The Ripple Effect of Life Change Joe Velarde’s Story
Seeds Sown Gospel Impact in the Philippines
Issue 20
CONTENTS
A Note from Don Lough, Jr. When I think of you, I am reminded of Romans 10:15, “As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!’” It fills me with such joy and gratitude when I think of your friendship with us at Word of Life, and, ultimately, your commitment to reaching this world with the gospel. In this issue of The Word of Life Experience magazine, you’ll explore a theme that resonates deeply with our mission and purpose – “engaging in life change.” The stories within these pages are more than just narratives. They are testaments to the transformative power of the gospel. Word of Life’s big vision is to see every young person take their next step with Jesus. Students long for the truth and hope that is only found in the Person of Christ. My prayer is that as you read these pages, you’re emboldened and encouraged to join this cause of bringing the light of the gospel to this generation in the darkened corners of the world. Thank you for being an integral part of engaging in life change. May we be stirred to continue our ministry, knowing we play a vital role in the grand narrative of God's redemptive plan.
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A Note from Don Lough, Jr. The Ripple Effect of Life Change: Joe Velarde’s Story
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Alumni Updates Alumni Weddings Seeds Sown: Gospel Impact in the Philippines Global Report Dedications Messengers Giving Program
EDITORIAL BOARD
Director of Word of Life Foundation – John Nelson Director of Marketing – John Yarosh
Editor in Chief – Hope (Trimble ‘20) Cate Copywriter – Tricia Hoganson ‘14 & ‘15 Designer – Teresa Stursberg ‘14 Advancement – Kay Gross Alumni Engagement Manager – Rebecca Berga ‘15 & ‘16 Alumni Relations – Ken Hayden ‘86 International Marketing Coordinator – Joshua Paulhamus ‘14 & ‘15 Social Media Manager – Noah Haneman ‘18 The Word of Life Experience is a publication of Word of Life. We want to build a community where you can find longtime friends, share testimonies of what God has been doing, encourage others with stories of life change, and learn how you, too, can be involved in the mission of Word of Life. ©Copyright 2024 – Word of Life Fellowship. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission. The perspectives of the author(s) in this magazine do not necessarily represent the perspectives of Word of Life Bible Institute and/or Word of Life Fellowship.
In His Service,
Don Lough, Jr. ’84 Chancellor, Bible Institute President and CEO, Word of Life Fellowship, Inc.
wol.is/home
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Pottersville, New York We are excited to welcome Bible Institute alumni, students, families, and friends for a time of fellowship and reunion in the stunning Adirondack Mountains! With an Alumnus of the Year award presentation, athletic events, and campus activities for all ages, this year’s New York Homecoming promises to be a weekend of fun your whole family can enjoy. Follow our alumni social media platforms to stay up to date on details, registration, and more!
@wordoflifealumni
@wolalumni
wol.is/nyhomecoming
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The Word of Life Experience
The Ripple Effect of Life Change Joe Velarde’s Story By Hope (Trimble '20) Cate
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When was the last time you saw God work through the faithful obedience of an ordinary person to do something extraordinary? In a life spent following Jesus, few things are more beautiful than seeing God use one simple investment of time, energy, care, or resources to make a cascading impact in a dark and despairing world. This idea of the ripple effect of life change is manifested in the story of Joe Velarde '00. Joe lives with his wife and seven-year-old son in Allentown, Pennsylvania, where Joe serves as the founder and pastor of Riverbend Community Church. As a guy who grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, Joe says he never imagined he would end up in the Northeast. Even more so, he emphasizes he never would have pursued a life of serving the Lord had it not been for those who faithfully invested in him through a difficult past. In sharing how God brought him from the challenges of his early years to where he is today, Joe highlights several people who had a profound influence in his life – catalysts of change that God used to prepare Joe for the impactful future He had planned for him.
“One of the major factors in me coming to Jesus was the fact that God brought men and women around me through my school and my church,” Joe shares. Several teachers and youth pastors came alongside Joe, praying for him and pouring into him through the toughest moments of his middle school and high school years – including the day he was put on probation at school and the evening he was taken in handcuffs to spend the night in a juvenile detention center. “They purposefully spent time with me, tangibly meeting the needs my brothers and I had. They practically demonstrated who Jesus was.” These role models didn’t give up on Joe through his struggles as a teenager. God used them to bring Joe to the point of trusting Christ in high school and dedicating his life fully to the Lord upon graduating. It was at the crossroads of graduation that God used a young youth leader named Bryan Kelso to encourage Joe in his next steps. Joe describes Bryan as a big brother; he gave him a Study Bible, helped him learn how to drive, and was a key part of his journey from high school into adulthood. “Bryan said to me, ‘Hey man, I think it would be really good for you to go to Word of Life Bible Institute.’” Bryan’s father and grandfather both served on the board of directors with Word of Life, and Bryan believed the Bible Institute
would be the ideal place for Joe to become grounded in his walk with God. “I had no concept of Word of Life at that point in my life,” Joe remarks as he looks back on that day. Nevertheless, Joe took his trusted friend’s advice and started making plans to pursue the Bible Institute. As Joe considered furthering his education and preparing for ministry, he faced a seemingly insurmountable obstacle. “I wanted to pursue youth ministry and attend Word of Life Bible Institute, but I didn’t know how I was going to pay for it.” As Joe confided in others about his dilemma, one friend asked, “Have you really prayed about this?” He challenged Joe to trust that God could make a way. Joe went home and prayed. Then, he decided to go to the bank and see what his options were. “As I was walking out the door, my phone rang. It was Elise Carey, who would later marry my friend, Bryan. She said, ‘My dad would like to have you over for dinner tonight. He wants to hear more about what you’re envisioning for your education.’” Elise’s parents were Max and Susan Carey, another influential couple in Joe’s life. “Max was a businessman, and he wanted to hear a bit about my story and aspirations. He dismissed everyone from the table so that it was just him and me.” Nervously, 17-year-
BRYAN KELSO MAX CAREY
The Word of Life Experience SUSAN CAREY AMY PETERS
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Joe and his wife, Amy, at Word of Life Bible Institute in the spring of 2000.
