en http://www.visalianaz.org © Copyright 2000 - 2010Church Community Builder. All Rights Reserved. http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34&article_id=959 Exodus 3:1-12 March 7th, 2010 Pastor Michael DeBoef MP3 file Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:41:36 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=962 Rev. Michael Deboef, 734-1117 ext. 28 Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:34 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=863 Edith Cannon, (559) 734-1117 Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=585 Roberta Hinkle, (559) 734-1117 Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=583 Christy Canafax, (559) 734-1117 Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=584 Cindy Cardey, (559) 734-1117 Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=587 Dee Flynn, (559) 734-1117 Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=588 Juanteece Chism, (559) 734-1117 Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=327 Mike and Carrie Murphy, (559) 734-1117, ext.16 Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=187 Joyce Clays, (559) 734-1117 Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=146 Joy Ribeiro, (559) 734-1117, ext. 11, Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=57 Sor See, (559) 734-1117, ext. 31 Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=59 Dan Boswell, (559) 734-1117, ext. 30 Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=60 Harry Brooks, (559) 734-1117, ext. 13 Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=52 Dave Spaite, (559) 734-1117, ext. 19 Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=19 Wil Hobbs, (559) 734-1117, ext. 15 Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=20 Jimmy Dickenson, (559) 734-1117, ext. 12 Email Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:23:12 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=53 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=53&article_id=75 Some insight into the early history of the Visalia Church of the Nazarene is contained in a paragraph in the Annual Report of Rev. Roy F. Smee, District Superintendent of the then Northern California District. It is recorded in the 1933 Minutes as follows: "Early last fall the vision for a church in Visalia, the county seat of Tulare County, came to Brother D.C. McKisson. He, together with Brother Rolland E. Griffith and the fine folks at Hanford, pitched a tent and started in. For three months they battled on. The other neighboring churches assisted, and within a few months we were able to organize a fine group of people into a church. The work has continued to grow until now they have a membership of 35, with a Sunday School enrollment of 85. What has been accomplished at Visalia has been largely due to the wisdom, vision, and devotion of Brother and Sister McKisson. They have virtually hewed out a kingdom for themselves. What they have done should be a challenge to every young man entering the ministry. Brethren, IT CAN BE DONE!" An outgrowth of a tent meeting, the little group of 13 charter members was organized as the First Church of the Nazarene in September, 1932. The first building owned by the church was a two story house at 307 W. School Street, serving as the church and living quarters of the pastor and family, Rev. D.C. McKisson. The original building was started in 1933 at the corner of West and Murray Streets. Donated labor, second hand building materials, prayers, faith and sacrificial giving became the order of the day. Because the people had a vision, the building was possible. In June, 1936, Rev. Harold Olsen accepted the call to Visalia and pastored for one year. In 1937, Rev. Joe Jamison and family came to labor in love for five years. His carpentry talents, as well as his capable pastoral abilities brought many improvements to the church. Rev. Fred Schumacher came in 1942, renting a parsonage in order to free the entire church building for Sunday School use. These were war years, yet the church saw strong growth, reaching record Sunday School attendance of 280. In 1944, a call was extended to a young couple just out of Pasadena College, Rev. & Mrs. Eugene Stowe. A parsonage was purchased and a strong outreach and community influence became apparent. It was during Rev. Stowe's pastorate that the church annex was built. 1947 found Rev. & Mrs. Ellsworth Nothstine accepting First Church. During this time, the parsonage was sold in order to purchase the 501 N. Floral property. Without complaint, the Nothstines moved into the lower floor of this property. In 1949, Rev. & Mrs. Stephen Bennett accepted the call as pastor. During their good ministry, the sanctuary was built, as well as more adjoining property purchased. Upon the Bennett's resignation, Rev. C.W. Perry came, only to stay a few months. January of 1955 found Rev. & Mrs. Don Lammers beginning over a decade of progress for First Church. Remodeling parking lots, new parsonage, Sunday School annex—it was a busy and fruitful time for the church. The church grew in numbers and God blessed the church. 1972 brought Rev. Ken Bryant as pastor to Visalia. Rev. & Mrs. Bryant both gave of themselves in a great way, bringing the church to purchase the present facilities. The property, Mrs. Gladys Cooper and Point Loma Nazarene College was of invaluable help. Construction began under Rev. Bryant's leadership in June 1980. April 1984 brought Rev. Leon Hendrix as pastor. The church began a year of miracles, as the old property on Floral was sold and construction was renewed and completed. Under the direction of Pastor Leon Hendrix the church moved from the Floral Street location to its present location on Caldwell in Southwest Visalia in 1985. As construction progressed, God continued to bless the church with growth and new leadership. Rev. Terry Schneider was called to the church in March of 1992. Soon the congregation was numbering over 500 and the need to expand the present worship center became apparent. Construction began in 1991 on the addition of a new 700 seat multi-purpose worship center/gymnasium. New parking lots were added and a new youth facility was completed from the former "Bus Barn" to house our rapidly growing youth program. Upon completion of the new worship center, we were able to host a variety of large outreach events. In June of 2001, another chapter in the history of Visalia Nazarene Church began as Rev. Shawn Siegfreid leads our church into the new millennium. In 2008 we stepped forward and began the construction of a new youth facility. The new youth facility was completed in 2009. In March of 2010, we welcomed Rev. Michael DeBoef to lead our church in a dynamic return to a church he served for 4 years as our youth pastor. His first weekend was celebrated with an attendance of over 1500. We are excited to see what God has in store for us in the days ahead. Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:20:47 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=66 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=66&article_id=961 We are currently accepting registrations for Indoor Soccer! Ages PreK-5th grade PreK/Kindergarten - play Saturday Mornings 1st & 2nd grade- Friday night or Saturday morning (You choose either Fri. or Sat.) 3rd - 5th grade -Play Tuesday Nights We are filling up fast! Please visit our church office to register: Tuesday-Friday 9:00am - 4:00pm 3333 West Caldwell Avenue Visalia, California 93277 Caldwell/Demaree (Across from the Home Depot) 559-734-2629 Sun, 7 Mar 2010 13:01:13 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=960 On Sunday March, 7th 2010 we welcome our new Lead Pastor, Michael DeBoef and family back to Visalia Naz. Thank you so much to our congregation for your support & prayers through this transition period. We are exctied to see what God has in store for us! Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:30 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=953 "The vote was 93% in favor of calling our pastoral candidate. The ballots were counted and affirmed by our board. We are not including the name in hopes that our candidate has time to inform his current congregation of his intent first. Please refrain from posting his name on the internet and in email until Jan 31. We will announce timeline as soon as that is available. Thank you for your patience and participation in the process through prayer, thoughtful questions, and support of the board and search committee. Please continue to pray as we enter a new year and new season of our journey as a church family." Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=950 Questions asked by you and answered by our Pastoral CandidatePastoral Comments & Questions QuestionsWhat are your plans for our youth on Saturday Night? I love how the youth are doing ministry in the Sat. night service. I'd like that to continue. Finding an adult to do a small group after the service seems to make a lot of sense. Maybe our teens could take turns teaching a lesson. Since you were a youth pastor, do you feel that you can pastor adults too? That was the question I had before I pastured New Hope. I discovered that pastoring is pasturing. It might look a little different, but the same principles of listening to God, being shaped by the word of God and caring for people apply. In your Facebook profile you list "Blue Like Jazz" as one of your top 3 books. Why? What about Donald Miller's books do you like? I love books that make me think. I don't agree with everything Donald Miller writes, in fact I usually disagree with a portion of most of the books I read, however, Blue Like Jazz gave me some very valuable insight in how I should live out my faith. There are times that I am tempted to make my faith very "ritualistic". One of the many things I do and then check off my list. It has been 2 years sense reading that book and I probably need to update my profile, however, I do remember being challenged by Donald's authenticity and his call to love as Christ loved. I have some concerns about the Emerging /Emerging Church movement....What is your stand on the E.C. and how much emphasis do/will you place on salvation and the role sin plays in being an obstacle to it (salvation)? Emerging Church is like most movements in that it is difficult to define. At it's very core it's asking, what will the church look like in the future? There are, as you can guess, many different opinions. In my opinion the church will always be changing its method but must remain consistent in its message. What I do appreciate about some of the "E.C." books I've read is that they put a great deal of emphasis in the process/journey of salvation, which is very Wesleyan/Nazarene. Of course we emphasis the need for salvation and the reality that salvation comes through Christ, available to all and must be accepted. However, just like the wedding doesn't make the marriage, the sinner's prayer doesn't make the disciple of Christ. How would you arrange the worship service, with regard to music & preaching: 1. How many songs or minutes of music do you want? 2. How many minutes of preaching do you want? Also, how much input will you want as to the style of music in the service? I would work with Jimmy and the Worship Arts team to design a powerful and purposeful worship service. I imagine Sundays will vary quite a bit depending upon our theme and activities of that Sunday. In regards to preaching, I rarely go much longer than 25 minutes. I think that's enough time to get a point across. As far as worship styles, input is always appreciated. Are you going to continue altar calls? Please consider continuing this important act. Yes, altar calls will always be an important part of our Worship service. What would be your first goals (top 3) if you became the Senior Pastor? Why are these your top 3 priorities?I think that I'd start by trying to get to know the terrain. This should come quicker to me because of my time in Visalia before, however, this will be a new role for me and I need to connect with the staff and board and talk about goals, dreams and expectations. One of my goals is to be sure that we are fully staffed. I will start addressing the need for a youth pastor. I also would like to make sure I'm familiar with the assimilation procedures of the church. I'm sure there's going to be a lot on my plate, but these