and those who have never heard of Him will understand.

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people FREE METHODIST WORLD MISSION

APRIL – JUNE 2013

“… and those who have never heard of Him will understand.” (Romans 15:21b NLT)

F O L L O W I N G G O D ’S H E A R T . . .

Global problems require global networks by Bishop David Roller

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’m increasingly puzzled by people and churches attempting to solve global solutions by themselves, as though nobody else was working on the issues of world hunger, human trafficking, pure water, health prevention, education of women, and the steps of faith to Jesus. I’m also frustrated when, we, as a denomination arrogantly attempt global solutions by ourselves. Both behaviors suggest an unhealthy do-it-yourselfism contrary to both common sense and biblical admonition. At the same time, I applaud people and churches who jump headlong in to do anything and everything they can to solve global problems, as long as they do it in concert with the global church! My frustration is when ministries that could make a real impact are isolated from the global church because the person who had that particular ministry-vision Bishop Roller didn’t understand how big the world is and how small their reach is. So the ministry dries up as the size of the problem overwhelms the size of their ministry. Global problems require global solutions. And global solutions require global networks. That’s why we band together for coordinated, coherent ministry around the world. That coordinated, coherent ministry is called Free Methodist World Missions. It overlaps geopolitical boundaries. It spills over denominational distinctions. It overtakes cultural and linguistic barriers. It connects people and churches around the world in our common purposes. If you’re only interested in addressing small problems, you can do it yourself. If you’re looking at addressing the big problems, let’s do it together.

Pastor Rushik greets Ethiopian friend.

How the church is born by Pastor J.R. Rushik, Storehouse, PA

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verybody turns their head when a church is launched with a monster budget, viral messaging and a well-appointed, full-time team, but most churches don’t start that way. In fact, I’ve found the vast majority of church plants emerge from a single person with an authentic passion for Christ combined with a contagious belief that God will make a difference in other people’s lives through their effort. They work hard, but more than that, they faithfully believe God is hard at work. All church plants are successful. Of course, some last longer than others; and some are bigger than others; but all church plants, in some way, make a difference in individual lives. Having an impact on lives is what the church is about. I shouldn’t have to write this, but the goal of the church isn’t a rockin’ worship band, or a finely-tuned liturgy, stained-glass window, Starbucks-styled café, thousand-seat auditorium or collection of likes on a Facebook page. Nor is it about budgets or buildings. These are all good things, just not the main thing. The church is about seeing Jesus make a difference

The vast majority of Nepali people, like the woman on the cover, are Hindu. Photo by Rev. Steve Evoy

Not sure what these boxes are? 2

They’re QR codes, two-dimensional barcodes that can be read by smartphone cameras.

Free Methodist World Mission People | April – June 2013

Here’s what to do with them. � Search “QR code” to find a free QR app for your phone. � Download the app.

� Hold your phone over the QR box to scan the code. � The code will direct your phone to the desired site. � Enjoy.

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FREE METHODISTS on a MISSION the JOURNEY begins with you! Exploration An Ethiopian community transformed by the gospel.

in people’s lives. It doesn’t matter where the church is located or the method (style) they use – when churches leverage the power of the gospel to make a difference in someone’s life, they succeed. I’ve had the opportunity to witness the growth of the indigenous church in Ethiopia. It’s amazing to camp in the hills of Africa, and then travel by horseback to a straw hut and experience a community transformed by the gospel. Guess how these churches form. They form because an influential person in a village hears and responds to the gospel. Often this person is a shaman, witch doctor or some sort of village sage with a reputation of caring for others – not in ways we would appreciate, but caring nonetheless. When these people are transformed by the gospel, they are overwhelmed with a single thought, “This helped me. I must share it with others.” They become a voice for the life-transforming power of God as evidenced by their own transformed lives. Their friends hear the message, and a church is born. No seminary, no ordination, no electric guitar, no iPhone, and nowhere to tweet 140 characters. Just their story they are compelled to share with people they care about. That’s how the church is born. In one rural area in Ethiopia, 14 (and counting) churches can be found throughout the hillside villages. All started in the last few years. And all started because one person cared enough to share with others the hope they found in Jesus Christ. That’s how the church starts. That’s how movements are born. That’s how God’s kingdom is expanding. Pretty simple, huh? Believe me, I love all the bells and whistles of the modern church (and we need much of it to be relevant in our culture), but that isn’t the secret sauce. In fact, the secret isn’t really a secret. It’s in every fruitful leader (pastor, missionary, volunteer) with whom I’ve rubbed shoulders. It’s a transformed person with enough faith to believe God can transform someone else’s life. They believe it so fully they must share it with everyone they care about. That’s what Jesus did. He picked a couple of guys and shared a message that changed their lives. And eventually changed the world. Remember, He didn’t start with changing the world. Jesus started with a message of hope and a few individuals. If we’re wise, we’ll do the same.

Local Church Affirmation

Application

Assessment Appointment

Alternate Options Training Deployment

Together is better, Let’s GO! When God calls, we’re listening too. It would be our privilege and joy to help you serve the church internationally.

[email protected] or 800-342-5531, ext. 226

Go to http://tinyurl.com/apy5c5y to see how the Free Methodist Church in Ukraine is using the “simple church” concept.

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One Mission by Dr. Delia Nüesch-Olver

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Worldwide, cities gain more than a million people a week. Nearly half the population of Africa is urban, and 84 percent of Latin Americans live in cities.

wo years ago I met Teresa – an amazing pastor in Cape Town, South Africa. She had moved from the countryside to the city to start a market business. Once there, she started telling people about Jesus, introducing many other shopkeepers to the Lord. She told me: “I minister to them, and together we try to bless the people from around the world who come to the market.” I prayed with Pastor Teresa in the market. A crowd grew around us, and when I finished, somebody asked, “Would you pray for me?” For an hour, I prayed in English and other languages for shopkeepers and tourists. As we finished, a woman’s cellphone rang with a call from her daughter in Zimbabwe. I overheard the woman telling her daughter about Jesus. This illustrates the flattened world in which we live and highlights the opportunities and challenges of missions today. To interpret this story, I turn to Jesus’ last words: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Jesus shows us how the whole world can be changed by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Start with Jerusalem. Most of the disciples were small-town people from Galilee, but they knew Jerusalem was a center of religious, political, economic and cultural life. They could understand the strategic importance of reaching Jerusalem if the message of Jesus was going to spread. But Jesus had been killed there, and leaders still plotted to stamp out what was left of His movement. Jerusalem was a place of intimidation and hostility. Jesus still calls us to the city. Like Jerusalem then, cities today are hubs for strategic outreach. The pace and scale of urbanization around the world is breathtaking. More than half of the world’s people now live in cities. Worldwide, cities gain more than a million people a week. Nearly half the population of Africa is urban, and 84 percent of Latin Americans live in cities. Cities are places of traffic, pollution, noise, high living costs, crowded living conditions, economic disparity, stress, commuting and violence. Yet people flock to urban areas because, in many parts of the world, going to the city is the one hope people have to feed their families and educate their children. As believers we need to search for God’s purpose in these trends.

