THE PERFECT PASTOR [doesn’t exist]

A phrase was shared a lot several decades ago: "I'm not perfect; just forgiven!" It made a great bumper sticker!

Most of us would be fairly quick to confess a lack of perfection. One of the pressures of being a pastor is that people expect Christian perfection from you. You're a role model or 'poster-person' for the Christian life.

Yet pastors are people and people have flaws. ALL people!

In my years of serving as a pastor, one of my pitfalls was trying to be good at every aspect of my life and ministry. I wanted to be a great husband, dad, teacher, leader, preacher, brother, uncle, neighbor, writer, etc., etc. ad infinitum...

This is a path to burnout, and I've experienced that trauma! As a result, I've learned a few things over the years; there's always someone smarter, quicker, funnier, more effective, more creative [this list could go on-and-on].

I initially left seminary without graduating primarily because I didn’t like the competitive environment on campus [I later graduated from a different seminary.].  

I never excelled in sports partly because I didn’t have that ‘killer instinct’. If I got a lead, I would lay back – and occasionally lose the game as a result. 

For years, ministry was hard for me because I was not the ‘High Dominant’ type of leader.  Going to conferences where they asked us to fill out personality profiles made me groan.  Those with scores in ‘High D’ were praised and encouraged. Most of the content of those seminars seemed targeted toward them. I was a ‘High C’ = Cooperative Leader.  I’m the guy that wanted us all to cross the finish line together!  I was the traditional misfit! 

I remember a night when I was leading a council meeting at one of my latter churches.  We had about twelve at the table.  I had given a presentation about significant change for the church that I believed would facilitate growth.  I considered it a ‘seed-planting’ presentation, however, the council members seemed to readily embrace the ideas.  In a short time, it was vigorously discussed with many favorable thoughts shared.  As the end of our meeting time approached, people knew that I would end the meeting at 9:00 PM promptly.  In those final moments, a new leader made a motion to accept my proposal in its entirety.  We voted – and it passed - with three members abstaining.  I chose to end the meeting encouraging the council to pray about this matter and that we would vote again at the next month’s session.  As I prepared to adjourn the meeting, one of those who had a lot of questions about the changes, interrupted me.  He said, “Pastor, why don’t you pray about it right now and then take another vote.  So, I prayed for God’s direction and for clarity regarding the future of our church.  Then I reluctantly called for a revote by paper ballot.  The decision to move forward was unanimous – with no abstentions!  

Within the next three years our congregation exploded with growth!  PTL!  We all crossed the finish line together! 

‘High C’ leaders can be effective!  Their process however, typically takes more time – but the results are sometimes more permanent. 

But, I digress.

A primary problem for male pastors [I’ll leave the issue for female pastors to someone of that gender] is that out of our great desire to be the ideal leader, there is a temptation to conceal imperfections and failure rather than confessing them. This leads to living behind a façade.  While ministry activity is carried on satisfactorily – even exceptionally – the pastor is hiding horrendous practices and behavior!  There are far too many headline stories that illustrate this point. And the Church is severely damaged in the process. Faith in pastors is undermined.

We’re left wondering how this pastor could have acted so corruptly?

The answer is, of course, quite simple.

A lack of accountability. The podium role is largely unquestioned. This is exacerbated by a growing church! Who can question success? Consequently, a pastor who starts out working hard, being diligent and with exceptional goals and effort can gradually come to think that s/he deserves certain benefits. Fill in the blank here. They create a caveat that allows them to do things that they would have never considered earlier in their ministry. 

And once begun, the escape route of confession and reparation becomes too difficult to face!  Until finally the marriage crumbles or the sin is exposed. From that point, the damage has to be assessed and dealt with. Many congregants will walk away disillusioned. The next waves of leadership will live under suspicion. Everyone loses!

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It’s personal for me! I have felt all of the above mentioned stresses and temptations. Although my official record is clean and clear, I know of the dalliances with sin that have dotted my life – as does God!. Thanks to the prayers and support of fellow pastors, parishioners, family and friends, I was able to repeatedly come to the throne of grace and find mercy and grace to help in my times of need! 

I made a decision fairly early in my life to lean toward transparency. I’ve talked openly throughout my ministry about difficult seasons and times of distress. I’ve repeatedly aired my struggles and talked about challenging seasons. I’ve paid to see counselors at least four times over the years!

I discovered something remarkable and unexpected from the practice of sharing openly about my tough times. It didn’t make people move away from me. Rather, it seemed to draw people toward me. The confession that I thought might damage my ministry often became something that caused my ministry to prosper! I still marvel at this.

What does this say?

It seems to say that we all struggle in many ways. We can identify with pain, discouragement, setbacks, opposition, meanness, unfairness, bad luck, disappointments, stress, being overwhelmed, even bad decisions or sinful behavior etc., etc. 

In spite of high expectations for our leaders, we also recognize that they – like us – are human. Even pastors.

Gracious God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit,

Help our pastors to learn to practice humility and transparency so that even in their weak times – which we all have – they can be enabled by grace to continue to lead with strength and humility!

For the Kingdom’s sake. Amen.

A PRINCIPLE FOR CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP

There’s an odd story in Leviticus 10 that few will have ever read.  This is NOT one of the great chapters of the Bible!  Even if you read this chapter, you would be unimpressed – and likely left scratching your head.

Essentially, we must realize that in the years that followed the children of Israel’s escape from Egypt, they had a lot to learn about being God’s chosen people!  They had not been a godly people while serving as slaves in Egypt, although they did know enough to cry out to God for deliverance. 

