LeadershipConnexion 2nd QRT 2021

PennDel Ministry Network | Summer 2021
FEATURE ARTICLE
Breath & Power
pages 8-9

OCTOBER 4-6, 2021
We hope to see you and your team
at this year’s THRIVE Conference.
SPECIAL
GUESTS:
REV. SAMUEL
RODRIGUEZ
DR. ROBERT CROSBY
PAMELA CROSBY
For more info and to REGISTER:
penndel.org/thrive2021
2
Pennsylvania-Delaware Ministry Network
4651 Westport Drive
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Read online: penndel.org/connexion
Editor:
Managing Editor:
Donald J. Immel
Carole Bongiorno
Volume 67 Number 2 - (USPS 165-700) is the official periodical published quarterly
by the Pennsylvania-Delaware District Council of the Assemblies of God. Periodical
postage paid at Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Circulation Stands at Approximately
7,500. POSTMASTER, Send address changes to: Pennsylvania-Delaware District
Council, 4651 Westport Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055-4887
Executive Presbytery
Superintendent
Donald J. Immel
Assistant Superintendent Steven DeFrain
Secretary/Treasurer
Jeff Marshall
Timothy Bunney Southwest Suburban - SWS
Mark Caston East Central - EC
Ryan Coon At-Large Under 40
Jeff Dyer Delaware - DEL
James Goodman North Central West - NCW
Wayne Jackson Southwest Metro - SWM
Brad Leach Greater Philadelphia Area - GPA
Dwan Newsome South Central - SC
Kwaku Owusu-Boachie At-Large Ethnic
James Pentz North Central - NC
Randall Rhoads South Central East - SCE
Lisa Rodriguez At-Large Female
Wayne Schaffer South Central West - SCW
Allan Thorpe Northwest - NW
David Twiss Northeast - NE
General Presbyters
Donald J. Immel
Jeff Marshall
Jason Lamer
Honorary General Presbyter
Philip Bongiorno
PennDel Superintendent Emeritus

THRIVING
in a Post-Pandemic Culture
Paul Lynde used to star in a sitcom in the early seventies
called “The Paul Lynde Show.” In the opening of each
episode someone would ask, “so how goes the rat race?”
Lynde would answer, “the rats are winning!” As we come out
of the pandemic, I’m afraid that fatigue has caused many of
us to feel that the virus has caused us to lose more than a few
attendees. Churches, congregations and staffs have divided
over masks, vaccines and what feels safe. We know that the
time is coming to fully re-engage, but many leaders are unsure
when to pull the trigger. The reality is that the virus is still being
spread (1350 new cases per day for the last 7 days: 5.25.21),
and the optics of how we operate are still very important in
communicating with empathetic compassion.
Here are three ways that we can THRIVE
as we head out of the pandemic:
PLAN your fall outreaches NOW. We can always pivot
regarding the details of maximum safe capacity, but we cannot
pivot if we have no plans in place! During the summer months
outdoor activities will be welcomed because they provide
community in a safe environment.
PROVIDE ministry that addresses anxiety. Preaching a series
on how the Lord helps us navigate our fears or having a Christian
counselor as a guest will be both relevant and meaningful as
people process a long season of heightened stress and anxiety.
Dr. Dobbins presented a series entitled, “The Believer and His
Mental Health,” many years ago. The topic continues to be
applicable in a post-pandemic culture. Small groups and support
groups are also ministries that can help people of faith engage in
studies, discussions, and support that provide encouragement
and a safe space to process their fears or the anxious condition
of their loved ones. Seeking the Lord in prayer and worship
should also be identified as a mentally healthy soul exercise: “I
sought the LORD, and He heard me, and delivered me from
all my fears.” (Psalms 34:4; NKJV)
PROMOTE your fully open, fully safe re-engagement plan.
Patrick Lencioni suggests that good leadership provides clarity,
communicates clarity, and over-communicates clarity in order
to create organizational health. This applies to churches and
ministries. Someone recently said, “by the time you’re getting
tired of saying it (your message), people are just beginning to
really hear it!”
At the writing of this article, we are about to enter the summer
season. I am anticipating that by the fall and school season,
most schools, universities and society in general will be (mostly)
fully functional. Those who are prone to experience anxiety due
to pre-existing conditions will continue to wear masks and avoid
close contact. Churches would be wise to plan for the ongoing
accommodations for those who are “covid-sensitive” with hand
sanitization stations and mask only sections.
The past year feels like it has been a rat race!
We have survived…now it’s time to THRIVE!
NETWORK SUPERINTENDENT | DONALD J. IMMEL | 717.795.5921 | DON@PENNDEL.ORG
Welcome Carl & Andrea Redding
We are pleased to welcome CARL & ANDREA REDDING
back to the PennDel Ministry Network as our new Bongiorno
Conference Center Executive Directors! Carl, a Valley Forge
graduate, has had a long history with PennDel. He served
as a youth pastor at First AG, Wilkes-Barre (1997 – 2002)
and Mount Morris Gospel Tabernacle (2002 – 2017).
Most recently, Carl served as Lead Pastor at Macomb
AG, Macomb, IL. (2017 – 2021), where he also served as a
sectional presbyter. Andrea recently graduated from Evangel
University with a master’s degree in business administration.
(Andrea graduated at the same time as their daughter
Abigale, who graduated from Evangel with a bachelor’s
degree in small profit business and history!) Welcome home
Carl and Andrea – we look forward to working together to
develop our camping and retreat ministries at our Network
Conference Center!
Here’s a little insight into Carl:
What is your greatest passion?
Seeing people come to know Jesus
What is your favorite song?
Victory in Jesus
What is your best way to relax?
Being in a tree stand in the Fall
What is a personal big dream that you
have?
To hunt elk with my bow!
Great Bible verse:
“I can do all things through Christ who
strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13; NKJV)
LEADERSHIPconnexion | Spring 2021
3