Left to right: Mexico City, Mexico, population 8,864,370 Quito, Ecuador, population 1.801 million Buenos Aires, Argentina, population 15.2 million

Go to http://tinyurl.com/bxjbdv6 to hear more from Dr. Delia Nüesch-Olver about the realities of urban ministry.

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Free Methodist World Mission People | April – June 2013

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I often catch glimpses of God’s purpose in calling us to Jerusalem. Several years ago, people in Ypsilanti, Michigan, welcomed a Venezuelan to their church. This person later started a Free Methodist Church in Venezuela, which is now the largest Spanish-speaking church in the world, with a K-12 school of 300-plus students and an accredited seminary with an enrollment of more than 120 students! If you reach your city, you touch the world. Jesus said start in Jerusalem and go on to all Judea and Samaria. Judea and Samaria represented a different kind of trouble and danger than Jerusalem. In reaching Judea with the gospel, the apostles would have to overcome barriers of regional pride and cultural arrogance. In moving into Samaria, they would have to overcome long-held ethnic and social prejudices. Jesus was asking them to do what their culture and context told them was repugnant. As Christians we need to lay our prejudices at the feet of Jesus. In order for the gospel to take root, we must serve people with love and without prejudice in our heart. Finally, Jesus instructed His disciples

to go to the ends of the world. This short phrase points to more danger and trouble. The ends of the earth used to mean a far away place. When my grandparents went to Argentina as missionaries, they went “to the ends of the earth” and never returned. But we Argentineans are now everywhere. The global population is on the move, bringing the ends of the earth right to where we live. When we get to other countries, our first job is to look around for what God is already doing there and through whom, so we can join the story God has been writing for millennia. Thank God we can go together as the body of Christ to reach the ends of the earth, regardless of where it is. There are two ways we will be able to be Jesus’ witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and the ends of the earth: First, we witness together. I love the African proverb: “‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’” In this fast-changing world, we need to go far, and we will, if we go together: each individual, each family, each church, using what God has given us and moving forward together in the name of Jesus. My colleague Tim Dearborn, Director

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of Faith and Development Programmes for World Vision International, says, “When we march in mission, we are part of a victory procession.” We can all participate in this victory procession: men and women, black and white, and Swiss-Argentinean; those here and those there; those coming and those going; churches that give, missionaries who go, prayer partners who intercede. Second, we witness by the Spirit’s power. Jesus said to His disciples: “… What you’ll get is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you will be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world” (Acts 1:7-8 MSG). As the Holy Spirit comes on us – our families and churches – and as we live Spirit-empowered lives, we anchor this victory procession by continuing what others have begun – in Cape Town, South Africa; in Ypsilanti, Michigan; in Latin America; and in the ends of the earth. The task is huge. But we can march into the world as partners in this gospel, confident that He Who began a great work in us will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

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G L O B A L

N E W S

AFRICA South Africa: The Free Methodist Church of South Africa held its General Conference January 10 to 13. Bishop Lincoln Shembe was reelected for a second term. Bishop Luis Wanela (Mozambique) and Bishop Abner Chauke (Zimbabwe) presided over the election. Ninetyone churches, with more than 6,000 members, are a part of the FMC in South Africa.

Burundi: Hope Africa University celebrated its eighth graduating class on Fri., Dec. 21, 2012, with 487 degrees conferred, including masters and doctoral degrees for the first time. In her speech, Burundi’s vice president of the Senate called the medical doctors a blessing to the nation of Burundi and to all of East Africa.

ASIA India: The India General Conference of the FMC will be established this October. The conference sessions will be held Oct. 4 and 5. A grand celebration will commence on Sun., Oct. 6. FM work in India started in 1881. India: Dr. Pratap and Dr. Jennifer who served at Umri Christian Hospital for five years retired in November. Numerous improvements to the facilities and equipment have been made under their supervision. Dr. Sam and Dr. Elizabeth Jevagam now lead ministry at the hospital. Philippines: Bishop Jim Tuan gives praise for the good progress being made on the repair of churches and parsonages affected by Typhoon Bopha, which is considered the worst typhoon to hit the Philippines in 80 years. It hit the island of Mindanao Dec. 6, 2012, killing more than 600 people, displacing thousands. Assistance from the Bishops Crisis Fund helped more than 30 churches. Students from Light & Life Bible College helped rebuild a

classmate’s house. Elim Farm, an indigenous agricultural development project that provides financial aid and agricultural technology so church planters and members can adequately support their families, had 80 percent of its trees severely damaged, according to farm manager Elizabeth Langam. Bishop Matt Thomas writes, “Having lived in the Philippines and served the FM Church there, I am familiar with many of the churches that have been damaged. It is unimaginable what kind of winds and torrent of rain poured through there. The $4,000 sent from the Bishops’ Crisis Response Fund will only scratch the surface of emergency need.” Continue to pray many people will turn to the One who can help when no one else can. Donations can be made to the Bishops’ Crisis Response Fund by going to give.fmcusa.org.

EUROPE Greece: After nine years of waiting, the Thessaloniki congregation finally received official church registration from the Greek government. FM ministry in Greece began in 2000.

International Child Care Ministries/ SEED Livelihood Christmas Catalog: ICCM and SEED celebrate the success of their first online Christmas giving catalog “Better Giving”. This catalog offered a variety of creative and alternative giving opportunities that are making life-change around the globe. Linda Adams reports, “Generous ICCM donors

Correction: A book listed on page four of the Jan.-March 2013 World Mission People magazine, Welcoming the Stranger: Justice, Compassion & Truth in the Immigration Debate, was written by Matthew Soerens and Jenny Hwang. We are sorry for misspelling Hwang’s last name.

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Free Methodist World Mission People | April – June 2013

gave animals to children and their families around the world – a total of 1,510 animals – everything from chickens, to goats, to cows and buffalo. These animals don’t just provide a meal, but possibilities of milk, wool, eggs, resources that multiply blessings.” David and Rose Brewer, SEED Livelihood co-directors estimate that catalog sales for SEED products and was more than $10,000, in addition, f$9,970 was raised for development projects in India, Ethiopia and the Philippines. “The most exciting thing for us was seeing the light bulb go on that the FM church is concerned with justice and compassion issues such as: creation care, education, economic justice and fighting trafficking.”

