Word of Life Bible Institute Yearbook 1995

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BIBLE INSTITUTE

Holding Forth The Word Of Life 1970 - 1995

25th Anniversary Tribute

Student Life

Ministries

Special Events

Administration & Faculty

People

120

Academics

Directory

128

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BIBLE INS i

Volume Twenty-Five 25 th Anniversary Edition Word of Life Bible Institute Pottersville, NY 12860

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HE TIME FOR A CHANGE had come and was finally clarifying its arrival to the Christian \Q young people of America in the year 1970. It was time to start a one year Bible school where Christians could receive training in the Word of God. In 1969 the thought began formulating in Jack Wyrtzen's mind to train young people in the truths of the Bible. The ministries of Word of Life had, by this time, started to spread around the world and the call for such training was very evident. Finding a place to house students was not a problem. The Word of Life Ranch buildings were already winterized and just waiting to be filled. God had provided the place, but would the students come? In the first year of the Bible Institute there were a total of seventy-three students. This was twenty-three more than were expected. The second year they expected one hundred. God brought one hundred and twenty-six! Today over six hundred students live on the Word of Life Bible Institute campus, about one hundred of these being involved in the Institute's latest academic addition of a second year program. The uniqueness of the Institute is in offering a concentrated Bible study in one year. Credits transfer to many Christian colleges around the country. Emphasis is given to helping the young person gain a knowledge and understanding of God and His Word, a life of discipline and holiness, and a practical application of the Bible in active ministry for the glory of God. God has been most gracious in blessing His work at the Bible Institute. Over the years the number of young people who have gone on in service for the Lord because of the Institute will only be fully recognized as we get Heaven and realize what great things the Lord truly has done.

ORD of LIF BIBLE INSTITUTE

Administration “Among the faculty

can be found examples of faithfulness.”

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Dr. George Theis, President, and Mr. Joe Jordan, Senior Vice- President.

Mr. Brian Headdings, Associate Dean, and Mr. Brian Donley, Director of Music with a group of Collegians.

Stu Page prepares to

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Ginny Newton with I

C3r" HROUGH THE YEARS expansion and growth ^ have forced much of the change at Word of Life Bible Institute. With this expansion and growth many new staff members have been added. Many years of faithfulservice can be found among the staff at the Bible 2 Jtff 2 5 Years of Excellence

Institute: Mr. Stuart Page, Executive Dean since 1970; Mr. Brian Headdings, Associate Dean; Mr. Joe Schenke, if ./■: V. SJfl^ P ■•••&: ■f| 1 11; t. I I IfIf :•",:1 ■|| ' M i l a •.' ij • ./• Dean of Students and campus pastor; Miss Ginny New ton, Dean of Women; Mr. Steve Hobbs, Dean of Men; Mr Tom Davis, Academic Dean and Professor; and Mr.

Photo Heidi Wagner

•Founder Jack Wyrtzen with Heidi Wagner, Heidi Stymiest, and Heidi Weigner. •Mr. Joe Schenke, Campus Pastor and Dean of Students. •Harry Bollback, Senior Director; with Jennifer Henderson; Mamie Booker; and Erinn MeAndrew.

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•Jack Wyrtzen, applauds John Master, a former teacher. • Jack Wyrtzen, the world's oldest teen.

Marshall Wicks, professor. More important than speaking of the faculty's ex cellent ability in teaching and administrating the school is their ability to personalize their contact with the students. To have an effective administration God requires faith-

fulness, dedication, and love to Him first and foremost. The faculty of Word of Life Bible Institute is effective because they not only tell us how to live life on a day by day basis but they also show us through their examples of godly living.

25 Years of Excellence

ORD of LEF BIBLE INSTITUTE

ACADEMICS

Dd...a consistent sword of penetration.”

Nathan Potts glances at the ticking clock, anticipating the coming break.

One of the highlights of the academic day is Mr. Wicks' Calvin & Hobbes cartoons.

•Dr. Wendell Kempton has been a guest lecturer at the BI for many years. •Sleeping during break has always been a normal part of WOLBI life.

j1 N ONGOING PROCLAMATION of truth C?Ml from God's Word which is taught in Council Hall has not been halted. The classes at this institution have not been watered down to please an ever changing world of instability. The Word of Life Bible Institute 2 5 Years of Excellence

does not cater to the whims of this world's thinking. Through the years it has used the Word of God as a consistent sword of penetration — proclaiming the Truth of the Bible as the only anchor on which to base the Christian's life. Classes at the Word of Life Bible Institute

•Lining up outside of Colom bia every Friday is a great memory for all the guys who have had to wait with hungry stomachs to get rid of their tablet arms. •Jennifer Beams studiously takes notes during class. •Joe Sampley and Rob Hunter prepare for a test with some last minute studying during break.

•The library is a wonderful place to study when the dorm is just too loud. •Council Hall holds many fond memories for all WOLBI students, past and present.

consist of courses in Theology and Bible Survey as well as is in a building properly named “Council Hall.” It is the emphasizing in specific books of the Bible on a weekly mission of the Word of Life Bible Institute to give each basis. Throughout the year various guest lecturers come student pure counsel from the Word of God, properly from around the country such as Dr, Charles Ryrie, Dr. instructing them in the things of the Lord. John Whitcomb, and Dr. Dan Anderson. The classroom 5 2 5 Years of Excellence

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ORD of LIF BIBLE 1INSTITUTE

David Schmidt as Santa in the Collegians' ‘Every Knee Shall Bow” play.

