Tag: nazarene

How to STOP the 2030’s from Becoming the Decade of Death for Many Churches

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

The church I attended as a child is closed.
The church my wife’s family attended is closed.
The church where my brother was first a pastor is closed.
The church of my first pastorate nearly closed too. There were only five people. It was as close to death as a church can be. But through, God’s grace, it’s coming to life once more. Praise the Lord (and thank you Pastors Rich and Missy Evans!)

Churches don’t have to die.

In post-World War II America, the 1950s was a booming birth decade for many churches. We were all out for souls (thank you JB Chapman), planting churches left and right even in places like Bad Axe, Michigan. But jump ahead 75 years to our post Christian America and ask, “will the 2030s become the decade of death for many churches?”

Perhaps it shouldn’t surprise us. Churches, like people, have a life cycle. Left unchanged, many will live about four score years—eighty years or so—and then slowly fade away. 

We have options. We can sit quietly like a family gathered around Grandma’s bedside, holding hands and humming old hymns while another church slips away? Or we can say, “Not on my watch.” Not today. That means:

We begin with prayer.
Open my eyes to people who are hurting.
Let me see the wanderers.
The lost and the lonely.
Like Isaiah, help us say, “Here am I. Send me.”
Help me to step outside my comfort zone.
Let me love people.
All people.
Not with a bait-and-switch kind of love.
Not a “love your soul but not you” kind of love.
Really love them.
Serve them.
Listen to them.
Hope they see Jesus in me.
Earn the privilege of sharing Jesus.
Then help me to do it again tomorrow.
And the next day.
Invite the new believers to join me.
In parks.
In workplaces.
In schools.
In neighborhoods.
Wherever God places us
It’s called building His Church.
“The gates of hell shall not prevail against it” is the promise from Jesus.
Let’s stop acting like we’re planning a funeral.
It’s time to celebrate a rebirth.
No more dirges.
Sing a new song.
It’s happening in Bad Axe, Michigan.
It can happen in your church!
Let the 2030’s be the decade of re-birth, renewal, resuscitating the barely alive and even resurrecting the dead. 

Believe in a wonder working God!

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:19

Is NYC (Nazarene Youth Conference) the Best Event Hosted by the Church of the Nazarene? 

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

This was my first Nazarene Youth Conference (NYC). My blog about attending NYC prior to the event is here. As a veteran of exactly one NYC, here are a few random observations:

  • There were other old people at NYC. It wasn’t just youth and youth workers. District Superintendents, vendors, college representatives and assorted grey heads (like yours truly) were present and accounted for. 
  • The students that I encountered either in the convention venue or in the hotel or restaurants were all kind, polite and a true blessing. We can be very hopeful concerning the next generation. 
  • The old people (like me) that I encountered all had good attitudes too. I heard no complaints about the music being too loud or the students being too rowdy. No one yelled, “Get off my lawn.”  I love it when various generations love one another.
  • The currency of NYC is not cash or credit. It’s t-shirts. T-shirts were traded left and right. Each district had its own t-shirt, and the colleges also were giving out freebies.  From my vantage point the most coveted (can I say people were covetous at a holiness event?) was the Eastern Michigan District hockey jersey. Canada, Hawaii and Prairie Lakes were also in the running for the champion t-shirt. 
  • Ten thousand youth (and the smattering of old people) worshipping and praising Jesus was pretty great.
  • The speakers were engaging and most connected well with the students. 
  • It takes a lot of planning to put on such an event. NYI gets a big “Great Job Everybody!!” congratulatory award!

NYC became a community of grace and kindness and worship and service (the students all had a serve day during the event). All this to say, NYC is probably the best event hosted by the Church of the Nazarene.

Of course, the question becomes: Can other Nazarene events (General Assembly, M-29, even camp meetings and district assemblies) learn from NYC?  Is it possible for the other gatherings to have the same devotion and commitment and holiness and zeal? 

I hate to write what’s coming. You might hate to read it. Here goes: Old people need to learn from young people. No one was jockeying for position (unless it was to get a t-shirt). There were no church politics. No grumpiness. No phoniness. No “we-haven’t-done-it-that-way” attitudes. No sacred cows that had to be observed. None of the students that I observed, seemed to be worried about others noticing their devotion or expression of faithfulness. They were singing and leaning into a holy devotion that would have made Phineas F Bresee proud. 

I pray that we old timers at our next Nazarene gathering can likewise live out the holiness we say we believe. Let’s make our gatherings less like a political convention and more like NYC. Less like a fashion show, and more like NYC. Less like a funeral procession and more like NYC. Less look at me, and more look to Jesus (in other words).

Questions from an Old Guy Going to His First NYC (Nazarene Youth Conference not New York City)

On By Rob Prince3 Comments

At age 62, I am attending my first Nazarene Youth Conference. Lo those many years ago, when I was a teenager, this event was called the World Youth Conference. Only a select number of students attended. Entire youth groups didn’t go. To be selected, prospective attendees memorized scripture and then recited the Bible passages at an interview. The moment the words “memorizing scripture” and “recite at an interview” were uttered, was the day my 14-year-old self said, “I’d rather spend my summer playing baseball than traveling with a bunch of strangers to Estes Park, Colorado.”  

Both of my boys attended NYC (no scripture memorization required). Alex to St. Louis and Ben went to Louisville (twice). Now it’s my turn. I’m heading to Salt Lake City. I’ll be representing Nazarene Bible College, as well as the new Pastoral Center I’m helping create. I hope to rub shoulders with some fellow old-timers as I begin laying the groundwork for the Center.

Still, I have questions.

What does an old guy wear to a youth conference? It’s going to be hot. Mid-90s hot. Can an old guy wear shorts? I’m not trying to look cool; I’m trying to be cool (as in not hot).

I’ve also been told that I can’t recruit among the youth pastors and young adults attending the event. Recruit them to what? The Center doesn’t have a name or logo. I’m not handing out swag or candy or brochures. I don’t have an event to promote. No recruiting? No worries.

As one of the oldest guys at a youth event, am I obligated to yell, “Hey, you rotten kids, get off the lawn!”? None of the lawns belong to me. Why would I care who walks on them?

Since we’re going to Salt Lake City, will I be impressed by Great Salt Lake? I’m from Michigan. We have Great Lakes. Plural. None of them are salty. Impressed?  Probably not.

Another question: Do I have to eat green Jell-O while I’m in Utah? Fun fact: Utah consumes more Jell-O than anywhere else in America. Green Jell-O has practically achieved state-symbol status. Nevertheless, I will probably pass.

Here’s my real question. Will we hear from God?

That’s the only thing that matters. More than the concerts, speakers, crowds or activities. Will we hear from the Lord? 

So let me ask a few more questions:
Will you join me in praying for that end?
Will you pray that thousands of students encounter God in a powerful way?
Will you ask the Lord to pour out His Holy Spirit on this gathering?
Will you pray that young men and women hear and answer God’s call to ministry?
Will you pray that NYC 2027 becomes more than an event—that it becomes a spiritual movement that impacts not only our young people but our entire church?

And while you’re at it, pray that this old guy doesn’t do anything worthy of receiving an “Old Geezer Award.” I’d like to come home without that dubious distinction.

Acronyms and the Nazarene Ecosystem

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Nearly 13 years ago, I left Mecca (Nazarene Version… aka Lenexa, Kansas) to pastor a church in Michigan. One thing I learned during my stint in the heart of Nazarene-dom (other than rubbing shoulders with the good people who love Jesus and the Church of the Nazarene) is that these people love acronyms too. Maybe a glossary should be distributed in membership class for the various abbreviations in the Nazarene world—it’s more than WEF, NMI, NDI, and NYI. Much, much more. Now, I’m back in Mecca. I’m going to have to re-learn the Nazarene abbreviated speak. 

Here’s my effort to fit back in:

ICYMI the BGS gave approval for me to lead the CPE* for NBC (not ONU, MNU or any other schools under the IBOE watch). The FAQ is what will the CPE* do? FYI, it’s about helping pastors. NGL, I’m not a VIP, certainly not the GOAT and it’s not DIY project. I’ll need help from GSs, RDs, DSs (especially those in USA/Canada). BTW, you might see me at PALCON, NYC, a DA and for sure at GA27. RN, I’m learning. LMK if you can help me. 

AFAIK I will be working at the GMC. ASAP. FWIW IMO my ETA at the GMC is in about 2 weeks. TBH IDK and IDC what the delay is, but I’m OMW! My office space is TBD. Put my desk next to NDI, NMI, NYI even by NCM, and I’m good. W/E. ATTS, I’m OOO, but NFL.

TIA. G2G TTYL. LOL

P.S. My BFFs at SD say don’t forget WEF

Translation (acronym used in bold) for the non-Nazarenes in the crowd:  

In case you missed it, the Board of General Superintendents gave approval for me to lead the Center for Pastoral Excellence* for the Nazarene Bible College (not Olivet Nazarene University, MidAmerica Nazarene University or any other schools under the International Board of Education watch). The frequently asked question is what will the Center for Pastoral Excellence* do? For your information, it’s about helping pastors. Not gonna lie, I’m not a very important person, certainly not the greatest of all time, and it’s not a do-it-yourself project. I’ll need help from General Superintendents, Regional Directors, District Superintendents (especially those in the United States of America and Canada). By the way, you might see me at Pastors and leaders conference, Nazarene youth conference, a District Assembly and for sure at General Assembly in 2027.  Right now, I’m learning. Let me know if you can help me. 

As far as I know I will be working at the Global Ministry Center. As soon as possible. For what it’s worth, in my opinion my estimated time of arrival at the Global Ministry Center is in about 2 weeks. To be honest, I don’t know and I don’t care what the delay is, but I’m on my way. My office space is to be determined. Put my desk next to Nazarene Discipleship International, Nazarene Missions International, Nazarene Youth international or even by Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, and I’m good. Whatever. All this to say, I’m out of office, but not for long. 

Thanks in advance. Got to go, talk to you later! Laugh out loud.

Post Script: my best friends forever at Stewardship Development say don’t forget the World Evangelism Fund.

You know, I think I’ll fit in very nicely!**

*There’s not an official name for the Center for Pastoral Excellence. 

**53 abbreviations used. Yup, I’m a Nazarene in good standing!

Thoughts from the Nazarene Theological Seminary Graduation 

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

The Nazarene Theological Seminary graduation on Saturday included all the familiar elements of such an occasion. “Pomp and Circumstance” played as the graduates processed. Academic regalia filled the room. There were moments of gravity and moments of levity. The commencement address was excellent—Dr. David Busic preached a thoughtful and engaging sermon, drawing creatively from the not-exactly-biblical text of “Humpty Dumpty.” Diplomas were awarded, families beamed with pride, and cheers rose with each name called. In many ways, it was exactly what one would expect from a graduation ceremony.

And yet, a few things stood out to me.

First, the seminary is no doubt the most diverse institution in the Church of the Nazarene. Racially it’s diverse. There were as many—if not more—graduates of color as there were caucasian graduates. Gender-wise, it’s diverse. There were as many female graduates as male. Maybe more. Denominationally, it’s diverse. It appeared that a significant number of those graduating were not Nazarenes. All of these facts are vastly different from the NTS that I attended in the late 80s. Back then, there were a handful of female and non-Nazarenes students and even less black students.

