Leadership Connexion Summer 2022 Q2

PennDel Ministry Network | Summer 2022 

DISCIPLING THE NEXT GENERATION 

OF ASSEMBLIES OF GOD BELIEVERS

C O N F E R E N C E 

Bongiorno Conference Center, Carlisle, PA 

October 24-26, 2022 

Growing Young: 


OF ASSEMBLIES OF GOD BELIEVERS 

Our team is looking forward to resourcing your team at THRIVE! 

SPECIAL GUEST 

WORKSHOPS INCLUDE: 

• 7 Dimensions of a Disciple: Elly Marroquin 

• Maximizing Benefits for All Ages: 

Randall Rhoads & Crystal Hoffman 

• New Trends in Church Recalibration: 

Jason Tourville 

• Relational Evangelism: Fight Fight Feed 

Joel Schreiber & XA Team 

• Mental Health Hygiene: Jim Comenzo 

• Conflict Management is a Discipleship Issue: 

Tim Halbfoerster 

• 3 Intentional Ways to Disciple the Next 

Generation: Elly Marroquin 

• Creatively Discipling Children: 

Jeremiah Gruber 

• Healing Leadership Wounds: Jason Tourville 

• Pastoring your Staff, Leaders & Volunteers: 

Kurt & Charisse Jenkins 

• Reaching the Dechurched and Unchurched: 

Gary Bellis 

• Planning for Succession: Bill Ellis 

SESSIONS INCLUDE: 

SESSION 1: MISSION DRIVEN DISCIPLESHIP 

Don Immel & Elly Marroquin 

SESSION 2: NEVER TOO YOUNG 

Jeremiah Gruber 

SESSION 3: NEXT GEN DISCIPLESHIP 

Lee Rogers 

SESSION 4: FORWARD THINKING 

Liz DeFrain & Tom Rees 

FOR MORE 

INFORMATION: 

Sessions, Workshops, 

Lodging, Meals, Activities, 

Childcare: 

penndel.org/thrive22

Growing Young: 


OF ASSEMBLIES OF GOD BELIEVERS 

We know instinctively that if a church 

continuously grows older without renewing its 

age demographics, the church will eventually 

die. I was on vacation last year and visited a church in 

Cape Cod. The people were friendly and kind. We were 

in the midst of COVID, and the church’s worship was 

being conducted outside in the parking lot. I noticed 

that almost everyone was my age or older. The church’s 

reality was summed up by their nursery, which was now 

filled with storage materials. It then occurred to me that 

I saw only two children at the church. What is the future 

of this fellowship? If they do not turn their demographic 

around, their prospects are very limited. Although we 

value all believers regardless of age, we know that there 

is hope for the future when there is a strong attendance 

of younger families and individuals. Strong churches 

tend to be multi-generational. In a healthy 

multi-generational church, wisdom of life 

experience is appreciated and the presence 

of younger believers is welcomed. Generational 

conflict is minimal, and generational compliment is normal. 

Growing old is inevitable, but growing young has to be 

intentional. Kara Powell, author of the book Growing 

Young, observed: “The truth is, every church 

needs young people. Their passion enriches 

the soil around them. The curiosity they bring 

to Scripture and the authenticity they bring 

to relationships keep your church’s teaching 

fresh and fellowship fruitful. Young people also 

need a thriving church. A thriving church both 

grounds them in community and sends them 

out to serve. Your church needs young people, 

and they need your church. One without the 

other is incomplete.” 1 

This year’s THRIVE conference will emphasize 

discipleship. Discipleship is the mission of the church 

(Matthew 28:18-20). Many churches have experienced 

decrease in their discipleship efforts due to stress on 

schedules and the loss of interest in early morning classes 

(i.e., Sunday School). Despite competition for time and 

the challenges of recruiting teachers and volunteers, 

the church is still commissioned to make disciples. 

How do we grow young, and grow young disciples? 

Erwin McManus said, “Healthy churches reach young 

people, and young people make churches healthier. If 

your church is reaching 20-year-olds, your church will 

reach 60-year-olds.” 2 Growing young will be our focus 

in discipleship at THRIVE. Our Network team is excited 

to help your team develop strong discipleship initiatives, 

while simultaneously speaking to the needs of developing 

a multi-generational approach to a thriving, missional 

church. I was visiting Central AG in Houston for their 70th 

anniversary, and so appreciated Pastor Kurt Jenkins’ 

statement: “Our young people are not the church of 

tomorrow…they are the church of today!” Growing 

individuals from making a decision to follow Jesus to living 

the Spirit-filled life of a follower is our call, our passion and 

our greatest joy (Acts 13:52). When we do this effectively, 

we will experience the same outcomes of the early 

church: “Then the word of God spread, and the 

number of disciples multiplied greatly…” (Acts 

6:7) Spreading the gospel and growing the family of God, 

young and old, into fully devoted followers of Christ, will 

result in a thriving church! 

1 Powell, Kara; Mulder, Jake; Griffin, Brad. Growing Young (p. 14). 

Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition 

2 Powell, Kara; Mulder, Jake; Griffin, Brad. Growing Young (p. 34). 

Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition. 

NETWORK SUPERINTENDENT | Donald J. Immel | 717.795.5921 | don@penndel.org 

In a healthy multi-generational church 

wisdom of life experience is appreciated, and the 

presence of younger believers is welcomed. 

LEADERSHIPconnexion | Summer 2022 3

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT | Steve DeFrain | 484.686.4843 | sdefrain@penndel.org 

You have to see it 

Before you see it! 

After I turned sixty, one Sunday at Morning Star, I told the congregation, “I’ve got a good ten years 

left in ministry. My dream is to grow younger and older at the same time.” Shortly after, I doubted 

the first part of the statement. I couldn’t see myself going to seventy, but I did run with the dream of 

growing younger and older over the next several years. What was the process that would help me 

accomplish that dream? 

Make it your Focus: 

God asked Jeremiah an important 

question twice in the first chapter, “What 

do you see?” Then God responded, 

“You have seen correctly, for I am 

watching to see that my word is 

fulfilled.” (Jeremiah 1:12/NIV) Once 

I made the statement about the dream, 

it became my focus, and with God’s 

grace, it began to happen. It wasn’t long 

before we added three thirty-somethings 

on the Deacon Board. We intentionally 

gave them a place at the table. We 

saw a movement among our young 

families, and they started forming small 

groups. The worship team began to pull 

in the younger generation. Teenagers 

felt welcome to serve in the children’s 

ministry. We saw the youth getting 

trained to operate cameras and help with 

Sunday morning media production. We 

were simultaneously getting younger and 

older because we made it our focus. 

Liz and I were walking around our 

neighborhood one day, and we started 

talking about the beautiful changes 

happening at church. Out of my mouth 

came the words, “You have to see it – 

before you see it!” 

