Connexion Q3 2021 - There's A Place For You

PennDel Ministry Network 

THERE'S A PLACE FOR YOU

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THERE’S A PLACE FOR YOU! 

THE BIG PICTURE 

Our church is part of the “Assemblies of God” (AG), which is comprised of 13,000 churches 

in America, with approximately three million people considering an Assembly of God church 

their primary place of worship. In our Pennsylvania and Delaware Network of AG churches, 

we have 400 worship locations, with around 200,000 people connecting regularly in weekly 

worship. 

THE LOCAL CHURCH 

Each of our AG churches has a distinct feel, and yet all of our churches share some common 

elements and core values. Our statement of beliefs (see page 26) lists 16 Fundamental Truths 

that each AG church embraces. At the center of these beliefs is the conviction that everyone 

can enjoy a relationship with God the Father by experiencing forgiveness through Jesus Christ, 

His Son, and being filled with His Spirit for both an abundant life now and eternal life in the 

future (see last page for details). This core belief drives everything we do as a church and is the 

basis for our relationship with God and each other. 

HOW WE CONNECT 

Of course, our main get-together happens on Sunday mornings. Worshiping God through 

songs and prayer make up most of the front end of a Sunday service. The second half involves 

an informational or inspirational message from the pastor based upon life-giving truth 

communicated to mankind by God through the Bible. This combination of worship and Word 

feeds us spiritually. 

WELCOME! 

On behalf of our fellowship of Assemblies of 

God churches, we welcome you to worship 

and connect with God and this family of faith! 

HOW WE GROW 

In addition to the Sunday morning worship experience, our churches typically provide 

additional get-togethers for various age and interest groups. Providing opportunities to 

grow in our relationship with God, as well as growing in our relationship with other people 

who are “Christ-followers,” becomes the basis for all of our activities and get-togethers. 

Some gatherings emphasize engaging activities, while others are learning exchanges. 

Conversations, relationships, connections and common interests motivate us to get together 

regularly. Knowing God and discovering His plan for our lives are the reasons that we do 

church together. No matter what your personal context looks like, we believe that you can 

find meaningful, fulfilling connections within our church. Our PennDel Ministry Network exists 

to resource your church and it’s congregants with age or interest appropriate programs and 

growth opportunities. We hope that this publication will provide you with information that will 

help you develop those connections! 


DONALD J. IMMEL 

NETWORK SUPERINTENDENT 

PennDel Ministry Network • CONNEXION

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A PLACE FOR 

YOU 

CONTENTS 

A Place for YOUTH: 

Youth Ministry 

6 - 9 

A Place for GIRLS: 

Girls Ministry 

12 

A Place for KIDS: 

Kids Ministry 

10 - 11 

A Place for BOYS: 

Royal Rangers 

13 

A Place for WOMEN: 

Womens Ministry 

14 - 15 

A Place for MEN: 

Mens Ministry 

16 - 17 

A Place to CARE: 

World Missions 

18 - 19 

A Place to SERVE: 

US Missions 

20 - 21 

A Place to HEAL: Emerge Counseling Ministries............. 22 

A Place to REFRESH: Bongiorno Conference Center........ 23 

A Place to LEARN: PDSOM & UVF ................................... 24 

A Place to INVEST: HIS Fund........................................... 25 

A Place to BELIEVE......................................................... 26 

A Place in HEAVEN..........................................................27 


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YOUTH MINISTRY 

A PLACE FOR YOUTH 

God loves teenagers, and so do we! 

In the Assemblies of God ... 

We believe teenagers can passionately follow Jesus, be 

filled with God’s Holy Spirit and be empowered by God 

to do powerful and amazing things in their generation. 

We believe that teenagers belong in the church. 

We believe youth are the life of the church. 

We believe that teenagers have a vital role to play 

in the Body of Christ. 

Youth Ministry in the AG is primarily for young people 

in grades 6-12. Many of our churches have youth 

groups that meet weekly and have fun and formational 

events. Our youth groups also exist for parents, who 

we recognize as the primary disciple-makers of their 

children. Volunteers, leaders and those who want to help 

shape the next generation with the power of the Gospel 

and the Holy Spirit also have a place in our youth groups. 

TEENAGERS DRIVE CULTURE. You may not realize it, 

but it’s true. Social media, fashion, trends, music and 

technology are all driven by the needs and desires of 

young people. Even the calendar is driven by young 

people; most families have to plan their lives around 

when school starts and stops. The teenage years are 

generally the most formational in a person’s life; a time 

of profound growth and development in all aspects. 

That growth and development should happen on the 

foundation of Jesus, guided by the Holy Spirit, and with 

the help, love and support of the local church. 

YOU’RE INVITED 

Assemblies of God churches provide a place for 

teenagers to belong. We provide fun, and lots of it! We 

provide ways for teenagers to connect with God and 

grow in faith. We provide moments to encounter the 

Holy Spirit and to engage in God’s mission to reach 

every person with the Gospel. If you’re a teenager, you’re 

invited! Come to one of our youth groups! If you’re a 

parent, bring your teenager to an Assembly of God youth 

ministry. We exist for you, and we can’t wait to see you. 

