Leadership Connexion Fall 2024

THE ONE
“Bethlehem...out of you shall come forth to me the One”
Micah 5:2
PennDel Ministry Network | Holiday 2024

CALENDAR
DECEMBER
7 Youth Bible Quiz Meet #2
7 Ministry Map PDSOM
7 Royal Rangers District Conference
20 World Ministries Credit Worksheets Due
23 Christmas Eve: Ministry Center Closed
24 Merry Christmas: Ministry Center Closed
31 2025 Credential Renewal Deadline
31 New Year’s Eve: Ministry Center Closed
JANUARY
1 New Year’s Day: Ministry Center Closed
4 PDSOM: Central/Bethlehem
5 AG Week of Prayer
10-12 Youth Winter Retreat #1: BCC
11 JBQ Meet #3
11 PDSOM: Calvary/Wyncote
11 PDSOM: Calvary/Irwin
13 Presbytery Meeting: BCC
14 Credential Interviews: BCC
17-19 Youth Winter Retreat #2: BCC
18 Youth Bible Quiz Meet #3
18 PDSOM: CLA/Camp Hill
18 PDSOM: Calvary/Dover, DE
18 PDSOM: Orchard Beach/Northeast (Erie)
24-26 Youth Winter Retreat #3: BCC
24-25 JBQ Finals: CLA/Camp Hill
31 ACMR Deadline
FEBRUARY
1 PDSOM: Central/Bethlehem
7-8 Worship Conference: Central/Houston
8 Called One-Day Conference: UVF
8 PDSOM: Calvary/Wyncote @ Bensalem
8 PDSOM: Calvary/Irwin
15 PDSOM: CLA/Camp Hill
15 PDSOM: Calvary/Dover, DE
15 PDSOM: Orchard Beach/Northeast (Erie)
17 President’s Day: Ministry Center Closed
21-23 Kid’s Breakaway #1: BCC
22 Youth Bible Quiz #4
24 Sectional Councils: Location/Time TBD
NW & SWS
25 Sectional Councils: Location/Time TBD
SCW & SWM
27 Sectional Councils: Location/Time TBD
SC & SCE
28-March 2
Kid’s Breakaway #2: BCC
Pennsylvania-Delaware Ministry Network
4651 Westport Drive
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
EDITOR: Donald J. Immel
MANAGING EDITOR: Carole Bongiorno
Read online: penndel.org/connexion
Volume 70 Number 4–(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
Barry Brown Greater Philadelphia Area–GPA
Dwan Newsome South Central–SC
Kwaku Owusu-Boachie At-Large Ethnic
James Pentz North Central–NC
Tim Halbfoerster 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

NETWORK SUPERINTENDENT | DONALD J. IMMEL
Out of You Shall Come Forth
“The One”
Many of us, as parents, have done some level of
family planning. How many children to have, how
far apart to have them, and when to start a family.
Early in our marriage, Robin and I decided on three, with
the wish that we would launch our children into adulthood
by the time we were in our early 50’s. Our plans became
our realities, and we are blessed now to watch our children
raising their children. Our quiver is full, and the only regret
is that we don’t see our grandkids (and their parents!) as
often as we would like.
When we consider the revelation of scripture, we discover
that God was the ultimate family planner. The birth of His
Son was hinted at through the prophets for many centuries.
Among the miracles of Jesus birth is the unlikely assembly
of seemingly obscure prophetic predictions sprinkled
throughout the biblical record from Genesis through
Malachi. Micah 5:2 announces the place of Messiah’s birth,
while Luke 2:1-7 unpacks the historical circumstances that
necessitated a late-term journey, which led Joseph and
Mary to the town of Bethlehem. God foreknew Caesar
Augustus’ decree which drove the Savior’s parents to
their ancestral birthplace to be included in a mandatory
census. (I hate to fill out a mail-in or online form…imagine
this inconvenience!) While others were preoccupied
with fulfilling a bureaucratic mandate, God-incarnate was
initiating His destiny of redeeming humanity. God had
a plan, and an unlikely little seemingly inconsequential
hamlet called Bethlehem will forever be known as the
birthplace of Messiah!
Sometimes we are unaware that God is working out
His plans and purposes at unexpected times and in
unexpected places in our lives. It would have been easy
to miss the prophetic pre-announcement that “you,
Bethlehem, though you be little among the thousands of
Judah, yet out of you shall come forth the One…” (Micah
5:2) God had a plan back then…He has a plan right now.
He used little, unlikely Bethlehem to see His plans forward.
He will use the “little” and “unlikely” today to make Christ
and His redemption plan known in our world as well. I so
enjoy a song by Casting Crowns (see below) that identifies
the extraordinary occurring in the midst of the mundane.
As we celebrate Christmas, let’s be aware that this season
offers a myriad of opportunities for us to make the world
aware that “the One” has come!
717.795.5921 | don@penndel.org
Oh, little town of Bethlehem
Looks like another silent night
Above your deep and dreamless sleep
A giant star lights up the sky
And while you’re lying in the dark
There shines an everlasting light
For the King has left His throne
And is sleeping in a manger tonight, tonight
Oh Bethlehem, what you have missed while you were sleeping
For God became a man and stepped into your world today
Oh Bethlehem, you will go down in history
As a city with no room for its King
While You Were sleeping
by Casting Crowns
PennDel Ministry Network | CONNEXION
3

Bethlehem . . .
OUT OF YOU SHALL COME
FORTH TO ME THE ONE
“But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah,
who are too little to be among the clans of Judah,
from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel,
whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.”
Micah 5:2 (ESV)
4