This process begins when you hear God 

ask you the question, “What do you 

see?” 

Make it your Prayer: 

It was Paul who said to Timothy, “I 

remember your genuine faith, for 

you share the faith that first filled 

your grandmother, Lois, and your 

mother, Eunice. And I know that 

same faith continues strong in you.” 

(2 Timothy 1:5/NLT) Paul rejoices in 

seeing faith passed on from the older 

to the younger generation. He doesn’t 

stop there but makes that generation 

the focus of His prayer. “Night and day 

I constantly remember you in my 

prayers.” (2 Timothy 1:4/NLT) We can 

give them two things. First, we remember 

them. We recognize that they are the 

future. We remind ourselves that it’s our 

responsibility to activate their faith to lead 

in the church now. Second, they need 

to be a big part of our prayer life. We 

make them our prayer focus. Paul says, 

I remember your faith. I remember you 

in prayer. I remind you to fan into flames 

the spiritual gifts God gave you. “This is 

why I remind you to fan into flames 

the spiritual gift God gave you when 

I laid my hands on you.” (2 Timothy 

1:6/NLT) That’s good! Remember their 

faith. Remember them in your prayers. 

Remind them that now is the time to 

activate their spiritual gifts. 

Make it your Future: 

On October 13, 2019, Liz & I transitioned 

after thirty-eight years of serving Morning 

Star Fellowship into our next season of 

life. It’s hard to express all the emotions 

we felt on that final Sunday. But one 

thing was evident as I looked across the 

platform, Pastor Chad had just turned 

forty-five, most of the staff were even 

younger, and by God’s grace, the church 

was ready for the future. 

“This is why I 

remind you to 

fan into flames 

the spiritual gift 

God gave you 

when I laid my 

hands on you.” 

2 Timothy 1:6/NLT 

4

PENNDEL SCHOOL OF MINISTRY 

ANNOUNCES THE BEGINNING 

OF OUR BIBLE INSTITUTE! 

This course is designed specifically for people who love 

to study the Bible. If you are a home group leader, Sunday 

School teacher, mid-week service speaker or just love to 

study the Bible, this course is for you! (This does not equate 

to Ministerial Credentials) 

Registration opens August 1, 2022 for our NEW one year 

Bible Institute with classes beginning September 2022 

YOU WILL: 

• Register online for an initial one-time fee of $75 

• Enroll in each class for $75 each 

• Receive a Study Guide for each class 

• Purchase your textbook via Amazon, etc. 

• Attend class one Saturday a month at the campus 

nearest you 

• Learn from a Pentecostal perspective and receive 

concentrated, in-depth, Bible instruction from anointed 

Bible teachers 

• Be graded on your Study Guide and Final Exam 

• Have your grades posted to your transcript should you 

decide to continue with PDSOM 

• Graduate with a diploma from the PDSOM Bible Institute 

You will Study alongside the PDSOM students. The 

curriculum for the Bible Institute is comprised of the 

following classes: Corinthians, Synoptic Gospels, Acts, 

Romans, Prison Epistles, Pentateuch, Old Testament Survey, 

New Testament Survey, and the Poetic Books 

WITH THE LORD 

FRANCES TRYON, 84, passed away on 

November 9, 2021. She was a graduate of EBI/ 

UVF, Harrisburg Area Community College, North 

Central Bible College and Regent University. She 

was proceeded in death by her faithful husband, 

Gary, of fifty-four years. Together, they served 

the following PennDel churches: Nicholson, St. 

Thomas, Pitcairn, Enola, New Kingston and 

Elizabethtown. 

MARILYN CLINE, 88, passed away on March 

10, 2022. She is survived by her faithful husband, 

Thomas. Together, they served the following 

PennDel churches as lead pastor: Lock Haven, 

Beaver Falls, Mercer and Mt. Pleasant. Marilyn 

was well known for the best roast beef dinners 

she prepared for missionaries. She was also 

known for her pleasant smile. 

THOMAS A GEIGER, 93, passed away on April 

5, 2022. He was a graduate of UVF (Eastern 

Bible Institute) and also served in the United State 

Navy for three years. Tom served as a youth 

pastor in Huntingdon and later as lead pastor 

to the following PennDel Churches: Port Matilda 

and Towanda. He was preceded in death by his 

faithful wife, Pauline. 

CARRIE B MAHAFFEY, 89, passed away on 

April 13, 2022. She is survived by her faithful 

husband, Arthur. Together they pastored the 

following PennDel Churches: Shanksville and 

Manheim. Carrie touched many lives serving 

alongside her husband as a pastor’s wife. She 

was famous for her chocolate cake with the 

creamiest peanut butter frosting! 

(MARY) JEANNE MYERS, 97, passed away on 

June 20, 2022. She was preceded in death by 

her husband, John J Myers. Together they served 

the following PennDel Churches: New Life AG, 

Lancaster (staff pastor) and Marietta AG (staff 

pastor). 

SECRETARY/TREASURER | Jeff Marshall | 717.795.5921 | jeff@penndel.org 

This is the school and the study of God’s Word you have 

always wanted! 

Take as many classes as you desire. A diploma awarded to 

those who finish all nine classes. 

Registration begins August 1, 2022. 

For more information: www.penndelsom.org 

(Correction from a previous ConneXion) 

GUY (BOB) FERGUSON, 73, passed away on 

November 7, 2021. He is survived by his faithful 

wife, Liz. Together they pastored the following 

PennDel Churches: Philipsburg, Orbisonia, Red 

Lion, Manheim and Hillsdale. 


WORLD MISSIONS | Jeff Marshall | 717.795.5921 | jeff@penndel.org 

Thank you PennDel for Giving 

In January of 2019 we stood under a tree 

in an open field in Olancho, Honduras 

dreaming. This was the location Mike 

Brown and Freddy Vasquez, missionaries 

to Honduras, selected as the future site 

of the Honduras Transformation Project 

(HTP). At this time the property was not 

purchased. Pastor Don Immel, myself 

and a team of pastors from PennDel 

traveled to Honduras to investigate the 

possibility of adopting the HTP as our 

World Missions Project. We spent a few 

days canoeing down Putuca River, riding 

donkeys over the mountains, living in 

the jungle to get the feel of what some 

individuals experience just to take some 

Bible classes. God birthed a passion in 

our hearts for the people of Honduras. 

We returned to the states, raised the 

money to purchase the land and called 

Mike Brown to give him the green light to 

make the dream a reality. We presented 

the vision to the churches in PennDel 

and you responded with love, prayers 

and finances. Construction on the HTP 

started. Then COVID hit. Construction 

was brought to a halt. But the dream 

lived on. Mike, Freddy and their team in 

Honduras found a way and construction 

started again in spite of many limitations. 