“We are a new youth group and 

youth camp caused our kids to bond 

as they got serious with God and got 

closer to Him. So many were from 

really bad homes/backgrounds and 

God did some serious inner healing!” 

—Youth Camp Attendee 

For more information 

about Youth Ministry: 

“All four of our children have 

been blessed by the PennDel 

Youth. The different events and 

camps have provided a place 

for our sons and daughters to 

experience Christ in a very real 

and personal way. PennDel 

Youth has equipped them to live 

for Christ and share Christ with 

their friends.” 


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"As a parent of teenagers, I want to make sure that my teens have every opportunity to learn about 

Jesus, experience the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, and are equipped to reach their friends. 

What I love about PennDel Youth is that they share the same passion! I am so thankful that our district 

youth department is focused on providing opportunities for students to grow deeper in their relationship 

with the Lord and give them the tools and support needed to reach their personal mission field." 

HEALTHY LEADERS, THRIVING STUDENTS 

PennDel Youth exists to be the greatest youth ministry resource 

to every Assembly of God Church, pastor, and youth leader in 

Pennsylvania and Delaware. We want to see healthy leaders 

leading groups of thriving students in every church. We 

connect and resource the local church in many ways, and look 

forward to connecting with your church, youth group, and 

youth leaders. 

MEANINGFUL GATHERINGS 

Throughout the year we host fun and powerful moments where 

youth groups gather together to worship God and encounter 

Jesus and the Holy Spirit. These include WINTER RETREATS, 

SUMMER YOUTH CAMPS and YOUTH CONVENTION. 

DISCIPLESHIP JOURNEYS 

We have powerful discipleship programs and journeys that 

youth groups and churches can easily plug into. 

BIBLE QUIZ disciples students to Learn God’s Word, 

Live God’s Word and Lead with God’s Word. 

YOUTH ALIVE disciples students to share Jesus with their 

friends, and proclaim God’s Word to their school. 

SPEED THE LIGHT disciples students in sacrificial generosity, 

providing opportunities to give to missions and missionaries 

around the world. 

LEADER CARE AND DEVELOPMENT 

We provide regular communication, teaching and connecting 

opportunities for youth pastors and leaders. 

ONLINE - Every local church leader or pastor is welcome 

to join our “penndelyouth – pastors and leaders” group on 

Facebook. This group regularly connects and communicates. 

On most Mondays, we go live to share updates and a 

leadership teaching. 

THE LEADERSHIP ALLIANCE – Leaders can plug into one of 

our leadership development tracks to grow in youth ministry 

leadership skills and practices. 

YOUTH LEADERS RETREATS – We hold a youth leaders retreat 

for pastors and leaders each year. It’s an opportunity to be 

spiritually renewed, to grow together and to connect with one 

another in person. 

"This week was 

amazing! When I 

came here, I thought 

that it was going 

to be semi-normal 

church service. 

This was the best 

thing I have ever 

experienced ever. 

So, I thank you for 

this week.” 

MISSIONS TRIPS are held annually for youth groups and 

students, discipling students in serving others in diverse 

communities around the world and in the US. 

FINE ARTS helps students to discover, develop and deploy 

their ministry gifts. 

God loves teenagers, and so do we! 


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KIDS MINISTRY 

A PLACE FOR KIDS 

We believe that children are central to the life of the church. Jesus said, “let the little children come 

to me – do not hinder them!” Because of Jesus’ value for children, we believe that children’s ministry 

should be one of the most prominent ministries in our congregations! We do everything we can to 

love on kids, encourage them to follow Jesus and contribute to healthy families. 

The PennDel Ministry Network Kid’s Ministry & Discipleship Department has as its goal: to come 

alongside the local church to enhance the development of children’s leaders and children’s 

ministries. We accomplish this by providing kid's retreats, camps, church staff training events and 

a host of other activities that will enhance the local churches ministry to kids. Here are the major 

events that we partner with your church: 

JUNIOR BIBLE QUIZ 

The PennDel Ministry Network provides a Junior Bible Quiz (JBQ) league 

for kids. This is a fun, flexible, Bible-based program that will help children 

learn the Word of God. JBQ is inexpensive, works with a limited timeframe 

and is fun and exciting for kids. Opportunities are given for regional 

churches to gather together several times a year for fun and friendly 

competition. 

KIDS FUN ARTS 

We encourage churches throughout the year to help children develop 

their ministry gifts and abilities. Once a year, usually in May, churches 

gather at predetermined locations, and children present various ministries 

such as puppetry, a short sermon, human videos, art, photography and 

several musical categories. 

At Fun Arts, children are not judged, but they are coached and leave with 

several positive comments in one or two areas in which they can improve. 

"This is the best 

week of my life!" 

—Tommy 

KIDS CAMP 

Kid's Camp is one of the most spiritual and formational 

experiences a child can encounter. We offer four weeks of 

summer Kid's Camp; each five-day overnight camp is packed 

with fun activities. 

