Brethren Global Partners Update - January 2021

 

Spain

David and Cecilia, along with their sons, Nicolás and Lucas, are still working hard to spread the Gospel message even though restrictions make it difficult. This update came from Cecilia on December 7th:

Every first week of the month we continue to have a week of fasting and prayer for our families, the church, the city of Coria and villages around. We finish Sunday praying for the persecuted church and with Santa Cena, although the latter we can not celebrate due to Covid-19 safety issues. We thank our sisters and brothers from different parts of the world for being part of this through their prayers and offerings. Sending all our love to each one of you and praying for blessings and for your lives.

You can send greetings to the Molina Family with an email to: dycmolina@gmail.com

Philippines

In November the church in the Philippines was dealing with a second major typhoon to hit that country during the season. The first was a super typhoon. It left many homes and businesses flooded and people in need. The second one was lighter, but brought even more rain and flooding. The Brethren churches were busy working with others to help their communities where ever they could. Even now, they ask that you continue to pray for the recovery from these typhoons.


As the country begins to open back up in the midst of this pandemic, The Brethren Church, led by Gary Castro, is slowly opening up for in-person services. They also continue to broadcast their services online for all who can’t get to church. Recently they held their annual planning meeting, looking ahead to their ministry during 2021.

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Paraguay

We continue to hear of amazing things happening in Paraguay. As I reported in July, they had started ministering to the small barrio of Ypani where they were feeding about 185 people daily. That number has grown to over 800 people as the need is so great. Extra funds were sent to them for this ministry. Also, I reported that because of the love of the Brethren from Asunción, the people of Ypani desired to have a church where they could gather to worship together. That is becoming a reality as they have received some land and they have started constructing a basic place for worship in their community.

                   

Additionally, the Brethren Church in Asunción has started similar work in Iuque (AyeUnKay). This is an area near the Asunción Airport. It is certainly an exciting time in the Brethren Church of Paraguay.

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Puerto Maldonado

Our Good Shepherd Orphanage had a special celebration for family and friends on Christmas. They were glad to be together for a wonderful meal.


Right now Italo needs our special prayers. His cancer treatment has been sporadic because of the pandemic. The results of that are that his extremities were swelling causing much concern. This was a report that came from Rebecca’s sister on December 30th:

“I just spoke to Rebecca. Italo is up and about today for the first time since he had so much swelling after Christmas Eve. They have tickets and appointments for Lima from January 5-13. Pastor Segundo’s wife will stay with Rebecca and help with the children. The two oldest girls will be studying for the next two months to try to recover their year’s losses. David is also continuing, trying to finish his course work. My impression is that things are looking up. Thanks so much for everything.” 

On January 5th Italo and David were finally able to travel to Lima. After having some tests, it was determined that his hemoglobin was low and that he was in need of a blood transfusion. Many friends in Lima came through by donating blood and helping to get what was needed. On Sunday, January 10 Italo got the PET SCAN. This message is from David dated January 12th: “Thank you all for your support and prayers, my dad had his blood transfusion yesterday, he’s feeling much better, also gave us positive answers regarding his cancer treatment.” Please continue praying for Italo, Rebecca, David, and the children in their care.

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Argentina

Our partners in Argentina had an amazing baptism recently. One member stated that it was a good start to the week. On a Sunday afternoon in December many took this step of faith, 18 in all. As the congregation of Ministerio del Redentor, they keep seeing the Love of God!

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Peru

Pastor Luis Angel Morillas and Elena Prado both held special Christmas events for children in Ticlio Chico and Pucasana respectively, and both were overwhelmingly a resounding success. The National Office and Global Partners Team was able to help with some financing for those events.



Pastor Luis Angel reports that he is mentoring a young lady into leadership for Ticlio Chico, so that should be an amazing bit of news and ministry in the coming months.

Sympathies extended to the Miranda Family

We received word that Gladys Miranda passed away on December 30, 2020. Gladys was the wife of former Brethren pastor, Gus Miranda, and the daughter-in-law of retired missionary Juan Carlos Miranda and his wife, Maria. Please continue to prayer for this family.