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT | STEVE DEFRAIN | 484.686.4843 | sdefrain@penndel.org
In the Book of Wisdom, we read: “The wise man saves
for the future, but the foolish man spends whatever he
gets.” (Proverbs 21:20/TLB) To me, this verse speaks about
personal development and growth. It asks the question, “Will I
become a disciplined saver or live like many others who spend
every cent they make?” The latter option is way too stressful for
me because there would be no room for life’s emergencies or
any place to draw from when life happens. If there’s one thing
we know – life happens!
Life happened to us a few years ago when the sand mound
pump went, the engine on the riding mower blew and
something happened to one of our vehicles. Altogether, the
repair bill would be over $3000. Liz would ask me where the
money was coming from, and I would tell her we were okay,
not wanting to burden her. I knew things were serious when
she wrote me a letter (one of only three in our forty-three years
of marriage). She said, “I need you to show me where we are
getting the money to fix everything.” That crisis changed my
mind on the importance of saving for emergencies.
According to Bankrate.com, fewer than four in ten Americans
can handle an unexpected $1,000 expense, such as a
medical bill or car repair. This number comes after the federal
government’s stimulus funding and unemployment aid. This
statistic means that many of us are not building financial margins
in our lives.
The beauty is that you don’t have to stop once you create a
savings account for emergencies. You can have a separate
account for just about anything. You can start a savings account
for a vacation, a car replacement, house repairs, your grandkids
- anything!
Building
Margin
in Your Life
“Will I become a disciplined saver or live like
many others who spend every cent they make?”
However, don’t stop the savings journey until you save for
the big one: retirement savings. Chris Hogan says, “Social
Security is the icing on the cake - not the whole cake.” Anything
you get from Social Security should be a fringe benefit.
Sources differ, but the story remains the same. The average
American has nothing saved for retirement – or it is so tiny
that it won’t help. 28% of people in their sixties have less than
$50,000. Based on these numbers, it doesn’t sound like we are
living like the Proverbs wise man.
It’s never too late to start. No one else is going to do this
for us. Today, it’s time for action. Here are some tips to
take:
» Put your money to work today
Tweak the budget, reduce debt and start saving each month.
Now is the time to put the power of compound interest to
work. Remember, everything you pay interest on is a penalty,
and everything you make interest on is a reward.
» Automate your savings
Set it up so that a certain amount leaves your checking
account or paycheck monthly and automatically goes into a
retirement account, such as a 403(b) or a Roth IRA. The good
news is that you won’t miss it after a while and will learn to
live without it.
» Retire debt-free
Remember that a paid-for-house is a part of your retirement
funding too.
I made plenty of mistakes along the way but learned and made
better choices too. Remember, it is a journey with lots of twists
and turns, and I would be honored to continue the conversation!
4

A Summer of Soul-Care
A
few years ago I was backpacking with my boys through the hills of Pennsylvania. Because of their age, I had to carry
more than my fair weight of the gear. One of the provisions I packed was extra water, which was packed at the bottom
of my pack. As I refilled the larger container of water the first morning we awoke on the trail, I placed it at the bottom
of my backpack under all the other provisions. Little did I realize that I did not quite tighten the top. As we hiked in the summer
heat, the water began to leak out little by little. Because of the heat and the speed at which the water was leaking out, I didn’t
realize what was happening until many hours later when we went for the reserve of water I had packed earlier that morning.
As we stopped to refill our water bottles, we quickly realized the dilemma… No Water, Great Thirst!
The MINISTRY (whether as a missionary, chaplain, lead pastor, youth, children, young adults, etc…) has always been that
which drains us. Don’t take me wrong, it is an honor and a joy to fulfill God’s call upon our lives. However, even Jesus
verbalized the physical, spiritual and emotional toll ministry places upon the servants of the Lord. In fact, Dr. Luke identified
these moments for us in his gospel. He watched as the crowds invaded Jesus' space and He felt the need to regularly
withdraw to a solitary place (Luke 5:16). He also recorded the interaction of Jesus’ healing virtue flowing from Him and Jesus
saying, “Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me.” (Luke 8:46). While Jesus was fully God, He
was also bridled by His humanity.
The last sixteen months of ministry during a pandemic have increased the stress, pressure, expectations, conflicts, pivots,
technological shifts and overall weight of ministry spiritual leaders have had to shoulder. Like me and my boys on the trail, we
are tired and thirsty. Perhaps like my empty water bottle in my backpack, you need some refreshment to keep going but you
are not sure where to get it! Let me suggest three strategies to make this a Summer of Soul-Care!
1. 2. 3.
RE-TREAT:
Like our dilemma with the
empty water bottle, we
knew we would somehow
have to find a source of
water. This source would
not be found on our trail.
We had to take the time
to leave the trail, go find
a stream, and utilize our
water cleansing system
we brought. Like Jesus
leaving the crowds of
people, going to a solitary
place, at times we have
to “retreat.” We are not
retreating in defeat, rather
we are retreating to
get reconnected to our
source.
RE-FILL:
This will sound a bit elementary, but… “a bottle
can’t fill itself.” Once we found the stream, we
were able to refill our bottles and reserves. We
are much the same. When we are empty, we
need a source outside of ourselves in order to
refill. This Summer is a chance for all of us to
visit the source of our strength, hope and life.
You can’t fill yourself. Scripture identifies two
primary sources by which we are filled. First,
Jesus identified Himself as one source as He
describes the vine and the branches (John 15).
Now through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, we
are filled and called to be continually filled (Eph.
5:18). The Apostle Paul expresses the other
source as other believers in Ephesians 4:16,
“From him the whole body, joined and held
together by every supporting ligament,
grows and builds itself up in love, as each
part does its work.”
RE-FRESH:
These are the regular activities
that keep us healthy and whole.
Athletes provide a great example.
After physical activity, professional
athletes will dip into an ice bath,
put a compression suit on, stretch,
or schedule a “cupping” session.
All these therapeutic strategies
help their bodies recover and
replenish following intense physical
activity. I would like to suggest
we, as spiritual leaders, also need
to schedule regular refreshing
strategies following intense relational
and spiritual activities. Our spiritual,
emotional and relational health
impacts the Kingdom work we are
called to accomplish.
MINISTER CARE & CHURCH RECALIBRATION JASON TOURVILLE | 717.795.5921 | jason@penndel.org
Each of these listed above begin with “RE”. The reason is that none are one and done.
They must be a part of our ongoing rhythms in order to keep healthy and whole. If you find
the water bottle of your soul has leaked out or it has been poured out in activity, please
make this a Summer of Soul-Care. You are worth it!
LEADERSHIPconnexion | Summer 2021 5