Baptizing a Riverbend member who had recently become a follower of Jesus.
Leading a gathering of churches dedicated to multiplying disciples, ministries, and churches.
old Joe presented his plans and hopes to the man sitting across from him at the dinner table. After Joe finished, Max simply said, “I believe in you. I invest in winners. You’re articulate, and I know you haven’t had an easy life. I want to pay for your schooling.” Max went on to pay for Joe’s tuition, his travel, and the clothing he needed for his year at the Bible Institute.
and do that in someone else’s life,” Joe explains.
married four years later. Amy was from Allentown, Pennsylvania. God would later use her to give Joe a heart for the Lehigh Valley area, where they live and serve today. Lastly, the people who impacted Joe’s life were part of a ripple effect that continues to transform lives to this day. After Joe had served as an intern at a church in Georgia and as a youth leader in Pennsylvania, God laid it on Joe’s heart to start a church plant in the Lehigh Valley region. “I didn’t really know how church planting worked,” Joe said with a laugh. “Over time, however, God allowed us to birth Riverbend Community Church by His grace and through a great team of people.” God has provided a wealth of opportunities for Joe’s church family to be part of reaching their community with the hope of Jesus, including partnering with a nearby college ministry, planning outreach events with a local baseball team, and hosting a prom night for people with special needs. Looking to the future, Joe is excited to launch initiatives that will equip young professionals for gospel-driven ministry. “We’ve been thinking a lot about creating spaces for the next generation of Christian leaders – whether that’s through internships, apprenticeships, or residency programs. Our hope is
Second, God used the practical investment of people like Max Carey to open doors for spiritual growth. In reflecting on his time at the Bible Institute, Joe shares how God used this year to challenge him personally before he launched into ministry.
The people who invested in Joe’s life over the years could not have known Joe would go on to plant and pastor Riverbend Church, encourage other churches in growth and outreach, and found a network...
The people who invested in Joe’s life over the years could not have known Joe would go on to plant and pastor Riverbend Church, encourage other churches in growth and outreach, and found a
network called “Vision for the Valley” (a resource to support Christian leaders and business owners in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania). And yet, they chose to faithfully pour into a young life out of their love and commitment to God. Reflecting on his journey, Joe recounts several ways Max, Bryan, and others were used by God to make an eternal impact. First, the Christ-followers in Joe’s school and church filled a void of godly role models and inspired young Joe to serve Jesus with His life. “I was so impacted by my teachers, youth leaders, and pastors that I knew I would consider it a joy and an honor to take what I had received from them
“Specifically, God used my time of preparation for the Bible Institute to confront me with a question: Would I give God access to every area of my life – specifically my dating relationships?” Dating had been a difficult area in Joe’s life, and he knew he needed to trust the Lord with it. Stepping out in faith, Joe prayed, “The next time I date, I have to see a future that is centered around you, Jesus.” Just a few months later, Joe met Amy Peters '99 & '00 at the New York Bible Institute campus. “I had a sense very early on that she was going to be my wife,” Joe shared. “I used to go to the building formerly known as Council Hall and pray for God’s will to be done in that relationship.” Joe and Amy were
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Riverbend holding the 8th annual prom for the special needs commu- nity in collaboration with the Tim Tebow Foundation.
that, as we’re opening these opportunities for younger people, we’re changing the tide.”
Calling All Bible Institute Graduates! Did you know you can make an impact by giving Alumni Encour- agement Awards to prospective students? There is no limit to the number of students who can receive the award from you, and this $750 scholarship could be just the encouragement a young person needs to build a biblical foundation at Word of Life Bible Institute. One Alumni Encour- agement Award is included in this magazine, and you can print more from our alumni page online.
Having been so profoundly affected by the kindness of faithful believers, Joe has a unique vantage point to speak into the role of Christians as the hands and feet of Christ. When asked what he would say to readers who want to engage in life change, Joe recommends starting with prayer and looking for ways to have a caring and hospitable presence in the lives of others. “Jesus didn’t have a home while He lived on earth,” he shares, “but He showed great hospitality in how He related to others. As we follow His example, we can engage people by asking questions and showing genuine care for them.” He explains that even thanking the cashier at the grocery store or asking if they would like prayer are ways to invite people in and spark gospel-driven conversations. “Like I tell the people in my church, we can all be CEOs (chief encouragement officers)!” In your daily life, you might not see the result of one act of encouragement – whether it be a prayer for someone you encounter on the street, a word of wisdom to a friend, or the gift of time and energy to fulfill a practical need. And yet, as Joe’s story reveals, God can use both the biggest and the smallest investments to transform lives, churches, and communities.
