AN ENCOURAGING EXAMPLE

 

On October 19, 2013 Pastor Stan Arias’ physical body was laid to rest.  Stan was 58 years old when he died and spent the last 34 years of his life pastoring World Vision Assembly of God in Vernal, Utah.  When Stan and the congregation renamed their church World Vision AG several years ago I must admit it startled me.  But I came to realize it reflected the vision Stan had to reach Vernal and support missions around the world.  He had a big, joyful heart with a resilient love for people.

Of course, his life was defined by more than his pastoral ministry.  He was a much loved husband, father, and active citizen in his community.  And, by the way, he had one of the sharpest motorcycles I have seen.  In the totality of his life he lived for Christ.  The church sanctuary (I think it seats around 250 people) was packed for his funeral and the outpouring of love and respect from the church, the community, and his pastoral colleagues was clearly evident.

Vernal is a community of 9,089 people according to the 2010 census.  The average church attendance of World Vision AG in 2012 was 130 people which is very significant in a community this size especially when you factor in the Mormon population which comprises 86% of the community. Yet, Stan’s influence reached far beyond the congregation.  He loved his community and spent his pastoral life ministering to Vernal.

Stan grew up in Denver, CO.  Often city people find it difficult to adjust to smaller communities and vice versa.  But God called Stan to Vernal and accompanied that calling with love for the community.  He was known to say he would rather live in Vernal than anywhere else.  Isn’t that just like God; we need not fear his call because he puts the desire in our heart needed to fulfill his plan.

Though Stan’s ministry did not show up in church journals or lead to preaching before massive crowds he faithfully fulfilled the call of God.  That obedience and joyful service in the place of God’s call transcends any human recognition in value to God and his kingdom.  Thank you, Lord, for Stan Arias and may he enjoy the wonder of your fully revealed presence and all the treasurers he laid up in heaven during the course of his life here on earth! 

Be encouraged to remain faithful to God’s calling and at the end of life’s journey you will hear Jesus say “Well done, good and faithful servant”.  What could be better than that?

RECENT CONNECTIONS

RECENT CONNECTIONS:

September 27 – October 6 Loretta and I took a road trip through southern Utah to visit with churches and pastors, and then meet with South West Region Superintendents in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Willard and Betty Coleman planted and pastored Richfield Assembly of God in Richfield, UT for the last 35 years.  Willard has been recovering from a serious stroke for the last several months.  After seeing Willard a few days earlier I was able to meet and pray with key leaders of the Richfield church Saturday the 27^th.  I thank God for Willard and Betty and the sacrificial work they have done to reach the Richfield area with the good news of Jesus Christ.  Please continue to pray for Willard and the church as they navigate through this season.

On Sunday, September 29^th I had the privilege of speaking at New Life Christian Center in St. George, UT and meeting with the board.  Jonathan Holiman is serving as interim pastor while the church seeks a new permanent pastor.  Jonathan serves as Associate Pastor at Westview Christian Center in Cedar City, UT and teaches at the University in Cedar City.  God has given Jonathan great favor with the University and the community.  God bless you Jonathan and Stephanie as you lead the church through this important transition.

Monday, September 30^th Loretta and I met with Pastor Jonathan and Lisa Hendren.  Jonathan is the new Pastor at New Beginning Christian Fellowship in Washington, UT (adjacent to St. George).  New Beginning recently joined the Assemblies as a PAC of Westview CC in Cedar City and is making its way to General Council status.  This church is experiencing significant growth.  Welcome to the district Jonathan and Lisa and may God richly anoint your ministry in Washington.

Tuesday, October 1^st Loretta and I met with Pastor Jerry and Emma Van Iwaarden.  Jerry pastors Westview Christian Center.  Jerry was instrumental in the adoption of New Beginning Christian Fellowship into the AG and the calling of Jonathan Hendren as pastor.  It is exciting to see how God is using Jerry and Emma in Cedar City and the surrounding area.  Jerry has become a pastor to the entire community of Cedar City. 

Then we traveled to Las Vegas for a two and a half day meeting with the South West Region Superintendents.  Dr. George Wood was present and the interaction was enriching and enjoyable.

On our way back to Colorado Springs I had the honor of speaking at New Life AG in Avon, CO for Pastor Dan Matney.  The congregation was delightful and populated by a large percentage of children.  Loretta commented to me that this church has some of the most beautiful children in our district.  God bless you Dan and Belinda as you lead this congregation forward.

October 8-9 we conducted our fall Presbytery meeting.  Among the many decisions made was approval to initiate a District School of Ministry (DSOM).  Randy Popineau, our Secretary/Treasurer is leading the research and planning for the launch of this educational resource.  This school will provide classroom teaching and be an avenue of preparation for ministry for those who cannot attend one of our AG colleges.  It will also provide an opportunity to equip congregants who serve in teaching and leadership roles in the church.  We will be sharing more about this initiative at our sectional tour meetings in February.