Brian Peters witnesses to a member of the opposing team after the game.

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Students of the past minister in Collegians and Child Evangelism Fellowship.

four teams. Each team consisted of two smaller components, a choir team and a ministry team. Every weekend the teams would travel to a local church and share in song and service, going door to door as well as holding Sunday Schools, church services, and youth rallies. Since then, the BI has gready expanded ministry to include new forms of service such as Open Air Evangelism, teams who witness on the streets of major cities for a week each quarter, and the Collegians, a choir group of students who are involved in

(“ z. ' HE NEED for peace and satisfaction is something that will never \Q change. This need is the reason the Bible Institute has always made ministries an integral part of the curriculum. The goal of the academics here is not simply head knowledge but also applying this knowledge to effectively minister to the needs of people without Christ. This goal is reached through the God given talents of students in various areas of ministry. During the first four years of the Bible Institute's existence, ministry was divided into

2 5 Years of Excellence

PhoroJoAnn Bcstrom

•Jenna Little, Lisa Broestler, Tammy El- deen, Claire Jeftha, and Kelly Fleming in the “Which Way” play. •The Collegians minis ter at Snow Camp '95 •John Poyton shows the rope trick to a group of kids on OAE Boston. •Julie Redmond reads a Bible story to two chil dren.

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OAE and Snow Camp are two of the biggest WOLBI

ministries. to many different camps and ministries for eight weeks before graduation. The Bible Institute has continued to emphasize that “faith without works is dead.” When one soaks too long he begins to sour. The squeezing out of Biblical knowledge through practical ministry involvement allows the Chris tian to permeate the world with the beautiful fragrance of Christ's love.

weekend ministries, and Christmas and Spring tours. There are basketball and soccer teams, prison evangelism, local church teams, CEF and CBF, !drama groups, weekend ministry teams, and a Spanish outreach group. Of course, there is also Snow Camp which takes place in the winter quarter with more than 500 campers each weekend, many of whom make salvation and dedication decisions. Last, but definitely not least, a major division of ministry is during the summer quarter when the student body is involved in

25 Years of Excellence

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25 Years of Excellence

ORD of LIF BIBLE INSTITI TE

SPECIAL EVENTS

Barbara Ann Blunk, Amy Inch, David Sharratt, and Naoto Yano dress up for the Costume Party.

“The memories gained are life lasting.’’

Photo Barbara Ann Blunk

1970 - 1995

Onlookers crowd around Todd Brower and BJ Shloer as they stuff their faces at the Carnival.

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•Banquets have always been a highlight of the WOLBI students' year.

entertainment. In the past, the Bible Institute has put on such things as talent nights and Sweetheart Banquets. Today there is a more diverse group of on-campus students therefore increasing the need for more creative extra-curricular activities in order to maintain a coverage of all special interests. As for banquets there is the annual Thanksgiving Fiesta and Valentine's Day Banquet as well as Missions

p y * HE REMEMBRANCE OF THE PAST ushers in memories {/O that will certainly be precious. The pleasant things remem bered will always be a part of a Word of Life Bible Institute student's thoughts. The special events which take place on campus ate a means by which lasting and memorable impressions are created. As the growth on campus has increased, so has the need for greater

2!> Years of Excellence

Photo Carrie Carr

Photo Lisa Broestler

•The Collegians sing during Mis sions Conference 1995 •Brian Peters and Cynthia Sunden at the Valentine's Ban quet. •Amidst Novem ber's flurries, Carrie Carr and Michelle Quintero practice for the Thanksgiv ing Fiesta's Powder Puff football game.

•Students prepare for and entertain at the special events.

Conference and Founder's Week Banquets. To satisfy the activity need there are many intramural opportunities. The girls as well as guys can get involved in sports activities such as volleyball, basket ball, and football. In the fall and spring there are hiking and biking trips, rides given to shopping areas, 3 Stooges marathons, rollerska ting, Bible studies, prayer bands, and witnessing teams.

These events are just a few of the special happenings taking place on the weekends. It is a necessary part of a Christian's walk to be well balanced in all areas of life. The fellowship gained from these special events is excellent in establishing unity among people with one goal in mind; praising the Lord in everything they do.

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Photo Jen Hamilton

•The lakeside as the steam rises in the early morning •John Poyton decides to use a bike for trans portation in addition to the two feet God gave him. •Wendy St. John, Stacy Lyford, and Lynn Her- rold enjoy the break from class. •Lisa Alexander and Eamon O'Reily make a happy couple.

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•A WOLBI couple (the photographer was the third pary.) •The bookstore is a favorite place on campus. S THE YEARS HAVE PASSED the friendly New York is incomparable. Warm afternoons and cool high peaks Q atmosphere; the encouraging greetings of ‘‘hello ’’, WMi as one is being passed; and the vibrant enthusiasm of students have made up life here on campus. In the fall the Bible Institute. These settings provide great places to and spring quarters, the weather in beautiful upstate go jogging, eat meals outside on a picnic table, study by beauty 2 5 Years of Excellence

ofLIF

1970 - 1995

CAMPUS LIFE “Life at the BI is described as ‘truly 1 ' * 5 >J living .

