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Jesus’ Acceptance, part 1

Here is part one of a two-part article by Gary Deddo. For part two, click here.

Christians often joyfully proclaim that “Jesus accepts everyone” and “does not judge anyone.” Though there is gospel truth in these affirmations, I find that people assign to them a wide range of different meanings. Unfortunately, some of those meanings seem to differ from the revelation of Jesus that is given to us in the New Testament.

In GCI circles, we often use the phrase, “You’re included.” That simple statement conveys an important point. But it too can be (and has been) understood in a variety of ways. What exactly are we included in? Answering this and related questions calls for care as we, in faith, seek to sort out the related issues so that we are accurate and thus faithful to the biblical revelation.

Jesus certainly did welcome all into his presence and offered himself and his teaching to all who came toward him. In fact, he told his listeners that he would draw all persons to himself (John 12:32). Indeed, we find no instances where Jesus rejected someone, turning away from or refusing someone who was seeking him out. More than that, Jesus received and even shared meals with the sorts of people who were being rejected by many of the religious leaders of his day.

What stands out in the biblical record is the fact that Jesus welcomed and interacted with lepers, the lame, blind, deaf and dumb. He interacted socially with women (some with questionable reputations) and did so in ways that ignored religious regulations of the day. Jesus also spent time with adulterers, with Jewish tax collectors working under Roman direction, and even with fanatical anti-Roman political activists.

Furthermore, Jesus spent time with the Pharisees and Sadducees, religious leaders who were his most severe critics (including some who plotted his execution). The apostle John tells us that Jesus did not come to condemn, but to save and rescue people for God. Jesus said, “whoever comes to me I will never drive away” (John 6:37). He also instructed his disciples to love their enemies (Luke 6:27), forgive those who wronged them and bless those who cursed them (Luke 6:28). Jesus also extended forgiveness to his executioners at the moment of his crucifixion (Luke 23:34).

What comes across in these examples is that Jesus came to benefit all—he was “on the side” of everyone, he was “for” everyone. He is God’s grace and God’s salvation for all. The rest of the New Testament outside of the Gospels summarizes what we see lived out in Jesus’ life. Paul indicates that Jesus came to atone for the sins of the ungodly, the sinners—those “dead in their sins” (Ephesians 2:1).

The attitude and acts of Jesus clearly demonstrate God’s love for all human beings and his desire to be reconciled to all and to bless all. Jesus came to give life and to give it abundantly (John 10:10 NRSV). God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself (2 Corinthians 5:19). Jesus came as a ransom to free captives of sin—their own and the evil done against them.

But there is more to the story—a “more” that should not be viewed as contradicting or in tension with what we just surveyed. Contrary to the view of some, there is no necessity to think that there are contrasting or conflicting aspects within Jesus’ heart, mind and purposes. There is no need to see some sort of internal balancing act, now tipping one way then correcting and tipping the other. There is no need to think that Jesus is trying to accomplish two divergent things at the same time such as love and righteousness or mercy and holiness. Such imagined tensions might exist within us in our fallenness, but they do not exist within the heart of Jesus or his Father.

Jesus, like the Father, welcomes all people. However, he does so with a particular purpose in mind. His love has direction to it. He engages all who will listen to reveal something that is generally hidden. He came to give something in particular—to serve all in a way that points in a particular direction, that has a certain goal or end in mind.

Rather than an end point, his welcome to all is the starting point of an ongoing relationship. That relationship is one of his giving and serving and of our receiving what he offers. Jesus does not offer any old thing or serve us in any old way (including the way we might prefer). Rather, he offers us only the best that he has—and that is himself. And in offering himself he gives us the way, the truth and the life. Nothing more. Nothing else.

Jesus’ attitude and acts of receiving and welcoming call for a certain response to his self-giving. In essence, it calls for receiving what he offers. In contrast to that receptive response, there is the response of rejecting what Jesus offers, which means rejecting Jesus himself. By Jesus drawing all people to himself he is looking for the response of reception. And as Jesus indicates, that response requires a certain attitude, a certain approach toward him.