[God speaking to Moses in Exodus 3] “I have seen the troubles my people have suffered in Egypt, and I have heard their cries when the Egyptian slave masters hurt them.” (v.7)

But the Israelites had no structure for worship.  They were homeless, countryless wanderers who had been liberated from Egypt, but were forced to live as vagabonds in the wilderness.  They lived in tents and moved frequently under God’s direction.

Moses was their leader.  Gradually – under God’s direction – he shared leadership with Aaron and his sons.  Apparently the sacrificial system began at some point after Moses delivered the Law from Mt. Sinai.  He was instructed by God to make special clothing for Aaron and his sons.  Moses instructed them in the intricate details of making sacrifices.  God has now provided a way for the Israelites to be forgiven for their sins and reinstated under God’s favor.

This new system was complex.  Aaron and his sons were new in their roles.  Moses was determined that everything should be done precisely as God ordered!

In these early days, we learn that two of Aaron’s sons did an offering wrong.  Details are thin.  We can assume that they knew what they were doing and that there was some rebellion involved in their actions.

Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu took their pans for burning incense, put fire in them, and added incense; but they did not use the special fire Moses had commanded them to use in the presence of the LORD. So fire came down from the LORD and destroyed Nadab and Abihu, and they died in front of the LORD.  [Leviticus 10:1-2 All quotes from the NCV unless otherwise noted]

 Moses was not happy and his next words to Aaron were:

This is what the LORD was speaking about when he said, ‘I must be respected as holy by those who come near me; before all the people I must be given honor.’  [v.3]

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It is appropriate to ask: Is this still true today?

Are spiritual leaders held to a higher standard?  As those who lead and teach the people, are these pastor/teachers expected to have an exceptional regard for God and relationship with Him?

Do we expect purer behavior from our spiritual leaders today?  Are we right in doing so?

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I think on some level we want our pastors and spiritual leaders to be holier and more committed to following Christ faithfully.  And yet, we also recognize that they – like us – are human.  They have faults. They make mistakes.  They sin.

However, it isn’t wrong for us to hope that those who serve us Holy Communion have a deep and vibrant connection to the Holy One! 

When we turn to a pastor or spiritual leader for counsel, we anticipate that they will guide us in ways that are pleasing to God and will correct us in our thinking and ways. 

Yet, we have observed – very painfully – the reality that some spiritual leaders have been wickedly deceptive.  They have presented a false image while living in abominable ways in secret.  They have deceived the crowds for years while leading despicable lives! 

The results of these situations have been devastating!  People are caught in disbelief!  They feel betrayed – even ashamed.  Their confidence in the Church is diminished and they often find it difficult to trust again.  This is a sad reality that many have had to deal with. 

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Pastors and leaders must recognize that they have a trust with God that directly impacts the people they minister to.  To violate that trust is a travesty! 

Some [myself included] believe that certain violations of trust should bar that person from the role of pastor permanently.  This is a sacred trust between God and the man or woman who serves Him in His Church!  Some breeches of this sacred vow simply disqualify a person from holding that office again.

Wait, Pastor Hal, are you saying that there is no forgiveness?

Absolutely not!  Indeed there is forgiveness – full and free!  However, the path to a restored role as pastor/spiritual leader may not be available to this person. 

There have been cases where grievous sins were committed, but after sincere remorse and genuine confession they were restored to their leadership role.  I could cite several cases where accountability and counseling were required during a period of reconciliation and restoration.  Some of these individuals – once restored – have used their platform to write and teach about the unique vulnerabilities of pastors and leaders today! 

It seems essential that these kinds of cases require forethought on the part of denominational leaders.  A process must be maintained and adhered to faithfully in all cases.  This process must surely involve:

§  Genuine confession and restitution - if appropriate and possible.

§  A complete surrender to leadership who will direct the person through an extensive process. 

§  Strict, extensive accountability by trusted, respected, peers.

§  A process that will continue – in some form – throughout the person’s ministry.

§  An ongoing submission to leaders for the duration of their ministry.

In my own faith tradition I have not seen this kind of response.  Bishops and superintendents have practiced leniency with no consequences.  I am aware of several cases where such a leader went on to commit further, grievous sins and have further tainted the name of God and the effectiveness of the church. 

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Ministry in the church is a unique role!  Guiding others in their spiritual development and walk is a significant responsibility!  It must be taken seriously.  Most churches require an educational and experiential process to be ordained into the ministry.  When they have engaged meaningfully in this process, they are ultimately questioned publicly as to their commitment and then - in a worship setting - are ordained into the ministry after having made public vows to be faithful to God and the Church! 

This is why significant breeches of responsibility must be dealt with carefully, judiciously and with the protection of the church in mind!   This is frequently the responsibility of synods, presbyteries, bishops and superintendents [depending on the denomination’s structure]. 

BOTTOM LINE:

Spiritual leaders and pastors ultimately answer to God!  But they also must answer to governing bodies that are responsible for them and their character.  These leaders must accept the fact that there are appointed people [or bodies of leadership] who will hold their feet to the fire and administer correction, discipline, and possibly a path to restoration. 

LORD OF THE CHURCH: Father, Son and Holy Spirit,

Bless Your leaders with integrity, determination, and genuine compassion as they solemnly lead Your Church!

Grant them wisdom, humility, and grace as they fulfill the awesome responsibility which is theirs as the preach, teach, counsel, cast vision, and oversee the growth of Your Kingdom!