While taking a trek up the mountain, Heather Rozelle

and Bonnie Low stop to wade in the creek.

Mike Cheeley does one of the favored work assignments on campus, dishpit.

•Students enjoy fellowshipping with each other.

•A girl washes flatware in the dishpit!

the lake, as well as relax on the lawn in the center of campus and sharing the campanionship and en couragement of good friends. By enjoying campus life one has an opportunity to rest within the beautiful handiwork of God's creation. Taking

the time to breathe in the wonder of God's majesty and then sharing that joy with friends is something that is hard to find anywhere else. Campus life here at the Word of Life Bible Institute is most closely summarized as “truly living.”

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1970 - 1995

DORM LIFE “Life in the dorm will never change drastically.”

Todd Brower and Marc Gegner show their true colors in Columbia dorm.

Photo Kcaarin Dimmick Sarah Caskey revels in happy thoughts as she retires to bed.

Photo Todd Brower

•One of the men's chalets, circa 1970's. •The construction of Europe dorm.

jf CONSISTENT GROWTH is what occurs through the relationships God has chosen to give the students with each other in dorm life. As students live together in one room there are many opportunities to grow internally through a maturing process of stretching and character building. The

relationships established among those in a dorm are ones in which spiritual growth occurs as the students center friendships around Christ. The maturing of one's character begins on the day of arrival. As greetings are exchanged and roommates are “sized up/’

2 5 Years of Excellence

Rachel Feldi as she truly is when in Europe dorm. •The girls of England dorm are always friendly...especially when it's someone's birthday. (Don't miss Paula Rummel and Kaylene Hilton) Matt Etner, scared out of his mind, prepares to receive a haircut from Mike Zealand in Colombia dorm.

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•Dorm jobs are part of everyone's life. •Two girls from Europe dorm.

is a chance for their hearts to open up to all the love and fun- filled moments that come with living together. Dorm life will never alter drastically over the years for the people who make up the dorm still experience the same traumas, emotions, and joys that come with sharing. 9 2 5 Years of Excellence 15

process of getting to know each other begins, a process which fl asts all year. One has to learn through dorm life the areas of patience and self control, understanding and sensitivity, as well is letting go of idiosyncracies, pet peeves, and annoyances. >nce these things are dealt with in the roommates' lives, there

hange is an undeniable fact of existence. As we travel through life we are called to make decisions. The manner in which we make decisions brings about change. As Christians we realize that all the decisions we make should be controlled by our Creator and God. Yes, change can be beneficial, but it can also be destructive. The changes occurring in our day to day lives are so momentus we could constantly find ourselves in a state of utter despair and insecurity if it were not for the trust we can place in our God who is in control of all circumstances. It is this calming peace that assures us that future progress here at Word of Life Bible Institute is within the com plete and perfect will of our God. Praise Him, for rf .,y ;•• , r / 1 •

16 25 Years of Excellence

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“Be still and know that I am God.”

Psalm 46:10

J(yieue>v FOLLOWING HIM

It was the middle of September as students, faculty, and staff stepped onto the WOLBI campus, full of anticipation. A new school year had begun. Students had come from all over the nation and all over the world to study God's Word. Each individ ual brought their own special contribution as they made up the WOLBI campus. As that first registration weekend came to a close, students bid farewell to their families and friends, and faced their new life at WOLBI. Uncertainty and fear were undoubtedly in many students hearts and minds. As time progressed however, and everyone began to settle in, those fears and doubts were laid to rest. Friendships were formed and memories were made that would last a lifetime. Within the unique community of the WOLBI campus, each student was experiencing brand new situations that affected them spiritually and socially like never before. This year was one these students would never forget as they were prepared to go out into the world holding forth the Word of Life.

Student Life

One big, happy family DORM LIFE

More than likely, the people we really get to know are our roommates. Every day you wake up to them, you see them, you smell them, you know their habits. Unconsciously do we show our true colors. This is the one area in life we are able to hide the least. This close- knit lifestyle allows for interaction among different personalities. The clashes that are seen on the surface are dismissed as the love of Christ focuses our eyes on the Spirit of God within each person. We then per ceive one another as we ought, as brothers and sisters in the LORD. This person-to-person relationship is existent only when we have that intimacy with God. Though we are constantly fed the Word in our studies, without that quietness before Him, we fail to recognize « the riches that are hid in Christ. Daily quiet times provide us the opportunity to draw near to Him and the grace to see past that incredibly large pile of faults that all our roommates seem to have.

Photo Claire Jeftha

Photo Amy Glenn

A Top: She's got to be different! Misty Shores, Heidi Stymeist, Tina Tidwell, and Lisa Alexander in Sydney cabin A Bottom: Heidi Weigner, Claire Jeftha, Tracy Jasper, and Mandy Landry enjoy a bonding moment in South America.

A Danny Thomas as “The Shadow’’ of Hungary Upper dorm

Dorm Life

A Europe Lower girls showing off their personalized heart- shaped cookies. M told you a vacuum won’t pick up orange juice.”

The most prevailing thought:

“You always know there’s someone in the room.”

Photo David Risko

A Bo Stawicki: I’d like some privacy here.” M Sarah Nightingale: "I will be Miss Fluoride. I will be Miss Fluoride.” ▼ North America girls imitating Pippi Longstocking.

