He bows His head and cries, " 'Tis finished, all is done, O God, receive my soul." Life's victory is won.
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Vol. 76, #3 Mar 2021
He bows His head and cries,
" 'Tis finished, all is done,
O God, receive my soul."
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Life's victory is won.
The Four-Pillar Mission
page 3
Monthly Sermon page 4
Biblical Basis for Church
Planting page 6
The Sending of Our
Missionaries page 6
ACCFS: Hide-and-Seek
page 8
Reclaiming Proverbs 31
page 46
Remembering Our
Spiritual Heritage page 66
The Light of Hope page 67
Correspondence
For April issue
(news from Feb 16-Mar 15)
To Our Readers Due: March 20, 2021
Winter and Spring
As this issue was put together, we find ourselves still in the grip of The Silver Lining
winter. Many correspondents noted this in their articles. Often they (USPS 496780)
pointed to the beauty of the white snow that surrounds us. For others,
this winter has brought added burdents due to the same weather. And for Published Monthly for the Apostolic
many, it was noted that they are ready for spring to come. Christian Church of America by:
Spring is coming! We look forward to the warmer weather, new Onward Media
growth, and celebrating Easter. We ponder the suffering of our Saviour on 651 E. Peoria St.
the cross and his resurrection from the grave. There the aweful price was Goodfield, IL 61742.
paid for our sins, and the victory of salvation is achieved.
It is through this event that we can have our sins washed pure and Periodicals Postage Paid at Goodfield, IL
white as the snow of winter. After that cleansing, we see the growth of and at additional mailing offices.
new life in Christ. As the fruit comes, we ponder and rejoice again at the
victory he has won. Counselors:
Jeff Grimm, Greg Lehman
In Christian love,
Rick and Michelle Kaisner, Silver Lining Editors Official Apostolic Christian Church
Website: www.apostolicchristian.org
Send correspondence only
(no payments) to:
editor@acsilverlining.org
(email is preferred)
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Front Cover: Annonymous
Back Cover: Sis. Heather Knapp, Chicago, IL
2 SILVER LINING March 2021
Writings based on God’s Word
Light from the Word
The Four-Pillar to set at liberty them that are bruised. than the parable of the Prodigal
Mission - What To preach the acceptable year of
the Lord.”10 While the particulars
Son, who is so loved by his father?
And how could this be more
the church is sent of each individual mission differ perfectly enacted than when Jesus
(whether nurturing children in the forgives the woman, a sinner, who
to do. home or building homes in the bathed his feet with her tears and
Then said Jesus to them again, wake of a disaster), the objectives are dried them with her hair, assuring
“Peace be unto you: as my Father unvarying. Just before his ascension, her “Thy sins are forgiven. . . Thy
hath sent me, even so send I Jesus taught his disciples, “All power faith hath saved thee. Go in peace.” 13
you.” And when he had said this, he is given unto me in heaven and in
breathed on them, and saith unto earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all • Nurture: To teach and nurture
them, “Receive ye the Holy Ghost.”1 nations, baptizing them in the name the believers toward a sanctified
To encounter God, to be of the Father, and of the Son, and life and to faithfulness by God’s
animated by the Holy Spirit, is of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them grace and through his Word.
to be compelled into mission or to observe all things whatsoever I Jesus’ nurturing of the
sent.2 Noah lays aside his earthly have commanded you: and, lo, I am disciples is woven throughout
occupation and is sent to preach with you always, even unto the end the Gospels but seems especially
repentance and build the Ark,3 of the world. Amen.”11 This “Great poignant in John 21 as he gently
Abram leaves his father’s home Commission,” is our universal corrects Peter over a campfire
and is sent to Canaan,4 Moses responsibility both collectively as the on the seashore, strengthening
leaves his father-in-law’s flocks and Body of Christ and individually him for his role as an Apostle.
is sent to deliver the Hebrews,5 as children growing up into the The thrice repeated question,
Peter and Andrew lay aside their “measure of the stature of the fulness Peter, “ lovest thou me?” 14
nets and are sent to become fishers of Christ.”12 echoes down through time
of men,6 Paul abandons his place As a brotherhood, we have and proves each of our hearts.
of power and is sent to preach to found it helpful to think about our And yet Jesus gives even more
the Gentiles,7 and so on. Indeed, mission within four pillars. In this nurturing – he gives himself as
Christ laid aside his own estate,8 article, we will simply restate these living bread for our journey.15
and was sent that we might know pillars and offer a few illustrations
God and so receive eternal life.9 demonstrating how closely they • Contend: To preserve sound doctrine
When we are espoused to Christ are tied to Christ’s own sending. by “contending for the faith.”
and anointed by the same Holy Jesus boldly claims, “I am the
Spirit, we, like the Good Samaritan, • Proclaim: To present to the lost way and the truth.” 16 He confounds
are called to lay aside our earthly the gospel message of salvation his adversaries who dare ask him
cares and join in Jesus’ divine based on faith in the shed no more questions,17 and speaks
mission “to preach the gospel to the blood of Jesus Christ and a true with an astonishing authority,18
poor. . . to heal the brokenhearted, repentance and conversion. not derived of Moses, but of the
to preach deliverance to the captives, What more beautiful picture Father who has sent him.19 And yet
and recovering of sight to the blind, of the gospel message can we find — Please turn to pg. 60
March 2021 SILVER LINING 3Monthly Sermon
Sermon by Bro. Matt Oesch, It’s interesting in the New Testament – and we’re
Alto, MI going to read about this – what happened on the Feast
of Weeks after Jesus was crucified and resurrected. Let’s
May 31, 2020 open together in the book of Acts, Chapter 2. We’re
going to talk about what this is and what happened
Acts 2 & Exodus 32 in the historical event, but at the end of the day, the
idea that I would like us to gather around is that the
Greetings to each one. Welcome those that are here and coming of the Holy Spirit of God to this earth, this new
those that are listening online. It’s a blessing to have covenant made through the Spirit of God, is a primary
an opportunity to worship God this morning. We’re concept within Christianity. It’s as important, in a sense,
thankful that as we think about worship and fellowship, as the crucifixion and as the resurrection. We have a big
we have fellowship in two ways, both physically and in holiday and a special service on Good Friday. We have
the Spirit of God. Today is 50 days since Passover. It’s a special service on Easter Sunday. You know, of these
49 days since the resurrection of Jesus, and so today, holidays, these days that we celebrate, Pentecost is right
we celebrate and remember the day of Pentecost. That’s up there with the others. It is as important, and I submit
going to be the theme of our worship service this to us, as practical in application to our lives, as is our
morning as we gather our hearts together and unite celebration of Good Friday and the forgiveness of our
in the Spirit around the word of God and truths of sins through payment on the cross and as critical as the
Christianity. These truths are just so encouraging. They resurrection of Jesus in that his new life is through the
are the truths that on which our lives are established and power of God that raised him from the dead. This same
built, and they give us hope, vision, purpose, joy, peace, idea as Pentecost is in the coming of the Holy Spirit as
and the happiness that God ultimately wants us to have. the Spirit of God himself makes his dwelling within a
The word Pentecost is actually a Greek word. It person, within a human being.