Second, there were roughly as many doctoral graduates as master of Divinity graduates. This raises an important question about our priorities in graduate theological education within the Church of the Nazarene. Neither group had over 20 graduates. A broader restructuring of graduate ministerial education is underway, and perhaps these numbers will shift in the years ahead. Also notably, there are more graduate theological education options (even within the Church of the Nazarene) than when I was a student. Maybe looking at the number of NTS graduates does not tell the whole story of Nazarene graduate theological education. Still, it seems that the number is woefully low. 

Third, I found myself wondering how many of those graduating either are, or intend to become, Nazarene pastors. Again, if less than half of the students are Nazarene, and if less than half of those students (that’s a guess) are planning on being pastors—those numbers should give us pause. There may be a variety of reasons for this, including, in some circles, a diminished confidence in the seminary or even in higher education more broadly. Regardless, the need remains clear: in these challenging times, it is essential for the church to have a well-educated clergy—men and women who can think deeply, communicate clearly, faithfully articulate our theology and mission and serve wholeheartedly in their communities. 

My new role of creating a Center for pastoral excellence through the Nazarene Bible College is not focused on graduate-level education. Instead, it centers on those at either end of the journey—those who may have completed their education (in some cases years ago) and those just beginning to explore a call to ministry. My work is about encouraging and equipping individuals wherever they may be along the ministerial pathway. Still, I cannot ignore a growing concern: are we adequately preparing our clergy for the realities they will face? Are we cultivating the depth of thought, theological grounding, and resilience that ministry today demands? In an unholy world, don’t we need more holiness pastors/preachers not less? If the “fields still white unto harvest” and if God is still calling men and women into pastoral ministry, where are these individuals? Are they not listening? Has something happened (or not happened) in between sensing a call and preparing and then fulfilling that call?

These are questions worth asking—and answering—together. In other words, we’ve got our work cut out for ourselves.

The Next Chapter

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

Twelve and a half years ago, people kept asking me, “Why would you leave a great church like Central Church in Lenexa, Kansas to go to Flint, Michigan?”

Lenexa is a beautiful city with every amenity you could want. The church is practically in the back yard of the Global Ministry Center of the Church of the Nazarene. The pastor who preceded me is a General Superintendent. It was (and still is) a fantastic church. So why leave? Especially to a city that, at the time, carried the unwanted moniker of “murder capital of the United States” — complete with notoriously bumpy Michigan roads. 

Now, twelve and a half years later — after a water crisis, a global pandemic, and everything else the Enemy could throw at us (yes, the roads are still bumpy) — I’m hearing the same question again: “Why would you leave a great church like Flint Central? God has done such powerful things here — why leave now?”  

The answer is the same both times: We believe God is calling us to a new adventure. (Honesty alert: Having our grandkids living close by in Kansas didn’t hurt in the decision making process. The Lord is good.)

This next chapter involves working through the Nazarene Bible College to launch a new pastoral training center — one still waiting for the right name. Its purpose is clear: to come alongside struggling, isolated, and lonely pastors with a simple message — “We are here for you.”  The vision is to encourage, equip, shape, and form a new generation of evangelistic holiness preachers — then mobilize them into a world that desperately needs the hope of Jesus. We want to help District Superintendents identify and release dynamic, fire-in-their-bones pastors ready to step into fields that are still “white unto harvest.”

I’m deeply honored to be on the ground floor of this effort. It’s incredibly exciting. The time for action is now. Simply put, we need courageous, on fire for Jesus pastors— more than ever. We aren’t looking for warm bodies to fill troubled pulpits. We need a God-empowered, Jesus-like, Spirit-filled army of men and women who are ready to answer the call. Whether it’s busy metropolises, small rural towns or the far corners of the earth (my first church was in Bad Axe, Michigan — qualifying as both a small rural town and a “far corner of the earth”), we believe God is not finished with any place or any people.

It’s a new day. Revival is on the horizon. Do you sense it? God is raising up men and women for ministry right now. The master of roadblocks and procrastination — our Enemy — is whispering lies: “God might be calling you… but not yet. Wait for a better time.” Don’t listen. There is no better time. Your wires aren’t crossed. God is calling — and help is on the way. This new Center will walk with people as they step fully into God’s call in fresh, dynamic, and life-changing ways. People living in darkness are about to encounter the light of Christ through pastors loving and living into the calling God has placed upon their lives.

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
— Isaiah 43:19

What are the Assemblies of God churches doing that the Nazarenes aren’t doing?

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

According to the research of Ryan Burge, Professor of Practice at the Danforth Center for Religion and Politics at Washington University, there is only one denomination (of all the denominations in the USA) that is significantly larger than it was 30 years ago: The Assemblies of God (see the graph). Of course, the big question is: why them and not us?

The Assemblies of God is a global Pentecostal church which began in 1914 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The Church of the Nazarene began in 1908 in Pilot Point Texas. In fact, the original name of the Church of the Nazarene was the “Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene.” (The word “Pentecostal” was dropped in 1919 so as to not be confused with churches like the Assemblies of God that emphasized speaking in tongues and other manifestations of the Holy Spirit). While we differ on “the tongues issue,” we certainly would consider the Assemblies of God church a “sister” church. So why are they doing so well, when the until this year, the Church of the Nazarene in USA/Canada has been in a massive decadal decline?

One might pick an obvious answer and say, it is because of their emphasis on speaking in tongues. But is that it or is there something else going on? I’m sure there are several factors that have contributed to the denominational growth. I will suggest one. 

By virtue of their emphasis on the workings of the Holy Spirit, the Assemblies of God preach a gospel that is near. By that I mean experiential. They are in tune to the fact that Jesus is with us when we gather (with “two or more,” remember His words). In a world that is increasingly disconnected from one another, they preach a gospel of connectedness. This isn’t a tongues issue. It’s what our society is seeking. In an ever increasing lonely world, it’s a message that says, “God wants to connect with you.” 

It can be our message too. Again, I don’t think it is about unknown tongues. It is about meeting with Jesus. Seeking Jesus. Expecting Jesus to show up at our gatherings. It’s the presence of Jesus that makes for a compelling worship service. Not music, lights or preaching. It’s Jesus. 

The Assemblies of God figured that out long ago, and people are drawn to their story. That can be us. Jesus wants to meet with us. Do we plan, pray and prepare our hearts for an up close and personal encounter with Jesus. Maybe if we saw that happening more and more in our churches (starting with our pastors and church leaders), our growth trajectory would look more like the Assemblies of God rather than the stock graph line of Radio Shack (It’s not that bad my fellow Nazarenes). 

Our world needs Jesus. The Assemblies of God doesn’t have a corner on the market of Jesus. It’s a message we can and do preach. The more our people get in touch with Jesus, the greater our impact on culture and society will be. Our task is simple: Connect people to Jesus. 

I am a Nazarene

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

Not all Christians agree with everything that the Church of the Nazarene believes. For crying out loud, not all Nazarenes agree with everything in the Manual. If we did the Manual would never change, but it does change every four years. As such, through it all, we strive to have unity in the essentials; liberty in the non-essentials and charity in all things. (Key word: “Strive” we aren’t always united and/or charitable, but we sure should “strive” to be.). 

There are some things that the Church of the Nazarene is pretty rock solid on even as others disagree. For example, we Nazarenes have always practiced both baby dedication and infant baptism. Not everybody does. Karla and I baptized Alex and dedicated Ben (I don’t know why). I tell folks the jury is still out on which one is better. Infant baptism has been around since the earliest Christians. The anabaptists stopped practicing infant baptism a few hundred years ago, and offered baby dedications instead. So we do both. We Nazarenes have such a strong view of the prevenient grace of God, and it is wonderfully demonstrated in infant baptism. God loves that baby, while it’s still being formed and His love never stops. In baby dedication, the emphasis is on the parents commitment to raise the child in the a Christian home. Speaking of baptism, in believer baptism, we will drip, douse or dunk. It’s not the amount of H2O applied that matters, baptism proclaims the amount of grace applied in the individual’s life. 

We have always ordained women. In fact, percentage wise, we had more female pastors in our early years than we do today. People who don’t agree site Paul’s words to Timothy about women being silent in church (ignoring the context of the trouble making women in the local church at Ephesus at the time). They forget about Peter quoting Joel saying, women will be prophesying in the end times. They also look over the obvious citation of Priscilla and Aquilla leading a church in Romans 16. Or Lydia being a church leader in Philippi. Or the resurrected Jesus, giving Mary Magdalene the first glimpse of His glory, and commissioning her to tell the others about it. If women are good enough proclaimers for the resurrected Jesus, they are good enough for us!

We have always believed that God can make people holy today. We are a holiness people. Always have been. In both Old and New Testaments God says, “Be Holy.” Would God Almighty really tell us to do something that is impossible to do—or something that only a few select people could be?  I don’t think so. Holy living is possible and encouraged for every faithful follower of Jesus. The evidence of such holy living is the fruit of the Spirit demonstrated in the believer’s life.

We have always upheld a traditional view of marriage between a man and a woman. Many congregations are debating the biblical record these days. A few years back, when the question of human sexuality arose in the General Assembly, 97% of the delegates voted to uphold the traditional standard that we have always affirmed. That doesn’t mean we exclude people or are unwelcoming. We encourage all. Welcome all. Love all. Show grace and mercy to all.

Some things change. When I was a kid, Nazarene’s didn’t go to movies. We didn’t dance either. I got out of 5th grade square dancing because my mom sent a note saying “dancing was against our religion.” If I held a membership class that day, every boy in the fifth grade at Marquette Elementary School would have signed up to be a Nazarene. We’ve changed non-essential elements of life as culture has changed. We aren’t Amish after all.

Some things are still up for interpretation and we don’t fight about it— if folks choose to land some other place than where other members have landed– It’s OK. As such, Nazarenes don’t have a preferred Bible translation (although the Foundry uses the New International Version in its Sunday School materials). We don’t have a set view on Christ’s return (other than Jesus is coming again). We don’t have a set view on creation (other than God did it). We don’t tell people who to vote for in elections. Not sure Jesus would be an elephant or a donkey. We tell folks to read their Bible; pray about it; and decide. We leave room for folks who disagree or doubt or are seeking. 

Some things change. Some things don’t. Some things we leave up to the individual to figure out. That’s Nazarene-dom in a nut shell—and I’m glad to be a part of it.

The Nazarene Pastor Shortage and What One Church is Doing About It

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

On Flint Central Church’s recent mission trip to Panama, a high school student preached the Sunday morning message (with a translator) in the Panamanian church. By all accounts, she did great. Two students came home from the mission trip announcing that they were sensing a call into ministry. There are at least two other high schoolers who also have expressed an interest in becoming a pastor. If you are counting at home that is 5 students expressing an interest in ministry.*

Why does Central church have so many young men and women called into the ministry? 

There are probably a variety of reasons. I’ll list a few possible answers: 

1) There is a healthy church culture. The board and pastoral staff are aligned. Students view ministry positively because of the church culture that has developed. 

2) The church emphasizes “Growing Together.” Students have seen in their parents, grandparents or many other adults a faithful witness. There is a mutual love between the older, seasoned Christians and students.

3) The church has had great youth pastors who have inspired our students on what they could become and have modeled faithfulness before them.

4) Opportunities have been given for students to hear from the Lord: Mission trips, NYC, D-Now, retreats and camps. God speaks when students getaway and can listen to God. 