October 13-16 Loretta and I enjoyed a short vacation to Branson, MO.  I know, we have reached the age when a trip to Branson (the senior’s tour of the entertainment industry) is appealing.  We had a good time with my brother and sister and their spouses – but I digress.

October 19^th I attended the funeral of Pastor Stan Arias in Vernal, UT.  Stan and Karen went to Vernal 34 years ago to pastor what is now called World Vision AG.  This is the only church Stan pastored and he did a great job reaching out to the community and developing a strong congregation.  Along the way they constructed an attractive building and it was packed with people expressing their love and appreciation for Stan.  He had a significant impact on this community of 10,000 people.  Stan is an inspiration to stay faithful in our walk with God and the ministry to which God has called each of us.  May the Lord grant comfort to Karen and Stan’s family.

On the way back to Colorado Springs I joined Loretta in Keystone, CO at the CO WM district retreat.  Loretta spoke Friday night then several workshops were provided on Saturday morning followed by services Saturday night and Sunday morning.  Over 630 ladies were present and it was an enriching time of ministry and encouragement for all who came.  Thanks, Peggy Vawter and leadership team for providing this meaningful event.

Jesus is building His church in Colorado and Utah!  May God abundantly bless you in your place of calling.

PRAISE REPORTS:

Paul Scholtz received word from his Doctor that the cancer has stopped growing and he should have 10 more productive years ahead.

Many came to the aid of victims of the recent flooding in Northern Colorado.  Convoy of Hope came and worked together with Rever AG in Longmont, Pastor Zac Wilkinson and Timberline Church in Fort Collins, Pastor Dary Northrup to provide assistance.  Many from our AG churches in the surrounding areas volunteered time and resources to help under the umbrella of Convoy.  A total of $6,655.84 was given by churches and individuals through the district for flood assistance.  We gave $5,655.84 directly to Convoy of Hope for Colorado flood assistance and $1,000 to Glad Tidings AG in Greeley (Pastor David Meek) to help replace a church van damaged beyond repair in the flooding.  I am grateful our pastors and churches did not suffer significant loss in the flooding.

RECENT CONNECTIONS

Since my last ebulletin Loretta and I had the joy of joining with Austin Bluffs Community Church on August 24^th as they honored John and Cheri Pauls for 25 years of pastoral ministry.  Congratulations John and Cheri, and thank you for your persevering and prevailing ministry!  This is a significant achievement for Christ and His Kingdom.

Sunday, August 25^th Loretta and I had the privilege of visiting Passionate Life Church in Sheridan, CO.  Pastor Andrew and Dawn Thurber planted this church within the last two years as a PAC of Timberline Church.  The church is growing and doing well.  God bless you Andrew and Dawn as you continue this vital work.

Sunday, September 1^st, I was honored to speak at Bridge to Life Church in Canon City, CO as they celebrated their 75^th anniversary.  Pastor Larry and Marilyn Kettle planned a service that included songs from years ago and reminders of ministry through the years.  I thank God for this enduring church.  Eternity will reveal the many life-changing results from the ministry of this church.  May God use this church to His glory till Jesus comes.  We appreciate you and your ministry, Larry and Marilyn.

Sunday, September 8^th, I spoke at Lakeside Community AG in Sunset, UT for Pastor Lonnie and Pam Campbell on the occasion of the 10^th anniversary of the church.  Lonnie and Pam planted this church and developed it into a strong healthy church.  Now they are nearing the launch of a PAC in a nearby community.  God bless you Lonnie and Pam. 

Sunday evening Loretta and I enjoyed connecting with Pastor Ernie and Lisa Fonseca of Victory Fist AG in Brigham City, UT.  They are a great couple doing the work of God.

Though I was unable to attend I want to extend congratulations to Pastor Charlie and Miranda Stoumbaugh who were married Friday, September 13^th.  Charlie pastors Cornerstone Church in Buena Vista, CO and also serves as our Presbyter for the Mountain Section.

Friday, September 20^th Loretta and I traveled to UT where Loretta spoke at the District WM UT retreat.  This retreat set a new record attendance and was enriching to all who came.  Thanks Peggy Vawter and WM leadership team for providing this meaningful event.

During the retreat Randy Popineau and I visited Pastor Matt and Candice Roberts Friday evening to take in the ministry of Genesis Project in Ogden, UT.  Their ministry includes a Friday night service designed to reach the lost and three Sunday morning services.  Matt and Candice started Genesis Project 5 years ago as an independent church and then became a PAC of Timberline Church this year.  This church now runs a Dream Center in Ogden which they started in conjunction with Alfred Murillo. 

Matt and Candice grew up in Radiant Church in Colorado Springs and have a relationship with the AG through myself, Rod Cowles, and Randy Popineau from their years at Radiant.  The evening ended with Matt introducing me to a couple who have been in the church for one year.  After hearing Matt share his history at Radiant at the end of the service, the husband told Matt he gave his heart to the Lord and was baptized in Radiant Church several years ago while serving in the military in Colorado Springs.  I had to throw that in because it meant so much to me.  Our labor for the Lord is not in vain.