refers to a feast, an ancient feast, that was established by So, let’s just read together from Chapter 2 in the
God at Sinai. Actually, it was kind of on the Israelites’ book of Acts.
journey through the wilderness to Mt. Sinai that the “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come”
Feast of Weeks was established. The Feast of Weeks (v1). So, you’ll recognize this Greek word ‘Pentecost’
was one of the primary Jewish feasts, and the reason which means ‘fiftieth’ is used here. “The day of
it’s called that is because it’s seven weeks after Passover. Pentecost” meaning the Feast of Weeks. “When the
In Hebrew – I don’t know the exact pronunciation – [Feast of Weeks] was fully come, they were all with
‘weeks’ is Shabbat. It’s the Hebrew word for sevens, and one accord in one place” (v1). Now, this refers to the
so it means seven sevens, or 49 days, after the Feast disciples that post-ascension of Jesus were gathered
of Firstfruits which is on the Sabbath after Passover. together in Jerusalem “with one accord in one place.
Seven weeks after the Feast of Firstfruits is this Feast ”We’re going to end our reading there at verse 21.
of Weeks which was intended to be communicated as Let’s stand for prayer.
a celebration of the harvest and, traditionally, the end I just encourage all of us today to consider the
of harvest. This Feast of Weeks was celebrated and constant presence of God. God is invisible. We don’t
recognized by a priest offering two loaves of wheat bread see him. God’s not an idol that we can go to and see
unto the Lord. and touch, but God is present. God is ever present.
4 SILVER LINING March 2021He is here with us today, and more so than just kind in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost
of present in a general sense. He is present within the part of the earth.” You’ll be witnesses. The purpose
heart of the believer, and he is close. He has purpose. with which the Holy Spirit was there was to carry
If you take something away from the day, let it be the message, to be witnesses that the people of God
an awareness that he is present. Let’s carry within our were endued, or filled with, the Spirit of God. God’s
mind’s eye and consider in our heart that God is with people would be witnesses unto the uttermost part
us every moment. Let’s hold to and cling to the idea of the earth. As it says in Chapter 2, they heard their
that he is with us, his presence is powerful, and it’s words in their own languages of the wonderful works
abiding. He is here and in us, speaking and moving and of God. The wonderful works of God. That is the
teaching and counseling and comforting us. If we kept purpose of the Holy Spirit.
that constant idea, he would work power in our lives, As we think about Pentecost, what was the unique
and it would be meaningful. It would work something thing that happened? Let’s back up. We know that in
in us every day. We would feel him. That is today’s ancient history the Jews were dispersed in two major
encouragement because that is the promise of Pentecost. dispersals out of Jerusalem and Israel into countries
The promise of Pentecost – this Christian life throughout the world. The first one happened when
– is more than just about Jesus who came, shed his the northern kingdom of Israel was dispersed – fully
blood, died, resurrected, and went to heaven leaving dispersed – by the Assyrians. It was God’s will that
us alone to kind of figure this out. He didn’t leave us they would be dispersed throughout the world. The
alone. He says that explicitly to his disciples in John second one was the Babylonian dispersion in Jerusalem
14. He says, “I’m not going to leave you alone, but and Judaea later on. The Jews were carried out of
I’m going to give you my presence forever continually Jerusalem into Babylon, and from Babylon, the Persian
with you.” He said his presence within us and in our empire took over them. This Persian empire spanned
lives has purpose and works purpose. It has meaning the known world, I guess you’d say.
and purpose to us each and every day of our life. It It’s interesting that as Luke is recording this, he
did not just have purpose one time. deliberately states that, as a result of this Feast of Weeks,
The gospel of Jesus is not just a gospel that’s for there was this multitude joined together at Jerusalem
one person for one time, but it’s for every person to celebrate. There were Jews out of every nation under
and every moment of our lives. In every situation, heaven. I find it interesting that Luke uses that word –
the gospel of Jesus is meaningful, and the message is every nation under heaven. So, these people from every
constant, continual, and always the same. It’s always corner of the world, with all languages, are hearing in
the same message and never a different message. their native language through the power of the Spirit
Then the Holy Spirit of God, constantly abiding in one message: the gospel plan of salvation.
us, will continually communicate to us that message Think about the contrast between the old
from him and this purpose that we have as was covenant, given only to the Israelites, and this new
described here in Acts, chapter 1. covenant. The old covenant was to the children
In Acts 1, verse 8, Jesus – right before he ascended of Israel, the children of Abraham. This new
– gave his last words to his disciples: “But ye shall covenant extends to all languages, all nations.
receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: The power in that and the unity that is a reality is
and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and — Please turn to pg. 61
March 2021 SILVER LINING 5And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus...
– Colossians 3:17
Ministry Program Updates
The Biblical Basis for Church Planting
Church Establishment Committee
Often, we hear the term, “church planting”, and it “ministry of evangelism and discipleship that results
invokes thoughts about starting a new church. The in the establishment of new churches."2
topic is much deeper, however, and in this brief
article, we will explore three questions. What is Is Church Planting a Biblical Idea?
church planting? Is church planting a biblical Simply because a phrase is popular does not
idea? Why does church planting matter for the mean we automatically embrace it. We want
Apostolic Christian Church today? The purpose to be discerning Christians. While the term
of looking for answers to these questions is not “church planting” is not found in the Bible, that
academic or abstract. We are disciples of Jesus Christ alone is not necessarily a reason to say it is not
who love Him and desire to walk in obedience to His biblical. Words like “Trinity” and “missionary”
Word. We want to know His will and His priorities. are not in the Bible, but they represent concepts
If we learn that church planting is important to and truths that are clearly supported in God’s
Jesus, then it will matter to us as well. Word. Going to the New Testament, we see
that Jesus likened evangelism and the spread
What is Church Planting? of the kingdom of Heaven to sowing seed (e.g.,
While the concept of starting churches isn’t new, Mark 4:3, 26, 31). The theme of “planting” is
the term church planting has surfaced within used by the Apostle Paul in connection with the
Christian movements in the last few decades1 church in 1 Corinthians 3:6-9. The building
and to date has not been widely used within our and establishment of the church is God’s work,
Apostolic Christian denomination. For the purpose but He uses people as His co-laborers to plant
of this article, let’s define church planting as the and water and gives the ultimate increase.