• *Nightly services designed specifically for kids 

• Tubing down a half mile of creek 

• 120 foot outdoor water slide 

• Hours of fun in the olympic-size swimming pool 

• Inflatable obstacle course and giant slide 

• Tons of games (gaga ball, tether ball, video and board 

games, disc golf, ping pong and more) 

*The most engaging camp event is our services. The Bible is 

communicated through kid-friendly worship and teaching. Every 

week we have a live band, fun characters, puppets, object lessons 

and a challenge for kids to become followers of Jesus and live 

Godly lives. We provide time for kids to pray and wait on God as 

He speaks into their lives. This altar response time is life changing. 

KIDS BREAKAWAY 

We host two fun-filled three-day weekend retreats for kids 

called “Breakaway: Kids on a Mission.” This retreat is similar 

to a mini summer camp. Our focus is to help children become 

more compassionate and missions minded, both in prayer 

and giving. We offer all the fun elements kids love plus four 

impacting services. This retreat promotes Boys and Girls 

Missionary Challenge. 

Children are important to Jesus – they are important to us as well. 

Without kids, the future of the church is limited. 

With kids, the future of the church is limitless! 

CONNECTIONS FOR 

CHILDRENS LEADERS 

We have several regional representatives who host gatherings 

for children’s leaders. These could be weekday lunches to 

Saturday afternoon meetings. Children’s leaders are also 

invited to children’s fellowships at our annual Summit held 

annually in May and our Thrive Conference held annually in 

October. In addition, we connect through our Facebook page, 

Penndel Kidmin Community. This a great place to connect and 

gather information about kid’s ministry. 

CHILDRENS MINISTRY 

LEADERSHIP SUMMIT 

This is a three-day training and connection event, usually held 

in January, which focuses on leadership in children’s ministry. 

It is designed for that one leader who is responsible to make 

children’s ministry happen in the local church. There are some 

workshops that are exclusive to children’s ministry, but the 

majority of this event will center on personal and pastoral 

leadership development. Our goal is character building, team 

building, leadership principles, integrity and communication. 

REGIONAL CHILDRENS 

MINISTRY TRAININGS 

We also offer four to six regional trainings in the PennDel 

Ministry Network for the spring and fall of the year. This is a 

Friday evening/Saturday morning event for local churches, 

offering four to five workshops in various aspects of children’s 

ministry. 

CHILDRENS MINISTRY INTERNSHIP 

Due to the need for children’s leaders and full/part-time 

children’s pastors, the PennDel Ministry Network Kid’s Ministry 

& Discipleship Department has an internship program to 

produce Kid’s ministry leaders, directors and pastors for the 

local church. For more information about enrolling in the 

internship program, call the PennDel Ministry Office at 717- 

795-7921. We look forward to helping you take your next step 

in becoming a children’s pastor or volunteer! 

For more 

information 

about Kids 

Ministry: 


12 ROYAL RANGERS 

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A PLACE FOR GIRLS 

GIRLS MINISTRIES 

A PLACE FOR BOYS 

"Girls Ministries really 

shaped me into the 

woman I am today. 

From memorizing 

scripture verses, to 

the fellowship with 

other girls my age, 

and everything in 

between, my walk 

with God wouldn’t 

be where it is today. 

The memories I have 

of Girls Ministries, 

especially as a young 

girl growing up, will 

always be cherished 

in a special way." 

Girls Ministries discipleship program is the premier program for preschool through high 

school girls in the world. No other girls ministry program has our variety of activities, focused 

discipleship track, or a 65-year proven track record of helping girls become confident, godly 

women who are leaders in the church, home and world. 

Research shows girls learn more quickly and deeply when they are taught by a role model. Girls 

need a real-life example. When a girl understands what it means to be a godly woman, she aspires 

to the design that God intended. A single-gender classroom has many benefits, but the greatest 

of these is for a girl to feel safe and secure in her discovery of who God intended her to be. 

Girls encounter challenging situations as they grow up. By intentionally fostering relationships 

between girls and leaders through our Girls Clubs, we create a safe environment for girls to 

discuss issues they face while receiving godly counsel. Most importantly, our Girls Clubs show 

each girl that God loves her and wants a relationship with her. 

The PennDel Girls Ministries offers specific training for leaders 

so they can lead with competence and confidence. Training 

is offered in local churches, or grouped with other churches 

in a cohort training event. 

Each June two retreats are held at the Bongiorno Conference 

Center in Carlisle. The Prims and Stars Retreat is specifically 

for girls in grades 1-5. For girls in grades 6-12, we have the 

Friends and Girls Only Retreat. In all that we do, whether in 

the local church or at Retreat, we strive to provide a godly 

and fun ministry for our girls. 

Many of our PennDel AG churches 

host a ministry designed specifically 

for girls. “Girls Ministries” is a 

church-based discipleship program 

that brings godly women alongside 

girls, guiding them on a path toward 

maturity, living out the values found 

in the bible. Our goal is simple: To 

see every girl moving toward a deep 

relationship with Jesus Christ, and to 

realize her importance and potential 

in the kingdom of God. 

Many of our churches also participate in a ministry designed 

especially for boys called “Royal Rangers.” This program 

emulates boy scout programs, but was designed as a faith 

based program to help boys grow in their relationship with 

God and their relationship with others. Local Ranger groups 

are called “Outposts,” and can meet weekly, seasonally, or 

in a hybrid fashion that accommodates the local church’s 

strategy for discipleship. 

