Sunday morning, June 16, I worshiped with Pastor Dale Munsell and the team at Cornerstone Wesleyan Church as they honored fathers. Cornerstone is another of our country churches, located 8 miles south of Albion and 10 miles north of Columbia City.
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Pastor Dale and Lori are originally from our district and after serving for many years in Illinois, Rev. Munsell came back home to pastor Cornerstone in 2017. In addition to the active ministries of the church, they also have a Christian school. Last year they averaged 55 in worship with 6 baptisms and 27 professions of faith. Cailtyn Alvord assists Pastor Dale with worship and youth ministry. After the service, I held a brief meeting with the LBA and affirmed the progress they’re making on the Maximizing Impact plan.
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Youth camps were in full swing across our district last week. We had over 300 students (combined total) meeting in three locations, at Hanging Rock Camp near Lafayette, Never the Same Camp at IWU, and the Junior High Camp at Fairmount. Monday, I dropped in at Fairmount for the first day of a busy week. Rev. Levi Lehman (Assistant Pastor at Shiloh Wesleyan) looked like he had everything under control when I caught up with him on the athletic field.
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This year’s theme at Fairmount is “FearLess” and Rev. Jeff Brady reported that counselors recorded 46 decisions for professions of faith or rededications for this week of junior high camp.

Monday afternoon, I met with Rev. Matthew Trexler, pastor at The River Church in Marion, for our annual coaching conversation. I’m grateful for Pastor Matthew’s leadership in his local congregation and for the way he invests in other leaders as our Assistant DS for Region 1.

Tuesday morning, I met with our district staff in Marion, before heading to Fort Wayne to connect with Pastor Heath Croft (Level 13 Church) for our annual coaching conversation. My final stop on Tuesday was an evening meeting with Pastor Lee Miller and the LBA team at Memorial Drive Wesleyan Church in Muncie as they consider Maximizing Impact and future ministry opportunities. I learned from Pastor Lee that two people came to Christ the Sunday that Assistant DS Chris Williams was there to preach and they’ll be among the 9 people being baptized at MDWC in the next month.

*** If your church would like to know more about Maximizing Impact, check out this article from Pastor Steve Arnett about Mt. Zion Wesleyan Church’s experience:

https://www.wesleyan.org/maximizing-impact-transforms-mt-zion-wesleyan

Wednesday morning, I met with a potential church planter in Marion before heading north to meet with Pastor Rich Van Vuren (Plymouth Shiloh Wesleyan) for our annual coaching conversation. Rich shared an encouraging update including the story of a man that he recently led to Christ and about the 5 people they have preparing for baptism.

Wednesday evening, I was in Indianapolis for the well-attended Wednesday evening prayer service at Central Wesleyan Church. Rev. Darrel Herring and his wife used to travel as song evangelists and accompanied the singing for the prayer service. Hearing them play together stirred fond memories of my father and mother doing the same.
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After the prayer service, I met with Central’s leadership team in the fellowship hall. Like many urban congregations, Central Wesleyan is facing some critical decisions about its ministry future as the community around it changes rapidly.

Thursday morning, I joined Rev. Chris Williams and the District Conference planning team as they confirmed some final details for our gathering this weekend. Then, Assistant DS Trexler and I met with Rev. Aldean Pablo over lunch for an update on his strategic action plan to make disciples and build a team for planting a new congregation called “SEND Church” on the southwest side of Fort Wayne. Later on Thursday afternoon, I met with Pastor Nicholas Zarate in Anderson for a church multiplication conversation.

My last meeting of the day was with Rev. David Shafer (pastor of North Anderson Wesleyan Church) for our annual coaching conversation. He and his team are working together to implement their Maximizing Impact plan. A highlight of our conversation was celebrating with Pastor David over the eight teenagers who’ve given their lives to Christ at NAWC since November 2018.

Friday morning, Chris and I met for our weekly check-in and then we were joined for lunch by Michael Colaw (Assistant DS for Region 2), and Matthew Trexler (Assistant DS for Region 1) for a vision alignment conversation. Chris, Mike, and Matthew have all developed unique approaches to leadership development and multiplication mapping in their respective regions. It was good for us to compare notes on last year’s progress and to build alignment toward our district goal of seeing at least 10 new Kingdom communities launched each year while raising up 100 new disciple-making leaders.
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My last stop on Friday was at the closing rally for the first week of Never The Same camp at IWU. Charlie Alcock was the main rally speaker for the week and I always appreciate hearing his heart for mobilizing the next generation. Rev. Jeff Eckart and his team are building momentum for a nationwide prayer gathering for students in Kansas City next summer, July 4th weekend, called Claim Your Campus 2020. To learn more, visit their website: CLAIM YOUR CAMPUS 2020

District Conference week is one of the highlights of our Crossroads District calendar. We will gather in Marion on the campus of Indiana Wesleyan University at the Philippe Performing Arts Center on Friday evening, June 21, for the Ordination Service led by General Superintendent Dr. Wayne Schmidt. All ordained ministers gather at 6:30 p.m. for our annual group photo (formal attire) and then to line up for the procession. All guests should be in their seats before 7 p.m.
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​Doors open for District Conference on Saturday at 8 a.m. in the Philippe Performing Arts Center again with the first session commencing at 9. We are pleased to have Dr. Wayne Schmidt, our GS and a member of our district conference, to be present with us for these sessions. We would all be grateful if you would take time this week and join us in praying for God to have His way in our deliberations and elections.