are a few things that I would put priority on. How soon can you get here? X2 Probably the first of MarchAre you going to use the "Lectern" for your message basis each week? Thanks.That is what I'm comfortable with, however, there will be certain times where I'll preach topically and there will be times when God has impressed upon my heart to introduce a "preaching series".Is there anything you would change about Visalia Naz? If so, what? How would you implement this change?It's hard for me to say because I'm not sure what has changed over the last 16 months. Most churches need to do a better job of tracking people, assimilating people, training people and then freeing people to do ministry. A church's greatest assets are it's volunteer's. I would guess that recruiting and equipping volunteers are two areas of need in Visalia. My hope is that every Visalia Naz member would be involved in a discipleship group and doing ministry. How do we do that? I think we start by making expectations clear and continue a culture of volunteerism.Why do you want to come back to Visalia Naz? What happened at your last church? It seems like you just left Visalia. Is it right to leave New Hope when you have only been there a year and they are a church that needs you? Welcome Back! We loved Vislia Naz and this is a great opportunity to pastor an amazing church. Things are good at New Hope. We are beginning the process of transition. The leadership is excited for me and grateful for the year I committed to the church. I learned a lot at New Hope, I feel I'm more mature and experience now. I think New Hope will be good. Everywhere I've been I make a point doing my part to build the "Kingdom of God" and not the "Kingdom of Michael". It's not about me.Pastor Shawn had a lot of experiences, both positive and negative, both of what he did right and what he did wrong, that he brought to his ministry here. What experiences does our former youth pastor have that qualifies him to be our lead pastor? Timothy had Paul as his mentor. Who is Pastor Mike's mentor? Wow! We'll, my experience as a Senior Pastor is limited but I've always been a fast learner. I have always looked for people to mentor me. I feel that this is the best way to grow and mature. I have sat under some very amazing mentors. I'll always look to my father for advices about life. While at New Hope I found 3 men that have served as my ministry mentors and accountability partners. If I become the pastor of Visalia Naz, I'll actively seek out men that would be willing to mentor me. Having only been a Pastor for a little more than a year, what confidence do you have that your experienced enough to take on a large church like this? I'm confident in the people that will be partnering with me to lead Visalia Naz. If I felt that it was up to me to steer and power this large church I'd jump on a boat and head to Tarsus. However, I'm confident in my calling and I believe God is directing this. How can you counsel married couples that have been married for years, when you have only been married for a short time and only 33?Yeah, counseling has never really been my spiritual gift. I can listen, pray for and give Godly advice but I might not be your best bet if you need a lot of marriage counseling. Why do you feel that now is the time to leave the church in Kansas City?I feel that this whole process has been lead by God, who am I to say no to where God leads.What problems or benefits do you see in coming in as a lead pastor when you were previously the youth pastor?That is a question I had when I received the call to Visalia Naz was whether or not the people would see me as the lead pastor or would they still see me as the youth pastor. Maybe the move away might be long enough for people to view me differently. In many ways, being on staff previously really gives me an advantage in that I know the church, I know the staff, I know the town, ect.I know you have shared your heart is in youth-how are you planning on embracing the rest of the body here at Visalia Naz?I'll be authentically "me". I'll preach and shepherd from what God is doing in my life.What are your thoughts on an unpaid member of leadership having a glass of wine or beer with dinner? Not getting drunk, just having a drink...I would have to know more information. I don't think these kinds of questions are nearly as black and white as some like to make it.How do you feel about the homeless population? In what ways would you address it?I'm against homelessness. I feel God has given Visalia Naz a lot and we must not give a blind eye or a depth ear to any of the felt needs we see in Tulare County. Where did you go to school to become a preacher and how long have you been a preacher?Preaching is a calling and a gift. Some of the best preachers I've heard didn't go to any formal "preaching" school. However, like any gift, preaching is something that should be fine-tuned. I went to College and majored in "Theology" and I went to Nazarene Theological Seminary and earned my masters in Divinity. That being said, I am constantly trying to educate and fine-tune this gift that God has given me. One of the best things I've been doing lately is watching and listening to myself. This is sometime painful and very educational.Having been a youth pastor here will it be difficult to give as much attention to other ages as the teens? The way I can use my gifts to the greatest effectiveness will be in preaching and raising up leaders. I can't imagine I'll be as available to the church as I was to the youth. I will have to be disciplined to avoid becoming, as one of my mentors put it, "a quivering mass of availability".Are you open to suggestions from members?I'm always open to new ideas or suggestions.What books, journals, websites do you read regularly?I read a lot of leadership books, preaching magazines and the sports page.Who is/was your most influential person and how/why?My father. He's just so wise and kind.Please describe your sanctification. How, when, etc.I believe that sanctification is as simple as loving the Lord with all your heart, soul and mind and loving your neighbor as yourself. Sanctification is a process. Of course we as Nazarenes believe