5) God calling people into ministry is mentioned from the pulpit and in youth group from time to time. The students have seen their peers called into ministry and have been open to God speaking to themselves too. Sometimes it’s a snowball effect, one student is called into ministry then another and another and another… it just keeps growing.

6) There have been opportunities for ministers-in-training to serve at Central as volunteers and interns. For example, yesterday’s summer combined adult and student Sunday School class was taught by a recent high school graduate.

7) The church puts its money where its mouth is. This year Central Church gave out over $26,000 to in scholarships to 18 Olivet Nazarene University students. There has been an emphasis on education and the church has helped provide for it.

And most importantly, 

8) Central church is a praying church. They’ve followed Jesus’ instructions: “pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest” (Luke 10:2). The church has prayed and God has answered!

Corporately, the Church of the Nazarene needs to pray too. The Church of the Nazarene is in desperate need for young men and women to be called into the ministry. The current clergy are aging (writer included. Deep Sigh!) and we need more pastors. On our district there are 8 churches in need of a pastor. From what I can tell (I may be wrong) none of those churches have any prospects. No interviews are lined up. No one is knocking on the church doors to become the next pastor. The Eastern Michigan district is not alone. There is a pastor shortage and it’s going to get worse as we old timers die off.  After all these years, Jesus words are still true. The fields are still ready. We need to pray for (and develop) workers more than ever.

*This is not a new phenomenon at Central Church. Here are the 20-somethings from Central Church in ministry (or training): Bryce Potts is a student at Taylor University studying to be a worship pastor. He is interning at Central Church this summer. Two students are in Olivet’s summer PR groups (Tyler Chapin and Grace Bedell). Sarah Hurd is a youth pastor in Illinois. Tyler and Hannah VanSteenburg are pastoring in Madison Heights, Michigan. Of course, Haley (VanSteenburg) Baker is the wife of Central Church’s Mid-High Youth pastor, Tyler. While Justin Hilliard doesn’t have a ministry degree or pastor’s license, trust me, Central Church’s tech director (who grew up at Central church) is in ministry. Even though the Close sisters, Lydia and Sophie, expressed a call to ministry before coming to Central Church, I will include them too. Lydia and husband, Caleb, are pastoring the Refinery Nazarene Church in Brandon, Michigan. Sophie and husband, Ethan, are on staff at Devoted City Church in Raleigh, North Carolina. Another 20-something, Allie Degner, starts next week working at the Global Ministry Center of the Church of the Nazarene in the communications department, These are just the pastors and leaders in their 20’s—Flint Central has many other pastors age 30 and above who list Central church as their “home” church (including our own 30 somethings Pastors Sauer—Tyler and sister, Emily). If you are counting at home that’s 13 people from Central church in their 20’s in ministry.

Is it time for the Silent Majority in the Church of the Nazarene to speak?

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

Most people in the Church of the Nazarene (CotN) are silent when it comes to the happenings of the church. I’m not talking about those members on the fringe that barely know they attend a Nazarene church. No, these silent folks are “in the know.” They know all about the CotN. They observe social media happenings concerning the CotN. They pay attention to the issues in the church and in the world. They hear the chatter from the conservative groups, progressive groups, charismatic influenced groups, our college happenings or things on the mission field (both good and bad). They have opinions regarding these things. They simply keep their thoughts to themselves.

This is especially true for those in leadership positions. There must be a class when one enters the Global Ministry Center (GMC) on the how to avoid making comments on social media. Don’t “like” any opinion. Don’t address any problem. Don’t offend one side or the other. Be quiet.

I can’t blame them. I’ve seen people take a position (it’s happened to me) and one side or the other goes ballistic. Their name and opinion gets dragged through the mud. Their outlook was lambasted. People assumed this or that about the person. Usually it’s not good. People they thought were their friends (not just “Facebook friends,” but real ones) write hurtful things. Any response would come across as “defensive.” They’ve learned their lesson. “Stay quiet.”

(I’m pretty sure I have the inglorious distinction of one who has offended just about everyone at one time or another with these little 500-700 word blogs. Yet here I am, blabbering on. Apparently, I have not learned my lesson). 

There is a reason why the cliché, “The squeaky wheel gets the grease,” is true. We’ve seen it happen over and over in the church. The ones who yell the loudest– get the attention. No matter if their opinions are contrary to the stated doctrines of the Church. No matter if the loudest and angriest display very un-Christlike attributes. No matter that their bullying tactics intimidate people into silence. No matter that their message of aggression and callousness is what non-believers also see. “Truth,” they say, is what they are defending. But if “truth” is conveyed in an untruthful or un-Christlike manner is it still the “Truth”? “If you can’t stand the heat get out of the kitchen,” the theological bullies tell us. That’s another truth-filled cliché which is leading the silent exodus of sound-minded people. 

I’ve heard some opinions say, “80% of Nazarenes are nice and wonderful followers of Jesus and there are 10% of Nazarenes are on either end of the bully stick.” 10% ultra-conservative bullies and 10% ultra-progressive bullies. I tend to think the percentages are not nearly that strong. My estimation is that it’s only 1% on either end. Maybe less. At least, 98% of Nazarenes are following after Jesus and striving to live a holy life. The squeaky wheels are 2% (maybe less), but those squeaky wheels get a lot of the greasy attention on social media and elsewhere.

Solomon was right. “There is a time to be silent and a time to speak” (Ecclesiastes 3:7). It should go without saying (but I’m writing about it so maybe it’s not so obvious): We can’t always be silent. There is a time to speak. Former “CBS Evening News” anchor Scott Pelley said, “The most important thing is to have the courage to speak, to not let fear permeate the country so that everyone suddenly becomes silent. If you have the courage to speak, we are saved. If you fall silent, the country is doomed.”  Substitute the words “Church of the Nazarene” for the word “Country” and there’s a lesson for my fellow Silent Majority Nazarene members (yes, I count myself in that group). There are times when we can’t be silent. We must speak. It may  upset 1% on either end of the Nazarene spectrum, but we cannot fear. Take courage. Speak. 

Has the Death of the Church of the Nazarene Been Greatly Exaggerated?

On By Rob Prince2 Comments

The famous quote about his death being exaggerated is attributed to Mark Twain over an obituary mistakenly printed. I wonder if the same can be said about the Church of the Nazarene (CotN)?

Someone has a disagreement with the CotN and conclude, “this is the death of her.” Splash their overly pessimistic opinions on social media. The usual suspects of disgruntled former members quickly chime in. “They’re done. Dead. Put a fork in her,” they say.

I imagine it was that way when the Missionary Bible folks thought TVs were too worldly in 50’s and left the CotN (minus the social media, of course) or when some folks exited over charismatic gifts in the 70s or when those who disagree with the CotN’s stance on human sexuality walk out today. “They are wrong,” they shout, “Turn out the lights, the party is over.”

But is that accurate? The church is growing in various parts of the world. Africa passed the USA a few years back in membership. Even USA/Canada had slight growth last year. Not everyone is leaving apparently. There have been a few pastors who’ve turned in their credentials, but it’s not an avalanche. A few churches have exited too, but, again, it’s a trickle not Niagara Falls. 

This is not to say, the church is without error. No doubt wrongs have happened. Dirty church politics have been played. There are leaders who have no business leading. Good members have been quieted. For some, politics seems more important than the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Rumors were started (even during the General Assembly voting process prompting chastisement from more than one General Superintendent). There have been unfair District Superintendents (Clarification: my use of the word “unfair” is an attempt to be kind. I’ve been lied to and about from some leaders in our tribe. That’s not only unfair, it’s unChristian). Even so, the church is full of good apples. Not bad ones. Leaders included. Good grief, it’s a church made up of flawed people. There will be messy situations by virtue of that fact.

I don’t fault those who feel that they can no longer fellowship in the Church of the Nazarene. I’m saddened by their exit. But there’s no judgment from me. I hope that they find a Gospel proclaiming church that lives into the words of Jesus.

As for me, I still believe in our theology. I still believe in our efforts to make Christ-like disciples. I still think we are a church that welcomes the stranger, folks on the margins, and the downtrodden (I know my local church does). I still believe in our leadership. Does that make me a Pollyanna? I hope not. I hope it makes me expectant of good days ahead. I want to believe in the best of people. I want to trust the Holy Spirit’s leading. I want to think the “old gal” still has some life in her. I want to think her death has been greatly exaggerated. 

Disappointed in some Corners of the Church of the Nazarene (USA Version)

On By Rob Prince5 Comments

Sometimes I’m disappointed in my tribe. Not my local church mind you (I’m super biased but Flint Central Church is a great church). No, I’m saddened by USA/Canada version of the Church of the Nazarene. Here’s why: a highly qualified female candidate was not elected to be the lead pastor in a local church (in this case, the District Superintendent was strongly supportive of her. It wasn’t his fault that she wasn’t elected). I’m convinced there was only one reason for her failure to reach the two thirds threshold required by the Manual. She is a female. In far too many places, we will let females be our children pastors or our youth pastors, but that’s it. In far too many places, a female pastoral candidate has no chance of becoming the lead pastor.

It’s a local church issue, you might defend the tribe. I wish that were the case. I wish it were just one local church with a lack of biblical understanding or a lack of Nazarene history and tradition or because (I hate to write it) misogynistic attitudes among the congregation that voted against the over qualified female candidate. But is it a local issue? I’m not so sure.

Yes, we (finally) have a couple of female District Superintendents in USA/Canada (two  in USA; one in Canada). Are three out of 80+ districts really worth celebrating or should we be weeping?  Yes, we have a female General Superintendent. But even she was never a solo pastor. I sometimes wonder if even Carla Sunberg would be elected to be the lead pastor in some of our churches. Of the COK churches (larger churches in USA/Canada), there are only three female pastors (Shawna Gaines at Trevecca Community, Selena Freeman at The Well in Springfield, MO and Beth Nelson at Prairie Heights in Fargo, ND).  Again three out of top 100 or so churches isn’t a great record. Just ask former Nazarene large church pastor, Tara Beth Leach, of the remarks and attitudes she encountered and had to endure in our tribe. It’s not a good report. 

Maybe it’s time for the USA/Canada region to learn from the Asia Pacific Region. That forward thinking region has a “Women in Leadership Coordinator” on its regional leadership team. Dr. Lynne Bollinger is serving in this role. It seems that USA/Canada needs to think of better ways to develop and elevate women in ministry too. But it’s not just giving a seat on the leadership team that’s needed. We must educate our people of the numerous Biblical references of female leaders. We need to call out misogynistic churches and leaders and remind them that “our sons AND DAUGHTERS will prophesy.” We need to confess that our polity (we have always ordained women) and our actions have not always matched.  

To be sure, there are other problems in the church in America. It’s not always easy building a growing, Christ-honoring church in our current culture. Our leaders have a lot on their plates. Prioritizing the endorsement and encouragement of female leaders will help us in dealing with some of these other issues. God speaks through women. We need them. We need their voices.  Just as God used Miriam and Deborah and Esther and Mary Magdalene and Phoebe and Priscilla and… well you get the idea… God will use today’s female leaders if we give them the opportunity. 