Jesus thus announced to his disciples that in his presence the kingdom of God had drawn near. All of the kingdom’s blessings are available in him. However, Jesus immediately indicated what response that truth and reality calls for: “Repent and believe in the good news” of the kingdom’s arrival. A refusal to repent and put faith in Jesus and his kingdom amounts to a rejection of Jesus and the benefits of his kingdom.

A willingness to repent requires an attitude of humble receptivity. And that is what Jesus is looking for in extending his welcome, his acceptance. For it is only through humility that we are able to receive what Jesus has offered. And note that Jesus offers his gift before any such response is made. In fact, it is the offer of the gift that calls forth the response.

Repentance and belief are thus the responses of reception to what Jesus has already offered. Those responses are not behaviors or attitudes that pre-condition Jesus’ offer, or determine to whom he makes the offer. Jesus’ offer is for the sake of its reception—not for the sake of its rejection. Of what benefit would such rejection be? None.

The receptive attitude Jesus is always looking for in response to his offer of himself is indicated in a variety of his sayings: “For the Son of Man came to seek and save the lost” (Luke 19:10 NRSV). “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick” (Luke 5:31). “Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it” (Mark 10:15). We must be like the soil that “receives the word” of the sower “with joy” (Luke 8:13). “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33).

Receiving what Jesus offers, and so benefitting from what he gives, requires acknowledging that we are lost and need to be found, that we are ill and need a physician to heal us, that we come to Jesus to receive with empty hands, not hoping to make an exchange with him. For like a child we do not presume to have anything that he needs. This is why Jesus indicates that it is the “poor in spirit” who are receiving the blessings of God and his kingdom, not those who regard themselves as spiritually rich (Matthew 5:3).

Christian teaching has summarized this attitude of receptivity to what God in Christ freely offers to all his creatures as one of humility. This is an attitude that admits that we are not self-sufficient but must receive life from our creator and redeemer. The opposite of such a trusting and receptive heart has been called pride. In the context of church teaching, pride is an attitude that asserts autonomy from God, a trust in oneself, a confidence in one’s own adequacy, even in the face of God. Such pride is offended by the suggestion that one needs to receive anything significant from God, most especially his forgiveness and mercy. Pride then results in a self-righteous refusal to receive anything essential from God, particularly those things you think you can provide for yourself. Pride insists on paying its own way, getting what it deserves. It insists that it does not need grace or charity from God—that it can provide itself with life sufficient for its own purposes. Pride refuses to “be beholden” to anyone or anything, including God. Pride says nothing really needs to be changed in us. We are fine just as we are. In contrast, humility recognizes that one cannot give oneself life. Instead, it admits its need not only for help, but for the transformation, renewal, restoration and reconciliation that only God has to give. Humility acknowledges our inexcusable fault and our utter helplessness to renew ourselves. We need total grace from God or we are lost. Our pride needs to be put to death that we might receive life from God himself. Receptivity to receiving what Jesus has to offer and humility are inseparable.

In the end, Jesus welcomes all in order to give them himself. His welcome is thus purposeful. It leads somewhere. His purpose necessarily includes what reception of him requires. Jesus tells us that he has come to enable the worship of his Father (John 4:23). This is his most comprehensive way of indicating the purpose of his welcome and acceptance of us. Worship is a way of indicating a total response to who God is as the only one who is worthy of our ultimate trust and loyalty. Jesus’ self-giving leads to a true knowledge of the Father and a receptivity to his Holy Spirit. It results in worshipping God alone through the Son and in the Spirit, that is, to worshipping God in truth and in spirit. For in offering himself to us, Jesus gives himself to be our Lord, our prophet, priest and king. In doing so he reveals the Father and sends us his Spirit. He gives of himself according to who he is, not according to who he is not, nor according to our wishes or imaginations.