The Sending of Our Missionaries Missionary Support
While many of the positions in our denomination and sometimes through the Word and sometimes
are elected (elder, minister, Sunday school teachers, through the church. Regardless of how he talks to us,
etc.), missionaries are not. In the case of missionaries, once he’s talked it’s important to follow his prompting.
we ask our brethren to “self-appoint,” trusting Local Church Support: As a Brother or Sister’s
individuals to step forward in response to God’s call. spiritual authority, we ask elders to take an active role in
Instead of a vote, we have created a four-level process the sending process. We encourage candidates to meet
in which to affirm that call. often with their elder, seeking counsel and support.
A Candidate’s Calling: One of the first questions HarvestCall Support: If there are unresolved
the Missionary Care Director will ask someone issues in a person’s life, we know they will resurface
inquiring about service opportunities is “Do you feel on the mission field. Because of this, HarvestCall uses
direction from God?” The Holy Spirit directs people in both assessments through ACCFS and an interview
different ways; sometimes through a still small voice, team to better understand where a candidate is at
6 SILVER LINING March 2021A major biblical theme that relates to church all things that He commanded, is carried out in
planting is God’s redemption of a people for His the context of local churches. New believers need
glory.3 We learn that the “church” is God’s redeemed communities where they can grow and live out their
people, meant to carry out His mission in the world new faith. This is demonstrated in the book of Acts;
and display His praises (1 Peter 2:9-10). God’s people wherever the gospel was preached, new churches
are commanded to be a light to the Gentiles for usually sprang up as a result (e.g., Acts 11:19-26). The
salvation unto the ends of the earth (Acts 13:47). In Lord added to the church those who were being saved
Revelation 5:9 and 7:9, God’s ultimate purpose for (Acts 2:41, 47).
the church is fulfilled as He is worshipped by the The centrality of planting new churches is also
redeemed out of every kindred, tongue, people and seen in the life of the Apostle Paul, whose passion
nation. Clearly, God’s desire is to have the gospel was to preach the gospel where Christ had not been
preached in all the world and churches established named (Romans 15:18-23). It seems he did not
among every people group. consider his work complete in an area until there were
Other biblical reasons can be given for church healthy churches established that could evangelize and
planting. One is Christ’s love for the church and His reproduce. For examples of these kind of churches, see
commitment to build it (Ephesians 5:25-27, Matthew Acts 13:49, 19:10, and 1 Thessalonians 1:8.
16:18). The church belongs to Christ and is precious to
Him, and those who labor in planting new churches Why does Church Planting Matter for
engage in a work that is dear to His heart. The the Apostolic Christian Church Today?
Scriptural mandate4 for church planting is inherent Church planting is not a biblical directive, but it
in the Great Commission laid out in Matthew 28:18- is an expected and necessary biblical result of souls
20. Christ’s command to make disciples of (“teach”) repenting and becoming converted through the
all nations, baptize them, and instruct them to obey — Please turn to pg. 59
spiritually, emotionally, and must provide a “green light” in order
02
Local Church relationally before sending. for someone to be sent. While not
Do you have the support
of your elder and the Ministry Fit: At times a everyone who steps forward for
Direction church family you are
presently serving with? person may feel directed towards missionary service lands where they
of God
Are you confident a certain mission, yet there may first expected, it is amazing to see
that God is opening
not be a current opening or need how God uses the journey for his
01 03
this opportunity?
for the individual’s skill set. We glory. Sometimes, the journey was
desire a candidate to take a trip to a test of willingness and a person
HarvestCall that ministry. This allows them is redirected. Other times, doors
Have you worked
to interact with missionaries open more slowly than expected.
04
through the
HarvestCall
Mission assessments currently on the ground as well as Regardless of how things unfold, we
Are you a fit for a role at and interviews?
the ministry you are
intending to serve?
better understand the culture into have confidence that God is working
which they would be moving. in all of our Brothers and Sisters
Conclusion: All of these levels along the way! – by Amber Miller
November
March2021
March 2016 SILVER LINING
2021 3
7Hide-and-Seek
When my kids were young, we played a lot of the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the
hide-and-seek. They loved it! The kids would shrill right hand of God…”. The work of Christ on our
with glee as I counted and they scampered to their behalf does the deep-cleaning shame requires. Christ
respective hiding cubbies. Then, on the prowl, I set took our shame. Wonderfully the Gospel unties the
out searching, announcing my approach with songs, shame knot. Through repentance and confession, we
chants and threats of tickles. Inevitably, as I neared, I give up the hiding place and welcome the seeker to
would hear giggles. With no interest in throwing me find us. That seeker is God. After all, God is not the
off course, they would give way their hiding place.
They squealed with delight. The delight that rises not
from remaining hidden, but from being found.
Young children welcome reception and shun
isolation. But as we grow older, we learn to welcome
the secret. Isolation is a strange comfort and we
become very good at finding cubbies to hide in.
Hide-and-seek is an ancient game. Very early in
the biblical narrative Adam and Eve played hide and
seek. They went hiding, God went seeking and they
did not want to be found.
Why do we do this? Why do we want to keep out
of sight? Why do we avoid at all costs the exposure of
ourselves to others? The answer is summed up in one
word – shame. Shame is the belief you are so flawed
that if people knew that flaw you would be rightly
rejected. It is easier to hide than to be found.
It is important to note that shame was not part
of God’s perfect creation. In Genesis 2:25 we read
“And they were both naked, the man and his wife,
and were not ashamed.” Prior to the fall Adam and
Eve lived lives of complete openness, but that soon
changed. With sin, Satan saddles humankind with
the propensity to hide from God’s sight and the sight
of others. He re-writes the declaration that God
pronounced over his created mankind, “these created
ones are very good” to altogether another narrative, God that drives us into hiding; He is the God that
“these created ones are very bad.” Shame strikes at draws us out from hiding. Christ’s action towards us
the heart of our worth. confirms our worth. He announces over us again,
Welcome, then, is the good news of Jesus. He “these created ones are valuable.”
took on shame and defeated it. In Hebrews 12:1 we One would think that because of Christ,
read “who for the joy that was set before him endured Christians would not hide anymore. But this
8 SILVER LINING March 2021is not true. Believers hide with the best in the acceptance of us. This requires an environment
game and sometimes are the best at the game. of safety. This requires an environment of love.
Fearing condemnation from people, the believer This requires an environment of care and such an
who struggles tows the line and hides behind the environment lies at the heart of what it means to be
pleasantries that win acceptance. Meanwhile, our family. Family lies at the heart of what it means to
struggles make a meal of our spiritual, emotional, be a church.
and relational wellbeing. Watch a mother or a father care for their children.
Parents receive their children and sniff out shame
wherever it rears. Consider the following places the
church receives its own and scrubs out shame:
• Loss: We lament together over the losses we incur.
• Fears: We encourage one another at the point
of our fears.