Blog less. Write More. (Famous Last Words, by Yours Truly)

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

During my sabbatical, I have made a commitment to blog less and write more. So what did I do, my first Monday back in the office? I wrote a blog about the need to not post on social media on matters we know nothing about in regard to our Nazarene colleges and universities (honestly that should be our position on all things). The post was read by many people. Unfortunately soon it devolved into name calling and the comments reflecting the exact opposite of what I had just written. UGH. People. 

It was a “welcome-back-to-the-real-world” moment for me. We live in a divided world. Sadly, including the church. Someone asked me to recall the days when the worst thing a Wesleyan could call a fellow believer was a “Calvinist.” Now, it seems that people are ready to toss our brothers and sisters in Christ into the fires of Hell over the slightest disagreement. We are quick to judge. Quick to anger. For all practical purposes quick to toss aside the grace that was so freely given to us. This should not be us.

Christians will not agree on everything. The Bible isn’t crystal clear on every topic. It takes prayer and discernment and sometimes some of us will get our wires crossed and come to a different opinion. It doesn’t mean that the other is totally wrong and have sold their soul to the devil. It means we simply disagree. 

Sunday, I talked about how the Pharisees were the “holiness people” of the first century. Their brand of “holiness” was constantly running up against Jesus. At times, I see the same “holier-than-thou” and “holiness-as-a-weapon” brands of holiness infecting some of us in holiness traditions. We need to be very careful or Jesus will likewise refer to us as a “brood of vipers” and “white washed tombs.” 

My fellow, holiness people, please let us act like it. Holiness isn’t about what you know, it’s how you live out what you know. Our world needs holy people living, posting and acting like Jesus.

My goal of a book a year will not be accomplished with days like yesterday. I need to blog less write more.

(FYI… I wrote this for the Church Board and Pastors of Central Church. Obviously, I also posted it to my blog. I know, two days in a row a blog post… so much for writing less blogs. Ugh. I have turned off the comments… not because I want to quench discussion, simply I don’t have time to monitor this today. Many blessings. And I mean it, I plan to blog less, write more.). 

Hey Nazarene Pastors, what are you waiting for?

On By Rob Prince3 Comments

Nazarene Pensions and Benefits has tried to help Nazarene pastors’ meager retirement plan. Last year P&B announced that pastors could get up to a 50% match of what a local church/pastor contributed in their Fidelity 403b account (up to a $2500 or 50% of $5,000). The latest addition of the NBUSA Quarterly–the newsletter for the Nazarene Benefits (see it here) has a troubling statistic. Through the first three quarters of last year, a whopping 76% of Nazarene ministers did not receive a match in their fidelity account. 

76%?

What are you waiting for my fellow pastors?

This is free money for you? Who not named Elon Musk or Bill Gates turns down free money (I think even those guys would take free money). 

As the church pays some (if not all) of the Pensions apportionment and the pastor/church contribute to the pastor’s Fidelity account; then Pension and Benefits matches (read: free money) up to $2500 (read again: free money) into their account. For example, my church pays its pension budget in full; then the church matches what a pastor contributes up to $2500. So the pastor gives $2500; our church gives $2500 and the denomination gives $2500. The grand total is $7500 in the pastor’s retirement account.

For old guys and gals like me, it helps a little bit. For younger pastors getting $7500 into a retirement account is a game changer. If young pastors do this year after year, when they become an old pastor like me, they will not need to worry about their retirement years. 

Last year, I thanked P&B for this change (you can read that article here). The old adage, “you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink,” seems to be true. As it relate to Nazarene pastors’ retirement maybe it should read: “You can try to provide a better retirement for Nazarene pastors, but 76% have said, “Thanks, but no thanks.”

Pastors this is the best retirement plan ever offered by our church. Please take advantage of it. Even if the local church and pastor can’t contribute the full $5000, pay your P&B budget and do something, anything. 

It’s a good deal. 

What are you waiting for?

Stop Counting Worship Attendance!

On By Rob Prince2 Comments

Worship Attendance numbers have caused more pastoral anxiety (and more false pride) than any other number listed on the Nazarene Annual Pastor’s Report (APR). Those numbers don’t reflect the what’s really happening or not happening within a church. Church growth (or lack of growth) does not necessarily reflect the health of a church. Too many good pastors have been defeated because a group got miffed at what the faithful pastor said or didn’t say and stormed off to the Baptists down the street. Attendance fell and so did the pastor’s confidence. Others were puffed up when the Baptist church in town split and half their crowd hopped over to the Nazarene church. There is a solution to this less-than-holy enticement. Stop counting. Stop asking how many were in church last Sunday. Just stop.

All those experiencing modest growth and the church growth prodigies in the crowd are having a heart attack: “We have to count people because people count.” Thank you Elmer Towns (Don’t know Elmer? Google him). No, we don’t have to count people. Who says? And we don’t have to focus on numerical realities because there is a book in the Bible called Numbers (I heard that lame argument back in the day too). Just stop counting.

In most cases, in USA/Canada anyway, the numbers are useless. Here are the facts:

Fact 1: Most churches are declining or have flatlined in USA/Canada. 
Fact 2: Most growth occurring is transfer growth (sheep changing pastures, not lost sheep coming home).
Fact 3: On-line attendance is the most inaccurate number of all.
Fact 4: Combining on-line and in-person attendance is a deceptively inaccurate grand total. It’s inclusion on the APR is for bragging rights only and no other reason.

All this to say, why count worship attendance numbers?

If anyone knew the fickleness of numbers, it was Jesus. He fed 5,000 on one occasion and 4,000 on another (someone was counting), but how many of those folks were there when he really needed them? A few women and the teenager John were the only friendly faces on Golgotha. Even after He was raised from the dead and lots of people saw Him, only 120 showed up for the prayer meeting until Pentecost. Not exactly earth shattering numbers (yeah, yeah, I know someone counted the 120 people and someone counted the 3,000 who were “added to their number” on Pentecost too. Blah, blah, blah…does it really matter what those numbers were?). 

Can’t we count the things that Jesus said were important (see the Great Commission if you need a lesson on what’s important). Count Baptisms. Count Disciples-in-training. Count those engaged in ministry. Like the nameless mathematician in the disciples’ circle (probably Matthew the tax collector), count the number of people fed. In other words, count community impact? Count those numbers, not how many butts are in seats or clicks made on Facebook live. 

The church growth movement (and it’s prioritizing noses and nickels) is in part to blame for the declining mess we are currently in. We were counting people, but didn’t care for them. We were counting nickels, but not nurturing neighbors. Let’s stop caring about who has more people in a pew and start caring more for the hurting people not in our pews. Let’s start calculating ways to show Jesus’ love to the “never attenders” and “down-in-outers,” instead of building brownie points with power brokers in a denominational office.   

Stop counting worship attendance and start serving!

What makes a “Joyful and Triumphant” Pastor? 

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

The Pastors’ Christmas Banquet is tonight on the Eastern Michigan District. The district is blessed to have Frankenmuth, a quaint Christmas village, nearby (technically, the town is located in the Michigan District’s territory but the drive is not too far for most EMD pastors). The dinner is at the iconic Zehnder’s restaurant and its famous family style chicken dinners. Karla and I always leave a little early for the dinner so we can stop at Bronner’s (the world’s largest Christmas store) in Frankenmuth to purchase a few ornaments. All this to say, the Eastern Michigan Pastors’ Christmas dinner is a far cry from some districts’ pastor’s Christmas dinners in musty church fellowship halls or at greasy truck stops along the freeway. 

When I first started attending this event, it was a much more dress-up affair. I once called the gathering the “Nazarene Prom.” It’s not as “promy” these days. There will be still be red sweaters and a few Christmas ties, but no gowns or corsages. We will eat chicken (and schnitzel), sing Silent Night and see pastor friends from across the district. It will be a nice evening.

I’m thankful for the brother and sisterhood of ministry. Some of the finest people, I know are pastors. While pastoring has its moments of glorious victories, there are also many times of disappointment, betrayal, loneliness and heartache. It’s not always easy being a pastor (believe me, I know). Some have toiled in difficult situations with little thanks, yet are still faithful. Some have been slandered, lied about, criticized by carnal members and still serve Jesus. Social media has butchered plenty of fine pastors (or their families) and caused many sleepless nights. Some have been passed over because leaders have listened (whether consciously or not) to those corrupt and sinful voices. They have endured loss and hurt but press on. It’s a calling not a job. It’s that calling that gets them up every day and keeps them working hard into the night. There once was a commercial saying being a U.S. marine was “the toughest job you will ever love.” Not true. Being a pastor has that distinction.

All this to say, tonight, as we are singing “O Come All Ye Faithful,” I will look around the roomful of pastors and see plenty who are “joyful and triumphant.” They are so, not because of accolades or church statistics. Instead these faithful shepherds, empowered and enabled by Jesus, are fulfilling the call He placed upon their lives. The Kingdom is enlarged because of these “joyful and triumphant” men and women

I will be honored to be standing in their midst. 

Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding. Jeremiah 3:15

Here’s Why I am Thankful for the Church of the Nazarene

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Is the Church of the Nazarene perfect? No.
Are there faults in the Church of the Nazarene? Yes.
Can I point to bad churches, bad pastors, bad leaders, bad DSs, bad, bad, bad?  Yes. Yes and Yes.

Still, I am thankful for the Church of the Nazarene. 

Here’s why:

I found Jesus in the Church of the Nazarene.
The church building is now a doctor’s office. The small, rag tag body of believers split apart when the church closed. The preacher, who preached the message that prompted me to invite Jesus into my life, lost his credentials. But I found Jesus at the Elmwood Church of the Nazarene in Westland, Michigan in 1974. Fifty years later, He is still with me.

The theology of the Church of the Nazarene is rock solid.
I’m a Nazarene because I believe in the theology and doctrine of the CotN. If I didn’t, I would leave. Would I change this or that in the Manual? Oh maybe, but it’s not enough to scream about on social media.

The Preaching Collaborative has been a breath of fresh air. 
Dr. David Graves led an initiative (thanks to a Lily Grant) to make more effective, evangelistic preachers. The effort will probably make better preachers (the curriculum is good), but it’s been most refreshing because of the relationships I’ve established with the very gifted ministers in my cohort (I’m looking at you Dave, Travis, Christen, Nate and Ajay!!!).

USA/Canada’s Emphasis on The Cycle of Resurgence instituted was needed.
The emphasis on Blessing our Community; Bringing People to Jesus; and Becoming Christlike Disciples is simple enough, but vital for a turnaround. (Full Disclosure: Maybe I like it because it aligns perfectly with the three core commitments of the church I pastor: Being the Best Neighbors; Jesus changes Everything and Growing Together.)

The diversity in the General Superintendents’ board room.
GSs born in Guatemala, Columbia, Mozambique, Germany, and two in the United States make for a global room (Don’t quote me on this, but I believe Scott Daniels was born in Detroit Michigan, which is…well…  let’s just say a lot of good people were born around Motown… ahem). Having the group include a woman is also great. 

The Church of the Nazarene cares for its missionaries.
I’m thankful the CotN believes in missions. I’m glad Nazarene global missionaries don’t have to beg churches for financial support, but have an agreed upon salary and health insurance. In my weak moments, I’ve complained about the apportionment system, but I am thankful for WEF funding of our missionaries. 

The Church of the Nazarene has a commitment to higher education.
Even with the sad closing of Eastern Nazarene College this year, there are still over 40 educational institutions in the world where Nazarenes gather to learn. Learning has always been an important hallmark of the CotN. (Again my bias shows, my siblings and I all went to Olivet. All of my parents grandkids went to Olivet too – except for the lone “black sheep,” my son, who went to MidAmerica Nazarene University).

