initiated, doing, relationship with other & God

Change always starts in the mind. If we always stay where we stop offering ourselves as an act of worship to God. If one truly wants to be transformed they must first recognize their need for others especially God. To often those longing for changes refuse the cocoon experience, for it is within the cocoon that transformation comes. Unfortunately, if change does not come we will die either physically, spiritually or both.

Transition is: internal, resisted, frustrating, confusing, fearful, painful, a mind shift

In this step of the journey to transformation we become a living sacrifice. In the Old Testament when a sacrifice was given salt placed on it. A dead sacrifice feels no pain. However, if you add salt to the wound of a living sacrifice there will great pain and all that comes with it. Not only is this a painful process it leaves the PBC (person being coached) with feeling of total vulnerability which only adds to the pain. As coaches we must let them know it’s ok to have these feeling and to feel the way they do.

M. Scott Peck says, “The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur when we are deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled. For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort, that we are likely to step out of our ruts and start searching for different ways or truer answers.”

Transformation is: internal, permanent, God initiated, being, new relationships

It is vital that we as coaches understand that transformation is a process and we are to coach people through that process. For that to happen we must first learn we can not tell they what they need to do. Instead we must learn to ask the right questions that will enable them to come up with their own process. (example: Job’s friends vs. God’s response). In doing so we will help the PBC move from surviving to thriving (Philippians 1:9-11; Psalm 63:3-4) which will lead them from bondage to freedom (Galatians 5:1, 13; 2 Corinthians 3:17). Freedom, that’s a great place to be!

A good coach will be able to help people moved into that transformation place, by helping the PBC:

∙ Expand their horizon to new possibilities.
∙ Elicit powerful new commitments.
∙ Transform their point of view about themselves.
∙ Foster new ways of being, skills, and practices.
∙ Move past places where they are stuck.
∙ Coaching them to effective action.

Although a business can undergo changes within it structure, changes that will cause the business to expand and grow to new levels, we can’t be so quick to use the work transformation in this setting. For true transformation can only come about once an individual has accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. True transformation happens from the inside out. The old has gone and the new has come. Some individuals have even gone as far as to change their name, all because they have found a new identity in Christ Jesus.

I have personally experienced this type of transformation in my own life I have had the privilege of helping others in their journey as well. It is my desire to see our church fulled with individuals who can sing, “Look What The Lord Has Done” not because they can read the words off the wall, but because they have experienced this transforming power for themselves. I believe as I learn to apply these coaching skills that desire will soon become a reality.

It is so my desire to become a coach that will be able to help people through the process of becoming transformed.

Jason Lamer

Guest Speaker: Jason Lamer
February 8, 2011

Jason lives in Harrisburg, Pa and serves as the Director of Youth Alive for the PennDel District of
the Assemblies of God.

Jason’s father became a Christian when Jason was two years old. So at a very young age he was
taught the ways of God and what it truly meant to be a servant of God. Leading by example, his
father would take Jason along as he ministered in a rescue mission for men and at the New Life
Ministry for girls.

Jason said, “My dad lived his whole life finding needs and serving people. He would always say
ministry is never a job, that’s who we are. Ministry is my hobby. His hobby was to build the
church and meet the needs of people.”

Jason said, “Just today my dad and I were talking about ministry. And he told me he would go
play golf with friends and they vowed not to talk about ministry. Yet somehow the conversation
always came back to ministry. “That isn’t work” my dad said, “That’s fun.”

At the age of thirteen Jason gave his heart to Jesus. That night he told God, “I am giving you
everything.” He was filled with the Holy Spirit and received a passion for God. Jason recalls, “I
saw myself preaching to people. And at the age of thirteen I preached my first message.”

“My dad always gave opportunity for me to preach. He has even given the same opportunity to
his twelve year old grandson. Dad was my newt work to preaching events.”

During his senior year in high school Jason gave up all sports, which he loved, to have more
ministry time. He traveled doing Youth Rallies during his senior year. Why6yyen he graduated
from high school his parents gave him $500 and said, “Make a life for yourself.” He laughed and
said, “So, he took the money and went out to eat a couple of times.”

