The Professional Life of the Christian Leader

The link below is a teaching I delivered for the Mid America Yearly Meeting Leadership Institute recently. You will find two other teaching links for the Institute in earlier blogs as well. The three topics I was asked to address over a three month period were:
- The Spiritual Life of the Leader
- The Family Life of the Leader
- The Professional Life of the Leader.

FYI: During the presentation we lost the internet connection for 20 minutes due to a storm so you will need to fast forward at that point to where the presentation resumes.

If the link does not open when you click on it simply copy and paste it into your browser.
https://efc-midamerica.webex.com/efc-midamerica/ldr.php?AT=pb&SP=MC&rID=105985427&rKey=53aba6167f3a5399

Thanks for stopping by!
--
Adrian

The Family Life of the Perfect Leader

The Family Life of the Perfect Leader


Here is a lecture I delivered on the Family Life of a Christian Leader for the Mid America Friends Leadership Institute on 3.5.12. If the link doesn't work simply cut and paste it into your web browser.


https://efc-midamerica.webex.com/efc-midamerica/ldr.php?AT=pb&SP=MC&rID=104840932&rKey=650603e4fd7f0cb6


I look forward to your feedback!

Smart People

"Intellectual character is a by-product of the pursuit of truth" (Journal of Christian School Educators, Vol. 15, pg. 24) ... And ... "TRUTH'S name is Jesus Christ. Smart people pursue Him." (Halvey, Barclay College, office 204)

Can I get a witness?

The Spiritual Life of a Leader

Here is a lecture I delivered on the Spiritual Life of a Christian Leader for the Mid America Friends Leadership Institute on 2.6.12. If the link doesn't work simply cut and paste it into your web browser.

https://efc-midamerica.webex.com/efc-midamerica/ldr.php?AT=pb&SP=MC&rID=103558867&rKey=7fd1b7b6f3fc54a8

I look forward to your feedback!


--
Thanks for stopping by!

Adrian

MATL-PS Suggested Bibliography

There a Suggested Bibliography for the MATL-PS?

Avery, William & Gaede, Beth. If This is the Way the World Works: Science, Congregations, and Leadership, Alban, 2007.

Banks, Robert & Ledbetter, Bernice. Reviewing Leadership: A Christian Evaluation of Current Approaches to Engaging
Culture, Baker Academics, 2004.

Bass, Bernard & Riggio, Ronald. Transformational Leadership (second edition), LEA Publ., 2006

Beebe, Gayle. The Shaping of an Effective Leader: Eight Formative Principles of Leadership, IVP, 2011.

Bender, Sharon. Producing the Capstone Project, Kendell/Hunt, 2003

Blanchard, Ken & Hodges, Phil. Lead Like Jesus: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Model of All Time, Thomas Nelson,
2005.

Borek, John. The Good Book on Leadership: Case Studies from the Bible, Broadman & Holman, 2005

Boyd, Gregory. Repenting of Religion: Turning from Judgment to the Love of God, Baker, 2004

Burns, James Macgregor. Leadership, Harper & Row, 1978.

Burns, James Macgregor. Transforming Leadership, Grove Press, 2003.

Chapman, Gary and White, Paul. The Five Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace: Empowering Organizations by
Encouraging People, Northfield, 2010.

Cohen, Norman. Moses and the Journey of Leadership: Timeless Lessons of Effective Leadership from the Bible and
Today’s Leaders, Jewish Lights Publ. 2008.

Frost, Michael & Hirsch, Alan. The Shaping of Things to Come: Innovation and Mission for the 21st Century, Hendrickson,
2003

Frost, Michael & Hirsch, Alan. Re Jesus: A Wild Messiah for a Missional Church, Hendrickson, 2009

Greathouse, William. Love Made Perfect: Foundations for the Holy Life, Beacon Hill, 1997.

Johnson, Spencer. Who Moved My Cheese?, Putnam, 1998.

Kouzes, James & Posner, Barry. The Leadership Challenge, Wiley, 2007

Lewis, Phillip. Transformational Leadership: A New Model for Total Church Involvement, Broadman & Holman, 1996

Mannoia, Kevin & Thorsen, Don. The Holiness Manifesto, William Eerdmans, 2008.
McKnight, Scot. The King Jesus Gospel: The Original Good News Revisited, Zondervan, 2011.

Morris, Gregory. In Pursuit of Leadership: Principles and Practices from the Life of Moses, Xulon, 2006

Onnen, Melanie. The Relationship of Clergy Leadership Characteristics to Growing or Declining Churches, UMI Dissertation Information Service, 1987,

Patten. M. L. Understanding Research Methods. Pyrczak Publishing, 2009
Quinn, Robert. Building the Bridge as you Walk on it: A Guide for Leading Change, John Wiley & Sons, 2004

Spencer, Carole Dean. Holiness: The Soul of Quakerism, WIPF & Stock, 2007
Sweet, Leonard. Out of the Question, Into the Mystery: Getting Lost in the Godlike Relationship , Waterbrook, 2004.

Sweet, Leonard. So Beautiful: Devine Design for Life and the Church, David C. Cook, 2009.

Trent, John and Smalley, Gary. The Blessing: Giving the Gift of Unconditional Love and Acceptance, Thomas Nelson, 2011

Wilkes, Gene. Jesus on Leadership: Discovering the Secret of Servant Leadership from the Life of Christ, Tyndale, 1998

Wright, N. T. Simply Jesus: A New Vision of Who He Was, What He Did, and Why it Matters, Harper & Row, 2011.

MATL-PS Faculty List

Who are the Potential Faculty Members?

Royce Frazier, PhD (confirmed)
Gayle Beebe, PhD
Terry Wise, PhD, DMin, JD (confirmed)
Jim LaShana, PhD (confirmed)
Matt Chesnes, DMin (confirmed)
Tom Klaus, PhD/ABD (confirmed)
Dave Kingrey, DMin (confirmed)
John Williams, PhD
Keith White, PhD (confirmed)
Paul White, PhD (pending)
Carole Dean Spencer,PhD (pending)
Tony Wheeler, PhD (confirmed)
Paul Shelton PhD (pending)
John Trent PhD (confirmed)
Adrian Halverstadt, PhD (confirmed)

MATL-PS Courses

What are the MATL-PS Class Schedule and Course Descriptions?

(Induction)
MATL-PS 501: Orientation
Course Description: PS501 is a one week class designed to introduce students to classmates, course instructors, the mechanics of the online portal and discussion forum, and the academic rigors of the program.

Semester One: (Introduction)
MATL-PS 511: Introduction to Transformational Leadership Theory
Course Description: In PS-511 students will be introduced to the field of transformational leadership theory. A concentration will be given to the history of transformational leadership theory noting the key personalities who contributed to the theory, the main characteristics of the theory, and the common application of the theory used in both religious and secular vocations and organizations since the 1970’s. Students will also explore the need for the revitalization of leadership and where leadership is headed in the future for effective Christian life service and leadership in the twenty-first century. (3 credit hours).

MATL-PS 512: Theological Perspectives on Transformational Leadership
Course Description: In PS-512 students are introduced to the missional, relational and Incarnational (MRI) model of leadership. Emphasis will be given to discovering the biblical foundation and historical roots of MRI. Focus will be given to exploring research data and literature noting how MRI is shaping Christian leadership today. (3 credit hours)

MATL-PS 513: Lab - Research Methods
Course Description: PS-513 is an introduction to the practical research methods commonly used in a graduate Capstone project or thesis. The course culminates with students proposing research ideas for their Capstone project and conducting focused research carried over from PS-511 and PS-512. (3 credit hours)

Semester Two: (Investigation)
MATL-PS 521: An Examination of Transformational Leadership Theory
Course Description: PS521 is designed to be a detailed investigation of the main concepts and components of the transformational leadership theory. In addition, students will begin investigating and critiquing how transformational leadership theory has impacted their profession and noting where additional contribution is needed. (3 credit hours)

MATL-PS522: Forging a Theological Leadership Model for the 21st Century
Course Description: In PS522 students will investigate the transformational leadership models of two key biblical personalities: Jesus Christ and Moses. Emphasis will be given to identifying the connecting points that exist between the missional, relational and incarnational model with transformational leadership theory. In additional, students will identify the biblical connecting points with the five main characteristics of transformational leadership theory as modeled through the leadership of Jesus Christ and Moses. (3 credit hours)

MATL-PS 523: Lab - Research Proposal
Course Description: In PS523 students will formally identify their Capstone project, submit a list of key words and phrases to be use in research, and conduct an investigation of research data and literature related to their Capstone proposal and content presented in PS-521 and PS-522. (3 credit hours)
Semester Three: (Identification)
MATL-PS 531: Comparing Contemporary Leadership Models with Transformational Leadership Theory
Course Description: PS531 identifies contemporary leadership models and critiques them with transformational leadership theory. A concentration will be given to understanding the importance of the leader’s personal awareness and leadership IQ. Students will identify the transformational principles necessary for personal growth and cultural transformation. Topics like followership, impact in leadership, fostering a shared culture of a common vision, mission, and values among others in the organization will be identified. In addition, students will examine and assess their leadership qualities by taking the “Leading From Your Strengths Assessment” questionnaire. (3 credit hours)

MATL-PS532: Theological Leadership in Strategy and Practice
Course Description: PS532 focuses on identifying and responding to the challenges facing contemporary Christian leaders today. Students will identify and critique the leadership styles of Biblical personalities from both the Old and New Testament including the 12 people Jesus Christ chose for His leadership team. Attention will be given to identifying the five common characteristics, the common practices, and ten commandments of transformational leadership with the life and leadership model of Jesus Christ. The course culminates with the students outlining their theology of leadership and assessing their ability to motivate others by taking the Motivating By Appreciation (MBA) Inventory. (3 credit hours)