Joe,
Amy,
& Ray
wol.is/alumni
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The Word of Life Experience
National Volunteer Program
Serve in Community for the Glory of God
Are you looking for an opportunity to use your talents and abilities to make a lasting impact? As part of the National Volunteer Program, you can join an encouraging community that is dedicated to serving for the glory of God. Whether through maintaining our facilities, helping with ministry operations, or serving the guests on our properties, each volunteer plays a significant role in reaching youth and families for Jesus Christ. In addition to service opportunities, volunteers can experience life-chang- ing discipleship and community in an encouraging Christian environment. We accommodate individuals, cou- ples, families, and groups (housing and meals are provided). Come with a servant’s heart, and your life will never be the same! Visit wol.is/volunteer or scan the QR code to learn more about how you can serve.
Volunteer Anytime
There are volunteer opportunities in both New York and Florida all year long. Check with the NVP office for more information about our current projects.
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Florida / October 15, 2024
A Day to Get Equipped and Encouraged
Photos from Portion Conference, October 2023
We are so excited about The Portion Conference at Word of Life Florida! This event is for teachers, ministry directors, pastors, or anyone in a leadership role. With engaging worship, practical breakout sessions, and encouraging seminars for both men and women, The Portion Conference will equip you with the skills and knowledge to lead with excellence wherever God has called you. Visit wol.is/portion or scan the QR code to learn more.
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The Word of Life Experience
A WEEK OF RENEWAL FOR ALL AGES
“This week at camp, God has taught me that He is loving and merciful. Even when I make mistakes, He is quick to forgive and slow to anger. I feel more equipped and ready to share the gospel with friends who don’t know.”
– Camper at The Coast
Are you looking for a summer escape that will help you and your family take your next steps with Jesus? Book your week at Word of Life Youth and Family Camps! While your child or teen is having a blast at one of our exciting, Christ-centered youth camps, you can enjoy a week of rest and refreshment at the Retreat Center in Florida or The Pines in New York. If you prefer a family camping expe- rience, The Pines offers biblical teaching and fun campground activities for every age group. No matter which option you choose, you can expect a life-changing getaway with a lasting impact on the entire family!
THE COAST Ages 6–18 Hudson, FL
THE RANCH Grades 1–5 Pottersville, NY
wol.is/coast
wol.is/ranch
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SUMMER ALUMNI
GATHERINGS If you are a graduate of Word of Life Bible Institute, be sure to join us on our New York property for a time of refreshment and encouraging updates on the ministry. Alumni gatherings will take
place weekly during the summer camp season.
Watch for more information on our alumni social media pages!
THE ISLAND Grades 9–12 Schroon Lake, NY
@wordoflifealumni @wolalumni
THE RIDGE Grades 6–8 Pottersville, NY
wol.is/island
THE PINES Families and Individual Guests Pottersville, NY
“The Pines kids’ programs are excellent, with such caring staff for our three and six-year-old! The food is excellent, and the speakers are of great quality. The time for parents to have rest and learning during the kids’ programs is a real blessing.”
wol.is/ridge
wol.is/pines
– Guest at The Pines
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Alumni Updates All the latest news from our Bible Institute graduates! 1970’s
Christopher ‘14 and Kaitlin (Smith ‘14) Gardner
Wanda (Cameron ‘74) Locke and her husband, Robbie, live in Maine. They have two adult children: Toby and Jodi. Wanda has served as a pastor’s wife as well as a missionary in South America. She has taught in the Christian school and public school systems for over 20 years. Tamara “Tammy” (Reed ‘74) Roe and her husband, Frank, live in London, Ontario. Frank came to the Bible Institute during the summer of 1976 and took camping and counseling courses. They have three married children and seven grandchildren. Tammy and Frank are missionaries with Crossworld Canada, where Frank serves as Director of Mobilization. Frank also teaches for Word of Life Bible Institutes around the world. Tammy works as an office manager for a small organization that holds Bible clubs in the public schools of southwestern Ontario. She also serves on the mission field of the University of Western Ontario in hospitality
services during the school year. Both jobs are part time, which allows Tammy to travel with Frank from time to time.
Gina (Barreca ‘74) Liesveld and her husband, Steve, live in Bradenton, Florida. Gina is retired. She and her husband have one adult daughter, Rachel, and five grandchildren. Teri (Felska ‘74) Van Schoick lives in New Jersey, where she works as Administrative Assistant to the Lead Pastor at Central: A Christ-Centered Church. At church, she also leads a membership class and teaches a women’s Life Group.