(>hoto Jodi Coffin

Photo Heidi Wagner

Dorm Life

Photo Becca Robinson

Photo Aaron Maynard

A Joel Colon and Dan Beebe attempt to kill their RA and work assignment intern, Duane Breining.

► Would you love me if I looked like this? Angel Comer and Christy Hoover.

Photo Melissa Berry

A Cathy, Melissa, Hannah and Dionne fight over the best position for the picture.

A Mark Nunnally: Oh, no! I left my lipstick in the pocket!” ► Tricia Jones and Valerie Chase devour their only connection with the outside world- a copy of USA Today from the bookstore.

“Friends make the di between a good day and a great day.”

Campus Life

► Typical WOLBI guys hangin’ out. Rich Whitman, Mike Phillips, and Tommy Brown. ▼ Kaylene Hilton: “ New Zealand was never this stressful.”

M Robin Damiani: 'I wanna go home!

Campus Life

A Heather Giesal, Tammy Giesal, Renee Spoto, Anne Krebs, and Kazuko Kuriyama lay down in the leaves and reflect on how beautiful God's creation is.

*4 Brian Peters and Jesse Pratt pose for the camera while enjoying a break from the game. A The men of Chile dorm prepare for war with snow balls and a fort. ► Michelle Young decides which poster to buy for her secret prayer sister.

Student Life

M Mike Hidalgo and George Dow make a happy pair as they sport their Awana uniforms. A Pam Varndell is caught working on a project as she contemplates her next question!

A Chris Vickery has amazing talent on a bicycle. A Right: David Risko reclines into a comfortable position in the newly furnished Jack's. ► Hard at work in the dishpit, Bill Carey is happy to be a servant for Christ.

Student Life

DINING HALL The time is 1:50 the bell has rung, a good indicator it is time for lunch, your stomach has been making strange noises for the last two Survey classes (much to your embarrassment) and the last thing you want to have to sit through is an nouncement time, but you endure... Just when you think your sell-control has diminished to the point of absolute non-existence you are dismissed. You bolt out the door to see what is eagerly awaiting in the lunch line to tantalize your tas- tebuds. The feeling is all too familiar here, we have all felt the same impatient call to the dining room, a call ending in satisfaction as you see the menu for the day is an agreeable one, or the sometimes all too familiar “other” call. Meals in the dining room consist of two main ingredients, social interaction and the supplementation of the body’s daily need for nutrition.

A Jason Grahame returns his empty plate to the dishpit. A Brian Peters ponders the possibility of not being able to finish his taco salad but soon dismisses the thought and wonders how he could have ever dreamed of not eating what he had taken.

Jeff Mickle is astounded by how wonderful the food tastes.

Dining Hall

A Jen Beams and Jen Kline rake time away from their Captain Crunch to smile for the camera. ◄ It’s not an easy job to be the clicker girl and have to control hundreds of starving WOLB1 students. Bo Stawicki & Solveig Olsen

“One of the best things about meal time is the opportunity for fellowship.”

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A It’s kind of hard to smile for the camera and chew at the same time huh? Clockwise: Kelly Shields, Andy Armstrong, Traci Harrison, and Hope Thompson. ▼ Funny faces and rabbit ears are just a couple of things WOLBI students find entertaining. Clockwise: Talitha Allen, Woody Decasere, Nate Thomas, Joe Sampley, and Jamie Anderson. A Tim Johnson would like the whole world to know how good his biscuits are - thanks Tim!

Dining Hall

Labor With A Cause... WORK ASSIGNMENTS

The Bible Institute has worked out a system in which the student’s price of room and board is decreased considerably through the means of work assignments. Each student is assigned to six hours of work a week in various departments. Upon arrival at reg istration it is taken into consideration the student’s various skills and then, when available, a job best suited for that student is given. Work assignments can be ben eficial in learning to balance time and the discipline of the student’s daily scheduling routine.

Vacuum cleaners are just not designed to pick up small objects such as forks. Sandy Haigh & Michelle Quintero

A Steve Boyles appreciates the fine shower con veniences available through the WOLBI dishpit. ► Top: Stephanie Costa believes it’s important to have the dining hall tables so clean that you can see your reflection in them. ► Bottom: Zombie-like state sets in quite rapidly for Laura Haggerty as she works for hours on the same computer.

Work Assignments

Tim Johnson, Mike Hidalgo, Scott Zeigler, and Matt Schell brew something up in the dishpit.

A This lovely pastry dough you see here was made with eggs similar in size to these two. Christy Marks & Angel Comer A Top: Duane Breining, Mike Shirley, and Anna Bentley intensely discuss how to not gliche up the snow camp weekend work assignment. ◄ Bottom: Jen Kline takes pizza orders.

Work Assignments

Heather Davis

practices her Ukranian on

Vladimir Dinovich.

is the task where many share the toil.” -Homer

A “Take my picture and I burn your mail!” Lisa Henderson ▼Valerie Chase attempts to wrestle a lollipop from Jeanna Little.

“We like to rake really straight lines and we like doing it together.” -Matt Knell, Joel Colon, Dave Miller

Work Assignments

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►Tricia Jones' smile could only mean one thing- she’s seen one too many cakes.

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‘Maybe they won’t know that I dropped this on the floor if I’m careful not to look too suspicious...’’(Robin Damiani)

Mark Nunnally hangs on for dear life in the Council Hall sound room.