there is a time, after salvation that a person must decide whether they are going to offer themselves wholly to God, this is often referred to as the second act of grace or entire-sanctification. I feel that the moment I was called into ministry was the moment I decided to follow God wholly. God is still doing his work in my life, in fact, the more I grow the more I'm aware of just how much more I need to grow. Please describe your calling to ministry specifically Senior Pastor.While in Visalia working with the youth, I started to feel that God had a change in store for me. I still loved working with youth, but I started to be a little more interested in working with the parents of our youth and with the adults that worked with our youth. I could tell that my interests and possibly my calling was changing. I wasn't sure how to handle this, because I still loved youth ministry. I was feeling this for about 2 years before I acted on it. I wanted to be certain. I knew quite a few people that were youth pastors before becoming Senior Pastors and I sought their advice. Eventually, I knew that this is the direction God was taking me. What is your wife's role in your home?Her calling is to our family. She's a great mommy and wife. Please describe your typical week. (Exercise, family, study time, administrative, etc)I like to stay in shape; I work out and I love to play basketball. I'll try to reserve 5 of the 7 nights a week for my family. I spend 4-8 hours a week in sermon prep. I usually spend 4-6 hours a week in staff development and meetings. I have discovered that I spend anywhere between 5-10 hours a week on planning, preparing and examining the churches systems. I spend 10-15 hours a week in pastoral calling, much of that time is given to visitors. I usually set aside an hour a day for spiritual disciplines. Will you bring back the Freedom Celebration? Please! JI thought the Freedom Celebration was good for our church and town. We'll see what the options are. Sometimes it takes more than just wanting to do it.How do you plan on making the transition from being a former peer or co-worker with the other staff, to being their leader?That's a good question and I've spent a great deal of time thinking about that. I think it'll be important to make expectations clear (both, them of me and me of them) and make sure there is good communication. I think it'll be good.Do you believe God is who he says he is? Yes What is your commitment to:1. Wednesday Night (mid-week) Service? They're good but Jimmy might continue carrying the teaching load, we'll see.2. Sunday Night Service? I'll support what is currently going on.3. Full Gospel-open altar at service? We'll absolutely continue altar calls.4. Blend of all types of music (contemporary & traditional) I think that a blend is good.5. Heart for unsaved & missionary work-local and abroad Visalia Naz has always had a heart for the lost and a commitment to mission and this will not change. Trivia What is your favorite NFL team and college football team? Chiefs and HawkeyesWhat is your favorite color? X2 BlueWhat is your favorite NBA Basketball team and college? Cavs and Hawkeyes As Lead Pastor, can we be confident that your fly will ALWAYS be zipped on stage? Can't guarantee anything, haha Will you take it easy under the basket with Konner at Family Camp? Never Has the Lord ever placed you in a trash cistern in Mexico? And why? HAHA I just told that story to a friend 2 weeks ago Dodgers or Giants? Dodgers Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=940 Sunday, January 10th, at church I announced the name of our pastoral candidate to the congregation. Next weekend, on Sunday, January 17th our candidate will preach . On Sunday, January 24th, members of Visalia Naz will vote on whether or not they will accept the pastoral candidate brought to them by the search committee/board. Why have I neglected to put his name out in cyberspace? Because he still has a ministry and that ministry needs to continue, until his role at our church is official (after the vote on the 24th). Please attend next weekend if you wish to meet him and hear him preach. Also, now that his name has been announced, I implore you to refrain from putting the name on facebook, e-mailing or calling friends in the denomination in other cities/states, and please continue to pray for God's hand in this process. This is an exciting time for our congregation and I am eager to see what God has in store for us. God bless you and keep you, Brian Monty, Board Chair Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=938 Greetings, I bring you tidings of great joy! (Just had to throw that in being so close to CHRISTmas and all). Anyway, I do have some great news: after much prayer, deliberation, discussion and many meetings the board has come up with a candidate to present to the church for a vote to be our next lead pastor. Are you ready for the name? I bet, however, that is not going to be disclosed yet. Here is how the process will proceed from this point. On January 10th will announce the name of the pastor. On the 17th that pastor will preach and meet the congregation at Visalia Naz. On the 24th, 2 weeks after his name is announced per Nazarene policy, all church members will cast on vote on whether or not to call this pastor to the position of Visalia Naz lead pastor. In the time before the announcement, please to not ask who the candidate will be or throw out fishing questions to gain information. I know there is already chatter and guessing, however this name, or the names of other candidates, cannot be released in order to protect other ministries. When Pastor Shawn was called to Denver, an innocent posting on Facebook and the church website revealed his name a week before he announced his leaving to our congregation. Many were hurt, and I, along with the rest of the board and search committee, am trying very hard to keep that from happening. Thank you for your patience with this process. As we move toward 2010 we can know we will have a new pastor for the beginning of a new year! God is good. Merry CHRISTmas and God bless you, Brian Monty, Board Chairman Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=930 