Missions Family Celebrating: FM affiliate missionary and Empowering Lives International (ELI) founder Don Rogers was honored as Azusa Pacific University’s alumnus of the year in October (2012). Don works alongside key national leaders helping establish Skills for Life Training Centers, Christian schools, orphanages and health ministries in Kenya, Tanzania, Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan. Bereavement: FMWM grieves with the Guy Crawford family at the loss of Guy’s father, Merle Crawford. Merle passed away Nov. 11 (2012) in Michigan. Services were held Nov. 16 in Ann Arbor. Guy and Betsy are associate missionaries serving in Mexico. the family of Dr. Delia Nüesch-Olver, Latin America Area Director, whose father, Jacobo Nüesch, passed away Jan. 3. Services were held in Switzerland. the family of Phyllis Sortor (Nigeria) whose 7-year-old granddaughter Bailey Robinson passed away Jan. 8 after a hardfought battle with Mitochondrial Disease. She was one month shy of her 8th birthday. Bailey is survived by her parents, Dave and Chelsea Robinson; brother, Will Reeves; and many other family members. A memorial service was held Jan. 14 at First FMC, Seattle, WA.

Don’t Forget to Pack the Kids book review by Amy Bither, VISA Team and Fast-Track Coordinator Jill Richardson’s recently published book Don’t Forget to Pack the Kids is filled with Continued on Page 11

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Remove this prayer calendar from the magazine and use as a daily guide, to pray for mission needs around the globe. April 1, Mon. – International Child Care Ministries (ICCM) Join in prayer for the 21,000 children in 30 countries who receive help through ICCM. Birthday: Linda Adams, World Missions staff April 2, Tues. – Creative Access, Keith & Julie Pray for Keith as he trains leaders and Julie as she reaches out to women. Birthday: Julie April 3, Wed. – Philippines, Darin & Jill Land, Associate/VISA Pray Darin and Jill have God’s wisdom in their ministries at Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary in Manila. Darin teaches and serves as Dean of Students. Jill is the student visa officer. Birthday: Darin April 4, Thurs. – Middle East/North Africa Pray for the Bible to be fully translated in several dialects of Kurdish to reach 30 million people in this area. Birthday: Pam Sheads, World Missions staff April 5, Fri. – Kenya Pray for the Kenya Modular Bible School’s next session which is scheduled for April 15 to 27. There will be an intake of new students bringing the class total to about 35. Birthday: Paula Gillespie, World Missions staff April 6, Sat. – Mexico, Guy & Betsy Crawford family, Associate/FMWM Pray for the ongoing teaching, development of leaders, building of vision and designing of strategies to reach Mexico for Christ. April 7, Sun. – Nigeria, Phyllis Sortor Pray Phyllis will sense God’s care in addition to safety, stamina and a sense of priority in her work. April 8, Mon. – Latin America, Ricardo & Beth Gómez family Ricardo and Beth ask you to pray they have successful, sustainable partnership raising in the U.S. and for their preparations to transition to the Colombian Biblical Seminary in Medellin. Birthday: Ricardo April 9, Tues. – Asia, David & Sherrill Yardy Pray for the Yardys’ ministry which impacts the India FMC and David’s work as Cross Cultural Consultant for FMWM. Birthday: David; Jason, Creative Access/Associate/VISA April 10, Wed. – Japan Pray for Bishop Jun-ici Hatano as he directs this general conference and helps the church focus on church planting in Japan where less than 2 percent of the population is Christian. April 11, Thurs. – Rwanda, Scott & Natasha Edinger family, Associate/VISA Lift Scott in prayer as he assists with the much-needed pastoral training program.

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April 12, Fri. – Latin America, Dr. Delia Nüesch-Olver & Dr. Paul Olver Pray for stamina and protection over Delia and Paul’s extensive travel schedule. Birthday: Paul April 13, Sat. – Philippines, Fred & Barb Adams Pray for Fred and Barb as they prepare to retire on July 31 after 32 years in the Philippines. Following retirement they will be involved in ministries in Alaska. Birthday: Barb April 14, Sun. – Asia, Steve & Jenny Evoy family Pray for the Evoy family’s transition to new ministries as Steve serves as Asia Area Director. The family will live in Taiwan. Birthday: Steve; Al Mellinger, Bulgaria April 15, Mon. – Bulgaria, Al & Diane Mellinger Pray for the Mellingers who just recently completed partnership building in the U.S. Pray as they refocus on their Bulgaria ministries. Praise God for the Bulgaria team who continued the Mellingers’ ministries in Al and Diane’s absence. April 16, Tues. – Greece, Michael & Maria Long Pray for Christians to be the light of Christ and begin building strong relationships during April, a great season for outreach to people socializing on the streets. Birthday: Michael April 17, Wed. – Burundi, Joel & Janette Miller family Pray for the Millers as they work alongside leaders of the Burundi FMC to impact and improve the lives of many. Birthday: Janette April 18, Thurs. – Costa Rica, Dennis & Kyle Leon family Pray for ongoing success of the children’s ministries programs established earlier this year. Pray for leadership, parent involvement and, ultimately, transformation in the lives of the families and community. April 19, Fri. – Ukraine Pray for people who are reached through the ministry of the mobile Christian library to become true Christ followers. April 20, Sat. – Peru, J.R. & Becky Crouse family J.R. and Becky request prayer that they will be useful in building up church leaders. Birthday: Becky April 21, Sun. – Cambodia, Chris & Yuko Wilkins family Pray the church-planting program will be granted permission at various government levels to go into 15 villages. Pray that many kinds of services, including health, education and Bible studies can be provided. Birthday: Chris April 22, Mon. – Kenya, Cathy & Mark Lessig, Affiliate/ELI Pray for girls attending a one-week teen camp led by Cathy and Mark at the children’s home this week. Pray this will be a time of encouragement for the young women.

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April 23, Tues. – Mexico Pray for several FM pastors or spouses in Mexico who have been experiencing ongoing health problems. Ask God for complete healing.

May 5, Sun. – Creative Access, Henry & Bonnie Pray for Henry and Bonnie who are scheduled to spend the next month in their ministry area – including three countries. Pray for travel safety.

April 24, Wed. – Asia, Rebecca The annual conference of Taiwan meets this month. Pray for a unity among the four districts as they conduct business and share testimonies of God’s work on the island. Pray for those who will be ordained.

May 6, Mon. – Philippines, Jim & Deb Wilson family Pray for the Lord to raise up more pastors and leaders among the 14 million people of Metro Manila.

April 25, Thurs. – Kenya, Jill Parsons, Associate/VISA Pray Jill has continued opportunities to disciple women and involve them in Bible study so God can raise them up to be church leaders. April 26, Fri. – Hungary, Larry & Katie Winckles Pray for the English class at the Family Help Center as it finishes for summer break. Also lift up Larry and Katie as they begin three months of partnership building in the Ohio and Southern Michigan conferences next month. April 27, Sat. – Taiwan Pray for the Christian education committee of the Lukai District as it makes plans for summer youth and children’s camps. Pray many will make decisions to follow Christ or dedicate themselves to full-time ministry at the camp.