MATL-PS 533: Lab- Research Outline
Course Description: PS533 is designed to give students structure to their Capstone project through the continuation of focused research germane to their Capstone project and class material presented in PS-531 and PS-532. The data students identify will culminate in the creation of an introductory paragraph, detailed outline, and bibliography to be used in their Capstone project. (3 credit hours)

Semester Four: (Infusion)
MATL-PS 541: Strategic Leadership – The Professional Application of Transformational Leadership Theory.
Course Description: In PS541 students examine behavioral models and the operating strategies needed to infuse transformational leadership theory into followers and organizations. Focus will be given to the strategy of infusing the specific elements of transformational leadership theory necessary for cultural transformation. In addition, students will explore how to infuse excellence, collaboration, conscious awareness, consequences, need assessment, follower empowerment through situational leadership, and shared decision making into followers and organizations.
(3 credit hours)

MATL-PS 542: Leading in Community - Applying Theological Principles of Transformation to Self, Community, and Culture
Course Description: In PS542 students will define and examine the relational strategy Jesus Christ used to infuse and transform the culture of His day. Students will give focused attention to the Royal Law of Christ and His mandate to infuse culture. In addition students will discover the five major transformational calls of God located in scripture designed to address the world’s most critical problems. (3 credit hours)

MATL-PS 543: Lab - Capstone Draft
Course Description: InPS543 students will conduct focused research germane to PS-541 and PS-542 and their Capstone project. The course will culminate with students presenting a final draft and give an oral defense of their Capstone project demonstrating the acquisition of scholarship, critical thinking, creativity and written communication skills. (3 credit hours)

How is Transformational Leadership THeory used today?

What does a sampling of research reveal about the use and effectiveness of transformational leadership theory?

Contemporary Leadership models:
> The most researched theory on leadership since 1970 (The Leadership Quarterly, 1999)

> Proven to value people at every level of the organization and create a culture of collegiality among management and employees (The Leadership Quarterly, Vol. 6, Issue 2, summer 1995)

> Increased job satisfaction, performance and leader-member and member–member exchange (The Academy of Management Journal, Vol. 29, Number 2, April 2006)

> Transformational leadership principles favorably impacts emotional intelligence and interpersonal influence among leaders and followers demonstrating positive outcomes individually and organizationally (Journal of Organizational Behavior, Issue 7, November, 2005)

> Data shows the four “I”s of Transformational Leadership Theory provides an effective social “science” construct for effective leadership (R. A. Barker, “The Nature of Leadership,” The Journal of Human Relations, 2001)

Public Education:
> Transformational leadership is the most suitable and effective leadership model used by principals and school administrators for organizational commitment, organizational citizenship behavior, teacher satisfaction, and student academic achievement (Cambridge Journal of Education, Vol. 33, Issue, 2003)

> Data reveals the effectiveness of Transformational Leadership Theory in the United Kingdom and calls for a wider dimension of its use (M. Bottery, School Leadership and Management, 2001).

> Transformational Leadership Theory was proven to be an effective means of creating culture in public schools (A. Harrison,” Leading from the chalk-face: An overview of school leadership,” Leadership Journal, 2005)


College:
> A study based on 256 exemplary college presidents who turned their organizations around reveals a link to transformational leadership principles (American Association for American Junior Colleges, April, 1989)

Military:
> Expands the capacity to lead (Military Psychology, Vol. 16, Issue 4, 2004)

> Achieved the most positive impact on direct and indirect follower’s development and performance in military units (The Academy of Management Journal, 2002)

> The data concluded that police officers using transformational leadership principles have particular relational strengths that serve to elevate levels of commitment, work satisfaction, and motivation among Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) detachments. The data also points out that transformational leaders turn constraints into opportunities in the pursuit of their shared vision (Murphy, Steven A. & Drodge, Edward N. "The four I's of police leadership: A case study heuristic," International Journal of Police Science & Management, Spring 2004, Vol. 6 Issue 1, p1-15, 15p).

Business & Finance:
> a survey that investigated the contemporary practice of organizational development among the USA’s fastest growing firms (as identified by Fortune magazine) reveals the principles of transformational leadership theory changed “people’s lives, the milieu of the company, and the bottom-line” (Journal of Leadership and Organization, 1996)

> Transformational leadership training resulted in significant effects on bank employee’s ethical practice, organizational commitment and overall job performance (Journal of Applied Psychology, Vol. 81(6), December, 1996.

> Transformational leadership theory fosters a moral community in companies and organizations (L. M. Sama, Journal of Business Ethics, 2008)

> Research demonstrates that transformational leadership theory is most important during the birth, growth and revitalization ofan organization (H. Erkutlu, Journal of Management Development, 2008)

> Research results demonstrated that project managers who used adopted a transformational leadership style had a positive impact on actual project performance, that emotional intelligence of employees and actual project performance (W. Leban, Journal of Leadership and Organization Development, 2004)

Nursing:
> Evidence supports a positive relationship between the use of transformational leadership in nursing and increased patient outcomes (Journal of Nursing Management, 2007)

> Lower turnover rate, greater work satisfaction, and greater teachable components were observed in nursing departments that taught and used transformational principles (The Journal of Nursing Administration, Vol. 22, 1992)

> Conclusion of data reveals that Transformational Leadership Theory positively impacts the situational leadership framework of nurses and mid wives in the development and support of individuals and teams to meet the complex healthcare needs of patients within the clinical setting. Implications for nurse management: stronger situational leadership and support for employees and patients. (Soloman. Annette, ”Director of nursing and midwifery leadership: informed through the lens of critical social science.” Journal of Nursing Management, May2010, Vol. 18 Issue 4).

> Studies conducted by the National Healthcare System of Scotland revealed that using transformational leadership principles among medical personnel has improved the healthcare system of Scotland. Conclusion: reforming how healthcare is delivered depends on effective leadership at all levels. Developing the leaders of today and tomorrow will be crucial in delivering the ambitious goals that have been set for the health service (NHS Scotland Journal, May, 2004).

> Article links transformational leadership theory to nurses’ extra role performance and self-efficacy, (Marisa; Lorente, Laura; Chambel, Maria J.; Martínez, Isabel M. Journal of Advanced Nursing, Oct., 2011)

International & Missions:
> A major study reveals supportive evidence for the universality of transformational leadership in several continents. Data was gathered in business, education,military, government and the independent sector supports the effectiveness of transformational leadership when used cross culturally.

> This article reports on three studies that used a combination of methods to measure the wide-scale use and effectiveness of transformational leadership theory in India (Singh, Niti; Krishnan, Venkat R. "Transformational Leadership in India." International Journal of Cross Cultural Management, Aug2007, Vol. 7 Issue 2)

> This website describes the need and priority for leadership development by the Scotland government, outlines proposals and the necessary framework required to implement the theory nationwide http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2004/05/19338/36768#4


Clergy & Church:
> Data reveals that applying the principles of transformational leadership theory lead to successful pastoral leadership (Journal of Ministry, Marketing and Management, Vol. 4, Issue 2, 1999)

> Research data links leaders who successfully motivate followers in religious and non-profit organizations with transformational leadership theory (L.W. Fry, The Leadership Quarterly, 2003)

> Data reveals that in churches where parents were taught transformational leadership children demonstrated greater respect for the authority of both parents and church over those who were not exposed to the theory (B.M. Bass, European Journal of Work and Organization, 1999)

> Research links clergy using transformational leadership theory to higher church attendance and spiritual growth among congregants in the church membership (B. M. Bass, Organizational Dynamics, 1990)

> Research demonstrates that transformational leadership theory is effective than other theories studied in starting, growing revitalizing an organization (H. Erkutlu, Journal of Management Development, 2008)

> Studies show that United Methodist pastors using transformational leadership theory had greater parishioner satisfaction and performance reviews, longer tenure, and measurable growth in attendance over pastors who used transactional principles in leadership (M. Onnen, “The Relationship of Clergy Leadership Characteristics to
Growing or Declining Churches,” UMI Dissertation Information Service, 1989)

Women in leadership:
> Data reveals that transformational leadership theory is an effective means of training and promoting women in leadership (Journal of Social Psychology, March, 2008)

Theology:
> Data reveals multiple connecting points between transformational leadership theory and scripture (M. Ayers - Journal of Biblical Perspectives in Leadership, 2006)

Parenting and Family Issues:
> Data reveals the positive effects parents have on children's health and wellness when Transformational Leadership Theory is applied in parenting. (Morton, Katie L.; Barling, Julian; Rhodes, Ryan E.; Mâsse, Louise C.; Zumbo,Bruno D.; Beauchamp, Mark R. “The Application of Transformational Leadership Theory to Parenting: Questionnaire Development and Implications for Adolescent Self- Regulatory Efficacy and Life Satisfaction,” Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology, Oct. 2011, Vol. 33 Issue 5,).

> Research conducted by the Faculty of Education at the University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Israel links good parenting to transformational leadership theory (The Leadership Quarterly, Vol. 14, Issue 1, February 2003)

> Data reveals that children whose parents were trained in transformational leadership demonstrated greater respectfor the authority over those who were not exposed to the theory (B. M. Bass, European Journal of Work and Organizational, 1999)

Marriage:
> The author links knowing and applying transformational leadership theory with marital success in homes where both spouses are fulltime professionals. (Dean. Donna, “Wither Thou Goest: The Trailing Spouse or Commuter Marriage Dilemma” Women’s Experiences in Leadership in K-16 Science Education Communities,2009)

> Study links TLT with employee’s ability to balance marriage and family life with work. (Halpern, Diane, and Murphy, Susan, “From work-family balance to work-family interaction: changing the metaphor,” Psychology Press, 2005)

Transformational Leadership Theory

What is Transformational Leadership Theory?