Greetings and Merry CHRISTmas from the Church Board. As the celebration of the birth of Christ quickly approaches,( too quickly if you have small children running about your home), we are still working on the hiring of our next Lead Pastor. In fact, this week the Church Board and Search Committee will have two interviews with potential candidates. Depending upon the outcome of the interviews, we may start having the candidates interview more intensely and come visit our church as early next year (that's only 2 weeks away!). Please continue to pray for this process, for the current staff (they are doing a GREAT job in the "interim"), and for God to reveal CLEARLY who will be the next Lead Pastor of Visalia Naz. Thank you for your support and prayers. In Christ, Brian Monty, Board Chair Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=925 The search for our next Lead Pastor moves forward. This past week the Search Committee spent several hours on the phone with potential candidates. There were some excellent conversations and we have outstanding Pastors interested in coming to Visalia Naz. Over the next couple of weeks we will begin to make reference calls on the candidates, continue to pray and seek God's will for our church, and further discuss who would best fill the position at our congregation. Please know that we have some highly qualified, Godly Pastors interested in the possibility to shepherd this flock. The Search Committee and Church Board are confident we will find a great Pastor to lead this church forward in the coming years. In the meantime, we all have much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. Let us fix our eyes upon Jesus, support the staff in the great job they are doing in the interim, and continue to pray for God's will for HIS church. In Christ, Brian Monty, Board Chair Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=922 Thank you for your continued prayers as we search for the new Lead Pastor here at Visalia Naz. Since our last update, the Search Committee has been reading over resumes and questionnaires, as well as meeting and communicating regarding this process. Our District Superintendant, Mel Rich, has submitted the names and information of 6 candidates that he feels would be a good fit for our church and we are now actively working to determine if one of these individuals could in fact be our next Pastor. The Search Committee meets again this week and so does the Church Board. In the next 2 weeks we will be contacting potential candidates and references for the candidates and, hopefully, moving closer to a new shepherd for this flock. Again, thank you for your prayers and support of the current Board and Staff. I will continue to keep you informed as this process rolls along. God bless and keep you! In Christ, Brian Monty, Board Chairman Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=916 Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. That is what we, as a church community, are doing right now. We are trusting in the Lord to raise up another shepherd for this flock. Trusting doesn't mean just sitting back and waiting for a bolt of lightning from above. Your board is working at finding our next pastor. This week the board is meeting to come to a decision on a standard approach of phone calls, questions to be asked of references, and potential candidates as we begin the process of calling a new pastor to our church. If you have a name that you feel should be considered for the Lead Pastor position please feel free to contact myself or any board member. That name will then be given to District Superintendent, Mel Rich, who will then find out if the candidate is even willing to be considered for the position. Once Mel confirms the candidate is willing to consider the position, the search committee will begin to contact references and possibly listen to sermons to see if the person is a fit for our church. The search committee will work with the board and eventually the members of Visalia Naz will have the opportunity to vote on the candidate recommended by the board. I have already received several questions asking about specific names. That information cannot be revealed up front. By no means am I or the board trying to be secretive; please let me explain. If our congregation knew that Shawn was considering another position he would have been much less effective in his final months here. That could have meant fewer people baptized into the Kingdom. We cannot risk affecting adversely a ministry as we search. That said, we do have a few names to consider and the search team will be hard at work in the coming weeks. I thank you in advance for your prayers and commitment to our church. I would also like to take a moment to congratulate the staff, board and search committee for working together as a team and making this whole process as smooth as possible. We are blessed here in Visalia! In Christ, Brian Monty, Church Board Chairman Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=914 241 total responses 182 are members 58 are not members 1 did not answer Age group: 12 - 17: 2 18 - 29: 22 30 - 44: 84 45 - 60: 97 60+: 35 What is the biggest accomplishment in the last 5yrs? (top 4) 1. Completion of the Youth Center/Youth Ministries 2. Outreach (both events/programs and reaching lost people) 3. The "People Factor" (Welcoming & friendly people, loving/accepting of others, coming alongside others/helping in need, being a family, unity) 4. Growth (In numbers, in spiritual depth and in salvation/baptism) What areas of ministry should be given attention in the next 3yrs? (in order of rating) 1. Discipleship 2. Evangelism 3. Developing Leaders 4. Missions and Outreach 5. Expansion of Church Facility 6. Planting New Churches 7. Other Role of Lead Pastor in order of rating: 1. Preacher 2. Shepherd/Evangelist (tied) 3. Counselor 4. Administrator/Visionary Leader (tied) Preaching Style in order of rating: 1. Topical/Story Telling 2. Story Telling 3. Expository 4. Textual Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=909 Thanks to everyone for turning out to give Pastor Shawn and his family a wonderful goodbye. (Too bad the Chiefs couldn't give him a good send