And this means that Jesus’ way involves discernment—it does sort through and notice the kinds of responses made to him (and to all that he offers). Jesus recognizes those who are rejecting him and his word and so those who are rejecting a true knowledge of God and right worship. He discriminates between those who are receiving and those who are not receiving. However, this discrimination does not mean that Jesus has a different attitude or intention other than that which we surveyed above. There is no reason to suppose that Jesus’ love is diminished or contradicted by his acts of discernment. Jesus does not condemn those who reject his welcome and invitation to follow him. But he does warn them concerning the consequences of such rejection. Jesus’ acceptance and love calls for a particular kind of response, not giving no response or any sort of response.

Next time, in the second part of this article, we’ll look more at that response.

SE Asia update

This update is from Rod Matthews, GCI mission developer in Southeast Asia and the Pacific.

Thailand

We are saddened by the recent death of Moo Lah Shi, the long-time, faithful pastor of GCI’s congregation of Karen people in a refugee camp in Thailand. He is greatly missed. Malaysian senior pastor, Wong Mein Kong and I recently visited the Karen congregation (pictured below), which has about 30 members. In Moo Lah Shi’s absence, a faithful member named Goro who is in his 80s coordinates the meetings, even though he lives about 100 miles away.

Karen congregation
Karen congregation
Karen church service
Karen church service

We arrived at the church building just inside the camp boundary to a warm welcome of smiles and sign language, since only a couple of the members speak English. Though we expected only a discussion of the group’s plans for the future, we were treated to a worship service. Sharing communion reinforced our shared heritage and long association. It was a delightful gathering.

The Karen congregation’s future depends on the vagaries of the difficult political situation, including plans for refugee resettlement. Most importantly, however, is what God has planned. Seeking to follow God’s lead, we are arranging to have a Karen-speaking Christian teacher from Myanmar, who is a friend of GCI, visit this group, helping them as a translator. Our prayers are with the health and capacity of Goro to provide for their pastoral care in the interim. In my message, I reminded the congregation that people around the world are praying for them and they are never forgotten. Their appreciation was evident.

Bangladesh

The Spirit’s work in the lives of people in southern Bangladesh is especially encouraging in a country with exceptional challenges. In November I joined National Director John Biswas, in travelling to our mission base in Sathsimulia. We were joined by GCI members Geoff Sole from the UK and Pastor Chris Starkey from Canada.

Malihara school
Malihara school

On the way, we visited rural schools in Malihara (pictured at right) and Batajor. These and 11 other schools are run by our Bengali mission, which is named the Bengali Evangelical Association (BEA). A visit from BEA director John Biswas along with other international visitors was, for them, a big event. These schools are tuition free to the students. In each case, the head teacher is paid a small salary from BEA’s donation-raised funds.

Upon arrival at our mission base at Sathsimulia, we were given a royal welcome. The scheduled events included the official opening of a new community building (pictured below) that has recently been completed. The local community joined in the dedication, with over 300 people sharing in a light lunch of celebration. The building is a much-needed replacement for an older wooden building that had to be demolished. It will be used for church meetings and classes for nurse’s assistants and gospel workers. Donations from the GCI home office and from church members all over the world helped fund the project.

Community Building
Community Building
Barisal service
Barisal service

The next day, a worship service held in the city of Barisal confirmed the establishment of a new GCI congregation there. About 40 of us met in a rented hall (pictured at right). The international visitors gave messages translated into Bengali. In the afternoon, Geoff Sole chaired the first Life Club meeting to be held in Bangladesh. Over 20 attended.

On our return trip to Dhaka we visited another of BEA’s rural schools. In these visits, the generous hospitality of our hosts was overwhelming. Despite their poverty, we were given more fine food than we could consume.

Taking the gospel to Bangladesh involves serious challenges and necessitates a sensitive, discerning and respectful approach. The BEA mission center trains and sends nurses’ assistants into the surrounding communities to provide health care and advice as an expression of the love of God for every human being. The gospel workers are trained to be ready to share the gospel with interested people and to use discernment and wisdom as a reflection of God’s respect and love for all people.

The rural congregations and the associated schools for children are an investment in the future of the families and local communities as well as the entire nation. Over 1500 people attend these rural congregations. The program of gifting families with a goat for milking and breeding has raised the health and living standards of the people.