The Church of the Nazarene is family. 
When out and about, I love knowing that I have Nazarene brothers and sisters that I could call in an emergency. In 164 world areas, I have family. That is incredibly comforting to know I have a 2.7 million member extended and blended family! (We added seven more to that number yesterday at Central Church).

My local church is awesome.
The church is about the people I rub shoulders with on a weekly basis. These folks in Flint Michigan love Jesus and it shows. They are missional. They are intergenerational. They are generous. The church board is great. So are the pastors. I’m super biased, but I’m convinced my local church is the best Nazarene church on the planet (with apologies to the other 30,746 other Nazarene churches that are vying for the second best church). 

Yes, I’m thankful for the Church of the Nazarene. 

The Pastors I Admire

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

As I embark upon my twelfth year at Central Church, I am impressed by those pastors who have given their entire lives to one community (this is my fifth pastorate). Pastors on the Eastern Michigan District like Rev. Bob Hunter who went to Detroit Grace Church of the Nazarene straight out of Bible College in 1978 (or something like that) and has never left. Rev. John Wright who has only pastored Detroit New Hope and has been there around 40 years. Rev. Mike Kempton, a classmate of mine at Olivet and Nazarene Theological Seminary, has only pastored the Hazel Park, Michigan church. He is at 35+ years in that assignment. Those men, and many other pastors around the country like them, are heroes.

Flint Central is my longest pastorate. Compared to those pastors in the previous paragraph, I’m a newbie. Mine is the second longest pastoral tenure in the history of Flint Central church (Rev. John Andree was here longer). I’d like to say that my time here has been without worries or trouble. I’d like to say it, but I can’t. There have been peaks and valleys (as with any church). There have been times when the Enemy has said, “Be like a bread truck and move your buns” or something to that effect. But through it all, God has been faithful to remind me of my call to Flint Central Church. I wasn’t “hired” to be the pastor of Flint Central Church, I was called by God to be here. It’s that calling that hasn’t left me and has kept me here. 

All this to say, I’m sure Revs. Hunter, Wright, and Kempton have had moments of frustration and problematic people. They may have been wooed to go to other places. But they’ve stayed through thick and thin. They have remained faithful to the cause of Christ in their communities. They have fought the good fight, through all times. It is an admirable quality that I cannot match (unless I keep pastoring until age 104). 

Uncle Buddy Robinson, an evangelist of a century ago, understood the challenges of the ministry. Of course, he didn’t have today’s keyboard critics hiding behind their screens using social media to spread venomous lies and gossip. He didn’t know of maliciousness of rumormongering technology that could land below-the-belt gut punches with the stroke of a key. Still he knew the Enemy would put up a fight, trying to get beat-down pastors into throwing in the towel. He described a determination to stay in the fight that the three pastors mentioned above (and many others not named) exemplify.

Put iron shoes on my feet along with galvanized britches. Hang a wagon load of determination upon the gable end of my soul and help me to sign a contract to fight the devil as long as I’ve got a fist and to bite him as long as I’ve got a tooth and then gum him ’til I die.

In-it-for-the-lang-haul pastors like Revs. Hunter, Wright, and Kempton signed that contract years ago to keep on fighting no matter the circumstances. They have heroically remained faithful. I can’t match their longevity, but I pray all pastors (myself included) would strive to match their resolve, fortitude and grit. Keep on fighting and “gum him ‘til we die.” 

The Church of the Nazarene Looks a lot like Heaven. Here’s Why that’s Even Better Than You Think:

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

There are 195 countries in the world (according the United Nations) and the Church of the Nazarene is in over 160 of them. The Church of the Nazarene is in more countries than McDonalds (164 vs 120). For some ecclesiastical context, the United Methodist Church is in 138 countries. The Free Methodists and Southern Baptists are each in just over 100 countries. The Wesleyans are in 90. The Missionary Church is in 110 countries. The “Global” Methodists are in just eight. So the Church of the Nazarene is more “missionary” than the Missionary church and far more “global” than the Global Methodist Church. 

An argument can be made that other than the Roman Catholic Church, the Church of the Nazarene is the most globally minded and equally represented church in the world (the Roman Catholics have been doing things a tad bit longer than the 116 year old Nazarenes). There are more African Nazarenes (927,961) than North American Nazarenes (577,282). Next year, for the first time in Church of the Nazarene history, there may be over 1 million Nazarenes on one continent (Africa, not North America). 

According to the 2023 General Secretary’s report, there are 30,747 churches around the globe (McDonald’s has a beat with its 45,000+ restaurants in the world). There are 30,000+ elders, deacons and licensed ministers. Moreover, there are 482 missionaries from 60 world areas serving in 83 areas. Every Sunday the message of Jesus is proclaimed in Nazarene churches in 192 different languages (Honesty Alert #1: I didn’t even know there were 192 different languages, let alone that there are Nazarene services in these different dialects). Besides the languages you might expect (English, Spanish, Portuguese, French and Haitian), there are Nazarene worship services in Bengali (134,164), Tsonga (121,784), Chichewa (84,942); Tok Pisin (64,714) and Amharic (48,356). (Honesty Alert #2: Not only have I never heard of these languages, I never would have guessed that thousands of Nazarenes speaking in these various tongues are worshipping every single week). It makes one long for heaven where  there will be  “a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb” (Revelation 7:9). 

All to say, the Church of the Nazarene looks a lot like heaven and, on the earth, is in the best position to have a global impact. Better than many of our sister denominations. We have “boots on the ground” all over the world. If disaster strikes, the Church of the Nazarene is already there (thank you Nazarene Compassionate Ministries). If  travelling in another country, know there are like-minded brothers and sisters ready to help should problems arise. But most of all, in all those places and in all those languages Jesus is being preached! 

Jesus said to be my witnesses “to the ends of the earth,” and the Church of the Nazarene is attempting to fulfill that mission. Praise the Lord!

She Ain’t Dead Yet: Reports of the Death of the Church of the Nazarene are Greatly Exaggerated

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Mark Twain may or may not have once said, “the reports of my death are greatly exaggerated.” The same can be said for the Church of the Nazarene.

The extremes in the Church of the Nazarene like to point to conflict or trouble and conclude with the pronouncement, “…and that’s why the Church of the Nazarene is dying.” When some elders lost their credentials because of disagreements with the Manual regarding human sexuality, the cries from our brothers and sisters on the left were, “…and that’s why the Church of the Nazarene is dying.”  When those on the far right, like to point out the splinters in some ministers’ eyes (while missing the planks in their own) they frequently conclude, “…and that’s why the Church of the Nazarene is dying.” When a few folks on the far right, besmirched some General Superintendent candidates they perceived as “liberal” with social media gossip, rumors and flat out lies at the last General Assembly, sensible yet discouraged people on all sides cried, “…and that’s why the Church of the Nazarene is dying.” 

Like Mark Twain, the rumors of the Church of the Nazarene’s demise have been greatly exaggerated. 

One could get the impression that there are a lot of problems in the Church of the Nazarene. (Honesty alert: I’ve been accused of being a “Negative Nelly”). The church has struggled especially in Europe and USA/Canada. At times, I’ve pointed out troubling statistics. Conversely, Africa is booming with the Gospel message. I’ve been told the World Evangelism Fund (WEF) giving is up my a million dollars. Wow! Last week, I wrote how USA/Canada may have (it’s a rumor at this point) the first year of growth in 19 years. A few of my apparent fellow Negative Nazarene Nellies following the aforementioned blog wondered if the growth was simply sheep stealing from the United Methodists. Of course, there is no way to know where the growth came from across North America, but I have a hunch that its more than sheep changing pastures. I’m optimistic. I think there is something better happening.

Case in point, last week I spent a day and a half with some of the best of the best in the USA/Canada Church of the Nazarene. Dr. David Graves is leading an effort to improve Nazarene preaching. The Preaching Collaborative is an effort (funded by a Lily grant) to promote evangelistic, Biblical preaching. I am a facilitator in this effort. Most of the groups across the country gathered last week in Estes Park, Colorado. There were meetings, seminars and, it was a Nazarene event after all, food and gatherings around tables. 

I looked around the room and saw old ministers like me, but also young dynamic ministers like Galen Ryman of Chicago First Church, Nate Smith of The Table in Joliet, Colton Townley of The Crossings in Colorado, and Philip Modlin of Amplify in North Carolina (just to name a few) and I thought, the Church of the Nazarene is in very good hands. Speakers included Derwin Grey, Elise Snowden (another young Nazarene preacher who knocked it out of the park) and Dawie De Koker (Kevin Myers and Dr. Stan Reeder also spoke, but I left early to make it back to Central Church’s final  Spiritual Renewal week service). There were 175ish of us gathered. I’m sure there were a few stinkers in the crowd (present author excluded, please), but I couldn’t point them out. I was encouraged and believe the best days for the Church of the Nazarene are still ahead as we proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Don’t get too focused on what is perceived to be wrong in the Church of the Nazarene. I’m not suggesting putting one’s head in the sand. Of course, there are areas on all sides in which the church can improve. The Church of the Nazarene isn’t perfect (author included). Still let the main focus be the task at hand. Listening, learning and loving people in one’s local setting in an effort to share the Good News of Jesus. Jesus still changes things. The Church of the Nazarene is still in a position (maybe better than ever) to proclaim this Good News. Win the Lost.  Make disciples. Fulfill the mission.

She ain’t dead yet! 

Nazarene Worship Attendance In USA/Canada Grew In 2024 for the First Time in Nearly 20 years

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

Was 2023 the rock bottom year for the attendance for the Church of the Nazarene in USA/Canada? The worship attendance numbers for 2024 have not been released but the rumor is that for the first time in nearly 20 years, the USA/Canada region experienced worship attendance growth. It true, praise the Lord!

Following the massive attendance cliff following Covid, the church is starting to rebound. No doubt, this is happening in part because of the “cycle of resurgence” initiative started under regional director, Dr. Stan Reeder. The plan was bathed in prayer (always a good place to start). This year churches were to bless their community. Leading people to Jesus is next year’s focus. Finally it’s discipling people in the ways of Christ who will, in turn, bless their communities and the resurgent cycle begins. Some churches have stepped up their efforts to get into their communities and have already been leading people to Jesus and discipling them. Progress is happening. The church where I am privileged to pastor saw modest growth in 2024. Again, Praise the Lord!

“Butts in seats” (sorry for my crassness) is not synonymous with spiritual renewal. Taylor Swift can fill a stadium at 200 bucks a pop (or more), yet no one confuses the gathering with revival. Still, increased worship attendance is a sign of something (usually) good. When the Holy Spirit is moving in a church, it encourages those on the inside to invite outsiders so they too might experience what God is doing. In other words, the slight attendance growth should not be seen as the end (See: the 80s Church Growth Movement) but the beginning of a call to do the hard work of disciple-making.

“Counting people because people count” is not a compelling reason for filling a church. This isn’t Church Growth Movement 2.0. Jesus’ “church growth method” was not very effective. He went from 5,000+ at a free fish and bread event to John and a few women at Golgotha. Even after rising from the dead, there were only 120 in the meeting place on Pentecost. Not exactly, a booming, write-all-about-it, sign-a-book-contract evangelism explosion.