He attend North Central College, where he met and married his wife. In 1999 he graduated from
North Central and went to Uniontown, PA where he serve as Youth Pastor for seven years. In
2006 he began to feel God stirring his heart and he knew his ministry was about to change. “God
told me, ‘It’s your turn!’ This was on a Saturday and two days later, on Monday I received a call
from Doug Sayers asking me if I was setting down because he had something exciting to talk to
me about. I already knew what it was.”

Jason gave great tribute to his father. He was asked, “What do you pray for your children” he
replied, “I pray three things over my children. First, that they would always be sensitive to the
Holy Spirit. Second, that they would have humility before God. And third, for them to have a
servants heart.”

Jason ended the class by saying, “God has divinely ordered our steps. I have walked the path He
has laid out for me at the age of thirteen. He is faithful. Don’t’ ever walk in fear or your own
comfort. Let God lead you in all comfort.”

Class Project ~ Option #5 ~ Coaching 501

Class Project - Option # 5
Coaching 501

"Building Blocks for Powerful Coaching"

Proverbs 20:5 The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, But a man of understanding draws them out.

Prior to attending Coaching 501 I had heard of coaching and had even been in meetings where the concept was practiced. However, a couple of hours did not give a full understanding of how this worked.

After taking the class I not only have a much better understanding but a great sense of relief . Growing up I always assumed that those in ministry needed to have all the right answers. This brought me a great deal of stress at times and even fear when someone would say, “Can I talk with you?” because I know how inadequate I am to even begin to full such a roll.

Another great relief was to learn what coaching is not. 1) Coaching is not counseling. A counselor deals with the past while a coach evaluates the present and move the person toward the future. 2) Coaching is not mentoring. A mentor is a one who counsels or teaches. With the goal of the mentee becoming like his/her mentor.

This class, as intense as it was, gave me valuable tools when it comes to helping others move forward in their life.

Some of the skills I learned were — A Good Coach Will:
∙ Build a trust. If the client can not trust you, you will not be able to help them. All that is shared must be kept confidential.
∙ Be a good listener. The client is the one to steer the conversation. They are the ones who decide what to talk a bout. The coach is there to help them process their thoughts.
∙ Be a good communicator. As he/she listens to the client they must be able to communicate clearly so the client understands what’s being said.
∙ Ask the tough questions. Tough questions will help the client to dig deeper within themselves to find the reasons why, or what to do next. Questions such as: What motivates you in life right now? What is currently preventing you from reaching this goal? What can you eliminate in your life to help you reach your goal this time? What are you tolerating right now in your personal life? What are you willing to do in the next 30 days?
∙ Ask open ended questions. Yes and no answers will get you no where. Questions must be asked to make the client think. Questions should be direct, simple and open ended.
∙ Help client narrow down topic. Helping them to stay focused on the situation at hand and help them come to a plan of action.

This class was amazing and I look forward to using the tools I have learned.

Story Of A Christ Follower ~ Aquila

Story Of A Christ Follower
Aquila
Acts 18 - Romans 16:3 - 1 Corinthians 16:19

Aquila and his wife Priscilla were devout Jews who lived in Rome until Claudius gave orders for all the Jews to leave. After leaving Rome they settled in the town of Corinth.

Now Paul had been traveling through different cities teaching and preaching the resurrection from the dead. Upon leaving Athens he arrived in Corinth. It was there that he met Aquila. One would assume they made a connection during this first encounter and somewhere during their conversation Aquila tells Paul that he and his wife are tent makes by trade. Sometime later Paul goes to their home and Aquila offers to let him stay there and work with him making tents.
Little did he know at that time the journey that was about to unfold for him and his wife.

As they were getting acquainted Paul began to give his testimony of how he met Jesus on the road to Damascus. Aquila was hanging on every word as Paul told of the joys and struggles he had encountered as he himself followed the leading of the Lord. I would have loved the opportunity to have listened in on those conversations.

I think of the words Paul spike in 1 Corinthians 11:1 when he said, “Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ.” It could have been a warm Summer day as Paul is sharing with Aquila that he come to know this Jesus that Paul speaks so freely and passionately about. I can just imagine them kneeling right there, in the midst of their work, as Aquila surrenders his life to Jesus Christ. Two amazing things happened that day. Not only did Aquila and his wife give their hearts to Jesus - Paul became a mentor for Aquila as well, teaching him what it meant to be a devoted follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. The hours they spent together making tents and talking about Jesus was setting Aquila on a path that would one day cause him to lead others down the same path.