Interest in and respect for what BEA does in this area is spreading steadily–much like what Jesus said about the kingdom in Matthew 13:33. We are learning that effectiveness is not dependent on size. Thanks for your prayers.

Arnold Clauson

Here is an update on the health situation of GCI district and church pastor Arnold Clauson. This information is from his daughter Rachelle who is helping with Arnold’s care.

Though Arnold’s energy level is quite low by our standards, he recently experienced some improvement. He is receiving frequent dialysis, treatment for his cancer and supplementation to deal with his anemia. Thanks for your continued prayer for his healing and for strength and comfort for his wife Trish and their daughters. Cards may be sent to:

Arnold and Trish Clauson
109 Melrose Circle
Denison, TX 75020-2697

Good news from all over

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Joe and Tammy TkachHappy New Year to all of you! And thanks to those who sent me cards, letters and emails on my 62nd birthday. Also thanks for the positive comments about the recent Advent-themed Speaking of Life videos.

My prayers are with all who are experiencing the record-breaking cold in the US. Betty Johannsen found a way to blow a stunningly beautiful bubble in the extreme cold. Her husband, GCI pastor Doug Johannsen, photographed it and his picture is now being used on a local TV station’s Facebook page:

bubble

Bengali ChristmasI pray that everyone experienced great joy in celebrating our Lord’s birth. John Biswas invited me to speak at the Christmas service of his congregation in San Bernardino, California. Most of the service (pictured at right) was in the Bengali language although most of those attending there are fluent in English.

A new year always brings with it great expectations. Though 2013 left much of the world in a terrible mess, we do hope for better in 2014, though the likely reality is that in the year ahead some things will stay the same, some will get better and others will get worse. Of course, “better” or “worse” depend on one’s point of view. And everyone has a particular point of view, which may or may not be based on fact.

Though much of what we see going on in the world saddens us, I find joy in seeing what God is doing, often behind the scenes, to ensure the eternal future of all human beings. That sense of joy is greatly magnified as we join in what Jesus is doing as his co-ministers. Let me share some of what I’ve experienced recently.

Though I’m unable to travel to the Philippines to help with the typhoon recovery work there, I feel a personal involvement in having contributed financially. I’ve also found joy in hearing reports from the many people in our fellowship who are serving there on the front lines.

I’ve also experienced great joy in hearing about the growth of our summer camps. 2013 was a successful camp year in every way. Our team is planning an even more ambitious program for 2014. I cannot overemphasize the positive impact these camps have in the lives of thousands of young campers and hundreds of staff members. Please pray for the camp currently going on in Australia (you can follow them at https://www.facebook.com/pages/GCI-Youth-Australia/143788422338178?ref=hl).

Every day I’m reminded that our denomination, though small, makes a significant impact around the world. Hector Barrero, our mission developer in South and Central America, told me about his recent visit to GCI congregations in Honduras and El Salvador. Our members there are enthusiastically involved in the work of Jesus in their communities despite many limitations. Kalengule Kaoma, our mission developer in East, West and Central Africa, told me about his recent visit to Uganda where he met several groups who are interested in joining us. He also learned of two pastors who are interested in planting GCI churches in the area. We wait to see what God will do next!

Syrian childrenSusi Albrecht, who works in our home office, told me about the volunteer work her father, GCI elder Hermann Birawe is doing in Zurich, Switzerland. Although Hermann struggles with health issues, he is working with some Syrian children (pictured at left) who are refugees from the ongoing civil war in Syria. Because Hermann lived through a war himself some 70 years ago, he connects with and understands these children in a deeply personal way. Susi told me that his work with these children is a very bright spot in her father’s life. Isn’t God amazing? Not only does he help those who need it, but he blesses those who provide it. Truly, all are included in the love of God!