BACKGROUND 

ROYAL RANGERS – A KEY TO DEVELOPING 

BOYS INTO GODLY SERVANT LEADERS 

The year is 1962. This is the year that a North Texas youth pastor 

named Johnnie Barnes, went to Springfield, Missouri, to birth a 

new ministry for boys and young men. The mentoring ministry 

that we call Royal Rangers has really exceeded the original 

expectations and vision to the point that the Royal Rangers 

ministry has influenced the lives of more than two million men 

and boys in the United States and in more than ninety nations. 

Today, many former Royal Rangers serve their families, 

churches and communities as businessmen, pastors, church 

leaders, missionaries, teachers, soldiers, police officers and 

many other professions. This ministry, is focused on developing 

boys and men into godly servant leaders by providing 

Christlike character formation and training in a highly relational 

and fun environment. Our mission is to evangelize, equip and 

empower the next generation of Christlike men and lifelong 

servant leaders. 

OUTPOST LEVEL MINISTRY 

AT THE LOCAL CHURCH 

Ministry starts at the Outpost level, usually on a weekly basis, 

through four age level groups - Ranger Kids, Discovery 

Rangers, Adventure Rangers and Expedition Rangers. The 

curriculum covers Bible Merits, Skill Merits, Recreation, 

Devotions and much more. Boys have fun while learning 

important spiritual truths, skills and leadership qualities. 

SECTION LEVEL MINISTRY 

The sections within the PennDel District offer activities such as a 

Derby Race, Camp Outs, Winter Days, Merit Camps and other 

fun adventures for outposts in their section. 

DIVISION LEVEL MINISTRY 

The district is divided into two divisions – West and East and 

each have a special event for the sections in their division. The 

divisions have a lot of fun competing against each other at 

district events. 

DISTRICT LEVEL MINISTRY 

Each year the district holds a PowWow, a weekend event at 

Camp Berry, for all boys in the district with many fun activities 

and special speakers. The district camp, in Honey Grove, PA 

is located in beautiful farm country. The 135-acre property 

was purchased in 1990 and is now paid in full. Among other 

features, it has a water slide, zip line and climbing wall. At 

PowWow 2021, around fifty-five boys made a commitment to 

follow Christ and fourteen boys and men were baptized in the 

creek that runs through the camp. 

Frontiersman Camping Fellowship holds several events 

each year that feature skills from the frontier days with fun 

competitions for both boys and men. It is a further level for both 

boys and men to achieve and has a theme of giving and serving. 

LEADERSHIP TRAINING 

There is quality training both for adults and boys. The Junior 

Leadership Development Academy holds 3-4 day training 

camps at Camp Berry to develop godly servant leadership in 

boys starting at the Discovery Ranger level. National, Regional, 

District, Sectional and local levels, as well as online, provide 

quality training to help men develop to their full leadership 

potential. For more information on the PennDel Ministry 

Network ROYAL RANGER program, go to pdrangers.org and/ 

or visit us on Facebook! 


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WOMENS MINISTRY 

A PLACE FOR WOMEN 

We believe women are vital to the church, and the numbers prove it! 

More than 50% of those who attend our churches are women, and almost 

25% of our AG credentialed ministers are women. In our local churches, 

you will find some type of ministry for women, whether through an 

organized Women's Ministry department, a small group or one-on-one. 

In addition, women are an essential part of the Assemblies of God, as 

shown by this official position paper: 

The Assemblies of God have been blessed and must continue to be blessed by the 

ministry of God's gifted and commissioned daughters. The Bible repeatedly affirms 

that God pours out His Spirit upon both men and women and thereby gifts both 

sexes for ministry in His Church. Therefore, we must continue to demonstrate the gifts 

of women in ministry and spiritual leadership. 

(taken from the Role of Women in Ministry – adopted August 9-11, 2010) 

Because of the value placed on women, the PennDel Ministry Network 

Leadership Team includes a Women's Director and Department. 

Our mission statement is: 

PennDel Women (PDW) exists to create experiences to inspire 

women to encounter Jesus, live empowered by the Holy Spirit, 

and be equipped to impact their communities. 

“The speakers and breakout sessions 

were outstanding!” 

“I love the time spent in The Holy Spirit 

and the willingness of the prayer team.” 

—Women's Conference Attendees 

“Being a part of Women’s Ministry 

enabled me to move forward with a 

true joy for all God has blessed me with. 

Sharing side by side with women that 

were at first strangers, that became true 

friends. The women shared and cared, 

and God did the rest!“ 

—Deb 

The PennDel Women’s Ministry goal is to help churches succeed by coming alongside them as a resource. 

We endeavor to create experiences, training and relationships that encourage growth and inspiration for 

women in your church and those who serve in leadership. Some of the ways we do this are: 

INSPIRE SPRING TOUR 

This is an "in-person" event or the 

event can be live-streamed to your 

church. We provide the speakers and 

downloadable resources, allowing you 

to customize the event for your church. 

MISSIONS EXPERIENCES 

PennDel Women (PDW) organizes 

mission trips both in our Network and 

overseas so women may experience the 

power of serving with other women in a 

context outside the church. 

TRAINING 

Our LEAD WELL arm of PDW provides 

online training and connection for your 

women who are leading, both inside 

and outside the church. 

SOCIAL MEDIA 

PDW is active on our social media 

channels, inspiring throughout the 

week with posts and live engagement 

opportunities. 

REPLENISH 

This annual retreat for your Women's 

Ministry Leaders is a time of enrichment 

and refreshing so that they can serve 

more effectively. 

For more 

information 

about Women's 

Ministry: 

INSPIRE CONFERENCE 

This conference, typically held in 

November, is the year's highlight for 

many churches. PDW bring dynamic 

speakers and worship together for an 

unforgettable overnight experience. 

Typically, over 3,000 women attend this 

flagship event. 

DREAM TEAM 

PDW have team members across our 

Network who are willing to help the 

Women’s Ministries in YOUR CHURCH. 

Whether organizing an event or 

encouraging your leaders, they want to 

serve in any way they can. 


16 MENS MINISTRY 

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A PLACE FOR MEN 

PennDel Men’s Ministries is dedicated to helping men 

connect and deepen their faith in Christ. We learned years 

ago that we can’t walk this journey of life and faith alone. 

Unfortunately, many men have experienced a “friendship recession” and are dealing 

with loneliness. To further the challenge, some men escape into addictions ranging from 

workaholism, pornography, alcoholism and drug abuse which contribute to increased 

isolation. We believe that the local church can meet this challenge! Not only does the church 

provide opportunities for community among men, but is also a place to connect for a higher 

calling. To help in their ministry to men, the PennDel Ministry Network is committed to 

resourcing the local church in the following ways: 

CONNECT 

360MAN CONFERENCE is one of the most powerful 

connection events of the year. Held each October, 

men receive motivational teaching, inspiring music and 

powerful opportunities to respond. At each conference, 

men make life-changing decisions to follow Christ and to 

lead in their home, workplace, church and community. 

COACH 

Through MEN’S MINISTRIES ZOOM sessions, we coach 

Men’s Ministry leaders how to create, capture 

and sustain momentum in their local church Men’s 

Ministries. We help the local men’s leaders plan: 

REACH events (e.g., BaconFest, Wild Game Nights, 

WingFest). 

TEACH groups (e.g., men’s discipleship studies on 

identity, relationships, purpose, vision). 

RELEASE opportunities (e.g., short-term mission’s trips, 

mentoring, church multiplication). 

“My life has been broken in many ways... I 

have lost almost everything... was living under 

negative labels… now I am set free from the 

labels... believing God for a future that needs 

me and am thankful for being freed from 

a past that has been dragging me down... 

planning to walk through the doors that are 

set before me.... and to be found faithful.” 

—Men’s Conference Attendee 

COLLABORATE 

PennDel Men’s Ministries partner with these amazing ministries to men 

to help you and your church’s Men’s Ministry: 

MANTOUR MINISTRIES hosts a weekly men’s podcast and provides 

regional men’s training events that gives men the opportunity to ask 

questions and challenge one another. 

ADVENTUREMEN provides men with an opportunity to participate in 

adventure experiences like cycling, four-wheeling and Adventurefest, 

an annual outdoor men’s camping event. 

THINK MISSIONS leads missions trips for men’s groups around the 

world. 

LIGHT FOR THE LOST is a coordinated Assemblies of God Men’s 

Ministries project that serves to empower the church to provide God’s 

Word for every person on the planet. 

PennDel Men’s 

Ministries is here 

to help you and 

your local men’s 

group grow! 

You can find discipleship 

resources, event information 

and links to these ministry 

partners at penndel.org/men 


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A PLACE TO CARE 

WORLD 

Be part of something global! 

In 1914, the Assemblies of God was formed following a fresh 

outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Early Assembly of God leaders had an 

immediate concern for the lost, compelling them to take the Gospel 

into all the world. This small, fearless group of men and women 

committed themselves in writing to “the greatest evangelism the world 

has ever seen.” They believed both Jesus’ command to reach the whole 

world and His promise that they would receive the Holy Spirit’s power 

to do it. 

MISSIONS WORLD MISSIONS GOALS: 

The Assemblies of God has one of the greatest missions endeavors in 

the world. Currently, there are nearly 2,600 missionaries serving in 252 

countries around the world. In the PennDel Ministry Network, which 

includes Pennsylvania and Delaware, there are thirty eight full-time 

missionaries and nineteen mission associates who serve in various parts 

of the world. 

There is a church in Western Pennsylvania that raised $40,000 to plant 

churches in India. One of the churches planted is located in a village 

where children are sold into the sex slave market in Bombay. This 

church, served by Assembly of God missionaries, works with the young 

girls in the village to educate and share the Gospel with them, rescuing 

them from a life of captivity in the sex slave market. 

Each local church adopts missionaries and mission’s projects partnering 

with our missionaries to present the Gospel around the world. 

REACHING those who do not know Jesus with 

the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ with 

every means possible. Missionaries hold open 

air crusades and churches are being planted 

almost daily in remote jungles and locations 

around the world. 