Your servant in Christ,
Mark Gorveatte

Sunday morning, June 9, Sherry and I had the privilege of worshiping at Tipton Trinity Wesleyan Church with Pastor Johnnie and Pastor Amanda Blair. They were celebrating Friend Day as part of their 20/20 Vision series. Pastor Johnnie preached from John 4 and cast vision for a church that exists to bridge the gap between our loving God and broken people.
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Speaking of Jesus’ interaction with the woman at the well, Rev. Blair reminded us that “Jesus went out of His way to connect with people that everyone else went out of their way to avoid.” This is an exciting season of ministry as Tipton Trinity has adopted Kokomo Trinity for a revitalization project that expands their potential impact. Last year, Tipton Trinity reported 40 professions of faith, celebrated 16 baptisms and averaged 248. Pray for God’s continued direction and blessing as they reach into Kokomo.
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Last Monday’s meeting concluded with Dr. Bob Hallett, CEO of TLC Stewardship Ministries. Bob and his wife are members of our Hartford City Wesleyan Church since relocating there from New Castle. Bob has tremendous experience in capital campaigns and church stewardship ministries. We’ll be working with Dr. Hallett this fall to offer a seminar on October 7 (9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) for pastors and LBA members on the topic of “Resourcing God’s Vision.” Follow-up coaching and consultations will be available as we work to help disciples and congregations fully realize the Kingdom impact of their stewardship. Bob will be at our Crossroads District Conference with a free resource for pastors and lay leaders who will plan to join us for this seminar.

Monday’s meetings included a Nominating Committee follow-up, connecting with a prospective church planter, and dropping in on Angela Spangler and some of her dedicated staff members at Fairmount Camp.
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This week, Fairmount Camp hosts the Junior High youth. I’m grateful for the way that Angela and her team graciously host a great group of youth pastors from across the Crossroads District for summer ministries. While at the camp, I had the opportunity to connect with some of the students and ministry leaders who were onsite preparing for this week’s event. Please remember all of our youth camps in your prayers!
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Tuesday morning began with our CD (Crossroads District) staff meeting at Abbey Coffee and then I hit the road for New Castle. Rev. Eric George (pastor of New Castle Memorial Wesleyan Church) and I met for our annual coaching conversation. Pastor Eric is just in his first year leading the congregation and joining our team. It was good to hear how God is at work in the church and their outreach to the community.

Tuesday afternoon, I met with Rev. Tom Cochran and learned more about his ministry with Destiny Rescue, a nonprofit that rescues children from human trafficking. Tom and Sarah will be relocating to Florida to spearhead Destiny Rescue’s southeastern US awareness and fundraising. We’re grateful for the contribution that the Cochran’s made as part of our Crossroads District team planting New Journey Church in Wabash, serving in Chesterton, and leading our church planter assessment center.

Rev. Brian Williams (Swayzee Sims Wesleyan Church) and I met for our annual coaching conversation over supper in Marion. Pastor Brian has faithfully served the congregation since 1987. It was encouraging to hear that he had shared the plan of salvation with two men in the past year who both prayed to receive Jesus as Lord. Brian is another of our valued bi-vocational pastors who balances the challenges of full-time ministry in the marketplace with his calling to serve the local church.

Tuesday evening, I was able to participate in Rev. Dan LeRoy’s presentation “Rediscovering Our Holiness Heritage” at Wesley Seminary. Dr. Derr and her team did a wonderful job of hosting the full house for this event.
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This wonderful gathering included a cross-section of academics, pastors, and lay leaders. Dan’s presentation on holiness was compelling and convicting. If you were unable to attend, Wesley Seminary has graciously provided this link to the video: Dan LeRoy’s presentation

Wednesday morning, I was back on the road meeting with Rev. Logan Westrick, one of our young-at-heart pastors, who leads the Ash Street Wesleyan Church in Tipton. Pastor Logan has a warm heart and a quick wit so you can understand why I enjoy meeting with him. In addition to other projects around the church, Pastor Logan and his team recently installed this new light to welcome their guests. He was also excited to report that they had a baptism scheduled for this week.
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I met with Rev. Darrel Herring for lunch near his home in Westfield. Rev. Herring is on loan to our denomination from the Bible Methodists and has served under annual appointment as our supply pastor at Indianapolis Central Wesleyan since 2002. It was good to glean from his insights into the changing Fountain Square downtown Indy neighborhood where this church is located.

Wednesday afternoon, I met with Community Pastor Joe Deckard who leads the Pendleton campus of Waterline Church. Pendleton was rocked by last week’s tornado but is on a rapid path to recovery. Pastor Joe has been able to lead their volunteer team in connecting and serving families displaced by the storm damage. The church is also making progress averaging 80 or more in recent weeks.

Thursday morning, I joined Rev. Chris Williams and our District Conference planning team for a Zoom meeting while I was on the road to Indy for a coaching conversation with Rev. Rick Matthews. Pastor Rick has been leading our Southview Wesleyan Church since his first appointment in 1983. This weekend, Pastor Rick and his team hosted their first Camp-In. More than 20 families from the congregation brought their RVs, campers and tents to enjoy a weekend together on the church grounds.

Thursday afternoon, I had the privilege of connecting with Rev. Nathan and Jenny Richardson as they are prayerfully considering ministry opportunities in the Crossroads District. They are just concluding an effective time of ministry in Iowa and we’d be delighted to have them join our team.

Pastor Lee Miller (Muncie Memorial Wesleyan Church) and I met for our annual coaching conversation over supper in Muncie that evening. Pastor Lee is another of our Wesley Seminary students. One of his recent initiatives has been providing a leadership development session after the Sunday morning worship services.
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They’ve also started prayer walks and ice cream socials to connect with their neighborhood. Two young adult men in the neighborhood, who first connected with the church through an ice cream social, have now begun meeting regularly with Pastor Lee for discipleship and are on track to be baptized this summer. This past conference year, Muncie Memorial averaged 52 in worship with 10 professions of faith and 5 baptisms.

Friday morning, Rev. Chris Williams and I met for our weekly check-in at Abbey Coffee. Dr. David Smith and Roxene Lo joined us at 10 a.m. for follow-up on recent DBMD interviews. Our DBMD interview teams work with an average of 100 students each year.

Friday afternoon, I left for Grand Rapids, Michigan to spend the day on Saturday with Rev. John Gorveatte, pastor at The Center Church, and his leadership team in a planning retreat. John is our oldest son and he serves as a teaching/campus pastor in the Zero Collective with Pastor Brian Blum and the team at Frontline Church. Nothing gives parents more joy than to see their children walking with Jesus!
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​Are you ready? We’re counting the days until we gather at Indiana Wesleyan University on Friday evening, June 21, for our Crossroads District Ordination Service with Dr. Wayne Schmidt, our General Superintendent, preaching a challenging message to our candidates. Saturday morning, we gather at the Philippe Performing Arts Center for our Crossroads District Conference. Registration opens at 8 a.m. and everyone will be in their seats and ready to roll by 9. We have a full agenda, including memorial and delegate elections for the important General Conference 2020. If you’re not able to be with us, please lift these gatherings in prayer!

Your servant in Christ,

Mark Gorveatte

Crossroads District Superintendent

Sunday morning, June 2, I had the privilege of worshiping with Pastor Paul and Angelyn VanCise and the team at Bryant Wesleyan Church. Pastor Paul has served here since 2003 and God is blessing his ministry at this vibrant rural church. They have a wonderful impact in their community and are expanding their ministry partnership in Honduras.
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Bryant Wesleyan’s leadership team participated in a StratOp planning retreat earlier this year and are working on two key action initiatives to move the church forward to even greater effectiveness. After a brief meeting with the LBA, I enjoyed lunch with the VanCise family in Portland.

Last Tuesday began with our district office staff meeting at Abbey Coffee on Tuesday working on wrapping up this conference year. I met with Pastor Steve Binns (Anderson Lone Oak) over lunch for our annual coaching conversation. This is Steve’s first appointment as a pastor so it has been a year of learning and new experiences.

Tuesday afternoon, I met with Pastor Chuck Moorer (Indianapolis Divine Direction) for our annual coaching conversation. Rev. Moorer has his own business and a blossoming music career, but still makes time to lead the church in impacting their inner-city community. Last Thanksgiving, they provided meals for 300 people and then adopted 50 families to bless for Christmas. They are training volunteers and preparing to roll out a new food bank program with a strong discipleship component.
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​Wednesday morning, I had a meeting in Marion and then had the privilege of participating in the 2019 Doctrinal Symposium directed by the Education and Clergy Development Department of The Wesleyan Church and hosted by Wesley Seminary.  This year’s symposium focused on “Kingdom Force: Disciples Making Disciples in the New Testament and Early Church.” Presentations from Dr. Ken Schenck (IWU), Dr. Sarah Derck (Houghton), Dr. Stephen Elliot (Kingswood) and Dr. David Riggs (IWU) were received with opportunities for reflection and discussion. The backdrop for this event is the focus that Dr. Wayne Schmidt, our General Superintendent, has given to disciples making disciples. Here are some of the discipleship questions that Dr. Schmidt posed in his article on the healthy church:
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• Are the disciples being equipped to make disciples?
• Are the believers set apart as holy and equipped to use their spiritual gifts?
• Are there people committing to follow Christ and being baptized among us?
• Are we an intentional witness in communities nearby and around the globe?
• Is there intentional progress toward sending out leaders and multiplying new churches? (From https://www.wesleyan.org/whats-a-church)
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You can access the symposium’s working document at this website: www.bit.ly/2Wa2KAS
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The symposium concluded at lunchtime on Thursday so I was able to head down to Lapel in the afternoon to connect with Pastor Andy Cole at Daybreak Community Church for our annual coaching conversation. These are exciting days at Daybreak with attendance now running over 100. They have welcomed 3 new families since Easter and have 8 baptisms scheduled for June 23.

Friday morning, I connected with Chris Williams for our weekly planning session and then met with Dr. David Smith to review items for the District Board of Ministerial Development. Dr. Smith does a terrific job leading our credentialing team in serving as many as 100 ministerial students each year.

Friday afternoon, I met with Pastor Matthew Ohime (Hamlet Davis Wesleyan Church) for our annual coaching conversation. Pastor Matt is leading DWC in an intentional revitalization project that included reclassifying the church as “developing” and they have signed on for a Maximizing Impact consultation (July 18-21). They’ve recently celebrated baptisms and are remodeling their welcome area and worship center. I love seeing churches like Davis Wesleyan take bold steps to become more effective in the mission of God!

Friday evening, I met with Pastor Calimerio Rodriguez (Templo de Poder) in Frankfort. Pastor Rodriquez is another of our faithful bivocational pastors who serves the Lord with passion and effectiveness. The family has sensed God’s grace in the past month as they experienced both the funeral of Calimerio’s brother-in-law and the wedding of Ezekiel, their son. Pastor Alan Downing (Connecting Point Church) and Rev. Rodriguez (Templo de Poder) are to be commended for the wonderful partnership they are developing between their congregations to better impact Frankfort for Christ.
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The community of Pendleton took a direct hit last Monday evening with an EF2 tornado damaging at least 75 homes. Fortunately, there were few injuries and no lives were lost. The Pendleton campus of Waterline Church was not damaged. Rev. Joe Deckard, Pendleton Waterline’s Community Pastor, led the team of staff and volunteers from both Waterline campuses that sprang into action serving meals and providing support to the relief efforts. The team from Waterline is working closely with the Pendleton EMA as cleanup operations continue.  Thank you to Pastor John & Danielle Freed, Pastor Joe, and the Waterline team for responding so well to this crisis.

This was a big graduation weekend in many of our churches. Congratulations to these graduating seniors and their families. Rev. David Hines (Brookhaven Wesleyan in Marion) was one of the youth pastors who made celebrating these seniors a special part of the worship service. Many of them will be heading to Indiana Wesleyan University this fall and we’re blessed to have this partnership in discipling the next generation.
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Pastor Zach Working reported that in addition to recognizing three graduates yesterday, Huntington Hope Rising Wesleyan Church also welcomed 20 new church members and had 1 individual declare a call to ministry!

This Sunday was also special at Rising Hope Church, our newest church plant in Muncie, not only for celebrating graduates but it also marked the first time that they have been able to worship in their building at 1500 W. Cowing Drive. They’ve been meeting in the nearby middle school since launching last fall. Having their own building reduces costs and the energy required for setup each week. They will have an official grand opening in the fall but the team worked overtime last week to prepare the facility for this occasion.
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​Plan to join us this Tuesday, June 4 (7:00 p.m.) at Wesley Seminary in Marion as Rev. Dan LeRoy lectures on “Rediscovering Our Holiness Heritage.” Our General Superintendent is making this a priority on his calendar and we’d love to welcome you.

Fairmount, Frankfort, Hanging Rock and Never the Same youth camps are ramping up for another summer of life-changing ministry. Students from College Wesleyan and Lakeview Wesleyan headed off yesterday for 3 Fires Camp. Please pray for all of these camps, the young people and the staff. Pray for safety in travel and activities but, most importantly, pray for eternal spiritual impact in these lives. Thank you to the volunteers, donors, and parents who make these camps possible!

Keep on making a difference in the cause that counts for eternity!

Your servant in Christ,

Mark Gorveatte

Crossroads District Superintedent

P.S. – Mark your calendar for District Conference and Ordination, June 21-22, at the Philippe Performing Arts Center on the campus of Indiana Wesleyan University.

Sunday, May 26, I had the privilege of worshiping with Rev. Alan Downing and the team at Connecting Point Church in Frankfort during their morning service. Pastor Downing preached on the Armor of God from Ephesians 6 and shared illustrations from his military service. In addition to their recent name change and updating the auditorium, the church is making strides in serving their community. I also appreciate the way they have opened their doors to embrace Pastor Calimario Rodriguez and the congregation of Templo de Poder.
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Sunday afternoon, Rev. Barry Dixon (member of our DBA) and I worshiped with the wonderful congregation of Shalom Church on the southside of Indianapolis. We were there to officially welcome the new members and install the leaders of this Wesleyan congregation comprised of immigrants from Myanmar (Burma). Rev. Dixon and I also had the privilege of administering the Lord’s Supper. After the service, we had a meeting with the leadership team as they move into full fellowship with The Wesleyan Church.
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Pastor Rick Matthews and the Southview Wesleyan Church have been wonderful hosts and partners to this growing congregation. Shalom Church has their first student headed to Indiana Wesleyan University and they are making plans to bring their youth group to Follow 2019 in Cincinnati. Special thanks also to Lay Supply Pastor Benjamin Tuimuk who serves the congregation so well. Worship attendance at Shalom averages 80 with nearly 30 children and teens.
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Chris Williams and I had the opportunity to serve Rev. Mike Hilson and the leadership team at New Life Network in LaPlata, MD, on Monday and Tuesday last week. Mike and Tina Hilson graciously served our district team for ReEquip last month and we were glad to be able to reciprocate. Wednesday was a prep day for the DBA meeting and I also participated in the monthly ZOOM call that Dr. Wayne Schmidt, our General Superintendent, hosts for district superintendents.

Wednesday evening, I was able to attend the closing service of the revival at Lancaster Wesleyan Church with Rev. Gary Bingham serving as evangelist. He shared a compelling dramatic presentation as a Roman centurion who was present at the crucifixion and became convinced that Jesus was the Messiah. Rev. Doug Sharrard is the pastor at Lancaster Wesleyan and Rev. Duane Cragen assists with community outreach.

Thursday afternoon, our Crossroads District Board of Administration gathered at Trinity Wesleyan Church in Indianapolis for our fourth quarterly meeting. It was encouraging to hear more reports of life change and community impact. I am also grateful to report that our churches participated at a high level in our United Stewardship Fund commitment with 96.6% participation. Thank you for investing in our shared ministry with our denominational initiatives and educational institutions. Together, we are stronger.

Our Crossroads District retired pastors and spouses gathered for their spring fellowship at College Wesleyan Church. Dr. Bud Bence talked about the ways that God communicates His lessons in our life. Velvet Haisley and “The Branch” catered a delicious meal for the 60+ guests who joined us. We enjoyed wonderful fellowship and prayer together. Thank you to Chip Bos and College Wesleyan Church for their hospitality.
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Friday evening, Sherry and I had the privilege of hosting pastors and spouses from the north Indy zone at Thornapple. Some of the couples were joining us for the first time. I always enjoy seeing the connections that are made in these evenings together as team members share stories of their families and journey in ministry.
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Saturday, we had the joy of welcoming 18 of our Crossroads District Hispanic pastors and spouses for our annual fellowship. Dr. Norman and Kim Wilson do a wonderful job of encouraging this growing network of leaders. This was the first time for some of them to meet Rev. Eliorgy Guerrero and Rev. Franz Gonzales, our newest pastors from Venezuela,  who lead Spanish-language congregations in Elkhart and Goshen. I am encouraged by the commitment of these leaders to multiplying new Kingdom communities. All of these pastors serve bi-vocationally and with great commitment.
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This was a significant weekend of outreach for The Bridge Urban Church in South Bend as they partnered with Pastor Troy Evans and his team from the Edge Church in Grand Rapids. The theme was “Love Our City” and included prayer walks, servant evangelism, and concluded on Saturday evening with a Christian rap concert. Sunday’s worship service had 60 adults and 15 children. They’re praising the Lord for 7 decisions for Christ over the weekend. Continue to pray for Pastor Terry and Lennaire as they lead this wonderful team in reaching into the urban center of South Bend.
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This week, I’ll be on the road for coaching conversations and also taking part in the Wesleyan Doctrinal Symposium on Wednesday and Thursday at Wesley Seminary. Make plans to join us next Tuesday, June 4, 7:00 pm, at Wesley Seminary as they welcome Rev. Dan LeRoy for an important conversation on “Rediscovering Our Holiness Heritage.”
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​Thank you for all you do to advance the Kingdom!

Your servant in Christ,

Mark Gorveatte
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Crossroads District Superintendent

More than 200 delegates from 50+ countries gathered in Bridgetown, Barbados this past week for the quadrennial International Conference of The Wesleyan Church. The Wesleyan Church, unlike some denominations, has intentionally decentralized and distributed authority to the global church. Full General Conferences now exist in the Philippines (more than 50,000 members in 3000+ churches), The Caribbean, and now Ibero-America (the Spanish-language countries of Central and South America).
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​The African church is rapidly developing and could qualify for General Conference status in 2023. Canada is a National Conference with a trajectory for full General Conference in the next decade. Australia/New Zealand/Solomon Islands form the Pacific Regional Conference. Each conference shares the same constitution and doctrinal essentials, although great flexibility is provided for governance and methodology that is faithfully contextualized. Each General Conference is represented on the International Board by one General Superintendent, and additional delegates are elected at large.

Fellowship and worship with these Wesleyan brothers and sisters from around the globe is inspiring and challenging. We have so much to learn from the effective disciple-making, church planting and leadership development that they are undertaking in some of the most difficult circumstances. We heard testimonies of the persecuted church from leaders in India, China, and from Muslim countries. We heard stories of accelerated church planting in Bangladesh and Columbia. Unfortunately, the rapidly-growing Wesleyan church of Mozambique was not represented due to the devastating storms they’ve endured.

One example is in the city of Mumbai (formerly Bombay). The Wesleyan Church has been envisioning a transforming presence in every zip code. but what does that look like in Mumbai? For them, it is having a church near every local train station. Millions of people pass through the 107 Mumbai metro stations every day. In just a few years, Wesleyan church planters have already established regular meetings at eight stations and believing God to help them multiply churches near the remaining 99.
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The conference ended on Tuesday evening with a wonderful celebration of praise and challenging vision message from Dr. Wayne Schmidt. The theme of the ICWC is “Everywhere to Everywhere” and being together in mission with these Wesleyan brothers and sisters is truly inspiring as we consider the task unfinished here in Indiana.

Wednesday was a day of collaborative planning for key regions of the world. I was able to join Dr. Rich Schenck and Joshe Bose, National Director for Bangladesh, to explore Asia-Pacific partnerships. While there is still a need for missionaries in many parts of the world, it is encouraging to see the leadership of these nations strategizing together to take the Gospel to unreached nations and people groups in their region of the world.
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Thursday was a day of extended travel, leaving our hotel at 3:30 am, flying to Miami, Philadelphia and on to Fort Wayne, only to have weather divert us to Indianapolis before returning to FWA. I arrived home at 2:00 am on Friday morning, safe and thankful!

Friday morning, I met with Assistant DS Chris Williams to review year-end reporting and preparations for upcoming meetings. Rev. Matthew Trexler joined us at 10 in preparation for their StratOp consultation. Rev. Mark Atkinson, Rev. Trexler and I met over lunch in Gas City for an update on Eastview Wesleyan’s church planting initiative with Rev. Aldean Pablo and a prospective launch team in Roanoke. You’ll be hearing more about this exciting development at District Conference!

Friday afternoon, I met with a young couple who are early in their ministry and exploring next steps before heading to Noblesville to be part of the StratOp planning retreat that Chris and Matthew led for Circle of Hope Church and Network. Circle of Hope is on a steep learning curve and this was a key opportunity to develop clear strategy and action plans for the exciting opportunities in front of them.
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Saturday morning, I hosted another Bivocational Pastors Fellowship at the Branch in Fairmount. Approximately 50% of our Crossroads District ministers have additional full-time or part-time employment beyond their pastoral employment to support their families. It was encouraging to hear the Easter reports and stories of life change. Thank you to Velvet Haisley and her team for their gracious hospitality and delicious lunch.

Saturday evening, I met with Rev. Barry and Vickie Taylor for a delightful conversation and then dropped in on Sunday morning as Rev. Taylor candidated for the senior pastor position at Hartford City Wesleyan Church this weekend. Barry is an Asbury Seminary grad with experience in church planting, revitalization and consulting. They currently serve with the Evangelical Methodist Church and live in Wheeling, West Virginia. The congregation voted 72-0 to call Rev. Taylor and he has accepted the initial 2-year call.

​I also received word from Beaver Creek Wesleyan that they voted 93% in favor of calling Ben Jones as their next pastor. Ben called to let me know that he is accepting their invitation. Ben is a licensed minister who has been serving as an assistant pastor on staff with Rev. Greg Holmes at South Bend Sonlight. Pray for Pastor Ben as he takes this step forward in answering God’s call.

Chris Williams and I are in La Plata, Maryland on Monday and Tuesday this week to work with Pastor Mike Hilson and the leadership team at New Life Wesleyan Church. Our District Board of Administration meets on Thursday. Our Retired Pastors and Spouses Fellowship meets on Friday for lunch at College Wesleyan Church. Sherry and I will be hosting a Zone Fellowship on Friday night at Thornapple and then, on Saturday, our Hispanic Pastors Fellowship is coming to the house for lunch.

Thank you for all you do to advance the Kingdom by making disciples and multiplying churches here in the Crossroads District!

Your servant in Christ,

Mark Gorveatte

P.S. Please plan to join us on June 4, 7 p.m., at Wesley Seminary for a presentation from Dan LeRoy, author of Rediscovering Our Holiness Heritage.

​I’m in Barbados this week for the International Conference of The Wesleyan Church. Sunday morning, I attended the Mother’s Day Service at Cave Hill Wesleyan Church pastored by Rev. Dr. Beverly Lashley and her husband, Jeff. Beverly is a recent graduate from Wesley Seminary and is doing a wonderful job leading this church turnaround.
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​Sunday evening was the opening rally of the conference with Rev. Dr. Wayne Schmidt leading the North American General Conference delegation and Pastor Alex Cicilia (Mexico) preaching. Business sessions begin on Monday morning and concludes on Tuesday evening, Please keep these meetings in your prayers as the global Wesleyan church strategizes to take the Gospel from everywhere to everywhere. You can learn more about the conference at this website:

https://icwc.wesleyan.org/

Last Monday morning, I met with the leadership team at Marion Lakeview Wesleyan Church for an update as they care for the church during Pastor Tim McClellan’s recovery. Thank you for partnering with Tim and Cynthia in prayer through this journey.

Monday evening through Wednesday noon, I was in Fishers with Dr. Wayne Schmidt and the General Board of The Wesleyan Church for our annual spring meeting. Dr. Anita Eastlack shared the sobering statistic that last year The Wesleyan Church closed 22 churches and only opened 12 new congregations. Preparations are underway for the General Conference to be held in St. Louis next year.

Wednesday afternoon, Pastor John Miller, church planter for Way City Church in Speedway, and I met for our annual coaching conversation. They’ve secured a meeting location for their fall launch and are starting a second Bible study group this week.

Thursday morning, Rev. Chris Williams led a coach training session at Eastview Wesleyan Church for district pastors who are part of our Maximizing Impact consultation ministry. It was good to connect with these leaders in our church revitalization ministry. Chris does a great job training ministry coaches for our district and is available to share this training with your local church.
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Thursday afternoon, I was in Fishers to sign legal documents for Trinity Wesleyan Church. My final meeting of the day was my annual coaching conversation with Rev. Dr. Rich Schenck and Pastor Carol Schenck (Circle of Hope Network).  Rev. Joshe Bose, national superintendent for The Wesleyan Church in Bangladesh, joined us for supper. The Circle of Hope Network had 309 in attendance for Easter weekend in their six locations, from Beech Grove to Bangladesh.

Friday morning, I met with Pastor Zach Working for an encouraging update on the revitalization project that he and Pastor Carla are leading at Hope Rising Church in Huntington. Friday afternoon, I met with Pastor Scott McDermid (Sheridan Six Points Church) on follow-up items as he prepares for ordination. Six Points Church welcomed 440 for Easter weekend with 76 of those in children’s ministry, a new record!

Congratulations to Rev. Dr. Steve Bray (Fountain City Wesleyan Church) on his graduation from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School with his Doctor of Ministry degree!
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​Thank you for all you do to advance God’s Kingdom!

Your servant in Christ,

Mark Gorveatte
Crossroads District Superintendent

​I spoke with Pastor Tim McClellan last evening as he and Cynthia were traveling to Ohio. Tim is having a consultation at the Cleveland Clinic today to look into potential treatment options. He continues making progress in recovery from the surgery but there is uncertainty about whether the cancer may have spread further. Tim and Cynthia are grateful for the love and continuing prayers of their Marion Lakeview Wesleyan Church family and the Crossroads District team.
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I would also welcome your prayers this week as I represent our team at the General Board meeting of The Wesleyan Church in Indianapolis (May 6-9), and represent the North American General Conference at the International Conference of The Wesleyan Church meeting in Barbados beginning on Sunday through Wednesday, May 12-15. These are exciting and challenging days for which The Wesleyan Church desperately needs God’s anointing and direction. May we be fully committed to doing what He is blessing!

​You are invited to join us at The Crossroads District Conference which will be held on Friday, June 21 and Saturday, June 22 at the Phillippe Performing Arts Center on the campus of Indiana Wesleyan University.

Our Celebration of Ministry Service, where we ordain new ministers and honor those ministers who are retiring, will be held on Friday, June 21 at 7:00 pm. All ordained ministers in the Crossroads District will gather at 6:30 pm for pictures and to line up for the processional into the service.

Our Annual Business Session will be held on Saturday, June 22, 9 am to 4 pm. We will spend time in worship and hear vision updates from our General and District Superintendents. We will also elect officers and discuss General Conference memorials.

The theme for this year’s conference is Multiply. Together, we will be exploring the multiplication of services, campuses, and new kingdom communities as a key strategy in closing the “Gospel Gap” in our region. Here’s our conference website:
http://conference.crossroadsdistrict.org.

Your year-end reports are due by May 15, 2019. Final CSF payments for the 2018-2019 fiscal must be received no later than May 10 to be recorded for the current fiscal year. All payments received after May 10 will be recorded for the 2020 fiscal year.

If you have questions or if you need assistance with year-end reports, please contact Roxene Lo in the district office (roxene@crossroadsdistrict.org or 765.674.8593).
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Thanks in advance for your prompt attention and timely submission of your reports as we prepare for District Conference 2019.

​Do you wish your outreach ministry, both locally and globally, was more intentional?

The Festival on Outreach will be a great opportunity for your whole team to network and interact with other churches, Global Partners, World Hope, and World Gospel Mission and learn how to go beyond projects to building missional partnerships.  The Festival on Outreach will be held on May 20-21, 2019 at College Wesleyan Church. Cost is $35 or $25 for groups 5 and over. We hope you can attend this great event, you will leave inspired and challenged
Register now at  www.collegewes.com/festival.

It is a joy to serve with you in the cause that counts for eternity!

Your servant in Christ,
​
Mark Gorveatte
Crossroads District Superintendent

​This week’s team update is a guest post by Chris Williams, one of the Assistant District Superintendents in the Crossroads District.

Additional Easter Reports

Reports from churches across the district have been coming into the district office as pastors have been sharing what God did in their congregation on Resurrection Day. Here are a few highlights:
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• Edgerton: 166 in attendance and 2 men who committed their lives to Christ.
• Marion Chapel Pike: 284 in attendance and baptized 5 individuals.
• Fort Wayne Lifeway: 379 attending, 3 confessions of faith, and several rededications.
• Winchester: 69 in attendance with 7 first-time adult guests.

Pastor Randy Yaryan from Winchester also shared about how they have seen God’s miraculous power over the past several months. Last November, a 17-year-old boy, connected with their church, jumped from a grain silo. The boy ended up with multiple broken bones and the doctors were sure that he wouldn’t live, but if he did he would never be able to walk again. On Easter Sunday this young man walked into church one his own without the assistance of a cane or walker. May we never stop believing in a God who can work miracles and change lives!
 
It has been great to hear your stories and updates about Easter Sunday. But don’t just wait for special days to share what God is doing in your congregation. We want you to know that we love to hear updates about how God is at work in your church and community. Send your stories to office@crossroadsdistrict.org so we can celebrate with you.  

​You are invited to join us at The Crossroads District Conference which will be held on Friday, June 21 and Saturday, June 22 at the Phillippe Performing Arts Center on the campus of Indiana Wesleyan University. 

Our Celebration of Ministry Service, where we ordain new ministers and honor those ministers who are retiring, will be held on Friday, June 21 at 7:00 pm. All ordained ministers in the Crossroads District will gather at 6:30 pm for pictures and to line up for the processional into the service. 

Our Annual Business Session will be held on Saturday, June 22, 9 am to 4 pm. We will spend time in worship and hear vision updates from our General and District Superintendents. We will also elect officers and discuss General Conference memorials. 

The theme for this year’s conference is Multiply. Together, we will be exploring the multiplication of services, campuses, and new kingdom communities as a key strategy in closing the “Gospel Gap” in our region. 

You can stay up to date on the conference details, including the conference schedule, delegate information, lodging options, and more at the conference site:
http://conference.crossroadsdistrict.org. 

End of the Fiscal Year Approaching

As a reminder, the end of the fiscal year for Crossroads District churches is April 30, 2019. All year-end reports are due by May 15, 2019. CSF payments for the 2018-2019 fiscal must be received by May 10, 2019, in order to be recorded for the current fiscal year. All payments received after May 10 will be recorded for the next fiscal year.

If you have questions or if you need assistance with year-end reports, please contact Roxene Lo in the district office (roxene@crossroadsdistrict.org or 765.674.8593).

Thanks in advance for your prompt attention and timely submission of your reports!

​Do you wish your outreach ministry, both locally and globally, was more intentional?

The Festival on Outreach will be a great opportunity for your whole team to network and interact with other churches, Global Partners, World Hope, and World Gospel Mission and learn how to go beyond projects to building missional partnerships. 

The Festival on Outreach will be held on May 20-21, 2019 at College Wesleyan Church. Cost is $35 or $25 for groups 5 and over. We hope you can attend this great event, you will leave inspired and challenged  

Register now at  www.collegewes.com/festival.

This week’s team update is a guest post by Chris Williams, one of the Assistant District Superintendents in the Crossroads District.

Celebrating the Resurrection

Yesterday, Christians all over the world celebrated Easter, the victory of God over the evil one. As Christ-followers, we celebrate the resurrection because it is the day when death, hell, and the grave were defeated and victory was made possible for us through Jesus Christ.

Some of our Crossroads District churches have been reporting on what God did yesterday as their congregation celebrated the resurrection and lifted up the person of Jesus. Here are a few of the reports we’ve received in the district office:
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• Tipton Trinity launched their Kokomo campus yesterday. The Trinity team has been busy the last few months renovating the Kokomo facility and they were excited to welcome 98 people to the first service in the new space. Across the two campuses, they had 433 in attendance, baptized 6, and had 18 decisions for Christ.

• Brinker Heights in Marion had 7 people make commitments to Christ.
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• Eastview, with campuses in Gas City and Jonesboro, had 475 in attendance with 6 new professions of faith. Eastview is celebrating 19 people coming to faith during the month of April!

​We’d love to hear updates about what happened at your church as you lifted up Christ on Easter Sunday. Send your celebration stories to chris@crossroadsdistrict.org.  

End of the Fiscal Year Approaching

As a reminder, the end of the fiscal year for Crossroads District churches is April 30, 2019. All year-end reports are due by May 15, 2019. CSF payments for the 2018-2019 fiscal must be received by May 10, 2019, in order to be recorded for the current fiscal year. All payments received after May 10 will be recorded for the next fiscal year.

If you have questions or if you need assistance with year-end reports, please contact Roxene Lo in the district office (roxene@crossroadsdistrict.org or 765.674.8593).

Thanks in advance for your prompt attention and timely submission of your reports!

​The Festival on Outreach will be held on May 20-21, 2019 at College Wesleyan Church. Cost is $35 or $25 for groups 5 and over. We hope you can attend this great event, you will leave inspired and challenged.

Register now at  www.collegewes.com/festival.

Continue to Pray for Ministers Recovering from Surgery

Rev. Tim McClellan, the senior pastor at Lakeview Church in Marion, had surgery last week to remove cancer. He is still in the hospital recovering from surgery and waiting to learn the next steps of his treatment plan. Please continue to lift up Pastor Tim, Cynthia, and the Lakeview congregation during this time.

Rev. Chuck McCallum, a retired minister in the Crossroads District and former pastor of Westview Wesleyan Church in Jonesboro, had surgery on Saturday to correct a 90% blockage they found in his carotid artery. The surgery was successful and Rev. McCallum is likely to be released from the hospital early this week. Your continued prayers are appreciated.

​After a restful Sabbath on Monday, I was refreshed to hit the road again on Tuesday beginning in Marion with our staff meeting, then a budget meeting, and interviewing a prospective candidate for one of our churches. I met with Pastor David Cox (Laketon Wesleyan) in Warsaw for our annual coaching conversation. Suzanne, David’s wife and ministry partner, was able to join us. I’m grateful for these bi-vocational leaders who are making a big difference in a small community.
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My next stop was at Beaver Creek Wesleyan Church (just outside South Bend) as they commence their search for a bi-vocational pastor. Following the LBA meeting, I met with Rev. Steve Runyon who has been serving effectively as their supply pastor. This was my final coaching conversation with Pastor Steve before he and Nancy move to Michigan to build their retirement home. The church has been making a comeback under Pastor Steve’s leadership, doubling in attendance over the past 3 years. Pray that God will direct the search process at Beaver Creek and provide the pastor to build on this progress.

​Wednesday morning, I met with Pastor Johnnie Blair (Tipton Trinity) for our annual conversation. The ministry of Tipton Trinity is expanding with the addition of the Kokomo Trinity Wesleyan as a part of their network. They’re in the middle of renovations in Kokomo, so Pastor Blair and I dropped in to check on the progress. My next appointment was with a prospective candidate for another one of our churches. I’m grateful for the leaders who are joining the Crossroads District team in our mission.

My final appointment on Wednesday was in Frankfort with Rev. Harold Henson, pastor at Colfax Wesleyan Church. Angie, his wife and ministry partner, was able to join us for this coaching conversation. It’s been a busy first year for the Henson’s as Harold graduated from Wesley Seminary with his M.Div last April, began serving at Colfax Wesleyan last summer, and they’ve just recently moved into their new home.

The highlight of Thursday was the Conference Action Committee meeting. Our team engaged in meaningful and productive dialogue. They recommended four action items. Copies of these recommendations will be forwarded to our delegates on May 23 for their consideration at district conference, on June 22.

Assistant DS Chris Williams and I met on Friday morning for review and planning and then I met with Seth Bye, our Executive Ministry Partner in the afternoon. Pastor Matthew Trexler, Assistant DS for Region 1 and Vice-Chair of the District Board of Administration, met over lunch for my annual performance review. (Thank you to each pastor who took time to respond to this helpful feedback opportunity.)
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​Also on Friday, the Heartland Region superintendents and staff met via ZOOM to continue the planning for the 2020 Heartland Regional Gathering in Pigeon Forge (March 10-12). Registration will open up on August 1 and the early bird fee will be only $300 for a couple. This event will also include a programming track for children. Hold the date on your calendar and stay tuned for more details at district conference.
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Friday evening, Sherry and I hosted pastors and spouses from the Madison County Zone. Two of these four pastoral couples are new in their roles so it was good to share this time of fellowship, laughter and prayer with these colleagues in ministry.

​Saturday was a special time for our Crossroads District team as Dr. Jim Lo and our intercession team welcomed pastors and lay leaders to our inaugural prayer retreat. We shared in a concert of prayer for the first hour and then moved into more specific areas of intercession in the second hour, including anointing with oil for special requests. The dominant theme of our prayer time was the Easter weekend opportunity for evangelism.
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We also discussed developing prayer gatherings in each of our regions from 2 or more times each year and the opportunity to take a busload of leaders to Brooklyn Tabernacle this fall for their Tuesday evening prayer gathering (you can learn more about that by reading Rev. Jim Cymbala’s book “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire.”) Thank you to Dr. Lo and his leadership team and to Mrs. Angela Spangler and her team at Fairmount Camp who were gracious hosts for this gathering.

​Please send praise reports and pictures from your Easter outreach ministry to our office email address so that Rev. Chris Williams can share these celebration notes in the team updates that he’ll be writing while I’m away on vacation. (Please see the note below.)

Thank you for answering God’s call to advance His Kingdom!

Your servant in Christ,

Mark Gorveatte

Crossroads District Superintendent

SPECIAL NOTE FOR CROSSROADS DISTRICT LEADERS:

Sherry and I will be away celebrating our 35th anniversary, departing on Tuesday, April 16, and returning on Sunday, May 5. We will be turning off our phones for the duration and will have only intermittent access to our email. We are looking forward to this vacation break and are taking seriously the advice of those who encouraged us to totally unplug. Rev. Trexler will be chairing the DBA in my absence and Rev. Chris Williams will be leading the district office team over the next 3 weeks while I’m out of the country. I’m confident that our district staff will serve you with excellence in our absence. Thank you in advance for completing your year-end reports on time!