In this troubled world, people like Hector, Kalengule and Hermann are bright spots. They remind us that no matter our situation, we can shine as lights in a dark world. Our works do not save us, but because we are saved, we can work. And when we work by faith in the grace of our Lord, the glory of God shines forth so that all may give him glory. Let’s work together in 2014, fulfilling our calling to share with Jesus in the ministry that he will be doing in and through us.

Your brother in Christ,

Joseph Tkach

PS. Beginning in this issue, we’re publishing a two-part article from Gary Deddo titled “Jesus’ Acceptance.” It helps us understand what we mean when we say You’re included. I encourage you to read it and to share it with others.

Merry Christmas

joeandtammyChristmas greetings!

Sometimes it’s nice to state the obvious—that’s what most Christmas cards do. In celebrating Christmas, it’s not the date of Jesus’ birth that’s important, but the stunning fact of his incarnation. In his infinite creativity and freedom, God reached down to us by becoming one of us. In doing so, he delivered the joyous good news of who he is for us and who he has made us to be in him.

Irenaeus, the second century Christian teacher, put it this way:

Adoption
(c) Mercy Ink – used with permission

For, in what way could we be partakers of the adoption of sons, unless we had received from Him through the Son that fellowship which refers to Himself, unless His Word, having been made flesh, had entered into communion with us? Wherefore also He passed through every stage of life, restoring to all communion with God (Against Heresies, Book 3, 18.6-7).

As the apostle Paul explained, the eternal, all-powerful Son of God willingly put himself through this profound change, taking upon himself our fallen human nature and mortal body:

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich (2 Corinthians 8:9).

The angels celebrated with great joy when Jesus was born. Let us join in the celebration!

Home office staff 2013
Here are members of our home office staff who work for GCI or GCS. Not pictured are Susi Albrecht, Lorenzo Arroyo, Randy Bloom, Gary Deddo, Charles Fleming, Glenn Gordon, John Halford, Ted Johnston, John McKenna, Michael Morrison, Anthony Mullins, Rick Shallenberger, Bernie Schnippert and Greg Williams. Most of this staff work in Glendora, others work offsite; some are full time, others part time.

Along with the other members of our home office staff (pictured and listed at right), Tammy and I say “Thanks and Merry Christmas” to our pastors, ministry leaders and all the other GCI members who serve so selflessly within our part of the body of Christ.

2013 has been an amazing year in our journey together and it looks like 2014 will be another. It’s exciting to think about what God may have in store for us. We deeply appreciate your service during the year now closing and look forward to our service together, with Christ, in the year ahead.

Your brother in Christ,

Joseph Tkach

PS: Weekly Update will be published next on January 8. The home office will close on December 24 and reopen January 2. In the meantime, please note in this issue the announcement about the 2014 US regional conferences. The first one is in Southern California in February.

2014 US regional conferences

Regional conf 2014 logoGCI’s 2014 US regional conferences will be held in seven locations. With the theme shown at right, these conferences will celebrate our journey toward GCnextplanting seeds for GCI’s next generation.

We rejoice in the way God is leading us—sending the Spirit who helps us share in Jesus’ faith, love and hope (1 Thessalonians 1:2-5). At each conference, congregational and denominational leaders will report on what they have seen God doing and then share their dreams concerning what he will yet do. As you’ll see in the schedule below, considerable time will be given for small and large group discussions where we’ll come together to share our own stories, prayerfully seeking to discern what God is doing and how we may join in.

The 2014 regional conferences are open to all GCI members and friends. GCI-USA senior pastors receive continuing education credit for their attendance. Keep an eye on GCI Weekly Update for further information and registration. The costs at each location will be about the same as two years ago.