We have been in the ministry for 45.5 years, training leaders and teaching
students – first with Word of Life clubs and overseas ministries for just under 16.75 years, then with ABWE for 21.25 years, and now with Crossworld for 7.5 years. – Tammy (Reed ‘74) Roe Carl Gibbs ‘74 and his wife, Beverly, live in Hagerstown, Maryland, where Carl is Associate Pastor at Evangel Baptist Church. He is also a part-time motor coach driver. He and Beverly have four adult children: Silas, Caleb, Joel, and Hannah.
Rosemary Schoellkopf ‘74 is retired and lives in New Jersey.
James Balsano ‘74 and his wife, Kathleen, live in Glen Spey, New York. They have two adult children: Ethan and Mikaela. James is a business owner and serves as a deacon at church.
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Hal ‘74 and Nancy (Bower ‘74) Bennett live in North Hudson, New York. Hal is retired and serves as Deacon Chair at church. Randy Wilding ‘74 and his wife, Margaret, live in Gainesville, Florida. They have three married children and six grandchildren. Randy is a retired pastor after serving for 37 years. Since 2020, he has been the Executive Director of Strategic Advancement for Gospel Empowerment International (SAGE). 1980’s Colleen (Shaw ‘81) Walters and her husband, Kevin, are missionaries with SIM USA, serving in Africa as linguists and translators. When in the US, they make their home in Ticonderoga, New York. They have six adult children: Jonathan, Josiah, Anna, Stephen, Daniel, and Matthew. Colleen and Kevin have 22 grandchildren (so far). Greg ‘85 and Gina (Hutley ‘85) Dyson live in Indiana, where they both work for Taylor University. Greg serves as Vice President for Spiritual Life and Intercultural Leadership, and Gina works for the university bookstore. Greg is also Campus Pastor and serves as Educational Chairperson for Baptist Fellowship Association.
Home Decor at Hobby Lobby. At church, she is a youth group leader for ninth-grade girls. Bill ‘95 and Tracie (Evans ‘95) Schloer live in Delaware, and they have three children: Evelyn (21), Aaron (18), and Austin (14). Bill works as IT Director for Tile Market of Delaware, and Tracie serves as Employee Benefits Operation Leader for USI Insurance Services, LLC. Tim Aspin ‘96 is married to Sarah, and they live in Michigan. They have three children: Cydney (17), Cody (15), and Caleb (13). Tim works as a sales service representative for Cintas. At church, he is involved in the children’s ministry and the men’s softball ministry. Christopher DeLong ‘97 and his wife, Sorhaya, moved to Londonderry, New Hampshire, with their family last year after living in Brazil for many years. They have two children: Mattheos (14) and Gabriella (13). Christopher is the owner and operator of the business, Make Your English Better. Elizabeth “Beth” (Reilly ‘98) Malinis and her husband, Roby, live in New Jersey. They have two children: Claire (6) and Charlie (4). Beth enjoys being a wife and mom and working part-time as a mother and baby nurse and a lactation consultant. My walk with the Lord was strengthened and grew so much [with Word of Life]. Serving on The Island and on Youth Reachout was so memorable. – Beth (Reilly ‘98) Malinis James Stargel ‘99 is married to Stacy, and they live in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. They have three children: Eli (16), Caleb (14), and Lily (13). James is Family Ministries Pastor at Living Water Community Church in Harrisburg. Kurt Mills ‘99 and his wife, Jana, live in Raleigh, North Carolina. Kurt is a trooper for the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. Ed ’98 & ‘99 and Laura (Christ ‘99 & ‘00) Choy live in Maryland. They have four children: Elijah (19), Ephram (17), Emet (15), and Karis (8). Ed serves as Senior Pastor of Restoration Church in Gaithersburg, a
church his family was a part of planting in 2016. Laura helps with the children and hospitality ministry. They both lead a men’s or women’s group. All their children help with setup at church, and their boys run A/V. It is truly a family ministry. Ed also has a wedding officiating business. He officiates about 50 weddings per year and trains pastors all over the country how to officiate as well. After 18 years of staying home with the kids, Laura now works full-time as a manager at My Gym. 2000’s Rebecca (Simons ‘00) Maston is married to Jarrod, and they live in Iowa. At church, Rebecca is involved in music and children’s ministries. Arnaldo Silva ‘03 and his wife, Michelle, live in South Carolina. Arnaldo is the pastor at Iglesia Refugio in Greenville and serves as Hispanic Strategic Chaplain with Greenville Baptist Association. Arnaldo graduated from Word of Life Bible Institute in Sao Paulo, Brazil. He and Michelle have four children: Mikeila ‘21 (also an alumnus), Iana, Esteban ‘24 (a current Bible Institute student), and Gabriel. John Curtis Anderson ‘08 lives in Florida, where he owns the business, Under Pressure Home Solutions.
Our lives were changed at Word of Life Bible Institute. – Greg Dyson ‘85
Camp was a life-changing experience I will never forget with some of the best
Garth ‘87 and Ashley (Gardner ‘87) Allen live in New York, where Garth serves as Spiritual Life Director at Silver Bay YMCA. Garth is a pastor there and oversees the Pastoral Respite Ministry, which offers retreat and refreshment free of charge for ministers, missionaries, and others involved in ministry. Following Word of Life Bible Institute, Garth went on to earn a B.S. in biology from Messiah College, a M.Div. from Asbury Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. from Southern Methodist University. Ashley is a special education teacher at Great Meadow Correctional Facility, where she helps young people earn their GEDs. 1990’s Merry (Stoltz ‘93) Geibel and her husband, Fred, live in Pennsylvania. They have four children: Emilie (24), Abigail (21), and Jonathan (14). Merry is Customer Service Manager and Department Head in
friends I’ve ever made.