Give overseers, bishops and denominational bodies divine insight as they exercise responsibility for maintaining the high standards for those who directly impact the growth of Your Kingdom on earth!

Preserve those who lead churches and denominations as they seek to maintain exemplary lives as a model for those who sit under their teaching and influence!

FOR YOUR GLORY AND THE CONTINUED GROWTH OF YOUR KINGDOM

AMEN.

STORY OF THE OAKLAND FREE METHODIST CHURCH

From June, 1982 – May, 1995

Written by Pastor Harold E. Haire at the conclusion of his thirteen year appointment.

I was appointed to the Oakland Free Methodist Church by the Pittsburgh Conference Stationing Committee in June of 1982 [I was thirty years old].  A very smooth transition of leadership was facilitated by Pastor John F. States. Some church statistics for the year ending 1982 were: Total Membership – 120; Morning Worship Average – 102; and Total Budget - $59,379.

During the transition period, Pastor States held a meeting including himself, myself and Debbie, and the Pastor’s Cabinet at that time: Russell Dray, Sr., Alma Kelly, Henry Muschweck, Paul Ward, Betty Heald and Martha Anderson (some spouses were involved as well).  In the dialogue of this evening, the Cabinet clarified its desire in two points: 1) they wanted help in involving younger people into the leadership of the church; and 2) they wanted a strong youth ministry to be maintained.

Both of these goals have been met, but not without pain. Over the years, there has been a steady increase of involvement by a new group of people [Hal’s original copy includes the names of over 122 individuals]. However, transitions of power are never easy. My thirteen-year ministry at Oakland can best be characterized as a time of generational transition. There has been a gradual passing of the torch of leadership to a younger generation.  Unfortunately, some older members have felt left out or overlooked as aa result of this change.  Some, who have been discontent, have hindered the progress of the church by resisting change. One interesting note is that of the above-mentioned Cabinet, four of those are still on the 1995 Cabinet: Henry Muschweck, Alma Kelly, Betty Heald and Paul Ward.

The Oakland Church has continued to be a strong church with a desire to influence its community for Christ. There has been a steady flow of new people through the church over the years. Some have stayed for only a few weeks; some have stayed for several years and became quite involved in the life of the church; and some are still involved. At the present time the Church is made up of three fairly distinct groupings.

·         First, there is a large group of older members who are still active in the church life to varying degrees.

·         Second, there is a large group of middle-aged couples/families, most of whom are active and supportive.

·         Third, there is an active and large group of youth under the leadership of Associate Pastor Raeanne Thompson [now Barlow].

This reveals two needs for the future. At present, we have very few children and very few young adult couples. A young, single adult Sunday School class is to begin in June, 1995, to seek to address this challenge.  The present leadership will be wise to seek to involve younger people in significant positions to facilitate a smooth, yet gradual transition of leadership.

Specific stresses have existed in East Liverpool that have had a direct effect on church growth expectations. The closing of the Crucible Steel Mill in 1982, had a devastating impact on the community! Many families were thrown into long-term unemployment situations. In addition, a long-term tension over the construction and operation of Waste Technologies Incorporated has affected the community for the same period of time.  This waste incinerator is located within 500 yards of the Oakland Church. Neighborhood property values have been impacted as a result of this planned construction.  Due to these and other factors, the area has been largely characterized by low self-esteem and depression., This makes East Liverpool a wonderful location for an outreaching, teaching and caring Christian community!

The youth ministry has remained strong over these years at the Oakland Church. An active Christian Youth Crusader/Christian Life Club has been maintained every year up until 1994. This has faithfully fed young people into the youth group. A number of individuals helped with the Youth Ministry through October, 1991, when Pastor Raeanne began. Some of those were: Russ Dray, Philip Kelly, Debbie Haire, Harold Haire, Rick and Regina Anderson, and Karen Kelly.  Both the Youth Group and the CYC/CLC have been blessed with large numbers of kids. Parents and families do tend to come for special programs and events, but not for regular involvement in the life of the church.

We have consistently worked to become a more welcoming church. There are two areas where we have made significant gains. The first is in what could be called the personality of the church. Visitors now report that they feel very welcomed upon attending services at Oakland. This change is the result of much labor and instruction on the part of the pastor and the people. We have regularly reviewed the basics of being a friendly church. We have stressed the necessity of enfolding new people.  Harold Kelly has been our inspiration in this area. He is greatly appreciated and respected by this congregation because of his love for the Lord, love for people and desire for growth in the Kingdom!

The second area of significant growth has been in worship. This church has a history of meaningful worship. In stride with other changes, the church has undergone a transformation of worship style. It began subtly with the introduction of new choruses. [This trend was aggressively moving through American churches in the 1980’s.] It evolved to be a full-fledged contemporary form. Today the Oakland congregation has an enormous range of hymns, gospel songs and praise choruses that it uses in its worship. Since 1991, a Worship Team has participated in the planning and leadership of worship: David Kelly, David Pinkerton, Bradley Cowsert, Robert Cowsert, Marilyn Kelly, Ronald Kelly, Lynn Muschweck and the pastors. The last several years have been punctuated with periodic ‘Festivals of Praise’. These gatherings have often involved other congregations and musicians from the area. They have been memorable times of participatory worship!

There have been quite a number of special events over these years. I’m sure I’ll omit some, but let me mention a few.