In the 1970’s James McGregor Burns hypothesized that leadership is the key to organizational renewal and global transformation and developed an effective leadership model for the twenty-first century called transformational leadership theory. The transformational model motivates followers beyond expectations and exhibits characteristics of charisma, inspiration, intellectual stimulation, individual consideration for followers, and motivation (Bass 1985). In developing his transformational leadership model Burns (1978) referenced Jesus Christ and “His miraculous transforming leadership”(Burns, 1978), Moses, Martin Luther and other key leaders who helped shape history.

Through an extensive examination of literature Burns discovered over 130 different definitions for leadership. He summarized his data into two basic categories and coined the terms “transformational” and “transactional” leadership (Bass, 1985). The transactional model engages in a social exchange where the leader and followers honor a contract. The contract is reinforced with reward or punishment and it often employs a reciprocal process of identifying and mobilizing persons with certain motives and values or through the use of various economic, political, status resources. Burns found that the chief cultural monitors in transactional organizations are: fairness, responsibility and the honoring of commitments (Burns, 1978, pg. 425).

Bass’ research shows that organizations which are hierarchical in structure and transactional in nature are less effective in reaching and sustaining their goal, accomplishing or expanding their mission, or transforming societies and culture than transformational ones. His research reveals that transformational leaders are more effective in shaping, altering and elevating the motives, values, goals and overall outcomes of organizations by influencing the culture of an organization (Bass, 1985, p. 426). The premise holds that whatever personal or separate interests followers may have, they can be united and pooled with the interests and needs of others, both leaders and followers, and best addressed through the mutual pursuit of the higher goals of liberty, justice and equality within the organization. Transformational leaders teach and model these characteristics to followers creating cultural monitors that transcend personal need and interest to that of mission and the greater good of all (Bass, 1985, p. 426)


Transformational leaders recognize and seek to address the existing needs and personal interest of followers but tend to go further by arousing and satisfying the higher needs of the organization (liberty, justice and equality) in order to engage the whole person for the good of all. The transformational leader raises consciousness of higher needs through intellectual stimulation, articulation, and role modeling (Bass, 1985, p. 14). They focus on raising the issues of consciousness and consequence requiring vision, self confidence, articulation, and inner strength to argue successfully for what he sees as right or good (Bass, 1985, p. 17).

Transformational leaders are known for motivating others beyond their current level of expectation or confidence. According to Burns this is accomplished three ways. First, leaders motivate followers by raising the level of consciousness within the organization from self interest to the pooled needs of others and then focusing attention on accomplishing the greater good for all. Second, transformational leaders motivate followers by focusing attention on the positive consequences of transcending self-interest for the common good of all. Third, motivation occurs by leaders teaching and modeling the altering of personal needs or wants (See Maslow’s and/or Alderfer’s list) to include the greater good of all (Bass, 1985, p. 20). As a result, a transformational leader can invent, introduce, and advance the culture of an organization. He can change the behavior of the organization, changes what the organization can talk about, and can change both the self-identify of followers and the organization (Bass, 1985, p. 24).

A new Online Masters Degree!

The Barclay College School of Graduate Studies presents a pure online Master of Arts in Transformational Leadership with a concentration in Professional Studies (MATL-PS) the fall of 2012. The MATL-PS degree is a 36 credit hour online graduate degree that is theoretical, theological, and research based in format designed to develop effective twenty-first century professional leaders for the glory of God.

Teaching students how to lead effectively in the context of twenty-first century organizations is the main focus of the new program. The MATL-PS is a master’s degree that equips Christian working professionals to become transforming leaders in their organizations, companies and churches. So whether you work in the for-profit or non-profit sector, the MATL-PS can equip you to grow in leadership, management and business skills. The program will help students be successful by fostering:
> A biblical worldview
> An ethical decision-making model
> A servant leadership mentality
> Intentional character development
> A biblical perspective on current leadership models
> Researching contemporary leadership practice and theory
> Understanding best practice in business and management
> Identify organizational design and structure
> Team building
> Vision casting
> Goal setting

The Barclay College full online MATL-PS degree is …
- A balanced concentration of theory, theology, and research designed to create professional leaders of transformation throughout the world for the glory of God.
- Christ centered and biblically based
- Fully accredited
- Affordable: $375 per credit hour. Tuition under $14,000
- Approved for financial aid
- Trans-vocational in perspective designed for anyone with a bachelor’s degree who desires to be a transformational leader in the twenty-first century.
- Convenient: Asynchronous online classes
- Concentrated: four modules -16 months total
- Pure online (no weekly residency required)
- Personal -instructors are available for one-on-one consultation
* Read about the benefits of online academics at: http://education.yahoo.net/articles/online_education_myths.htm?kid=1K9TS

For more information on the MATL-PS (or to fill out an application) simply click on http://www.barclaycollege.edu/graduate/matl-academics or contact Adrian.Halverstadt@barclaycollege.edu.

My Thoughts on Graduate Studies

This fall Barclay College enters a new hallway in the house of academia with the inaugural session of the Master of Arts in Transformational Leadership (MATL). With the MATL Barclay College will have the opportunity for greater impact in fulfilling her mission, while simultaneously assuming greater academic responsibility as defined by traditional graduate standards. How exciting!

For nearly 100 years Barclay College has sought to balance the Quaker “git’r dun” practical approach to ministry with the rigor of scholarship. Her success in balancing the two is demonstrated through the global contribution and influence of her alumni. It is undisputedly held in Quakerdom that Barclay College has contributed greatly to the evangelical missional agenda and doctrinal integrity of the Friends Church while resourcing her with quality leadership. Our plan is not to change!

My use of the nomenclature “git’r dun Quaker approach” at the undergraduate level is a reference to producing students who are practitioner-scholars in life and service. If students graduated from Barclay College are filled with the Holy Spirit, committed to emulating the life of Jesus Christ for the world to experience daily, have a conviction to practice a strong work ethic in ministry, and have learned to think critically in the application of the skill and knowledge they acquired at BC, then we have fulfilled our purpose.

However, the commencement of Barclay College School of Graduate Studies requires our focus to change ever so slightly. The rigor of graduate education demands the focus be more “scholar-practitioner” in nature rather than “practitioner-scholar.” The emphasis of undergraduate education is to understand the basics of the field, acquire the necessary tools needed to function within the field of study/vocation, and establish a passion and pattern needed for the discipline of lifelong learning. At the graduate level however, students not only continue acquiring more knowledge and skill within their area of study or vocation but are expected to critique the field using the scientific principles of inquiry and research.

The standard for a Master of Art’s degree is the production of a capstone thesis or research project that is legitimate within the tradition of academia. This means that as students continue their quest for knowledge they must also identify a problem or need for further contribution (based upon research) which can be addressed in their capstone project for the glory of God and the good of Christ’s mission on earth. How exciting! I look forward to how this new adventure unfolds in the days ahead. Someone needs to be the leader among contemporary Christian graduate schools … so why not Barclay College, Eh? Let’s “git’r dun” for the glory of God!

Thanks for stopping by!
--
Adrian

Am I in the wrong profession?

Am I in the wrong profession? That was my question for today as I read another chapter in The College Administrator’s Survival Guide. Gunsalus states, the most powerful way to increase your influence is to listen more effectively, intensely and genuinely to others. Then he describes how listening is a skill that most people are neither taught nor practice. Especially in the academic setting where there is often an atmosphere of arrogance, competition and insecurity among peers. Many will listen ahead (jumping to conclusions) while others are talking … leaping to conclusions and thinking they know more about what others are trying to say than they actually do. In the academic setting many demonstrate self-protective behaviors to keep from being exposed for who they really are before their students, peers and administrators.

Gunsalus concludes this section on active listening by encouraging administrators to talk less and ask more questions for two reasons. First, asking questions demonstrates your interest in the other person’s thoughts, feelings and opinions. Second, administrators should ask questions in order to uncover the underlying motivation of people. Gunsalus states that everyone has underlying motives because ultimately positions are what people want, and interests are why they want them.

Wow, if I had to deal with this behavior in my duties at Barclay College then I would quickly conclude that I am in the wrong line of work! Praise God the influence of Jesus Christ permeates the faculty and staff of this campus and is manifest in our constituents. I am convinced that Barclay is different from other institutions not just because she is a Christian College but because of the doctrine she holds dear to her mission. I have enough experience with other Christian institutions to know that motives and behaviors are frequently not in the best interest of the college. So what’s so different at Barclay College? Holiness … Our Board and administration is committed to the teaching and practice of Christ-centered holiness.

We believe the atonement of Jesus Christ makes provision for the complete transformation of the heart for those who will consecrate their life completely to the Savior and subject themselves to the infilling and control of the Holy Spirit. Full consecration to Christ purges the heart of selfishness and replaces it with the righteousness, peace and joy of Christ. It imparts to man a nature that desires full devotion to God and service and love for others.

The selfish, self-protective behavior described by Gunsalus is consequential based upon the sin nature in man… so is the purging of the heart through the infilling of the Holy Spirit. Through heart purity motives become pure, people are free to look to the interests of others, have relationship without living in the fear of rejection, and they can live in a community of acceptance and peace. It seems to me that if one wants to be a positive influence for others (academic or not) they should begin with heart transformation. Only then can a person manifest the nature of Jesus Christ. This is the practice and testimony of Barclay College to which she must remain ever true.

Based upon my studies I see that I may not have much of a future in academia outside of my employment at Barclay College. I realize I would be a round peg in a square hole (so to speak), at most institutions today. So for now, I had better have Lisa help me improve my listening skills and pray to God that I can keep this job for awhile!

Thanks for stopping by!
----
Adrian

Am I Reading the Wrong Books?