SECRETARY/TREASURER | JEFF MARSHALL | 717.795.5921 | jeff@penndel.org
Meet Our New Presbyters
At Summit21 there were five new presbyters elected and ratified by the body.
We wanted you to have an opportunity to meet our new presbyters.
Brad Leach James Goodman Wayne Schaffer Jeff Dyer Jason Lamer
Brad Leach, Presbyter of the Greater Philadelphia
Section (gpapresbyter@penndel.org)
He serves as the founder and Lead Pastor of City Life Church in South
Philadelphia. Brad has been married to Leah Leach for thirteen years,
and they have four children, Gabby (11), Claire (10), Caleb (8) and Karis
(5). Brad received his B.A. in Preaching and Evangelism from Central
Bible College and his M.A. in Church Leadership from the Assemblies of
God Theological Seminary. Brad enjoys playing and watching basketball
(Go Sixers!) and spending time with his family.
James Goodman, Presbyter of the North Central West
Section (ncwpresbyter@penndel.org)
He serves as the founder and Lead Pastor of Life Community Church
in Dubois. James has been married to Niki for thirteen years, they have
three children, Hannah (6), Ethan (5), and Micah (3). James received a
degree in Pastoral Ministry from the University of Valley Forge, where he
also met his wife. James enjoys playing and watching sports, especially
golf. His favorites teams are the Steelers, Penguins and Pirates.
Wayne Schaffer, Presbyter of the South Central West
Section (scwpresbyter@penndel.org)
He serves as Lead Pastor of New Life Worship Center in Altoona. Wayne
has been married to Suzanne for twenty-nine years. They have two adult
children, Michael, and Carley Wilson (Derrick) and one grandson, James
Wilson. Wayne attended Jimmy Swaggart Bible College, the University of
Valley Forge and Phoenix Masters Commission. Wayne enjoys date night
with his wife visiting the various restaurants in the Altoona area.
Jeff Dyer, Presbyter of the Delaware Section
(delpresbyter@penndel.org)
He serves as the founder and Lead Pastor of Deep Water Church in
Wyoming, Delaware. Jeff has been married to Denise for twenty-seven
years. They have two children, Josh (17) and Elle (15). Jeff graduated with
a BS in Chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh, an MA from Fuller
Seminary and Doctorate of Ministry from Assemblies of God Theological
Seminary in Springfield, Missouri. Jeff serves as an adjunct professor with
Global University and Africa’s Hope in Ethiopia. He enjoys lifting weights,
bike riding, hunting, camping, and kayaking.
Jason Lamer, General Presbyter Lead Pastor
(gppastor@penndel.org)
He serves as Lead Pastor of Faith Assembly of God in Uniontown, PA.
Previously, Jason served the PennDel Ministry Network as the Youth
Alive Missionary. Jason has been married to Jodi for twenty-four years.
They have three children Jaron (22) married to Anna, Jalyn (20) married
to Eli and Jordyn (16). Jason graduated with a BA from North Central
University. He enjoys traveling, date nights with Jodi and Pittsburgh
Sports teams.
WITH THE LORD
6
BEVERLY A CLUTE, 88, passed away on February 21. She was
preceded in death by her faithful husband, LaVerne Clute. Beverly was
an active lead pastor’s wife to the women and girls in the churches where
they served. Together, they ministered at the following PennDel churches:
Tunkhannock, Shamokin, Lewistown, Jeannette and Beaver Falls.
ARTHUR L MCDONALD, 73, passed away on February 24. He is
survived by his faithful wife, Drucilla (Lowmaster). Art worked several
years in the tax/accounting business. He was a dedicated clergyman
who enjoyed many years serving his hometown communities of Northern
Cambria/Barnesboro and Cherry Tree with the local fire departments and
a non-AG church.
MILDRED T. PROVARD (Milly), 88, passed away on May 29. She
is survived by her loving husband of almost sixty-seven years, Jack
Provard. In addition to being a daycare director, church organist and
choir participant, Milly had been a faithful lead pastors wife in the
following PennDel churches: Barclay MD, Jersey Shore, New Stanton and
Punxsutawney. During their later years of ministry, Milly supported Jack
while he served on staff at Teen Challenge.
HARRISON TILLEY, 91, of Phillipsburg NJ, passed away May 24.
Harrison was preceded in death by his faithful wife, Elsie Castner Tilley,
with whom he shared over sixty years of marriage until her passing in
2016. Harrison was the lead pastor at the following PennDel Churches:
Cresco, Wrightsville, Mercersburg, Brodheadsville and Greentown.
AMELIA VELAZQUEZ, 60, passed away on March 4. She is survived
by her husband Alex Velazquez, Jr, lead pastor at Oasis City Church,
Philadelphia. Amelia loved her role as lead pastor’s wife and ministry
at Oasis. She cared deeply for the children and residents of the Olney
neighborhood of Philadelphia.

Missions and Travel Amidst Global Pandemic
AGWM is committed to safely and prudently responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
As well, AGWM continues to acknowledge the Great Commission as God-given and
unconditional. Christ’s followers are called to go into all the world and make disciples, even
amidst the challenges of COVID-19.
Although international travel restrictions remain in force, our AGWM missionaries in the
United States are leaving for the fields of their calling as their nations open. Also, depending
upon the specific conditions, restrictions, regulations, guidelines and other relevant factors
applicable to a particular country, trips by missions teams and other short-term ministry
trips may also be possible with the approval and agreement of AGWM personnel. The
health and well- being of our personnel and our partners are of the highest importance to
us. These travel restrictions, and any additional protective steps taken, in no way, change
our focus from fulfilling the Great Commission. AGWM missionaries continue to serve and
establish the Church in over 190 nations around the world. As they follow local pandemic
guidelines, they continue to serve their communities and the gospel continues to advance.
PennDel Project: Honduras
Thank you for partnering with us through these
various projects!
Contributions as of April 30, 2021:
$159,252.56
Opportunities to give to the Honduras Project:
ONLINE: penndel.org
CHECKS made payable & mailed to:
PennDel Ministry Network
ATTN: World Missions Project
4651 Westport Drive
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
WORLD MISSIONS | JEFF MARSHALL | 717.795.5921 | jeff@penndel.org
Missionary Spotlight • Doug & Susan Sayers
Latin America/Caribbean Missionaries
As Latin America/Caribbean (LAC)
Missionaries, God has challenged us to
raise up leaders to go after a generation
of students. The LAC culture is reluctant to such
ministry because it is believed that teenagers
are “resistant fruit” as opposed to “low hanging
fruit.” In spite of this challenge, God has helped
us through relationships in Bolivia to start twenty
youth ministries.
Covid-19 continues to be a challenge, store
shelves have low stock, health care is out of
reach for most and there is little to no vaccines
available. It has been reported that 1% of
Assembly of God pastors in Bolivia have died
from Covid-19, yet the work of God continues.
As Christians, we look for possibilities. For all
things are possible with God.
One of our Bolivian youth pastors contracted
Covid-19. He was fortunate to be able to get
to a hospital. This week he returned home after
forty days in the hospital. Because the church is
not recognized as a business in Bolivia, pastors
do not qualify for health Insurance. The youth
pastor’s hospital bill came to 70,000 Bolivianos
or $10,000 dollars. A youth pastor earns about
$10 a day.
In speaking to this youth pastor, the first thing he
said was:
“I believe I will be strong enough to be back with
the students this week…my sickness has caused
many students to put their trust in God. They
have fought for me in prayer and now believe in
the power of prayer.”
As the former PennDel District Youth Director, I
witnessed thousands of students experience the
power and presence of Jesus. I encourage you,
former students, to tell your story that this next
generation might know that God is working for
them in their battle. I would like to hear your story
as well, so that as the Lord allows, we can inspire
others with your stories through HOPE RISING
~ God’s love unleashed for a generation. Take a
moment to send us your story of how, when, and
where you experienced the power and presence
of Jesus to dsayers99@gmail.com. We would
love to hear from you!
Please join us as we continue to pray that
effective doors of opportunity will open and that
we get our budget raised quickly, so that this
work can continue. To learn more about HOPE
RISING and how you can partner with us, go to
www.agmd.org/u/sayers
If you would like to support
Doug & Susan or schedule
them at your church,
Please contact them at
doug.sayers@agmd.org
or 717-512-8891
Acct # 2259620
LEADERSHIPconnexion | Summer 2021 7