In the Spring of 1984, a large group worked hard under Ron Kelly’s direction to learn and deliver Bill Gaither’s ALLELUJAH: a Praise Gathering for Believers on Pentecost Sunday! Later that summer we chartered a bus and took our whole Sunday evening service to Warren, Ohio - where John States was leading the church – to share the musical with their congregation!

In April of 1985,we held a revival with five other area Free Methodist Churches participating: Oakland, First FMC, Beechwood, Ohioville, Wellsville and Hookstown. Former Bishop Paul N. Ellis was the speaker. In his illness, Reverend James Bischoff preached for the first two nights. The week was well attended and marked with times of meaningful worship.

November of 1988, saw Trygvar and Anne Brauteseth come to Oakland for an evening of sharing about their ministry in South Africa. The crowd was not large but the blessing of the Spirit was! He told of a witch doctor who dedicated his life to Christ. This man brought all the tools of his trade together for a fire to give testimony tohis changed life.  They couldn’t get the items to burn. Trygvar sensed the opposition of Satan; he prayed for God’s intervention. Fire fell from heaven and burned up all of the man’s belongings. At the end of the service the congregation committed to purchasing a $1,500 tent for evangelism in South Africa. David Kelly led us in this vision. Later, unknown0of money came through from his late grandmother to help with this purchase. A fellowship time was held at David and Karen’s home afterward. Trygvar shared stories with the men in one room while Anne shared with the ladies in another. 

In September, 1989, we held a gret weekend called HOMECOMING ’89. We rented a huge carnival tent for shade. We served a meal at the Tri-State Campground and held an afternoon of remembering with former pastors and superintendents sharing. The Sunday morning worship was a highlight with a procession of choir and pastors. It was a very well-attended event. The camp dining hall got a last minute coat of paint to spruce it up for our guests. A video was made of the weekend by Bob Cowsert which is kept in the church office!

On December 29, 1991, we held a Festival of Praise, led by Jim and Tammy Bean. It was a wonderful time of animated worship. This was to be the first of many gatherings. During this period we were receiving much teaching in the area of biblical finances from past and Ron Kelly. That night, Alma Kelly and Ron Kelly led the congregation in a ‘Wave Offering’ in which the entire debt of the church was eliminated ($26,000)!!  Praise the Lord! 

From the end of October, 1992, through January, 1993, we enjoyed the teaching of Reverend James Crawley of the New Hope Baptist Church. Sunday evening after Sunday evening he bathed us in his insights into The Song of Solomon. It was during this period that Shirley Kelly committed her life to Christ and started attending regularly. Pulpit exchanges with New Hope were held every year with affirming responses and rich fellowship.

Three different ‘Life in the Spirit’ weekends were held. The first was in April, 1988, and Reverend Christina Ferris brought a series of messages.  The next was in the Spring of 1992. Reverend W. P. Jones and his wife, Virginia, came to share with us. The Lord blessed in a great way as Reverend Jones brought messages to challenge the church. On Saturday evening we had a special time for blessing the children. Beginning at one end and moving toward the other end of the altar, Reverend Jones laid his hands on each child and gave them a spiritual blessing. Many parents were amazed at the accuracy of his words and prayers; it was apparent that he was being led by the Holy Spirit.

In November of 1993, Reverend Lucie Behar came to share with the congregation in a ‘Life in the Spirit’ week.  Lucien had been with us twice before; the Oakland congregation loves this evangelist! He returned to East Liverpool in July, 1994, to serve as evangelist for the Tri-State Family Camp – another tremendous time of spiritual refreshment.

Also in November of 1993, we enjoyed another special evening with a retired missionary couple: Reverend and Mrs. Clarence and Betty Owsley. They had served as career missionaries to Brazil and were travelling again due to a shortage of missionaries stateside. Once again, we were blessed by their wisdom, enthusiasm and heart for the lost. Brother Owsley sat on the front seat during worship and vigorously sang the contemporary praise choruses selected for that evening. He and Betty provided a wonderful example of Christian grace in retirement. Even as I leave Oakland, I am sharing a recent letter from the Owsley’s who are planning to return to Brazil (at age 75) for a six-month VISA tour to cover for Clancy and Doris Thompson while they are on furlough. Brother Owsley’s new motto: “Come Alive in ‘95”! 

We were also blessed in November of 1993 and 1994!  Both years our evangelism committee involved us in the Annual East Liverpool Christmas Parade. Free hot chocolate was distributed in the name of Jesus from David and Karen Kelly’s home (200 West Sixth Street). A float was also entered in the parade, something that had been done each year for several years by the Christian Life Club. Candy [attached to tracts] was passed out by prayerful parishioners among the crowd. All in all, 40-50 Oaklanders were involved each year! A spirit of goodwill was communicated and seeds were sown for the glory of the Lord!

Finally, during the winters of 1994 and 1995, we enjoyed the teaching of Debbie’s father, Mr. Ken Whippo of the Rochester, PA Free Methodist Church. The first year Ken taught an excellent study of the ‘End Times’. The discussion was rich and an average of over forty was maintained. Food and fellowship also characterized these evenings. The second year his topic was ‘Creation Verses Evolution’.