April 30, Tues. – Ethiopia Pray for the 10 church-planter trainers working on secondgeneration church plants.

May 12, Sun. – Kenya, Ken & Letty Myers family The Myers request prayer as they continue learning the language and how best to serve in the African context. Also pray for Nathan and Nasya’s educational development.

May 1, Wed. – Brazil, Dan & Hope Owsley family Pray for Dan and Hope as they teach theology courses to pastors and lay leaders. Also pray for Hope as she writes a devotional book based on John Wesley’s sermons which will be printed in Portuguese. May 2, Thurs. – Haiti Pray for God’s grace to surround Bishop Clovis Momplasir as he provides leadership for the more than 100 FM churches in Haiti. Birthday: Deb Miller, World Missions staff

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May 9, Thurs. – Malawi, Ryan & Jen Willson family Pray for the Willson family as they take enrichment leave June to August. Pray for physical rest, professional development and spiritual renewal. Birthday: Jen; “J”, Creative Access/Associate/VISA

May 11, Sat. – Africa, Art & Sylvia Brown, Associate/VISA Art and Sylvia request prayer for missionaries in Africa who serve where clean water, freedom from malaria, consistent electrical power and adequate internet cannot be taken for granted and their absence complicates nearly everything in ministry. Birthday: Sylvia

April 29, Mon. – Kenya, Debbie Hogeboom Pray along with Debbie for open doors and opportunities to impact Christians and non-Christians with the power of the gospel.

May 4, Sat. – Greece Pray for the growing congregation in Thessaloniki, whose ministries reach beyond their city to touch the lives of people throughout the Balkans.

May 8, Wed. – Latin America Pray for stamina and wisdom for Hiuberth Zapata as he leads the FM work in Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. Birthday: Beth Gómez, Latin America

May 10, Fri. – Chile, Kay Stotts & Leo Godoy family Pray for a fresh anointing of the Holy Spirit over Kay and her family. Birthday: Kay

April 28, Sun. – Creative Access, Marie Pray Marie continues to build meaningful relationships with students, friends and others. Birthday: Sally, Creative Access, Associate/VISA

May 3, Fri. – Creative Access, Mark & Lena’s family Pray for discernment in developing local leadership. Birthday: Mark

May 7, Tues. – Rwanda, Sheila Etherington, Associate/FMWM Pray for a qualified hospital administrator to help the hospital develop strategies to deal with the increasing demands on the administrative team.

May 13, Mon. – Philippines, Roger & Vangie Stone, Associate/SIL Pray for the Ayta Mag-indi translation team as they finish work on the book of Luke and begin to make plans for producing the Jesus film in their language. Birthday: Roger May 14, Tues. – Creative Access, Dustin & Megan Pray for God’s protection over Dustin and Megan as they coach emerging leaders. May 15, Wed. – Bulgaria, Chance & Dee Dee Galloway family, Associate/VISA Pray with the Galloways for the teams they will welcome for summer ministries. May 16, Thurs. – Haiti, Rick & Cookie Ireland Pray for the growth of Haiti Providence University and for God to provide the needed faculty.

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May 17, Fri. – Democratic Republic of Congo Praise the Lord for donors who give water filters to provide clean water to many families in the eastern part of the country. May 18, Sat. – Thailand, Corey & Connie Persing, Associate/Intern Pray for God to continue to bless the Thai national work, including the Jasmine Project, Zion Land and the Lahu House. May 19, Sun. – Taiwan, Tim & Lily Kinkead Pray for the Chung Lun FM Church’s English ministry which is reaching many people from Buddhist families. May 20, Mon. – Mexico, Gary & Jann Allen Gary and Jann will be traveling to several outlying churches to conduct training. Pray this will be a blessed time for the lay pastors and lay leaders who attend. May 21, Tues. – Greece, Kali Long Papanagis, Associate/VISA Pray for the ongoing ministries of the youth movement “Streetlights” as it positively impacts the community. May 22, Wed. – Creative Access, Ken & Linda Pray for students from this world area who study in the U.S. to be ministered to by believers. May 23, Thurs. – Malaysia Pray for endeavors to plant cell churches in the Ipoh region of Malaysia. Rev. Henry Ng and his wife, Jessica, lead the FM work here. May 24, Fri. – Haiti, Dan & Dee Ann Snyder, Associate/ FMWM Pray for the ongoing needs of Dessalines Hospital and the staff. Praise the Lord for short-term teams that continue to minister here. May 25, Sat. – SEED Livelihood, David & Rose Brewer family, Associate/VISA Pray for Rose as she leads SEED’s product development efforts with a number of groups. Also pray for God’s team working with her in partnering with new and current groups. Birthday: Rose May 26, Sun. – Africa, Mike & Vickie Reynen family Pray for wisdom, physical health, safety in travel, and spiritual growth for Mike and Vickie as they work alongside FM ministries across Africa. May 27, Mon. – U.S. Missions, Kevin Austin, Associate/FMWM Kevin requests prayer for his emotional and spiritual wellbeing as he regularly experiences the tragic impact of modern slavery. Birthday: Kevin May 28, Tues. – Creative Access, Adam & Rebecca’s family Pray for open doors to the gospel where Adam and Rebecca minister.

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May 29, Wed. – SEED Livelihood As SEED representatives make presentations at annual conferences in the U.S., pray more churches would catch the vision of economic justice and the whole gospel that would result in growing partnerships with SEED. May 30, Thurs. – Slovakia Pray those of this nation who are disillusioned will seek truth and justice in the Lord and for their country. Birthday: Grace, Creative Access/Associate/VISA May 31, Fri. – Philippines Pray for transformation in the lives of 100 sponsored kids at the Hope for Davao Street Children project. Pray for the teachers and social workers as they love and reach out to the youth and their families. June 1, Sat. – Africa, Don & Amy Rogers family, Affiliate/ELI Over the next four months, Empowering Lives International’s Kipkaren River Training Center will host more than 75 people serving on church teams. Pray each team member will have the eyes, ears and heart of Christ as they enter into a new culture. June 2, Sun. – Brazil Pray for the leadership for the FMC in Brazil: Bishop Jose Ildo Swartele de Mello and Superintendent of the Nikkei Annual Conference, Marcelo Takara. June 3, Mon. – Missions Family, Linda Stryker As Linda responds to the needs of churches and individuals who want to reach out to newcomers, particularly those from central Africa, pray she will experience God’s wisdom and direction. June 4, Tues. – Taiwan, Susan Yu, Associate/FMWM Holy Light Theological Seminary will hold graduation ceremonies in mid-June. Pray for those who will begin fulltime ministry after graduation. June 5, Wed. – Taiwan, David & Sarah Clemente family Pray for the Clementes as they work alongside leaders of the Taiwan FMC to reach the lost for God. Birthday: Sarah; Susan Yu, Taiwan, Associate June 6, Thurs. – Hungary Pray for ongoing discipleship and mentoring with new believers, either individually or in small groups. June 7, Fri. – Thailand, Don & Kathy Williams family Grace International School’s graduating was the largest in school history. Pray for these students as they follow God’s path for their future. Birthday: Don June 8, Sat. – Kenya, Roger & Deborah Varland family, Associate/VISA Roger and Deborah are teaching at Rift Valley Academy, a boarding school for missionary children in Kijabe, Kenya. Approximately 350 students in grades 7-12 attend this school. Pray Roger and Deborah positively impact their students.