• Lies: We speak truth to one another, upsetting
the lies we believe.
• Hurts: We walk with each other to shed the
hurt that with time turns to bitterness.
• Sin: We correct one another by supporting
God’s loving guilt while dismissing Satan’s
hateful shame.
Yet for many, these areas of our lives remain
hidden — skillfully stowed away. An art mastered
from years of playing hide-and-seek. But for any who
are willing to receive the other as Christ received us,
a different end is in store. The joy of a child, who is
glad to be found and set free.
ACCFS has numerous resources to assist
someone as they interact with and help others.
Our relationships can range from formal
mentoring situations to the informal, encouraging
conversations we hold nearly every day. Resources,
discussion aids, and sample accountability
While Jesus is the answer to our shame, He questions can be found on our website at www.
employs the church in scrubbing the shame from accounseling.org/mentoring. In addition, our
our lives. Remember, shame is the belief you are so Mentor Training presentations can give practical
flawed that if people knew that flaw, you would and skills regarding helping others. If you would
should be rejected. Thus, untying this knot requires like more information, please contact ACCFS at
people know our flaw and confirm their love and (309)263-5536.
March 2021 SILVER LINING 9Congregation Updates
Apostolic Christian As the name suggests, the others creates the possibility of joy
LifePoints Gospel Sing centers around using and comfort, but also heartache
www.aclifepoints.org songs to praise God and the work and pain. Thankfully, we (my
@aclifepoints on Facebook or he is doing here at LifePoints. wife and I) gave ourselves to the
Instagram However, this event is also much mission and did our best to love
Ashlyn Gramm-Mission more than just an evening of and connect. It’s very humbling
Communication Coordinator music. It’s a chance for us at when I consider all the great
“Because thy lovingkindness LifePoints to say thank you to all relationships we formed over this
is better than life, my lips shall who support our mission, whether span of time. I’m also thankful
praise thee. Thus will I bless thee that be in prayer, financially, or in that those relationships can
while I live: I will lift up my service. Ultimately, the Gospel Sing continue beyond the boundary of
hands in thy name.” Psa. 63:3-4 is about praising and worshipping where we work.
Join us virtually or in person God for his provision and blessings The other reality that washes
on Saturday May 1 as we praise on our agency and those we serve. over me as I reflect back is how
God for his lovingkindness at We would love to share in this my vantage point has changed
the annual LifePoints Gospel evening with each of you! over time. Although unconscious,
Sing! We are excited to spend the More details can be found on I came to Gateway with a sort
evening celebrating LifePoints’ our website, and questions can be of “jug and mug” mentality in
50th Anniversary and listening to directed to agramm@aclifepoints. which I would attempt to pour
the musical talent of the Covenant org. May God be glorified! from my “jug of knowledge” into
Chamber Choir! The Covenant a young person’s “mug”. Through
Chamber Choir is dedicated to Gateway Woods Apostolic those attempts, I quickly realized
creating excellent choral music as Christian Children’s Home another truth called universal
an offering to our Creator and a Clint Plattner — Former Foster brokenness which says, “I don’t
ministry to others. They perform Care Case Manager know what’s wrong with you, but
a wide variety of Christian choral It feels very surreal to realize I know something is wrong with
music, including hymns, anthems, how much life I have spent at you.” While I attributed this truth
and spirituals from the renaissance Gateway Woods as I wrap up my to the youth we were serving,
era to modern day. employment. I remember one of over time, I learned it applies to
This year, the Gospel Sing my first Sundays at Leo church, everyone, including myself.
will be held as a hybrid event – a Bro. Brace Wieland told me, “20 Our first role was
livestream of the evening will be years ago, we moved to Leo for 2 houseparenting and it brought
available on our website, but there years”. It seemed crazy then… and me face-to-face with parts of
is an option for a limited number to now it feels equally as crazy to be myself that I would’ve been fine
attend the event in person at the Five able to relate to that comment. not ever meeting. And yet, this
Points auditorium in Washington, As I reflect back, a few things became what I would come to
IL. If interested in attending, tickets come to mind. First, I learned value most about being part of
must be reserved in advance on our early on that to love at all is to this mission: growth. I began to
website: www.aclifepoints.org be vulnerable. Connecting with see that we are all on this path of
10 SILVER LINING March 2021maturity. Granted, I’m further Foster Care Case Manager. For and make sure that you are on
down the road of life than others more information, please see our mailing list. If you would
and therefore have something to our ad in this month’s edition like be added to our mailing list,
offer, but the reality is we are all of The Silver Lining or visit the please contact us at 888.443.4283
on this journey, just in different Careers page on our website at or send an email to info@
stages. This helped me not look at gatewaywoods.org/careers. gatewaywoods.org. Finally, if you
others in judgment, but rather see • We are searching for a Summer would like to receive a monthly
myself in kinship with them. We Volunteer Coordinator for email detailing how the work
all need redemption and we all are 2021. Please contact Bro. Keith at Gateway Woods is bringing
in a process of growth. God have Schambach at keith.schambach@ help and healing to those in
mercy when we get this wrong. gatewaywoods.org for more need, please consider joining our
While it will be a difficult information. This is a great Restoring Hope email list. You
change to not be as connected to opportunity to impact the lives of can do so at gatewaywoods.org/
what has become like family to the children on our campus! newsletter or by emailing jon.
me, I now leave with lots of warm • We are also searching for our ringger@gatewaywoods.org.
memories. I also leave with lots of Summer Education Intern. Please
difficult ones, but mostly I leave contact Bro. Brock Williamson at Alabama, Athens
with a sense of gratitude to have brock.williamson@gatewaywoods. Lisa Aschliman , Kristy Moore
been a part of a place where I org for more information. This “He that hath my commandments,
could grow and live out what God is a great opportunity to and keepeth them, he it is that
had placed within me. gain some experience while loveth me: and he that loveth me
News: impacting our residents! shall be loved of my Father, and I
• We look forward to hosting • We also are looking for our will love him, and will manifest
our Virtual Rep Meeting on GW Farms Summer Intern. myself to him.” John 14:21
March 6th. We are thankful This is a great opportunity to I hope this verse brings
for the overwhelming support work directly with residents as encouragement to stand firm
from our reps even though we you plant and harvest bountiful in Christ and hold on to God’s
can’t meet in person. gifts from the garden. Please commandments. It is one that
• We are thankful for Sis. Amber contact Bro. Eric Bahler at stood out to me from a study on
Ehnle (Goodfield, IL) who gwfarms@gatewaywoods.org obedience, as it seems society
recently joined Maple House as for more information. around us continues to muddle
their new assistant houseparent. You are an important advocate the line of right and wrong.