Jesus didn’t call us to fill a church. He called his followers to make disciples. That’s it. That’s the plan. Make disciples. Some will follow. Some will not. In fact, most will not (See Jesus statement on the “narrow road and only a few find it”). Even Jesus couldn’t convince some folks to follow Him (see Luke 9). Honestly, He didn’t seemed to obsessed about those who walked away. He didn’t chase after them. He didn’t beg them to reconsider. He simply invited someone else to follow. There’s always someone else who needs to hear the Good News. There is always someone else that is lonely and tired. Continuing to offer invitations and discipling the willing ones is the Jesus strategy. It seems to be working now too. 

Was 2023 the rock bottom year for attendance?  I hope so. If USA/Canada continues to repeat the cycle: bless our communities; tell folks about Jesus and make disciples, then continued growth could happen. Fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) is the ticket out of the attendance basement.

Can Dying Nazarene Churches be Resurrected?

On By Rob Prince7 Comments

Last week, my wife’s (Karla) mom’s funeral dinner was held in the former fellowship hall of the Nazarene church in her small hometown. Karla’s dad practically built that fellowship hall. Her folks gave plenty of money to see that it was constructed. Before moving in with us, Karla’s parents had been members at that church for 70+ years. Like her parents, the church is dead.  

The Nazarene church has been closed for a few years. The building was sold to another church group. The old fellowship hall is now the sanctuary. The old sanctuary is the children’s area. Upon walking in the door, instead of seeing alabaster boxes, missionary reading books and dusty plastic flowers, there is a coffee shop. The space has been completely changed. By all appearances the church group meeting in the former Nazarene building is doing great. 

Which begs the question: Why is that church thriving when the Nazarene church died?

There are a number of reasons, but here is my outside observer’s perspective:

1. Sacred Cows. Old Nazarene buildings are a pastures for sacred cows. They are everywhere. Aunt Suzie’s memorial money bought the pulpit, we can’t get rid of that. Uncle Charlie bought the pews. They’ve got to stay. Sister Bertha has overseen the missionary reading book table for 40 years, you can’t move it. On and on the sacred cows graze. 

2. Leadership. The current pastor of the new church grew up in that little town. His grandmother was Karla’s recess playground monitor. His grandpa worked with Karla’s dad in the machine shop. He had a stake in the community. None of the Nazarene pastors had that kind of community connection.

3. Reputation. The Nazarene church had been on that location for decades. People in the town knew the church (for good or bad). In a small town, everyone knows everyone’s business. There was a “been there, tried that” mindset.

4. People. If my in-laws are a representative of the people (and maybe they weren’t), they were old school Nazarenes. Good, godly people, but stuck in the mindset of this is “how we’ve always done things.” “A coffee shop when walking through the front doors?  Over my dead body!” I could hear one of them say. 

What if, every few years, Nazarene churches had an evaluation on existing properties, leadership, and community involvement. There could be a survey of neighbors regarding the church to determine an outsider’s perspective. A “secret shopper” could come with unbiased eyes to locate blind spots regarding furnishings, building usage, service effectiveness and church friendliness (every church thinks they are friendly to outsiders, most are not). The results of these tools could then lay the ground work for necessary changes. 

What if district monies were set aside to help cover costs for updating worship spaces, providing new signage and the elimination of out-of-date methods and mindsets. What if pastors were required to be involved in the community activities outside of the church at some level? What if church members evaluated the health of the church and took drastic measures (if necessary) to see the church remade and resurrected (easier said than done).

Many of the 4400+ Nazarene churches in USA/Canada are on life support. Add ten or twenty years to everyone sitting in the pews and estimate who will still be around. Many churches will die. That’s the bad news. The good news is that Karla’s home church proves it is not too late. Changed can come. Re-birth is possible. Even in a small town, new life can emerge. Every church doesn’t need a coffeeshop, but every church needs people and leadership willing to take a “whatever-it-takes,” Jesus first mindset. Without such a commitment, the church is already dead (they just don’t know it). 

Dying Nazarene churches can be resurrected. In fact, they must be, if the denomination is going to survive.

Who is to Blame for the Declining Worship Attendance in the Church of the Nazarene? 

On By Rob Prince3 Comments

If John Maxwell’s maxim was correct that everything rises and falls with leadership, than what leadership role is to blame for the USA/Canada Church of the Nazarene falling attendance? The six General Superintendents? The 78 District Superintendents? The 11,003 elders in USA/Canada? All of the church boards and Sunday School Superintendents across the country? You? Me?

Yes.

We are to blame. All the people who call themselves Nazarenes could look in the mirror and ask, “what more could I do?”

We can talk about broken systems and less than qualified people in various roles. I have had church leaders lie in my presence; be enraged for no reason; display a lack of holiness and the opposite of every aspect of the fruit of the spirit. I can name leaders who’s record would indicate that they have no business being in a leadership role, but they are. I’ve seen church politics, nepotism and the tit for tat happenings for years. You have your stories of bad leaders too. Still, we must all accept some responsibility for declining numbers.

Of course, it is harder to pastor these days. Yes, social media stinks. Our culture is circling the drain. There is an angst than has never existed. A recent poll says most young people have left the church because of church hypocrisy. You can read the survey here.  We know the survey is true, even casual observers have seen hypocrisy in the church. It’s harder to reach people these days. Who doesn’t know that? It does not negate this overwhelming truth: people still need Jesus. 

Are we doing everything we can to help people find Jesus? Are we working as if the King were coming tomorrow? Are we? Am I?

HONESTY ALERT: I can work harder. I can try more. I can pray more. I can and I must. You can too. This isn’t a guilt trip. It’s reality. People need Jesus. Lots of people need Jesus. The road is wide that leads to destruction (Jesus’ words, not mine). While we are doing more important things (that was sarcasm), people are dying without Him. There is nothing more important than people discovering Jesus. Nothing.

Past generations took evangelism seriously. We are not universalists (everyone makes it to heaven) but if our attitudes towards the lost and dying around us is an indicator we might as well be. All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. The wages of sin is death. Without holiness, no one will see the Lord. You know the verses. They are still true. 

Who is to blame for the lack of evangelism? We are. We all are. Don’t complain about the denomination, the GSs, the DSs or pastors. Take a plate of cookies to a neighbor and begin the long hard work of earning the right to share the good news of Jesus Christ!  Don’t be hypocritical. Live out a real, authentic faith, then invite friends to dinner or coffee and eventually church.

It’s not the pastor’s job alone to be an evangelist. It’s all of our job. What are we doing about our friends, neighbors and family members who are walking on the wide road. Past generations worked hard to get those folks on a different path, the narrow road. 

What are we going to do about it?

A Life to Imitate: Mary Lane (my mother-in-law)

On By Rob Prince2 Comments

My mother-in-law, Mary, is like a cat. The “nine lives” part (not the eating Meow Mix or using kitty litter part). Unfortunately, she is nearing the end of life #9. She hasn’t eaten or drank anything since Sunday. This isn’t a new happening. Three weeks ago she went a month without speaking and full week with no food or water (I didn’t think that was possible, but she did it). On that occasion, three different hospice nurses told us she wouldn’t live more than a day or two, then after a week in that condition, like a nine-life cat, she snapped out of it. 

I walked into the room, not expecting any response, and said, “Hi Mary! How are you doing?” 

She replied, “Oh OK.”

Wait. What? 

The last week and a half she’s been eating and drinking. She still was not talking much but she’d acknowledge our presence. We took her for ice cream one day. But that all stopped on Sunday. We are back to where we were three weeks ago. No eating. No drinking. Mostly out of it. 

Karla has beautifully cared for her folks nearly the entire time we’ve been back in Michigan. Upon moving here in the fall of 2013, we realized that her parents shouldn’t be alone. They moved in with us in the spring of 2014 (Karla’s dad had Alzheimer’s and her mom has dementia). That CRAZY TIME (all caps intended) lasted about seven months. Then they lived in a few different assisted living facilities. Arling was “promoted to glory” in January of 2018. Unless, my cat-like mother-in-law exhibits another life, Mary’s will join him in short order.  

No one in Flint has ever seen the “real” Mary. Back at the Reading Church of the Nazarene, she was Sunday School Superintendent, played the piano, sang “specials” and served as the Church Board Secretary. She and Arling were the pillars of that little church. 

They were a pastor’s dream. It’s no wonder one of their daughters is a Nazarene pastor’s wife (the best one in my slightly biased opinion) and Karla’s sister, Marla, is a faithful follower too. (You read that correctly. It’s Marla Kay and Karla May. HEALTH ALERT: No comment on their rhyming names or I might be next when the roll is called up yonder). 

It’s hard to grieve too deeply over Mary’s impending passing. Mary is ready for heaven. She hasn’t been herself for years. Karla has been saying “good bye” to her mom bit by painful bit. That’s the bad news of dementia, the good news of the Gospel is that Mary’s faith will soon be sight. John the Revelator said “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain” (Revelation 21:4). Imagine that! She will be so much better off in heaven.

There’s a part of me that is jealous. Eternal life with Jesus sounds so good! I understand what Paul meant when he said, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). Life here on earth is great and we have plenty of work to do, but heaven? Oh wow… even better. Mary is almost home. 

If Arling and Mary could talk they’d wouldn’t have many regrets and only praise for Jesus. No doubt their advice to the rest of us: Live lives in a manner to hear the Master’s words “Well done my good and faithful servant.” Arling and Mary lived such lives. Let’s do that too.

Why Have a Manual in the Church of the Nazarene If No One Follows It?

On By Rob Prince4 Comments

What is the purpose of the Manual?  Here’s my succinct, oversimplified definition on the purpose of the Church of the Nazarene’s Manual: “The Manual is how Nazarene’s interpret the Bible theologically and socially. Additionally, it is how the Church of the Nazarene tries to best organized itself to make Christ-like disciples in the nations.” That’s pretty much it. The Manual is not the Bible. It’s changed every four years. It’s our attempt to interpret the Bible in theology and life for our particular ecclesiastical organization for such a time as this.

From my vantage point, as the social media posters volleyed back and forth last week, it once again exposed the great divide within the Church of the Nazarene. There are some in our tribe that want a strict adherence to the Manual which (along with Jesus) is the same yesterday, today and forever. Others seemingly are of the opinion that a minister is free to think and act however one pleases regardless of the Manual’s directives. 

If the latter have their way, why have a Manual? If its words mean nothing and the clergy can disregard whatever section he/she pleases, whenever they please, why have the Manual? Are the Manual’s directives simply suggestions? If so, who picks and who chooses what we believe or don’t believe? Don’t call it a “manual” if that is the case. Call it: Some Nice Nazarene Ideas (take it or leave it).

If the former have their way,  the Manual turns into a dead document that leaves no room for discussion or conversation. Why have a General Assembly if there are no resolutions to debate; no discussions to be had; no changes to be made? Cancel your hotel reservations in Kansas City 2027, no need to go. 

Per my usual attempt, I advocate for neither extreme but a middle way. The Manual is more than a suggestion. It’s our agreed upon directive. Ordained ministers promise to abide within its pages. Should there be disagreement (and there may be times of disagreement), we need not be disagreeable. We need not air our dirty laundry on social media. We need not lambast leadership. We need not print or post disparaging comments against those with a differing opinion. Let’s have kind, godly discussions and think groups. Utilize the Global theological conference, PALCON, M-25, other conferences on all the regions, and provide “safe” events for charitable, theological conversations. We can pray together and seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance. We can suggest changes in a considerate manner desiring the Holy Spirit to move upon the collective body. Then as gather at a General Assembly, the delegates vote as the Holy Spirit directs.