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June 9, Sun. – FMWM Home Office, Garry & Pat Cruce Pray for creative and helpful insight for Garry as the Missionary Funding Coach. Pat assists Garry and lends support to the entire MRT. Pray their ministry provides help needed by the FM missionary team. Birthday: Garry June 10, Mon. – India As the FMC in India approaches a major milestone this October – becoming a General Conference of the worldwide FMC – ask the Lord to bless the celebration planning. Birthday: Jennifer Veldman, World Missions staff June 11, Tues. – U.S. Missionaries, Heavenly Treasures/ Associates/FMWM Pray for entire communities to be transformed as a result of the income from products sold through Heavenly Treasures. Birthday: Caroline Sakanashi; Patti Maurer, World Missions staff June 12, Wed. – Spain, Josh & Susy Fajardo family Pray many lives will be touched through the compassion ministries in Rivas and inner-city Madrid. Birthday: Josh June 13, Thurs. – Rwanda, Julie Yerger Julie requests prayer that Kibogora Hospital employees will have a desire to improve the hospital and provide better patient care. Birthday: Julie June 14, Fri. – Bulgaria Praise the Lord that three more churches have requested discipleship training by the FM ministry team in Bulgaria. June 15, Sat. – Burundi Pray for Hope Africa University and its mission to give Christian liberal arts training to Africans. Birthday: Art Brown, Associate/VISA June 16, Sun. – Chile Pray for the continued Christ-centered ministry of Comunidad Cristiana Casa Grande in Santiago, Chile. June 17, Mon. – Belgium Pray for the three groups that meet in Belgium. Pray for effective ministries and doors to open for new churchplanting opportunities. Birthday: Maria Long, Greece June 18, Tues. – Liberia Pray for the continued success of church-planting initiatives in Liberia.

June 21, Fri. – Nepal Pray for effective training to equip FM leaders in Nepal. Also pray new believers among tribal peoples in isolated mountain valleys would be discipled and encouraged in their faith. June 22, Sat. – Portugal Pray for the Lord to continue to bless the ministries helping to meet many needs in Portugal: youth ministries, a food bank and programs for the homeless. June 23, Sun. – Haiti, Russ & Sherrie Cole, Associate/VISA Pray for Russ and Sherrie Cole as they carry out practical ministries in Haiti. Russ secures supplies for incoming VISA teams and maintains mission equipment in Port-au-Prince and Dessalines. Sherrie runs a guest house in Port-au-Prince for visiting teams. June 24, Mon. – Hungary, Jerry & Jan Coleman Pray for summer ministry programs which provide outreach and connections to new people during the summer months. Birthday: Jan; Russ Cole, Haiti, Associate/VISA June 25, Tues. – Ecuador Pray for the efforts of the new cell-based church in Quito. Pray this church reaches many lost people for Christ. June 26, Wed. – Rwanda Pray the newly-formed Better Together group of church and mission partners from the US and UK will have wisdom and insight as they give spiritual encouragement and are an example of Christian leadership to Rwanda church leaders and the hospital management team. June 27, Thurs. – Slovakia, Josef & Lynette Sykora family Pray for Josef and the ministry of the Cirkev Bratska Church. Pray Josef has wisdom to lead as senior pastor and helps the church grow spiritually and reach out to others. Birthday: Lynette June 28, Fri. – Egypt Pray for national leaders of the Egypt General Conference to have wisdom in leading this large group of Free Methodists – more than 27,000 members. June 29, Sat. – Nigeria Pray for peace, unity and growth in the Nigeria FM Church. June 30, Sun. – Cambodia Praise the Lord for the missionaries serving in Cambodia sponsored by the Asia Pacific FM Missions Association. Pray for grace on behalf of each member of Cambodia’s multicultural team.

June 19, Wed. – Mexico, Brian & Laurie Yost family Lift Laurie in prayer as she leads Bible studies and builds relationships with women. Birthday: Laurie June 20, Thurs. – Malawi Pray for the Malawian FM leadership to sense God’s help and strength as they begin to oversee the Great Commission Bible School and Malawi’s International Child Care Ministries program.

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encouragement for bringing young children on short-term missions. Writing from personal experience, Richardson shares the opportunities her daughters had to actively participate in service during a family trip to China. She gives parents step-by-step instructions how to prepare spiritually and practically before taking the family to an international mission. She even includes a Spiritual Gift Inventory for evaluating each person’s individual gifts and talents. For anyone who is considering taking their children overseas, this book is a great resource for encouragement, preparation and settling back home. Don’t Forget to Pack the Kids is available through Amazon.com. The author’s website www.jillmarierichardson.com contains a discussion guide and interactive sessions with the author.

Women’s Leadership Summit “Released … Into My World,” a Women’s Leadership Summit, will be held June 7–9 on the Spring Arbor University Campus (Spring Arbor, MI). Women’s Ministries International (WMI) President LaWanda Bullock says the summit will feature women who “have overcome the challenges that were before them; instead of seeing impossibilities, they saw opportunities.” Speakers will include Dr. Linda Adams, International Child Care Ministries director; Mrs. Susy Fajardo, missionary in Spain; Dr. Delia Nüesch-Olver, Latin America area director; and others. Exhibits will include representatives of global service organizations. The event also includes workshops, swimming, Zumba and fellowship. “It’s a leadership summit, but we are all leaders,” LaWanda said. “Some are on the platform, but every woman is a leader in her own right.” Summit costs vary depending on lodging, meals and the time of registration. More information is available online at fmchr.ch/ wmisummit. Register online (fmwmi.com) or call 800-342-5531, ext. 306.