Today's reading in The College Administrator's Survival Guide caused me to giggle and ask "am I reading the right material for my professional development?" Gunsalus writes,

Your role as a academic head requires that you set the tone, including establishing consistent expectations for successful and appropriate professional conduct, and that you provide sincere compliments for conducts that meets those expectations. The catch is that you must be comfortable being the authority figure in an anti-authoritarian environment. This will take a special touch. The key is to examine your own behavior ahead of time and consider the persona you'll need for your professional role. Generally the only way you can influence others is to change your own behavior.

Now for a recommendation that may surprise you. You can learn a great deal about how to be an effective leader in academia by reading books on parenting and dog training. They teach you simply ways to modify your behavior, build effective communication skills, improve listening, and suggest practical ways to ensure that your words and actions send a consistent - rather than mixed - message.

How funny. Who would have thunk it ... to be effective in college administration one should read dog training books? Hm ... I wonder if our two accreditation commissions would be impressed with my professional library the next time they visit if I line a shelf or two with volumes of pet training and parenting books?

At this point I am not ready to invest the money or time required to read "pet training" books to improve my service to Barclay College and School of Graduate Studies but I do get the point. The only person I can change is self ... and by assessing and improving the impact I have on my colleagues will ultimately benefit the Institution.

Heavenly Father, my desire is to glorify You through my life,be conformed into the image of Jesus Christ and to participate with the work You are doing in the world today. I give You full access to my life ... change me according to Your will and purpose. Help me to be a blessing to those whom I have the privilege to administrate and serve at Barclay College. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Thanks for stopping by!
---

Adrian

Professional Development

I am reading three books this summer for my professional development. They are:
The Academic Deanship by Bright & Richards, Jossey-Bass. 2001;
The College Administrator’s Survival Guide by Gunsalus, Harvard Press, 2006;
American Association of University Professors: Policy Documents and Reports, Ninth Edition (Redbook).

I have discovered a great deal about college administration from all three books. Deanship has introduced me to the general duties and obligations of decanal administration across a wide spectrum of institutions. Survival Guide helped me put on my radar screen some of the typical landmines found in academia and offered some practical tips on navigating around them. Reading the AAUP Redbook has presented quite a challenge in comparison to the other two texts. Typically while reading Redbook, the text is central on my desk and I have a thesaurus in one hand and a cup of Joe in the other. However, no matter how daunting the task may seem at times I do feel obligated to finish the work before mid-August (it did cost $3 to ship the $.05 used book from Amazon to Haviland) plus I do occasionally stumble upon a gem.

Today’s treasure for me was the foundation documents defining academic freedom (pages 35-36). The basis of the documents is the concept that both privileges and responsibilities are conferred upon professors by their membership in the community of scholars. The critical freedom to pursue scholarship is accompanied by certain responsibilities to (1) be accurate, (2) exercise appropriate restraint, and (3) show respect for the opinion of others.

I suppose there are some in academia who choose to not to honor this critical freedom and the responsibilities attached to it, but I am pleased to say that the faculty at Barclay College and its School of Graduate Studies does. As Christ followers and scholars, our faculty members are committed to good practice. Over this past year I have witnessed each one maintain a consistent level of excellence for the glory of God, both on and off campus. They sacrifice for the mission of the institution, work to improve their department, and seek ways to contribute to the community of Haviland as a whole.

Our BC faculty continuously supports one another by maintaining good practices, like creating and maintaining sound professional boundaries and collegiality through affirming and participating in positive group qualities and activities. None of them seek special privileges or status … only the opportunity to emulate the life of Jesus Christ before others. They humbly consecrate their strengths for the proliferation of Christ’s kingdom and pursue His grace in their areas of weakness. I assume the faculty of BC act the way they do not because they have read the Redbook, but because they have committed their lives to the Good Book and the One of whom it was written.

Thanks for stopping by!

Adrian

Love Has a Name

When your life is a wreck, you've no purpose or aim - Love has a name.
When you've gambled it all and you've lost at life's game - Love has a name.
If your relationship has crumbled, all that remains is the blame - Love has a name.
When you've used and abused but you never reached fame - Love has a name.
When your health is destroyed, your body failing or lame - Love has a name.
If your children become creatures, more like animals you can't tame - Love has a name.
And your world seems destroyed, there's no hope only shame - Love has a name.
The "Name" that restores, that can heal and replace
All that you've lost, that can bring you the grace
To start a new life, to heal family and soul,
Is the "Name" of the One
Who refines us like gold!
Just whisper, "Jesus," in your depths of despair
And whatever He's doing, He's already there
To strengthen you, hold you, to fill you with power
To defeat all your foes so you no longer cower.
The matchless name of "Jesus - He's your Truth, He's your Light,
Your Redeemer, your Salvation, your very Breath, your Life!
Love has a name - His name is "Jesus"

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May the love of Jesus Christ purge and fill your heart this year. Thanks for stopping by!

Adrian

Chicken anyone?

Why did the chicken cross the road?


SARAH PALIN: The chicken crossed the road because gosh-darn it, he's a maverick!

BARACK OBAMA: The chicken crossed the road because it was time for change! The chicken wanted change!

JOHN MC CAIN: My friends, that chicken crossed the road because he recognized the need to engage in cooperation and dialogue with all the chickens on the other side of the road.

HILLARY CLINTON: When I was First Lady, I personally helped that little chicken to cross the road.
This experience makes me uniquely qualified to ensure right from Day One that every chicken in this country gets the chance it deserves to cross the road. But then, this really isn't about me.

GEORGE W. BUSH: We don't really care why the chicken crossed the road. We just want to know if the chicken is on our side of the road, or not. The chicken is either against us, or for us. There is no middle ground here.

DICK CHENEY: Where's my gun?

COLIN POWELL: Now to the left of the screen, you can clearly see the satellite image of the chicken crossing the road.

BILL CLINTON: I did not cross the road with that chicken. What is your definition of chicken?

AL GORE: I invented the chicken.

JOHN KERRY: Although I voted to let the chicken cross the road, I am now against it! It was the wrong road to cross, and I was misled about the chicken's intentions. I am not for it now, and will remain against it.

AL SHARPTON: Why are all the chickens white? We need some black chickens.

DR. PHIL: The problem we have here is that this chicken won't realize that he must first deal with the problem on this side of the road before it goes after the problem on the other side of the road. What we need to do is help him realize how stupid he's acting by not taking on his current problems before adding new problems.

OPRAH: Well, I understand that the chicken is having problems, which is why he wants to cross this road so bad. So instead of having the chicken learn from his mistakes and take falls,which is a part of life, I'm going to give this chicken a NEW CAR so that he can just drive across the road and not live his life like the rest of the chickens.

ANDERSON COOPER, CNN: We have reason to believe there is a chicken, but we have not yet been allowed to have access to the other side of the road.

NANCY GRACE: That chicken crossed the road because he's guilty! You can see it in his eyes and the way he walks.

PAT BUCHANAN: To steal the job of a decent, hardworking American.

MARTHA STEWART: No one called me to warn me which way that chicken was going. I had a standing order at the Farmer's Market to sell my eggs when the price dropped to a certain level. No little bird gave me any insider information.

DR SEUSS: Did the chicken cross the road? Did he cross it with a toad? Yes, the chicken crossed the road, but why it crossed I've not been told.

ERNEST HEMINGWAY: To die in the rain, alone.

GRANDPA: In my day we didn't ask why the chicken crossed the road. Somebody told us the chicken crossed the road, and that was good enough.

BARBARA WALTERS: Isn't that interesting? In a few moments, we will be listening to the chicken tell, for the first time, the heart warming story of how it experienced a serious case of molting, and went on to accomplish it's lifelong dream of crossing the road.

ARISTOTLE: It is the nature of chickens to cross the road.

JOHN LENNON: Imagine all the chickens in the world crossing roads together, in peace.

BILL GATES: I have just released eChicken2010, which will not only cross roads, but will lay eggs, file your important documents, and balance your checkbook. Internet Explorer is an integral part of eChicken2010. This new platform is much more stable and will never reboot.

ALBERT EINSTEIN: Did the chicken really cross the road, or did the road move beneath the chicken?

COLONEL SANDERS: Did I miss one?

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Thanks for stopping by!

Adrian

What is the gospel, and why is it the "good news"?

Third Culture | NewSong Church

Have You Ever Wondered What Life Is All About? The Story of the Trader

Have You Ever Wondered What Life Is All About? The Story of the Trader

Graduate classes begin at Barclay College

Barclay College announces her first Graduate level course called "The Blessing in Theology and Practice"

Barclay College has been approved to offer the graduate level course in The Blessing in Theology and Practice beginning this fall.

This course will be a core class in the anticipated Barclay College School for Graduate Studies. IIt will be offered online and alumnus of Barclay College can participate at a reduced tuition rate in an effort to further prepare them as ministry leaders.

The discount is available to ANY alumnus of Barclay College for this class.

You do not have to be a degree seeking students or an alum to take the class.

The class will include interaction with Dr. John Trent, Dr. Tony Wheeler,
and Dr. Adrian Halverstadt.

If you would like more information on fall enrollment in The Blessing in Theology and Practice. Contact Dr. Royce Frazier royce.frazier@barclaycollege.edu or Kevin Lee kevin.lee@barclaycollege.edu or call: 1-800-862-0226

Dates for the fall class is August 30 – October 8, 2010. Students are also required to complete a two week orientation class prior to starting any online class. There is no cost for the orientation class.

Orientation classes are conducted every six weeks throughout the fall and spring semesters.