Conversation is our friend, not the enemy. Let’s reason together and come to a place like in Acts 15 where following a theological debate James concluded, “it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us…” (Acts 15: 28). Isn’t that what we should be saying at the conclusion of every General Assembly? “It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us, that the Manual is our next four year agreed upon document.”

We need the Manual. We also need the Manual to be a living document filled with sanctified love.  It should be our unified document not our dividing rod. 

The Toughest Job in the Church of the Nazarene is NOT General Superintendent

On By Rob Prince4 Comments

The toughest job in the Church of the Nazarene is NOT General Superintendent. It’s not regional director, district superintendent or pastoring a large church. By far the most difficult job is university (or college… I’m looking at you in Quincy, MA) president. The difficulty lies in the fact that so many groups think they have a right to tell the president how to do the job. The list is long: faculty, students, staff, board of trustees, parents, general superintendents, the accrediting associations, the government, athletic governing bodies, local church pastors, fringe Nazarene groups like The Holiness Partnership and Nazarene’s for Peace, and a multitude of groups from outside the Church of the Nazarene. Everybody believes they have a right to the university president’s ear.

These vested voices are coupled with the burden of educating a student body who endured the pandemic, deals with social media pressures and life in these turbulent times. Ask any college (not just Nazarene) and they will tell you that their mental health services are being used at an all time high. Students feel the weight and pressure of college life like never before. Along with such realities come the societal stress aftermath (drugs, alcohol, depression, suicide) that offer the opposite of help. The college presidents’ job is much more complicated than simply educating young adults.  

Moreover the colleges are becoming less and less “Nazarene.” One school’s Nazarene student body population is 7%. It’s hard to maintain Nazarene identity when less and less students know anything about the Church of the Nazarene. (Olivet’s attempt to address this issue by offering a free four year tuition to the NYC senior class participants was well received by students and their families, not so well received by the other colleges. The “Olivet Way” was seen as pushing the other colleges out of the way). 

Of course, the other main issue (maybe the biggest issue) pressing on college presidents is money. It’s expensive to maintain a Christian university these days. There are less traditional college-age people in the population. Less students are attending college Less tuition means less money, yet inflation doesn’t stop. The pressure of keeping everything afloat is enormous. A Christianity Today article from 2023 stated that 18 Christian colleges closed since the pandemic. You can read the article here. A few more are on the brink of closing (including a Nazarene school? Who knows). The economics of a Christian university is challenging. 

Added to all of this the Church of the Nazarene is currently going through a shakeup in its university presidents. Olivet’s president began in 2021, Ambrose, Mount Vernon and Eastern installed new presidents in the past year; Point Loma is in the process of electing a new president; Northwest’s president has announced he will retire next year. MidAmerica and Trevecca both have presidents who are in their 70’s and will likely retire in the next few years. This change in leadership may not be bad. It will be different for each campus. Bringing in the right person is paramount for the school (obviously) but also for the denomination. 

All this to say, we need to be in prayer for the universities and their presidents. Christian higher education leadership is the toughest job in the Church of the Nazarene. The second toughest job is youth pastor (that’s a blog for another day).

College and Seminary President Prayer List:
Ambrose University— Rev. Dr. Bryce Ashlin-Mayo 
Eastern Nazarene College – Rev. Dr. Colleen Derr
MidAmerica Nazarene University—Dr. David Spittal
Mount Vernon Nazarene University—Dr. Carson D. Castleman
Olivet Nazarene University—Rev. Dr. Gregg Chenoweth
Northwest Nazarene University—Dr. Joel K. Pearsall
Point Loma Nazarene University– TBD
Southern Nazarene University– Rev. Dr. Keith Newman
Trevecca Nazarene University—Rev. Dr. Dan Boone
Nazarene Bible College—Rev. Dr. Scott Sherwood
Nazarene Theological Seminary—Rev. Dr. Jeren Rowell

What if Pastors (including DSs) were Compensated Equally?

On By Rob Prince4 Comments

Could Acts 4:32-34 be applied to the way we operate our churches today? The plural use of “churches” is intentional because this passage and the one in 2 Corinthians is often applied to a “church” (singular). But what if the verse was applied to multiple churches on an entire Nazarene district or (or if I were really radical) across denominational lines.

All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them. (Acts 4:32-34)

The Macedonian churches were applying the activity of Acts 4 way beyond their local setting. Paul wrote how the Macedonians responded to the financial crisis of the Jerusalem church: In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own,they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people (2 Corinthians 8:2-4). 

Have you seen any churches (not those in “extreme poverty” like the Macedonians, but any church, anywhere) welling up with rich generosity, not for their own wants and desires but, for a church down the road? Have you seen them giving “beyond their ability” to give to bless another church? Have you seen any church “pleading… for the privilege” to give to another church? Raising money not so that local church could build a nicer sanctuary, but raising monies so the church down the road could keep their sanctuary doors open or provide a living wage for its pastor. 

Radical Idea Alert: What if churches across a district or region pooled their monies and every pastor was compensated equally. What if we compensated faithfulness or years of service or academic achievement. What if size didn’t matter. While we are at it, what if District Superintendents were included in the same salary pool. They were likewise compensated on years of faithful service just like every other pastor on the district. No more. No less. 

Back-to-reality Alert: Who’s kidding who? In the first century preachers were not getting paid (don’t tell Karla) and there were no church mortgages or sound systems or denominations or… well… you get the idea. We all agree there are differences between the 1st and the 21st century. But what if we shared a little more than we do? Collaborated a little better. Prayed together more often. What if churches and pastors acted more like teammates rather than competitors. What if instead of becoming territorial if another church is planted in one’s area, we rejoiced. What if some churches had food pantries and other churches in the same area distributed baby supplies or helped out with utility bills. 

What if churches shared people resources too. What if musicians or singers or masons and carpenters would freely work at churches other than their own. What if pastors in stronger churches were willing to step in and help in creative ways with struggling churches. What if church folks stopped being/thinking like the rest of the world with a “me first,” “my family first,” “my church first,” or “my country first” selfish mindset and instead had a kingdom mindset of rich generosity to all. 

Maybe the New Testament church got some things right (minus the hot mess known as “Corinth First Church”). Maybe, just maybe, if churches today were blessing others, like the church in Acts 4 or the Macedonian churches, God’s grace would powerfully be at work in all our churches. 

Only 49 USA/Canada Nazarene Pastors Are Under 30— A Few Suggestions to Address the Problem

On By Rob Prince6 Comments

On January 1, 1990 Karla and I packed everything we owned into a U-Haul and drove from Alanson, Michigan (where I had been the youth pastor) to Bad Axe, Michigan. It would be my first church as a solo pastor. I was 26 years old. By today’s standards, I would have been a rarity.

There are 4,331 lead pastors in the Church of the Nazarene in USA/Canada, only 49 lead/solo pastors are under 30 years old. Moreover, just 10.1% of the pastors are under 40; where as 40.1% are over 60.* These statistics lead one to ask several questions:

  • Is God not calling young people into ministry these days?  
  • Are young people not heeding the call?
  • Do would-be, young Nazarene pastors disagree Nazarene theology and polity**
  • What is happening and what will happen when these old pastors start retiring if there is no one to replace them? 

Clearly, the dwindling of young pastors is a problem. What can be done to increase the total of ministers under 40? It begins in middle school, maybe earlier. Here are a few suggestions:

Pastors modeling Christlike behavior. Seeing more young people called into ministry begins with healthy pastors modeling before the congregation a life in the Spirit and a joy in the calling of God. 

Preacher’s talking about the joys of pastoring. Not every assignment is a joy, but faithful pastoring is rewarding. Being able to share the joys new babies in baptism or dedication; experiencing the new birth of a young teenager in Christ; having the best “seat” in the house for weddings; helping families through the rough patches of life; and saying the closing words at the funeral of a saint are the joys of pastoring that cannot be overstated. Good, godly pastors are the best antidote for more pastors.

Parents/grandparents speaking kindly and appreciative of those in the ministry. Much of a young person’s knowledge of the ministry comes from what is spoken about the clergy in their home. Gossip, backbiting and hateful words are heard and remembered by children. Likewise, kind, appreciative words go a long way in establishing a respect for the ministry.

Professors speaking favorably of pastoral ministry. In particular, speaking positively and expressing the need for small town pastor in the college classroom. Many ministry majors have been steered away from pastoral ministry from the horror stories heard in the university. “Small town or small churches are small for a reason,” they’ve been told; “people are stuck in their ways; they won’t listen to a young pastor;” and “a small church will eat you up and spit you out.” Such lessons, while may be true is some cases, but do not help encourage those 30 and under to become small town/small church pastors.

The denomination could offer the elimination student debt for ministers of small churches. Making pastoring a small church more affordable should be a priority for the denomination. Getting creative with funding of small churches is essential. Many churches have unloaded their parsonages in the last twenty years and now cannot afford to pay a young pastor (often saddled with debt) a living full time salary.

Districts setting up small town/small church grants could also assist with making small church pastoral assignments affordable. Districts could set up funds to assist pastors salaries or health insurance costs. This is not a totally new concept. When I was pastoring Bad Axe, the district paid half our health insurance, since the church could not afford it. Similar incentive plans to assist small churches which would help in the recruitment and retention of pastors in smaller settings. Most districts have enough excess funds to afford an incentive program. 

Church members recognizing they have two choices: get younger or die. Choose the former, then do whatever it takes to convince a young pastor to come to the church and then do whatever it takes to support that pastor. Choose the latter, do nothing and watch the church die a slow agonizing death.

Sadly too often young people have been given a negative picture of small churches from bad pastors, gossip in their homes, negativity from some college professors, the lack of affordability and have decided, “Thanks but no thanks.”  Churches must be willing to turn over the keys (and purse strings) to a new generation of pastors; district superintendents must be willing to endorse and support young pastors; and young men and women must heed the ministerial calling or there won’t be a church to turn over to the coming generations. 

*The numbers only reflect lead/solo pastors. There are plenty of pastors who serve as associate pastors in some capacity who are under the ager of 30. Some of them will become lead/solo pastors. Still 49 pastors under the age of 30 seems like an absurdly low number. 

**The argument that 30 and under people have disagreements with our theology and/or politics of many people in the churches seems more antidotal than factual. For example, many young people agree with the church’s traditional Biblical position regarding human sexuality. They don’t support with the all-too-often posture toward those who disagree. They don’t like the anger and hatred spewed. Many love Jesus and the church. 

Why I Choose to Stay Nazarene

On By Rob Prince7 Comments

I was saved in a Nazarene church. Called to preach on a Nazarene campground. Sanctified while attending a Nazarene college. I graduated from a Nazarene college and the Nazarene seminary. The Church of the Nazarene is the church who ordained me. My first job with a real paycheck was at a Nazarene campground. Except for a brief time when I was working at a Presbyterian church while in seminary, every paycheck I have received from the age of 19 forward has been from a Nazarene institution (summer intern in college; worked at the library and in admissions while attending college; worked for the Nazarene Publishing House for two years in seminary; and of course pastoring in six different Nazarene churches). If not for the summer intern position, I would not have met my wife (she was transferred to the local airport for the summer, while I summer interned in the church). Both my sons and their wives are graduates of Nazarene universities. All of my siblings and their spouses are Nazarene institution grads. All their kids went to a Nazarene college too. I owe a lot to the Church of the Nazarene in other words. A. Very. Lot.