There were many others who preached [at least once] over this thirteen-year period:

James McMasters
Maxine Smith
Lee Spear
Howard Canon
R.D. Merkle
R.A. Neal
Roy Perkins
E.L. Daugherty
Greg Bengry
Eric Nulph
David Stout
Gordon Aiken
John Kelley
James Crowley
David Peterson
R. T. Singleton
S.H. Estel
Milo Smith
Wilmer Olszewski
Bishop Gerald Bates
Bishop Richard Snyder
Violet Turner
Kenneth Campbell
Ronald Kelly
Russell Dray, Sr.
Tilman Houser
John States
D. Edward Bailey
V. J. Mannoia
Fred Thomas
Lucien Behar
Tom Johnston
W.P Jones
Charles Parry
Christina Ferris
Tom Roush
Chris Baker
Lloyd Arnett
Dean McElroy
Wayne Standley
Dean Beguhl
Raeanne Thompson [Barlow]
David B. Kelly
Donald Davis

We enjoyed wonderful missionary meetings with Elaine Williamson (Fall, 1994) and Ken Leech (February 1994). There was a great week of training in personal evangelism by the Reverend Tom Johnston (May, 1990).  In addition, there were Bishop’s Rallies, Family Camps, Community Worship Services, precious times of Holy Communion, baptism services (several One observation is noteworthy:), 45-Club Celebrations [regarding faithful attendance in Sunday School], Sunday-Evenings-at-the-Campground, Super Bowl Sundays, and even Mid-Winter Cook-outs!

Events like these are great, but what is truly important is the effect of the church on its community and the spiritual growth of its adherents. There is evidence that our church is becoming more outreaching in evangelism. The Annual Reports from 1982-1994 indicate that seventy-five individuals have come to faith in Christ. [A record of these names is in Pastor Hal’s original document.]  Many of these have been through pastoral ministry, many others have also been through the ministry of the CYC/CLC/VBS. Many more have been through the youth group – especially in the latter years under Pastor Raeanne Thompson [Barlow’s] leadership! 

Present statistics for the year ending 1994 were:

·         Total Membership – 102

·         Morning Worship Average – 93  [This fails to reflect the fact that we had many Sundays with an attendance of over 200.]

·         Total Budget - $119,094

·         I recorded [in my original document] the names of 75 individuals who made a first-time commitment to Christ!

One observation is noteworthy:

In 1990, the church family became embroiled in a division over whether or not to have a cable television hooked up in the church. This issue seemed to have been a culmination of a long-term, gradually –growing dispute between traditional verses contemporary forms of worship and ministry.

The end result: no converts in 1990. It is obvious that our enemy distracted us from our mission!

On the other hand, spiritual growth has been very evident in much of the congregation. Oakland attenders have become more Bible-oriented. There is a great emphasis on worship. The gifts of the Spirit are discerned and employed in the “Body of Christ”. Sunday School classes, prayer groups and fellowship times are characterized by love and joy. However, complete unity has been difficult to attain.

In about 1986, a small group of folks began to meet on Monday nights for prayer, study and praise. These gatherings sometimes included as many as thirty people. [As of my departure, the groups continued to meet, although with smaller attendances]. The emergence of this group seems to coincide with the rising of a theological divergence in the Oakland Church. These theological tensions exist mainly in the understanding of healing/health, and in the area of prosperity or God’s provision for the believer. At times these differing opinions have been defended vigorously in public. However, most of the time these differences are not addressed in open forum. My role has been critical in maintaining balance in this church. A free-flow of interaction would be the desirable route to address these concerns and find resolution.

One of the truly great endeavors of our church has been its vigorous leadership in the area of employing pastoral apprentice interns. We began this practice in 1987, by cooperating with the Pittsburgh Conference Student Summer Intern Program (SSIP). Mr. D. Edward Bailey came that year to be our full time, summer, pastoral assistant. When he returned in 1988, we ran the program without outside financial assistance. We did so again in 1989, and 1990, with Miss Raeanne Thomson serving as the pastoral assistant. This was especially beneficial since she would later come to Oakland as Associate Pastor. Then, in 1992, we enjoyed having our own Mr. Chris Baker as summer intern. He is now studying for the full-time Free Methodist ministry at Asbury Theological Seminary.

These last several years have been a time of real stretching for the Oakland congregation. In the Fall of 1991, with some financial assistance from the Pittsburgh Conference, we brought Raeanne Thompson on as a full time, Associate Pastor with major responsibility in the youth area. Her contributions are of inestimable value. She has led many to faith in Christ. The youth group has continually shown signs of life and vitality. Her influence has been felt widely through the church family and also throughout the community. This year she will be ordained ‘Deacon’ at the second sitting of the annual conference. Her youth have a positive influence on the worship and ministry outreach of this church. The congregation has really had to be flexible to allow for the activity that comes with a growing youth group; however, the payoff has been well worthwhile!

The financial growth of the church is something that must be addressed. Ron Kelly has played a major role in this area through the years. Our teaching and emphasis on biblical principles of finance have been a catalyst to some great things happening.  Gradually we saw a willingness develop to ‘sow’ money into the lives and ministry of others (rather than trying to keep it all for use at Oakland). This began by sowing into the lives of several minister friends: Olvers, Hetzers, Babels, and others. The Lord seems to have been leading us to this ministry clear back with the Brauteseth’s tent!  Over the years we saw one after another exciting things happen. Financial testimonies became part of the regular course of events.

A major point of turning seems to have been the 1991 Festival of Praise ($26,000 debt elimination)!  This led to the 1993 formulation of a $100,000 Global Outreach Challenge. Although originally formulated time frames were not realized, the congregation continues to pray and give believing that God wants to use this congregation in a strategic manner to accomplish His worldwide outreach.  As of the present date, over $18,000 has been given for this purpose since September, 1993. Most of this has gone toward the support of Dr, Dan and Dean Snyder and their family. They are [at the time of writing] in language studies in Canada with plans to eventually return to Central Africa!