– John Curtis Anderson ‘08
Christopher Anastasi ‘09 and his wife, Sara, live in Okeechobee, Florida. They have two children: Josiah (14) and Ava (5). Christopher works as a boat builder. 2010’s Dimitri Stevanus ‘11 and his wife, Lexi, live in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where Dimitri works as a salesman. They have a six-month-old son, Luciano. At church, Dimitri facilitates a Bible study and teaches Sunday School. Jocelyn Clark ‘12 & ‘14 lives in Newport News, Virginia, where she is an eighth- grade special education teacher at a Title I school.
13 The Word of Life Experience
What Is Your Favorite WOLBI Memory?
Joseph Taylor ‘13 lives in Florida. He works for Instacart serving in their grocery shopping and delivery service. Charity (Smith ‘13) Chu and her husband, Andy, live in Taiwan. They have a one-year- old son, Aiden. Charity and Andy serve in Taiwan with Cru. Christopher ‘14 and Kaitlin (Smith ‘14) Gardner live in Corinth, New York. They have four children ranging in age from six months old to kindergarten: Kinsley, Corbin, Carson, and Colton. Chris pastors First Baptist Church of Corinth, while Kaitlin is a stay-at-home mom and a women’s ministry leader. Lisa (Konawel ‘15) Russell and her husband, Kameron, live in Palm Bay, Florida, where Lisa works as an accountant. Abigail (Folmsbee ‘17) Brustle is married to Austin, and they live in New York. Abigail serves as Office Manager at Perth Bible Church. Wesley Britos ‘18 and his wife, Rebecca, live in Hudson, Florida, where Wesley is working on the grounds team at Word of Life and pursuing a bachelor's degree in Bible with Liberty University Online. He is working towards becoming a chaplain in the US Air Force. Daniel Lopez ‘18 and his wife, Emma, live in Hudson, Florida. They have a six-month- old son, Lucas. Daniel serves with Word of Life in Florida as Head of Counseling for camp and as a Camps/Ministries Intern during the academic year. Jessica (Elmer ‘19) Aho is married to Bradley, and they live in Michigan. Jessica is a stay-at-home mom to their nine-month- old son, Wyatt. 2020’s Novalie (Norton ‘22) Miller is married to Jordan, and they live in Ohio. Novalie is a homemaker.
“… growing in my spiritual life… Miss Hughes and her
kindness in helping me adjust to college life; and traveling with the choir.” – Teri (Felska ‘74) Van Schoick “… meeting my lovely wife, Ashley, and making several lifelong friends. My year at the Bible Institute was the beginning of making the Christian faith a central part of my life and
eventually sensing God's
call into full-time ministry.”
– Garth Allen ‘87
“Going to El Salvador and showing love to the children in the orphanage.”
– Jocelyn Clark ’12 & ‘14
“… probably the late- night worship sessions in the hallways of the Florida Conference Center!” – Abigail (Folmsbee ‘17) Brustle “… the Christ-like influence of the staff members. I loved being an RA under Melissa Paris in my second year, and I learned so much from Ryan Arnold. The staff was probably the highlight
of my experience.”
– Novalie (Norton ‘22) Miller
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Ed ’98 & ‘99 and Laura (Christ ‘99 & ‘00) Choy (left)
William ‘21 & ‘22 and Olivia (Hoover ‘21 & ‘22) Ashley (right)
Greg ‘85 and Gina (Hutley ‘85) Dyson (far left)
Randy Wilding '74 (center)
Christopher Anastasi '09 (right)
Colleen Walters '81 (center)
Wesley Britos '18 (far left)
Kurt Mills ‘99 (left center)
Charity Chu '13 (right center)
James Stargel '99 (far right)
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Photos from New York Homecoming, October 2023
Staying connected to you is so important to us! What’s new in your life?
• Marriage? • New family member?
• Job promotion? • Ministry update?
Whatever it is, we want to know! Update your information with the alumni office today. Simply fill out the form at wol.is/alumniupdate or scan the QR code.