On May 30, 2022, Pastor Don, myself 

and another team of pastors stand on the 

same sight we prayed over and dreamed 

about in 2019. Today we see the dream 

as a reality. The Bible tells us “Without a 

vision, people perish.” A group of pastors 

and missionaries had a vision for a Bible 

school in Honduras, today that vision has 

become a reality. 

My heart was filled with joy and 

excitement as Mike gave us a tour of a 

two story school building with classrooms 

on the first floor and dormitories on the 

second floor. The Superintendent of 

Honduras made a statement, “this is 

one of the nicest buildings in Honduras.” 

But that's not all. Just behind the school 

building is a full-functioning cafeteria 

with a kitchen and large room. A church 

building sits to the right of the school and 

a storage building stands to the left. The 

buildings were built by construction teams 

from churches in the states as well as 

native Hondurans. 

The dedication proceeded with the 

Superintendent from Honduras as well 

as other executives from the surrounding 

area and Pastor Don along with the 

team from the United States. We sang 

praises to God and gave thanks to Him in 

HONDURAS PROJECT 

TOTAL COLLECTED 

FOR THE 3 YEAR 

PROJECT (2019-2021): 

$167,257.56 

prayer as two nations came together to 

build the Honduras Bible Institute for the 

glory of God. And what is also exciting 

is that Bible classes started the day after 

the dedication. Many will come into the 

saving knowledge of Jesus as a result of 

two nations coming together to build the 

Honduras Transformation Project. 

6 

2022 Project: Tanzania 

Goal: $60,000 

Your gift will assist in planting churches in Tanzania. 

Total received as of May 12, 2022: $45,963.47 

PennDel Ministry Network 

ATTN: World Missions 

Project Offering 

4651 Westport Drive 

Mechanicsburg PA 17055

UKRAINE: 

From Grieving to Action 

January 29, 2022 will forever be a day etched in my memory. 

It’s not a birthday, not an anniversary, and not even my spiritual 

birthday. It’s a dark date for us. It’s the date we were evacuated out 

of Ukraine. I never want to see another day like January 29, 2022. 

Dates like this remind me of defeat and loss. When you have built 

a ministry based upon years of partnership with nationals and 

unlimited hours of prayer and work, it stings even more when 

you are forced to abandon the work. I am sure many pastors, 

missionaries and leaders have experienced this set back in the role 

that God has called them to. The victory is never seen during the 

darkness, but the seeds of hope are there. What God has allowed 

us to do, since January 29, has been truly amazing. 

As the church has rallied around the cries of our brothers and 

sisters in Ukraine, we have been able to be a channel for helping. 

Soon after the Russians advanced into Ukraine on February 24, 

PennDel churches immediately responded. Very quickly, we 

went from grieving to action. Throughout the last four years 

of ministry in Ukraine, I can see now how God had prepared us 

for this moment. Our ministry helped us create a strong network 

that stretched into all corners of Ukraine geographically with both 

church and political leaders. As a result, we straightaway knew 

where the biggest needs and losses were occurring. 

Over the last few months, we have received more than $100,000 in 

donations from churches and donors across the PennDel Ministry 

Network. These funds have helped with the following: 

• Establishing a warehouse in Kharkiv (twenty-five miles from the 

Russian border), employing four people and supplying 1,000 

people a week 

• Purchasing a van to help transport people, food and medicine 

in the hard-to-reach places. Over ten sets of body armor have 

SERVING IN UKRAINE. EURASIA 

Ron & Amy Jones with Josiah, 

Samuel, and Hannah 

been purchased to protect pastors and workers in the war zone. 

We have provided support to Ukrainian refugees (many pastor’s 

wives and children) who have escaped to Europe 

• Purchasing fuel, bread, medicine and gas masks 

• Installing a large capacity generator in a church to continue 24/7 

ministry 

• Helped repair and fund a new church plant in Cherkasy and 

assisted them in obtaining food supplies 

• Repairing a church that was hit by rockets 

• Making sure that our partner churches in Ukraine continued to be 

able to share the Gospel in every community 

What began as the darkest period of our ministry, has now been 

transformed into the beginning of a redeeming message of love. 

As many of you have stood with us and supported our Ukrainian 

church family, we have become an even stronger church. Every 

day, I receive messages of appreciation from believers throughout 

Ukraine. They would want me to say how grateful they are for your 

love and support during this time. Please join us to continually pray 

for the people of Ukraine. 

“The light shines in the darkness, 

and the darkness can never extinguish it.” 

John 1:5 NLT 


GUEST CONTRIBUTOR | Elly Marroquin | National Director of the Assemblies of God Christian Education and Discipleship 

As the National Director 

of the Assemblies of 

God Christian Education 

and Discipleship 

Department, Rev. Elly 

Marroquin desires to 

see an intergenerational, 

Spirit-empowered church 

demonstrating a growing 

knowledge of God’s Word. 

Having been saved in an 

AG church while attending 

a Girl’s Ministry meeting, 

Elly understands the 

importance of discipleship 

and the knowledge of 

God’s Word. Until recently, 

she and her husband, 

Sergio, pastored Prince 

of Peace Church in 

Garfield, NJ which they 

planted in 2000. Elly has 

two master’s degrees in 

Bilingual Education and 

Educational Leadership. 

Prior to her appointment, 

Elly served as the Spanish 

Eastern District Director 

of Christian Education 

where she oversaw 491 

churches in 16 states and 

80 schools of ministry. She 

currently serves on the 

board at The University of 

Valley Forge. 

Sergio and Elly have two 

wonderful daughters. 

7Ways To Create 

A Church Culture 

Saturated With 

The Word Of God 

#1 Approach God’s Word daily with a posture of expectancy. 

The Bible is a treasure chest. Open your Bible each day expecting God to say something. 

#2 Be a catalyst for change by modeling what you want to see. 

Ensure that you hold your team accountable by asking them, “What did God say to you 

today?” When asked for your advice and opinion, always begin by saying, “let’s see what 

God’s Word has to tell us about this.” God’s Word has something to tell us about every topic 

and gives us the best advice to live our lives. 

#3 Be intentional. 

As we know, church does not exist primarily to entertain, nor does it exist primarily for 

fellowship within its four walls. We have to be intentional about making lifelong followers of 

Jesus because it will not happen automatically. For example, I ask a fellow ministry leader 

each week what he’s reading in the Bible that came alive to him. Beyond programs, we have 

to ask these questions and initiate these conversations. 

#4 Take on an apprentice. 

Wake up every day and ask yourself, “Who am I going to pour into? And what am I going to 

pour into them?” I’m only in this role today because people invited me to be their apprentice. 

Take someone under your wing and say, “This is how to lead a Sunday school class or small 

group” or “This is how to lead a girls ministry group.” Give people opportunities to serve and learn. 

8

Elly on 

Discipleship 

Discipleship is not a program; it is 

the core of the church – it is our 

mission! it’s not a multi-week series 

on following Jesus. Rather, it’s a 

journey that starts when you begin 

opening up your heart and mind to 

Jesus, and it’s a journey that lasts 

a lifetime. 

#5 

Embody the Word by walking with people through 

their messiness. 

People come from all sorts of backgrounds. The church needs to be a place where 

people from any background can come and have others surround them and introduce 

them to Jesus so they can be restored. This is not a program; this is a nurturing 

environment. We do not see any examples in the Word where Jesus rejected people 

because of their messiness; neither should we. 

#6 

Evaluate whether your church is growing or stagnating 

in discipleship. 

What measurements do you have in place? If people are only attending on Sunday 

but not investing in small groups or midweek service, there’s a high chance they’re 

not engaged in everyday growth. Discipleship requires growth. Be patient. Remember 

discipleship is a process. Not everyone grows at the same rate, but must be growing 

nonetheless. Is your church facilitating and measuring growth? This is why Disciple 

Well, a resource of the Christian Education and Discipleship ministry office, exists: your 

church may be discipling, but is it discipling well? Learn more at discipleship.ag.org. 

#7 Never stop growing. 

You can’t take your congregation where you’ve never been. You can’t teach the book 

of Daniel unless you’ve studied it for yourself. If you’re not growing, you can’t bring 

people alongside you and be pouring into them: what would you be pouring? 

The mandate for discipleship 

(Matthew 28:18-20) is ultimately 

about making disciples. It is twofold 

encompassing transformation 

and multiplication. Transformation 

is the work of the Holy Spirit. We 

are incapable of achieving true 

lasting transformation without Him. 

As we engage God’s Word, our 

relationship with Jesus deepens. 

Moreover, genuine, meaningful 

relationships with committed 

believers helps us grow. The 

other component, multiplication 

is essential in a disciple making 

culture. Sheep multiply! Thus, 

disciples are called to teach others 

and make other disciples. 

A disciple, by definition, is a learner. 

In our context, this is someone 

who learns to discern God’s voice 

and distinguish truth from lies. 

This is critical among a culture that 

doesn’t believe that truth is found 

in God’s Word. A disciple yearns 

for Christlikeness and manifests 

the Fruit of the Spirit. A disciple is 

committed to learning God’s will 

and living it out regardless of the 

cost. We all have different callings, 

and there are so many giftings 

among the body of Christ: we have 

to be okay with following as part of 

discipleship, with being the pinkie 

finger, so to speak, rather than the 

whole hand or foot. A disciple is 

the best at what he or she is called 

to be, whatever that is. However, 

in whatever we do, our primary 

assignment is to make disciples of 

others for Jesus. 


MINISTER CARE & CHURCH RECALIBRATION | Jason Tourville | 717.795.5921 | jason@penndel.org 

reVITALize FAITH 

in the Next Generation 

Is Biblical faith dead to the next generation? Let’s take a look. While only 17% of Americans are 

65 and older, a recent study revealed that 33% of U.S. congregations are senior citizens. 1 This represents 

nearly double the national age range involved in our churches. Should this figure concern us? Yes and 

No! In some ways, there has always been a drop off of college age and young adults attending our 

congregations simply due to life stage. So, this statistic is nothing new. On the other hand, the disparity 

between the numbers (17%-33%) is much higher than it has ever been. Additionally, our culture has been 

radically redefined through fresh doses of secularism, relativism and a resurgence of Gnosticism that is 

forcing us to realize that we are in a battle for the next generation. 

“Church leaders must also grapple with 

the generational slide away from religion. 

Millennials are much less likely than their 

elders to indicate a religious preference, 

and presumably the nearly one-third of 

millennials without a religious preference 

are unlikely to ever join a church.” 2 

Behind the Scenes 

Relationship and trust are not built from 

the platform or behind a pulpit; they are 

established behind the scenes. When 

leaders take a vested interest in the next 

generation, time is spent investing in them 

one-on-one. This includes more than 

downloading Biblical information from an 

experienced disciple of Jesus to the less 

experienced. It involves taking them out 

for a meal, providing a safe relationship to 

process life and stressors, and being with 

them, not for what we can get from them, 

but simply to be with them. 

According to research conducted by 

LifeWay, “Having other adults and more 

adults develop healthy relationships 

with teenagers increases the odds 

those students will remain in church 

as adults.” 3 If we are to revitalize faith 

with the next generation, it will happen 

behind the scenes as we spend time 

with them. 

In addition, helping the next generation 

learn to serve behind the scenes without 

notoriety or accolades, helps form the 

heart of the servant. Not all ministry 

work is on the platform. Perhaps like 

me, in the early years of ministry, I 

cleaned toilets, mopped floors, set-up 

tables and chairs and much more. 

Around the Table 

The second strategy to revitalize faith 

in the next generation is to invite them 

to the table. This means giving them a 

voice in board meetings, including them 

on committees and certainly involving 

them as leaders of teams. This is never 

about replacing the older generation, but 

assuring that the next generation is both 

learning from their elders and informing 

their elders about what it takes to reach 

and teach this next generation. 

Much is learned around the table. A key 

benefit is building faith in what God can 

do and will do. Whether it is a financial 

need of the church or a prayer request 

supernaturally answered, faith arises 

when we are at the table together. This 

is one approach we can take to fulfill 

2 Timothy 2:2, “And the things that 

you have heard from me among many 

witnesses, commit these to faithful men 

who will be able to teach others also.” 

While Paul’s words include Biblical 

instruction, we also need to show them 

as they are around the table with us. 

On the Platform 

Providing significant opportunities for 

ministry is a key element for revitalizing 

the faith of the next generation. Most of 

us have grown and developed into the 

spiritual leaders we are today because 

someone gave us a chance, when 

truthfully, we weren’t quite prepared 

or ready. However, ministry in front of 

others oftentimes grows our faith and 

causes all of us to press into God more 

deeply. 

In addition, when we entrust significant 

ministry, such as speaking or other 

ministry on the platform, it speaks value 

to the one we are raising up. Also, it 

lets others know that we value the next 

generation. People must see what we 

expect. If we desire that our churches 

reach the next generation, then we 

need to provide space for them to 

minister with the unrefined gifts God has 

deposited in them. 

10

At the Altar 

Raising the next generation of disciples can seem like 

a daunting task. However, Jesus provided much of the 

direction in the gospels as recorded in the conversations 

He had with his disciples. One such telling interaction is 

found in Luke 11:1, “Now it came to pass, as He was 

praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His 

disciples said to Him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, as John also 

taught his disciples.’” We will never revitalize faith in the 

next generation unless we lead them to the altar in prayer. 

This form of discipleship involves three elements: modeling, 

instruction and experience. 

Is Biblical faith dead in the next generation…ABSOLUTELY 

NOT. However, it is the role of the mature to invest in those 

who are at the beginning of their journey. This process of 

discipleship must be done intentionally and not given to 

chance. Let me suggest, find at least one young adult and 

begin to invest in them through the strategies listed above 

and watch what God will do. 

1 https://research.lifeway.com/2021/11/01/ 

americas-pastors-and-churchgoers-are-getting-older/ 

2 https://news.gallup.com/poll/248837/church-membership-downsharply-past-two-decades.aspx 

3 https://research.lifeway. 

com/2021/10/07/5-keys-to-preventing-church-dropouts/ 

Individual, Couples and Family 

Counseling available to you, 

your family and your church. 

Accepts most forms of insurance • Online or In-Person 

www.Emerge.org/PA • 800-621-5207 

THRIVING CHURCH CONSULTING 

Consultants will come alongside a church in a 2-phase 

process, which includes an assessment, strategic 

recommendations and implementation coaching. 

www.recalibratechurch.org/Consulting 

DISCOVER MORE 

www.recalibratechurch.org/consulting 

Thrive Fund 

Partnership Works 

River of Life Assembly of God in Sunbury, PA, pastored 

by Rev. Jan Krebs, was re-launched in June 2022. 

Through support from the THRIVE FUND, partnership 

with their section and another Assembly of God 

church, the church has grown from 20 to 75 people. 

From financial assistance, help with outreaches and 

work teams, partnership does work! 

A big thank you to all our PennDel churches who are 

faithfully giving toward the THRIVE FUND. You are 

making a difference one church at a time. 

To learn more or donate visit 

www.PennDel.org/ThriveFund. 

Around the Network 

AGWM Commissioning 

David and Lauren Perdan were 

commissioned as Assemblies of God 

World Missionaries at a Commissioning 

Service held at Central Assembly of God 

in Springfield, Missouri. David and Lauren 

are itinerating across the Network raising 

support to plant a fully deaf church in 

Tsukuba, Japan. 

70th Anniversary Celebration 

Central Assembly of God, Houston, PA 

Pastor Kurt & Charisse Jenkins 

LEADERSHIPconnexion | Summer 2022 

11

May 2-5, 2022 

Christian Life Assembly 

Camp Hill, PA 

Ordination Celebration May 5, 2022 

Congratulations 

to our Jubilarians 

(50 Years Ordained) 

Front Row (Left to Right): 

Stan Williams, Glenn White 

Back Frow (Left to Right): 

Jonathan Baker, Dale Bupp, 

David Crosby Sr, Cliff Hamilton Jr, 

Dennis Sproull 

(unable to attend) 

Richard Grimes 

12

Congratulations to the Ordination Class of 2022! 

Scott & Melissa Ball 

Andrea Bello 

Peter & Diane Bjornstad 

Daniel & Tanya Burke 

Cynthia & Vaughn Burkett 

Donald & Autumn Galade 

Tamera Garris 

Melissa Golden 

Blessy Mathew & 

Mathew James 

Joshua & Allison Kollar 

B. Joshua & Susan LeBlanc 

Thomas & Cecelia Manning 

Tamera & Robert Morgan 

Reginald Nesamoni & 

Caroline Reginald 

Donna Noll 

Timothy O'Brien 

Adam & Katherine Olson 

Lindsay Piermani-Brace & 

Matthew Kastner 

Jose John & 

Gifty Karuvelil Sam 

Allyson Sarring 

Timothy Jr. & Nicole Schaefer 

Donald & Heather Sitter 

Edward & Glori Slate 

Rickey VanBuren Jr. 


Discipling Teenagers 

YOUTH MINISTRIES/DYD | Lee Rogers | 717.795.5921 | lee@penndel.org 

The Seven Dimensions of a Spirit-Filled Teenager 

The challenges of discipling a young person in the confusion of today’s culture is no simple task. It is critical that youth 

pastors and leaders align activities, teaching/preaching and pastoral care with the desired discipleship development and 

outcomes. In developing the “Seven Dimensions of a Spirit-Filled Disciple,” the Assemblies of God gave careful thought 

to how each dimension applies to various age groups, including teenagers. Below are some snippets of each dimension 

and how youth pastors and leaders can apply these to their youth ministries today. 

Dimension Description 1 Applications 

Bible 

Holy Spirit 

Mission 

Disciples trust God’s Word, develop a deeper 

understanding of Scripture, apply biblical truths and 

principles to life, and obey the Scriptures in all things. 

Disciples continue to seek to be baptized in the Holy 

Spirit, operate in this empowerment, and identify and 

begin to demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit. 

Disciples boldly share their personal faith story and 

the good news of salvation with friends and family to 

make disciples of all classes, ethnicities, and cultures. 

Bible Engagement Project 

Bible Quiz 

Scripture Reading Plans/Apps 

Altar Times 

Camps & Retreats 

Youth Group/Small Groups 

Youth Alive 

Campus Missionaries & Clubs 

AIM/Missions Trips 

Prayer 

Disciples learn to hear and obey God’s voice, 

experience God’s presence in solitude and in 

corporate settings, and learn to bring all feelings and 

needs to God. 

Personal Devotional Plans 

Altar Times 

See You At The Pole 

Worship 

Service 

Disciples worship personally and corporately, 

choosing gratitude and praise as a lifestyle, and 

practice obedience to God as worship. 

Disciples take the initiative to serve in the church and 

in the world, developing and utilizing their God-given 

gifts for serving others, and understand that service is 

an act of worship to God. 

Youth & Church Worship 

Services 

Worship Playlists 

Fine Arts 

Student Leadership Teams 

Volunteerism in church and 

community 

AIM/Missions Trips 

Generosity 

Disciples biblically manage their resources well, giving 

the Lord’s tithe and offerings beyond the tithe, give 

freely of possessions, and give with compassion for 

the broken, poor, and vulnerable. 

Tithing 

Speed-the-Light 

Monthly Missionary Support 

1 Adapted from Seven Dimensions of a Spirit-Filled Disciple, The General Council of the Assemblies of God, 2022, available at https://discipleship.ag.org. 

14

YPR2022 : PennDel Youth Network Youth Pastors Retreat : December 8-10, 2022

CHILDREN AND DISCIPLESHIP | Jeremiah Gruber | 717.795.5921 

Growing Young 

BY SHOWING 

THE YOUNG 

Have you recently tried to put something together using 

an instruction manual? Over the last few months, I 

have put together many pieces of furniture during the 

remodeling of our basement. Moving into a new office has also 

involved following instructions for assembling a desk, chairs, 

etc. As a father, every Christmas and for other occasions 

throughout the year, I am the one tasked with taking the many 

components of a child’s toy and completing the project. (Who 

makes these toys so difficult and with so many pieces anyway?) 

Some of the manuals that I have used have been very vague 

with only written instructions. A few manuals have included 

pictures. However, my favorite instructions to follow are those 

that have a visual guide or video showing me the ins and outs of 

the assembly process. These will often include images or video 

of an actual person giving me step-by-step guidance. 

God’s Word is the instruction manual for our lives, and 

discipleship is all about showing others how to apply Scripture 

to our daily lives. In today’s society, we see a lot of “do what I 

say and not as I do.” What if the command to “go and make 

disciples” is less about telling the next generation what a disciple 

of Jesus should look like and more about showing them what 

a disciple of Jesus should live like? What if we are called to do 

more than simply say “be like Jesus,” but rather to clearly show 

the next generation a step-by-step blueprint of what it means to 

live like Jesus? What if we are called to not only teach the Word 

but to demonstrate that the Word is alive and active in our lives? 

At the THRIVE Conference this fall, we will be sharing practical 

ways that our Fellowship, Network, and local churches can 

continue Growing Young and Disciple the Next Generation 

of Assemblies of God Believers. Until then, I encourage 

you to pray, seek God, and allow His Spirit to show you ways 

that you can disciple the next generation to be like Jesus. The 

Assemblies of God has a great discipleship platform to mentor 

those who teach children. HYDRATE is designed to help 

children’s leaders: 

1. Be encouraged and inspired 

2. Connect with other leaders 

3. Lead with confidence 

For more information, visit: kidmin.ag.org/hydrate. 

(Several scholarships are available through our department, 

please email me at jeremiah@penndel.org to receive the 

application.) 

If our department can help you reach children and disciple 

those who lead your children’s ministries, we would love to 

collaborate with you. 

In closing, I pray that the words of the following poem inspire 

you to be an example of godliness to the next generation. 

These thoughts have reminded me of my responsibility over the 

last twenty years of ministry (top of next page): 

16

I’d Rather See A Sermon 

Poet: Edgar A. Guest 

I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day; 

I’d rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way. 

The eye’s a better pupil and more willing than the ear, 

Fine counsel is confusing, but example’s always clear; 

And the best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds, 

For to see good put in action is what everybody needs. 

I soon can learn to do it if you’ll let me see it done; 

I can watch your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run. 

And the lecture you deliver may be very wise and true, 

But I’d rather get my lessons by observing what you do; 

For I might misunderstand you and the high advise you give, 

But there’s no misunderstanding how you act and how you live. 

When I see a deed of kindness, I am eager to be kind. 

When a weaker brother stumbles and a strong man stays behind 

Just to see if he can help him, then the wish grows strong in me 

To become as big and thoughtful as I know that friend to be. 

And all travelers can witness that the best of guides today 

Is not the one who tells them, but the one who shows the way. 

One good man teaches many, men believe what they behold; 

One deed of kindness noticed is worth forty that are told. 

Who stands with men of honor learns to hold his honor dear, 

For right living speaks a language which to every one is clear. 

Though an able speaker charms me with his eloquence, I say, 

I’d rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day. 

One of the number one quotes we hear 

from children’s leaders is: 

“We feel like we are in this alone.” 

Help us connect with your children’s pastor, 

director, or key lay leaders! 

We would love to uplift them, provide with resources, and remind them that they 

are not alone. Please share our Facebook Community with those key leaders, and 

encourage them to join. 

Search for “PennDel Kidmin Community” on Facebook. 

If they do not have a Facebook account, have them emailjeremiah@penndel.org, 

and our team will connect with them! Sectional kidmin/children’s ministry connection 

events will be coming this fall. 


CHURCH PLANTING | TOM REES | 717.795.5921 | tom@penndel.org 

CHANGE 

CHURCH 

Covocational Church Planting 

ELIJAH AND ASHLEE HOLLIS have had a burning 

passion for ministry since they were young. For those who rub 

shoulders with them, their energy and vision are contagious. 

Through creativity, serving, and connection, they planted 

CHANGE CHURCH in the heart of Philadelphia with their 

children, Zion Dainger and Aunee Colette. 

Elijah and Ashlee are what we call, “covo church planters.” 

Leaders who thrive not only in the church but also in the 

marketplace. In his book, “Covocational Church Planting: 

Aligning Your Marketplace Calling and the Mission of God,” 

Brad Brisco writes, 

“A ‘covo’ planter is one 

who knows God has 

called them to be a 

teacher, or a mechanic, 

a web designer, or a 

doctor and they desire 

to weave that calling 

into the plan to plant 

a church. They realize 

those two callings are 

not isolated from one 

Elijah and Ashlee Hollis with 

Zion and Aunee 

another, but instead 

are actually interlinked 

and equal.” 

Ashlee is the President and Founder of Helm Creative Studio, 

a certified women-owned business and creative agency that 

is redefining what it means to lead one’s story in business and 

entrepreneurship. At Helm, Elijah builds out the stories as a 

videographer, director, writer, producer, voice-over artist and 

musician. 

Helm just moved into The Story Factory, a 27,000 sq. ft. building 

in the Olde Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia. One of the 

best parts of this is that it provides a great space for CHANGE 

CHURCH, where they host church on Sundays. The facility will 

also be utilized for community outreaches and organizations, 

including relationships with local law enforcement, and an afterschool 

program to give students a place to get off the streets 

and learn creative arts, tutoring and to have a place for them to 

form their own community with people who care about them. 

CRANBERRY 

COMMUNITY CHURCH 

Bivocational Church Planting 

Born and raised in Georgia, 

JOSEPH GIBSON 

recognized God calling 

him into ministry in his 

late teens. He spent six 

years on active duty in 

the U.S. Air Force before 

attending Bible College at 

Southeastern University 

in Lakeland, FL. While 

attending school, Joseph 

joined the staff of The Way 

Community Church and 

served the congregation 

as an associate pastor and 

executive pastor. As graduation approached, Joseph and his 

wife, Emily, made the decision to move to Pennsylvania. After the 

move, Joseph and Emily began praying about if and where God 

might be calling them to plant a church. 

Joseph and Emily Gibson with 

John Ryan, Davey, and Hailey 

After driving through a community in the Northwest Section of 

PennDel with Presbyter Allan Thorpe, they soon felt God leading 

them to the Franklin/Cranberry/Oil City area in Venango County. 

Joseph started working in the area as a “bivo church planter.” 

A bivocational church planter is someone who starts a church 

and gains part of his personal income from an outside source. 

By working for the post office, this afforded a great opportunity 

for Joseph to get to know the community where they were 

called to minister. It wasn’t always easy balancing a full-time job, 

new church plant and a young family but God helped them and 

blessed their growing family. When they made the move in 2015, 

they had one son, John Ryan. Since then, Davey and Hailey 

joined the family. 

The following fall, CRANBERRY COMMUNITY CHURCH (CCC) 

held its first service in the Cranberry Mall. When Joseph and 

Emily launched the church, they said, “We realize the importance 

of establishing our identity from the very beginning as both a 

Great Commandment and a Great Commission church.” That 

vision has become a reality! Since then, Joseph and Emily have 

seen the lives of many people in the community transformed 

through a true encounter with the love of God. 

They believe that . . . “every chair has a story, and your story 

belongs here.” 

We pray that every story needing to feel at home with them 

would find its way to CHANGE. 

They have become a vibrant, life-giving, Spirit-filled church and in 

the past year, the church was able to bring Joseph on full-time, 

purchase and renovate a building in Seneca, and go sovereign. 

Joseph says, “We believe the Holy Spirit is doing something 

special in this area, and our hearts’ cry at CCC is to see 

revival in our hearts and in our community.” 

18

FORGED BY HIS FIRE 

Several years ago, I began watching “Forged in Fire” on the 

History Channel. This show features world-class bladesmiths 

competing against each other to create some of history’s most 

iconic edged weapons. In one of the rounds, the judges put 

each weapon through a series of tests to gauge properties such 

as sharpness, durability and ease of use. For these tests, the 

weapons are used to chop/slash/stab objects that include ropes, 

ice blocks, animal bones/carcasses, and metal plumbing pipes. 

This is like CHOPPED for Men’s Ministries! 

Forging is the process where metal is placed under extreme 

pressure to create great strength. The three main processes 

used in forging are: 

• FORGING HAMMERS can have a driving force of up to 

50,000 pounds and pound the metal into shape. 

• FORGING PRESSES can have a driving force of up to 

50,000 tons and squeeze the metal into shape vertically. 

• FORGING UPSETTERS use ring rollers to turn a hollow 

round piece of metal under extreme pressure against a 

rotating roll, thereby squeezing out a one-piece ring. 

This year’s theme for the Men’s Conference is FORGED BY 

HIS FIRE. This year let me encourage you to not only attend, 

but bring someone you know who is facing challenges. Each 

speaker will share how their lives were forged in adversity but 

God was faithful to help them move forward with boldness, 

courage, determination and purpose. We are believing that 

through God’s Spirit, men will be able to withstand adversity and 

be FORGED BY HIS SPIRIT. 

FORGING FACTS 

Forging dates back 6,000 years to Mesopotamia. 

Forging can create parts that are stronger than any 

other metalworking process. 

Forging is almost always used where reliability and 

human safety are critical. 

Over 18,000 forgings are contained in a Boeing 747. 

MEN'S MINISTRY | TOM REES | 717.795.5921 | tom@penndel.org 

Sometimes in life we find ourselves hammered, pressed and upset. 

Through it all, the pressure we face can be used by the Lord to create great strength! 

FOR MORE INFO: 

forgedbyhisfire.men 


PENNDEL WOMEN | Liz DeFrain | 484.686.4554 | liz@penndelwomen.com | penndelwomen.com 

The Grace, The Space 

and The Place to 

Grow Younger 

In the last few years I have developed a green thumb. My 

journey growing green plants began with an aloe sprig in 

a white coffee cup, which was given to me while visiting 

Morning Star Fellowship in Quakertown. For the first time in 

forty years, I had a windowsill in my kitchen, so I placed my 

fledgling aloe plant in the cup there. Each week I watered 

my sweet aloe plant. Over the next two and a half years, that 

small sprig has been replanted four times, finally landing in a 

large planter in my living room, exposed to a lot of sunlight. 

The plant won’t stop growing! At this point, I often joke 

that my plant feels like a child that I must care for, being 

responsible for its growth and life. Yet, strangely, I sometimes 

miss the old plant when it was smaller and seemed more 

manageable. 

Once given plenty of space to grow, new growth began to 

form from the sides of the plant, making it appear out of 

control to my neat and orderly eyes. 

God has used this visual in my life when bridging the gap 

between the older and younger generation of women. As we 

broaden our reach to include all ages, it may seem complicated 

to manage at times, but if we choose to stay comfortable, we 

will miss out on seeing the next generation thrive. 

Psalm 145:3-5 “Let each generation tell its children of your 

mighty acts; let them proclaim your power.” NLT 

I believe we can grow younger in our ministry 

by taking a few deliberate actions: 

First, make room for those coming up behind you. 

When I look at the young women I am privileged to lead, 

I want them to know I am their greatest cheerleader and 

encourager. Share your platforms with the next generation. 

Second, don’t be overwhelmed when you see them 

branching out on their own. Give those younger than you 

the support and guidance needed to excel. My plant keeps 

sprouting more leaves and the weight of the growth can make 

it unstable at times. My job is to make sure the root supports 

the growth. When I see it leaning in the wrong direction, I 

make the necessary adjustment to secure healthy growth. 

Finally, do not believe the enemy’s lie that you are 

no longer valuable as you grow older. The opposite is 

true. You have so much to give! Job 12:12 says, “Wisdom 

belongs to the aged, and understanding to the old.” The next 

generation needs your wisdom. 

“Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till 

I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts 

to all who are to come.” (Psalms 71:18 NLT) 

At Penndel Women, I want to lead well and create sustainable 

new growth for generations to come. I know you do too! 

20

What our gals are saying about 

Women in Ministry Retreat… 

“Thank you for how 

loved and valued you 

make us feel.” 

Robin Immel 

Women In Ministry Coordinator 

"WIM Retreat is the only 

place I am with people who 

understand my unique life 

~ They GET me!” 

FAQs 

“I can totally 

be myself!” 

Can I stay in a room by myself? 

YES! Private rooms are available, but they go 

fast, register early! 

GROWTH 

DOESN’T 

JUST HAPPEN 

Discipling the Next Generation of 

Assemblies of God Believers 

“Like newborn babies, you must crave pure 

spiritual milk so that you will grow into a 

full experience of salvation. Cry out for this 

nourishment.” 1Peter 2:2 

I have been incredibly blessed with four grandbabies – ages 

1-8. That is a lot of growing happening in one household! I have 

thoroughly enjoyed watching each of my favorite “Grands” as they 

experiment, experience and assimilate the levels of development. 

As an infant, Zack (8-year old) studied intently everything around 

him. Nothing escaped his gaze. As he became a toddler, he 

questioned everything so he could understand. Evie (5-year old) 

developed a fiercely independent spirit. Nothing will stop her from 

completing what she wants. Luke (3-year old) has an ornery, but 

incredibly kind heart. He has brought so much laughter to this 

grandmother! Then there is Addie Mae (1-year old). The surprise 

baby who has a way of bringing joy to everyone. She is the calm 

in chaos, but also has a very strong will. 

While each child is so very different, developmental milestones 

had to be achieved for growth to happen. The interesting and fun 

thing is that they did it at their own pace. Their development is 

their own story, their own journey. Left on their own, the maturing 

and development would not have happened. God provides 

parents (AND grandparents) to put things in place that encourage 

growth. Nick’s position (Dad) is to lead the family in the ways 

of God. Heidi (Mom) provides the physical nourishment and 

educational perspective. And, God has 

allowed me to pour into them wisdom 

from my life experiences. 