Work Assignments

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*Study to shew STUDY HOURS Study hours is a time alotted for students to spend two I and one-half hours of meditative silence reviewing the truths I learned in the classroom. Those students with a 3.5 or | higher on their previous quarter’s grades do not have to | spend study hours in their room but are given special I privileges. There is also a special time of study that takes I place in Council Hall during this time as well for the student I with a GPA below a 2.0. Study hours aids in helping the | student to balance and organize their time in hopes of instilling good study habits within each student. Most find this time a great help in their effort to learn God’s Word.

Smell no distractions, hear no distractions? Sarah Bubar and Wendy Barnes intently study at Jack’s.

▼ Shelli Troxel takes the time to study at her desk. ▼ Right: Mike A. Hernandez and Aaron Maynard choose to spend their study hours in the dining room- what dedication since study hours are not required for them!

A Michelle Gonska studies on the library couch, the most envied studying spot in the library.

Study Hours

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...approved unto God... 1 Tim. 4:12

A John Poyton looks for some resources in the library. ^This photo of Mike Zealand was taken only seconds before his chair fell out from under him. ▼ Left: Yeah, sure, Jeff Luchun and Stacy Zello go to the library to study. ▼ Right: Rob Hauser enjoys his study time by the soft glow of his desk lamp.

Study Hours

CHAPEL Chapels at the Word of Life Bible Institute are designed outside of the classroom to give the students a chance to hear special guest speakers. They are also very beneficial in promoting campus unity between the Bib lical Studies students, the SYME students and the In stitute staff. Wednesday mornings there is a Presidential chapel where the different directors of Word of Life Inter national have the opportunity to speak. Thursday morn ings is for ministry chapels during the winter quarter. During the fall and spring quarters there are split chapel sessions and the staff can get a little more.personal with the students. Lriday mornings are reserved for various guest speakers. All in all, chapels are beneficial in the growth of the individual’s relationship with Christ as he or she puts into application all they have heard during these times.

A The guys have a serious time of prayer in their split chapel session once a week.

A Mr. Tom Taylor conducts one of the smaller chapels designed to be more personal for the married and off-campus students.

34 gg Chapels

M Gregor Breier, a concert pianist from Germany, shared his testimony in word and song in a Friday chapel. T George Theis is often a speaker in Wednesday morning Presidential chapels.

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A Hope Thompson, Kelly Shields, Melody Young and Rebekah Faulkner, listen to the girls split chapel speaker in Thursday morning chapel.

A Mrs. Boliback was one of the girls split chapel speakers in a Thursday morning chapel.

Chapels

IN HIS SERVICE "...Choose you this day whom ye will serve." Joshua 24:15. As human beings we have a choice to either serve God or serve Satan. There is no in between. As Christians, we should be striving to serve in whatev er ways we can. That is what ministry is all about. Word of Life puts a strong emphasis on ministry. What good does all of our classroom knowledge do us, if we never apply it to our everyday living? In Mark 16:15 our Lord commands us, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." In response to this command, Word of Life requires its students to participate in a ministry. A wide variety of ministries is offered, from singing in Collegians, to witnessing in city streets with Open Air Evangelism. Although ministry is a required part of the curriculum, students are glad for the opportunity to serve and grow from it. As Amy Glenn shares, "I really loved O.A.E.! God burdened my heart for lost souls going to Hell! There are so many unsaved people out there, and so many witnessing opportunities! I grew by God giving me the boldness to share His Good News with anyone passing, for fear that it might be the last time they hear it. Lastly, to be faithful to Him by sharing Jesus not only in O.A.E. , but in my everyday life !!" To serve the Lord is not only our command, but also our joy and honor.

Ministries

A Heather Mundell is caught hanging around after helping to paint a room at the camp where the group stayed. ▼ Apparantly the city had a fashion affect on Patrick Luther and Vladimir Dinovich.

Children's Bible Fellowship, is a ministry that has a focus on evan gelizing kids. It’s technique is similar to a Vacation Bible School. Each week, they work with an inner city church and hold children's meetings, Tuesday through Friday. Half of the CBF group stays at the church to work with the meetings, while the other half of the group goes into the local projects to do door to door wit nessing. It is a great opportunity to learn how to reach children with the gospel, and it is definitely a very ripe field waiting to be harvested.

A Rob Reinebach is engulfed by a crowd of children eager to hear the Gospel. M Top: Mandy Lan dry enjoys the compa ny of a little girl and her furry friend. M Center: Tara Brownlie spent a lot of time getting to know this cute little guy. ▼ Todd Brower is overwhelmed by the love his young friend obviously has for him!

A These kids look happy to be a part of CEF.

A Craig Cantey, Christy Harris, Lisa Randolph, Lynn Herrold, and Kara Marinelli enjoy the time they share each week with these kids.

Child Evangelism Fellowship is a ministry with a focus on evangelizing children. Every Tuesday the CEF teams go to different homes and hold children’s meetings. Each team goes to the same house weekly, and gets to work with the same children. Every Saturday CEF has classes in which they are instructed on how to teach and reach children with the gospel. By working weekly with the same children, they build strong relationships with them. The children have a great time as they are exposed to God's Word through Bible lessons, puzzles, and songs. After completing the CEF ministry, WOLBI students receive a certificate enabling them to teach in any CEF club around the world.