TRAINING believers worldwide to proclaim 

the Gospel to their own people. Our 

missionaries are teaching at Bible Colleges and 

schools in the native tongue of the people they 

serve, training them to go back to their villages 

and towns to influence others for Christ. 

SERVING the poor and suffering with 

compassion ministries. Food and clothing 

distribution centers, medical facilities, 

restoration services, rescuing children from 

child predators and drilling water wells are only 

a few outreaches made available to those in 

need through missionaries serving on the field. 

Lives around the world 

are being changed daily 

by those who give financially, 

pray faithfully and serve unselfishly. 

19 

I would like to introduce you to Juan Bravo. Juan lives in the jungle in 

Honduras. Juan attends a Bible School. To get to the Bible School, 

Juan travels through the mountains on horseback, down the river 

in a canoe and hops on a bus to his destination. The trip takes him 

two days. Following a week of classes taught by Assembly of God 

missionaries, Juan makes the journey back to his house church in the 

jungle where he shares the Gospel message literally with dozens of 

people who come to receive ministry. 


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US MISSIONS 

A PLACE 

TO SERVE 

When we think about missions work, many times 

we think of locations overseas like Africa, Asia and 

third world countries. But, what about here in the 

United States? 

Through your church, PennDel and AG U.S. 

Missions, people groups are being reached 

that aren’t necessarily ministered to through the 

traditional church format. These men and women 

step in the gap as “missionaries” and chaplains. 

We would love to talk with you if you sense God calling you 

to support or otherwise serve in one of these areas: 

CHAPLAINCY MINISTRIES 

Chaplains are ordinary people who are inspired by extraordinary 

purpose. They minister to a group of people outside church walls. Like 

Jesus’ ministry in houses and hillsides, they are shoulder-to-shoulder 

with people in the moments when they need His hope and truth. 

Chaplains can turn a Humvee into a pulpit or provide counseling in a 

squad car. For chaplains, ministry opportunities and locations change 

every day. Here are some of the places you can minister as a PennDel 

Chaplain: 

Professional sports locker rooms | Manufacturing plants | Rescue 

missions | Truck stops | Motorcycle rallies | Fire and police stations 

| Veterans’ facilities | Rodeos | Military bases | Disaster sites | Large 

corporations | Racetracks | Airports | Hospitals | Prisons 

“Only a week into the semester and we have already launched four 

Life Groups… We've also seen new students show interest in joining 

Chi Alpha through responding to our website and Instagram posts. 

Even though the campus was more strict with what we could do, 

fall brought us our most well-attended outreach events and small 

groups filled with students ready to deepen their faith.” 

— Alycia, Chi Alpha Campus Missionary 

CHI ALPHA CAMPUS MINISTRIES 

College is an incredible time of transition for students. 

Chi Alpha Campus Missionaries are excited to guide 

students through their college years. They help 

encourage students to start their walk with God and 

equip them through Spirit-filled communities of prayer, 

worship, fellowship and discipleship. 

PennDel Chi Alpha Campus Missionaries are available to 

help you to reach your local college campus and each 

year they host a retreat for college students and young 

adults. 

The local church supports U.S. Missions through prayer, 

giving and adopting projects and/or personnel. 

INTERCULTURAL MINISTRIES 

God is bringing the world to our doors. 

Pennsylvania and Delaware are changing - the 

world has come to us. PennDel Intercultural 

Missionaries serve by reaching people, in their 

own language and culture, and by offering 

English as a Second Language (ESL) classes in 

their communities. 

Intercultural Missionaries also serve with 

compassion those who have been impacted by 

disability and by rescuing women and children 

from human trafficking and prostitution. 

Here is one of the stories from the Philly 

Dream Center: 

“The ministry saved my life and 

pulled me out of the depths of hell,” 

says Jessica, “I don’t know where I 

would be or how my life would be if 

these women didn’t come and save 

me and show me how much Jesus 

loves me.” 

RV MINISTRY 

RV volunteers come from a variety of 

professional and vocational backgrounds. 

RVers combine their skills and their recreation 

vehicle to supply volunteer labor for ministry 

building projects all across the United States, 

including right here in PennDel. Many are 

retired or near retirement, but don’t have to 

be. RVers can serve for a few weeks to months 

at a location such as the University of Valley 

Forge or the Bongiorno Conference Center. 

We invite you to 

become a part of the 

movement God is 

using to reach the 

changing face of 

America! 

NEXT STEPS 

There are many ways to become involved in PennDel U.S. Missions. For starters, 

you can become part of our prayer team. When you sign up on the PennDel 

website, you will receive regular emails with prayer requests and prayer focuses 

for the coming month. Above all, our missionaries need your prayer support! 

To fulfill the Great Commission here in the United States, it takes people. Both 

full-time and short-term opportunities are available. We have a place for you to 

serve locally, regionally or nationally if you are feeling the tug to do something 

extraordinary! 