wol.is/alumniupdate
@wordoflifealumni
@wolalumni
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Alumni Weddings
2023 May 6 Barnabas ‘21 & ‘22 and Hannah (Adelsberger ‘20 & ‘21) Bittner June 11 Luke ‘18 & ‘19 and Abigail (Moore ‘19) Moffitt
July 30 Mario and Julia (Freebern ‘20) LaGuardia August 12 Joe '14 and Sarah (Fogle '15) Owens August 25 Austin and Abigail (Folmsbee ‘17) Brustle September 2 George ‘15 and Rylee Homoelle September 30 Elijah and Evoni (Sinclair ‘17) Martin
William and Tiffany (Colwell ‘08) Dunlap James and Hannah (Gow ‘11 & ‘12) Ware
October 7 Cian ‘21 and Sydni Bresnahan
Ethan ‘16 and Elizabeth Speechley October 14 Ben ‘22 & ‘23 and Jane (Jobe ‘22 & ‘23) Koehler October 20 Ryan '20 and Olivia (Parker ‘22 & ‘23) Haneman November 12 Joshua and Emily (Ray ‘19 & ‘20) Pietrowicz Jaden and Alexa (Miller ‘18) Skillman November 18 Benjamin “Benjy” ‘21 and Kaitlyn Homoelle Trevor ‘22 and Virginia "Ginger" (Alexander ‘22) Buzby November 25 James ‘19 and Kelly (Fedora ‘19) Ashley December 10 Joel ‘21 & ‘22 and Jocelyn “Joci” (Lockwood ‘22) Koehler December 17 Samuel and Sarah (Smith ‘20) Harris December 30 William ‘21 & ‘22 and Olivia (Hoover ‘21 & ‘22) Ashley
Ryan '20 and Olivia (Parker ‘22 & ‘23) Haneman
2024 January 4 Joshua and Caitlin (Quesenberry ‘20) Curtis
Photo credit: Lexi Johnson '21
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Nervous about Estate Planning? PhilanthroCorp Will Walk You through the Process
If you’re intimidated by the thought of getting your estate documents in order, you’re not alone. Surveys show over 60% of people do not have a current will or estate plan. Word of Life Foundation partners with PhilanthroCorp to offer confidential estate planning services. They answer questions and offer solutions to ensure your plan is up to date.
“Annie and I were utterly mind boggled by estate planning. PhilanthroCorp came along and led us through it in the most straightforward, professional way possible. To our surprise, none of it was overly complex. In fact, Annie and I found a lot of positives while going through it! We recommend PhilanthroCorp to everyone.”
– Jeff and Annie Shipman
Joshua ‘14 and Katrina Cook Word of Life Foundation, to start the process today. Scan the QR code or contact John Nelson, the director of
wol.is/philanthrocorp
johnn@wol.org / 518.494.6217
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Word of Life Island, Schroon Lake, NY
SEEDS SOWN: Gospel Impact in the Philippines
At Word of Life, we believe God can use something as simple as a deci- sion made in the heart of a young person to change lives around the world. While we may never know the impact of obedience, we rejoice when we can see the fruit of seeds planted in faith.
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In 1956, Dick Roe boarded a freighter and began his journey to the Philippines. He had joined Wycliffe Bible Translators and was being sent to learn the Isnag language. He landed in the Philippines and arrived by canoe to the village of Dibagat a week and a half later. Nard was seven years old when Dick Roe arrived, and he remembers how the people of his village were suspicious of this stranger. As they began to communicate with him, they asked him why he was there. Dick Roe explained that he had come to give them God’s Word in their language. Weary of living in fear under animism, the Isnag people were interested to hear what the missionary had to say about this good and powerful God.
Philippine Mountains
Dick Roe Camp Week
In 1949, 18-year-old Dick Roe sat by the campfire at Word of Life Island and listened as Jack Wyrtzen preached. During the message, God challenged this young camper to dedicate his life to serving the Lord through missionary work. After Jack finished speaking, Dick Roe got up from his seat and threw a stick in the campfire. It was a seemingly insignificant act that symbolized a life- altering decision, a small seed that would grow beyond what Dick Roe could imagine as a teenager at camp. Thousands of miles away, a baby boy named Nard Pugyao was born in a hut in the jungle. Nard and his family lived in the village of Dibagat and were part of the Isnag people group in the northern region of the Philippines. The Isnag people followed an animistic worship system, making sacrifices to appease the spirits and living in bondage to omens and witch doctors. Little did they know God would intertwine the stories of Dick Roe and Nard Pugyao, using them to shine the light of the gospel into their mountain village.
Luke Isnag Translation
While Nard recalls hearing the missionary share about God, it wasn’t until reading from the Gospel of Mark in his heart language that he truly understood the gospel. “It was Christmas Day in 1963 when I received the Gospel of Mark translated in Isnag,” Nard shares. “I was sitting on top of a rock below my village. As I was reading, it was as if God removed the veil from my eyes. I could see who the Son of God was for the first time.” As Nard read the crucifixion account, he began to grow angry at God. He couldn’t understand why this powerful God allowed His Son to be killed by cruel men. “I remember throwing my Gospel of Mark down onto the rocks and saying, ‘I’ll never believe in a God like that!’ As I started walking back to the village, God reached into my little heart, saying, ‘Nard, don’t you realize this is how much I love you, that I gave my Son for you?’ For the very first time, I understood His grace.”
Dick Roe and Nard
Village Huts in the Isnag Area
21 The Word of Life Experience
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The years following Nard’s salvation brought an incredible journey orchestrated by the hand of God. Nard explains that he wanted to attend high school but could not afford to go. “Little did I know that God had a ‘flight plan’ for me!” God opened a door for Nard to fly to the southern part of the Philippines where he could attend high school. Over time, God grew a desire in Nard’s heart to become a missionary pilot. He went on to serve with Wycliffe for 40 years, contributing to the translation of the Isnag New Testament in 1980 and completing 8,000 flight hours. Through the years, Nard encouraged many Isnag people to study at Word of Life Bible Institute in the Laguna province of the Philippines. There, people from Nard’s homeland could gain a foundation in God’s Word and receive training for ministry. Many of these Bible Institute graduates returned to the Isnag people to serve as pastors, worship leaders, and children’s ministry workers.