Here are the conference dates and locations:

Date Hotel/City
February 21-23 Doubletree by Hilton-Ontario Airport; Ontario, California
March. 14-16 Red Lion Hotel-Vancouver at the Key; Vancouver, Washington
April 4-6 Crowne Plaza Chicago-Northbrook; Northbrook, Illinois
May 16-18 Doubletree by Hilton-Somerset, Somerset, New Jersey
June 20-22 Embassy Suites Lexington; Lexington, Kentucky
July 11-13 Omi Dallas Hotel at Park West; Dallas, Texas
August 8-10 Hilton Orlando/Altamonte Springs; Orlando, Florida

 

Here is the schedule that will be followed at each conference location:

Day/time Event
Friday
4:30-5:30 pm Meet with your district pastor (open to all GCI members)
5:45-6:45 pm Dinner
6:50-8:25 pm Faith – plenary session with worship and message from CAD director Dr. Dan Rogers
8:30 pm Drop-in reception for pastors and their spouses
Saturday
8:45-9:35 am Morning devotional time with prayer and message on spiritual formation
9:50-10:50 am Small group discussions (addressing various topics)
11:05-12:15 pm Large group discussion (sharing our stories)
12:25-1:25 pm Lunch
1:30-2:30 PM Small group discussions (debrief what we’ve heard so far)
2:50-3:30 pm Large group discussion (report back on debriefings)
4:00-5:15 pm Love – plenary session with message from GCI president Dr. Joseph Tkach
5:45-6:45 pm Dinner
evening Free time (optional Praise & Worship gathering)
Sunday
8:40-9:30 am Presentation from Dr. Gary Deddo
9:40-10:40 am Small group discussions (addressing various topics)
11:00 am-12:30 pm Hope – closing worship service; sermon from CAD associate director Greg Williams

At the Ontario, Chicago, Somerset, Lexington and Dallas conference locations, district pastors will meet on Friday afternoon, beginning with lunch at noon.

Mexican youth camp

This update is from Samuel Mercado who directs GCI’s youth camp in Mexico and serves as director of youth ministry for GCI Mexico.

Mexico bus rideOur 2013 Mexican national youth camp began with a 17 hour trip to Mexico City for those traveling from afar. From there a rented bus took the group to Ticumán where we reached a place called El Monte, which means “small mountain.”

The bus couldn’t make it up the mountain, so late at night we stretched our legs and carried our food and equipment uphill. We arrived with the help of a few flashlights and the moonlight.

Mexico rapellingOur camp, which included about 50 people, was held from November 15 through 18 in a location away from the bustle of city life. Activities included sports, games and swimming. We also had rock climbing and rappelling, which gave us a chance to exercise our faith!

Mexico worshipJoy-filled worship during camp was provided by Natanael Cruz who is the pastor of our church in Mexico City. He was joined by musicians from his congregation.

Messages in worship services and classes were given by our special guest, Anthony Mullins, director of Generation Ministries in the US. He talked about the power of listening to the story of others, telling our own story, then presenting Jesus’ story. He also taught us to study someone and tell them directly the qualities we see in them. We practiced doing this in small groups, gaining deeper communion together.

Mexico AnthonyAnthony (at center in picture at left) also talked about how our lives reflect what we believe and who we are. Our actions must demonstrate the work of God in us. Anthony showed that God’s most repeated command is, “Do not be afraid.” He discussed overcoming our fears in order to do the work of God. Natanael Cruz gave a message about keeping our bodies pure as the temple of the Holy Spirit. We also studied GenMin camp curriculum, “Kairos, It’s Time,” telling us that it’s time to Belong, Believe, Become, Behave and Begin.

Mexico class

Overall, the camp was characterized by great fellowship among the young people—sharing laughs, games, discussions, plans and projects for the future. Our camp is becoming a pathway for identifying and developing new leaders. We are initiating a national denominational effort to train and equip these young emerging leaders in theology, ministry and spiritual formation. We covet your prayers for God to guide us in helping these leaders develop according to God’s will for them.

mexico camp group 2

Christmas outreach

The following update is a reprint of an article in the Tipp City, Ohio newspaper announcing the Christmas open house conducted by CrossRoads Christian Fellowship—GCI’s congregation that meets in the heart of Tipp City’s historic district. The photographs of the open house have been added.

Church Open House Provides Unique Tour Attractions

TIPP CITY – No trip to Tipp City’s upcoming “Christmas in the Village” on Dec. 7 would be complete without visiting the “village church.” The century-plus old sanctuary that once housed St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and is now home to CrossRoads Christian Fellowship, will be decked out in a vintage Currier and Ives holiday motif, with a number of unique displays that harken back to holidays of yesteryear.