A careful transition has been planned as the congregation prepares to receive a newly appointed pastor in June. The Haires are being appointed to the Spencerville, Maryland Free Methodist Church [Maryland/Virginia Conference]. With Travis having recently entered the Navy (and stationed in Florida), it will be just Harold, Debbie, Troy (14) and Tracie (13) moving to the D.C. area. We consider it a blessing to have raised our family in a progressive setting such as Oakland. I have deeply appreciated the caring affirmation and support I have so consistently received here. I will always be appreciative of the Oakland Church for facilitating the attaining of my Master of Divinity degree from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary (1987) and my Master of Arts in Counseling degree from the Franciscan University of Steubenville (1992).

My major regret is that I seem to have alienated a group of older members who eventually withdrew from active involvement in the church. This, coupled with spiritual, personal and family concerns contributed to the motivation for a change. It is insightful to note that the Spring, 1995 pastoral vote was almost unanimous to have a continuation of leadership! 

We will always reflect on Oakland Church as a place of fond memories. We have enjoyed and benefitted from many rich times of meaningful worship and praise here. We will continue to pray that this congregation will always hold hands with God as they move into the future. We shall watch from a distance, expecting to hear great things from East Liverpool. 

CAPITAL IMPORVEMENTS/ADDITIONS MADE FROM 1982-1995:

1983 – New piano for the Light and Life room.

1987 – Trusses and shingle roof on the educational wing. Also re-shingled the sanctuary.

1988 – Sound room constructed at the back of the sanctuary.  Sound system installed.

            Olympia Es-95 typewriter purchased.

 1990 – New phone system and additional phone line installed.

            Large-screen television and video cassette recorder purchased.

 1991 – Van purchased (used).

 1992 – Stove purchased for the Light and Life room.

            Mita DC-1435 copier purchased.

            Garage begun (finished in 1993).

 1993 – Cupboards installed in the Light and Life room (rear, right side).

            Resource tables added.

 1994 – Secretary and Associate Pastor’s desks purchased.

 1995 – Tractor purchased.

COULD THEY BE ANGELS AND WE DON'T REALIZE IT?

A few years ago, when the illegal immigration was beginning to have a dynamic impact on our American culture, I was still working as a Lyft driver.  I clearly noticed an increase in riders who could not speak English.  The more I encountered this phenomenon, the more I realized the opportunity it offered for relevant and evangelistically aggressive congregations to make a difference in their broader community by offering ‘English-as-a-second-language’ classes.  Although this could have been done in the churches own facilities, I felt that it would be more effective if these classes were offered in a neutral setting. 

Now we realize that our culture was flooded with millions of immigrants who were struggling to find a means of survival in a strange and complex culture.  Churches could have stepped into that gap to help.  After all, many of these immigrants were actually Christian people and families who were routed to various parts of our country with no associations and few resources. 

Although my purview is strictly limited, I did not become aware of any churches that took advantage of this opportunity to serve.  Nor did I read of or hear of churches offering this vital service to a needy part of our population. 

Our holy scriptures include clear instructions for how we are to behave when situations like this confront us:

Leviticus 19:33-34  [NASB]

“When a stranger resides with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong.  The stranger who resides with you shall be to you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt; I am the LORD”

Matthew 25:35  [NASB]

“For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in…”

Hebrews 13:2  [NASB]

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.”

Galatians 5:14  [NASB]

“For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’”

However, for those churches – as well as us as individuals – who did not respond to this language barrier crisis, there is a looming crisis of even greater magnitude on the horizon today! 

The newly installed Trump administration will inevitably remove many of the support systems and funding programs that proliferated under Biden’s leadership [whether or not we agreed with these funding priorities]. 

It only takes a little imagination to recognize that there are millions now living among us who will – as of today – be living in fear of being discovered and deported from this great country.  It is likely that these immigrants will go to even greater extremes to be invisible and under the radar! 

Ah, what a great comfort a church family could be to individuals and families living under this constant threat of eviction complimented by diminishing resources and the high level of disdain expressed by the majority of Americans. 

Re-read the verses above!  Not all of these people crossed into our country illegally.  Many were processed at the border by official border agents.  They were, in turn, offered bus tickets to major U.S. cities where – in many cases – they were provided housing and even financial support.  Although President Trump is right in saying that some of these individuals have been dumped on our culture by countries that were trying to rid themselves of undesirables, that is not the case for all of these people.  Many simply saw that the door was open to one of the greatest countries in the world!  Why not try to improve themselves?

But consider the potential for church families to create a safe haven for those living in this fear.  I’m not suggesting that we harbor these individuals and families.  I’m simply suggesting that making inroads to this community could allow us to be a great blessing to those who will now be living in daily fear. 

It is likely that we are all in agreement with a plan to locate the horrific criminal and gang-related immigrants who have done unspeakable harm and have proliferated the increase in fentanyl deaths in our country. 

However, there are many others who came simply because the door was open for four years.  Have these ‘strangers’ and ‘aliens’ been welcomed by the American Church?  Have they been embraced?  Have they found us to be a welcoming and helping part of the American community? 

You can answer that question by looking at the impact of your own church…

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How many are hovelling together in cramped conditions trying to survive this terribly frigid winter that is such a new experience from these who have come from significantly warmer climates?  How many are sorry that they made this venture?  How many long for the comforts they may have left behind in their own homeland, but have no resources to return?  How many are struggling to survive – or who will be with the withdrawal of support systems that have been sustaining them?  How many will now be living in fear of ICE [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] agents showing up to brutally remove them from the small haven they’ve been able to carve out as unwelcome visitors? 