A Bonnie Low with her kids from CEF.

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Open Air Evangelism is a ministry with no end to possibilities. It is exciting and even kind of an adventure. A group of students venture out to a busy city street and set up a paintboard. One of the guys in the group goes through the gospel using the paintboard as his tool. In the meantime his teammates stand by and listen to him in hopes to draw a crowd. At the end of the meeting, the group turns to any strangers who have been listening and talk to them about what they heard and find out where they are spiritually. In between meetings the group hands out tracts to the busy passer-byers. Often during this time good conversations start because people want to know what the literature is all about. Many times, though, it is the student’s effort that starts conversa tions with people sitting on a park bench, waiting for a bus, etc. In the afternoon, children's meetings are held in local projects. The girls conduct these meetings by doing a puzzle, a Bible story, singing songs, and rope tricks. The meetings are often a special time for these children, who are often not growing up in the best of conditions. OAE is a unique ministry. It can be a struggle to go up to complete strangers and talk with them about the condition of their souls. God is stronger than we are, though, and works through those who are just simply willing. He gives you the strength, the boldness, and the wisdom as long as you are seeking it. Another great aspect of OAE is that it can be done everywhere, not just when we are "out on ministry.’’ Our lives are a ministry every day. Next time you are in a store, give the cashier a tract, or the next time you are sitting on a park bench, strike up a conversation. The Lord did say, "Go ye into all the world...’’ - Tricia Valentine

► Top: Sam Frey prepares to preach the gospel on the streets. ▼ Melissa McTamney and Heidi Wagner enjoy the sights.

AT Getting involved with the kids in the inner city is one of the most rewarding parts of OAE ministry. On the slide are Aaragon Markwell and Rebekah Hannah. Above, Heidi Weigner teaches the kids’ story.

OAE Boston

OAE NYC not pictured due to technical diffuculties.

Open Air Evangelism

Prison Ministry

Prison ministry is a very unique ministry. There are a number of different prison teams at WOLBI that go into prisons from south of Albany up to the Canadian border with a group called Prison Fellowship. They go usually twice a quarter, and spend the whole weekend with the prisoners in a seminar. There is one head lecturer who leads the meeting, and the WOLBI guys are considered volunteers. After the speaker speaks, the prisoners are split up into small groups and the WOLBI guys get to talk to them one on one. This is an opportunity to present

the Gospel in a clear and simple fashion, and answer any questions they have. These prisoners, people that society has just written off, are looking for answers to life, and how they can stay out of prison. Many of the prisoners have read the Bible, and can quote lots of scripture, so our guys have to stay on their toes. As they look into the prisoners of ten cold and distant eyes, they do their best to reach out and give the answers to life from God's Word. They realize that whether free or bond, all people need the Lord.

Prison & Rescue Mission

The Spanish Ministry this year was a big success. Spanish ministry is like OAE in that a team of students head into New York City for a week of open air evangelism and children’s meetings. The difference is that they reach out specifically to the Spanish com munities within the city. There are many Spanish speaking individuals out there. This year so many of them were receptive to the gospel, that they are considering expanding this ministry for next year. Photos courtesy of Cassandra Blake

A The team works with the kids in the inner city of NY. ▼ The Spanish Ministry team gathers at the church.

A Valerie Chase is captivated by the sounds of the drums. ▼ Over the week the team got real close.

Spanish Ministry 43

Photo Chad Johnson

THE WORD OF LIFE BIBLE INSTITUTE COLLEGIANS

ARebekah Faulkner, Chad Johnson, Glynn Ruby, Mark Gouge, Heather Burton, and Eric Kolben are dressed up and ready to go. Photo Jessica Patton

One of the most exciting ministries at the Bible Institute is the 100 voice concert choir known as the Collegians. This group, under the direction of Mr. Brian Donley, is the core group of all of Word of Life’s music ministries. This year’s group participated in many ex citing events. To start the year off were grueling daily practices in preparation for the year’s ac tivities. In December they split up into two groups to go out on a two week tour criss crossing the United States. The two groups per formed “Ring the Bells” and “Every Knee Shall Bow,” the Christmas plays, in many cities across the country. During the Winter Quarter the Collegians found themselves involved in Snow Camp and also in practicing for the Spring tour “The Passion Play.” During the year the Lord has blessed many people through the Collegian ministry but as many Collegians have said, it blessed them even more.

Photo Phillip Utley A Travel on tour can be pretty exhausting! Here Brandon Young and Mike Constantino cuddle up for a nap. ▼ The victorious entrance into Jerusalem- a scene from the "Passion Play.”

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Ministries

hoto Jessica Patton k “Hey! I wanna be in the picture too!” A group >f Collegians on their tour bus.

▲ During the year the Collegians try out for different groups to participate in such as the men’s quartet; Praise Eight; and, seen here, Celebration Six. Celebration Six members are Rob Phillips, Andre Mesquita, Brandon Young, Jessica Patton, Glynn Ruby, and Melody Young. M The healing of the two blind beggars- Glenn Ackerman, Charlie Windham, and Jon Good. ▼ Picture perfect choir members- Naomi Steele, Kazuko Kuriyama, and Jaime Hanks.