GUEST CONTRIBUTOR | REV. DR. THOMAS W. KEINATH
Bethlehem—an insignificant village, host to a visiting innocent young girl,
finding a last resort in the humblest of settings—the birth of the King of all
kings came with the greatest of contrasts. Far above all human reason, this
mystery of all mysteries declares forever that our redemption has come not by
human plan but by God’s infinite grace and wisdom. And what a message is
concealed in that “Little Town” of Bethlehem!
Bethlehem, the “sweet” home of Naomi. What a bitter start to
her story! Hoping to find sustenance during famine, Naomi,
her husband and two sons went east to the hostile land of
Moab. There, her plot only worsened with the untimely death
of all three. “The hand of the LORD has gone out against me”
(Ruth 1:13) she cried to her daughters-in-law. Even to those
who welcomed her upon her return home, “Do not call me
Naomi (pleasant); call me Mara (bitter).” (20)
But there in Bethlehem, that bitterness melted away. God’s
hand was evident as her faithful daughter-in-law, Ruth, just
“happened” (2:3) to glean from the leftover grain along the
edge of a field belonging to Boaz. Oh, how Naomi’s heart
must have leaped as Ruth returned with more than a basketful
of grain. “Boaz,” she exclaimed, “The man is a close relative
of ours, one of our (kinsman) redeemers … May he be blessed
by the LORD, whose kindness has not forsaken the living or
the dead!” (2:20) Bethlehem—where bitterness was
turned to sweetness!
Bethlehem, the “fruitful” home of Ruth and Boaz. Naomi
had left when the basket in Bethlehem—that is, bêṯ leḥem
or “house of bread”—was empty. But together she and Ruth
returned “as the barley harvest was beginning.” (1:22) How
providential that the ancient name of this town was Ephrathah,
in Hebrew, “the place of fruitfulness or abundance.” And, how
Bethlehem would flourish!
In accordance with the Law of the Kinsman Redeemer, Naomi
and Ruth received ample provision with Ruth’s soon marriage
to Boaz. Yet, the plan of God was so much greater than that
new family could ever have imagined. As Matthew (1:5-6)
records in the lineage of Jesus, “Boaz the father of Obed,
whose mother was Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse
the father of King David.” Bethlehem—where bareness
was turned to fruitfulness!
Bethlehem, the ancestral home of “little” Davey, youngest of
eight. Surely, Eliab, the eldest son of Jesse would be anointed
Rev. Dr. Thomas W. Keinath
serves as lead pastor of Bread of
Life AG in Upper Darby, PA and
is also full-time professor at the
University of Valley Forge. He
has pastored congregations in
Pennsylvania and New Jersey,
filled several roles of leadership
within the NJ Ministry Network,
ministered extensively overseas,
and has authored multiple works
including a commentary on the
book of Revelation. Thomas
and his wife, Kim, have three
married daughters, all engaged
in full-time ministry, and seven
grandchildren.
king by the prophet
Samuel. No, “the Lord
said, ‘Do not look on
his appearance or on
the height of his stature,
because I have rejected
him. For the Lord sees
not as man sees: man
looks on the outward
appearance, but the Lord
looks on the heart.” (1
Samuel 16:7) In fact, six
more brothers would be
passed over. “There is still
the youngest,” said Jesse.
No, implied in that Hebrew word is more than the last born.
David was considered “small, insignificant, unimportant”
. . . to man, but not to God! Bethlehem—where
insignificance was turned to greatness!
And twenty-eight generations later, in the same fields where
Ruth once gleaned the harvest and David once tended sheep,
a heavenly host of angels brought the greatest of tidings to
shepherds, the least of Bethlehem’s townsfolk. “For unto you
is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the
Lord.” (Luke 2:11)
O Bethlehem—you who was thought too small, too
insignificant, “from you shall come forth for me one who is to
be ruler in Israel.” Sent “for me,” the Father declares, in the
fulfillment of His eternal plan. “Ruler in Israel,” Isaiah would
see the contrast too, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is
given; and the government (of the entire world; Zechariah
14:9) shall be upon his shoulder.” (Isaiah 9:6) A child, yet
eternal God Himself, “whose coming forth (or origin) is from
of old, from ancient days. No Hebrew phrase could carry
more implication; the Christ child is from everlasting—
to the human mind, beyond the vanishing point of our
comprehension.
Oh, Bethlehem! From bitterness to sweetness, from bareness to abundance, from the very least
has come the very greatest; from “the house of bread” has come the eternal “Bread of Life.”
PennDel Ministry Network | CONNEXION 5

484.686.4843 | sdefrain@penndel.org
ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT | STEVE DEFRAIN
GETTING READY FOR
JESUS THIS CHRISTMAS
I love how Micah makes the prophetic word a personal message to us. He said in Micah 5:2,
“Bethlehem…out of you shall come to me the one…” (NKJV) I’m so grateful that the Holy
Spirit opened my heart to the Savior of the world. I’m grateful that He came to me as a young teenager,
and my life has never been the same.
But honestly, I’ve had a Christmas or two where stuff crowded out the season. Way too many church
activities with a calendar full of events in December. I said to myself one year, “Jesus, I love you, but I hate
Christmas.” Fortunately, that inner cry led us to eliminate and realign the church calendar. We eliminated
some things and narrowed our focus on a Christmas sermon series and a big Christmas Eve service.
What do you or your church need to add or lay aside to experience His power and
presence this coming Christmas?
»
»
»
»
DECLUTTER: Churches can be guilty of adding more and more stuff. There are great outreaches
that fit perfectly into the Christmas season. Christmas is a great time to feature the kids and bring
grandparents and relatives to church. It’s a good time for parties and fellowship.
But the truth is that everything has a shelf life, and we should evaluate if any events have run their
course.
CHANGE UP: Maybe it’s time to break free from some routines and try something new. I know
we get stressed and anxious about the pushback that comes with change. Leadership requires us to
shake things up. I found that no one talks about it after one or two years. I remember the year after
we eliminated the Christmas dinner we hosted for over 600 guests. Someone told me, “Pastor, that
was my first exposure to the church, and shortly after that, I gave my life to Jesus.” That’s the kind of
pressure we must handle to experience something new.
ADD SOMETHING: In 2021, movie theaters held “Christmas with the Chosen – The
Messenger.” It blended clips of Biblical scenes from the first Christmas and contemporary Christian
music from various artists. Liz and I went to the Movie Tavern and had great food and a wonderful
experience. I still remember that Christmas season with great fondness.
READ SOMETHING: Susie Larson’s Daily Advent devotional titled “Prepare Him Room,”
and Max Lucado’s book on “Christmas Stories,” are both excellent choices. Reading through the
Christmas story a few times during December is always wise. There is nothing like reading a fresh
testimony of someone’s life-changing Christmas story.
Who knows, a little tweak here or a slight change there could be the very thing
that brings the freshness to Christmas that you’ve been longing for. May out of
Bethlehem come forth TO ME the one!
6