Mark trusted Christ as Savior at Word of Life, and he went on to serve as the pastor of Dibagat Bible Church in 2008. “But I really wanted to have the Bible in my own heart language,” he explains. At that point, only the New Testament along with a few books from the Old Testament had been written in Isnag. With perseverance, Mark worked alongside Rudy Barlaan (a translator who served with Dick Roe and continued the work after Dick went home to be with the Lord) to complete the translation.
Children standing outside Dibagat Bible Church
Nard at FL Missions Conference 2024
Isnag Bible Dedication Candlelight Service
Mark Pugayo Family Photo
Nard – Missionary Pilot
One person who was profoundly impacted by the ministry of Word of Life Philippines was Nard’s nephew, Mark Pugyao.
“I came to know Christ in 2002,"
Nard at Bible Dedication
Mark shares. “My sister was at Word of Life Bible Institute, and she asked if I could attend the youth camp there.” Mark describes himself as lost at that point in his life. When the pastor preached the gospel message at camp, however, everything changed. “As I sat there, the Lord opened my heart. I was crying. I realized I was a sinner, and I needed a Savior in my life.”
Philippine Road
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Bible Translation Books
WOLBI Alumni and WOL Taiwan Team at Dedication Event
The year of 2023 was a time of celebration for Christ-followers in the Philippines. Not only did Word of Life celebrate its fiftieth year of ministry in the Philippines, but on June 25 of 2023 – over 66 years after Dick Roe brought the gospel to the jungle village – the Isnag people gathered in Dibagat to dedicate the first full Bible in their heart language! Nard had the joy of being present to hand out Bibles during the celebration. In tears, he describes the wonder of seeing the great work God had done in the lives of His people – a work that began with seeds sown in the hearts of those willing to bring the gospel across the globe. “What if they had said, ‘No?’” Nard reflected. “That would be the end of the story. But God said, ‘This is what I want to be done.’ And I marvel in awe and say, ‘God, this is it!’” God can use a seed sown in the heart of a teenage camper to change the world. We serve Him expectantly, knowing the same God who worked in Dick Roe’s heart in 1949 is alive and working today.
Scan the QR code or visit wol.is/isnag to watch this incredible story unfold in a brand-new featurette created by our Word of Life team serving in Taiwan.
wol.is/isnag
23 The Word of Life Experience
Stories of Ministry Around the World
Brazil Word of Life first came to Brazil in 1957 and has grown tremendously over the decades as a nationwide ministry with 11 locations! Word of Life Sao Paulo recently welcomed 150 guests to their “seminary for a weekend” event. This weekend yielded a record number of potential candidates for the program, and staff are praying that the Lord would prepare each of them to reach others with biblical truth – both in Brazil and around the world.
Hungary The Hungary Word of Life Bible Institute is a unique and special place, which is due in part to its incredibly culturally diverse campus. This year, the 56 students on campus are from 17 countries around the world! Not only do students build lifelong friendships with classmates from across the globe, but they also learn how to effectively reach and serve people from linguistic and social backgrounds that are different from their own.
South Korea Considering the difficult religious climate of South Korea, the Word of Life team has found it helpful to expose young people to biblical truth over multiple years. It often starts with an introduction at their school or church, then youth camp, then SYME (an English immersion program), and finally, the opportunity to attend Word of Life Bible Institute. Not only is this a strategic method of multiplication, but it also allows students who don’t know the Lord to experience long-term, gospel-driven relationships designed to point them to Christ.
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Word of Life Hungary Campus
Romania In a nation where only 3.5 percent of the population claim to be believers, Word of Life missionaries are seeking to reach the hearts of young people with the light of Christ. Over the past summer camp season alone, Word of Life Romania welcomed 479 campers through six weeks of camp. Of these campers, 183 trusted Christ as Savior and 236 dedicated their lives to Him!
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Word of Life Board of Directors
We Thank God for You! At Word of Life, we are grateful for your commitment to helping every young person take their next step with Jesus. It is because of the faithful prayers and support of friends like you that we can continue to reach the next generation with the gospel. If you would like to learn more about how you can partner with Word of Life, please contact our Advancement Team at 518.494.6000 or advancement@wol.org .