But don’t look for an overwhelming response from our American churches.  They’re too focused on planning the Sunday worship service and maintaining the traditions and distinctions that are so important.  Like it or not, it’s a VERY rare church in America that is actually acting on the scriptures listed above!

EVERYBODY IS SOMEBODY!

I just read a Facebook post about a homeless man who walked into a Chick-fil-A and asked if they had any extra food.  The manager told him that he would get him a full meal, then asked if he could pray with the man.  He put his hand on the man’s shoulder and prayed a beautiful prayer over him!  A father/daughter was sitting very near seeing and hearing the whole event.  He talked with his daughter about what had just happened.

Everybody is somebody!  Not only somebody, but somebody’s son or daughter.  [If we thought seriously about that, the problem of pornography would go away overnight!]  They might also be somebody’s brother, sister, friend – you can see where this is going!  They’re NOT a NOBODY!  They’re a SOMEBODY!  

Can we keep this in mind as we move through our day? 

Keep in mind that you will not cross paths with a single NOBODY during this entire day!  You will, however cross paths with a lot of SOMEBODIES! 

How will you treat the SOMEBODIES that you encounter?  Will you offer to pray with them?  Will you arrange for them to have some lunch?  Will you show a genuine interest in their words and actions?  Will you try to encourage them? 

Out of your abundance, will you make a significant effort to meet whatever need has them stressed? 

Everybody makes an impact – for good or for bad!  What will your impact be today? 

Will God be pleased with the decisions you make today?  Or will He drop His head and wonder how He can get your attention and change your heart? 

One of the good things about church is that it generally gets us to repeat words like:

    o  I love You, Lord
    o  I will serve You
    o  Have Your way, Lord
    o  I am Yours, O Lord
    o  I surrender all

But, do we leave church and forget what we’ve just agreed to?  Could it be possible that we are modern-day Pharisees?  We say one thing, but act out another?  We are pretenders?  We are posers?  We try to look good, but inside we’re selfish and prideful? 

Are we occasionally mean?  Do we gossip?  Are we stingy?  Do we hide hatred in our hearts? 

Do we treat SOMEBODIES like NOBODIES? 

Do we swap insult for insult? 

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A woman walked into The Foundery Church [give her credit – do you realize how hard it is to walk into a church for the first time?] 

As the leader explained the prayer card, she took it out of her bulletin and spent some time writing on it.  When the offering was received by our precious children, she dropped her card in the plate.   

It was retrieved by the leader of our First Impressions Team who called her later in the day to clarify the address [so that she could deliver fresh-baked cookies].  They had a nice talk as the woman expressed how she had experienced God’s presence and enjoyed the message. 

Her card stated that she’s suffering from “emotional pain caused by gossip from believers at another church.” 

How sad is that?  Driven away from the church by people who supposedly love Jesus but think that gossip and nastiness is permissible! 

She’s damaged – perhaps even crushed, but - God bless her - she's still hopeful that by trying another church, maybe she’ll find a healing and an accepting environment.  Her response card indicated that she was encouraged by the message and “almost came up to speak to the pastor”. 

The few of us who see the prayer needs have been praying for her!   

WHY?  

Because she’s a SOMEBODY!

Just remember today that EVERYBODY IS A SOMEBODY!  Keep that in mind as you bump into people today! 

STREAKING IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

 I see that this title got your attention!  You will not be disappointed.

Isaiah was one of God's Old Testament prophets.  He faithfully delivered God's messages over a period from 740-680 B.C.  

In 711 B.C., Sargon II - king in Assyria - sent his field marshal to attack and defeat the city of Ashdod [located near the Mediterranean Sea in an area known today as the Gaza Strip]. 

At this time, God was very angry with Egypt and Ethiopia and was about to bring judgment on them for their rebellion.  God wants His people to know that this divinely orchestrated punishment was coming because they lay in the direct path between Egypt and Assyria - mortal enemies!  Consequently, they also needed to prepare for this invasion!

It is said that "a picture is worth a thousand words."  So, instead of just sending Isaiah to speak this vital message of warning, God instructs Isaiah to:

Take off all your clothes of mourning, and take off your shoes too.  Of course, Isaiah did that, which left him utterly naked, head to toe. [Isaiah 20:2]

[All quotes from The Voice Bible unless otherwise noted]

Isaiah walked around for three years naked and barefoot illustrating what was going to happen to Assyria and Ethiopia.  

Assyria will take away Egypt's captives and Ethiopia's exiles, young and old alike, naked and barefoot as slaves. The Egyptians' shameful impotence and their bare behinds will be on display for all to see as they are driven away by the Assyrians. They will be mortified and humiliated, for they depended on each other, confident that Egypt and Ethiopia could withstand Assyrian assault.  [Isaiah 20:4-5] 

Isaiah obeyed God and vividly portrayed what was going to happen to Egypt and Ethiopia.  It is highly likely that many of the Israelites would see these defeated people as they were herded through Israel on their way back to Assyria!

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In an ancient day when communications were far less effective than they are today, God used His prophets in strange ways that would capture the people's attention!  There are many similar incidents in the other Old Testament prophetic books!  God is dramatic!  He sends His messages with a strong desire that they be heard and heeded!