22 23 

A PLACE TO 

REFRESH 

A PLACE TO HEAL 

Find REST, Live FREE 

Emerge Counseling Ministries began in 1973 under the leadership of Dr. Richard 

Dobbins in Akron, Ohio. Dr. Dobbins was able to integrate both therapeutic 

excellence with the Christian Faith. PennDel Ministry Network partnered with 

Emerge because of their high level of clinical expertise as well as their solid 

biblical foundation. Emerge Ministry counselors are well-trained therapists 

and are also Christians with a vibrant spiritual personal life. This approach is 

affectionately called the Emerge Way. 

The Emerge Way of counseling is the integration of biblical truth with proven 

psychological insights to help people find rest and live free as Christ intended. 

Often times, a church, through its pastor or pastoral team, is able to provide 

pastoral care and guidance. However, periodically individuals and families face 

circumstances that require additional care. This is where our Emerge Counseling 

Center comes in. Through In-Person and Telehealth appointments, our local 

churches can serve individuals and families across in Pennsylvania. 

“In Emerge, I found a place to 

heal and grow closer to Jesus” 

As you seek to find rest and live free, our 

trained clinicians are equipped to help you 

with any of the following common concerns: 

• ADDICTIONS 

• ADHD 

• ADJUSTMENT TO LIFE STRESSORS 

• ANGER MANAGEMENT 

• ANXIETY 

• CHILDHOOD BEHAVIORAL ISSUES 

• DEPRESSION 

• EMOTIONAL ABUSE 

• GRIEF & LOSS 

• MARRIAGE & FAMILY ISSUES 

• MOOD DISORDERS 

• PARENTING ISSUES 

• PREVENTATIVE MARRIAGE CARE 

• PHYSICAL ABUSE 

• POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS 

• SELF-ESTEEM ISSUES 

• SELF-INJURING BEHAVIOR 

• SEXUAL ABUSE 

• STRESS 

• SUICIDAL THOUGHTS 

• TRAUMA 

Situated in the scenic Cumberland Valley, the Bongiorno 

Conference Center provides a clean, safe and exciting 

environment for you and your family. The PennDel 

Ministry Network hosts numerous camps, leadership 

retreats and conferences throughout the year. We would 

love to be able to have you as one of our guests! 

Please check with your church leadership team for 

events that are on the calendar for this year or plan your 

own leadership retreat, conference, camping excursion 

or even a family reunion! We desire to host those muchneeded 

moments for you to breathe in the air, receive 

from the Lord and leave refreshed. 

If you or your family are navigating through an issue that may require 

professional Christian counseling, PLEASE have a conversation with 

your pastor. If we can ever be of service to you, do not hesitate to 

reach out through the contact information below. Our team can 

answer any questions you may have and will assist you in making 

your first appointment. 

www.Emerge.org/PA or 1 (800) 621-5207 

Our Physical address for those in Pennsylvania is: 4651 Westport Dr.; Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 

COME AND SEE US IN CARLISLE, 

PENNSYLVANIA WHERE WE SAY 

“Bongiorno - It’s a good day!” 

For more information, go to 

bcc.bongiorno.com

24 25 

A PLACE TO LEARN 

A PLACE TO INVEST 

Our fellowship embraces the opportunity to equip 

believers for a life of service and leadership in the church 

and in the “marketplace.” Although all believers are 

called by God to serve Him by serving others, there 

are some individuals that God has chosen to serve in 

vocational ministry. In order to serve the Lord in this 

capacity most effectively, we have a variety of ministry 

preparation pathways. 

The PennDel School of Ministry (PDSOM) is a hybrid 

between online courses taken individually but processed 

as a class in order to enjoy a community learning 

experience which includes instruction from a qualified 

minister and student interaction. Although PDSOM is 

not an accredited college degree, the courses are fully 

recognized to fulfill the educational requirements for 

Assemblies of God ministerial credentials. 

The University of Valley Forge is a regional, fully 

accredited college that offers both ministry preparation 

tracts, as well as a wide variety of undergraduate 

and graduate degrees that will prepare students for 

leadership and careers in marketplace contexts. 

PENNDEL SCHOOL OF MINISTRY 

The most exciting leadership training tool 

in the Assemblies of God! 

PDSOM 

PENNDEL SCHOOL OF MINISTRY 

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 

penndelsom.org 

Bob Lecocq • Dean 

724-689-3929 • dean@penndelsom.org 

When you hear the word “invest” 

what do you think of: stocks, 

bonds, retirement, wealth, 

financial security, etc.? 

Investing involves all those things and more. 

Through an organization named “Heritage 

Investment Services Fund” (HIS Fund), the 

PennDel Ministry Network of the Assemblies of 

God offers an investment opportunity that not 

only helps build financial wealth for its investors 

but also helps to bring hope and healing to the 

less fortunate of society through the outreach 

and ministry of the local church. HIS Fund is a 

church extension loan fund that lends to qualified 

Assemblies of God churches located throughout 

the United States. HIS Fund lends for the purpose 

of building, renovating and/or purchasing facilities 

to enable feeding programs, prison ministries, 

child and adult daycare services and a host of 

other compassion ministries. These purposes lift 

up the needy and downtrodden of society and 

give them dignity and resources to live productive 

and fulfilling lives. HIS Fund has been providing 

our Assemblies of God family a place to invest for 

40 years and offers competitive interest rates to 

investors who desire to use their money to build 

wealth and to build a better society. 