Photo Alice Moore

Collegians

Local Church Ministry is a challenging and yet rewarding opportunity to apply those things that we have learned in class to everyday life. The areas of service in this ministry vary from working in the nursery up to actually doing pastoral ministries. WOLBI students ministered in chur ches from Perth to Plattsburgh. The ministry is unique in that it allows you to get into different practical situations and see first hand how pastors, deacons, and other members of these churches handle difficulties and the successes that God brings their way. Each church where students ministered, whether large or small, provided an excellent opportunity for God to work through them to proclaim Christ in that community. I was given the responsibility to lead a team of students at Westport Bible Church. I was somewhat apprehensive at first because as a January student I was not expecting to be thrown right into the battle. But as soon as I met the pastor, Dick Hoff, and the rest of the team, Jaimee Bolio and Tina Tidwell, I felt sure that God was going to do a special work through our team. Our church was a small one, averaging 50-60 people per week. It wasn't long, however, before some of the young people who had not come for a while started coming. The sporadic and often low attendance was sometimes frus trating, but we could see God working in the teens and the children. We were especially blessed by the hospitality of the church members. They sacrificed their privacy and opened their homes to us every weekend. A highlight of our time at Westport was the all-nighter at

Glens Falls. We took about 18 teens to the YMCA and had a great time playing basketball, racquetball, vol leyball and many other games. The team from Ches- tertown brought a group also. After one of the pastors spoke we were able to go one-on-one with the teens and talk to them about Christ. I have learned a lot at Westport. Pastor Hoff is a great example of being joyful no matter what the circumstances. I think that all the students who were involved in Local % I Church Ministry would agree that, even though we might have longed for a free weekend, the opportunity to grow close to a particular church family, and to see God work each week in our lives and in the lives of that church, was well worth the sacrifice. The friends we’ve made and the growth we’ve experienced, in good times and in trying ones, are God’s reward for our diligence. Jonathan Johnson

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^ Tammy Eldeen as Hattie” a somewhat rambunctious maid. ▼ Steve Clark as “Mr. Peters,” the head check-in man.

A Andy Eldeen and Anson Hanbury await their eternal doom. ► Kelly Ford as "Mrs. Bessemer” and Tammy Eldeen. ► Anson Hanbury and Lisa Broestler, “Aloquist”.

48 Ministries

WHICH WAY?

The lights come on and the receptionist is clearing away some papers on Mr. Peters’ desk. Soon people start flooding the office and the interrogations begin. The Which Way play has begun. It is a combination of comedy with a very serious message. In the fall the crew pre sented it to the students for the first time. The play challenged us to show other people the way to heaven before it is too late. In one of the parts of the play, a young man comes face to face

A Jeanna Little as “Mrs. Wormsley.” A Left: “...and then I fell and broke my neck." Mark Soto

with a friend from school and realizes that he never told her about Christ. The play addresses other issues such as the inability to buy your way into heaven and “being good enough.” i In addition to the performance at the BI, Which Way was presented during !the winter and spring quarters at the Inn : for Senior Class trips. The first year drama team also enjoyed traveling to churches and being involved in a youth rally in New Hampshire where they did the play as well as some skits. Many young people turned toward serving Christ with new excitement. • -Lisa Broestler

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A The Which Way Crew: Lisa Broestler, Anson Hanbury, Kelly Ford, Jenna Little, Mark Soto, Claire jeftha, Steve Clark, Tammy Eldeen, Michelle Gonska, Andy Eideen. Led by Laurie Parke.

The Which Way Play

The Bridge of Blood play based on the book by Elisabeth Elliot, Through Gates of Splendor, was the main emphasis of the second year drama team, On Call. The play foucused on the lives of five men of God and their wives. These men: Nate Saint, Jim Elliot, Pete Fleming, Ed McCully, and Roger Youderian had a calling from God to share the message of Christ with the Auca Indians in Ecuador. Little did they know that they would soon give their lives for the furtherance of the gospel. As Jim Elliot said, it was “...a reckless abandon to the will of God.” These men were martyred by the hands of savage Auca Indians. Today there is a thriving work of God going on among these same Indians who took the lives of these five missionaries. -Melissa Berry and JKarl Storman

A The On Call girls: Krista Abney, Wendy Barnes, Hannah Wildes, Stacy Bickings, and Melissa Berry.

AOn Call in action. ►Marty Schubert is disgusted by Travis Druck and Karl Storman as they show their true colors on the way to ministry.

▲ 'Hie Case: Nate Saiur-Kari Storman, Marj Saint-Melissa Berry, Jim Bitot Schubert, Elisabeth Ellior-Wendy Barnes, Pete Fleming-Sarn Lunsford, Olive Krista Abney & Laurie Parke. Eel McCidty- Travis Druck, Marilou McCully- Wikies. Roger Youderian- Stephen Boilers, Barbara Youderian- Stacy Bickings

AWhile in Florida, Wendy met the real Elisabeth Elliot. Karl Storman, Wendy Barnes, Elisabeth Elliot, and Melissa Berry.