2025 Credential
Renewal is NOW LIVE!
PLEASE NOTE: HARDCOPY RENEWALS ARE
NO LONGER BEING MAILED OUT FROM
THE NATIONAL OFFICE.
1. Please go to https://ministers.
ag.org and click on the Log in with Your
AG Account button.
2. If you already have an AG Accounts
login, enter your email and password,
then select Login.
3. If you have not set up an AG Accounts
login yet, select Create Account and
follow the prompts. When asked “Are
you an AG Minister?” click Yes, then
enter your AG Account number and zip
code. Next, click Add Account Number.
4. Once logged in, you will be able to
update your contact information and
access other resources such as the
General Superintendent’s Value-Added
Videos, AG Church Directory, AG
Ministers Directory, and more.
Special Note: If you do not have access to
a computer, please contact your Sectional
Secretary to assist you with your 2025
Credential Renewal.
SECRETARY/TREASURER | JEFF MARSHALL
There is a passage of scripture that is often quoted from Zechariah 4:10, “Do not
despise the day of small beginnings.” We have a tendency to focus on
the big. It seems like the big churches and the big businesses receive all of the
attention. But when we look in the scriptures some big things happened in some small
places. We read in Judges 6, the story of one who was living in a small city but rose to be
a mighty military leader and Judge. Gideon was working at the threshing floor one day
when an angel appeared to him and declared, “Mighty Hero, the LORD is with
you.” (Judges 6:12) The angel then told him that God was sending him to rescue Israel.
Gideon’s response from Judges 6:15, “Pardon me, my lord, but how can I save Israel?
My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family,” to which the LORD
said to him, “I will be with you.” Gideon went on to be a mighty military leader, even
though he was from a weak, small tribe and the least in his family.
We then read about the first king chosen for Israel. Samuel, the prophet of God, was
told by God to anoint a king of Israel. The LORD led him to the tribe of Benjamin. Samuel
chose a man named Saul. We find Saul’s response in 1 Samuel 9:21, “But am I not a
Benjamite, from the smallest tribe of Israel, and is not my clan the least of
all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why do you say such a thing to me?”
One from the smallest tribes in Israel was chosen to be the first king of Israel.
Micah 5:2 reads, “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small
among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be
ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” We
once again see this fulfilled. One of the greatest kings of Israel, David, was born in
Bethlehem. And the ultimate fulfilment in Matthew 2:6, “But you, Bethlehem, in
the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out
of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.” Our Lord and
Savior was born in Bethlehem, a small town in Judah.
717.795.5921 | jeff@penndel.org
If you do not renew your credentials
before December 31, 2024, you
will have to pay a late fee…and who
wants to do that right after Christmas!
Size does not matter to our God. He can take the smallest and make it the greatest. It
does not matter where you live, where you are in the social status or how much you have
or don’t have. God can use you! Be encouraged this Christmas season. Open your
heart to God. He has an amazing plan for your life.
WITH THE LORD:
Darlene M. Bishop, 74, passed away on
August 7. She was born in Reading and
graduated from the Reading School District.
She went on to attend Howard University
where she was the first in her family to
graduate college and became a certified
elementary school teacher. She later became
certified with the Assemblies of God and was
an active bible teacher at Glad Tidings AG in
Reading. Darlene is survived by her husband,
Melvin.
Ronald L. Sexton, 83, passed away on
August 10. He is survived by his faithful wife,
Shirley, his high school sweetheart. Married for
sixty-five years, they served the Lord together
in their community and family. Ron was
ordained by the Assemblies of God Church
and pastored the El Shaddai AG Church in
Nazareth for five years. He then returned to
Indiana where he founded and pastored the
Full Gospel AG Church for forty years.
Norma R. Kummerer, 87, passed away
on September 1. She is survived by her
faithful husband, Gene, of seventy years
of marriage. Together, they pastored the
following churches in our PennDel Ministry
Network: Orbisonia, St Thomas, and Beaver
Falls. The Kummerer’s were approved as
AG World Missionaries in 1970 and served
with distinction for the next thirty-six years.
They represented our Network as PennDel
Missionaries to West Africa and Europe.
Charles R. Hill, 78, passed away on
September 16. He is survived by his faithful
wife, Betty Jo. He graduated from Monongahela
High School and Berean School of the Bible/
Global University. Charles became an Ordained
minister with the Assemblies of God. He
was a lead pastor in PennDel at the following
churches: Brownsville and Donora. Later he
served on staff in New Stanton.
Betty Swank, 91, passed away on September
16. She was preceded in death by her husband,
John Swank. In 1998, they moved to the PennDel
Ministry Network to serve with the AG U.S.
Missions Department in the Ebensburg area.
Their chaplain ministry throughout Cambria
County was significant to the inmates of several
prisons and surrounding communities.
Robert J. Lecocq, 69, passed away on
October 17. He is survived by his faithful wife,
Debbie. Together they served in ministry for
46 years. During Bob’s years in our PennDel
Ministry Network, he was an Assistant
Presbyter, Lead pastor in Lower Burell and our
Founding Dean of PennDel School of Ministry.
Upon retirement, Bob and Debbie moved to
Florida.
PennDel Ministry Network | CONNEXION 7

GUEST CONTRIBUTOR | OMAR BEILER
JERUSALEM SCHOOL
BETHLEHEM
When Western Evangelical missionaries first began
to arrive in the Middle East in the 19th Century,
they faced numerous barriers and restrictions
imposed on them by the Ottoman Empire. Faced with the
inability to engage in open evangelism or plant or build
churches, these missionaries turned to the only activities open
to them: building hospitals and starting schools.
While these endeavors were not without their challenges,
they proved to be remarkably effective in establishing a
presence of the Church in the Middle East. Many of these
schools went on to be important educational institutions for
the elite of Middle Eastern society and morphed into premier
universities. Unfortunately, many of them also lost their way
and detached themselves from their faith foundations and
mission.
Though times have changed and new avenues for evangelism
have emerged, the Middle East remains a difficult place for
the Church. What also remains is the importance of education
for families and communities. A locally facing school (schools
that are intended to serve a local population and not a foreign
community) is still one of the surest ways of engaging a
community, building relationships and establishing a Gospel
presence.
In places where a good education remains one of the only
means forward in life, a school that opens up not only local,
but international, pathways is valued highly. This is true even if
that school is openly Christian. Parents willingly look beyond
the religious implications in exchange for the opportunities
that quality education affords. Schools that are able to
maintain their purpose and mission, and that stay grounded in
Christ have the incredible ability, year after year, to pour Jesus
into the lives of students.
Such a place is the Jerusalem School – Bethlehem (JSB).
Located just a few miles from where Jesus of Nazareth was
born, JSB is a light in a dark and increasingly troubled land.
Founded in 1998, JSB has grown from a handful of elementary
students gathered in a home to over 700 students from
Kindergarten through
High School. The
reputation of the school
within the community
and the surrounding
communities has
allowed it to survive
repeated attempts to
control and restrict
its impact by a hostile
and often antagonistic
government. Students
graduating from JSB
have gone on to some
of the world’s premier
universities.
Student from the Jerusalem School.
Beyond the favor within the community and stories of
academic success of individual students is the reality that
Christ is being made known to hundreds of students each
and every day. In a context where hatred and despair are
on the rise, JSB emphasizes peace. In a land where hope is
rapidly dissipating, JSB introduces students to the source of
true hope. This hope is not contained within the walls and
classrooms of the school. It spills over into the families of the
students and the community in which JSB is located. Through
the influence of JSB, its teachers and staff, those who were far
away and alienated from Christ - both students and parents -
have been drawn near and reconciled to Him.
JSB is not just a light in a dark place. It is not just
a Gospel outpost in a religious wasteland. It is an
incubator of change offering the possibility of a
different future, a different story. A story which
began just down the road and continues on through
dedicated followers of Jesus the Christ. Investment
in JSB is not just an investment in the lives of
hundreds of students, but in the very future and
hope of the land where Jesus was born.
8