Aquila soon realized that being sold out to Jesus was not always going to be an easy road to travel. He observed first hand the opposition and abuse Paul faces as he declared that Jesus was the Christ. He saw Paul’s determination to keep speaking the truth no matter what the cost. The same determination that was beginning to develop in his own heart. Paul’s example made him more determined than ever to be a Christ follower.

The bond between these three had become so strong that when Paul decided to leave Corinth they left with him. Upon their arrival at Ephesus Paul parted ways. However, the lives of this couple would never be the same. It was now Aquila’s turn to step into the role of helping others become devoted Christ followers and God opened the door for that very thing to happen.

A young Jewish man by the name of Apollos comes to Ephesus. He was a learned man and with a thorough knowledge of the Scripture. Aquila and his wife heard this young man speaking boldly in the synagogue. After he had finished Aquila invites him to join them at their home. Even though Apollos was quite knowledgeable of Scripture Aquila wanted to use this opportunity to explain the way of God more adequately to him. He spoke into the life this young man just as Paul had spoken into his life.

Aquila’s faith along with Pirscilla's grew stronger and stronger as they continued to put into practice those things Paul taught them and following the leading of the Holy Spirit. Their deep love and passion for Jesus and His followers, was quiet evident as they were willing to risk their very lives to protect Paul and I'm sure others as well.

We all meet people on our journey, people who desperately need to know about Jesus. People we can take the opportunity to build a relationship with. Disciplining then not only in word but in deeds as well. Paul not only talked the talk, he walked the walk and lived a life that caused Aquila to want to follow Paul who was following Christ. When we invest into the lives of others we build a bond that can't be broken. No matter where our journey may take us.

That was the type of relationship Aquila and Priscilla had with Paul. Although they were separated for a time, each going about the Father’s business, their hearts were still connected. Somewhere along the way they are brought back together.

I’m sure Aquila was not the same man Paul met as he arrived in Corinth some years back. No Aquila had become a devoted follower of our Lord Jesus Christ. A man burning with a passion to care for, look after and even risk his life if need for saints like Paul.

John Ratz

What makes a good team? One who builds small groups and a string discipleship program.

John was born in Hong Kong and grew up in a Pastor’s home. At the age of three his family left
Hong Kong and throughout his life he has lived Kenya, Canada, Michigan and Pennsylvania.
He felt all the moving around was normal and felt pity for those who lived in the same place all
their lives.

When asked if he knew another language, he laughed and said, “I know swear words that have to
do with the church. Which shows the bitterness and resentment they have toward the church.”

In 1993 he began working in a church where his passion for small groups was burning within his
spirit. The senior Pastor finally said, “Put up or shut up!” This set John and a mission to begin
small groups. For a full year they planned and strategize how this would look in the church. At the
end of that year they pitched the vision to those interested, 120 attended that meeting.

Their small groups started with a series that lasted 6-8 weeks. Each of the 120 interested persons
had to take a turn at leading. At the end of the 8 weeks another meeting was held so they could
recap. From there 60 groups were started. In five years 60% of the adults were involved in a small
group. It is important to know the percentage of adults that are involved in a group. This can be
done by doing a special series to get a total count.

Groups meet on set nights with each group studying the same thing. A good leader will be able to
coach the class by asking questions like: What’s the Word saying? And how can we apply it?

Tracking Visitors: Letter from the Pastor. Phone call within 24 hours.
Questions to ask over the phone: What did you think of the service? Are you thinking of coming
back? Did someone invite you? How did you hear about the church? Is there’s anything we can
do to help you in your spiritual journey? Glad you were with us and pray for them.

I asked John about the children at one of our C3 Groups which meets on Sunday evenings. My
concern was for the children (two boys, brothers) at the group my husband and I lead. These
children are in the basement during the group time. From time to time they will come up for a
drink or to ask a question only to be told by the mom to go back down stairs. I feel bad for the
boys and concerned they might fell pushed out and resent the group being there. John gave a great
example of children in one of his groups who put on a puppet show for the adults. Class mates
offered encouragement of being in groups themselves and loved being ‘in the basement’. Tom
offered a wonderful suggestion, “Take the boys something special from time to time.” Which I
plan to do!

Tonight was wonderful and I look forward to the rest of the semester.