On Call

Churchmouse This spring I had the wonderful opportunity to go on linistry with the Davolls, Christopher Churchmouse, and )usty the Mole. We traveled in Ontario, Canada going to hristian Schools in the morning and churches in the evenings. Ce also went to Word of Life Canada and had a great day in inch over 300 children came to have fun. This was rhe largest umber of kids rhey had ever had on the grounds. Most of us ot sick and very tired during this ministry but I know it was nly Satan's attempt to stop us from the great harvest we were oing to see. Over 2,000 people heard the good news of Jesus ihrist our Savior. Many children, parents, and youth leaders ccepted Christ! I thank the Lord for His ministry using the )avolls, Dave, Hope, and I. -Amy Glenn

k Christopher Churchmouse is swarmed by kids. ►Top: Dave Simpkins and Amy Glenn prepare for ministry. * Hope Thompson as Christopher Churchmouse.

i The churchmouse crew: Amy Glenn; Dave Simpkins (Dusty the Mole); tope Thompson (Christopher); Barbara Davoii, the creator, and Roy Davolt.

Churchmouse Ministry

A Many prizes are given out at Superbowls just before the meeting begins in hopes of getting the audience familiar with Word of Life.

Her name was Melissa. I met her during one of my ministry weekends last fall. To be quite honest, I don’t even remem ber what team number I was on! What I do remember was one conversation that made the whole quarter worthwhile... I was in Rhode Island somewhere, at my first Superbowl. I was attempting to put pizza onto plates. That’s when I met her. Melissa worked at Pizza Hut and she stayed at the bowling alley to help out. Talking helped to pass the time. She didn’t have a religion, I was looking to introduce her to Jesus. The pizza was gone and it was time for her to leave. I waited by the door with her for her ride. Before she stepped out of my presence she heard the plan of salvation. Her ride came and she left. I think about her often. I don’t think about how drenched I was in smoke, or the hard time I had keeping my eyes open for the fact of being up all night. I think about how Melissa stepped out of my life and into a dark eternity. I wonder if she takes time to think of me and the hope that was offered. I also wonder how many people there are out there like Melissa. Maybe one of these days you’ll talk to my friend Melissa, and she’ll understand.... -An encounter at a WOL Superbowl by Tricia Nolt.

52 Ministries

A Jen Thomas, Tricia Nolt, Rachel Goldthwaite, and Andy Arm strong are ready to pull an all-nighter as they begin their night of fun at a Superbowl. •^Martin Rembert gets his picture taken with a little buddy of his he met during a Superbowl.

Weekend Ministry Teams

The squeak of Nike Airs, surprise crash suicides, vegetable drills, the swish of co-captain Marcie Kirkman's lay-up, a swooshing trey of Becca Robinson's, jam-packed van rides, and the vitally important “black bag” stuffed between the scrumptious bag lunches. Finally the WOLBI girl's basketball team was off to one of their games. The exact route to destination probably unknown! Coach Denise Headdings, with Cedarville basketball experience behind her, “headed” up the girls' team. With practices, about twenty games, scrimmages with Mountainside, and two marathons on the roster, the team's ministry was packed with opportunities to witness. Although all thirteen “rookies” worked hard on team and in dividual basketball skills, the major emphasis had to be on Christ. After every game, all the girls would rummage through the notorious “black bag” for a supply of David Robinson and Tanya tracts. With survey, tracts and Testament in one hand, the team would slap the opposing team's hands in good sport. God gave the team many opportunities to share testimonies and the gospel with many girls, coaches, fans, and trainers through the avenue of Word of Life's religion survey. At almost every game, at least one girl accepted Christ as her personal Savior. Over the season about 25 to 30 girls chose new life through Christ's shed blood. continued ►

A The men's team is instructed by Coach during a time out. ► Coach Balsley and Naoto Yano talk to a member of the opposing team. This year's WOLBI men's basketball team had many great opportunities to share the gospel throughout many of the colleges and prisons in the Adirondack region. We had the opportunity to lead over fifty young men to Jesus Christ. It was a blessing to see the team aggressively seek out other players after the game and to share the good news of Jesus Christ. The team ended the season with a record of 13 wins and 7 losses. The team really came on at the end winning six out of their last seven games. I really enjoyed this group because they all had a heart to serve. -Coach Balsley Ministries

f After the game Ben Kerns uses a urvey to share God's great news of alvation.

A Dan Renno leads a member of the opposing team in prayer.

A Mike Cheeley, Dan Renno, and Jason Winters keep score at the game. Y Joe Yano makes a lay-up.

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Off the court the WOLBI girls' team gathers for a Bible ’study and also incorporated the drama “Guard Your Heart” into the ministry whenever possible. The spring quarter posed and opportunity to introduce a |church near Cortland, NY to the camps and various ministries of Word of Life. After assisting with the Cortland Basketball Marathon on April 1st, the team helped out with Sunday School, music, testimonies, and the drama in the church that Sunday. Some of the greatest times of team fellowship and encouragement might have been spent in the van traveling. The sharing of jokes, experiences, and testimonies, ac companied by heartfelt singing (on or off key) strengthened the team. Through this year, with God's help, the team has tried to maintain the attitude behind that catchy phrase, ‘‘They'll never care about Christ until they see how much you care.” All glory is due to God for the lives which have been Iaffected by this ministry. -Christy Marks

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...... .................. A Women's Basketball: Miss Headdings, Angel Comer, Laura Salamone, Jen Siggins, Tyara Burnett, Becca Robinson, Cynthia Sunden, Christy Greear Toni Levenseiler, Christy Marks, Kelly Ford, Courtney White, Carina Emerson, Mamie Booker. , .....

Basketball

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