But that doesn’t mean that I have blind loyalty. Like everyone with even a passing interest, I see the divides within the church. There are various factions within the church—on the far left, the far right and nutty folks somewhere in the middle. I have friends who’ve left on their own accord and others who were pushed out. I know very capable individuals who have been overlooked for leadership positions, while much less qualified people were pushed to the front. Politics, bad theology, nepotism, greed and pettiness have all infected the church at various times. As a global denomination, I see the challenges in keeping unity across international borders. During last year’s General Assembly, I heard gossip from the floor of the assembly and in social media posts and I saw first-hand its malicious undergirding. I see her faults in other words. The Church of the Nazarene isn’t perfect.

Still I am a Nazarene. I love this church. I will work, pray and do all I can to help her. For me that means working in the local church. Doing all I can to enable this local outpost of the Church of the Nazarene to being a bright shining light in its community. In my opinion, it is. 

If you are reading this, you probably know I write a lot. Some golf, I write. But you won’t read me bashing the church I love. You won’t see me hypercritical of decisions made (even decisions I completely disagree with). Why? I have a debt to her. I want to help her, not tear her down. There are ways to see positive change. Condemning or attacking on social media is not one of them. I love the church. I want her better. I want her to remain true to P.F. Bresee’s vision in the footsteps of William Greathouse and Mildred Wynkoop and so many others. I will work toward that end. I hope you stay and will join me. 

I want to live holiness. Working locally. Praying globally. Staying focused. Being positive. Promoting unity. Encouraging others. Loving people. Making disciples. I will be with her to my ending days when a Nazarene preacher prays the benediction at my funeral service.

The Church of the Nazarene is stuck with me. I choose to stay.

Is JB Chapman Rolling Over in His Grave?

On By Rob Prince5 Comments

The 2024 Eastern Michigan District Assembly Journal had been distributed. The reports aren’t great. 

30% of churches on the district reported no conversions this year. Zero. 
46% of the churches reported no baptisms. Zippo. 
50% reported no New Nazarenes. Nadda.

If a body had no pulse (no conversions); no blood pressure (no baptisms); and no brain activity (no new Nazarenes), we would conclude that the body is dead or at least dying. 

Hey Lenexa, call hospice. The Church of the Nazarene is in trouble. 
Call the weed control company, the grassroots of the Church of the Nazarene are in the briar patch.
Call the WWE scriptwriters, the Church is on its back, and the referee is about to slap the mat for a third time.

Pick any “We’re-in-trouble” metaphor and that is us.

At least our cemetery has company, the Southern Baptists just reported that 43% of their churches reported no baptisms. You can read it here. Whoopie, we are not alone.

Blame the culture. Blame past church abuse. Blame politics. Blame Covid. Blame whatever you want, the truth of the matter is that churches (no matter the brand) in America are not fulfilling the Great Commission (see Matthew 28:19-20).  We aren’t making disciples (30% no conversions); we aren’t baptizing (46% no baptisms); we aren’t teaching (50% no new Nazarenes). 

So what are we doing? Why do we exist if we aren’t fulfilling what Jesus called us to do? 

In 1946, JB Chapman was disheartened by the state of the Church of the Nazarene and published a little booklet titled, “All out for Souls.” You can read it here.  In it he wrote: 

“Brethren, I was born in the fire, and I cannot endure the smoke. I am a child of the bright daylight, and mists and fogs and depressing gloom are not to my liking. I want to go all out for souls… 
“I want a revival that, like a summer shower, will purify the atmosphere of our churches everywhere, and which will awake the dormant forces of our people young and old. I want something so general and so divine that it will be uncontrollable. I want something that will reemphasize old-time moral and spiritual conditions…
“Something that will make this namby-pamby, soft-handed, compromising, cringing sort of holiness as obsolete as Phariseeism was on the Day of Pentecost.” 

If JB Chapman was saying that in 1946, what would he say if he were looking over the sorry state of many of today’s churches?  Once again we must “go all out for souls!” Once more we need to be revived. If not now, then when?  We can’t look at the reality and be unmoved. We must do something. Anything. It takes going all out for souls once more.  

And He said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?”
So I answered, “O Lord God, You know.”
Again He said to me, “Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, ‘O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! Thus says the Lord God to these bones: “Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live. Ezekiel 37:3-5

Why Nazarenes should be in Prayer for Haiti

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

As you may have seen in the news, the nation of Haiti is in utter turmoil. The Prime Minister, Ariel Henry, has agreed to step down and gangs rule much of its capital of Port-au-Prince.  These gangs have attacked the main prison to help thousands of inmates escape. The head of the UN’s World Food Program in Haiti, Jean-Martin Bauer, said on Monday that more than 360,000 people had now been displaced. The situation is dire. You can read a recent description here.

You may also recall, Haiti has endured numerous difficulties in the last 20 years. The country underwent a 2004 coup d’état, a catastrophic earthquake in 2010 killed over 250,000 people, and their last prime minister was assassinated 2021. The murders have not been apprehended. Haiti suffers from a shortage of skilled labor, widespread unemployment, and underemployment. Most Haitians in the labor force have informal jobs. Three-quarters of the population lives on US$2 or less per day. Haiti in the most populous Caribbean country, but also the poorest. There is widespread hunger.

Besides the obvious humanitarian crisis and suffering, why should Nazarenes be extra concerned and more diligent in our prayers?  Simple– Haiti has more Nazarene’s per capita than any other nation on earth. There are more Nazarene churches and higher church membership in Haiti than any one of the USA regions.* The nation is the size of Maryland and has 755 churches (Maryland has 64). In fact, Haiti has more Nazarene churches than the COMBINED total of one third of the 165 countries that the Church of the Nazarene is registered in including Canada, Great Britain, Australia, New Zealand.**

Haiti’s difficulties are vast and complex. There is not an easy remedy. A recent article in Ministry Watch outlines the evangelical response here. Good hearted, Christian short-term missions  from the USA may have hurt more than helped and new strategies should be examined and employed.***  Still Haiti is half the distance from Key West (720 miles) as is New York City (1434 miles). It’s on the USA/Canada doorstep. Nazarenes in USA/Canada cannot imagine the suffering our Nazarene brothers and sisters are enduring. 

Help begins with vision and prayer. Familiarize yourself with the issues in Haiti and pray informatively on how Nazarenes from around the globe might offer a creative and godly response to the suffering. Pray for the Field Strategy Coordinator, Rev. Pierre Antoine and  Emmanise Jacques and the 12 districts in Haiti. Pray for the 755 churches and the Haiti Nazarene Theological Seminary. But especially pray for the 147,182 members and fellowship Nazarene members (and all the attendees who are not members)—our brothers and sisters who are in grave danger, fighting malnutrition with a very uncertain future.  

Haitian Nazarenes are in trouble. They need us. They need our prayer. Take time when you gather to lift up our brother and sisters and consider an offering through NCM as they strategize the best steps forward.  

*Haiti has 755 churches. The closest USA region in the Southeast region (TNU) with 724. The Southeast region also has the most members and fellowship members of any USA region, but that TNU region is still over 50,000 members/fellowship members behind Haiti. 

**Haiti has 755 churches. The combined total of churches in the following 56 countries that the Church of the Nazarene is registered in is 752. Canada (145), Great Britain (69), Australia (31), New Zealand (29), Solomon and Principle (5), Equatorial Guinea (7), Burundi (16); South Sudan (19); Botswana (11); Sierra Leone (8); Senegal (3); Hong Kong (3); Mongolia (7); Taiwan (43); Solomon Islands (14); Vanuatu (5); Micronesia (6); Singapore (1); Timor-Leste (1); Fiji (21); Samoa (17); Cambodia (21); Thailand (31); Albania (6); Bulgaria (5) Croatia (1); Hungry (3); North Macedonia (0); Romania (3); Scandinavia (4); Egypt (0); Holy Land (4); Jordan (12); Lebanon (4); Syria (5); Armenia (4); Kazakhstan (8); Russia (15); Ukraine (12); Germany (10); Ireland (1); Luxemburg (0); Netherlands (12); Switzerland (1); France (9); Italy (6); Madeira Islands (0); Portugal (20); Spain (9); Bahamas (15); Curacao (0); Dominica (7); French Antilles and French Guiana (17); Virgin Islands (15); Suriname (7); Winward Islands (16)

***Flint Central Church has tried to avoid these issues by partnering with Panama with a wholistic approach in providing medical care/vision/spiritual care on two thirds of the yearly mission trips. Working with both NCM Panama and missional leaders, Central Church is currently building a medical clinic which will be managed and run by Panamanians. Plans are in the works for Panamanians to likewise come to Michigan for a mission trip experience in Flint. This approach is designed to avoid a “Voluntourism” mindset and truly a missional/partnership venture.  

When I was in Gaza

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

How much should the church say in response to complicated world issues? When should the church speak and when should the church be silent? James wrote, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak” (James 1:19). Jesus didn’t speak out against Roman aggression and violence. He wasn’t holding protest rallies at Herod’s Palace following the beheading of John the Baptist. When and how much should the church speak into the matters in our world. This is especially complicated in a global denomination like the Church of the Nazarene. The world is complicated.

Nazarenes leaders and publications formerly took a stand in USA national politics. The October 26, 1960 issue of the Herald of Holiness had several articles (including those written from notable Nazarenes such as General Superintendent Hugh Benner, WT Purkiser, Kenneth Grider and C. William Fisher) written about being Protestant and not voting for a Roman Catholic. The articles were clearly siding with Richard Nixon in the 1960 US election. No one would want Bonnie Perry and the Holiness Today leadership involving themselves in the upcoming USA presidential election in such a manner. We want them to stay out of politics. Still there are times to speak out regarding world events. 

Desmond Tutu, a South African Anglican bishop, said, “If an elephant has its foot on the tail of a mouse and you say that you are neutral, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality.” In other words, there are circumstances that demand a call to action. There are times when one can no longer be silent. 

The atrocities in Gaza are such a time. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told lawmakers last Thursday that Israel had killed more than 25,000 Palestinian women and children since October. When does one say enough is enough?  How much killing is enough? How many innocent people need to die before we say we can no longer support such actions. The October atrocities of Hamas (1,139 Israelis and foreign nationals—including 764 civilians– killed and 248 persons taken hostage) are horrific and have been rightly condemned. Hamas is an evil, terrorist organization and the release of the remaining hostages should be demanded. Other Arab and predominantly Muslim nations should join in demanding release of the hostages. Even so, the church must add its voice and call for immediate humanitarian action in Gaza. The Church of the Nazarene Manual has statements regarding the value of children and youth (Paragraph 921) and coincidently the next paragraph (922) is a statement regarding war and military service and a plea for peace. The Manual demands it’s members protect children and to call for an end to the of violence. It demands us saying, “Enough is enough.” 

Will the 2023/2024 church be standing before the throne of God one day saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ (Matthew 25:37-39). 

To which He will reply, “When I was in Gaza.”