Colombia

Colombia has gradually been resuming some in-person ministries but continues to use the internet to reach people. Their technology has allowed them to broadcast worship and sermons by multiple people from different locations at the same time. Pictured are Pastor Marcelo Ferreri, Adriana & Adrian Castillo, and the worship team including Milena and Jana Ferreri:



The 2019-2020 National W.M.S. project was for the renovation project at the Medellin Brethren Church. It is being used to provide space for their children’s ministry. I am hoping to be able to share pictures of the work soon. At the end of the year, we had collected just under $5,400 to be sent to them for this project. Thank you for your generous giving to the Brethren in Colombia.

India

In the Fall we received news from the Kumars that sadly two of the village pastors had passed away, one was Covid-19 related and the other was not. These faithful servants of the Lord were Rev. Gabriel K.and Pastor George K. They will be greatly missed in their villages. I was also sorry to hear that the sewing teacher passed away due to Covid-19. Most of India is still locked down during this pandemic, and because of that, the government closed churches and orphanages throughout the country in the Fall. Nirmala was forced to send the children with their parents back to their homes. She used sponsorship funds to send to these families to help them during that time. As of today, the children have not been allowed to return to the orphanage because the government has yet to give the go-ahead to anyone. Students, such as Sudhir & Latha’s children (Sherill, Samuel, and Sunisha), are able to are keeping up with their classes online, but most of the orphan children do not have that capability. Nirmala is hopeful that the children will be able to return next month. They have opened the church for limited services in Rajahmundry. We would ask you to be in prayer for Prasanth and Nirmala. Prasanth has had several medical issues over the years which continues to slow his pace of life and personal ministry down. Sudhir says that none of these issues are Covid-19 related. He has diabetic neuropathy which is often slow and progressive in nature. While we pray for a full recovery, we recognize that our bodies are not designed to last forever. On a celebratory note, Prasanth and Nirmala recently celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary and completed their 51st year of ministry in India.

New Life Springs Forth in India on Easter Sunday

By Scott Soden • May 23, 2025
The joy of the resurrection echoed across Andhra Pradesh, India, this past Easter, as our Brethren partners celebrated the baptism of twenty-four new believers at the Rajahmundry and Visakhapatnam churches. What a powerful testament to the living hope found in Jesus Christ. Each of these individuals has embraced a transformational change, choosing to follow the light of the Savior over the multitude of deities in the Hindu faith. This courageous step, while filled with spiritual joy, often comes with real earthly consequences. For some, choosing Jesus means facing the painful reality of being shunned by their families and communities. Yet, in their baptism, these brothers and sisters have declared a profound truth: following Christ offers not only hope for this life, filled with His love and guidance, but also the eternal promise of life everlasting with Him. This beautiful event, occurring on Easter Sunday, is a vibrant expression of the resurrection we celebrate. Just as Christ rose from death to new life, these twenty-four individuals have risen to a new life in Him. Their baptism is a powerful reminder that the victory over death is real, and the hope we have in Jesus is a hope that transcends earthly trials and stretches into eternity. Let us celebrate their courageous faith and continue to support our partners as they nurture these new lives in Christ!  Scott C. Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners

North Central Brethren Gather for Golf Outing

By Ryan Smith • May 21, 2025
Thursday, May 15, started with overcast skies and a slight chill in the air. Despite these conditions, 19 "golfers" from the North Central region showed up at the Brookside Golf Course in Ashland, Ohio, to participate in the Lynn Mercer Spring Invitational. As the morning gave way to midday, the skies turned blue and the sun warmed the course. While it's not known if the improvement in the weather had any impact on the golf being played, those in attendance had a very enjoyable day, which concluded with a lunch and the sharing of golf course stories that were certain to rival those of the best golf pros. The North Central region hosts the Lynn Mercer Fall Classic and Spring Invitational each year. Whether you're a golfer or not, these are great times to gather with others from around the region and spend the day together. The Fall Classic will take place sometime in September or October; do plan to attend. Respectfully Submitted, Ryan Smith Director of Ministry Operations