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In fact, Sargon II never did defeat Egypt and Ethiopia.  Assyria - under different leaders - squashed Egypt over fifty years later.  It seems that God was using Isaiah's actions to warn Israel NOT to put their trust in Egypt - which they had done before.  

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God will use who He wants to use - when He wants to use them!  It's doubtful that anyone looked at Jonah and said, "Now there's a man that God will surely use for His sovereign purposes".  And yet, God did choose and use Jonah!  He used farmers as prophets as well.  

In the Philippines God uses many women to lead the Church!  In Nepal God is using rugged men from the mountains to sustain His work!  In many places across Africa, God is mobilizing those who have endured horrendous suffering!  In America, God is calling men and women from other vocations to come and lead His Church!  \

HE IS STILL THE LORD OF THE CHURCH!

BURNED OUT - THEN REDEEMED

I arrived as pastor of the Oakland Church in June,1982.  I was thirty.  Most of those leading the church at the time were from my parent’s generation.  My Pastor’s Cabinet had people on it like Paul Ward, Alma Kelly, Pete Muschweck, Jim Heldreth, Russ Dray, Martha Anderson, and perhaps one or two others [they were all contemporaries with my parents and thought of me as the ornery kid from Family Camp].

In spite of significant opposition, the church began to grow.  I was leading a growing church, travelling to Pittsburgh three or four times a week to attend classes toward my Master of Divinity degree, helping to launch a pregnancy Center, and all-the-while, trying to be a great husband and father.  By October,1984, I was exhausted and overwhelmed.

One Wednesday, I called an emergency Pastor’s Cabinet meeting and resigned.  I had no plan, no job lined up, no resources stashed away – I was simply and severely ‘burned out’! 

Needless to say, the Cabinet members were shocked by my announcement.  After delivering my message to them, I simply got up and moved toward the door.  As I did so, Alma Kelly called my name in her principal’s voice:  “Harold!”

I did what any respectful person would do – I turned to face her.  She had tears in her eyes.  She trembled as she spoke.  She reviewed the fact that I had been working in an environment that was immersed in evil forces.  That struck me;  I had never seriously considered that circumstance.  Less than ten years earlier this church had been rocked with a moral scandal that had damaged lives as well as the church’s reputation.  She pointed out that the very study where I worked daily had been the place of horrible violations. 

Then – and I’ll never forget it – she said, “We don’t accept your resignation!  We’re placing you on an indeterminate leave of absence with full pay.”  And then she assured me that they would be praying for me to get rested and return to my ministry. 

And with that, I opened the door and left.

Now, let me state for the facts that Alma didn’t have the authority to make that decision!  However, no one – to my knowledge – ever questioned her decision. 

I don’t know all of the details that followed for the obvious reasons, but I know that Alma largely led the church for the next several months.  She arranged ‘fill-in’ preachers and may have even preached herself.  She took authority and to the best of my knowledge, no one questioned her during that period. 

Every Sunday after that, Peter Muschweck – the Oakland treasurer – stopped by our home on Sunday afternoons and dropped off my paycheck.  We received cards and bouquets of flowers from people in the congregation. 

During the ensuing weeks, I sought the counsel of several older pastors.  I also saw a professional counselor.  I did NOT leave God!  I still read the scriptures and still prayed.  I rested – as Alma had instructed. 

Toward the end of November, I announced to Debbie that I was going to go on a backpacking trip in the Laurel mountains.  After several days on this seventy-mile trail, I was walking a logging road and had a series of thoughts that passed through my mind in a matter of minutes.  I considered asking God for a ‘fleece’ [sign] to assure me that He did indeed want me in the ministry. 

My first question to myself was, “What would be a good fleece?”  My imagination took off.  I thought, “What if – when I return home – I was to go to the Oakland Church and whoever was the preacher would preach a message on the most common scripture in the Bible?”  Then, I thought, “What would that scripture be?”  The answer was obvious, it would be John 3:16.  And with that, this little mental excursion – that had lasted mere seconds – ended and was forgotten. 

During the next several days, however, I resolved through prayer and physical exertion that God did want me in the ministry – that He had indeed called me.  I longed to be with my family for Thanksgiving.  But I had miles to go with mountains in between to get to my car.  I hiked hard and into the night to make it.  Stopped on the way home to call Debbie and tell her that I would be getting home very late.  Then, I added, “On Sunday, we’re going to church at Oakland.”  That surely surprised her!

We had a simple Thanksgiving and on Sunday we arrived intentionally a little late for church. You could hear gasps as we walked down the aisle and took a seat down front. 

Alma was leading the service.  Elwood Daugherty was the guest preacher;  he was the assistant to the superintendent of the Pittsburgh Conference.  It was the first Sunday of Advent.  After some singing, Alma invited him to read his scripture lesson.  He invited us to turn to John 3.  I grabbed my Bible and opened to his lesson. 

As he began to read, the memory of my mental excursion became vivid to me.  I wondered how far he would read;  he finished at John 3:17. 

I was on pins and needles and couldn’t wait to hear him preach!  But there was an offering and more singing.  Every nerve in my body was alert and on edge!  I had the highest level of anticipation! 

Finally, he stepped up and said, “God has spoken to me very clearly this week.  He wants me to bring a message this morning that is based solely on one verse:  John 3:16.” 

I hope you know that I can’t help you understand what I experienced.  The love of God for me was made so clear that morning by Elwood’s words. 

Before the end of that year, I returned to my role as pastor and – in spite of chronic opposition – Oakland became a church of over two hundred with scores of people coming to faith in Christ!