Walk in the Light

Robert Barclay wrote, It is the grace of God at work in the life of a Christian that conforms them into the likeness of Christ. However, the grace of God can differ in its effect based upon the will of the individual. It is much like the action of the sun in that it can harden clay or melt wax. Its beams cause flowers to send forth beautiful color, pleasant aroma, and cause fruit to ripen ever of sweetly. But cast a lifeless carcass into its beams and the rays of sun will cause it to putrefy and have an evil odor.

When the sun of righteousness shines upon an individual soul it can be melted and influenced to send forth good fruit and a good savor. But if the individual wills to remain in sin the same sun will harden him as it does the clay and his wickedness will be more apparent and its putrefying effect will send forth an evil savor (Barclay's Apology, pg. 94).

Let us will to walk in the Light for Jesus Christ is the LIGHT!

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Thanks for stopping by!

What's in a name? (part 4)

Over the past several weeks I have re-read Robert Barclay's Apology and enjoyed comparing it to my own theological convictions. Also during this time, I have wondered on numerous ocasion if God is not calling Barclay College (BC) to revisit the theological and philosophical distinctions of early Quakers given the unique opportunities He seems to be presenting to her in global expansion and partnership. Unfortunately today, it seems that many who accentuate the teachings of early Quakers are liberal in focus and more social in orientation rather than biblical, incarnational and evangelistic like BC.

So again I ask, could God be philosophically re-visioning and re-orienting BC much like He did the Society of Friends in the 1600 and 1700's? Is it time for a revival in Biblical Hermeneutics to balance the Reformed Interpretation of scripture that seems to be prevalent in today's Post Modern Church? Is God calling Evangelical Friends to re-take their place in history once again as the Radical Reformers of the Church as they did so many centuries ago? Is God calling BC to be different than other Christian institutions of higher learning and seek to expand her influence globally through online and extension work for the sake of church planting and growth rather than just limiting her resources and effort to a specific geographical plot of real estate?

I assume more discussion and empirical study is needed to really answer most of the above questions but in my heart the answer is "yes." God is raising Barclay College up for such a time as this and a key component of this transformation will include her embracing the values and philosophies of old as they are lead by the Holy Spirit and affirmed in the scriptures. I think this will be true of Evangelical Friends as a whole as well. God is drawing us back to our roots for greater impact for His kingdom and glory.

One area God may be challenging Quakerdom to re-visit in both theology and practice is in the way scripture is viewed. It seems for many today scripture is idolized and actually becomes a hindrance to Christ likeness and discerning God's will and direction. Let me explain my statement.

In my understanding of scripture, an idol is anything man places between self and God in relationship. The Bible is not deity or is it the Mediator between God and man. Jesus Christ is the only Mediator and Means to the Father according to sacred literature. The revelation of Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit in the heart of the sanctified Christian is the only means to intimacy with God and divine Truth for daily living.

Barclay says, "At this point the Bible must be viewed secondary in importance. It is not deity and can only be rightly interpreted through the Holy Spirit by the sanctified individual. Thus the Bible cannot be considered the first principle source of truth and knowledge ... the first principle source must be Truth Himself.

The scriptures are to be esteemed as a looking glass that defines Truth as a Person-Jesus Christ, explains how to receive and walk in or with Truth, tells of the conditions and experiences of ancient Believers in their relational journey with Truth, and serves as a plumb line for maintaining balance in the Christian life." (Apology, p. 50, 57, 59-60) Barclay's conclusion was the "Bible is of little value to man in his carnal state. Those who feel entirely satisfied he says, have been filled with the Holy Spirit and have been inwardly taught by the Holy Spirit" (p. 47).

I concur with Robert Barclay on this point and desire Barclay College to teach students the biblical imperative to be filled with the Holy Spirit in conjunction with sound biblical hermeneutics. For unless there is a transfer of nature in the life of Christian one in not equipped to rightly interpret the scriptures or to be lead by the Spirit of God. Accurate biblical interpretation must begin with heart purity. Only through the act of entire sanctification can the carnal nature be purged and the ability to obtain and emulate Truth be found. I want students to understand this and embrace the principle of Barclay's third proposition.

I want the denomination I love and respect to esteem sacred literature for all the biblical reasons stated above. I wish for her to return to teaching and preaching the rich doctrine of heart purity that is consequential to full consecration and obedience to Jesus Christ. Let's return to a belief system that distinguished us from so many other denominations in the beginning. Let's return to a teaching which empowers people to emulate the life and teaching of Truth Himself. What say you?

Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian

What's in a Name? (part 3)

Over the past two weeks I have enjoyed re-reading Robert Barclay's Apology and comparing his convictions to my own. I have identified several connecting points between the Quaker patriarch and my vision for the College which bears his name. Some of them I intend to share in this venue and invite discussion from those who care to think in a similar vain.

I have also enjoyed engaging the staff at Willoughby Hills Friends on Barclay's theology. The staff here are great thinkers and enjoy lively discussion. I will miss the day to day interaction with them when my transition to Kansas occurs in July (Lord willing). I appreciate their sense of humor as well. While discussing the Apology with our Pastor of Singles Walt Scheiman, he made the comment that maybe someday Barclay's Apology will be interpreted as "we are sorry we hired Halverstadt!" Well it seemed funny at the time. (You have got to love him!)

So what other connecting points exist between Robert Barclay and my vision for the academic endeavors of the College that bears his name? I like the way the Apology approaches and defines Truth. It seems as if Barclay defines Truth as a Person and His name is Jesus Christ.

The first class I will teach on campus next fall is Philosophy. I've facilitated the class online in the past and look forward to the f2f (face to face) interaction with the student body. One of my favorite exercises in Philosophy is to the contrast the main thinkers of yesterday and today and their quest for truth with that of Jesus Christ and the Bible. Some of them did not get very far in their search. Take Frenchman Rene Descartes for example. Basically his lifetime journey is summed up in one phrase, "I think, therefore I am." I doubt that Rene died a satisfied man.

The principle interest in life is to find truth and the field of higher education is no different. It is driven by the search for truth but it is not limited to just educators, ivory towers and philosophers. The quest for truth affects all facets of society and life, even love. Scripture teaches that "Truth" and "Love" are One in the same. Jesus Christ is both Love and Truth.

Barclay claimed that "Truth can only be embraced with the heart and the head and that he despised the schoolmen who said that you can do so with either one or the other" (Apology, pg. 1). He also framed the importance of repentance for Friends by stating that "sincere repentance leads to the acknowledgement of the Truth" (Apology, pg. 3), and "to the height of all happiness in life" (pg. 4). I concur with Barclay's definition of Truth and that the Holy Spirit as the divine Agent who leads Christians into repentance, relationship with Truth and guides one's life and transformation in accordance with the scriptures.

It would be my desire for students at Barclay College to know that the acquisition of knowledge can only be derived in the framework of Truth and Love. That the genesis of Truth is Jesus Christ and He must be central in life. Also, I would desire students to understand and experience heart purity when seeking to define truth and acquiring knowledge. Heart purity occurs through a conscious act of the will, when the Christian fully surrenders to Christ and allows the love of the Savior to purge the heart with His love and righteousness. Only then can Truth enter into the innermost parts of an individual and bring enlightenment. Only then can true happiness be experienced.

Truth and Love go hand in hand. So what good is knowledge if it does not lead to loving and serving both God and man? The glory of God is man fully alive. The life Jesus wills for humanity in John 10:10 and elsewhere is the impartation of God's life in man. Only then can Christians fulfill the Great Commandment "to love God and man unconditionally" and successfully engage the Great Commission to "go into the world and make disciples baptizing them into this very life." I want our students to know, experience and practice this reality ... and that's the truth!

Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian

What's in a Name? (part 2)

As I discussed in my last post, the transition in name from Friends Bible College to Barclay College in 1990 was not philosophically rooted in the teachings of Quaker theologian Robert Barclay but was simply historical in nature. But what about the future direction of the College? Could God be calling the College back to a similar template forged by the founders of the Quaker movement?

Consider Robert Barclay as an example. It states in his Apology that one primary reason for writing this work was to be "uniquely personal in his thinking through of his own religious journey from the strict Calvinism of his youth to his Quaker convincement" (pg. xix). In fact, many scholars of Barclay have noted down through the centuries that "one of the most significant portions of the Apology has been his direct counter to Calvin's doctrine that was prevalent in the churches of his day" (Apology, pg. xxiii).

Could it be that through the rebirth of Barclay College over this past decade that God intends for her to offset the strong Reformed theology of the Post-Modern Church in order to balance the theological palette of His Kingdom? Other than at her conception in the early 1600's, I can think of no better time in the history of the Church for Evangelical Friends to be exclusive in her doctrinal orientation. Just as God used Quakers centuries ago to reform the Church after the Great Reformation so He may be calling Evangelical Friends to balance His Church theologically at this time.

The theological palette of God's Church is made up of a rainbow of color in which the Holiness movement of Friends is a part. My vision for Barclay College is to have our students exposed to the full theological color board of God's Church in their under graduate studies, critique His palette through our future Masters program, and contribute original expressions to it in our future Doctor of Arts degree that will support the rich theology of Friends.

In my opinion the theological expressions found in orthodox Christianity is not a matter of right or wrong, good or bad, but just simply to be viewed as different. Thus, there should be mutual respect for one another, appreciation for the differences and the contribution each one makes towards the glory of God and the good of Christ's kingdom.

However, when it comes to the future of Barclay College I think God may be leading her to be more intentional in theological focus. Maybe future hires will be men and women who are not only proven scholars but are people who are convinced that through the atonement of Jesus Christ and the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, that Christians can have the life of God imparted into their very being, enabling them to live without sin and to emulate the life and teachings of Jesus.