Reaching Across the World: Our Renewed Connection with Malaysia

By Scott Soden • May 21, 2025
Across the vast oceans and many years, God is bringing the Brethren Church in the U.S. back together with our brothers and sisters in Malaysia. Even though we've been far apart in distance and time, God has been moving to reconnect us yet again. Churches in Penang and Johor Bahru are now working with us to build new friendships. We hope this will strengthen our partnership and also include our friends from the Brethren Church in the Philippines. This will create a wonderful link of churches around the world. The church in Johor Bahru reports that it has moved to a new building that is all on one floor. This makes it easier for older members who have trouble with stairs to participate. Their new location also has a garden where people can go to think quietly, pray, and meet Jesus in peaceful solitude. We hope to visit our partners in Malaysia early next spring. Pastor Paul Stanley and some Philippine Brethren Church pastors plan to go too! This trip is evidence of how God is bringing us together and will serve as an opportunity to strengthen our friendships. We can also see the great work they are doing in God's name. This reconnection reminds us that being part of Christ's church extends beyond our physical location and place in time. We are united across time and place, and as we move forward together across the world, we trust that this new friendship will help God's kingdom and blessing continue to grow.  Scott C. Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners

A River of Blessings: Jamie White Ordained as Elder in The Brethren Church

By Dan Acker • May 21, 2025
Against the stunning backdrop of the Wyoming wilderness, a truly meaningful event unfolded last week. During a fly fishing trip that brought together Brethren pastors in Casper, Jamie White was joyfully ordained as an Elder in The Brethren Church. The intimate service took place within the charm of a local lodge, where a distinguished group of Brethren Elders gathered to participate in this sacred occasion. Jim Miller, Tom Sprowls, Don White, Dave Stone, Miles Larson, Dustin White, and Dan Acker collectively laid hands on Jamie, affirming her calling and confirming her ordination as an Elder within The Brethren Church. The significance of this moment was further underscored by the presence of Bill Childress, Pastor at First Brethren Church of Gratis, Ohio, and Dustin LeMaster, a pastor at 5 Stones of Ashland, Ohio, who were there to offer their support and witness. Though the setting was informal, it did not diminish the profound importance of the office Jamie now embraces. Jamie's journey toward ordination was marked by diligent preparation and the affirmation of her gifts. Examined and approved for ordination by the North Central Region in 2020, the formal service was thoughtfully delayed due to the unforeseen challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and evolving opportunities in her ministry. Upon hearing of the long-awaited ordination, Drew Meziere, the Regional Resource Coordinator for the North Central Region, enthusiastically exclaimed, “It’s about time!” Jamie and her husband, Dustin, himself an ordained Elder in The Brethren Church, have demonstrated a consistent commitment to ministry since their time at Radial Church, a Brethren Church plant they lovingly established in Canton, Ohio. Their dedication to living out the Great Commission has taken them to diverse landscapes, from guiding fishing expeditions and hosting spiritually enriching retreats along the pristine rivers of Casper, Wyoming, to serving communities near the tranquil lakes of Cleveland, Ohio. In every context, their passion for making disciples has remained unwavering. It is this very adaptability and commitment to meeting people where they are that has deeply resonated with Summit Ridge Community Church in Tucson, Arizona, their current church home. Recognizing the unique and fruitful nature of their itinerant chaplaincy, Summit Ridge has wholeheartedly embraced Jamie and Dustin's calling to minister in unconventional ways to individuals who may not typically engage with a traditional church setting. Their work exemplifies a dynamic and evolving expression of faith, reaching beyond traditional walls to connect with people in the everyday rhythms of their lives. With heartfelt joy and anticipation for the impact of her continued ministry, we extend our warmest congratulations to Reverend Dr. Jamie White on her ordination as an Elder in The Brethren Church. May God's abundant blessings continue to enrich her life and empower her vital work! Dan Acker Pastor, Summit Ridge Community Church (Tucson, AZ) West Regional Resource Coordinator

Summit Ridge Community Commissions New Leaders

By Dan Acker • May 13, 2025
Summit Ridge Community Church Commissions New Leaders, Emphasizing a Servant's Heart

Lexington and Concord at 250

By Steven Longenecker • April 23, 2025
By the rude bridge that arched the flood, Their flag to April’s breeze unfurled, Here once the embattled farmers stood, And fired shot heard round the world. “Concord Hymn,” Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1836. This is true. The American Revolution was transformative. One hundred years later, poet James Russell Lowell celebrated the modest span as “era-parting.” As the Concord militia ran across the bridge chasing retreating redcoats, they ran from one era into another. This is also true. The United States was the first government founded on the principle that “all men are created equally.” To be sure, this noble concept was very imperfectly implemented, but nobody else, certainly not European monarchies, even pretended to believe it. On April 19 we rightly celebrate the 250th anniversary of Concord, the beginning of a war that led to American independence. But there’s more. The first shots were not fired across Emerson’s “rude bridge” but on Lexington Common. Here three British companies faced the village militia. Major John Pitcairn, the British commander, ordered the Massachusetts men to disperse. The militia captain, John Parker, seeing that his men were significantly outnumbered, ordered them to break ranks and leave. But before they could, somebody—we still don’t know who—shot, and the British spontaneously responded with heavy fire. Then, again without orders, they charged, shooting and bayoneting, including the wounded. Historians disagree over whether British officers encouraged the melee or futilely screamed for order. Almost certainly, however, redcoats cut down fleeing militiamen. It was more massacre than battle. This atrocity, not Emerson’s “shot heard round the world,” inaugurated a lengthy, difficult, brutal war. The War for Independence lasted eight years, the longest conflict in American history until Vietnam and now fourth behind Afghanistan, Iraq, and Vietnam. Civilians were targeted, casualties high, and prisoners, when taken, treated inhumanely. Lexington wasn’t the only time in the war when wounded and surrendering soldiers were assaulted; both sides did it, but more often the British. As people of faith remember Lexington and Concord, they can find three takeaways. 1. Injustice creates conflict. Identifying wrongs inflicted upon us comes naturally, but the call is to recognize injustice felt by others. The colonists had legitimate grievances: They were unrepresented in Parliament and taxed without their consent, a fundamental injustice. Logically, they demanded self-government. For ignoring American complaints, Imperial leadership lost some of its most valuable colonies, and its military endured high casualties. The lesson is that release for the captives and freedom for the oppressed are both the right thing to do—"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness”—and pragmatic because of the problems they solve. 2. Similarly, bad things happen when people stop listening to each other. Mostly, this falls again on the British. Even a few months after Lexington and Concord, independence was still not mainstream among Americans, who probably would have accepted something short of full sovereignty. How might the history of the British Empire evolved if it had listened and applied the Golden Rule? Tone-deafness cost the British severely. Likewise, may we remember that most arguments have two sides. The Empire’s anger over the extensive property damage caused by the Boston Tea Party feels legitimate. Refusal to concede that the other side has a point or two often has significant practical cost, in this case further widening the breach between the Empire and its seaboard colonies. This is not to say that Jesus compromised his values, but he lunched with tax collectors and sinners and, presumably, listened. 3. Wars are easier to start than to stop. This includes labor (strikes) and trade wars. The great conflict that started on Lexington Green lasted much longer than anybody thought. In fact, there was little deliberation. Tensions escalated and anger boiled until violence erupted, and once the floodgates of war opened, it took eight years and rivers of blood spilled before they closed. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they are not only the children of God but, in practice, they rescue society and, especially, innocents from the suffering of war. In the long run society is best served by peace (and justice). Do justice, listen, and make peace: Put together, these lessons from Lexington are foundation stones of Christian behavior, and they equip Brethren to be the salt of the earth in tumultuous times. Steve Longenecker is Professor of History, emeritus, at Bridgewater College (VA). Photo by Donovan Reeves on Unsplash

Southeast Shares and Celebrates at Regional Gathering

By Scott Soden • April 23, 2025
On Saturday, April 5th, churches and representatives from across the Southeast Region of The Brethren Church gathered at Windhaven Church in Mount Jackson, VA, for a powerful day of fellowship, prayer, and storytelling. Over 75 attendees, including 25 enthusiastic youth from several churches, came together to celebrate and share inspiring stories of how God is transforming their communities and responding to the urgent need for hope, love, and connection in these divided times. The gathering was a flurry of activity. Here are some of the highlights: During the morning, the youth poured themselves into a community service project; they assembled water bottles with socks, other essential items, and snacks for local homeless shelters. Chyann Mackey and Laura Waldron (Both of Mount Olive Brethren Church, McGaheysville, VA) shared their excitement about preparations for this summer's camp, now under the new name: Kairos! Their palpable enthusiasm left attendees eager to witness how God will use this initiative. Pastor Don White (St. James Brethren Church, Fairplay, MD) shared a powerful message about the importance of experiencing God's presence and living in both spirit and truth. St. James is growing and actively engaging in local ministry initiatives, primarily through the Women's Missionary Society (WMS) groups from collaborating churches—truly a remarkable story worth sharing. Sara Moore (Saint James Brethren Church) emphasized Brethren Academy's vital connection to the region and showcased current and former students who now serve as mentors or in ministry within their local churches. Looking for ways to grow your youth in Christ? Check out Camp Kairos, Engage Youth Conference (both this summer), and Brethren Academy this fall! Valerie and Micah Ceary from the Gathering Church (Hagerstown, MD) and Joe and Katie Turner shared updates through videos about their new church plants in Maryland, which are advancing in unique ways throughout the region. Pastor Lee Reams (Compass Community Church) highlighted his church's summer sports outreach they put on in cooperation with Eukarya Christian Academy in Stephens City, VA. Read more about it at https://www.brethrenchurch.org/compass-community-wraps-up-summer-sports-outreach . Pastor Todd Crowder and the team at Maurertown Brethren Church (Maurertown, VA) are inspiring witnesses through their work with inner-city kids. Hearing Todd's journey—starting with one child in his truck and expanding as kids sought connection and fellowship—was uplifting. Pastor Kent McKay (Canvas Community Church, Winchester, VA) discussed the importance of vision and mission in the recent merger. Canvas Community Church was formed from the merger of Canvas Church, a local non-denominational church, and our own Grace Community Church in late 2022. Now, less than three years later, a full one-third of the new congregation are new members to their congregation and were not part of either Canvas or Grace Community. This remarkable statistic is a testament to the efficacy of their outreach and the work of God in Winchester. Pastor Brad Reaves showed a video highlighting the impactful work in Guinea-Bissau, where they partner with One Child to use the Bridgely App to fund children's schooling. Additional highlights included a recap of the recent Regional Women's Retreat, celebrated as a resounding success, and updates from the Gathering Church in Winchester, VA on their substantial outreach to local homeless shelters as they celebrate their fourth anniversary this Palm Sunday. Pastor Simon Flint spoke about their Toddler-Time outreach at Muskoka Community Church in Huntsville, Ontario, Canada, which positively impacts mothers and families during the cold winter. Pastor Dave Stone shared in a video update how Sarasota First Brethren Church is recovering after Hurricane Milton damaged its building (read more about that at https://www.brethrenchurch.org/nappanee-brethren-repair-hurricane-damage ). During that same update, Dave Stone noted that their facility is used by seven Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous groups every week. What an extraordinary array of stories! God is surely at work, using the Brethren Church in remarkable ways. Please share the good news of what God is up to in your church and community at our MemoryFox page . We look forward to sharing more inspiring stories from your region as well!

Tucson First Brethren Celebrates Retirement of Roger Stogsdill

By Dan Acker • April 15, 2025
A Legacy of Faith and a New Chapter: First Brethren Church Celebrates Pastor Roger Stogsdill's Retirement and Welcomes New Leadership

Pasadena Centro Crista Celebrates Baptism

By Dan Acker • April 15, 2025
Joyful Celebration as Pasadena Centro Crista Welcomes Daniela Escobar Through Baptism

Cay Pombo Brethren Church in the Philippines Celebrates First Anniversary

By Scott Soden • April 9, 2025
On Sunday, March 23, the Brethren Church in Cay Pombo, Philippines gathered as usual to lift their hearts and hands in praise and worship to God, their Father. Yet that day was far more than a typical Sunday; it was a joyous celebration of God’s goodness and all He has accomplished in the church during its first full year of ministry. “As we celebrated our 1st anniversary, we're reminded that God has a plan to prosper us and give us a hope and a future. We're excited to see how He will continue to work in the lives of many through the JOFF (Jesus Our Firm Foundation) Cay Pombo Church. We've seen God move in amazing ways. We've witnessed lives transformed, relationships built, and how Jesus moves in everyone's lives, and yet, we know that this is just the beginning. We're trusting God to guide and direct us always. To God be all the glory! Happy anniversary, JOFF Cay Pombo!  As we celebrate this first year of ministry and Kingdom growth, may this moment inspire the church here in the United States and around the world to boldly witness for Jesus in our neighborhoods, communities, and nations. Amen!!! Scott Soden Coordinator, Brethren Global Partners
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