off; they lost in the last minute of the game!). The Siegfreids will be missed, yet I know God has big plans for them and Visalia Naz. Now that we have officially said goodbye to Pastor Shawn it is time to look ahead. Thanks to all of you that completed a church survey. That information will be used soon to help the board and search committee look for the next pastor of Visalia Naz. Please be praying for this process. Next weekend, District Superintendent Mel Rich will lead all three services and then afterwards he will be meeting with the board and search committee. These are exciting times for our church. Change is not always fun. Many of you have experienced change with our economy and there has been lots of change in the U.S. recently, maybe even too much change! But some change can be a great blessing! Over the history of our church there has been quite a bit of change and the change has always ended up being a blessing. As I look back over the last 9yrs, I remember when Pastor Terry resigned, people were upset. Then Pastor Shawn arrived and our church continued to grow and be abundantly blessed. Youth Pastor Mike Ford resigned and all the youth of the congregation were devastated. However, we are now on our 3rd consecutive Mike (that name is a pre-requisite for a youth pastor here) and the youth department is flourishing, and we have a new building out back!Worship Pastor Larry resigned and many were concerned about the quality of the worship music in his absence. Yet we haven't missed a beat and did you hear the choir on Sunday? Awesome worship music from up front, thanks Jimmy and company. The point I'm trying to make is this, despite the fear/trials that come with change, each time our church has been through change, blessings have followed. Visalia Naz is a blessed church and we will continue to be blessed under our new pastor. I look forward to see what the Lord will do next. Thank you for your faithfulness to our church and to the Lord. Let's all keep our eyes upward during this time and look forward with excitement to our future together in Christ. Brian Monty, Church Board Chairman Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=904 The search process for our next pastor is in full swing. It is definitely a process and I assure you we are working diligently behind the scenes and are moving forward. Let me explain some of what needs to happen next. Last week the Search Committee met and developed a set of questions to be answered by the congregation and staff to help with the process. With approval from District Superintendant, Mel Rich the questions will be reviewed by the Visalia Naz board for approval. Once approved the questions will be mass produced and ready to present to the congregation in the coming weeks. The intent of the search committee is to have the questions answered and reviewed in order to provide the input of the congregation for the board meeting on Sept. 27th. Pastor Shawn's Farewell Celebration Service will be Sunday, Sept. 20th at 9:45am. Then Mel Rich will be preaching on Sept. 27th with a board meeting following; with the primary intent of discussing the calling of our next pastor. (Please don't forget, God already knows who is coming to shepherd our congregation. All we can do as the Body of Christ is proceed under our denominational bylaws and be diligent in prayer and to discern God's calling). Ultimately, the way a pastoral calling (job offer) works in the Nazarene denomination, is that the congregation will vote on the board's recommendation for a lead pastor. (This is the way it worked with Pastor Shawn and his predecessors as well). Please keep in mind that in order to vote on our next pastor you will need to be an active member in our church. If you are not a member, I encourage you to attend the Real Life 101 class that is coming up this fall to find out how to become a member. I will continue to keep you informed as new details arise. In Christ, Brian Monty, Board Chair Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=905 Since the last update, the Search Committee and the Church Board have reviewed and approved our "Congregational Questionnaire". This will be used by the entire congregation to give input as we proceed with the search for our next pastor. In the next week, the questionnaire will be available at services and on-line for the congregation members to fill out. We are asking this to be done quickly, by Sunday the 20th, in order to have the info compiled and evaluated before the next board meeting. On Sunday, September 27th, the board will meet with the District Superintendent, Mel Rich, and move forward with our search for the next shepherd God has called to lead this flock. Mel is already looking over some resumes and will soon be submitting names to the Search Committee. I will continue to keep you up-to-date with this process. Many of you have made suggestions via the church website and I welcome your input. Please be in prayer over our congregation, church board, search committee, our future pastor and for the Siegfreid family as they make some enormous changes in the coming months. When the time comes to cast your vote, please keep in mind that only those who are current members of the Visalia Nazarene Church will be able to cast a vote to confirm or reject the pastoral candidate. If you have not attended Real Life 101 and signed the Membership Covenant, you will have an opportunity to do so on Oct. 25th at 9:45am or 11:15am. If you have any questions regarding membership status, please contact the office staff during the week. In Christ, Brian Monty Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=894 Dear family and friends of Visalia Nazarene Church, Acts 11:23 says this... "‘When he arrived and saw the evidence of the grace of God he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts." This is what attracted Sherri and I to this wonderful church back in 2001 and it remains true today. Visalia Nazarene is a church of tremendous grace. It is with sadness and joy that I let our wonderful church family know that I have submitted my resignation as your Senior/Lead Pastor. We have been elected to be the Senior Pastor of the Denver First