Perhaps in the future God may lead Barclay College to people of high academics who believe and can articulate to students that at the time of full consecration a second distinct work of grace occurs and a literal transfer of nature takes place in the Christian. Through this definitive act the recipient becomes entirely sanctified which purges the conscious, perfects the heart in love, and provides Christ followers with a perfect standing and relationship with their Creator.

I believe the future educational matrix of Barclay College should not only expose students to the rich doctrine of holiness but provide practical application as well. I would like to see every student receive multiple exposure to the fullness of the Holy Spirit through their Barclay College experience, knows what the life of holiness looks like in everyday life based upon our tradition, have an understanding of how it is structured vocationally, and be committed to it's globalization for the transformation of the world and the glory of God.

Like queen Esther from the Old Testament, possibly God has raised Barclay College up "for such a time as this." I may not agree with all of Robert Barclay's propositions as defined in his Apology but concerning the doctrine of holiness we are yoke-men. This aspect of his philosophy I would like to see Barclay College expand into her future academics. Who knows, as far as the future of Barclay College is concerned, there may be several connecting points with the historical name she bears.

Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian

What's In A Name?

In the days of old, names were often used to define an individual or a community. We find multiple examples of this in the scriptures. I have wondered the same about Barclay College. Does the fact that it bears the name of Robert Barclay mean something? Does it define who she is?

According to former president Dr. Glenn Leppert the transition in name from Friends Bible College to Barclay College in 1990 was not necessarily associated with the philosophy of Robert Barclay but was more historical in nature. Dr. Leppert states that “Robert Barclay as the first theologian, or at least the first to write on behalf of the Friends, was the one thing that led the college to use his name. We also wanted someone to combine academics with spirituality and many were impressed with his quote that no amount of education could replace the work of the Spirit” (Email, May 19, 2010).

I am encouraged by this revelation for several reasons. First, I like the idea that Barclay College seeks to align herself first and foremost with the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and not with the philosophies of men. No doubt Robert Barclay was a good man and has positively impacted Friends and the Kingdom of God in some extraordinary ways but sacred literature tells us to emulate Jesus. Thank you Barclay College for your sensitivity in this matter when selecting another name.

Second, I like the dual track Barclay College follows in fulfilling her mission statement. By dual track I am referring to her emphasis on the personal work of the Holy Spirit in the academic life of the student body. I believe it is the work of the Holy Spirit which transforms lives, calls forth workers into the Kingdom and blesses the labor of Christians in their preparation and practice. To pursue academics without the unction of the Holy Spirit would not distinguish Barclay College from many other institutions nor would it adequately prepare students for engaging the demands of ministry in the 21st century.

I am excited to be joining the staff at Barclay College in the next few months. I feel honored to be a part of the narrative God is writing in Haviland Kansas. It is a new day for Barclay. In less than ten years God has raised her like a phoenix from the ashes of despair and destruction to glorify Himself and to globally resource the Evangelical Friends Church and support His Kingdom agenda in the 21st century. As Robert Barclay penned in the late 1600's, "I am confident that with God's help there is nothing that I cannot do when I have devoted myself and all that is mine to Jesus Christ" (Barclay's Apology, pg. xix). Maybe there is something in the name after all... Hmmmm ....

Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian

Good Reading

Here's some Fodder for your Heart


Author and lecturer Leo Buscaglia once talked about a contest he was asked to judge. The purpose of the contest was to find the most caring child.

The Winner:

A four year old boy whose next door neighbor was an elderly gentleman who had recently lost his wife. - Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there. When his mother asked him what he said to the neighbor, the little boy said, "Nothing, I just helped him cry."


Honorable Mentions:

Teacher Debbie Moon's first graders were discussing a picture of a family. - One little boy in the picture had a different color hair than the other family members.- One child suggested that he was adopted and a little girl said, "I know all about adoptions because I was adopted." "What does it mean to be adopted?" asked another child. "It means," said the little girl, "that you grew in your mommy's heart instead of her tummy."

A four year old was at the pediatrician for a check up - As the doctor looked down in her ears, he asked, "Do you think I'll find Big Bird in here?" The little girl stayed silent. The doctor took a look down her throat, he asked, "Do you think I will find the Cookie Monster in here?" The little girl stayed silent. - Then, as the doctor was listening to her heart, he asked, "Do you think I will hear Barney in here?" The little girl broke here silence and said, "No ! You will find Jesus in my heart, but Barney is on my underwear."

As I was driving home from work one day, I stopped to watch a local Little League baseball game that was being played in a park near my home. - As I sat down behind the bench on the first-base line, I asked one of the boys what the score was. "We're behind 14 to nothing," he answered with a smile. "Really," I said. "I have to say, you don't look very discouraged." "Discouraged?" the boy asked with a puzzled look on his face. "Why should we be discouraged? We haven't been up to bat yet."

Whenever I am disappointed with my spot in life, I stop and think about little Jamie Scott. - Jamie was trying out for a part in the school play. His mother told me that he'd set his heart on being in it, though she feared he would not be chosen. - On the day the parts were awarded, I went with her to pick up Jamie after school. Jamie rushed up to her, eyes shining with pride and excitement. "Guess what Mom," he shouted, and then said those words that will remain a lesson to me: "I've been chosen to clap and cheer."


A lesson in "heart" is 10 year old Sarah, who was born with a muscle missing in her foot, and wears a brace all the time. - She came home one beautiful spring day and told me she had competed in "field day" - that's where they have lots of races and other competitive events. - Because of her leg support, my mind raced as I tried to think of encouragement for my Sarah, things I could say to her about not letting this get her down, but before I could get a word out, she said, "Daddy, I won two of the races!" I couldn't believe it! And then Sarah said, "I had an advantage." Ah, I knew it, I thought she must have been given a head start....some special privilege due to wearing a brace. - Sarah said, "But Daddy, I didn't get a head start; my advantage was that I had to work harder than the others!"


An eye witness account from New York City on a cold day in December: A little boy about 10 years old was standing in front of a shoe store window, barefooted and shivering from the cold. - A lady approached the boy and said, "My little fellow, why are you looking so earnestly in that window?" "I was asking God to give me a pair of shoes," was the boys reply. The lady took him by the hand and went into the store and asked the clerk to get half a dozen pairs of socks for the little boy. She then asked if he could give her a basin of warm water, some soap and a towel. He quickly brought them to her. She took the little fellow to the back part of the store and, removing her gloves, knelt down, washed his little feet, and dried them with the towel. - By this time the clerk had returned with the socks.....Placing a pair of socks upon his little feet, she purchased a pair of shoes for him..- She tied up the remaining pairs of socks, and gave them to the boy. - She patted him on the head and said, "No doubt, my little fellow, you feel more comfortable now?" As she turned to go, the astonished lad caught her by the hand, and looking up in her face, with tears in his eyes, answered the question wit h these words: "Are you God's Wife?"

"We all take different paths in life, but no matter where we go, we take a little of each other everywhere." -- Tim McGraw

Emily's post

A teacher from the International School in Brazil posted this in her blog. I thought I would share it with you. How encouraging it is to see God using the simple things to glorify Himself! Enjoy ...

By: Emily Taylor
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Acacias Community Church, Carpina, Brazil

Over the past several months, there have been some changes within the Acacias Community Church. The first big addition was a monthly prayer vigil. The meeting is held once a month and the participants spend the night praying at the church. The week after the first meeting, three people decided to follow Christ! We are experiencing how God moves, when His church prays.

Another big step for the church involved re-starting the English classes. Last semester Pat Hood began an English class for the women of the church & the school. It was a huge success, with the men asking for a class of their own. As we discussed Pat's class & saw the implementation of it, I began to see a fuller picture of the potential of English classes within the churches. Jeff, Lindsay, Ricardo, & I have been teaching English at the church in Lagao de Itaenga for some time now, but, as for me, I saw it much in the same way as I saw my English classes at the school. Through the new class, I began to see how powerful an English class within the church can be. Tele & Heather saw this as well. So, a few weeks after the prayer vigil started, they started English classes at the church. And what a turn out! The second week Tele had over 30 people in the beginners' class and Heather had around 10 in the more advanced class. A few of the Americans (Paul & Ruth) and an English-speaking Brazilian (Jaciel) are now helping with the load. There are four classes. People from the church, the school, and the community are coming an hour before church for English class. Many of them then stay for the church service. The Acacias Community church has always been very small but over the past several months it has grown dramatically. It has been fun to see. Please pray for continued growth within the Community Church of Acacias and that the Lord would use this little church in a powerful way.

Also, the pastor of Guadalajara Community Church (Carlos), some of the other American missionaries, and I are planning to start a new English program at the church in Guadalajara next week. Please pray that the church would be empowered to form new relationships through this program and that the Lord will be glorified.
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Thanks for stopping by!
Adrian

Religion in Brazil

I have been studying up on religion in Brazil. Today there seems to be quite a diversity. In the 18th century Brazil's official religion was Roman Catholic. This was due to the Portuguese people who were the first settlers and conquerors from Europe. Later as the Portuguese brought slaves from Africa to work on the plantations, the religion started to take on a different look. Even though the slaves were forbidden to practice their religions they managed to maintain their beliefs and doctrines. Since 1889, when the Brazilian Constitution was set forth, Brazil ceased to have an official religion and today the Constitution guarantees absolute freedom of religion.

According to the 2000 census, most of Brazil's population still claims to be Roman Catholic, however, there are many other religious groups in Brazil. Some of these are: Protestant, Pentecostal, Episcopal, Methodist, Lutheran, and Baptist. In addition there are over a million and a half Spiritualists or Kardescists (also known as spirit tappers or mediums) who follow after the doctrines of the French philosopher Allan Kardec. The Spiritualists believe in reincarnation. There are followers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints; small minorities of Jews; Muslims, Buddhists and numerous followers of Candomble and Umbanda (especially in northern Brazil). What is Candomble and Umbanda?