• We are also thankful for Sis. to help us spread the word about We would like to thank Bro. Jeff
Bethany Plattner (Leo, IN) who God’s work at Gateway Woods. and Sis. Heidi Bahler (Wolcott, IN)
will be joining Gateway Farms as Please continue to lift us up for making the effort to come and
our new Gateway Farms assistant. in prayer, check our website serve our congregation on the pulpit
• We currently have these gatewaywoods.org and our for our monthly rotation. We always
openings at Gateway Woods: Facebook page at facebook.com/ enjoy having visitors down south
Assistant Houseparent, and a gatewaywoods often for updates, and spending time with y’all!
March 2021 SILVER LINING 11We ask for your continued cease speaking or teaching the name “And when they had prayed,
prayers for Sis. Carolyn Lewis as of Jesus. They were unable to agree the place was shaken where they
she continues to battle the effects to that condition, of course. They were assembled together; and
of cancer, and for Shawn Ray and challenged the rulers whether they they were all filled with the Holy
his health issues. We also ask for ought to obey man or God. This Ghost, and they spake the word of
prayers for Sis. Clarann Lynn, event occurred early in the disciples’ God with boldness.” Acts 4:31
as she was recently diagnosed ministry. They were changed from We were blessed recently by
with a second form of cancer (she cowering, fearful fishermen who the service of visiting ministers. We
recently was in remission). fled when Jesus was arrested to bold appreciate the Word shared by Bro.
We are continuing to prepare witnesses of the Gospel message Klint Beyer (Sis. Kara, Sabetha,
for our ALive event over Memorial after his Resurrection. KS), Bro. Brent Kellenberger (Sis.
Day Weekend (May 29-31). Should After they were released, the Beth, Kansas City, MO), and Elder
circumstances arise that would disciples returned to their friends Bro. John Lehman (Sis. Carol, Bern,
require cancellation, a decision will and family – their church – and told KS). Last month we reported Bro.
be made by April 15. Registration them what happened. The church Daniel Knochel was baptized into
is open via www.ALiveAlabama. then lifted up their voices in praise to our fellowship and was engaged to
com, along with any information God and prayed a psalm of victory be married to Sis. Lexi Stoller from
regarding the event. by God’s mighty power. Then they Gridley. Soon after that article was
As always, we would love asked God to pay attention to the submitted, Daniel was involved in a
to have y’all visit, even if you threats that were leveled at them, single-vehicle accident that resulted
are traveling through for the and to grant them boldness to speak in serious injuries. We again have
evening! For our guest house his word. It strikes me that they did the sacred privilege of intercession,
accommodations, please call Sis. not pray for more freedom of speech, and we expect the Holy Spirit will
Rebekah Klaus at 815.674.5411. or for the power of those leaders answer as clearly and powerfully
to be lessened, or for the enemies as he did the early disciples. Please
Arizona, Phoenix of the Gospel to be destroyed or pray with us and with the Knochel
Marge Lindenbaum silenced. The prayer itself was bold and Stoller families for a complete
“And now, LORD, behold their in asking God for boldness to recovery, in the perfect timing and
threatenings: and grant unto thy continue to preach the Gospel and will of the Lord.
servants, that with all boldness they be empowered to perform the good We mourn along with the Bro.
may speak thy word,” Acts 4:29 works that Christ initiated. Bill Woodruff (Sis. Kathy) family
This passage was read in church This needs to be our prayer in the passing of Bill’s mother.
recently, and it seems relevant to today. I have been inclined to ask May the Holy Spirit comfort them
our day. Peter and John had been God to decrease the power of his and bring to mind many happy
arrested and imprisoned overnight, enemies, to enlarge the influence memories to replace the sadness.
then tried for speaking and acting of his people – to make it easier We are enjoying our winter
(to bring healing) in the name of for me. I am admonished that I visitors and praise God we can
Jesus. The rulers were unable to need, rather, to ask that I can be still gather and fellowship with
identify any crime or any way they bold in the face of threatenings all our loved ones. As this article
could punish them because they to speak the Word and allow the is being submitted, a large part of
feared the people, who believed they Holy Spirit to work through me in our country is experiencing severe
witnessed a miracle. They wanted to whatever way he sees fit. winter conditions and we are
silence these men. The disciples were Finally, observe how that praying that all who are affected
freed under the directive that they prayer was answered! remain safe and well.
12 SILVER LINING March 2021Arizona, Prescott California, San Diego this is a season to rejoice in, these
Autumn Rokey Sarah Fulop beginnings trigger moments of
We have been blessed with "In the beginning God created the apprehension and sorrow of old
many visitors in this new year heaven and the earth." Gen. 1:1 chapters ending. I am thankful we
and it reminds us how important "In the beginning was the Word, serve a God that loves us so deeply
the extended body of Christ is to and the Word was with God, and and understands every emotion, joy
our spiritual life. Satan can easily the Word was God." John 1:1 and irrational fear we experience.
isolate us. When we come together The above verses were quoted He is with us in every season, every
with fellow believers, we can be by Bro. Denny Fulop in his first transition and will carry us to the
encouraged in our walk of faith. ever sermon, fitting verses for his end of our time on this earth.
“For where two or three new chapter in life. Our church Speaking of beginnings,
are gathered together in my had the joy of welcoming Bro. Bro. Brian, Sis. Annie and big
name, there am I in the midst Denny Fulop (Sis. Allison) and brother Jaye welcomed our newest
of them.” Matt. 18:20 Bro. Phillip Petrovic (Sis. Tasha) church member: Vienna Skye
Thankful for visiting to our pulpit ministry this month. Wagenbach on February 19. So
ministers Bro. Todd Graf (Sis. This labor of love is greatly thankful for the healthy arrival of
Lydia, Akron, OH), Bro. Brent appreciated, especially after two this precious miracle.
Kellenberger (Sis. Beth, Kansas years of seeking God’s direction We are so grateful for the
City, MO), and Bro. Brad Metz in delegating leadership. Thanks many prayers and support on
(Sis. Karen, Bloomington, IL). to Elder Bro. John Wiegand and behalf of our congregation this
Elder Bro. Mike Lehman for past month. As the Apostle Paul
Arizona, Tucson leading us in this transition. says, “Grace be unto you, and peace,
Dean and Jackie Knobloch In his sermon, Bro. Denny from God our Father, and from the
We are still meeting Fulop encouraged all of us to trust Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Cor. 1:3
on Sunday and every other God with our beginnings. Jesus is I’ll end on a verse that has been
Wednesday evening via Zoom. our alpha and omega and will be a real encouragement to me this
We were blessed to have Bro. with us through every season of life. past month. I hope it is a reminder
Troy Metzger (Sis. Gwen, Just as we should trust God with of God’s grace and peace in this
Lester, IA) minister to us. our beginnings, we need not fear messy, beautiful thing we call life.