Tributes Mrs. Dorothy Orcutt Hicks June 23, 1921 – December 17, 2012 As a registered nurse in Africa, Dorothy Orcutt Hicks treated tropical diseases at Rwanda’s Kibogora Hospital from 1966 to 1986. Services were held Dec. 21 in Marshall, MO. From 1951 to 1961, Dorothy served in Burundi with World Gospel Mission. After 10 years, Dorothy returned to the

U.S. In 1966, what Dorothy thought would be a short term assignment at Rwanda’s Kibogora Hospital, ended up being a 20-year career with FMWM. Dorothy worked as a nurse in surgery and the delivery room, but was also responsible for several outlying dispensaries and never seemed daunted by her tasks, even when she delivered a baby in the middle of a road. Ordained in the Rwanda Conference, her first circuit as an assistant pastor had six preaching points. Dorothy often worked with the churches’ lay pastors and preached whenever she could visit. In 1986, Dorothy retired from missionary service, but not from God’s work. She was pastor of the Sedalia FMC, MO, and later served in a number of local church roles. In 1989 she married Rev. Forrest Hicks, who preceded her in death (January 1999). Missionary Sheila Etherington writes, “Dorothy was my mentor when I arrived at Kibogora for the first time in 1983 and became a friend and great supporter to me. She had a scripture verse for almost every situation. I thank God for Dorothy and her example.” Retired pastor John Van Valin wrote, “Dorothy was a ‘saint in shoe leather’ if there ever was one. A triumphant pioneer for the gospel, she exemplified a compassionate heart coupled with an unreserved commitment to minister in Africa.” Miss Elizabeth (Betty) Ellen Cox February 10, 1918 – December 29, 2012 Betty Ellen Cox was involved in translation and literature work in Africa for 42 years. A memorial service was held at the Spring Arbor FMC, MI, Jan. 7, 2013. Betty Ellen first sensed the Lord drawing her to missions while in high school, but she felt she had no talents. God said to her, “Even though you can’t sing or make a decent speech, you do like to learn foreign languages. I could use that.” Finally, she sensed great peace. After four years of ministry to Japanese youth and their families in California and two years teaching in Michigan, Betty Ellen sailed for Burundi, Africa, in October 1944. While other missionaries helped Betty Ellen learn the language, there were basically no printed materials to study. Betty Ellen became a primary school principal and about a year later, was asked to write a grammar of the Kirundi language for other missionaries. Other writing or translation projects followed. She later learned Swahili and used French. In 1965 Betty Ellen was approved as a full-time literature missionary. Her translation work expanded to include a Kirundi-English dictionary, Kirundi Bible translations and concordance, pastors’ study courses, Sunday

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school quarterlies, and books for church membership. In 1980, Betty Ellen transferred to Rwanda where she learned Kinyarwanda and with a national helper, completed the Kinyarwanda translation of eight Theological Education by Extension books and the Free Methodist Discipline. In 1986 Betty Ellen retired, but continued numerous writing projects. In 2008, increasing demand for her dictionaries prompted the Marston Memorial Historical Center to publish these online. Frank and Carol Ogden, retired missionaries, write, “We were both privileged to serve alongside this amazing lady. At her retirement ceremony at Kibogora, it was remarkable to see Betty Ellen seated between Bishop Noah of Burundi and Bishop Aaron of Rwanda, both of whom she had taught as school boys. What a legacy to the FM church she has left in these countries!” Betty Ellen wrote or translated 66 books during her missionary career and more than 30 after her retirement. Mrs. Linda Crandall November 11, 1939 – December 31, 2012 Linda Crandall and her husband, David, were missionaries in Rwanda and Burundi for eight years (1978-1986). Services were held Jan. 5, at Greenville FMC, IL. While Linda taught high school French, David completed his medical internship, was drafted by the United States Army and sent to Vietnam. Following David’s return, the couple served a short term assignment under Volunteers In Service Abroad (VISA) at Kibogora Hospital, Rwanda, to explore if missions was God’s will for them. They arrived in 1974. During this time, God clearly impressed that Africa was what He had in mind for David and Linda. Even the fall and death of their 2-year-old son, Jeffrey, did not keep them from choosing to return to Africa. On May 7, 1978, Dr. and Mrs. Crandall were commissioned as missionaries to Burundi. Arriving on the field in late 1979, Linda taught their three children: Julie, Jennifer and David. (Jonathan was born later.) She also served as station hostess and assisted with bookkeeping and miscellaneous tasks at Kibuye Hospital. In 1985, the Burundi government began refusing visas for many missionaries. While the Crandalls visas were renewed, they felt it was time to leave Africa, although with mixed emotions. Even after they returned to an Army post, the Crandalls remained active in ministry and with the FM missions family.

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House Churches in the Middle East

An Urban House Church by Pastor Dustin

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Church in a School? by Pastor C, IME Executive Director

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ouse churches are usually small groups that meet regularly in homes for worship, prayer, Bible study, encouragement and evangelism. Sometimes situations suggest other options. Let me give you an example from a country currently troubled by unrest, uncertainty and insecurity. One of our leaders found a “man of peace” (Luke 10) in the midst of a small city. This gentle man is a director of a private school, located on a large campus near the city center, of several hundred students. The leader asked the school director if he would invite friends and neighbors to his home to hear the Bible read. Instead, the director invited them to come to the school at a time when it was empty of students and staff. He set up a classroom with tea and cookies, and even set up tables with decorative cloth. Twelve people showed up the first night. They were well-educated, well-dressed, and all ages and genders – a wonderful cross-section of the community. When asked why they came, one older gentleman answered, “I heard the Bible was going to be read here tonight, and I just wanted to hear it.” It was wonderful! I know. I was there! Six months later, I had an opportunity to revisit this “house church in a school.” More than twice the original number of people were in attendance. All were excited about what was happening and about the outreach into their community. A house church in a school? It could happen. It did!

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he rain began to pick up as we made our way through the narrow streets of a workingclass neighborhood. The main market street through this borough was packed with people returning from work, and the market shops bustled with routine evening shopping. As our local house-church planter and I worked our way down the sidewalk, we noticed a group of friendly, familiar faces across the street walking the same direction we were. By the time our groups merged and slipped out of the market into a side alley, others had joined us. We greeted each other as we climbed up a dark stairwell and emerged into a large, sparsely-furnished living room of a second-story apartment. The hosts of this house church stood at the door, greeting each person and inviting them to sit in the chairs around the room’s perimeter. No one removed their coats, because, like most homes in this part of town, the only heat came from a small propane heater placed in the center of the room. Although this group had only begun meeting recently, their desire to grow in their relationship with the Lord had quickly formed them into a close and loving community. An older gentleman, whose face showed many years of hard life, sat next to me. This was his first time in a Christian meeting. His head draped with his keffiyah (a traditional head scarf worn by Arab men), he introduced himself to me and, after a little small talk, turned our conversation toward basic faith questions that were plaguing him. As our host served small glasses of strong Arab espresso, a traditional act of Arab hospitality, my new friend and I talked more about following Christ. Soon our leader welcomed everyone, opened his Bible, read from Psalms and then led us in several familiar Arabic worship songs. His lesson was simple, yet the faces around me showed deep interest and intrigue. After the lesson, a time of questions and answers demonstrated the eagerness the group had for spiritual growth. As we prepared to leave, someone spoke up to remind the group that many more in this neighborhood would come to know Christ over the next year and this group would multiply. He suggested we take a group photo so next year we could be reminded how something which began so small grew to impact so many. Throughout the Middle East, thousands of house churches like this one are meeting weekly. The Free Methodist Church is on the cutting edge of mobilizing house-church leaders to empower believers to reach their communities. Despite a continual lack of political peace throughout the region, the message of the Prince of Peace continues to expand. Despite the lack of freedom of religion in the Middle East, a freedom that comes only from God is spreading throughout the land. Much of this growth and expansion is not happening in traditional church buildings but is taking place in apartments, down back alleys in urban settings much like the one described in this story.