WORLD MISSIONS | JEFF MARSHALL
JERUSALEM SCHOOL BETHLEHEM
2025 PENNDEL WORLD MISSIONS PROJECT
717.795.5921 | jeff@penndel.org
Architectural drawing of the completed school.
OMAR AND PAT BEILER have
served as Regional Directors
for the forty-four countries of
EURASIA for 15 years. They
stepped aside from that role
in October 2023 and have
taken on a new responsibility.
Omar now serves as Director of
Development for the Jerusalem School Bethlehem.
Many children in Bethlehem have limited access to education.
The Jerusalem School Bethlehem is meeting this need, but
they are out of space and need a new building to sustain for
future generations.
DESCRIPTION: The Jerusalem School Bethlehem offers
a Christian education to students in grades K-12. Classes are
currently held in multiple locations, with a significant portion
in rented space, which they have far outgrown. The new
school will be constructed on land they own, increasing the
student population from 800 to 1200. The new facility will
house five stories of classrooms all in one location.
Despite the war in the Middle East,
we are continuing with our JSB Project.
BENEFITS: Because of the school’s English-teaching
curriculum and accreditation status, families in the Bethlehem
area seek acceptance into this school. After graduation,
students are eligible to continue their education at any
university. The majority of the student population is of
Palestinian background, creating a vast opportunity to share
the love of Jesus with families who are in desperate need of
Him. With their own space, the school will be able to accept
more students who will have the opportunity to hear the
gospel. They will save over $10,000 in monthly rent, finally
have access to reliable water, improve relationships with the
government and educate next-generation leaders with a
Christian-based education.
PARTNER WITH US FOR THE FUTURE OF
JERUSALEM SCHOOL BETHLEHEM!
Help us increase their capacity and advance the
gospel through the lives of students.
To pay with Check: PDMN
Jerusalem School Bethlehem
4651 Westport Drive
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
To pay Online: Please scan this QR code ≥
Penndel.org/worldmissionsproject
PennDel Ministry Network | CONNEXION 9

717.795.5921 | jason@penndel.org
CHURCH RECALIBRATION | JASON TOURVILLE
PLANTING SEEDS OF HOPE
The appearance of Jesus on the scene as a newborn baby came with the message from the
angel, “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.” (Luke 2:10b). Upon this
announcement, hope was planted in the shepherd’s hearts, causing them to immediately want to
see this baby in the manger and tell others. This message about the Christ Child was a seed of HOPE.
However, Israel’s circumstances were anything but hopeful.
Disappointment occurs when expectations are not met, and this
is where discouragement can set in. Jesus made his entrance
in the most discouraging of times. The rule and cruelty of the
Roman government is well documented. However, Jesus is still the
message of hope, no matter the discouraging circumstances.
Managing disappointment and discouragement is an important
emotional activity for every person and every leader. Most
discouragement can be placed in the following two
categories:
Episodic Discouragement: These are specific, one-time
occurrences. For example: when people leave the church,
when your church doesn’t celebrate you on Pastor Appreciation
Sunday, or a failed knee surgery.
Existential Discouragement: This type of discouragement
may be impacted by specific episodes, but they tie into a larger
theme or are the general state of things. For example: your
marriage is not what you had imagined, your children have
wandered from an accessible path, or the ministry hasn’t been as
fulfilling or rewarding as anticipated.
We all encounter disappointment and discouragement. How
we manage these experiences determines their impact on us.
The stakes are high, for when we are discouraged, we lack the
courage to act in faith.
Four strategies to help you dig out
of your discouragement:
1. Connect with Pain Partners: These are a few
trusted individuals with whom you can depend, who
keep confidence and are simply in your corner.
2. Benefit from Physical Outlets: Your body is
an important tool God has provided to help release
stress. Unless you already have a physically active
job, most in ministry would greatly benefit from
physical activity and exercise.
3. Cast Your Cares: 1 Peter 5:7 reads, “Cast all
your anxiety on him because He cares for you.” He
is not afraid or offended by your frustrations. He
wants you to cast them upon him, so He can provide
Himself as your source of strength.
4. Direct your Thoughts: Not everything that
comes to our mind (our thoughts) is accurate or
helpful. We must think about our thinking. This is
why Philippians 4:8 provides some direction for
our thoughts and concludes, “…think about such
things.”
The antidote to discouragement is HOPE and according to Romans 5:5, “hope does not disappoint.”
This season, I pray you rediscover the seed of hope we have in Jesus.
www.RecalibrateChurch.org
10

MINISTER CARE | PAUL LYNN
LIVING THE CALL
I
don’t recall ever hearing a sermon focusing on the way the Apostle Paul referred to himself as a “prisoner
of Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 3:1, 4:1; Colossians 4:10; 2 Timothy 1:8; Philemon 1:1, 1:23). While Paul was
indeed a prisoner of Roman authority, he consistently chose to identify himself as a prisoner of Jesus Christ.
This reflects a deep theological truth comparable to how he described himself as a slave, doulos in the Greek,
in his Letter to the Romans. Given the estimated one million or more slaves in the Italian peninsula at that time,
these designations were not mere humble boasts; they were profound expressions of his identity and calling.
717.795.5921 | paul@penndel.org
We are all, in a sense, prisoners of Jesus Christ. Our human agency is often limited when it comes to the
context of our calling. Paul serves as a powerful biblical example of this dynamic. Within the constraints of our
callings, we can discover an incredible spiritual freedom that feels ultimately limitless. This freedom is unique
to Christians—it is found in picking up our cross, following Jesus and continually experiencing His resurrection
power in our lives. There are times we must double-down in prayer on this important spiritual truth.
I, too, am a prisoner of Jesus Christ. On that note, I want to share that this will be my last
Connexions message as the Minister Care Lead. I have accepted a new position as a
civilian to serve the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.
Each calling is distinct, and for me, the call to serve Jesus has taken on this unique shape as a
Chaplain. Remarkably, I never imagined that I would return to this place, which was my very
first duty assignment as a young Airman in 1987. The etymology of the word auspicious from
the Latin comes to mind. It means divine foreshadowing. I just didn’t see this coming. The
Christian philosopher Kierkegaard wrote, “Life can only be understood backwards; but it
must be lived forwards.” From Solomon, he says, “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines
his steps.” As I endeavor to live out my call, my prayer for you as PennDel Ministers is that you live the call in
the fullness of His grace.
Minister Care Pastors
Our Minister Care Pastors reach out to you as ministers across their
designated sections on a regular basis. Feel free to reach out to
them if you have a need to. They also appreciate knowing you have
received their message.
Tony DeRosa SC/SCW scscwministercare@penndel.org
John Holt SWM/SWS swmswsministercare@penndel.org
Mike Poppa EC/NE ecneministercare@penndel.org
Roland Coon DEL/GPA delgpaministercare@penndel.org
Dennis Sproull SCE/NC scencministercare@penndel.org
Joe Hollen NW/NCW nwncwministercare@penndel.org
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
PennDel Ministry Network | CONNEXION 11