For more information, visit the HIS Fund website at 

www.hisfund.com or call the HIS Fund office at 

(866) 219-0820. 

Investment Interest Rates 

5 Year Note 3.75% 


2½ Year Note 3.00% 


6 Month Note 2.50% 

Demand Note 1.50% 

($500 minimum investment for all notes) 

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.

A PLACE TO 

BELIEVE 

WE BELIEVE in one God who is the 

Creator of all things. He is all-knowing 

and all-powerful. He is unconditionally 

loving, relentlessly merciful, and 

absolutely just. He has revealed 

Himself as Father, Son and Holy Spirit; 

otherwise known as the Trinity. 

WE BELIEVE that Jesus Christ was fully 

human and fully God. He lived a sinless 

life. He died a substitutionary death on 

the cross. He was raised from the dead 

three days after His crucifixion. 

WE BELIEVE that all humans are 

created in the image of God. 

WE BELIEVE that all have sinned and 

fallen short of the glory of God. 

WE BELIEVE that unconditional love, 

unlimited forgiveness and undying 

hope are found in Jesus Christ—the 

one and only mediator between God 

and man. 

WE BELIEVE that God is beyond 

human reason and imagination, but 

He has revealed Himself through His 

word. The Bible is our source of divine 

inspiration and timeless wisdom. 

We believe the Bible is inspired, 

authoritative and infallible. 

WE BELIEVE the Spirit of God indwells 

every believer. The fruits of the Spirit 

are the by-product of a Spirit-filled life 

and evidence of spiritual maturity. The 

gifts and baptism of the Spirit should 

be earnestly sought and used to serve 

others and glorify God. 

This is a condensed version of the 

Assemblies of God Statement of 

Fundamental Truths. 

A complete statement of faith is 

available at www.ag.org. 

A PLACE FOR YOU IN 

HEAVEN 

» THE HOPE « 

You might remember the movie that came out in 

2014, “Heaven Is For Real,” based on the #1 New York 

Times best-selling book by the same title. It's a story 

about a little boy named Colton who claims to have 

visited Heaven during a near-death experience. In an 

interview on The 700 Club, he ends with these words, 

“Heaven is for real, and you’re going to like it!” 

All of our Assembly of God churches believe those 

words – HEAVEN IS FOR REAL! We believe Jesus when 

he said, “…a great reward awaits you in heaven.” 

(Matthew 5:12/NLT) We also think this invitation is 

open to every human being on earth. 

» THE PROMISE « 

Jesus said in John 14:1-4, “Don’t let your hearts be 

troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is 

more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this 

were not so, would I have told you that I am going to 

prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I 

will come and get you, so that you will always be with 

me where I am. And you know the way to where I am 

going.” (NLT) 

Paul said in I Corinthians 2:9 “No eye has seen, no ear 

has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has 

prepared for those who love him.” (NLT) 

Do you see it? The promise is that Jesus is preparing 

a place for each of us – that is beyond our wildest 

imagination. There are no sights or sounds on earth 

that can come close to the sights and sounds of 

Heaven. When Jesus uses the word YOU four times in 

John 14, he means You! He has always been thinking 

about you spending eternity with Him in Heaven. 

» THE PREPARATION « 

Something as crucial as where I will spend eternity has 

to move beyond just a wish or chance. Jesus said, “You 

know the way to where I am going.” Paul said, “God 

has prepared (this place) for those who love him.” 

The following words that Jesus utters in John are some 

of his most famous words: “I am the way, the truth, and 

the life. No one comes to the Father except through 

me.” (John 14:6/NLT) You see, the preparation is 

deciding to give your heart (your everything) to Jesus. 

The world would love to convince us that there are 

many roads (many ways), but Jesus said, “I am the way.” 

Today is a good day to invite Jesus to come into your 

life and let him take control. 

» THE ASSURANCE « 

1 John 5:11-12 “And this is what God has testified, 

He has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 

Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not 

have God’s Son does not have life..” (NLT) The word 

“testified” means, assurance, guarantee, and record. 

He is saying, “If you have Jesus in your life – you have 

eternity in Heaven.” In a world of uncertainty, you can 

know that you know when you take your last breath on 

earth – you will take your next breath in Heaven. That’s 

the gospel, what we call the good news! And it’s for 

YOU! There is a place for you in Heaven. There are a 

few conditions. 

First, you must believe. 

Secondly, you must accept God’s forgiveness. 

Thirdly, if you believe God’s promise and accept that 

promise through God’s forgiveness, you will become 

God’s child. John said it this way: “…to all who 

believed Him and accepted Him, He gave the right to 

become children of God.” (John 1:12, NLT) 

Do you believe in Him? Have you accepted Him? This is the pathway to the place (Heaven) 

He has prepared for everyone He has given eternal life. 

Our prayer for YOU is that you begin a relationship with God through Jesus His Son! 

27 


4651 Westport Drive 

Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 

Find us online: penndel.org 

Join us on Social Media: 


PennDelMinistryNetwork 

#penndelag 

A PLACE FOR 

YOU

Connexion Q3 2021 - There's A Place For You

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