Church of the Nazarene. I have accepted the position and I am looking forward to leading this historic and strong church! I ask for your prayers for my family during this time of transition. I will be with you until the latter part of September and I hope I will see you many times as I will be attempting to finish strong! I cannot do this without you! We are sad to leave our church family. As a church body you have been so supportive. Every single step of the way we have worked together for the mission of Jesus and the mission of reaching lost souls! Wherever I go, I am continually bragging about Visalia Naz and how they truly understand the value of lost people and the mission of our Savior. They get it! I am deeply indebted to this church for allowing me to be your Pastor and Shepherd! We understand that this may come as a shock. Over the next few weeks I will fill in the gaps and answer as many questions as possible. In no way are we leaving under any pressure, but we are leaving because of our belief that this is God's will for us! Our church board and staff are an incredible group of people and I have enjoyed working with them the eight plus years I have been here. They will be leading this church in the months to follow alongside our District Superintendent Dr. Mel Rich. I encourage you to stay strong and faithful to this wonderful church. As it says in Acts 11, "He encouraged you to remain true to the Lord with all your hearts!" That is the bottom line. I want to see you in Heaven! Jesus Christ is the reason we live and breath! Keep serving Him no matter what! Please know you are loved by our Savior and an imperfect person who has had the privilege of being your Pastor these last eight wonderful years! See you Sunday! Rev. Shawn A. Siegfreid Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=897 FAQs for Shawn's New Assignment Where is Pastor Shawn going? He was elected to be the Pastor of Denver First Church. Why is he going? Was there a problem? Pastor Shawn feels called by God to this new assignment. No, there was not any circumstance here at Visalia Naz that prompted this decision. Why couldn't he share this with us sooner so we could be praying for him? The process is lengthy when interviewing and praying for God's will. In order to protect his family and his church family from added emotional stress, it is best for him to share it when the Lord has finally opened or closed the door. When is he leaving? His last Sunday will be Sept. 20th Will we have a going-away service/party? Yes, we are in the process of planning that now, we will be advertising this in a couple of weeks. What is the selection process for a new Pastor? Pastor Wil will be leading us in the interim while the Church Board, Search Committee & District Superintendant begin the process of selecting pastoral candidates to interview. Our church staff will continue to keep the ministries active and strong during the transition. How long will that take? Not sure, but let us begin praying now that the Lord will reveal to us our new pastor in God's perfect time. Who is on the Search Committee? The search committee is selected by the Church Board and is comprised of mature people in leadership. When the time comes to select a pastor, you will have the opportunity to vote, if you are a member with active status. Can I become a member? Yes, we will be having a Real Life 101 Class this fall which you can attend and become a member at that time. ENCOURAGEMENT: God is good! He has blessed Visalia Naz and will continue to bless Visalia Naz. We need to continue to be faithful, continue to love each other, give to the church, serve our community and daily pray for our leadership and our new Pastor. Spiritual growth comes with change, challenges, adversity and sometimes that change is hard to take in the present, yet when we look back, we can see the Lord's hand at work carrying and leading us the entire time. Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=898 Visalia Naz board met Tues, August 4th with District Superintendent, Mel Rich. This began the process of moving forward and seeking the next pastor (whom God already has picked out) for Visalia Naz. As per the Nazarene denominational policies, all salaried staff members must resign when a lead pastor leaves a church. This is similar to a professional sports team changing a head coach or a CEO change at a large company. Once all the resignations were received the board voted to accept them and then, unanimously the board voted to reinstate the entire staff. Every member of our congregation should know that the board has complete confidence in the ability of our staff and its volunteer leaders, teams and congregation to carry the church forward in the coming months as the search for a new lead pastor proceeds. What happens next? Working with Mel Rich, the board will vote on a pastoral search committee that will work to begin looking at potential pastoral candidates. Mel, being the district superintendent of our congregation, will oversee, make suggestions, help direct this process and he will even be at our church to preach in late September. As a church, we are moving forward, focusing on Christ, and we will continue to be a light to our community and the world in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Please keep the board, staff, Siegfreid family and the future pastor in prayer. We will continue to keep you informed after the next meeting in the coming weeks. Any questions or concerns can be directed to Tami Slipher ext. 29 or tami@visalianaz.org as she will be working closely with me and our board on the administrative details. Serving Him together with you, Brian Monty, Board Chair Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=125&article_id=899 Visalia Naz Church Board has elected a Pastoral Search Committee to begin the process of searching for our next Lead Pastor. The search committee members include three current board members: Brian Monty, Mike Allen and Diane Bagley and three more members of the congregation: Don Schengel, Angela Walker and Jeff Brown. This Committee will report directly to the Church Board and will work on behalf of the board and the congregation