TOM REES | 717.795.5921 | tom@penndel.org
LESSONS FROM
351 SAVED 26 WATER BAPTIZED
BATHE IT IN PRAYER
God is on the move in Philadelphia, and we had the chance to take a
front row seat to that during the week of Seek and Save. From starting
the week with our Prayer Meeting at Philadelphia Tabernacle, we saw
the Church in Philly united in such a powerful way. Linking arms with
our brothers and sisters in Christ encouraged people that we are not
doing this alone, rather we are reaching our city together as the Body
of Christ.
We want to thank those from all over the district who prayed and gave
in preparation of this week to see the Gospel transform the city of
Philadelphia. We believe there has been an incredible impact because
of Seek and Save and that this is just the beginning of something even
greater in the city of Philadelphia!
Josh LeBlanc
Philadelphia Tabernacle
WORK IT TOGETHER
To see churches come together across Philadelphia and the Penndel District for one
mission — to make the name of Jesus known — was a beautiful thing. Fifty-nine churches
and ministries came together to minister from four hubs across Philly. Thousands of
souls were touched by the love of God, and many made decisions to follow Jesus. I want
to personally thank everyone who prayed, served, and gave to this project.
Because of you, we were able to complete over $50,000 worth of construction work
with volunteers on what will be our Wilkerson Discipleship Home for Men, which is set
to launch at the end of 2024. The eternal impact made will have a ripple effect until the
return of Christ. Thank You!
David Dominguez
Philadelphia Dream Center
LOVE YOUR COMMUNITY
This was, by far, the largest outreach our Kensington
campus has ever offered our community. We planted our
campus a year ago and this week gave us room to spread
our wings and bring awareness to the community of who
we are and where we are. Seek and Save allowed us to
see people experience the Love of Jesus through His bride.
We preached the gospel, baptized people, and provided
excellent meals for our neighbors.
Our community experienced a mobile Zipline for the first
time ever, a petting zoo, a reptile exhibit, kid’s activities,
bounce houses, live worship, a Christian DJ, and free
groceries.
Our goal wasn’t to grow the church, it was to love the
community. This week wasn’t a church growth strategy,
but it was still effective as our Sunday services have been
packed!
Mark Novales, Sr.
Philadelphia City Reach
12

SEEK AND SAVE
3,228 BLOCK PARTY GUESTS
DEPLOY SEARCH TEAMS
During Philly Seek and Save, seven kids were found! Teams were trained
and deployed. They visited seventy-six hotels to help find missing and
exploited children. Printed and digital posters were given out. Hotel staff
are still deployed. Ongoing updates are posted at facebook.com/CAN.
abolition.
Your church can get involved now. You can reach out at 201.446.9119.
Looking ahead: At the 2025 PennDel Summit at GT Church in Reading,
Human Trafficking 101 with deployment tools, will be presented.
Mandy Bristol-Leverett
CAN: Church and Community Abolition Network
SERVE YOUR CITY
Our team was able to serve the city through:
• Facilitating five teachers’ appreciation
breakfasts.
• Sponsoring four school assemblies with over
five-hundred students and a youth rally.
• Having two buy-downs at a laundromat and
Dunkin Donuts to reach many with tangible
generosity of God’s love.
• Providing a luncheon for a Police Station on a
day they were mourning the loss of one of their
own.
• Restoring the outdoor basketball court at the
high school.
• Hosting a Convoy of Hope grocery packing with
eighty volunteers who packed 5,497 grocery
bags that were distributed at the four Saturday
block parties.
Leah Leach
City Life Church
SPEAK PROPHETICALLY
One man came into Dunkin (the LAST person of the morning
that we were going to pay for as part of the buydown). Brad
talked to him and said, “God is interrupting you to tell you He
has different plans for you and He loves you,” and the guy broke
down in tears. He said that the night before he was panhandling
for money for drugs and some woman stopped her car and told
him, “God is interrupting you to tell you He loves you and has
a purpose for your life.” He thought it was unusual, but found
himself doing the same thing Friday morning when someone told
him to go to Dunkin if he wanted breakfast because people were
paying for it. When he arrived and Brad shared the same words
to him, he couldn’t hold back the emotion of God’s love for him.
Brad Leach
City Life Church
PennDel Ministry Network | CONNEXION 13

717.649.6788 | joe@penndel.org
The other day, I saw my son lying on the grass outside.
I asked him what he was doing, and he said, “I’m
watching that large bird fly in the sky. I think it’s an
eagle.” I joined him and watched the eagle gliding high above
us. It flew quickly, rarely flapping its wings. Eagles are created
differently than other birds. They can fly at heights up to
10,000 ft. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, an
eagle’s wingspan is double their size, which enables them to
soar as they fly. The Oxford Language Dictionary provides this
definition of the verb soar; “maintain height in the air without
flapping wings or using engine power.” Their physical build
allows eagles to utilize winds and storms to carry them great
distances. In fact, eagles are known to be the only birds that fly
into storms.
YOUTH DIRECTOR | JOE CALI
SOAR
Isaiah 40:29-31 states, “ He gives strength to the
weary and increases the power of the weak. Even
youths grow tired and weary, and young men
stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength. They will soar on wings
like eagles; they will run and not grow weary;
they will walk and not be faint.”
God wants us to soar. When you accept Christ and are
baptized in the Holy Spirit, you gain access to supernatural
help. God has the strength, the power and the ability to help
us accomplish eternally significant, kingdom building work
and to soar above the rest. There are more great missional
results to achieve in each of our contexts.
SOARING SPOTLIGHT
Lighthouse Youth (LHYTH)
Pastor Landon Ritchey
LHYTH is experiencing some of their most incredible missional
results. This Summer, LHYTH has come up higher. We have
seen God demonstrate His power in a greater way in our youth
services, events and Fifth Quarter outreaches.
LHYTH Tent Revival
Students had a hunger like we’ve never seen before. Students
responded to salvation every night, were slain in the Spirit, and were
plugged into LHYTH. One student said, “The moment you prayed and
laid hands on me, I felt a heaviness go, and I haven’t had anxiety or
depression since.”
This momentum continued in the fall, as students would fall out
under the power of God as we continued to draw close to God in our
Wednesday night services.
Fifth Quarter Outreach
Our Fifth Quarter outreaches to Garden Spot Middle and High School
took a significant step forward this year. Friday, September 6, we
saw 150 students respond publicly to make Jesus the Lord of their
lives. Two weeks later, Abby Moyer, a senior who leads our Garden
Spot Youth Alive Club, preached and 101 students responded to the
altar call. Abby and I prayed over every student, and we have seen
students come to our Youth services from these events.
God has called you into the ministry to SOAR; He will empower
you! The harvest is plentiful; people are hungry for God and want to
receive a touch from Him!”
He wants to make you soar.
14