GUEST CONTRIBUTOR | Samuel Rodriguez
Breath &
When Jesus’ breath becomes your sou
When His exhale becomes your inhale, when His breath becomes
your oxygen, when His Spirit becomes your life force, you live
empowered! With this breath of life comes power: “But you will
receive power when the Holy Spirit comes” (Acts 1:8).
SAMUEL RODRIGUEZ serves
as Senior Pastor of New Season
Church, with campuses in Los
Angeles and Sacramento, where
he resides with his wife, Eva, and
their three children.
He is President of the National
Hispanic Christian Leadership
Conference and co-founded
TBN Salsa. He has participated
in the inauguration ceremonies
of two different Presidents
representing both political
parties. Rodriguez consults with
Congress advancing immigration
and criminal justice reform as well
as religious freedom and Pro-
Life initiatives. He is the recipient
of the Martin Luther King Jr.
Leadership Award presented by
the Congress of Racial Equality.
He is the author
of You Are Next,
Shake Free, Be
Light, and From
Survive to Thrive
and is executive
producer of two
films.
Simply stated, you cannot claim to have the Holy Spirit and be powerless.
There is no such animal as a powerless child of God. There is no such
thing as a powerless question. There is no such thing as a powerless Christ
follower. There is no such thing as a powerless person filled with the Spirit
of God. When you inhale God’s exhale, when you open up your heart and
receive God’s Spirit, then you have power - unlimited, inexhaustible power
to do what others say is impossible, what you know cannot be done on
your own!
You have POWER to move MOUNTAINS.
You have POWER to cast out DARKNESS.
You have POWER over FEAR.
You have POWER over ANXIETY.
You have POWER over DEPRESSION.
You have POWER over your PAST.
You have POWER over the old YOU.
You have the power you need to do the work of God, live out the Word of
God, walk in the way of God, listen to the whisper of God, look through the
windows of God and change the world for God!
Private Before Public
As we move from surviving to thriving, we realize that we must do more
than merely breathe in the power of God’s Spirit. We must also release
that holy breath into the lives of others. If all we do is breathe in, then
we die. We must exhale even as we must inhale.
Sometimes you will encounter people who only want to breathe in without
ever letting go of what they’ve taken in. They rely on the energy of others
and literally seem to suck the air out of the room when you’re with them.
They inhale and spiritually hold their breath. No wonder, then, they’re blue in
the face!
Excerpt From Survive to Thrive, Samuel Rodriguez, Charisma House, 2020
8

Power
rce of life, you begin to thrive.
When you’re filled with God’s Spirit, you begin to practice
spiritual breathing. You inhale and exhale, trusting both are
necessary for you to survive and then to thrive. With patience
and wisdom we discover the following:
Breathing IN is RECEIVING.
Breathing OUT is GIVING.
Breathing IN is SOWING.
Breathing OUT is REAPING.
Breathing IN is BINDING.
Breathing OUT is RELEASING.
Breathing IN makes you a LISTENER
of the Word.
Breathing OUT makes you a DOER
of the Word.
Breathing IN makes you a CONSUMER.
Breathing OUT makes you a PRODUCER!
Behind closed doors, in the holy quarantine, Jesus Christ, after
His resurrection, breathed in and breathed out. And when He
exhaled, He blew upon His disciples the most essential element
not just for us to survive but for us to thrive - His Holy Spirit! As
we find ourselves quarantined, whether literally or figuratively,
let us not forget what is most essential: an intimate relationship
with God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.
Remember, it’s what you do behind closed doors that will
determine what you will see when the doors are open. Closed
doors precede open doors. Closed doors represent the private;
open doors represent the public. It’s what you do in privacy that
will determine what you will do in the public sphere. Your private
life will determine your public life.
Jesus died publicly and then privately showed the disciples His
wounds so they could demonstrate His power publicly. We’re
assured, “Then Jesus made a public spectacle of all the powers
and principalities of darkness, stripping away from them every
weapon and all their spiritual authority and power to accuse
us. And by the power of the cross, Jesus led them around as
prisoners in a procession of triumph.
“He was not their prisoner;
they were his!” (Col. 2:15, TPT).
What we do behind closed doors will determine what we see
with open doors.
It’s time to get your behind-closed-doors life aligned with God
so your open- door life can thrive. Frequently the problem is
that people want to fight their giant in the open when they’re
not willing to fight the giant behind what is closed. You must
win your private battles before you try to fight your public
giants. You must worship and be empowered alone with God
before you attempt to do it in front of others. Because once you
overcome inside, you can overcome outside!
When you submit to the Lamb in private, then you can
crush the serpent in public. You must pass through the
narrow way in your heart before you can walk the red carpet
in the world. You must put God first before you take your first
step through an open door. You encounter God before you
encounter the world. God changes you before you change the
world!
As followers of Jesus we are
called to be set apart, sanctified
and transformed into the
likeness of our Savior. While
we may feel claustrophobic
at first, when we retreat into
stillness and intimacy with God,
we discover the liberation and
power that comes from His
Spirit. We are never isolated
from God, nor can we be
quarantined and cut off from
His presence.
Reflection
What does spiritual
breathing look like in your life
right now?
How have you experienced
a fresh breath of God’s Spirit
lately?
How has this produced new
life as you breathe out holy
power to others?
We are His children created in His image to THRIVE!
LEADERSHIPconnexion | Summer 2021 9

SUMMIT21
May 4-5, 2021
Christian Life Assembly, Camp Hill PA
Ordination Celebration • May 5, 2021
Congratulations to our Jubilarians (50 Years Ordanined)
John & Saundra Kuert
Aliquippa AG, Aliquippa
First AG, New Castle
Evangel Heights AG, Sarver
Wayne & Shirley Hixon
Trinity AG, Montoursville
Aliquippa AG, Aliquippa
Lock Haven AG, Lock Haven
Not Pictured: Paul Walters from Praise AG, Bear DE (Betty with the Lord)