Officers Dr. Donald H. Lough, Jr. – President Mr. B. John Nelson – Vice President/Treasurer Lt. Col. Walter R. Price (Ret.) – Secretary
Directors Dr. Mark L. Bailey Dr. John S. Barnett Mr. Mark R. Berardelli Mr. Andrew C. Brown Mr. Bob G. Brown
Mr. Roger L. Burdick Mr. Robert C. Doll, Jr. Dr. Christopher Gnanakan Mr. Cory J. Hansen Mr. Robert L. Horst Mrs. Riley Hoselton Mr. Joseph J. Hunt Mr. Robert L. Lanyon Mr. Chad J. Lubke Dr. Ronald D. Moore Rev. Philip A. Moser II Mr. John M. Page
Mr. Jonathan H. Price Mr. John H. Reimer, Jr. Mr. Kristopher M. Stout Capt. Dane C. Swanson, USN (Ret.) Mr. Ronald D. Wyrtzen
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In Memory of:
Roberta Adam Terrence and Patricia Brown
Dick and Bernice Graser George Erckert Doug Gross Maplehurst Baptist Church
Donna, Michael, and Rachel Chappa Connecticut Lighting Center Steve and Patty Gorss Richard Lang Donna Lopez, Esq Richard Oliver Thomas and Christine Owens Frank and Kathleen Perlitz David and Suzanne Pfisterer Warren and Lucy Spence
The Jewell Family Peter Nauta
Roberts Wesleyan University Tony Wagner Gene and Lois Wing
Kevin A. Rovito James and Nicole Eschler
Ann Barnett Bob and Sue Brown
Linda Stevenson Laurel Bartolomeo
Charles Scheide Bob and Sue Brown Ken and Kathleen Hahn Clara “Clare” Schlueter Paula Dickson Lee Halter Samuel and Mary Kobylar Sondra McEleg Dwight and Rachel Moore Scott Nason Karen and Rick Norman Anthony Papa Barbara Palmer
Ron Boss Bob and Sue Brown
Richard Herriman Debbie Ayala
Hal Stone Reilly Thomas
Paul Bubar Scott Nason
Sharon Hershberger Brian and Jodie Vining
Joan Sturgis Bob and Sue Brown Jacquie Cotton Dale and Carolyn Sanville Michael Tovish
Bill Buren Bethany Leszczewski
Rob Hesseling Terry Hesseling
Jimmie David McKinney Benjamin McConnell
Phyllis Canary Bob and Sue Brown
Andy and Joan Horner Megan Welch
Bill Swanson Bob and Sue Brown
Jim Miller Mark and Nancy Grieb
Noah Carver Irene Carver
William C Thomas Christine Thomas
Kathleen Schlueter Robert and Penny Schlueter William and Judith Schlueter Patricia Simmeth Laureen Slater Carlton and Dorothy Shupp Brenda and James Cooley
Abram Horst John and Judy Martin
Jane Nauta The Jewell Family
Jane Cotton Warren and Lucy Spence
Mark Thomas Reilly Thomas
Rev. Roy Hunter Michael Hendricks
Doris Prange Jonathan Brewer Amy Prange Barbara Prange
Kendall Fleming Bob and Sue Brown Jeanne Estep Cheryl Fleming
Andrew Trageser Barbara Ann Conlogue
Brent Stephen Ice Stephen Switzer
Roger Twidt Bob and Sue Brown
Herschel Pumphrey Janet Koch
James and Judy Hawn John and Carolyn Roller Warren and Kaye Thoma Todd and Sherri Troutman
Patrick Karriker Jamie Karriker
Sandra VanDyk Bob and Sue Brown
Eduardo Quan Melvin Quan
Ralph Luoma Julie Hoang Anessa Le
Ron Stansbury David Bassinger
My Mother, Julia Gaysunas Karen Gordon
Christine Woolley David and Carol Woolley
Leah Relyea Paula Dickson Sondra McElroy Rick and Karen Norman Barbara Palmer Evelyn (Dolly) Rouser Ruth Adams Bob and Sue Brown
Bob and Sue Brown Bruce and Dana Dick Jonathan and Robin Jewell Jeff and Michele Jones Larry and Pat Miller Roger and Barbara Murdock
Deb O’Donnell David O’Donnell
Judy Yorke Bob and Sue Brown
Arthur Geruldsen Bob and Pat Brickel
Samuel Matos Steven Abrams Carmody/Sandak/ Hennessey LLP
Judy Goodnow Cara Trantham
In Honor of: Cliff Bone Ricky and Leslie Bone
Carol Passaro Julia Bauer
Teresa Unkefer R.D. Unkefer
Ezra’s Birthday Isabel Balboa
Justin Michael Sadler Craig and Cindy Corey
Skyler Vanderwier Nancy Neubauer
Michael and Linda Donahue Rebecca Survant
Jay Sublett John Aldridge
Macy Wallace’s Birthday Deborah Welborn
Sally Thomas Reilly Thomas
Aliza Williams Shaun Williams
Adam Cook and Jan Halik John and Donna Lopardo Mike Nicholes 35 Years of Serving Faithfully in Korea John and Bonnie Barnett
Laura Tapia Dennis and Melissa McGinness
All Word of Life Missionaries Philip Gable
Pastor Trent’s 23rd Anniversary in Ministry Sharon Rogers
Stu Page Christy Page
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Scan the QR code or visit wol.is/messengers to learn more about our new monthly donor community!
Are you interested in partnering on an even deeper level in Word of Life’s mission to reach the next generation? Join our new monthly donor community designed to help you engage with the ministry in a unique and meaningful way! You’ll receive behind-the-scenes content showcasing life change as well as access to a streamlined donation platform to make your giving intuitive and stress free.
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