Candomble is a religion that was brought to Brazil by slaves from Nigeria. It is polytheistic and worships a number of African deity. Candomble believes that everyone is born with a patron god. Today, a blending of Catholicism and Candomble is practiced by many people throughout Brazil.

Umbanda is a religion derived from Candomble coupled with Christianity and Kardecism and is widely practiced thoughtout Brazil. Umbanda believes there is one supreme creator god who gives power to spirits of deceased people to counsel and guide believers. These dead spirits are also being transformed through spiritual evolution into other life forms and physical material.

Hmmm ... interesting. It sounds like Evangelical Friends has their work cut out for years to come. Let's get it on for the glory of Jesus Christ!

Thanks for your support and prayers ...
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Adrian

Classic sermon

Today I watched a classic sermon on TV. It was Rex Humbard preaching in the early 70's. His text was Mark 10 and the rich young ruler. His title, "Between two thieves." Humbard's key point: just as Jesus was crucified on a cross between two thieves two thousand years ago He is today by church people.

The two thieves are "what I should have done for Jesus yesterday but didn't" and "what I plan to do for Him tomorrow. The problem? Yesterday cannot be revisited and tomorrow never comes. All that matters is what we do for Jesus today!"

Thanks Rex for your years of service to Christ's kingdom. I'm sure you are enjoying your heavenly reward! I plan to as well someday.
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Thanks for stopping by!
Adrian

Buddha and the Bible

Tradition as I understand it says that Gautama (a man later known as the Buddha)was from a wealthy family and experienced worldly happiness in his younger years. At some point his happiness was shattered when he became aware of the common sufferings of life. His fixation with suffering lead him away from his family at age 29 at which time he shaved his hair and put on yellow garments. He lived in solitude, frequently moving from place to place in order to avoid people and discover enlightenment through fasting, solitude and meditation.

When this failed to provide Gautama inner peace he gave up fasting and solitude and one night under a fig tree had a great awakening to discovered what he called the path to salvation (commonly known as the middle path). The doctrine of Buddha teaches the end goal is Nirvana (the passing away of worldly existence into eternity where suffering no longer exists). To get to Nirvana one must endure several life times of suffering on earth in various forms. Redemption as defined by Gautama is living with the reality that all of the life times one must experience are a form of suffering which must be passed through successfully by doing good deeds and meditating on the knowledge gleaned from past experiences and the hope one has for future Nirvana. Tradition says that under the fig tree Gautama was transformed into the Buddha. His redemption experience so filled him with joy that he squat at the base of the fig tree for seven days.

For many centuries now Buddha has been portrayed as a big man squatting under a fig tree. His disciples still favor fall colors for their garments because it symbolizes the leaves of a tree just before passing from one life into the next. A process of suffering they believe all living creatures must pass through on middle path to Nirvana.

The Bible teaches in Romans that all men know about God through conscience, circumstances and creation. No doubt Gautama's quest for redemption was actually the grace of God calling him to a personal relationship with his Creator and to experience the true redemption that comes only through Jesus Christ. For those who accept the Divine invitation righteousness, peace and joy is experienced instantaneously. For those who reject the Creator's call the inner striving continues and quest for peace remains.

Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian

Socrates and Jesus

What if Socrates had met Jesus? I wonder how his life would have changed? He was truly a great thinker whose influence continues on to this day in philosophy. As we look back on his life we can see the fingerprint of God in his thoughts but to our knowledge Socrates never came to know the one true God. What if he had?

The significance of Socrates's approach to life is that one must know one's ignorance and embark upon a journey of thought. That through an awareness of what one does not know one will arrive at the very knowledge that is crucial for life. For Socrates, the good life consisted of the insatiable desire for self revelation.

He also believed in deity. That the traditional gods of his culture would help man in self discovery and lead man to ultimate truth. Through a process known to him as "daimonion" the gods would direct one through an inner voice that required obedience beyond reason for higher knowledge to be found. That man should trust the inner leading of deity and risk living in freedom as though he know good existed and was leading towards truth.

Socrates held to the immortality of the human soul. That peace of mind in life is based upon such certainty and that sources of doubt are removed through "pursuing good." Good for Socrates was a combination of self discovery and obeying the inner voice of deity.

Socrates took his own life in 399 B.C. by drinking poison. Some say the last thing he is known for saying is, "perhaps it is well to bathe before drinking the hemlock, and so spare the women the trouble of washing my body." One wonders how the story might have ended if Socrates had responded to the transforming call of God on his life?

Like Socrates, so many today are searching for inner peace and joy. Like the philosopher of old they too are forging a theory of thought and practice as a means to their final destination and yet, peace and joy eludes them just the same. Could you be such a person?

We must all yield to the call and plan of God in order to find righteousness, peace and joy. It can only be realized by those who have relationship with Jesus Christ and fully surrender self to His will. Know thyself today ... true living is absent until Jesus is present. Meet Jesus today!

Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian

Prayer request

This week as you join me in praying for the new Evangelical Friends Church mission field opening in Brazil later on this month would you specifically ask God to help me be successful in accomplishing my vision for this trip. My vision is to be known as the “eyes and feet” of the Evangelical Friends Church-Eastern Region on the ground in northern Brazil gathering information useful for discernment and implementation of Kingdom building opportunities and as an extension of her “heart” for the Brazilian people to feel, define, and develop trust in for future partnership in ministry.

The intelligence of an organization is measured in two primary ways today. One, by how effectively it can gather, process and respond to information. Two, by how it impacts others relationally. Providing good organizational and relational intelligence is a must for this first missionary sortie.

Thank you for your prayers,
Adrian

Brazil objectives

Mission Trip Performa
March 18-30, 2010
Submitted by: Adrian Halverstadt

Vision: (What do I want this mission trip to be primarily known for?)
Through this mission trip I want to be known as the “eyes and feet” of the Evangelical Friends Church-Eastern Region on the ground in northern Brazil gathering information useful for discernment and implementation of Kingdom building opportunities and as an extension of her “heart” for the Brazilian people to feel, define, and develop trust in for future partnership in ministry.

Mission: (What is my purpose for this mission trip?)
Evangelical Friends Church-Eastern Region
- To assist in opening a new mission field in Brazil with the intent of having at least one new EFC-ER church established by Easter of 2011 and an additional churches in the Following years.

- To obtain pertinent information for discernment and future planning
> Identify four church planting locations in the region of Carpina, Brazil
> Gather pictures and video useful for planning, promotion and prayer
> Identify indigenous Spirit-filled leadership and establish an international virtuous cycle of communication:

Leaders:
- Locate a “leader among leaders” who is strong in administration and savvy in communication
- Locate two leaders who possess a call and skill set for church planting and a fervor for evangelism

Virtuous communication:
- to develop a narrative of shared interest, passionate goals, ideas and tools, and
God stories of success

- develop a relational connection among leaders and supporters (future goal is to obtain 1000 supporters with virtual connection)

- to create mobilization through education, empowerment, and respect

- Define EFC-ER to Brazilians as an international community of Christ followers
who are “Great Command and Commission” in purpose


Willoughby Hills Friends Church
- To extend the ministry and influence of WHFC into Brazil

- To stoke the fire of excitement and expectancy during this time of transition
at WHFC by representing her as a commissioned servant, sharing favorable
reports on God’s activity in Brazil, and identifying connection points for future
involvement and the sharing of resources in northern Brazil for the glory of God.


Personal
- To answer the call/leading of the Holy Spirit to support the vision of EFC-ER

- To assess and discern future ministry opportunities for the Halverstadts in Brazil

- To exercise my spiritual gifts of preaching, teaching and administration as
opportunities present in Brazil


Barclay College
- To explore opportunities for BC to engage Kingdom building in Brazil through
partnership with EFC, Community Churches, and World Renewal International

Demonstrate Association:
- BC is an Evangelical Friends institution of higher education and is Great
Command and Commission in purpose.

- BC can quantitatively impact EFC’s vision for Brazil through human resources
> short term - faculty an staff can facilitate church teams

> mid term - faculty and students can provide extended on site service in
4-12 week intervals
- indigenous training
- field development
- higher relational intelligence and cultural relevance

> long term - greater exposure to students to the work of the Holy Spirit
through EFC missions with the hope that many would decide to return
for long term service

- BC can raise the organizational intelligence of EFC’s missions by:
> placing more skilled personnel on the field to gather information, assess
cultural needs, and network on location over longer periods
of time (8-12 week periods).

Marketing:
- Greater exposure for Barclay College to EFC and world

Academics:
- Strengthen the academic matrix of BC through cross culture experience

Mission:
- Expands the mission statement of BC internationally

- Explore the viability of a BC extension site in northeast Brazil



Objectives: (How will I focus my resources and measure my success?)
- Fulfill the stated vision and mission as stated

- Meet the rigors of the trip itinerary as listed below:
3/18 - Mission Board at WOC at 9:30 am
- Depart Akron/Canton Airport at 6:30 pm
3/19- Travel
3/20-29 -TBD (by Frank and Tele)
3/30-31 - Travel


Strategy: (What S.M.A.R.T. “Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and
Time-bound” goals do I have in preparation for the trip?)