Congratulations to the Ordination Class of 2021!
Bini Alycia
Dan & Mariah Boll
Michael & Jessica Brown
Scott & Stephanie Crowell
Tara & Jim Galbraith
Duane & Beth Goodling
Forrest Hall
Jason & Bridgette Jodon
Brian & Stephanie Knorr Jr.
John & Crystal Knudson
Daniel & Carrie Martin
Christopher & Jessica Massey
William & Barbara McClure
Justin & Tabitha Rhodes
Aaron & Bethany Schappell
Jacob & Megan Walsh
Stephen & Cheryl Weber
Tyler & Sandra White
Keith & Valerie White

GUEST CONTRIBUTOR | Dr. Robert Crosby
Dr. Robert Crosby
Emerge Counseling Ministries
President/CEO
“These two shal
but not o
The more husbands and wives take time to unders
to live and to love, the more oneness can develo
self-interests in the relationship, however, can make un
4 Things Men Wish Their Wives Could See
After counseling couples, I have observed several common viewpoints men wish women
knew about their husbands; things they think, feel, and experience, but often find it difficult to
express. Here are just a few of those most often cited.
Many men wish their wives would:
Understand … He Really Wants to Make You Happy, But Often Isn’t Quite
Sure Just How.
If there were a “joy box” your husband knew he could open in your soul, he would likely
make that one of his first steps every day. Noted marriage researcher, John Gottmann, PhD.,
found that “Men want less conflict. Way less conflict. [Men] don’t want to be the source of her
unhappiness, and when she’s unhappy, [they] want to fix whatever’s broken and move on.”
Understand … Men Enjoy Romance When It is Working, but Often Question
Just How to Get It Started.
If “romance” = relational intimacy, then he likes it most when a loving tone exists between the
two of you. In fact, in many cases he wants it more than you know, but in different ways than
you may expect. Gottmann “found that men actually want more intimacy just as much as
women, but they feel that intimacy when there’s less fighting and more sex.”
Understand … He Sees the Goal of Conversation Differently Than You; to Him
it is About “Getting the Report.”
Research by Deborah Tannen showed the “goal of conversation” for men is different than
women. While men focus on getting the report, women focus on gaining the rapport of
connection and understanding.
Understand … He desires to display his strengths in front of you and in the
context of your relationship.
Do you remember how much your husband appreciated how you made over him and the
things he did when you first started dating? Remember … how “strong” he was when he
picked you up and hugged you? How “smart” he was when he told you all about some subject
he was interested in? How “thoughtful” he was when he got you the gift you “really wanted”
(whether it really was the one you “really wanted” the most or not)? Those moments and those
affirmations are part of what made him fall for you. They will likely keep him doing so.
The CROSBYS are
also co-founders of
TeamingLife.com. They
write and teach on
marriage, parenting,
leadership, and team
building. Their newest
book together is The
Will of a Man & The
Way of a Woman:
Balancing & Blending
Better Together.
Robert also authored
The Teaming Church:
Ministry in the Age of
Collaboration, More
Than a Savior and
The One Jesus Loves.
Together they have
pastored churches in
New York, Ohio, and
Massachusetts.
The Crosbys
will be speaking
at the THRIVE
Conference in
Carlisle.
The wife that takes time to “study her man” and understand what he deeply desires is well on
her way to enriching her marriage.
12

l become one…”
vernight
tand each other and how God has designed them
p in marriage and love can grow. Tensions and
derstanding each other’s needs and desires difficult.
Pamela Crosby
Emerge Counseling Ministries
Executive Director of Development
3 Things A Woman Most Desires
GUEST CONTRIBUTOR | Pamela Crosby
Have you ever wondered what a woman looks for in a
husband? It is probably quite different than you may have
thought. While the rugged knight in shining armor or movie-starlike-looks
may get her attention, they might not qualify for the “I
do.” We asked focus groups “what a woman most desires” and
these three desires scored high on her list:
Desire #1: SECURITY
As a young woman, I had thought “falling in love” meant a
rush of emotions, firework-like-heart-throbbing flashes of
“Oh my gosh – he takes my breath away!” But, instead I was
overwhelmed with a different rush; rather, I found a deep
sense of safety and peace with Robert. When we first met,
his presence brought calmness to my otherwise topsy-turvy
anxieties and insecurities. I had a deep sense of security
whenever we were together, I could share my thoughts and
secrets, my fears and concerns and knew they were safe with
him.
Transparent communication, discussing expectations and
fears is how most women seek for security. Uncovering the
soul creates and invites a space for oneness to take place at
a deep emotional level for the woman; a place to be “naked
and unashamed” emotionally (Gen. 3:25). Gary Smalley writes,
“Make it your goal to create an environment that feels like
the safest place on earth.” This level of listening and caring
communicates that the man values his wife’s ways (her
thoughts, insights, and wisdom) and that his heart trusts in her.
Desire #2: PROTECTION
The second characteristic women seek from their man is:
Protection. Many women want a husband who displays
“strength,” in other words, a man who is gentle enough to
change a baby’s diaper but strong enough in character to lead
his family. Being a provider can go beyond “bringing home
the bacon” but one who provides spiritual direction for his
family and shared values for their future. Most women want a
man who is independent and yet a partner; someone who is
decisive, but also takes time to hear her desires. Rod Cooper
calls these paradoxical expectations “the double-binds of
manhood.”
Though a woman can desire protection she must also be
aware and compliment him for his attempts at providing it.
This may not always appear the “way” she pictured protection
would look but whether she is shy and timid, out spoken
and appears confident, a husband’s physical tough in public,
or understanding of her insecurities, can provide a sense of
protection. It is also important that she acknowledges and
shows appreciation in his efforts, not scrutinizing and/or judging.
Desire #3: INTIMACY
A woman’s intimate ways lay dormant until “love is awakened”
(Song of Solomon 8:4 – Make sure to read Chapter Fifteen, by
the way!). There are many books and articles written, stating
that women have sexual desires, but they also appreciate the
non-sexual touches. There are so many non-sexual approaches
that touch her soul, encouraging and highlighting her womanly
“ways”. Being told what about her is alluring and “I can’t get you
off of my mind” throughout the day is just the beginning.
What captures and softens your woman’s heart is unique to
her, but not impossible to discover. Maybe an unexpected
gift, cup of her favorite coffee, invite her to a lunch date for a
undistracted conversation, cook a meal together, and a list of
simple actions and time spent together could be your answer.
Or, remind her what it is about her that is alluring to you, what
part of her body you can’t get out of your mind, and what it
means to know her heart belongs to you can awaken love. Most
women have learned to believe there is an expectation behind
every compliment. So, surprise her. Share your thoughts and
your attention with her, put your strong arms around her and let
her know she is the true owner of your heart.
God has not only designed us to flourish in a relationship
with him, but he has intricately designed us to flourish in a
relationship of oneness in marriage; emotionally, spiritually,
physically and even mentally. For her, oneness is the overflow
that comes from long-lasting security, protection and intimacy. A
display of love so powerful it brings healing to her soul.
Take time to appreciate and enjoy her ways. Meet her desires.
Awaken her love.
LEADERSHIPconnexion | Summer 2021 13

CHURCH PLANTING | TOM REES | 717.795.5921 | tom@penndel.org
2021 Home Missions Project
We exist to compel people to follow Jesus completely
Jason & Teri have been serving in ministry together for twenty-five years. After graduating
from the University of Valley Forge they served as evangelists, youth pastors and interim lead
pastors. Their ministry has been focused on serving others, loving people and sharing the
gospel. As ministers they have trained over 300 interns and lead over 100 youth ministries
to evangelize the streets of the Northeast through their evangelistic ministry.
Recently, Jason has been an executive pastor and has specialized in consulting churches
on structure and system development for the past ten years along with pastoral coaching.
His depth of experience in development will help him create a strategy for Collegeville and
immediately invest into equipping the church for the work of the ministry.
Teri has been a spiritual coach in “Leading and Loving It” and has a burden to disciple and
mentor women. Her passion helps her easily connect to women from all walks of life.
724-679-3325 vergechurch.com
14

65% say they
are not involved
in a religious
congregation or
community.
In 2012 a study found
that 46% of our mission
field stated that they have
a personal relationship
with the one living God,
who is Lord and Savior.
In 2017 we saw that
number drop to 39%.
People NOT in the
religious community say
the number one reason
for not participating in
a church is due to the
demands of raising
children. In the past five
years this demand has
caused an increase of
marriage problems, stress
and problems balancing
work and family. We are
seeing an increase of
personal issues that are
private and painful.
71% of those who
were once active in a
church but no longer
go to church do not
attend due to the fact
that they do not trust
religious leaders. (This
is higher than the
national average).
We are creating a strategy for the top two personal needs of our community.
We can immediately have an impact in our community by providing space for development of human potential.
Several ways you can partner:
PRAY
Please pray for Jason and Teri as they step out in this new adventure,
gather a core team and launch this fall.
ENVISION
verge church is one of the first fruits of the vision to plant 100 churches. I
am grateful for those who have encouraged and invested in this new
church plant and are envisioning more.
GIVE
Faith commitments/offerings are now being received. Jason has spent
much of his ministry sowing into PennDel churches through outreach,
coaching and leadership training. As he launches this new venture, my
hope is that PennDel churches will sow back into verge church.
This year we are partnering with Connection Church as they plant Verge Church in Collegeville.
Churches can send in their offering to:
PennDel Home Missions Project • 4651 Westport Drive • Mechanicsburg, PA 1705
LEADERSHIPconnexion | Summer 2021 15

THRIVING through Discomfort,
YOUTH MINISTRIES/DYD | Lee Rogers | 717.795.5921 | lee@penndel.org
March 12, 2020 was a day I would like to forget. It
was with a heavy heart that we announced the
postponement of Youth Convention 2020, which would
later be canceled entirely. Change was forced upon us by an
overwhelming global pandemic. This was not what I envisioned
for my first year as the Network Youth Director. Over the years,
we’d developed very comfortable patterns of youth events and
traditions. Now all that was changing very quickly, and we were
being forced out of our comfort zone.
At the same time, I had to recognize that God had called me
to a specific role for this specific time; that He had given me a
dream for the PennDel Youth, and a pandemic could not erase
that dream. My dream is to see an exponentially increasing
number of students thriving through the power of Holy
Spirit, demonstrating a spirituality that is sacrificially
generous, and effectively sharing the message of Jesus
with their generation and beyond. As the initial wave of
cancellations became an elongated reality, we decided to find
a way to thrive through the discomfort and grow through the
change. We were forced out of our comfort zone, but we fought
for the dream God had given us.
In his book The Dream Giver, Bruce Wilkinson wrote, “There’s
nothing wrong with a comfort zone. After all, no one likes
danger and uncertainty. Yet, a comfort zone can become a
barrier, too. Why? Because big dreams always lie outside
our comfort zone. That means we will have to leave what
feels comfortable if we want to achieve our dream.”
As we were forced outside our comfort zone, God helped us
thrive and grow with huge wins through the change:
The Holy Spirit filled the room, over and over again. One of our
Covid protocols for youth camp and other events was “altar
in-place.” No one could sit back and watch the altar from a
distance anymore; the altar became something no one could
avoid. As a result, we saw increased participation and intensity
in prayer and in seeking the Lord.
16

GROWING through Change
Students gave with sacrificial increase. We took the largest
offering in recent memory for Speed-the-Light at youth camp
last year. That number was eclipsed by the sacrificial giving
we saw from students at the Spirit Tour this past Spring. While
some offerings are still coming in, we received over $54,000 inperson
for missions through Speed-the-Light. At least $50,000
additional money has been raised for the same projects in the
weeks since.
Students shared Jesus in courageous new ways. Many
Campus Missionaries found new ways to share Jesus during
the pandemic. One student started a Campus Club to share
Jesus with his classmates online. His efforts generated so much
email traffic and communication that the school’s email system
crashed and was temporarily shut down! As a result, the club
started with more publicity and participation than was likely
possible before the pandemic.
Now we are going outside of our comfort zone, once again,
in pursuit of the dream God has given us. We are excited
to announce the return of Youth Convention, at a new
location and at a new time of the year. Youth Convention
will be held at Kalahari Resort on October 15-17, 2021! It is
our anticipation that the Holy Spirit will empower us to thrive and
grow through this change. It is going to be an AMAZING time!
Plan to join us and get more information at www.penndelyouth.
com/convention.
I thank God for all He did in the past through our Youth
Convention at Hershey. I was personally impacted by the
Holy Spirit at the Hershey Arena in both middle school and
high school. As a youth pastor, I was able to take students to
The Giant Center and see God pour out the same Spirit upon
teenagers in my youth group.
LEADERSHIPconnexion | Summer 2021 17

