Listening to Your Neighbor
This article by Bill Ludwig originally appeared on MissioChurch.com
What if our neighbors know how they need to be loved better than we do?
What if the world doesn’t revolve around us? In spite of our grand educations and vast knowledge, could it be that the other humans within our sphere of influence might know their context better than us (assuming that we aren’t in the same context)? Know their hurts and frustrations better than us? Could it be that they might even know what they need…better than we do? If a major part of a leader’s role in the community is to define reality, how better to do so than to listen to the community?
Several years ago, I was in another part of the world with a group of folks who had been drawn to this particular place by a dream of helping the people there raise their standard of living by implementing a project that would supply them with a sustainable source of fresh, clean drinking water. It was exciting to think that right then and there, we had the capability and the capacity to improve the health and economy of the town significantly. We could eliminate their dependence on parasite-contaminated water. This would reduce the instances of malnutrition, digestive and skin diseases giving children a better shot at learning in school and a chance of growing up to be educated, wise leaders of their community. We were thrilled!
We spent a handful of days in this village by the sea, measuring and preparing the site for what would be an innovative desalinization plant. We scaled up and down the cliff face that would host the intake pipes, checking and double checking distances and angles. Our engineers were developing early drawings and materials lists. This thing was going to happen! We were going to become those guys that saved a generation of children from disease and diminished lives. I could just see the title of the book I would write about the experience and imagine all of the speaking engagements that would come from this very good deed!
As it happened, however, I was one of the only persons on this trip who spoke enough of the language of the town to understand some of the more important pieces of communication, like “The bathroom is over there…”(This made me popular!) This gave me a little bit of an advantage in sensing how the people in this village were feeling about the miraculous feat of engineering we were about to pull off for their benefit. At some point, late in that first week, I overheard one of the elders in the village inquire about the community center that we were going to build for them. She wanted to know why we were taking so many measurements and going up and down the cliff. I immediately felt that sinking feeling you get when you realize that you showed up for an appointment on a wrong day…or in the wrong place. I asked our host, “What is it that your friends think we have come to do here? She matter-of-factly replied “They can’t wait for the community center to be finished.” OOPS! It was then that I began to realize that our team and the people that we had come to “save” did not share the same understanding of what we were there to do. It was crushing. Furthermore, when we did come to mutual understanding, the village didn’t even want a miraculous and innovative desalinization plant. They had been living with bad water for generations, this had become normal for them. What they perceived to be the bigger threat to their village was the gradual loss of their cultural identity.
A hard lesson was learned. Sure, some of the issues we discovered was linked to a language barrier, but there was more. Adopting a posture of being a solution looking for a problem only works when you find a group of people whose felt need matches your solution. In my experience, this rarely happens. What is more likely is that we often make assumptions based on our preconceptions as much or as-well-as our observations and our actions tend to serve ourselves as much or as-well-as the other. We had not observed/listened well. We were largely serving ourselves by doing what we wanted to do. We had never really asked them.
What became apparent…eventually, was that if you listen to the person in front of you, they will tell you how to serve them. They know. Ask them. Trust them.
There is an old kung fu adage “When the student is ready, the master appears.” Meaning, when one is open to learning, one can learn from whoever is in front of them. Perhaps a corollary can be found here? “When the neighbor appears, the servant is ready.” To truly love our neighbor, we must first see them for who they are and love them enough to listen.

If you are planting a church or looking to expand your church’s ministry in your community, don’t take another step without listening to your neighbor first.
A glorious celebration unfolded on Sunday, May 18th in Medellín, Colombia, as twenty-three new believers declared their faith through baptism. This was more than just a ceremony; it was a vibrant expression of new life in Christ! The excitement of seeing these individuals step into a new life in Jesus is contagious. Each baptism is a powerful story of hope, forgiveness, and a fresh start, reminding us of the profound change that occurs when someone chooses to follow Christ. It's a beautiful picture of what it means to be part of God's family, and it underscores the vital importance of our role as members of Christ's body. Through our prayers, support, and willingness to share the Good News, we participate in these unforgettable moments of spiritual rebirth. The church in Medellín beautifully captured the spirit of the day with this powerful statement: "We have decided to follow Jesus! Today, we take a step of obedience and faith through baptism, knowing that there is nothing better than walking hand in hand with Him." This is why we serve, why we give, and why we pray – to see more lives embraced by the love of our Savior. Let us rejoice with our brothers and sisters in Medellín and be inspired by their faith to continue sharing the hope that only Jesus provides!  Scott Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners
In a powerful display of community and compassion, Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) and Summit Ridge Community Church recently joined forces to bolster Intended Hope Ministry in Benson, Arizona. For two weeks in May, dedicated volunteers from the Arizona Unit of MDS and Summit Ridge poured their energy into restoring a mobile home heavily damaged by smoke. This newly refurbished home is set to become the sanctuary for Pastor Louise Waller, beloved as Pastor Weezie, the co-director of Intended Hope. Intended Hope offers a critical lifeline: a secure haven for up to one year for women and children bravely navigating the aftermath of domestic violence. Pastor Weezie's vision extends far beyond immediate shelter. The ministry's expansive 40-acre property is slated to evolve into a thriving working farm. This ambitious plan will not only cultivate fresh, nutritious food but also provide invaluable job training, life skills development, and other essential services. The ultimate goal? To empower these women to heal, grow, and ultimately achieve lasting independence. Overwhelmed by the tangible impact of their collaboration, Pastor Weezie shared, "God is continuing to knock my socks off!" Her words reflect the profound gratitude and awe at the transformation taking place through the combined efforts of MDS and Summit Ridge. Even with more work on the horizon, Intended Hope is already providing a sanctuary for several women, a testament to the urgency and success of their mission. This impactful partnership between MDS and Summit Ridge Community Church is truly a blessing, bringing light and hope to those who need it most. Dan Acker Pastor, Summit Ridge Community Church West Regional Resource Coordinator
A spirit of unity and devotion recently filled the mountains of Colombia as Brethren men from across Medellín gathered for their Annual Men's Camping Retreat! It was inspiring to see every Brethren church in Colombia represented, coming together for a time dedicated to growth, connection, and renewal. This special retreat wasn't just about getting away; it was a powerful blend of recreation, delicious food, heartfelt fellowship, in-depth Bible study, and intentional prayer. This kind of gathering is important, and reminds us how God calls men together – not just for fun, but to build one another up, sharpen each other, and stand firm in the faith. The emphasis of the retreat was fellowship and prayer, but their vision extended even further. These men prayed for their churches, the communities they serve, their denomination, and the world at large. This retreat served as a powerful reminder of God's call for men to lead with God's strength and to be a vital force for good in every area of life. Our brothers in Colombia are setting a wonderful example for us all. We are called to be men of faith who actively support and pray for one another. What if our churches here in the U.S. were to follow this inspiring model? Let's consider how we, too, can gather our men, dedicating time for fellowship, encouragement, and deep prayer–for each other, for our local churches, for the communities we are called to serve, for the entire Brethren denomination, and indeed, for the whole of the world. When men unite in God's will, the impact can be truly transformative! Scott Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners
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
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
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
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 Church Commissions New Leaders, Emphasizing a Servant's Heart
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
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!