We appreciate his efforts in endings either. Death is swallowed “To every thing there is a season,
bringing us the Word. We were up in victory by the cross. and a time to every purpose under
reminded that SIN can mean The theme of beginnings has the heaven: A time to be born, and
Self Indulgence Now and that been on my mind a lot. Not only is a time to die; a time to plant, and
is why God abhors it and we my family navigating our brother a time to pluck up that which is
should flee from it. Denny becoming a minister, but planted; A time to kill, and a time
We are thankful to welcome we are also welcoming a new to heal; a time to break down, and a
our friends Micah and Elizabeth sister-in-law: Sis. Desiree Sinn time to build up; A time to weep, and
Fehr and daughter Catalina to (Silverton, OR). After almost a a time to laugh; a time to mourn,
Tucson. They have moved from year of the unexpected loss of our and a time to dance;” Eccl. 3:1-4
Morris, MN and we are looking sister, we are thankful that God
forward to getting to know them has provided a companion to our Colorado, Denver
when we are able to gather again brother-in-law, Bro. Todd Gasser Jenna Hartter, Rebekah Stoller
in person for church services. and a mother to our beloved niece The last few weeks have
Juniper (Smithville, OH). While brought colder weather and more
March 2021 SILVER LINING 13frequent snowfall to Colorado. We Our thoughts and prayers are Florida, Fort Lauderdale
are thankful for the moisture and with Matthew and Kara Stanley Renee Mangold
for the winter visitors who have and their family with the passing of We are thankful for several
fellowshipped with us on their way Matthew’s brother, Patrick Stanley. visiting ministers this past
to the mountains. month. Visiting were Elder Bro.
Tom and Teresa Katanic have District of Columbia, Randy Gudeman (Sis. Becky,
announced their intention to Washington Francesville, IN), Elder Bro. Earl
give their testimonies before the Henrietta Meyer Ringger (Sis. Dixie, Gridley,
church of how God has worked As I write this, I look out on IL), Bro. Dan Stoller (Sis. Deb,
in their lives the last few years. snow and ice. I hope by the time Remington, IN), Bro. Ryan
We look forward to hearing you read this, the weather has Bertsch (Sis. Jessica, Bluffton
from them and are thankful warmed. May we always trust the North, IN), Elder Bro. Kevin
that they are assembling with us Lord to provide no matter what it Ryan (Sis. Cheryl, Rockville,
again after many years living in is like outside. CT), Bro. Dan Beer (Sis. Deb,
various other states. We are also This month our visiting Milford, IN) and Bro. Rick
praying for Tom as he recovers (virtual) ministers were Bro. Kaisner (Sis. Michelle, Chicago,
from a concussion. Jerry Isch (Philadelphia, PA) IL). We pray for a blessing on our
and Bro. Mark Leuthold (Lester, Lord’s servants.
Connecticut, Rockville IA). With many of our snow We had a small, quiet,
Heidi Beutel, Kim Schneider and ice storms happening on worshipful Communion service.
As a congregation, we are weekends, we are thankful for We are appreciative of this
thankful that COVID-19 the technology allowing us to precious time that we could once
guidelines have allowed us to open gather yet staying safe. again experience.
church capacity to 200 people. This month we said goodbye Congratulations to Bro.
What a joy it is to worship, see, to Sis. Adriene Kaehr as she is Ben and Nelly Mangold (Bro.
and commune with many we have returning to the Bluffton area. Matt and Sis. Jennifer Mangold,
not seen in almost a year. We We extend our sympathy to Roanoke, IL) on the birth of
are thankful for the “increase in Sis. Krystal Tyler at the death their first child Carter Mangold.
numbers” and patiently wait for of her father Bro. Dale Tyler Bro. Ben and Nelly are stationed
the time when we can once again, (Remington, IN). in Germany and so great
all gather together. We rejoice with Bro. Phil and grandparents (Bro. Mike and Sis.
We rejoice with Aaron and Mona Steffen at the birth of a Renee Mangold) are grateful for
Jacqueline Hills in the birth of granddaughter, Arya Kelley, born virtual visiting. May God bless
their son John (Jack) Everett Hills. to Delaney and Andrew Archer. Carter and watch over him his
Grandparents are Bro. Scott and If you are planning to visit whole life.
Sis. Luanne Hills and Jorn and Washington, D.C. area for vacation We are delighted our church
Arlene Pickett. or business, please contact Sis. has been surprisingly full. We
We continue to hold Bro. Henrietta Meyer at 703.904.8301 are still able to space every other
Ben and Sis. Christy Carlson or hmeyer2831@gmail.com for bench with families sitting
and their dear family up in our assistance, to let us know how together and masks are still
daily prayers as their precious many to expect for Sunday services required. We are having morning
daughter, Teagan, continues to and to find out if, when and where service only with no lunch or
undergo treatment. May God be services are to be held. Sunday school.
their strength.
14 SILVER LINING March 2021Florida, Fort Myers Georgia, Peachtree City Board member, Bro. Rich
Addison Steidinger, Carrie Elise Funk, Brenda Stoller Bertschi, spent time with us
Steidinger Once again, we have been this past month. We also are
The beautiful weather has very blessed this month. Our blessed by the arrival of Bro.
brought many vacationers to our congregation has had two Brandon and Sis. Katelyn
area this past month. Ministering to engagements. We rejoice that Sis. Kaehr (Bluffton, IN). They
us were: Elder Bro. John Laukhuf Ashlyn Waldbeser (Elder Bro. Tom have come to share their talents
(Sis. Marcia, Latty, OH), Elder and Sis. Sue) is engaged to Bro. Ben with the mission on a short-
Bro. Kent Heimer (Sis. Jan, Taylor, Pfister (Bro. Dan and Sis. Sherry, term assignment. Bro. Brandon
MO), Bro. Clint Schmidt (Sis. Bluffton North, IN). Also Drew is assisting with facilities
Magdalena, Winthrop, MN), Bro. Waldbeser (Elder Bro. Tom and maintenance and repair and Sis.
Damon Knobloch (Sis. Stephanie, Sis. Sue) is engaged to Elizabeth Katelyn is providing a variety of
Morris North, MN), Bro. Jeremy Penland (Tom and Joy Penland). mission support activities during
Leman (Sis. Shara, Forrest, IL), Bro. Rocky Steidinger (Bro. their stay here.
Matthew Wulf (Sis. Tara, Morris, Philip and Sis. Lana) and Caleb Bro. Rick Aberle had
MN), and Bro. John Rassi (Sis. Knapp (Bro. Matt and Sis. opportunity to travel back to
Heather, Tremont, IL). Dana) have given their hearts the US this past month to spend
to the Lord in repentance. time with his family. We are
Florida, Sarasota May they all feel the peace and thankful for safe travels for
Sandra Kaeb direction of the Holy Spirit. all during this time as Haiti
God’s word was shared with us It is always a joy to have continues to experience political
this month by Bro. Jason Huber visitors, and we thank Bro. Seth turmoil. This makes travel
(Sis. Joy, Leo, IN.) Hartter (Sis. Brenda, Burlington, challenging as road blocks and
Our prayers are for Bro. John IA) for challenging us in the Word. protests frequently occur.