Rhythms
PENNDEL WOMEN | LIZ DEFRAIN | 484.686.4554 | liz@penndelwomen.com | penndelwomen.com
Ninety days, sixty days, thirty days, two weeks, five days,
and then it’s here! I’m talking VACATION! For me, there
is nothing like anticipation. I envision the warm sun on
my face while the ocean breeze floats over me like a golden
embrace. Reading a good book or listening to worship music
as I settle my soul and lean into a quiet rhythm of peaceful bliss.
I don’t know about you, but it takes determination to forget
what is happening around me or needs my attention to focus
on rest and renewal. I find myself feeling “guilty” for time spent
on self-care. Personality tests have shown me that I hold myself
to a high standard, being task-oriented and a perfectionist.
There is always something to do or accomplish, and I carry that
weight with me all the time. Are you like that too? We think we
are indispensable, right? WRONG!
For many in ministry, summer can afford us a different rhythm in
our lives as church schedules adapt to summer vacations. This
year, because we are just getting back to “normal church life”
after a year of the pandemic, you may be hesitant to take time
off for yourself. That would be a mistake. More than ever, we
need time to quiet ourselves and hear from Jesus.
Jesus modeled stepping away.
Luke 5:16 NLT
But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.
In the Old Testament, the prophet Isaiah warns Israel about
trusting in Egypt and not relying on Him.
Isaiah 30:15 NLT
Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved.
In quietness and confidence is your strength.
I often find myself tempted to do the same thing. Whether it
be technology, marketing, or hard work, none of it is wrong
in itself. What is wrong is the ORDER we apply these to our
lives and ministry. Learning a lesson from applying make-up
has taught me about using PRIMER first. The primer becomes
the foundation of everything, and our time with Jesus is the
primer of our lives. This significant time sets the atmosphere for
everything else.
This summer, set some significant time aside for YOU and
Jesus! Rest, recharge and renew. Fall will be here before you
know, and rhythms will change again. I am in countdown mode
to vacation, and I hope you too. Rest, recharge, reinvigorate.
See you in the fall!
18

In my mind I see thousands of elementary kids rushing the
doors trying to get back into church. The real truth is, COVID
is diminishing and kids are coming back, slowly and surely,
but they’re coming back. Several churches reported more kids
than adults are returning.
They’re back! The question is, are you ready? Churches
report that many of their volunteers are not back. Many are
seniors or people at risk and they have concerns. So what are
you doing to develop volunteers? Here are a few things that
may help.
Resource them
Helping your children’s leaders can be as simple as getting
them a few good books that help them excel in kids ministry.
Here are a few that we’ve used for our children’s
ministry internship program.
Children’s Ministry Leadership: You Can Do It, by Jim Wideman
Beat the Clock, by Jim Wideman
Strong Enough to Last, by David Boyd
They're Back!
Transforming Children Into Spiritual Champions,
by George Barna
Inspire them
Broaden the horizons of your children’s leaders by giving them
a Sunday off and sending them to a church that’s knocking
kids ministry out of the park. Many times visiting a church
that’s a little larger or doing a phenomenal job with kid’s
ministry will give children’s leaders the inspiration to take things
to the next level.
Feel free to call our office for suggestions of some tremendous
children’s ministries. We even give you an assessment tool
your team can use.
Equip them
Offer your volunteers Hydrate. Hydrate is kid’s ministry (Kidmin)
training from our National Assemblies Of God Kidmin Office.
Volunteers watch three short 10 to 20 minute videos every
month. There is a monthly coaching call (Zoom) to discuss
what the participants have learned.
Individuals can receive practical training from Kidmin veterans
and connect with like-minded leaders for $150 per year.
Registration opens July 1, 2021.
Three 10-15 minute videos a month
Worksheets
Video notes
Hydrate Huddle (small group Zoom)
Hydrate Facebook access
Certificate of completion
Here’s the link: kidmin.ag.org
I remember being
a lay person in
kid’s ministry at my
home church. My
pastor resourced
me with some
great books. He
allowed me to visit
other churches,
and equipped me
with kids’ ministry
trainings. These
provided growth both personally and professionally in my kids’
ministry. Perhaps you could provide the same for your kidmin
leaders and volunteers.
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION | GEORGE KREBS | 717.795.5921 | george@penndel.org
LEADERSHIPconnexion | Summer 2021 19

PennDel Royal Rangers
ROYAL RANGERS STEVE | STEFFEL | 302-379-1580 | www.pdrangers.org | Follow us: Website: pdrangers.org | Facebook: PennDel District Royal Rangers
We are happy to report that work has continued
on the Shower House at Camp Berry and the
floor has been poured and block is on site for
the walls. This is an excellent time for a home missions’
team to come from your church. Contact Steve Steffel
at ssteffel@verizon.net and we would be happy to host
your team. We have twenty-six bunks, two baths, kitchen,
dining, etc. on 135 beautiful acres of camp plus four RV
sites. The next work Saturday work days are June 5 and
12, July 10, August 14h and September 10.
Events have started up and the Frontierman’s Camping
Fellowship had fifty-nine at their spring trace. It was a
great time with a number of new boys joining and boys
advancing. Sections held Pinecar and Lego Derbies with
boys, girls and whole families enjoying the event. Each
event has a spiritual component and is a stepping stone
for our boys to develop into Godly servant leaders.
One of our PennDel churches has recently started up
Royal Rangers after having stopped for a number of
years. They already have twelve boys, a number of leaders
and others who have expressed an interest in leading.
They had one of the PennDel Sectional Royal Ranger
Coordinators come and do a ten minute presentation
one Sunday on the Royal Ranger program and then met
with potential leaders after the morning service. If you
would like to have a presentation, please ask and we
will be happy to come to your church to meet with your
leadership.
Many churches have started Royal Rangers meetings in
person again and the boys are glad to see their friends
and have more fun during their activity time. District
PowWow is coming up and our Theme is “Sharpen Your
Edge” with Rev. Freddie Pettet as our speaker. Whether
your church has Royal Rangers or not, you are welcome
to invite several leaders and bring your boys. There will
be a lot of great activities as well as great opportunities
for your boys to receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord
and be challenged to grow in their faith. Check out the
promotional flyer, video and registration packet on the
website pdrangers.org and look under events. All leaders
need to have their background checks done (see packet)
so don’t delay.
If you don’t have a premier Christian boys mentoring
program at your church, come join the adventure and start
Royal Rangers at your church.
Walls started going up at the shower house and climbing
wall was finished on May 22 for PowWow.
20