YOUTH ALIVE | MIKE KUBIS
WALK IN CHRIST, NOT IN FEAR
To be honest, unhealthy fear is my daily battle. Too
many times I have felt like Gideon, who put his
identity in his fears, rather than walking in what
God called him as, “A Mighty Warrior.” Unhealthy fear
has caused me to sin, just as it did to the apostle Peter.
When Peter walked in fear, he denied the Lord Jesus
Christ, lied about events that happened during Jesus’
arrest, and his pride got the best of him. Fear causes
anxious thoughts, which causes irrational actions. Praise
be to God, the story doesn’t end like this!
In John 21, Jesus and Peter reconnect. The Lord provides
a miracle, and Peter, out of excitement, jumps into
the water and swims to the shore to meet Jesus. They
have a conversation, and in that conversation our Lord
restores Peter, and reminds him that He is “the rock”
who will build Christ’s church. As we prepare to close
out 2024, I want to encourage you to not walk in a spirit
of fear, but to walk with the Spirit of Christ. If fear has
consumed you over the last few months, or even this
entire year, I encourage you to draw near to the Lord
(Philippians 4:4-7), confess your fears (Psalm 34:4-7),
and take that next courageous step. (2nd Timothy 1:7)
Don’t stay in the boat of fears, but swim to the shore to
encounter Jesus.
SEEK & SAVE
Back in September, I had the opportunity to help serve at the Seek &
Save outreach in Philadelphia. During this week, I served alongside
churches and schools that hosted school assemblies and a youth
rally. There were eight assemblies at five different schools and one
youth rally hosted at City Life Church. We were able to encourage
over 1,000 students from K-12 during the assemblies and about seven
students decided to
commit their lives
to Jesus. Praise the
Lord for all that was
able to accomplish
to reach the lost in
Philadelphia!
mike@penndelyouthalive.com
PennDel Ministry Network | CONNEXION 15

charisse@penndelwomen.org
PENNDEL WOMEN | CHARISSE JENKINS
O LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM
Chubby fingers, big giggles, little people. Each year, the Jenkins household sets aside a day to ‘deck the halls’ and
prepare for Christmas. Festive music is played, snacks are laid out for hungry workers and smiles sparkle like the
ornaments that are hung. As important as the tree topper is, there is one Christmas decoration that supersedes the star
in our house. The Fisher Price Little People manger scene! That plastic Bethlehem toy holds the care and delight of the hearts
in my home. One particular holiday season, we could not find the manger set! My toddlers, who had since stretched out
into their full-grown bodies, were on a serious hunt to find the box that held their treasure. The space under the tree seemed
so vacant in contrast to the inn the night Jesus was born. Every person took time to search on their own with no return. Such
relief was felt when the missing box turned up. It had been under our noses the whole time. Much like Jesus. He had been the
awaited King. But once He came, some didn’t believe or even realize that He was right in front of them!
Merry Christmas!
“Bethlehem…out of you shall come forth to me the one”
Micah 5:2.
The One. The One who came to save us. “For a Child will be born to us,
a Son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders;
And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal
Father, Prince of Peace.” (Is. 9:6)
From the time of the prophecies until Christ’s appearance, there were 400
years of silence! Can you imagine the generations who pined away for the
One who would come? And when He arrived, He was to be “a shoot to
spring from the stem of Jesse, and a branch from his roots will bear fruit.”
(Is. 11:1).
Jesus came as a little person. Small but mighty. Tiny, helpless, but holy.
I always find it interesting that Jesus favors a child-like faith. I believe it’s
because He knows the smaller the person, the bigger the heart. He knows
that small can stand tall in Him.
Despite their ages, my four kids are vigilant that the Little People set is
properly packed away to be loved again the next year! They still arrange all
the characters and make sure the batteries are loaded in to illuminate the
star and play the songs. And even when all of the presents are neatly tucked
under the tree, they pull the manger forward to ensure it is the true focal
point.
INSPIRE
c o n fere n c e
INSPIRE
c o n fere n c e
MARCH 6-8, 2025
Kalahari Resort and Convention Center
Register at penndelwomen.org/conference!
Holiday savings are available now!
16

MENS MINISTRY | TOM REES
A 360MAN IS COMMITTED
TO LIVING OUT A FULL-CIRCLE
(360 DEGREE) FAITH
717.795.5921 | tom@penndel.org
360DISCIPLE
MANTOUR:
UNBREAKABLE
A 360Man commits to ongoing
discipleship and Jamie Holden’s
Mantour is a great place to grow!
360GO BOLIVIA MEN’S MISSION TRIP
For the first time, PennDel Men’s Ministries will be offering this church construction mission trip to
Bolivia. The team will be led by our 360Go leader, Duane Goodling (duane@thinkmissions.org).
MISSION TRIP INFORMATION
When: July 19-26, 2025 (Trip dates are subject to change
depending on availability of flights)
Where: Samaipata, Bolivia
What: Join other PennDel men to build a church
Who: If you are willing, you are welcome, no experience needed!
There may be some opportunities to preach as well.
Cost per person: Approx. $2300-2500 plus tax as needed
(cost of visa is included)
Target Dates (we can work with you so ask):
$200 deposit & application by March 1, 2025
$1000 by April 1, 2025
$600 by May 1, 2025
$500 by July 1, 2025
Send deposit & funds to:
Think Missions
405 Brownsdale Rd.
Renfrew, PA 16053
Note: Bolivia trip
MISSION TRIP VISION
Bolivia is the poorest country
in South America. With its
lack of resources, it is hard
for pastors to grow their
congregations beyond
someone’s living room. In
Bolivian culture, having a
church building is important
as well. Consequently, it makes it hard to reach
the larger community without one. The churches
we build are strategic plants that have the
potential to win 1000’s for Christ. We build them
from the ground up and serve in any way we can
to help set-up the new church for success. We
also minister to the children in the surrounding
area and schools through VBS programs. Our
team will also have the opportunity to preach the
Gospel and minister to those in desperate need
of love, healing, encouragement and hope only
found in Jesus Christ.
PennDel Ministry Network | CONNEXION 17

bgrenier@penndelsom.org
DEAN/MINISTRY DIRECTOR OF PDSOM | BENJAMIN GRENIER
COURSE HIGHLIGHT:
INTRODUCTION TO HERMENEUTICS
At the PennDel School of Ministry, one of our key
offerings is the Hermeneutics course, designed
to provide students with the foundational tools to
properly interpret and understand the Bible. This course is
essential for anyone who feels called to ministry or simply
wants to deepen their knowledge of Scripture.
Utilizing the renowned textbook, Living By The Book, by
Howard G. and William D. Hendricks, students are taken
through a step-by-step process of studying the Bible in a
way that brings clarity and insight. The principles taught in
this course are invaluable for future pastors, lay leaders and
teachers who are responsible for faithfully conveying God's
word.
Additionally, students will benefit from further
recommended resources, including:
Expositional Preaching by David Helm: This book
provides a practical guide to preaching sermons that stay
rooted in Scripture. Helm emphasizes the importance of
understanding the text in its original context and applying it
faithfully to the lives of the congregation. It is a must-read for
anyone aspiring to communicate God’s Word effectively.
How to Read the Bible for All It's Worth by Gordon
Fee and Douglas Stuart: This resource helps students
understand how to interpret various genres of the Bible,
BOB LECOCQ
from narrative to poetry and from prophecy to epistles.
Fee and Stuart break down complex interpretive principles
into approachable steps, making it a valuable tool for both
beginners and seasoned students of Scripture.
Understanding Scripture is not just an academic exercise—it
is vital for spiritual growth, sound teaching and effective
leadership in the church. This class, along with these
additional resources, equips students with the tools to
embark on a lifelong journey of discovering God's truth and
applying it to their lives and ministries.
We encourage pastors to invest in their church’s future by
sending leaders and teachers to take this essential course.
Offered in March 2025, this is the perfect opportunity to
equip your leadership team to rightly divide the Word of
truth. We are offering this class at all seven of our campuses.
Check out penndelsom.org to find a campus near you!
For more information, please go to
www.penndelsom.org
On October 17, 2024, Robert (Bob) Lecocq went home to be with his Heavenly Father,
leaving behind a legacy of love, service and dedication to both God and the PennDel
Ministry Network.
In 2016, Bob embarked on one of many significant chapters of his ministry by founding
the PennDel School of Ministry (PDSOM). His vision was clear: to provide accessible,
high-quality, affordable ministry training to those called to serve. Under his leadership,
the school became a cornerstone for the spiritual growth and development of nearly 500
aspiring pastors and ministry leaders throughout the Network.
His leadership of PDSOM was marked by his genuine care for each student, his joy in
watching them grow in their calling and his desire to see them succeed in both life and
ministry. In his final official act before retiring in June 2023, he had the distinct honor of
watching 30 students walk the graduation line, having fully completed their training. It was
a fitting end to a career defined by empowering others to fulfill their God-given destinies.
18