Krstec and Bro. Todd Hebert Church services were held in
as they both spent time in the Haiti, Bonne Fin - Bonne Fin for the HarvestCall
hospital. Bro. Glenn Ott has Hospital Lumiere missionary family here in Haiti. It is
been waiting for a lung transplant Rick and Komari Aberle always a refreshing blessing to share
and we’re thankful that one has Greetings in Jesus’ name the Word and worship together.
come through. His surgery was from Bonne Fin! Our past month Missionaries from Torbeck and Les
successful, and he is doing well. has been unique as new travel Cayes were able to attend.
Our prayers will continue for him restrictions regarding COVID-19 Please continue to pray
and his dear wife, Sis. Mardell, for have been implemented in both for direction and guidance for
the days ahead. the United States and in Haiti. the mission here. The lack of
The beginning of February, We are very thankful that there missionary candidates for open
our sisters started meeting every are continued avenues to travel as positions continues. The board
Tuesday for comfort knotting. we have need. is diligently seeking God’s grace
Our Sunday school silent auction We welcomed our first team and direction for the next steps for
and Butter Braid benefit was in some time during the past continued operation of the hospital.
February 13. Thankful to all who month with the presence of a The grave situation presents
participated and donated to our South Carolina orthopedic team. difficult decisions. We trust that
Sunday school children. It was a The visiting medical professionals God will lead those decisions in a
blessing to all. served many in the hospital in manner that glorifies his name.
need of care.
March 2021 SILVER LINING 15Haiti, Les Cayes conference with the theme, Jenna Ehnle (Bro. Steve and
Mike and Susie Walder Flourish, in early February. We are Sis. Karen) and Marissa Endress
Greetings from Les Cayes! The grateful for those who presented (Bro. Ben and Sis. Katie) have
last few years our get-togethers and taught us ways to help our found peace with God. They look
in Haiti have been few and far marriages flourish. forward to baptism and becoming
between. So it was very special to We mourn with Bro. Larry a part of the body of Christ.
be invited to Bonne Fin recently Mariani (Sis. Jeannine); who lost Bro. Chad, Sis. Joanna,
and spend an afternoon there his mother, Imogene, on January Adrienne, Asher, and Shiloh Joos
worshipping God and sharing a 22. We also grieve with Sis. welcomed Eva Naomi to their
meal with all who could make it. Peggy Ifft (Bro. Gary) and Sis. family on February 9. Thankful
It was so special that we even took Cindy Schieler (Bro. Darl), whose grandparents are Bro. Ralph and
a group photo. mother, Sis. Elsie Rager, (Latty, Sis. Jenny Joos and Bro. Nathan
This month we are enduring OH), passed away January 29. and Sis. Sherrill Stoller.
the season of Carnival, Haiti’s In our last local church Bro. Brad Gudeman (Sis.
biggest celebration that is held over newsletter, we were reminded to Teresa) underwent a partial knee
several weeks. These vibrant, lively pray and encourage those who are replacement. We are thankful
festivities always culminate with Fat early in their walk with Christ. We that God’s healing hand has been
Tuesday, commonly referred to as are so thankful to see God’s work evident in his recovery.
Mardi Gras. This also happens to be in these souls and pray for many We appreciated Bro. Neil
the day preceding Ash Wednesday, more to come to know our Savior. Stoller (Sis. Luann, Princeville, IL)
the Catholic holiday marking the “…there is joy in the presence of ministering to us recently.
start of the Lenten season. the angels of God over one sinner
As people are getting their fill that repenteth.” Luke 15:10 Illinois, Champaign
of sinful pleasures before they have Brent Young
to give them up for a period, we Illinois, Bradford We are grateful to Bro. Andrew
pray that our God who is rich in Becky Endress, Lena Stoller Rassi (Sis. Sandy, Morton, IL) for
mercy would touch their hearts “So we, being many, are one body visiting on a Wednesday evening
with a deeper conviction about in Christ, and every one members and preaching the good Word.
their sin. We pray that Haitian one of another.” Rom. 12:5 We sorrow with Bro. Oliver
people everywhere would forsake We all have our place in the Kuntz as well as our friend Garrett
their lives of sin and idolatry and body of Christ. Both in physical Conaty, both of whom lost a
seek the true and living God. and spiritual capacities, we can grandfather recently.
“The Lord is not slack concerning find joy in serving one another. The investment by our young
his promise, as some men count We appreciate those who recently group in our Sunday school students
slackness; but is longsuffering to took on new roles in our church has always been a great blessing.
us-ward, not willing that any body: Bro. Fred Hausmann (Sis. With adjustments for COVID-19,
should perish, but that all should Sue) as trustee and Bro. Nathan the young group offered Valentine’s
come to repentance.” 2 Pet. 3:9 Stoller (Sis. Sherrill) as usher. Day baby-sitting and hosted the
It was a blessing to gather for Sunday school students for an
Illinois, Bloomington our annual Comforter Day. Many afternoon of sledding as well.
Kinsey Dotterer, Lauren comforters were completed for The young group has also
Zimmerman those in need. Whether we can created a number of ‘good
Our church was blessed to sew or not, we all can do our part, Samaritan kits’ to distribute to
host a regional ACCFS marriage and much can be accomplished. anyone in need, particularly those
16 SILVER LINING March 2021begging for assistance at various In early February, we resumed and Sis. Deanna for your support
street corners in our area. There in-person Sunday services. It to him and traveling along!
have been more of these needs was wonderful to be together We received word of the
in our community and it is quite again after worshiping virtually passing of Bro. Chuck Mogler
helpful to have a kit to hand since early November. Starting (Sis. Bev, West Bend, IA). He is
out with useful items, a New in February and continuing the brother of our Sis. Bev Knapp
Testament, and Gospel tracts. through June, we plan to take the and the late Sis. Joan Rudin
I have been thinking recently second and fourth Wednesday (Bro. Gerald). Our hearts go out
of the song ‘Springtime in Glory’ evenings to study and discuss our to Sis. Bev as she has had to say
(by Luther G. Presley) and brotherhood’s Guiding Principles. goodbye to two of her siblings in
remembering lessons I learned from This will take place virtually, and recent months. What a comfort
a dear friend in college who studied the remaining Wednesday evenings that assurance of meeting again
agronomy. He often viewed God’s will be regular in-person services. someday is to us.
creation through our agricultural Our initial discussion went well, Sis. Wilma Walder (Bro.
seasons of dormancy, planting, and we look forward to exploring Charles, dec.) and Sis. Dorothy
and harvest. Having lived both further in the coming months. Walder (Bro. Dale, dec.) also had
in Arizona and Illinois, I can Bro. Levi and Sis. Kyann to say goodbye to a sister-in-law.
testify that October in Phoenix is Wuethrich and their daughter Solvi, Sis. Delores (Walder) Miabach
like February in Champaign: the are moving to Smithville, OH. We (Bro. Jack, dec., Rittman, OH)
weather is bearable, but everyone will greatly miss them in Chicago, passed away. She is fondly
is ready for a change. I find myself but we rejoice with them for their and well-remembered in our
literally praying for spring and after opportunity to be near family. congregation as this is where she
considering it, I believe it to be a Bro. Clyde Kuntz (Gridley, grew up and lived for many years.
worthy prayer. The dormant fields, IL) passed away in February. He We have recently received
the bitter cold, and the hope of was the grandfather of Bro. Brian two great blessings on the same
spring that seems so distant remind Vercler (Sis. Amber) and Sis. Laura Sunday! We began our noon
us of our hope of that eternal Lindberg (Bro. Mark). Our hearts lunch, which was a great joy! And
‘Springtime in Glory’, Verse 2: mourn with their family over this we also heard the announcement
Useful and happy, none loss, especially as it follows the that converts CJ and Bonnie
will ever grow old recent loss of their grandmother, Sis. Fransisco are ready for baptism
Out in that lovely land so fair Wilma Kuntz. We pray for God’s on April 10-11. We are looking
That land where there is no comfort in their time of sorrow. forward to sharing that weekend
suffering from hunger or cold with you, CJ and Bonnie!
It is springtime forever there. Illinois, Cissna Park Bro. Hartzell and Sis. Denise
Denise Kaeb, Louann Kaeb Kaeb and JD and Angie Jennings
Illinois, Chicago To begin our month of were greatly blessed by the arrival of
Diana Eisenmann February, we were blessed to have another grand-daughter. Sweet Layla
Over the past month, we held Bro. Matt Steffen (Sis. Deanna, Joy Jennings was born to Ben and
several virtual events including our Princeville, IL) speak to us on our Anna Jennings, (Collinsville, IL).
monthly Bible study, a Women senses and especially the extra As I write this article, I can
of the Word devotion on “Jesus sense that we have that comes hear the birds chirping outside
in the Jewish Feasts,” the Annual from Jesus and our walk with him. and the sun is melting the snow
Officer’s Meeting, and the Annual Thank you Bro. Matt for your on the sidewalks and road. It has
Business Meeting. thought provoking presentation been so bitterly cold that one may
March 2021 SILVER LINING 17think spring will never come. It was a wonderful, encouraging was selected as our new secretary,
May we remember that “He hath evening! We were reminded replacing Bro. Roger Weiss.
made everything beautiful in his that when we keep our focus on Bro. Otto Klein was selected as
time:” Eccl. 3:11. Spring is right maintaining a pure heart, the cemetery trustee, replacing Bro.
around the corner! carnal things around us will fade Dave Rinkenberger. We thank
and the light will continue to Bro. Roger and Bro. Dave for their
Illinois, Congerville shine in our life. past years of service.
Mary Knapp, Erica Steffen "When pure and upright hearts, Kenda Martin’s (Tony) mother,
It was a blessing to witness By flames of love ignited, Pat Pfaffinger, is terminally ill with
the baptisms of two dear souls on Are by the bond of faith stomach cancer and is planning
January 17. Bro. Levi Steffen and More firmly yet united, to go on hospice. We want to
Bro. Jacob Ifft testified of how The light of hope beams forth remember her and the family in
God had called and drawn them In radiance far and nigh, prayer at this time.
to a life of following the Lord, Invites us to partake Bro. Nate Steffen has spent
and of God’s faithfulness to them. The blessings from on high." time in the hospital during the
Bro. Levi is the son of Bro. Jay The Union Of Hearts, past month, and he is currently at
and Sis. Melinda Steffen and Bro. Zion’s Harp, #79 Apostolic Christian Highland Oaks
Jacob is the son of Bro. Brent and With joy and excitement, we for physical therapy and to gain
Sis. Sheila Ifft. We are thankful to were made aware of the engagement strength. He hopes to return to
have these two young brothers in of Bro. Jacob Roth to Sis. Elise his apartment when he is able. We
faith to help and strengthen our Zimmerman. Bro. Jacob is the son are thankful that Elder Bro. Dan
church. Elder Bro. Tony Manz of Bro. Mark and Sis. Tammy Roth Moser (Sis. Anne) and Bro. Tom
(Junction, OH) assisted our Elder and Sis. Elise is the daughter of Bro. Schambach (Sis. Connie) are able to
Bro. Rick Plattner (Sis. Mary, Ben and Sis. Kathy Zimmerman. assemble with us again, and we pray
Fairbury, IL) for this occasion. Our prayers are with these two as for others who have been sick.
Bro. Michael Schneider (Sis. Jodi, they plan for their life together as On February 6-7, we gathered
Junction, OH) also served that one in the Lord. to hear the testimony and witness
weekend by bringing forth the Note of Thanks the baptism of Ashlyn Dietz
Word of God to us. A special “Thank You” to (Bro. Fred and Sis. Shaena). We
With sadness and hope, we all who remembered us during are thankful for her, and it was a
bid a final farewell to our Sis. the time of Maxine’s illness and blessing to have Elder Bro. Rick
Luella Sauder on January 19. Our death. She would have been so Plattner (Sis. Mary, Fairbury, IL)
heartfelt sympathy and prayers appreciative, as we have been, for come to assist Bro. Dan with the
go out to her family, especially all the many prayers, cards, words testimony and baptism. We were
her daughter Sandy Osman and of sympathy, phone calls, and also thankful to have several visiting
grandson Peter who are part of memorials. May God bless you for ministers that weekend: Bro. Darin
our church family. May God give sharing your love. (Matthew 5:16) Massner (Sis. Twila, West Bend,
comfort in this time of loss, but an Andrew Virkler and family IA), Bro. Barry Dietz (Sis. Rachel,
abiding hope that Sis. Luella has Bradford, IL), and Bro. Dean
now reached her heavenly home. Illinois, Elgin Steffen (Sis. Carol, Belvidere, IL), as
On January 23, Bro. Zach Amy Gasser well as many other visitors.
Anderson gave a topical Bible Our annual business meeting “Lord Jesus, I long to
presentation entitled, “Obtaining was held on Wednesday evening, be perfectly whole;
and Maintaining a Clean Heart”. January 20. Bro. Les Schambach I want Thee forever to
18 SILVER LINING March 2021You can also read