From each of these avenues a hunger 

for more of the good is developed. As 

they “taste and see” the satisfaction 

that is imparted, an appetite for more is 

developed. My two children developed 

a love and desire for really good 

mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese. It came because 

they were exposed to the good. They were raised eating it. They 

know the difference between good and mediocre. 

GIRLS MINISTRIES | Sharon Poole | sharonp@pdgirlsministries.com | penndel.org/girls 

Is their financial help if I can’t afford it? 

YES! Our gals and churches donate to a 

scholarship fund to help others. Talk with Robin 

Immel if finances are keeping you from coming. 

When does registration open? 

JULY 1, 2022 

Our desire should be to expose our children and the “spiritual 

babes” in our lives to the “pure spiritual milk” so that they develop 

that appetite for more. Growth doesn’t just happen. Opportunities 

for spiritual maturation are guided by our parents and mentors. I 

hope that I am one who is willing to be that to others. 

LEADERSHIPconnexion | Summer 2022 

21

“The Older We Get” 

BONGIORNO CONFERENCE CENTER | Carl Redding 

717.243.7381 | credding@bccretreats.com 

Thank you to all who have 

contributed to our Friends of 

Bongiorno program. Due to 

your faithfulness, we have 

completed our new hardscape 

with a firepit and furniture. It will 

be a favorite meeting space at 

BCC for years to come. 

Have you had that “the older we get” conversation with 

your spouse, kids, or, close friends?? I recently had 

a conversation with a good friend where we sat in a 

coffee shop reminiscing and “catching up” on life stuff, when it 

occurred to him, “man, we’re getting old…” The statement just 

made me laugh a little, even though the truth of it made both of 

us look inside ourselves. We thought about college, marriages, 

grandkids…it’s overwhelming to think about, and we are too 

young for this. 

The reality that time doesn’t stop for anyone is such a poignant 

reminder as the hair is thinning, the skin is wrinkling and the 

inner alarm is getting earlier and earlier for all of us. We need 

to constantly fight the mental battle of growing too old to 

make a difference where God has placed us. As we think 

about growing old… young, we love to offer ways at BCC that 

you can come and grow. Some people come to us just in need 

of a short rest. Some lead their kid’s camp group and that keeps 

them young. Some come with the intent of growing in faith or in 

leadership abilities. While still others come with the anticipation 

of seeing others grow. We love to be able to equip and provide 

opportunities for this growth. Our team is always here, willing to 

serve whatever needs you may have. If you are considering a 

retreat, please contact us. We would love to serve you and your 

people. Thank you for the opportunity to serve together in this 

great Network. 

Network Calendar 

AUGUST 

1-5 Kids’ Camp Week #4 – BCC 

1-5 National Fine Arts Festival (Youth) 

1-6 RR Junior Leadership Development Academy 

Merit Camp – Honey Grove 

12-14 Youth Bible Quiz Camp – BCC 

25-28 RR Aviation Action Camp 

26-27 PennDel Women Dream Team Meeting – BCC 

27 RR Camp Work Day – Honey Grove 

SEPTEMBER 

2-5 Family Camp – BCC 

5 PD Ministry Center Closed – Labor Day 

9-11 RR West Division Fall Camporee 

12 Presbytery Meeting – BCC 

13 Credential Interviews – BCC 

16-18 Women In Ministry Retreat – BCC 

16-17 RR East Division Fall Round-Up 

18 Campus Awareness Day (Youth) 


28 See You at the Pole (Youth) 

OCTOBER 

1 Ministers’ Appreciation Month 

1 Junior Bible Quiz Meet #1 


8-10 Youth Convention – Kalahari Resorts Poconos 

13 RR Camp Council & Leaders Web Conference (Zoom) 

14-15 Men’s Conference – CLA/Camp Hill 

14-16 RR George Washington FCF Fall Trace – Honey Grove 

15 Youth Bible Quiz Meet #1 

15 Credential Apps due for January Interviews 

16 National STL Day (Youth) 

17 Boss’s Day 

21-22 ACTS 2 Journey Retreat #4 (West) – Riverside/Oakmont 

21-23 Chi Alpha College Age Fall Retreat – BCC 

24-26 THRIVE Conference – BCC 

24-26 CE Bookstore @THRIVE – BCC 

26 World Missions Reps Meeting @ 1pm – BCC 

28-29 ACTS 2 Journey Retreat #4 (SE) – Evangel/Glenolden 

31 STL Tour (Youth) 

22

PennDel Royal Rangers 

What standard do you use to determine truth? There are 

so many ungodly cultural trends that boys are exposed 

to, they need to know how to determine the truth. Royal 

Rangers seek to disciple boys like Jesus discipled his followers. 

Our goal is to not only evangelize, but to equip and empower the 

next generation of godly servant leaders. 

Work has progressed on a shower house and the camp is being 

used by Outposts more and more, Church groups, and the first 

Girls Ministry group later this summer. Below are a few photos 

from the PennDel Royal Ranger PowWow held on June 24-26. 

Upcoming 

Events: 

Aug 1-6: 

Junior Leadership 

Merit Camp 

Aug 25-28: 

Aviation Action 

Camp 

Although it has been 

a challenge coming 

back after COVID 

shutdowns, we 

have seen six new 

Outposts begin. 

If your church is 

interested in the 

premier discipleship 

program for your boys, 

please contact us and 

we will be happy to 

show you how you 

can customize Royal 

Rangers for your 

church. 

ROYAL RANGERS | Steve Steffel | 302.379.1580 

pdrangers.org | Facebook: PennDel District Royal Rangers 

Pennsylvania-Delaware Ministry Network 


Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 

Read online: penndel.org/connexion 

Editor: . . . . . . . . . . Donald J. Immel 

Managing Editor: . . . . . Carole Bongiorno 

Volume 68 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 5,000. 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 


Pennsylvania-Delaware Ministry Network 


Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 

Find us online: penndel.org 

Join us on Social Media: 

PennDel Ministry Network 

PennDelMinistryNetwork 

#penndelag 

GROWING BY Design 

We Value 

YOUNG PEOPLE 

HIS Fund can help 

you renovate or 

expand children’s 

and youth space. 

We can help you with financing for your building needs 

as you communicate your values… 

We Value 

COMMUNITY 

HIS Fund can help you 

create spaces for people 

to connect in a café, lobby, 

playground, patio or 

multi-purpose facility. 

We Value 

WORSHIP 

HIS Fund can help you 

upgrade your sanctuary 

sound, projection, 

lighting and 

seating. 

Call us today and we’ll find a way to help you with flexible and competitive 

financing to help you meet the needs of a growing congregation! 

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.

Leadership Connexion Summer 2022 Q2

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