- Purchase tickets by 2/20 (done $1499.70)

- Secure 40 prayer partners by 2/22 (44 as of 2/23)

- Post weekly prayer updates on my blog and FB page

- Apply for a Brazilian tourist Visa by 3/6

- Set itinerary with Frank and Tele by 3/6

- Submit final draft of the trip Performa to Dr. John Williams by 3/6

- Finalize budget by 3/6
Air - $1499.70
Ground transportation, lodging & food - $1000 (per Frank’s estimation)
Brazilian tourist visa - $300

- Prepare sermons, lectures and interview questionnaire by 3/17

- Pick up video equipment and cell phone with GMS from WOC on 3/18

- Attend Mission Board meeting on 3/18
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Thanks for reading this and I apologize for the formatting (Blogspot is not cooperating with me today)
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Adrian

Family Life Seminar at WHFC

Dr. John Trent
Institute for
The Blessing

Presents

Coffee Cup Coaching Seminar
with Dr. Tony Wheeler

WHEN: Saturday, April 10th

TIME: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

WHERE: Willoughby Hills Friends Church
2846 S.O.M. Center Rd
Willoughby Hills, Ohio 44094

CONTACT: Church Office @ 440-944-1026 or visit www.whfriends.org

ANXIETY ADDICTION LONELINESS DIVORCE DRUGS FINANCIAL ISSUES

This seminar is designed to equip the laity to care for each other and in turn reach out to the community and help families through real life issues.


This exciting training will empower people to overcome the fears they may have about reaching out and going to coffee with a friend to lend support. You will be amazed to see people set free to do the work of God in your body.

As you work with people two things become apparent. One, people are hurting and need someone who can lend a listening ear. Two, many people are gifted with counseling and communication skills in the church who are not being utilized as they should to help others in the body. The pastor and staff can never meet all of the needs of the individuals in the body, in fact, they were not meant to. The Bible makes it clear that we are to be caring for one another on an intimate level.

“Let’s Go To Coffee”

This half day seminar will prepare you to help hurting people by just being willing to care for them and offer them the same love and grace Christ has given you.

¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬
To Register for the Coffee Cup Coaching Seminar: contact the church office

Cost: $7.00 each or $10.00 per couple (includes continental breakfast)

Why Mission Work In Brazil?

Great question! For me the question is easily answered, "because Lisa said I could." Any other questions? Seriously, even though that is a legitimate answer in my life (smile) let me give you some other reasons for doing mission work in Brazil.

First, because Brazil is a field which God has cultivated for such a time as this and Evangelical Friends are ready to seed the Gospel in the soil of His preparation. Second, there is an obvious need for Kingdom development in Brazil. Though our partnership with World Renewal International we have identified over 400 communities within a one day drive of Carpina which do not have an Evangelical Church at this time. I will bring us great joy to assist the Brazilian people in establishing faith communities in their geographic location which God will use to transform individuals, their families and culture for His glory.

Third, we are Commission to go to every point on the globe by our divine Commander and Chief with a specific purpose in mind. In Matthew 28:19 Jesus said that we should "Go into all the world and make disciples baptizing them into the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit," and, He adds in Acts 1:8, as His "witness in the uttermost parts of the world" (Acts 1:8). These two passages have a common theme which Evangelical Friends address theologically. We believe that Christ's atonement not only provides for the forgiveness of sin but extends to the transformation of the heart (nature of man) as well. As we go into Brazil our intent is to present Jesus as the One who can immerse humanity into the very life of God so they can emulate Jesus to their fellow countrymen!

Real lasting Kingdom building and expansion will occur in Brazil when men, women, boys and girls consecrate their whole being to Jesus and are consequently filled with the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Then the purity and love of Christ will naturally ooze from their being. Only then will the influence of Christ be fully manifest in their daily life impacting the Brazilian culture for the glory of God. This is the message of holiness and we must proclaim it to the nation. The world needs to know that Jesus Christ can speak to the condition of all!

Fourth, Jesus tells us that missions is a natural result of the consecrated life. Once we receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit we naturally participate in missions! Note with me Christ's words from John 17, after praying "sanctify them," our Lord continues, "As You sent Me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate Myself, that they may also be consecrated in truth" (18-19). Jesus demonstrated the fullness of His transformation by coming to earth as a missionary. We can concluded from this passage that a primary sign of the fullness of Christ's work in man is participation in missions.

"Going forth into the world" is a litmus test for the fullness of the Holy Spirit, an evidence of the fully sanctified life. That is one of the main reasons why Evangelical Friends are Kingdom building in Brazil ... we can't help ourselves ... it's in our spiritual DNA!

What say you? Are you passionate about local and global missions? If not then ask Jesus Christ to entirely sanctify your life today. It's yours for the asking!
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Adrian

Brazil Prayer Request

I ask you to pray for godspeed on my Brazilian visa. I received word today that last week's electronic submission was declined so today I Federal Expressed a hard copy to the Brazilian Consulate. They tell me the turn around time is 12-15 business days and I need it no later than March 17.

Thanks for your prayers,

Adrian

Praying Through Transition

God's leading in Halverstadt family to transition from 30 years of pastoral ministry to academics/administration at Barclay College and church planting with Evangelical Friends in Brazil requires us to sell our home and relocate in Kansas. God has graciously identified a beautiful home for us to rent in Haviland and now I request your prayers for the sale of our Eastlake home. It was listed today on the MLS with Keller Williams.

Heavenly Father,
Lisa and I have fully consecrated our lives to You and celebrate this time of transition. We thank you for the gracious opportunity you have bestowed upon us to pastor such a fine church these past 12 years and ask for You to extend grace to her in this time of change. We have made dear friends who will forever remain in our hearts and mind.

We look forward to Your work at both Barclay College and Kingdom building with Evangelical Friends in Brazil. Please extend to us Your grace in this time of transition. May You be glorified through our lives and in the sale of our home (and Yours).

In Jesus' name,
Amen

Brazil Mission

I want to thank each of you who offered to pray for the Brazil church planting project for the next 40 days. My goal was to have 40 people praying for my March trip and at this point I have 42! PTL!

I will be submitting "prayer action items" each week. Today I want to include an informational letter for you to read from Frank Penna. Frank will be traveling with me to Brazil and assisting us in planting 400 new churches. Enjoy his words and thank you again for joining the prayer team.

Respectfully,
Adrian


Tuesday, February 23, 2010,

Thanks to all who have agreed to pray with us over the next few weeks. You are joining (at least) 40 others, some from the World Renewal Family, some from the Evangelical Friends Church-Eastern Region family, and those of you in my extended family and friends. I am thrilled with the fact that we are beginning this process by bathing it in prayer and intercession. God will be faithful to hear and answer our prayers!!

I aim to keep this simple, but effective and effectiveness will have a lot to do with consistency. Just a few minutes of prayer every day by so many people over this period of time will make for great results.

To begin, I suggest you take one of more pieces of paper that you can place in strategic spots (as a bookmark in your Bible, on your refrigerator or bathroom mirror, car dash), anywhere that will serve as a reminder to pray. Write on the paper 40/400. That means we are praying for 40 days for 400 communities within a days drive of Carpina, Brazil that do not have a gospel preaching church. The Lord has opened a door for Evangelical Friends churches to be planted in those places. We need His power, His anointing, His wisdom, and more to follow His lead in that effort. Sometime soon you will receive some of the names of those communities, but for now, here are a few of the requests on my heart over the next few days. Please join me as the Lord reminds you (especially when you see 40/400!).

Please Pray:

1) That the Lord Jesus Christ will be the focus of all we say do as we proceed. In the myriad of details and decisions to be made, we want to lift Him up in order that Brazilian men, women and children will be drawn to Him and Him alone.

2) That Brazilian leaders will be raised up, called and anointed as needed for this task.

3) That the Holy Spirit will give us direction and prepare the communities where we can be most effective.

4) For Steve Turner, Adrian Halverstadt, Frank Penna and Tele Moraes as they prepare to meet for two weeks in March for planning sessions.


God bless you all. 40/400 prayers are already making a difference!

God is on the move at my church!

Yep that's right! God is on the move at my church. My church currently is Willoughby Hills Friends. I've been on staff here for 12 years and recently announced that God is calling Lisa and I into another field of ministry. Starting July 1 we will be supporting God's kingdom building as a vice president at Barclay College and planting churches in Brazil with Evangelical Friends. I can't wait to see what new adventure God unfolds for the Halverstadts in the years ahead but for now I am pumped over what God is doing in my local church!

You ask, "How do you know God is working at WHFC" and "What are the signs of His activity?" Great questions! First John 4 lays the foundation for such discernment in the body of Christ. In fact, John commissions his readers to "test the spirits at work" in the following ways to see if God is in it.

One, Is Jesus Christ being exalted? (1 John 4:2) When the Spirit of God is present Jesus Christ is exalted. When the Spirit is moving Jesus will be exalted as God who came to earth in the flesh, died for the sin(s) of mankind, rose from the grave and lives victoriously today in the lives of those who seek Him. Jesus is "center stage" in the "life production" of WHFC ... God is on the move here!

Two, The work of Satan is being thwarted (1 John 4:4). The Bible says that "God is love"(4:8), and that Satan is out to kill, steal and destroy the manifestation of God's love in humanity. WHFC is a loving church. She is unified in Christ, cares for her own, and is extending the heart of Christ to the world through local and global missions. She is actively engaged in the process of pulling down the strongholds of Satan and reclaiming the turf that rightfully belongs to the King of Glory. God is on the move in my church!

Three, People are walking in holiness (1 John 4:6). To walk in holiness means to walk with Jesus "for He is the Spirit of Truth." WHFC has a renewed interest in following Jesus and not man, in reading the Bible and submitting to its authority. Her faith and trust is in the CEO, -JESUS- and she's not going crazy during this time of change in church leadership. Such peace in a church only manifests through relationship with Jesus Christ. The evidence of God control in the life of a consecrated Christian is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. These qualities cannot be manufactured by man ... they can only be imparted into a surrendered heart through a divine act of Christ.

Atta Boy Willoughby Hills Friends ... according to John 1 you have all the signs of a church that God is blessings! It is going to be exciting to see what miracles God unfolds in your midst. I am proud to say, "That's my church!" How about you?

Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian