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,
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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!

​While their building has three floors, their main floor worship space could become a limiting factor so they opened up a worship service at 9:15 to accommodate future growth. Combined, they welcomed 112 people yesterday morning (lya= 59) with 7 first-time guests. (The most cost-efficient expansion project at any church is adding another service. Is that an option you’re discussing with your team?)
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My next stop was in Pendleton to check in with Pastor Joe Deckard and the team at Waterline’s new campus. I arrived in time to be part of the preview worship experience that they offer for their volunteers. I connected with Joe as they prepared to welcome 100 people who worshiped at the Grand Opening service.

​Special thanks to General Superintendent Dr. Wayne Schmidt for jumping in as part of that special day. Praise the Lord that two people prayed to receive Christ yesterday and 5 new believers are scheduled for Easter baptism. Congratulation to Pastors John & Danielle Freed and Waterline Church for their multiplication vision and generosity!
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My last stop of the morning was in Jonesboro at the new campus of Eastview Wesleyan Church. Many of you will remember that Jonesboro Main Street Wesleyan voted last year to discontinue their ministry and to reach out to Pastor Mark Atkinson and the Eastview team to consider launching a campus in that location. Assistant Pastor Noah Farmer is leading the team of volunteers at this site and they welcomed 47 in worship yesterday.

​That’s just a snapshot of the creative ways in which churches in our Crossroads District are envisioning multiplication opportunities. We cannot expect a different level of results when we keep doing the same things over and over again. What next step of faith might God be calling your church to take in making more and better disciples?

Sunday evening, I met with the LBA at Monon Wesleyan Church as they commence their search for a part-time pastor to lead a turnaround for this ministry. Monon is a small rural community with a growing Hispanic population. Please join them in praying that God will direct them in the leadership transition.
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Last week began with a quick trip on Monday to Davis Wesleyan Church near Hamlet (northwest of Plymouth) to meet with Pastor Matthew Ohime and their leadership team. Pastor Ohime has been serving as interim (supply) pastor this year and the church is making new strides. They voted 18-1 on Sunday to enter into Developing Church status as part of an intentional revitalization project. Pastor Ohime received a 21-0 recommendation to be appointed as their pastor to lead this project.

​Rev. Chris Williams, our Assistant DS, will be leading a Maximizing Impact team for a consultation at Davis Wesleyan later in June. Pray that God will honor their passion to reach their rural community for Christ.

Tuesday morning, I met with Pastor Tim McClellan and the staff at Marion Lakeview Wesleyan Church as he shared the sobering news of a recent cancer diagnosis. Pastor Tim also shared with the Lakeview congregation yesterday morning. He has additional tests this week before his doctors determine his treatment plan. We are joining Tim and Cynthia in prayer and believing that our Great Physician will be glorified in this journey.
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After our weekly Tuesday morning office staff meeting at The Abbey Coffee, I met with a prospective church planter in Noblesville who welcomed a conversation about potential partnership with The Wesleyan Church.

​Wednesday morning, I was able to worship at the IWU chapel service and hear Dr. Jim Lo preach a message on spiritual warfare. I was encouraged to learn that IWU has scheduled Dr. Lo to teach a credit course (REL-488) on Spiritual Warfare this fall. Classes will be held Monday evenings (6:15-8:15) and there will be an option to audit the course.

Pastor Matthew Stewart (Sweetser Wesleyan) and I met over lunch for our annual coaching conversation and then I met with Pastor Allen Laws on Wednesday afternoon for our coaching conversation in Warren.
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Thursday and Friday, I had the privilege of representing our Crossroads District as a member of the Indiana Wesleyan University Board of Trustees. One of the highlights was the devotional shared by Coach Greg Tonagel, head of the men’s basketball program.

​Dr. David Wright, our president, is a wonderful leader who does an amazing job of navigating IWU through the challenges of Christian higher education in an increasingly hostile environment. I appreciate the focus that Dr. Wright and his team have been giving to make sure that faculty and staff fit the mission of IWU. They have recently updated the rigorous interview process to ensure that all new employees embrace the beliefs and values that we hold dear. Please keep President Wright and IWU in your prayers and support our college in every way that you can!
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On Saturday, more than 200 lay leaders and pastors from the Crossroads District gathered at Brookhaven Wesleyan Church for ReEquip 2019. We were blessed by our keynote speakers Dr. David Smith and Rev. Mike Hilson (NewLife Network). There were wonderful breakout sessions on multiethnic ministry, children, youth, worship and discipleship. The Branch Coffee Shop (Fairmount Wesleyan) catered a delicious meal.

Pastor Josh Lavender and his team from Indianapolis Trinity Wesleyan led us in heartfelt worship. Pastor Tony Bye and the team at Brookhaven were incredible hosts for the event. Special thanks to Pastor Amanda Blair and her leadership team who worked hard to create and produce this impactful and affordable learning experience for our lay leaders and pastors!

This Saturday, April 13, you’re invited to join us for our Crossroads District Spring Prayer Gathering. Dr. Jim Lo and his team will lead this meeting at Fairmount Camp. We’ll begin at 10:00 and a free lunch is provided. While the sessions will conclude after lunch, the campground will be available for you to continue in prayer as we prepare for Easter.
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​Keep on making a difference in the cause that counts for eternity!

Your servant in Christ,

Mark Gorveatte

Crossroads District Superintendent
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Calendar Notes:

June 4 – Rediscovering our Holiness Heritage with Rev. Dan LeRoy at Wesley Seminary

June 21-22 – Ordination and District Conference at Indiana Wesleyan University

March 10-12 (2020) – Heartland Region Gathering at Pigeon Forge, TN

​Last Monday, I joined Dr. Wayne Schmidt, GS, and District Superintendent colleagues for a Zoom meeting. Dr. Schmidt is a wonderful encourager and takes time each month to connect with superintendents through this online forum. He shared an update on the progress in selling the property and revisioning Hephzibah for a new season in resourcing Wesleyan churches and families to serve vulnerable children. Hephzibah’s board has elected a new chair, Rev. Anita Eastlack, and hired a new Executive Director, Jodi Lewis, R.N., who has been leading a ministry like this at Kentwood Community Church (Grand Rapids, MI) for more than a decade. This week’s WesLife e-newsletter will have details. Continue to pray for and support Hephzibah!
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The Wesley Seminary Board met at Indiana Wesleyan University on Tuesday. While these are challenging times for all of higher education, Wesley Seminary was able to report increased enrollment for the year, with growth in their M.A. programs and the new Doctor of Ministry degrees. Wesley Seminary now offers the MDiv fully online and is one of only a handful of accredited seminaries who are also able to offer their degrees in Spanish. Rev. Stan Hoover has effectively chaired this board since the seminary was founded and at this, his final meeting, he prayed over Rev. Phill Tague who is succeeding him as chair. Pray for Dr. Colleen Derr as she leads the seminary into a bright future.

​Wednesday, I was on the road for coaching conversations with Rev. Jarod Osborne (Warsaw Pathway Church), Rev. Greg Holmes (South Bend Sonlight Fellowship) and with Rev. Terry Vaughn (South Bend The Bridge Urban Church). Before heading home, Pastor Terry and I dropped in on the midweek discipleship training they offer at the public library in downtown South Bend. I also had the opportunity to visit with Rev. Jose (Eliorgy) Guerrero on my way to South Bend. He is doing a wonderful job leading our Hispanic ministry expansion in the northern part of our Crossroads District.
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Thursday, morning, I met with Pastor Tim McClellan (Marion Lakeview) for our annual coaching conversation before joining the District Conference planning team meeting at Abbey Coffee. After lunch with that team, Rev. Amanda Blair convened our ReEquip steering committee for final logistics and a walkthrough at Brookhaven Wesleyan Church where we’ll be meeting this Saturday. I am really looking forward to this leadership training event for our pastors and lay leaders featuring Rev. Mike Hilson and Dr. David Smith. Last year, more than 200 joined us. Our team is ready to welcome you!

​Later Thursday afternoon, I met with Joel Hunt, Wesley Seminary’s Director of Advancement. We are excited to announce that Rev. Dan LeRoy will be a guest speaker at Wesley Seminary on Tuesday, June 4. Dan authored the book, Rediscovering our Holiness Heritage, and he will share from his lifetime perspective in the holiness movement. The evening session (7:00-8:30) will be free and open to public. Mark your calendar and plan to join us for this conversation about the present and future of the holiness movement.

Friday morning, I met with Assistant DS Williams for planning as we move into the final month of this conference year. I also had the opportunity to interview a prospective pastor over lunch before heading to Sweetser. This student will be graduating from IWU this spring and we discussed ministry opportunities in the Crossroads District.

I’m always encouraged to hear stories of life change and progress in our churches. Rev. Dale Munsell reported that Albion Cornerstone welcomed 12 new members and celebrated 3 baptisms this Sunday with 2 more baptisms scheduled for April!

​Thank you to each church who has already given to the Wesleyan Emergency Relief Fund established for the tragedy in Mozambique. Just a reminder that the Crossroads District Global Partners Fund is matching the first $10,000 in donations as we respond through Rev. Able Nove and our colleagues planting Wesleyan churches in Mozambique.

Our Crossroads District Spring Prayer Retreat is fast approaching. Join Dr. Jim Lo and our team of intercessors who will be leading us in prayer. I anticipate that we will have a special focus on evangelism as our churches prepare for outreach on Easter Sunday. We are meeting at Fairmount Camp on Saturday, April 13, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. with a free lunch included. Bring your prayer partners and specific requests for this time of calling on God. Prayer is not preparation for the battle, prayer is the battle!
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Register here.

​Thank you for all you do to advance the Kingdom!

Your servant in Christ,

Mark Gorveatte

Crossroads District Superintendent

P.S. All ministers under appointment in the Crossroads District will be receiving directions by email for completing this year’s online Annual Service Report. Our headquarters office made changes to improve this reporting so please follow the directions carefully.

​Before heading to Eastview, I dropped in at Exit Church, a ministry launched 14 years ago by our friends Darren & Nancy Campbell. Olivia Eckart, daughter of Rev. Jeff & Arriana Eckart, was preaching her last sermon as she wraps up her master’s degree in IWU’s Kern program. The future of the church is bright with emerging leaders like Olivia stepping out to answer God’s call to ministry.
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Last week began with a Monday meeting of our Region 1 leaders hosted by Pastor Matthew Trexler and the River Church team in Marion. Pastor David Dignal (Edgerton Wesleyan) and Pastor Mark Atkinson (Eastview) shared updates from the multiplication initiatives at their respective churches. We broke into groups for a productive conversation on trends and how they shape the context in which we minister. After the session, we continued the conversations and laughter over lunch at Casa Brava. I’m always encouraged to hear us sharing stories of bold vision and Kingdom-expanding faith from our front line leaders.

​Tuesday began with a meeting at IWU with Dr. Jim Lo, Mrs. Sue Wampner, and Dr. David Smith as they finalized plans for our spring Prayer Gathering, April 13 (Registration Link). I appreciate their willingness to adjust the schedule to a one-day event on Saturday to facilitate greater participation by lay leaders and bi-vocational pastors. We’ll be meeting for prayer at Fairmount Campground from 10-1 with a free lunch provided. Later on Tuesday, after our weekly office staff meeting at Abbey Coffee, Pastor Brian Scramlin and I met for our annual coaching conversation. Pastor Brian is teaching through Genesis and has been able to answer tough questions with wisdom and grace.

Wednesday morning, I met with one of our pastoral couples to explore possibilities for their upcoming sabbatical. I’m glad to be part of a denomination that provides a minimum of 30 days for sabbatical after every 7 years of service. For more information, check out this link: https://www.wesleyan.org/sabbaticals-learning-to-thrive and Sabbatical Policy example

Wednesday afternoon, church planter Rev. Marc Ulrich and I met in Merrillville. Marc and Heather are in their fourth year of planting ReThink Church. Church planting is never easy but they’ve encountered some unique challenges in a city that is heavily Catholic/Lutheran and skeptical of new ministries. They are sowing good seeds through community engagement and making disciples who are now reproducing. Keep these faithful church pioneers in your prayers!
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Thursday, I was on the road again for coaching conversations with Dr. Ollie Dongell (Plymouth Wesleyan) and Rev. Mike Cloud (The Cross in Rochester). One of the highlights of the day was having Dr. Dongell drive me past the four sites where Plymouth Wesleyan held services after its beginning from a revival service held back in the 1890s. Here’s a picture of the first building they constructed for worship.

​Each of those relocations required faith and sacrifice. Today, they minister to more than 600 people each weekend because of the previous generation’s faithfulness and vision.

Thursday evening, I met with the Local Board of Administration at Hartford City Wesleyan Church as they continue in their pastoral search process. They’ve received a large number of resumes and are prayerfully seeking God’s woman or man who will lead the church into the next chapter of ministry.

Friday morning, I met with Dr. Robert Hallett, founder of TLC Ministries, to explore future opportunities to leverage his experience in stewardship development for our Crossroads District churches. Dr. Hallett is semi-retired near Hartford City and would be available to partner with your church in capital campaigns or pulpit supply.

Friday afternoon, I represented the Crossroads District at the funeral of Rev. Dr. Robert McIntyre, General Superintendent Emeritus. Pastor Tim McClellan and the team at Marion Lakeview Wesleyan graciously hosted this celebration of Dr. McIntyre’s life and ministry. Dr. Norman Wilson preached the message and Rev. Chad McCallum shared a powerful tribute built around the theme “But I called him, Grandpa.”
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Friday evening, I had the privilege of hosting Rev. Joshe Bose, National Director of The Wesleyan Church in Bangladesh, and Dr. Richard Schenck for supper in Noblesville. It was good to hear more of their plans for the future in our continued partnership with the Crossroads District. Rev. Bose will be returning to Indiana in April for his graduation from Wesley Seminary. We are planning to take another team to Bangladesh in the coming conference year so let us know if you’d be interested in this vision tour.

​Saturday morning, several of our bivocational pastors joined me at The Branch in Fairmount for a meeting designed for those who have responsibilities that preclude their participation in our weekday events. Special thanks to Pastor Jeff Luedtke and his team for hosting this meeting and catering our lunch.

Saturday afternoon, I was in Muncie to meet with Rev. Victor and Rev. Claudia Silva who lead Casa del Alfarero, the Hispanic Wesleyan Church in Richmond. I am grateful for their leadership and commitment to reaching their community for Christ.
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My last stop of the day was at Rising Hope Church’s remodeling project. Rev. John Wiest and more than a dozen volunteers from Indianapolis Trinity jumped in to help with the project. Several of Rising Hope’s congregation that are students at Ball State University also showed up for the work day. The team is excited to finish up this project in the next few weeks so they can move from the middle school into their permanent home. Thank you to each of our churches who are praying, giving and volunteering to help this new church get off the ground!

​Registrations for ReEquip 2019 are running ahead of last year. There’s still time to sign up and bring your lay leaders for inspiration and ministry training in the breakout sessions for youth, children, worship and multicultural ministries. Spanish language translation services will be provided. (Se prestarán servicios de traducción al español.)

http://www.reequipconference.org/

Thank you for all you do to advance the Kingdom!

Your servant in Christ,

Mark Gorveatte

Crossroads District Superintendent

​Sunday evening, I met with the LBA at Gas City Southside Wesleyan Church as they voted unanimously to recommend an extended call for Pastor Brent Miller. Pastor Brent and Naomi are making a difference in turning the church outward to serving Gas City.

Last Monday, after completing the Team Update, I was in Marion to check in with Roxene Lo at her office and then I met with a prospective church planter over lunch. Tuesday morning, I met with our district staff at Abbey Coffee and then connected with Pastor Mark Atkinson in Gas City for our annual coaching conversation. Pastor Andy Cole, Tim Johnson and I met in Anderson for an update on the revitalization project that he’s leading at Lapel Daybreak. Tim is a key leader serving alongside Pastor Andy. It was an encouraging progress report of how the church is rebounding and will be adding an additional worship service leading up to Easter Sunday. Tuesday evening, I met with Pastor Calimerio Rodriguez (Frankfort Templo de Poder) and a prospective church planter in Frankfort. Pray that God will open the right door for a possible Hispanic church planter in Lafayette.
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Wednesday morning, I was in Fishers to met with Chris Classen, the new executive pastor at McCordsville Harvest Church. Pastor John Freed (Waterline Church) and I met over lunch for our annual coaching conversation. These are exciting days at Waterline as they’ve successfully launched their first campus in Pendleton. Pastor John Miller and I met in Avon for an update on the progress of planting Way City Church and then I met with a young pastor who is prayerfully considering coming into The Wesleyan Church. My last meeting on Wednesday was with Pastor Neftali Lopez as we signed some property documents for Carmel Amistad Iglesia Wesleyana.

​Thursday morning, I joined Rev. Williams, Assistant DS, at Plymouth Wesleyan Church as Chris led the Region 3 spring gathering. Dr. Ollie Dongell and his team are always gracious hosts for this gathering and there was a strong showing of pastors from across the region. Pastor Johnnie Blair brought an inspiring update on the progress they’re making at Tipton Trinity as the church has refocused on the Harvest and is preparing to launch their first campus in Kokomo.

Thursday afternoon, I was back in Marion to meet with Rev. Juden Sia, one of the district superintendents of the Zambia Wesleyan Church. My last meeting of the day was with Rev. Ben Parker and the LBA at Fairmount Back Creek Wesleyan Church. The LBA unanimously affirmed Rev. Parker’s extended call. I also dropped in to see their “Dinner & A Movie” event that they were hosting in their fellowship hall. This has become a positive opportunity for connecting the families in their church and inviting guests.
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Friday morning, I connected with Rev. Paul James, lead consultant, and the Maximizing Impact team who were in serving at Albion Cornerstone Wesleyan Church. Pastor Dale Munsell and his team received the team’s report on Sunday morning and Rev. Chris Williams, Assistant DS, will be back in two weeks to host their town hall meeting.

Friday afternoon, I met with Rev. Kory Christensen at New Haven Impact Church for our annual coaching conversation. Impact Church is one of our younger congregations and I was encouraged to hear more about their commitment to discipleship and significant community engagement.
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​Friday evening, Sherry joined me as we attended the Senior Adult Ministry (SAM) Banquet at Tipton Trinity Wesleyan Church. They had a great turnout for the meal and special presentation by Gary Varvel, awarding winning editorial cartoonist. Congratulations to Randall Hudson and his team for hosting this wonderful event.

Saturday morning, I was able to connect briefly with Pastor John & Danielle Freed in Fishers as they led our Church Planters Boot Camp hosted at Wesleyan Headquarters. John and Danielle do a great job leading prospective planters through this strategic planning process.
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Dr. Richard Schenck and the Region 2 DBMD were also meeting on Saturday so I joined them in the afternoon for licensed minister interviews at the Indiana Wesleyan University North Indy campus. We have amazing leaders answering God’s call to ministry and I am grateful for the many DBMD team members who invest significant time and energy in this important development process.

​Highlights this week will include the Region 1 meeting on Monday morning at The River Church in Marion led by Pastor Matthew Trexler, Assistant DS. It’s always encouraging to connect with our pastors and hear the stories of how God is moving to change lives.

I’m also looking forward to hosting a connection event for our BiVo (Bi-vocational) pastors on Saturday morning, March 23, at the Branch Coffee Shop in Fairmount (from 10:30 to 1, with lunch provided). Many of our pastors have additional employment responsibilities that preclude their participation in weekday gatherings so this is an opportunity for them to gather for fellowship, encouragement, learning, and support. If you’re planning to join us and still need to RSVP, please email Seth@CrossroadsDistrict.org).

I received notice of the unanimous vote at Lifeway Wesleyan Church in Fort Wayne for another 4-year call for Rev. Rick Fletcher to continue as senior pastor and a 98% positive vote for Rev. Andrew Jellison to become Associate Pastor in the LBA-recommended succession plan. Congratulations to both Pastor Rick and Pastor Andy on this strong vote of affirmation of their ministry and future transition.

​Congratulations also to Rev. Dr. Jim Dunn, a ministerial member of our Crossroads District team, on his selection by the Board of Trustees to become the next president of Oklahoma Wesleyan University. Dr. Dunn will be the sixth president of OKWU as he succeeds Dr. Everett Piper this summer. I have every confidence that Dr. Dunn will do a terrific job at OKWU building on the amazing turnaround led by Dr. Piper.

Our prayers and sympathies are extended to the family of Rev. Art O’Dell who passed away on March 15. Rev. O’Dell was Rev. Mark Schnell’s father-in-law.  Mark and Sharie, Art’s daughter, serve our Albion Wesleyan Church. Here’s the link for Art’s obituary and the funeral arrangements for the services to be held later this week in Michigan:
https://www.lashleyfuneralhome.com/obituary/dennis-arthur-art-odell

​Keep on making a difference in the cause that counts!

Your servant in Christ,

Mark Gorveatte

Crossroads District Superintendent

P.S. Don’t miss out on ReEquip 2019, April 6 at Brookhaven Church! Register here