Free Methodist World Mission People | April – June 2013

Go to http://tinyurl.com/a5uwwth to support the underground house church movement or “above ground” church planting taking place in several Middle Eastern countries.

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Following the Plan by Rev. Steve Evoy (Asia Area Director)

I have been following the plan spoken of in the Scriptures, where it says, “Those who have never been told about Him will see, and those who have never heard of Him will understand.” (Romans 15:21 NLT)

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early 20 years ago, Lura and Sangte left their home and family in Mizoram, India, following God’s call to plant churches in the isolated Asian country of Nepal. They studied local languages and held evangelistic meetings in their home. In 2001, they organized their first church, a multicultural congregation of Nepalis and Tibetans – former Hindus and Buddhists. Back then Nepal claimed to be the world’s only officially Hindu nation. Christian baptism was illegal. But then in 2008, a huge change came: the authoritarian monarchy was replaced with a secular democracy. The transition was abrupt, but the pace of progress has been painfully slow. A history of radical isolationism, rugged geography and poor infrastructure keep Nepal on the list of the world’s poorest countries. Yet there is reason to celebrate: this is a season of unprecedented opportunity for the gospel in Nepal! And Free Methodists are responding to that opportunity. In today’s Nepal, Christians can worship freely – and registered churches can own property. God’s hand is visible in these changes; His Spirit is moving throughout the land. Under Superintendent Lura’s ministry, more than 5,000 converts have been baptized into the Free Methodist Church – and more than 80 new churches have been planted! Nearly all of these churches have

been planted in the lower foothills of the Himalayas. Most of the membership is Nepalese. There are exciting opportunities to plant more churches deep in the mountains – in remote Tibetan villages – where Superintendent Lura has completed a number of evangelistic journeys on foot. He is known and respected in the Tibetan communities: “Please send a pastor to our village,” one couple said to Lura. “He can stay with us and use our home for a church.” As the work grows, so does the need for resources. To participate in these amazing divine opportunities, finances are needed (you can give through Nepal’s Country Support Account (CSA). In addition, it’s time to build a Free Methodist ministry center in Nepal – a facility designed to help equip and oversee the courageous leaders God is raising up. With support from around the world, pioneering Free Methodists in Nepal will be able to keep following the plan: bringing the gospel to those who have never been told about God, so those who have never heard of Him will understand.

Go to http://tinyurl.com/aoz5xke to find out more about reaching the “Not-Us People” near and far. Go to https://give.fmcusa.org/nepal to give to the Nepal Country Support Account (CSA).

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$

Giving Makes a Difference Give to Free Methodist World Missions: 1. Send checks to FMWM, 770 N. High School Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46214

2. Give online at: https://give.fmcusa.org/

Please remember:

n Commitments are the way the Free

Methodist Church sends missionaries. (Commitments can be made at: http:/ fmcusa.org/fmwm/commitments)

n Commitments are to be fulfilled the way they are made.

❯ If an individual makes the commitment, the individual gives directly to FMWM to fulfill that commitment.

❯ If a church makes the commitment, the church gives through the conference or directly to FMWM to fulfill that commitment.

n An FM church receives credit only for

funds sent in by the church. Churches do not receive credit for individual giving sent directly to FMWM.

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Where Where JJesus esus w would o uld hhang t a u n o g out g o n u a t h by Michael Long

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Spring Arbor youth café night with Dr. Ken Brewer talking about the questions of life and philosophy. Pastor Jamin Bailey played music and drew a crowd.

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Free Methodist World Mission People | April – June 2013

n Greece, unemployment for those between 18 and 30 is more than 50 percent. The lack of jobs and looming economic collapse have left young adults without hope or a future. Many have left the country to start over in other nations with more promise. Those who stay in Greece occasionally turn to demonstrations, vandalism and violence to express their desperation. But most of the time, these young adults hang out at coffee shops – socializing, passing time and waiting for their world to get better. The Streetlights Youth Café in the center of Athens offers a positive alternative to the country’s negative situation. The café currently operates three nights a week, offering themed programs that encourage group activities and engage customers in an entertaining and fun evening. Although this coffee house ministry is very new, the expert use of media, technology and creative expression make the café a growing attraction. The inclusive atmosphere creates the environment for forming bonds among customers, many who come from diverse backgrounds. Streetlights is a safe place for young adults during Greece’s darkest times. Kali Long, a VISA missionary serving one year in Athens, loves the café’s relaxed and relational interactions and finds the coffee, tea and chocolate drinks, as well as cookies and cake, to be enjoyable creations. Kali, who is involved in this coffee ministry, has been able to draw upon her valuable experience working with her mother at the FM Thessaloniki bookstore café while she was growing up. If Jesus were to live in Athens today, He would probably hang out at the Streetlights Youth Café. Our prayer is that His Spirit will hang out there, setting the atmosphere to draw crowds and to help them find answers in Him.

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people Free Methodist World Mission

Vol. 117 No. 2

April – June 2013

Publisher Rev. David Roller Magazine Editor Paula J. Gillespie Graphic Designer Beth Winchell Missions Promotion Director Judy Litsey Subscription Manager Pam Sheads Free Methodist World Mission People (ISSN 1081-8898) is published quarterly by Free Methodist World Missions, 770 N. High School Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46214. Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, IN, and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to: Free Methodist World Mission People, 770 N. High School Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46214. Canada Publication Mail Agreement #40716549 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Station A, PO Box 54, Windsor ON N9A6J5 E-mail: [email protected]. World Mission People, a quarterly magazine, is available upon request. One copy per household, please. To be added to or removed from the mailing list, or to give notification of address change, contact: FM World Mission People, 800-342-5531

E-mail [email protected] Web site www.fmcusa.org/fmwm Phone 800-342-5531 Address 770 N. High School Road Indianapolis, IN 46214 Printed in the USA — Copyright 2013 All Scripture quotations taken from the New International Version unless otherwise indicated. Permission is hereby granted for readers to duplicate pages for free distribution. Readers outside of the United States may translate and republish articles at their discretion.

Moving? Change of address? Contact FMWM at 800-342-5531, ext. 236, or e-mail [email protected] with your address change. Remember to include your full name, old address and new address, as well as your current phone number.

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“Linda was a warm, caring, intelligent woman,” writes fellow missionary Connie Kratzer, “who was devoted to her Lord, Dave, and her beautiful children. She also had a great sense of humor.” Fellow missionary Martha Kirkpatrick writes, “I think Linda and I identified with each other in a way that few missionaries can and that is in the loss of a child on the mission field. I’ll never forget how I grieved for Linda when their son died. Then when our Beth died, I knew there was someone who understood how grief-stricken I felt. But we both pursued the path of obedience to God, even when we could not understand His ways. Our God is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living; we shall meet again in a little while.” Rev. Dr. Alton Gould June 1, 1922 – January 5, 2013 Missionary for more than 30 years in Asia, Rev. Dr. Alton Gould helped establish International Child Care Ministries by opening rooftop schools in Hong Kong. A celebration of Alton’s life will be held in Canada on the day he would have celebrated his 91st birthday - Sat., June 1. Converted in his early teens, Alton received a direct call to China soon after. In 1946 Al applied to the mission board, arriving in China in 1947. Just as Al was beginning to grasp the Mandarin language, the Chinese civil war broke out and he was forced to leave. Al returned to Canada in 1949, married Phyllis Joynt, a nurse, did general evangelistic work and pastored a church. In 1954, Al and Phyllis were asked to minister to the Chinese refugees who were escaping to freedom in Hong Kong by the thousands. In addition to organizing soup lines and temporary shelters, Al also began making evangelistic calls. In 1954 the Cheong Wah Church opened nearby. The government allowed churches and charity organizations to operate primary schools on the rooftops of seven-story resettlement projects. Al opened two rooftop schools. This program eventually paved the way for the FMC to begin a sponsorship program, International Child Care Ministries, established in 1966. Al mentored pastors and encouraged the development of Chinese leadership. By 1964, Al was serving as superintendent of 12 fulltime Chinese preachers, eight churches and two rooftop schools. From 1975 to 1979, Al relocated to Indiana and served FMWM as pastor to missionaries. Al then pastored several churches in Canada,

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retiring from formal ministry in 1989. Former missionary to Asia Loren Van Tassel writes, “When my wife, Sylvia, and I arrived in Hong Kong in November 1970, I soon realized that whatever Al did, he put all his energy, zest, thought, time and resources into it.” As a teen, Alton encouraged Rev. Derek Ho, former Hong Kong FMC superintendent, to be dedicated to God. Rev. Ho writes, “Rev. Alton Gould was a godly servant of God with a gentle heart. He was a good preacher that challenged his flock to love the Lord whole heartedly.” Rev. Raymond Wong, also from Hong Kong, writes, “Once Hong Kong was a mission field receiving missionaries, but now is a mission-minded, missionary-sending church. The Gould’s labor and life have been a great example to us.” Rev. Donald Vesey October 6, 1926 – February 1, 2013 Rev. Donald Vesey served through education and evangelism ministries in Latin America for 11 years. A memorial service was held in Ripon, CA, Feb. 15. Appointed in 1951, Donald and Claris Vesey arrived in Paraguay in 1952. Don supervised the entire evangelistic program in Paraguay, along with pastoring the mission church one year. He also started two preaching points, supervised the establishment of a church in Asuncion, taught in the Bible school served as mission treasurer and did some construction work. Unable to return to Paraguay’s damp climate after Don’s seminary studies, the Veseys were then appointed to serve the Mexican Mission in Nogales, Arizona. Don was teacher and dean at Nogales Bible School until 1959. Then he served as a teacher in the Seminary of Instituto Evangelico. By October 1959, the Veseys transferred to ministry in Santiago, Dominican Republic. As the conference evangelist, Don travelled the country extensively. Many of the evangelistic services were held in the open air with a loudspeaker connected to his jeep. Don developed a correspondence course for laymen who could not attend seminary. He also established a traveling bookstore with Bibles, hymnals and other Christian literature to sell to people who would never have an opportunity to enter a Christian bookstore. He also served as mission treasurer. In May 1963, Don returned to pastoral ministry in the U.S., serving several churches in California.

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Free Methodist World Mission People I April – June 2013 To update or cancel your subscription, contact (800) 342-5531, ext. 236 or [email protected]

There are now three cafés in three different districts.

c d i a L t i s e a s t C n afé a F

When in her early 30s, Yimmie received permission to leave Mainland China and join her husband in Hong Kong. She made that move seven years ago. Unfortunately, her husband died soon after she arrived. At that time, Yimmie had an 8-year-old daughter and her mother-in-law to care for. In Hong Kong, the chance of getting a job without having work experience is slim. Yimmie joined the Fantastic Ladies Café. Since her training, she has been able to support her family without receiving government assistance. She is so grateful she can be self-reliant now. “Thank you for the chance the Free Methodist Church has given to me,” Yimmie says. “It makes my life meaningful.”

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Fantastic Ladies Café opening ceremonies at Yuen Long Café.

Sylvia, age 54, is one of the chefs. A few years ago, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. The same year, her husband died. Sylvia was very depressed and lacked motivation. With the encouragement of an FM social worker, Sylvia joined the Fantastic Ladies staff in 2008 and started her new life as a chef. Today, Sylvia is a very capable trainer of other staff. She smiles with confidence. “I am so thankful for what the Free Methodist Church has done for me,” Sylvia says. “It must be from God.”

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Café was opened! With the third location opening in the Yuen Long area, this “social concern” project continues to develop and to empower women of all ages. The simple and elegant interior designs, quiet and comfortable atmosphere, and high-quality and reasonably-priced Western food have gained these cafés a good name in Hong Kong. Customers do not encounter overt evangelism or find anything obviously Christian about the cafés. However, the cafés are family-friendly places, where lovely cards with inspiring messages are available and the placemats identify the Social Services Division of the Hong Kong FMC as the operator.

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he Fantastic Ladies Cafés provide training to help unemployed and underprivileged women in Hong Kong enter the business world. Under the mentorship of social workers in the Hong Kong Free Methodist Church’s Social Services Division, women learn how to run a restaurant, build confidence, and become wage-earning members of society. This project started in 2007 with the first café opening in a shopping mall in the Tuen Mun area. After consolidating their experience in running a restaurant, project leaders obtained the concession to run another small restaurant in the Tsuen Wan Town Hall (the district for performing arts), and the second Fantastic Ladies

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by Polly Ho & Yolanda Tong, with Margaret Nelson