CHILDREN AND DISCIPLESHIP | JEREMIAH GRUBER
SETTING UP YOUR KIDS MINISTRY FOR SUCCESS
Chances are that you have used a step ladder. Most
step ladders have four feet that keep the ladder
steady and safe to climb. There are times that
you may begin to ascend the ladder and find that one of
those feet is not firmly on the ground, may be bent, or
possibly damaged. While you could climb this unsteady
ladder a meager step or two, you wouldn’t be able to
safely ascend unless all four legs and feet of the ladder are
balanced and secure. Similarly, I would like to share four
steps that will flourish your kids ministry and successfully
help you disciple the next generation.
S = Safety / Screening
T = Team
E = Equipping Curriculum
P = Parental Involvement
There is good news! We have resources that
help with all of these “Steps 4 Success!” If
you haven’t discovered the website KidMinRoadmap.
com from the Assemblies of God, I highly encourage it!
KidMin Roadmap is a free, yearly strategy where kids
grow strong in faith, parents feel equipped to spiritually
shepherd, and leaders pave a clear path for spiritual
growth. Practical tools and simple strategies help bring
this vision to life: editable scripted lessons, themed
graphics, teaching videos, activity pages, midweek
clubs, parent resources and leader/volunteer
training tools.
IgniteParenting.com: FREE: high-quality resources
that empower parents and caregivers to be active
participants in their children’s spiritual journey. The goal
is to supply families with biblical wisdom to build deep,
enduring faith in kids from birth through adulthood.
I am also available to visit your church and share about the
importance of reaching the next generation, meet with
kidmin leaders, help you develop a plan of action and be
a resource in other ways. Please feel free to email me at
jeremiah@penndel.org with any questions.
STEP 1: SAFETY & SCREENING
Be PROACTIVE rather than REACTIVE with your
approach. Here are some recommendations:
1. Background checks required by your state
2. Reference calls
3. Personal interview with volunteers
4. No adult ever alone with a child
5. No one enters bathroom with a child
6. Minimum of two leaders in each room
7. Lock the KidMin doors once service begins
8. Safety team
9. Proper classroom ratios
10. Security name tags (for kids/leaders)
STEP 2: TEAMWORK
Kids ministry cannot be successfully managed and operated
by one individual. It takes a team working together
cooperatively. Almost every church has a few people who
recognize their important call to disciple the next generation.
However, one or two gifted workers in churches will never
be adequate leadership for a children’s ministry to thrive.
Therefore, who should be ‘running’ children’s
ministry if it needs more than just the gifted and
called children’s leaders?
STEP 3: EQUIPPING CURRICULUM
There are many wonderful curriculum's available. I
recommend that your curriculum include these crucial
elements:
1. Bible engagement
2. Holy Spirit driven
3. Vision aligned
4. Heart filler over time filler
5. Team friendly
6. Parent connections
STEP 4: PARENT INVOLVEMENT
While the church plays a pivotal role in discipling children,
parents have the God-given responsibility to be involved
in their child’s spiritual development. How is your church
collaborating and empowering parents to disciple their
children?
717.795.5921 | jeremiah@penndel.org
PennDel Ministry Network | CONNEXION 19

724.622.4696 | gmdirector@penndel.org | penndelgirlsministries.org
GIRLS MINISTRIES | SHARON POOLE
LISTENING TO GOD’S VOICE
“Go out and stand before me on the mountain,” the Lord told him. And as Elijah stood there,
the Lord passed by, and a mighty windstorm hit the mountain. It was such a terrible blast that the rocks were
torn loose, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the
earthquake. And after the earthquake there was a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire there
was the sound of a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood
at the entrance of the cave. I Kings 19:11-13 NLT
Throughout God’s Word we are shown the various ways
that God spoke to individuals and to His People. There
were times that it was in a loud and dramatic way. But more
often, it was through a still, small voice speaking conviction,
direction and encouragement.
I believe wholeheartedly that God wants to and does
speak to each of us daily. Sometimes it is through nature or
someone else’s words or actions. Sometimes it is just His
voice speaking directly into our spirit. Most often it is as we
are reading His Word.
The important thing is that we open our eyes, our hearts
and our ears to hear and see Him every day. It is never a
question of “if He will speak.” It is a question of “will
I be listening.” Daily He speaks because He loves us
and wants to commune with us.
A few months ago, He spoke very directly to me in a
whisper. His voice was kind, loving and direct. I knew
that it was time to begin to step away from Director of
Girls Ministries. I have submitted my resignation that will
be effective June 30, 2025. It has been an incredible
experience with which God has blessed me. The
bittersweet thoughts and emotions are there. But, the
excitement to see who will be next to be blessed with
leading these girls beyond words.
As I finish with our Retreats next summer,
I know that I am not quitting. God is leading
me into a new chapter. I am not sure what
that will be, but He does.
ROYAL RANGERS | STEVE STEFFEL
302.379.1580 | rrdirector@penndel.org | pdrangers.org
Facebook: PennDel District Royal Rangers
20
In the book “Good to Great,” the continued
execution of many small efforts to do things
better, moved things from good to great. It
was likened to giving the flywheel a push in the
right direction time after time. In Psalm 112, we see
a person who is committed to following the Lord – they will
never be shaken, their heart is steadfast, good will come to
them and their righteousness endures forever. Sometimes
we feel that our efforts, perhaps small, aren’t important,
but each act of obedience to the Lord is important. Royal
Rangers work to disciple boys into Godly men — true
servant leaders making Godly decisions, whether small
or large. I encourage you to build your boy’s character
through Royal Rangers.
Here are some of the activities this past year:
• Jan 20: Empower Conference – Some of the PennDel
leaders with the World Class District Award and First
Place Advancement Award.
• March 2: BB Gun Competition at Christian Life Assembly,
Camp Hill, PA
• April 14: Electrical work on shower house and sign goes
up on front wall.
• April 19-21: Frontiersmen Camping Fellowship Spring
trace. Ten New Frontiersmen, two advanced to Buckskin
and four advanced to Wilderness level.
• May 3-4: World Class Outpost training at Christian Life
Assembly, Camp Hill, PA. Sixty-four leaders trained
• May 6-8: PennDel Ministry Network Summit – “NGAG”
(Engage) Royal Ranger display, sparks good interest in
starting Royal Rangers at churches.