throughout this process. All pastoral calling/hiring will be done under the direction of District Superintendent Mel Rich and according to the Nazarene denominational manual. Please pray for discernment for each of them throughout this process. The congregation will be included in this process and will have a chance to participate as well. Here are the ways you can be involved now:Pray for the Search Committee, the Church Board and for the new Lead Pastor and his family.Begin thinking of what our church might need in the next Lead Pastor. What qualities would best serve our church?Where is our church headed? What are some needs of the congregation, as a whole, in moving forward? By thinking upon these types of questions now, you will be ready to answer when called upon by the board and search committee. Please note that out of reverence and respect of Pastor Shawn, we will not become fully engaged in the search process while he is still our Pastor; though we will have some initial meetings for planning. Once Pastor Shawn's time at Visalia Naz is completed on Sept. 20th we will begin the search process more intensely. Let me reassure you that God already knows who our next Lead Pastor will be. Our job is to pray, sense God's calling and be obedient. Please continue to pray for Pastor Shawn and family as they make their transition to Denver. We are excited for them and are grateful for a having a Pastor that follows God. I would like to invite you to the FAREWELL PARTY on Wed. Sept. 16 from 6:30-8:30pm in the gym and to the FAREWELL CELEBRATION on Sunday, Sept. 20th at 9:45am. This will be a combined service that you won't want to miss! Thank you for your prayers and support throughout this process. In Christ, Brian Monty, Board Chair Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:52:08 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=36 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=36&article_id=17 What Is Visalia Naz All About? We're challenged to be R.E.A.L. Living out these purposes will enable us to lead a life loving God and loving people-fulfilling the purpose for which we were made! Realize our need. We realize Christ's death on the cross pays for our sin. We ask God for forgiveness, we are baptized, and we follow Jesus. (Acts 2:36-38) Experience God. In worship, we gather weekly to sing, pray, learn from God's Word, and give of our time, talent and treasure. (Acts 2:42-47) Authentic friendships. We are part of God's family and pursue a relationship with the living God and those who follow Jesus. (Hebrews 10:24-25) Live out our faith. We share our faith and care for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of people here and around the world. (Acts 4:32-33) Sun, 7 Mar 2010 12:48:34 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34&article_id=958 1 Kings 19: 9-18 February 28th, 2010 Pastor Wil Hobbs MP3 file Sun, 7 Mar 2010 10:04:21 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34&article_id=957 Acts 2:33-34 Hebrews: 10:24-25 February 21st, 2010 Wil Hobbs MP3 file Sun, 7 Mar 2010 10:04:21 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=34&article_id=956 Hebrews 10:39 February 14th, 2010 Mark Statema MP3 file Sun, 7 Mar 2010 10:04:21 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=120 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=120&article_id=875 One Time Commitment Help at an Event Contact Joy Once/Twice a Month Factility Care/Maintenance Contact Dan Sunday Morning Help with A/V Contact Jimmy Help Direct Parking Contact Robert Wednesday & Saturday Work in the Kitchen Saturday Contact Dave Wednesday Contact RobertSetup Tables and Chairs Contact Robert Teardown Tables and Chairs Contact Robert Tue, 9 Feb 2010 13:09:38 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=949 GLOBAL MINISTRY REQUESTS Haiti Please keep the people of Haiti in your prayers. To read about ways the Church of the Nazarene is responding, visit www.ncm.org/haitiearthquake. Once on this page, you will find several opportunities to help as well as updated reports from Haitian pastors. Tue, 9 Feb 2010 12:54:23 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=52 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=52&article_id=948 At Visalia Naz we offer sports throughout the year. Starting in January we have Winter Basketball and Cheer grades Pk-6th. In the Spring we have Indoor Soccer grades Pk-5th. During the Summer we have T-Ball and Youth Baseball Grades Pk-2nd. In June we have our week long Sports Camp for 4-12 year olds. You choose the sport your child wants to focus on they are: Team 45 for all children ages 4 & 5 that focuses on basic motor and ball handling skills. Basketball, Soccer or Cheer for all other ages. In the Fall we feature Outdoor Soccer, NFL Flag Football and Cheer. For more information please check out our 2010 Sports Calendar. Tue, 26 Jan 2010 14:39:56 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=93 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=93&article_id=947 2010 Sports Calendar Tue, 26 Jan 2010 14:38:52 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=934 Come check out our daily blog that will have devotions posted as well as scripture to help you read through the Bible in 2010. Click here for the devotions Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:48:11 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=847 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:48:11 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=306 Click Here to listen to recent Sunday morning messages Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:48:11 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=901 CLICK HERE FOR BOARD UPDATES Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:47:44 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=935 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:47:01 MST http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.visalianaz.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=885 Visalia First Church of The Nazarene3333 W. Caldwell, Visalia, CA 93277 (559) 734-1117 (559) 734-1119 (fax) EmailGet Directions Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:47:01 MST