The church is a stop on the Holiday Home Tour trolley that will be taking visitors between the downtown and the tour streets of Broadway and Sixth Street.

“Our beautiful sanctuary and fellowship hall will be bathed in a winter wonderland of lights, holiday greenery, Christmas trees and a for-real antique ‘one horse open sleigh,’” said Pastor Jim Valekis.

Open house 3

Open house 4
Pastor Jim Valekis

Pastor Valekis invited visitors to “step back in time 100 years to a Christmas of yesterday, and you’ll get to see a collection of 17th and 18th century working grandfather clocks loaned to us for the celebration by the NAWCC (National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors).”

The pastor noted that CrossRoads will also host a Country Classics Furniture Collections Display, a rare public display of the master woodworking of local furniture craftsman and artisan Chris Bayman.

Another special activity on Dec. 7 is the presence of the One Bistro food truck. One Bistro is a unique “pay it forward concept” based in Miamisburg that offers gourmet food at whatever price people can afford to pay. The One Bistro concept works to bring people together with those who can help them meet challenges, overcome addiction, find answers, etc. “Their food is amazing,” Jim said. “And their vision of people giving each other a hand-up, not a hand out, is very inspiring.”

Also featured at the church throughout the Dec. 7 tour day will be an enchanted forest of stuffed animals, gingerbread people, and costumed carolers, ready to spread some Christmas cheer. Children are encouraged to come visit the fun and festive display.

The vocal talents of the Wright State Men’s Chorale will also help visitors get into the spirit of the season.

“And last, but hopefully not least: Our first ever attempt to project the Sistine Chapel onto our arched chapel ceiling through the magic of digital wizardry,” Jim said, adding that “We invite you to bring your whole family and celebrate family holiday traditions and the warmth of a small-town Christmas.”

Typhoon recovery

GCI Philippines national director Eugene Guzon recently visited the areas of the Philippines devastated by super typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda). Here is his update.

Estimated casualties are now about 6000, although the relief agencies believe that there are more. In Tacloban City and other coastal towns in Leyte and Samar, I have seen that the damage is indescribably terrible—massive and long-term reparation work is needed, including rebuilding of businesses and homes for the residents. A significant amount of the relief work by international agencies has concluded. Much now remains for the Filipino government workers.

Tacloban devastation 2

Tacloban, the center of the disaster area, is serving as an “exodus city” from which many people are still evacuating the area. Power lines are still down, although the government is trying to speed up restoration of power. There remains a tremendous amount of debris, crumpled structures, long lines for fuel and small makeshift homes and stores. As we personally hear survival stories directly from people and see their scars, we see the tenacious and hopeful spirit in their hearts. One sign I saw says it well: “Roofless, helpless, but not hopeless!”

Tacloban devastation

We thank God that our members survived the devastation. Some remain in their home communities and others have relocated. During the worship service held last weekend in Cebu City, our pastors who have been directly affected by the typhoon shared stories of God’s deliverance.

We praise God for our GCI family worldwide, who in the aftermath of the storm rallied to let our affected members and their families know that they are loved and cared for. Financial assistance from GCI members has been a huge blessing. Aid came from our members in the Philippines, the US (via the GCI Disaster Relief Fund), the UK, Europe, Canada, South Africa and New Zealand. The outpouring of compassion and financial support has given our affected members the means to begin the long road to recovery.

New grandparents

Cozzis
Suzanne, Luciano and grandbaby

We’re delighted to announce that GCI pastor Luciano Cozzi and his wife Suzanne have become grandparents!

The Cozzis’ daughter Elisabetta Iannelli and her husband Alan Iannelli gave birth on December 2 to Lucas Lee Iannelli.

Luciano wrote: “Our whole family stands in awe at the miracle of a new life. We are grateful that both mother and baby are well (daddy is still recovering!).”

Luciano's grandbaby
Father, mother and baby