BONGIORNO CONFERENCE CENTER | CARL REDDING
EXPECTATIONS OF A MIRACLE
I’ll never forget our Christmas of 1998, a doctor walked into a small consultation room, telling us that our baby girl would
only have a 10% chance of surviving birth. Adding to that, she may have severe mental and physical deformities. These
words shook us. We were initially devastated, shocked, perplexed and angry. I remember the feeling of isolation that was
so real; for a moment, I thought that we had been forgotten by Him. After coming to my senses and processing through
the initial shock, we began to pray and develop a plan. We planned not only to have this baby, but that she would be made
whole. We invited everyone we knew into our “private” world to pray alongside us. As we prepared over the next several
weeks, we were reminded time and time again that we were, in fact, not alone. Hundreds, possibly thousands, stood with
us, praying by “Faith” that our child would be born healed. During this waiting period, we saw so many “small” miracles,
and we could tangibly see that God was working on our behalf. I am so thankful for family and friends who were lifting us up
in prayer during that time when we had no strength to do so on our own.
717.243.7381 | credding@bccretreats.com
December 15, 1998, Abigail “Faith” came into our world. The doctor
followed the plan that they had set prior to birth. After four days, she had
surgery to repair the birth defect, and at eleven days… just eleven days,
she was released from Hershey Medical Center. She went home with us
to Wilkes-Barre, PA, and was perfect. She slept six hours the first night we
had her home. We literally got up in the night to check on her. God had
completed our Miracle. What we couldn’t see, He saw clearly. What was
out of our control, He held in His hands with complete control. God knew
what He was doing the entire time.
As we pass through life, we come to crossroads that we
will often look back on and see how God had His hand
in every aspect of the situation. These moments, when
we pause and notice, build our faith in the One that
holds our hand through it all. It is so difficult in our
finite minds to be able to foresee where He might lead
and what He might do in our lives. We have trouble
seeing the miracle. We often cannot comprehend why
our loving Father would care for us so deeply that He
would work on our behalf.
In Micah 5:2, when “The One” was spoken of and prophesied, He had us in mind. Jesus, the perfect miracle was the plan all
along. Without Him, we can do nothing, and we are nothing. I love John 10:10, “I came so that they would have life and
have it abundantly.” During this season, my prayer for you is that you would take several moments to pause and thank “The
One” who gave you breath for the life that He has offered you. His only begotten son, Jesus, is the only reason why we can
celebrate. So, what’s your expectation during this season? The miracle-working Father wants to give you your Miracle this
Christmas.
• June 28-30: Adventure Weekend – 273 attendance, reported:
43 salvations, 56 filled with the Spirit, 78 rededicated
• July 27: Concrete sidewalk and parking area is poured for the
shower house.
• July 31-Aug 3: Junior Leadership Development Academy –
38 graduates and 11 went through Shooting Action Camp
• Aug 17: Shower House Prep to get Rough Electric ready for
Pathfinder team
• Oct 13-22: Pathfinder Missions team got a lot done on the
shower house and front entrance.
Royal Rangers is a premium discipleship ministry for boys.
There are plenty of activities at section and district level for
the boys, opportunities to grow spiritually as well as good
leader training – contact us for help in getting Royal Rangers
started at your church.
PennDel Ministry Network | CONNEXION 21

AROUND THE NETWORK
70TH ANNIVERSARY
Calvary Church, Dover, DE
Lead Pastor: Ryan & Rachel Coon & Staff
Pastor Emeritus: Roland & Angela Coon
85TH ANNIVERSARY
Grace AG, Apollo, PA
Lead Pastor: Jason & Bridgette Jodon & Church Board
GENERAL COUNCIL AFFILIATION
Agape AG • St. Marys, PA
Lead Pastor: Jim & Nicole Line & Family
Presbyter: James Goodman
PASTORAL INSTALLATION
Lead Pastor:Caleb & Katie Schreiber
Former Pastor: Cliff & Patricia Hamilton
East Erie AG, Erie PA
On October 5, 2024, we held our first PennDel
Ministry Network Church Financial Workshop.
Nearly 90 individuals came out to the Bongiorno
Conference Center to participate in a day long
workshop focusing on Church Finances. If you
missed this workshop, please visit our new
webpage at penndel.org under Resources.
Watch for more workshops like this in 2025!
CELEBRATING LEROY WILEY, WHO TURNED 100 YEARS OLD ON OCTOBER 8
Leroy has served our Network with great
distinction. He was lead pastor in the following
PennDel Churches: Boyertown, Lewes DE, Corry,
Punxsutawney, Tyrone, Hamlin and Greenwood/
Fayetteville. During his semi-retired years, he
served on staff at Chambersburg.
22
He served as a Sectional Presbyter and on other
Sectional and Network committees. In his 90's, as
an assisted living resident at the SpiriTrust Lutheran
campus at Chambersburg, he helped with the
visitation ministry to their nursing home patients.

I am so grateful for every
friend, professor, and mentor
here, and I know the Lord is
raising up students on this campus
to live lives fully devoted to Him
and His mission.
Danielle Horne 24’
Pittsburgh, PA
Discover Your Purpose
For His Glory
OVER 50 DEGREES OF STUDY:
Main Campus Undergraduate • Online Graduate
Online Undergraduate • Dual Enrollment
Scholarships &
discounts available
for PennDel ministers
and families!

4651 Westport Drive
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Find us online: penndel.org
Join us on Social Media:
PennDel Ministry Network
PennDelMinistryNetwork
#penndelag
Great Rates.
Great Reason.
Maximize your investment while
strengthening the local church.
Pastor Tyson Coughlin
Vizion Church
Charlotte, NC
Investing for a Higher Purpose
Matthew 16:18
INVESTMENT INTEREST RATES
TERM APY APR
* 5 Year JUMBO 4.58% 4.50%
5 Year Note 4.32% 4.25%
4 Year Note 4.06% 4.00%
2 1/2 Year Note 4.01% 3.95%
1 Year Note 4.94% 4.85%
6 Month Note 5.09% 5.00%
Demand Note 2.140% 2.125%
www.hisfund.com • 866-219-0820 (toll free) • 717-796-9784
Scan for more information
and a prospectus
APY: Annual Percentage Yield APR: Annual Percentage Rate
*$100,000 minimum investment for JUMBO Note. $500 minimum investment for all other Notes.
Funds may not be transferred from an existing account.
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.