Robin Immel
Women In Ministry Coordinator
Women grow stronger when they spend time together.
God has created us to thrive after REST.
Our Women in Ministry Retreat is created to provide a
time for both CONNECTION and REST.
My dream as you attend Singin in the Rain is that God
will pour over you all your heart and soul is thirsty for.
I will be waiting for YOU as you give me the privilege of
loving on you throughout our weekend.
The Blessings of
The Pandemic
“In everything give thanks: for
this is the will of God in Christ
Jesus concerning you.”
I Thessalonians 5:18 KJV
No one wants to be the weird one, the odd one, the one
who stands out for being different from everyone else.
But it appears that we are told by the Apostle Paul to
do exactly that. Be different. Stand out from the crowd.
How? By giving thanks in everything. Everything. Give
thanks.
I do not believe that God meant that we are to be thankful
in a weird way. How can I be thankful that our world has
been hit with a pandemic? How can I be thankful that so
many of my friends have become ill and four have passed
away from Covid? It is creepy and offensive to be thankful
for those things.
GIRLS MINISTRIES | SHARON POOLE | sharonp@pdgirlsministries.com | penndel.org/girls
So what did Paul mean? Was he just wrong on this?
Absolutely not!
I can be thankful in all things! It is God’s will in Christ
Jesus for me. I need to take the time, put forth the effort,
do the work to find the good for which to be thankful!
In the pandemic, God has blessed! He has provided. He
has shown Himself to be the God who loves and cares for
us. And He has used His Church to reach many who were
hurting before the pandemic. The stressors and fears of
the pandemic caused their pain to intensify. The Church
stepped up and did what God intended. We ministered.
We helped with the pain and fear. For that I am grateful.
For those who have lost loved ones, God is with you. He
provided wonderful life memories that bring comfort and
strength. I thank God that He is with me, He is with you
and carries you through the grief. There are blessings
there. There is good! Give thanks in all things!
LEADERSHIPconnexion | Summer 2021 21

AROUND THE NETWORK
Jeff and Melissa Beauvais
(Melissa not pictured)
Lighthouse Community Church, Galeton, PA
Pastor Installations
Matthew and Andrea Openbrier
Christian AG, Bentleyville, PA
Sal and Mary Ann Reyes
Faith Church, Weatherly, PA
Thomas and Cecelia Manning
Kinport AG, Cherry Tree, PA
Sam & Memuna Konteh
R3 Church (previously international Christian fellowship), Darby, PA
Two Therapists available
to you, your family
and your church.
Jason Tourville
Sarah Walter
22
Accepts most forms of insurance
Online or In-Person
www.Emerge.org/PA
800-621-5207

DISTRICT CALENDAR
JULY
4 Independence Day
5 Ministry Network Closed – Independence Day Observed
12-16 Kids’ Camp Week #1 – BCC
13-17 Youth AIM Trip – Philly Dream Center
19-23 Kids’ Camp Week #2 – BCC
23-24 PennDel Women – Summer Missions Experience @
Philly Dream Center
26-30 Kids’ Camp Week #3 – BCC
AUGUST
2-6 Kids’ Camp Week #4 – BCC
2-6 Nat’l Fine Arts Festival – Orlando, FL
2-7 RR Junior Leader Development Academy – Honey Grove
13-15 Youth Bible Quiz Camp – BCC
SEPTEMBER
6 Ministry Network Closed – Labor Day
10-11 ACTS 2 Journey East (Retreat 3) – UVF
10-12 RR West Division Fall Camporee
11 Youth – Fearless Central:
One Day to Make a Difference
13 Presbytery Meeting – BCC
14 Credential Interviews – BCC
15 Youth Campus Awareness Day
17-18 ACTS 2 Journey Central (Retreat 3)
17-19 Women In Ministry Retreat – BCC
17-19 RR East Division Fall Camporee – Tri-County/Bethel
22 See You at the Pole
24-25 ACTS 2 Journey West (Retreat 3) – Riverside/Oakmont
25 Youth – Fearless West: One Day to Make a Difference
LEADERSHIPconnexion | Summer 2021 23

Pennsylvania-Delaware Ministry Network
4651 Westport Drive
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Find us online: penndel.org
Join us on Social Media:
PennDel Ministry Network
PennDelMinistryNetwork
#penndelag
HIS Fund marks 40 years of
INVESTING FOR A HIGHER PURPOSE
In April of 2021 HIS Fund
marked its fortieth year as
a lender to Assemblies of
God churches. One of the
churches with which HIS
Fund has had a decadelong
relationship is Liberty
Worship Center, Fairfield,
PA. The following testimony
from Pastor Jeff Walter is
one of many testimonies
HIS Fund has received
over the years that reveals
what we mean by the
phrase, INVESTING FOR A
HIGHER PURPOSE, and its
relationship to the words
of Jesus as recorded in
Matthew 16:18:
“This past December we
celebrated ten years in our
new building. A building
made possible by the labor and
faithfulness of many people of
our church. HIS Fund has been
a trusted partner for us every
step of the way. We have seen
challenges and blessings, but
always the goodness of God.
We were seeing growth and
had plans to finish our west wing and kitchen in 2020 when the pandemic hit. Like every other church
congregation, we were unable to meet in person for a while and it seemed like our plans to build would
be on hold. But, God is a miracle working God. Because of restrictions on private home building, but not
commercial work, we were able to contract the build-out and it was completed early and under budget. In
addition, many of the local community groups were left without places to meet. We were able to open our
church building while following COVID guidelines to allow these groups to safely meet. We hosted events
for the Senior Classes of 2020 and 2021 that otherwise would have been cancelled. We
are now recognized in our community as a resource for helping to meet the needs of our
neighbors. God took that which was intended for evil and worked it
for good, we give Him glory! HIS Fund has played an important part in helping
us be Light in our area! Thank you and bless you!”
—Pastor Jeff Walter
If you love Jesus and His church and want to invest for a higher purpose, contact us at: invest@hisfund.com.
www.hisfund.com • 866-219-0820 (toll free) • 717-796-9784
THE INITIAL INTEREST RATE ON ALL NOTES WILL DEPEND ON EFFECTIVE INTEREST RATES AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE. TERM NOTES PAY INTEREST AT A RATE FIXED AT THE TIME OF ISSUANCE. ONCE FIXED, THE INTEREST RATE ON
A TERM NOTE WILL NOT BE CHANGED UNTIL THE NOTE MATURES. AT LEAST THIRTY (30) DAYS PRIOR TO ANY DECREASE IN THE INTEREST RATE ON A DEMAND NOTE, HIS FUND WILL NOTIFY THE HOLDER OF SUCH CHANGE. HIS FUND
INTEREST RATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR ADDITIONAL FORMS, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.HISFUND.COM.
THIS INFORMATION IS NEITHER AN OFFER TO SELL NOR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY THE SECURITIES ISSUED BY HIS FUND. THE OFFERING IS MADE ONLY BY THE PROSPECTUS. THE UNSECURED SECURITIES OF HIS
FUND ARE NOT OFFERED OR SOLD IN ANY JURISDICTION WHERE NOT PERMITTED. THE NOTES ARE NOT SAVINGS OR DEPOSIT ACCOUNTS OR OTHER OBLIGATIONS OF A BANK AND ARE NOT INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT
INSURANCE CORPORATION, ANY STATE BANK INSURANCE FUND, THE SECURITIES INVESTOR PROTECTION CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY.