Alumnus of the Year: Dennis D’Augostine

Dennis D’Augostine, Class of 1999 and 2000, has been honored twice with the C. Sumner Wemp Award in Personal Evangelism. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Baptist Bible College and master’s degrees in both ministry and divinity from Baptist Bible Seminary. Dennis and his wife, Kelly, have two sons, Michael and Matthew, and live in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

If you’ve visited Word of Life recently, there’s a good chance you’ve noticed a few changes. The attire at the Bible Institute has gone from the long-ago class coat-and-tie policy to more T-shirts and jeans in free time.The Word of Life Inn is now the Inn & Family Lodge, and rather than a population of primarily young students and older instructors and elders, Word of Life hosts more and more alumni of all generations.

It’s an exciting time to be part of the Word of Life family, as Alumnus of the Year Dennis D’Augostine saw firsthand during Homecoming weekend this spring. His visit was his first chance to return in 14 years, and he welcomed the changes. Dennis says he feels his generation of alumni, from 1995 to 2005, has been disconnected from Word of Life since leaving the Bible Institute, and he’s encouraged to see the efforts to reengage former students.

“When I left, I felt like Word of Life was just for 18- and 19-year-olds, and if I wasn’t lucky enough to stay and work on staff, I wouldn’t have a ministry connection unless I was bringing kids to camp,” he says.

Dennis himself came to know the Lord as a camper at the Island, and after visiting this past Memorial Day weekend, he says he realized even more the immense impact Word of Life has had in his life — from that first meeting with Christ at camp to his life-changing Bible Institute teachers and relationships with fellow alumni still in his life and work today.

“Word of Life has so much light — such excitement and passion,” Dennis says.

He says the depth of faith and fire for evangelism he developed at the Bible Institute, along with his own entrepreneurial spirit, are what fuel his current ministry as a church planter. After leaving Word of Life, Dennis attended Baptist Bible College and later Baptist Bible Seminary. Through the seminary’s Project Jerusalem initiative, he eventually planted Steamtown Church in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He now pastors the church with three of his close friends and fellow Bible Institute alumni Peter Fox, John Wilson, and Matt Miller.

Dennis says his desire to plant churches comes from his “heart for tethering evangelism and faith to a visible thing — to making disciples.” He’s planted several churches and seen much progress in Scranton. Dennis baptized 12 new believers on Good Friday, his church recently purchased a new cathedral, and he’s started a Spanish-speaking ministry through Steamtown Iglesia.

This exciting growth is a testament of Dennis’s faithfulness to his calling — creating a flourishing ministry in Scranton was no easy task. In fact, Dennis says jokingly that anyone looking to plant a church in the Northeast “better have a handwritten note from God.” Steamtown Church ministers to Scranton’s inner city, where addictions, abuse, and alcoholism are rampant. It was difficult for Dennis to convince suburban families to join his congregation, and the diversity of the area made it hard to build a cohesive church community early on. But he, Peter, John, and Matt kept the faith, and their church is thriving. Dennis says the urgent message of grace Steamtown Church shares is worth the hard fight.

“In the inner city, today really is a day of salvation, because there might not be a tomorrow,” he explains.

As Steamtown’s ministry and network continue to grow, Dennis hopes to develop a church planting movement — and with Word of Life’s focus on evangelism, he anticipates Word of Life’s role in church planting will expand with new generations of faith leaders and with Don Lough, Jr. at the helm.

“Homecoming weekend reignited my heart for Word of Life,” Dennis says. “There’s a new vision focused on growing churches, and it will resonate with those of us [alumni] now leading ministries of our own.”

Victory Journal Issue 10: Online.

You can find all the articles from the latest Victory Journal on this blog, but if you'd like to see a PDF version of the actual magazine, click here.

Also, if you are not receiving the print copy, please send us your updated contact info at alumni@wol.org, and we'll get you on our mailing list.

Tours: Send us your memories.

Were you ever a part of Word of Life Tours? We’d love to hear from you.

If you participated in a Bible Institute production, whether on the road or at the Florida campus, please consider sending some memories or photos along.

We’re looking for the following:
(1) Photos – Anything showing the experience, from the performances to backstage to going on the road
(2) Memories – What encouraged you? Who do you remember? Any funny stories?
(3) Encouragement for other alumni – Pass along whatever you’d like to share.

It doesn’t have to be long! We’d just love to hear from you and share your thoughts with other alumni. Even if it’s just a sentence or a grainy 3x5 photo, let us know how Tours touched you.

Thank you for your contribution!

Contact Mike Bush at mikebush@wol.org or send your photos or memories to alumni@wol.org.  

Testimony Corner: Dean Bruckner, Class of 1981

My year at Word of Life Bible Institute was one of the best three years of my life.

As a 17-year-old believer in Christ, I sensed a calling to the secular world as an engineer, military officer, or both. I asked God for wisdom. Our family friends David and Billy Giles (Class of 1978 and 1979, respectively) strongly recommended my brother Lee and I attend the Bible Institute. So we did, along with their sister, Victoria.

The three of us arrived in mid-September 1980 to picture-perfect chalets, hard benches, and the daily Quiet Time diary — the Word of Life experience. Thirty guys push-starting our 18-wheeler in Canada on Collegians winter tour, a missions conference that a hundred of us missed with the flu in the days before vaccinations, watching Dean of Men Ray Namie doing doughnuts in his van — with his family inside — on the frozen lake, and a two-week trip to Israel, Jordan, and Egypt all are indelibly stamped in my memory. But even more than those memories were the lifelong imprints made by the Word of God on the deepest part of who I am.

Life. The Word. That’s what Word of Life is all about. From where I stand, a more coherent, practical, comprehensive one-year presentation of the Bible, integrated into preparation for life, does not exist. For me, it came at exactly the right time, and it equipped me for all that was to come.

Since then, I’ve sailed the coasts of North America, from Nova Scotia to the Panama Canal, to Alaska’s farthest Aleutian Islands, and to the Arctic Circle. I’ve been to 20 foreign countries and studied five languages. I’ve lived a year abroad, earned a Ph.D in electrical engineering, and became a licensed professional engineer. I was the lead system integrator for flight tests of the GPS and inertial navigation systems of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. I got married and have three school-age children, served in eight churches and military chapels, and now teach industrial and systems engineering at Ohio University.

What does all this amount to? Absolutely nothing, in light of eternity, except what was done for Christ and His kingdom. That is the debt I owe to Word of Life. In that year, my spiritual navigation instruments and library of life charts were fitted for the long haul. If God’s hand has held my life on course during everything that’s followed, if He’s used it to touch others, if He and His Word are better known and loved in my wake, it will be due in great measure to what I received in the spiritual “shipyard” on the shores of Schroon Lake.

What amazes me is that it was such fun, too. It truly was one of the three most joyful years of my life, along with my honeymoon year of marriage and my year as a young commanding officer of the U.S. Coast Guard radio station near Istanbul, Turkey.

The Turks have a saying: “A tree can be shaped when it’s young.” That was Word of Life to me.

Victory Journal Issue 9: Online.

You can find all the articles from the latest Victory Journal on this blog, but if you'd like to see a PDF version of the actual magazine, click here.

Also, if you are not receiving the print copy, please send us your updated contact info at alumni@wol.org, and we'll get you on our mailing list.

Alumni News: 2010s.

We've got more updates from our alumni family. See what your former classmates are up to here and in upcoming issues of the Victory Journal. Let us know what you're doing at alumni@wol.org.

Kyle Bush ('09, '10) works as a land surveyor and enjoys basketball. He and his wife, Stefanie (Paun, ’09, ’10), have one son, Emory. They attend Watermark Church in Tampa, Florida.

Patricia Williams (’09, ’10) is a stay-at-home mom with her daughter, Karis. She attends Everglades Baptist Church in Okeechobee, Florida.

Stephanie Borgia (’09, ’10) is studying to be a nurse with the hopes of serving on the mission field.  She attends Calvary Fellowship Church in Port Saint Lucie, Florida.

Jonathan Duckett (’09, ’10) is an intern at Crossroots City Church in Jacksonville, Florida, and involved in Media for Missions, a book business.

Derek Roberts ('10) is working at Lisbon Community Family Credit Union and Camp Good News in Livermore Falls while finishing his last year of college and serving as a teen youth leader at Lisbon Falls Baptist Church in Maine.

Mishaela Parker (’10, Hungary) is working on getting her teaching credential and on becoming an overseas missionary teacher.

Samuelle Champion (’10) is involved in student ministry and attends First Baptist Church of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida.

Dawn Brooks (’10) is a nurse at Cartersville Medical Center in Cartersville, Georgia. She attends North Point Baptist Church and has three children: Geovana, David, and Julissa.

Rebekah Larsen ('10, '11) is working full-time while studying full-time online with Grace Bible College. She also works with the youth and music teams at her church, First Baptist Church of Bath in Maine.

Leonard Van Essendelft, Jr. (’10, ’11) is the youth pastor at Middle Island Baptist Church in Selden, New York, and works for Terminix. He is planning on attending seminary school.

Bethany Rose (’10, ’11) is studying social work at Roberts Wesleyan College in Rochester, New York. She attends Northridge Church in Rochester, New York.

Caleb Seibert (’10, ’11) works at Home Depot, is working on his bachelor’s degree online with Liberty University, and helps with the youth group at First Baptist Church of Philipsburg in Philipsburg, Pennsylvania. He enjoys hiking, wood burning, and fellowshipping with friends.

Kristy Goodman (’10, ’11) is studying American sign language. She attends Temple Baptist Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Josiah Brondyke (’10, ’11) is serving the Lord in the Midwest. He attends Fish Lake Bible Church in Sherman, Michigan.

Brittany Tanedo (’10, ’12) is a full-time nanny and a youth leader at Russell Baptist Church in Green Cove Springs, Florida.

Graham Collins ('11) is on the ministry staff of Brainerd Baptist Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Tricia Figueroa (’11) just received her medical assistant-phlebotomist certification and is looking for work. She attends Christian Fellowship Church in Scotland, Connecticut.

Andrew Kirk (’11, Jeju) is studying Biblical counseling at The Masters College in Santa Clarita, California.

Ethan and Brittany Wofford (’11) are praying about long-term overseas missions. Ethan is self-employed and involved at Rockbridge Community Church.

Lindsay Harbourne (’11) is studying nursing. She attends Westside Baptist Church in Hamilton, Ontario.

Bethany Davoll (’11) is graduating in May 2014 from Trinity Baptist College in Jacksonville, Florida. She attends Trinity Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida, and La Conexión a la Esperanzo Una Iglesia Bautista in Ecuador.

Cameron Hoagland (’11) is living in Maryland and studying engineering with the goal of serving as a missionary. He attends Fredericktowne Baptist Church in Walkersville, Maryland.

Rebecca Chambers (’11, ’12) is interested in counseling and missions. She attends Trinity Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida.

Benjamin Young (’11, ’12) is a student at Trinity Baptist College in Jacksonville, Florida. He attends Crossroads Church in Middleburg, Florida.

Dale (’11, ’12) and Jennifer (Spiller) (’12) Williams were married on June 8, 2013. Dale works in residential construction, and Jennifer is a secretary at their local church, New Beginnings Baptist Church in Kennedy, New York.

Devin ('12) and Mollie (Burke) ('10) Graf were married October 20, 2014. Devin works for JetBlue and PrimeFlight Aviation Services at Greater Rochester International Airport. They both are coordinators at Connect, a teen outreach ministry at Open Door Baptist Church in Churchville, New York.

Abigail Barker (’12) is studying nursing. She met her fiancé at the Bible Institute. She attends Grace Brethren Church in Melbourne, Florida.

Alyssa Weigand (’12) is studying secondary history and English at Trinity Baptist College in Jacksonville, Florida. She attends Trinity Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida.

Alex Luedtke (’12) is working and studying at Trinity Bible College in Jacksonville, Florida. He is a youth leader at Crossroads Baptist Church in Middleburg, Florida.

Krista Schmidt (’12) is studying secondary education at Trinity Baptist College in Jacksonville, Florida. She attends Trinity Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida.

Heather Woolley (’12) is studying psychology and counseling. She attends First Baptist Church in Hobe Sound, Florida.

Lindsay Mixon (’12) is studying nursing and attends Lighthouse Baptist Church in Callahan, Florida.

Sarah Wagner (’12) is studying graphic design and working at Antro.

Shane Felices (’12) is working as a barista at Starbucks and serves on the praise team at East Pointe Church in Jacksonville, Florida.

Belen Aleman (’12 Argentina) is studying at The Masters College in Santa Clarita, California, and preparing to serve the Lord full-time on the mission field.

Rachel Anderson ('12) is studying online while working.

Kimberly Smith (’12) is a youth leader, nanny, and hostess at Sonny’s. She enjoys hiking and camping. She attends First Baptist Church of New Port Richey in Florida.

Kathryn Wright (’12, ’13) helps out with Awana and the nursery at New Testament Baptist Church in Largo, Florida.

Hsin Hui Huang (Serena) (’12, ’13) is studying at Trinity Baptist College in Jacksonville, Florida. She attends Crossroads Baptist Church in Middleburg, Florida.

Jessica Klaus (’12, ’13) is a student at Hope College in Holland, Michigan, and is involved in on-campus ministry.

Paul Kittelstad (’12, ’13) is working in construction and pursuing a career in acting. He attends Heritage Baptist Church in Lakeland, Florida.

Aleta Dodge ('12, '13) is working as a missionary intern for Word of Life.

Jennifer Perry (’12, ’13) is working full-time. She attends Bethany Assembly of God in Agawam, Massachusetts.

Jeremiah Chapman (’13) and his wife, Leah, have three children: Arriah, Noah, and Hannah. They attend Woodstock Church in Jasper, Georgia. Jeremiah is studying for a pastorate position and is a student minister and a house parent at a group home.

Katherine Joseph (’13) is working and helps with child care at the Word of Life Olympians program at Heritage Baptist Church in Kentwood, Michigan.

Michael Carrel (’13) is working and helping with youth group at Heritage Baptist Church in Kentwood, Michigan.

Miranda Marie Dodge ('13) works at Tim Hortons, Clean Bee Laundry, and baby sits. At her church, West Rockport Baptist Church in Maine, she is involved in the youth group, evangelism, and Word of Life Superbowls. She enjoys ice skating, singing, writing, and Bible studies.

Alumni News: 1970s
Alumni News: 1980s
Alumni News: 1990s
Alumni News: 2000s

Alumni News: 2000s.

We've got more updates from our alumni family. See what your former classmates are up to here and in upcoming issues of the Victory Journal. Let us know what you're doing at alumni@wol.org.

Brad Smith (’99, ’00) is a student pastor at First Baptist Church of New Port Richey in Florida. He and his wife, Shallon, have two children: Emma (10) and Keirna (7).

Nathan Miles (’99, ’00) is a pastor at Potter Hollow Union Church in New York. He and his wife, Kristy, have four children: Lillian (8), Nathan (5), Hedia (2), and Asher (1).

Christopher Smith (’99, ’00) spent about 11 years in ministry, 5½ of them with Word of Life Local Church Ministries. He has four children: Jaxon (11), Conor (9), Lincoln (6), and Gracie (5).

Amanda (Steele) Leckvold (’00) teaches first grade. She and her husband, Stephen, have a newborn son, Isaiah.

Deborah Berruti ('00) is an occupational therapist working in a village-based hospital on the south side of the Sahara Desert with SIM, a missions organization, making a huge impact in the lives of the patients she treats.

Tanna (Kiahd) Bettle (’00, ’01) works as a customer service representative at a health insurance company. She is married to Brandon.

Karine (Radermaker) Cruse (’01) (Quebec) worked at a local rescue mission and is very involved in music ministry with the children’s choir at Westfield Evangelical Free Church in Westfield, Massachusetts. She owns a piano studio and teaches full-time. Her husband, John, is a pastor.

William Anthony ('01) and his wife, Ceressa, have three children: Zoe (7), Drew (4), and Lola (2). They attend Riverstone Community Church in Jacksonville, Florida.

Isaac and Bethany (Gray) Brohinsky (’01, ’02) have two children: Elijah (6) and Benjamin (3). Isaac is a partner at a certified public accountant firm and a deacon. Bethany is a stay-at-home mom, a church secretary and treasurer, a photographer, and a reseller on eBay. They attend Westside Chapel in Jacksonville, Florida.

Austin and Nicole (Davis) Green (’01, ’02) attend First Baptist Church in Lakeland, Florida. Austin is a youth and fundraising consultant for Christian schools. Nicole owns a freelance writing business and enjoys filming, theatre, and public speaking. They have three children: Alea, Caeden, and Sophia.

Debbie Frisbey (’01, ’02) is the founder and director of The Youth Center of White Cloud in White Cloud, Michigan, and a substitute teacher. She attends Aetna Calvary Church in White Cloud, Michigan.

John Melcon (’01, 02) is the director of enrollment at The Master’s College in Santa Clarita, California. He and his wife, Kelly, have two children: Mark (3) and Lyola (1).

Kelly (’01, ’03) and Kimberly (Nolan) (’10) Smith have been accepted as Word of Life missionaries to Japan and are raising support and building their prayer team. Kelly is working at Verizon Wireless and Kimberly is a stay-at-home mom to Lucas (1). They attend Calvary Bible Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Jeff Nuckols (’02) is a pastor at Landmark Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida. He and his wife, Therese, have four children: Gabriel (8), Anna (6), Josiah (3), and Elijah (1).

Ken and Amanda (Williams) Marl (’02) have a son, Harper, who is almost 3 years old. Ken works at Bobs Red Mill in Oregon, and Amanda works for Life and Style Photography.

Melissa Maynard (’02) works in emergency medical services and attends Crossroads Community Church in Amsterdam, New York.

Kurt King (’02, ’03) does landscape maintenance, loves golf, and is involved in the young married ministry at Hibernia Baptist Church in Flemming Island, Florida. He and his wife, Karina, have four children: Jaden (7), Seth (6), Lydia (2), and Erik (2).

Faith (Wilkins) Torsey (’02, ’03) is working at Walmart and interested in photography. She attends Ashland Baptist Church in Ashland, New Hampshire.

Seth Heydinger (’02, ’03) is a missionary with Word of Life in Poland.

Rebecca Thompson (’02, ’04) is a neonatal intensive care registered nurse.

Jonathan Steele (’03) and his wife, Emily, attend First Baptist Church of Rhinebeck in Rhinebeck, New York.

Shirley (Davis) O’Neill (’03) is a middle school teacher and works with high schoolers at North River Community Church in Pembroke, Massachusetts. She is married to Patrick.

Cindi (Warken) Schubert ('03) is a stay-at-home mom and enjoys doing crafts. She and her husband, Kurt, have twins: Mae and Luke (2).

Jacklyn (Feltz) (’03) and Clint Lain attend McKinney Memorial Bible Church in Fort Worth, Texas, and have three children: Tori (11), Dylan (8), and Andrew (newborn).

Michael Seal (’03, ’04) is working full-time and is a seminary student at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He and his wife, Katie, have three children: Jonathan (5), Haddon (4), and Annabelle (1). They attend Meadow Springs Community Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Rebekah (Becky) Moman (’03, ’05) is living, working, and playing in Fairbanks, Alaska, and attends Friends Community Church in Fairbanks, Alaska. She is engaged to be married to Corey Sobah in spring 2014.

Alec and Jennifer (Headlee) Regalado (’04) have a daughter, Lydia (3). Alec works in construction and contracting. Jennifer is a supervisor at Starbucks and mentors other moms.

David McGinley (’04) serves as a minister of discipleship at Old Plank Road Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida.

Joshua and Julie (Stromberg) Ely (’04, ’05) attend First Baptist Church of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida. Joshua is a student director, and Julie is a stay-at-home mom to Logan (4), Muriah (3), and Ava (2).

Leonna Elam ('04, '05) is the programs manager at Ironworks Taekwondo Academy Inc. in Dunmore, Pennsylvania.

Miriam Ritchie (’04, ’05) is a freelance graphic designer, is involved at Calvary Bible Church in Hanover, Pennsylvania, and is marrying Wayne Miller on July 12, 2014.

Andrea (Jennings) Nazarie (’05) and her husband, Claudiu, are Word of Life area missionaries in northwest Georgia. They have three children: Elliot (5), Micah (4), and Caleb (1). They attend First Baptist Church in Woodstock, Georgia.

Jaclyn (Faisst) Quintero (’05, ’06) and her husband, Ramon, serve at Northbridge Church in Kalamazoo Township, Michigan with Hispanics, and teenagers. They have two children: Isabella (2) and Natalie (4).

Jennifer Gray (’05, ’06) is a part-time teller. She recently joined Quabbin Valley Pro Musica, a mixed-voice choral ensemble in Western Massachusetts. She attends Mission Covenant Church in Orange, Massachusetts.

Charles Love (’06) is studying teaching at Trinity Baptist College in Jacksonville, Florida, and is working at Panera Bread. He attends Old Plank Road Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida.

Christopher Harris (’06) works as a pipefitter and coaches baseball, using it to spread Jesus. He and his wife, Shanna, have two children: Gage (6) and Bentlee (3). They attend First Baptist Church of Jacksonville in Jacksonville, Florida.

Lindsey Ramirez (’06) is a case manager for a court and a leader for the 12th-grade small group at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Jasper, Georgia.

Krista (Samson) Seybolt (’06) is a student ministry secretary. She and her husband, Tim, have one daughter, Lily (2). They attend First Baptist Church in New Port Richey, Florida.

Rebecca Milliron (’06, ’07) is a teacher at Temple Christian School and attends Temple Baptist Church in Titusville, Florida.

Hillary Ellis (’06, ’08) runs the sound system for her church and helps with a youth program at another church.

Nash Purcell (’07, ’08) is working in construction with his dad. He attends Heritage Baptist Church in Lakeland, Florida.

Stephen Gerhart (’07, ’08) is an associate pastor at First Baptist Church of Hudson in Florida. He and his wife, Sandra, have four children: James, Maegan, Emily, and Aaron.

James Thomas (’08) is an artist.

Kellie (Gelo) Paczok (’08) is a pharmacy technician. She and her husband, Joshua, attend First Baptist Church in Weymouth, Massachusetts.

Loren Smith (’08) is a registered nurse at Tampa General Hospital and is a youth group leader at First Baptist Church of New Port Richey in Florida.

Dwayne Johnson (’08) is working on a degree in counseling. He is a youth leader at Faith Baptist Church in New Port Richey, Florida. He and his wife, Sheila, have four children: Anne, Mason, Axel, and Dylan.

Ryan Arnold (’08) is the music coordinator at the Bible Institute’s New York campus.

James Presley (’08, ’09) is a full-time teacher and chef at a Christian school in Okeechobee, Florida. He attends Cornerstone Baptist Church in Okeechobee, Florida.

Justin Herron (’08, ’09) is a youth pastor. He’s pursuing a masters in divinity at Reformed Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Megan (Livingston), attend Crosswalk Community Church in Titusville, Florida.

Michael (’08, ’09) and Jennifer (King) (’09) Torres are involved in the young married ministry at Hibernia Baptist Church in Flemming Island, Florida, and are interested in returning to full-time ministry. They have two children: Michael and Lucas.

Eric Feenaughty (’09) works in information technology at Tampa General Hospital. He and his wife, Jessica (Strout) (’08, ’09), attend South Tampa Fellowship.

Kevin Case (’09) is working with teenagers.

Joy Edwards (’09) attends Spring Hill Baptist Church in Spring Hill, Florida, and helps in the nursery.

Bryanne Elliot ('09) works for Wells Fargo in Colonie, New York, and attends Northway Church in Clifton Park, New York.

Katherine (Ewing) Jackson ('09) works for a safety and industrial supply company.

Marques Pauley (’09) works at Chick-fil-A and is interning as a youth pastor at First Baptist Church of New Port Richey in Florida. He graduated from Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, and is now looking for a job as a pastor.

Andrew Anderson (’09) is a worship leader at Heritage Baptist Church in Tampa, Florida.

Kyle Bush ('09, '10) works as a land surveyor and enjoys basketball. He and his wife, Stefanie (Paun, ’09, ’10), have one son, Emory. They attend Watermark Church in Tampa, Florida.

Patricia Williams (’09, ’10) is a stay-at-home mom with her daughter, Karis. She attends Everglades Baptist Church in Okeechobee, Florida.

Stephanie Borgia (’09, ’10) is studying to be a nurse with the hopes of serving on the mission field.  She attends Calvary Fellowship Church in Port Saint Lucie, Florida.

Jonathan Duckett (’09, ’10) is an intern at Crossroots City Church in Jacksonville, Florida, and involved in Media for Missions, a book business.

Alumni News: 1970s
Alumni News: 1980s
Alumni News: 1990s
Alumni News: 2010s

Alumni News: 1990s.

We've got more updates from our alumni family. See what your former classmates are up to here and in upcoming issues of the Victory Journal. Let us know what you're doing at alumni@wol.org.

Jonathan Bubar ('89, '90) works in medical device sales. He and his wife, Cheryl, work with African refugees and have three children: Daniel (16), Drew (12), and Eloise (4). They attend First Baptist Church of Waldoboro in Waldoboro, Maine.

Ann (Towle) Jones ('89, '90) works for the United States Postal Service, is very involved in her church, and participates in missions trips to third-world countries. She is married to Michael and attends Bradford Baptist Church in Bradford, Maine.

Brent Parschauer (’90) enjoys reading, writing, and speaking. He and his wife, Shelly, have three children: Titus (16), Silas (13), and Lukas (8). They attend First Baptist Church of New Smyrna in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

Shawn Morrow (’90, ’91) is a manager at a local supermarket. He and his wife, Sara, have six children: Ashton, Breanna, Kristen, Jordan, Joshua, and Sydney. They attend Crossroads Evangelical Free Church in Plymouth, Indiana.

Gordon Loop (’90, ’91) is a pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in Dedham, Massachusetts. He and his wife, Beth-Eden, have three children: Micayla, Justin, and Wesley.

Dawn (Bach) Hartill ('91) is an information technology auditor for TD Bank. She and her husband, Daniel, have three children: Russell (17), Ryan (14), and Reagan (12). They attend East Auburn Baptist Church in Auburn, Maine.

Laurie (Shoemaker) Tilson (’91) and her husband, Bill, attend Southside Fellowship Abiding in Christ Church in West Henrietta, New York. Laurie homeschools their three children: Paul (14), Leah (12), and Hannah (10).

Wade and Kimberly (Morris) Peterson (’91) have two children: Rachel (19) and Abigail (10). Wade sings on the worship team at Community Bible Church in Cooperstown, New York.

James Smith (’91, ’92) is a bus driver for Hertz. He and his wife, Lynn, attend Praise Christian Fellowship in Pleasant Valley, Connecticut.

Stephen Janho (’92) works in real estate and is involved in his local church. He and his wife, Deborah, have five children: Abigail (11), Isabella (11), Boaz (9), Jacob (8), and Sophia (5).

Chris Chapman ('93) works at the Duke Energy Catawba Nuclear Plant, is a media director at Sisk Memorial Baptist Church, and owns an audio/video business called coMEDIAn Productions. He and his wife, Brandi, have two children: Devin (11) and Ayla (7).

Jonathan Anna ('93) is a police officer for the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office in Syracuse, New York. He is a full-time single dad to Ethan (5). He attends Grace Evangelical Covenant Church in Clay, New York.

Darrell Black ('94) is a house parent at The Joy House, a ministry dedicated to restoring teenagers and families through Christ, in Jasper, Georgia, along with his wife, Elizabeth. They have two children: Matthew (9) and Lauren (7). They attend Foothills Community Church in Marble Hills, Georgia.

Paul Harbourne (’94) is a pastor at Fellowship Baptist Church in Collingwood, Ontario, and teaches at the Bible Institute in Owen Sound. He and his wife, Kim, have three children: Tyler, Lindsay, and Brendan.

Dan Saxton (’94, ’95) just graduated from Westminster Seminary California in Escondido, California, with a masters in historical theology. He is helping with a church plant and working at a local publishing company.

Sarah Bubar (’94, ’95) is the dean of women at Word of Life Bible Institute in Hudson, Florida, and attends Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz, Florida.

Jonathan Stansel ('94, '96) works in customer service for a web company. He is involved in children's and family ministry, the orchestra, and is a deacon at Open Door Baptist Church in Churchville, New York. He and his wife, Beth (Hannah, ’00), have four children with a fifth on the way in the summer of 2014: Madison (7), Logan (5), Payten (4), and Jaxin (3).

Valerie (Chase) Burton (’95) met her husband, Luke, at Liberty University. She currently homeschools seven of their 10 children.

Neil B. Nicholson (’96) is an attorney in Concord, New Hampshire, and is watching his children, ages 10 and 5, grow up too fast. Neil and his family are active members at Manchester Christian Church.

Tanya (Stewart) Monts (’96) teaches third and fourth grade and is involved at Madeira Baptist Church in Middleburg, Florida. She and her husband, Michael, have three children: Chandler (13), Dawson (8) and Lauren (5).

Melissa (Presciutti) Patrick ('96) and her husband, Jason, attend First Bible Baptist Church in Rochester, New York. She homeschools their three children: Andrew (11), Tyler (7), and Leanna (5).

Daniel Fauth (’96, 97) and his wife, Cheryl, have four children: Lydia (8), Jacob (4), Abigail (2), and James (infant). They attend Bible Baptist Church of Shiremanstown in Shiremanstown, Pennsylvania.

Kari Ferguson (’97) is an educational instructional coach. She and her husband, Richard, have two children: Lydia (8) and Noah (6).

Ralph Wilson, Jr. (‘97, ’98) is a pastor at Liberty Baptist Church in St. Petersburg, Florida. He and his wife, Sally, have two children: Emmalee (8) and Landon (5).

Tim ('97, '98) and Bethany (Wittmer) ('98, '99) Raymond have four children: Benjamin, Noah, Ethan, and Leah. Bethany is a full-time wife, mom, and home educator. She is very involved at Trinity Baptist Church in Muncie, Indiana, where Tim has been the senior pastor since 2006. Tim is also an editor and occasional blogger for the Christian magazine Credo (credomag.com).

Casey Jebens (’98) is a head driver and trainer for Sherwood School District Transportation. He enjoys music and radio. He is married to Rachel.

Rachael (Zaicek) Macht (’98) is a teacher at EASTCONN, an organization that works with parents, communities, and schools to ensure all children are prepared for school success. She and her husband, Jeremiah, have one daughter, Grace, and attend Baptist Fellowship of Columbia in Columbia, Connecticut.

Melissa (Alan) Smith (’98) is a stay-at-home mom to Aubrey (3) and teaches Sunday School. She is married to Shawn.

C.W. Andy Anderson (’98) and his wife, Nancy, are area missionaries with Word of Life in Tampa, Florida. They attend South Tampa Fellowship in Tampa, Florida.

Brian and Valerie (Sharratt) Earl (’98) have three children: Timothy (11), Chloe (10), and Jeremiah (5). Brian enjoys basketball and football. He works in information technology support and is the worship leader at Christ Community Church in Tampa, Florida. Valerie is involved in children’s ministry at the church.

Jackie (Williams) Carver (’98) works at a bank and is involved in children’s ministry at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Jasper, Georgia. She and her husband, Mickey, have three children: Austin (18), Bethany (12), and Caroline (11).

Peter O. Ogilvie (’98) is a bereavement chaplain. He and his wife have five children: Peter G., Johan, Andrew, Hannah, and Mark. They attend Hope Community Church in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania.

James and Stacy (Laird) Mindrup (’99) attend Faith Baptist Church in New Port Richey, Florida, and have three children: Charles (10), Jack (7), and Mekayla (6). James works in information technology.

Amanda (Fisher) Langworthy (’99) is a stay-at-home mom and a director with Thirty-One Gifts. Aaron (’99) plans to open a nonprofit deli and is the pastor of a house church.

Brad Smith (’99, ’00) is a student pastor at First Baptist Church of New Port Richey in Florida. He and his wife, Shallon, have two children: Emma (10) and Keirna (7).

Nathan Miles (’99, ’00) is a pastor at Potter Hollow Union Church in New York. He and his wife, Kristy, have four children: Lillian (8), Nathan (5), Hedia (2), and Asher (1).

Christopher Smith (’99, ’00) spent about 11 years in ministry, 5½ of them with Word of Life Local Church Ministries. He has four children: Jaxon (11), Conor (9), Lincoln (6), and Gracie (5).

Alumni News: 1970s
Alumni News: 1980s
Alumni News: 2000s
Alumni News: 2010s

Alumni News: 1980s.

We've got more updates from our alumni family. See what your former classmates are up to here and in upcoming issues of the Victory Journal. Let us know what you're doing at alumni@wol.org.

Angela (Visserman) Cernilli (’80) works as a registered nurse in a doctor’s office. Her husband, Gene, is an engineer. They are involved in ministry at Colonial Baptist Church in Cary, North Carolina. They have three children: Elise Martin, Michael, and Kristen.

John Carrel (’80) designs houses and has ministered for 28 years with Word of Life Olympians. He attends Heritage Baptist Church in Kentwood, Michigan. He has four children: Shaina (Shukee), Garren, Michael, and Brent.

Jane (Fawley) Slusher (’80) and her husband, David, have two children: Nathan and Adam. They attend Grace Community Church in Hudsonville, Michigan.

Penny (Relyea) Schlueter (’80) is a dental claims specialist for Aetna. She ministers at Baptist Church of Northville in Northville, New York, in music and in the nursery. She and her husband, Bob (Chip), have two children: Erin and Matthew.

Deborah (Anderson) Tingley (’80) works as a medical claims examiner, serves with the Gideons, and is on the finance committee at Living Stone Community Church in Standish, Maine. She and her husband, Lee, have two children: Erika (Smith) and Michael.

David Bailey (’81) is a business development manager for an international engineering and steel detailing company. He enjoys racing and bicycling. He and his wife, Melissa (Warner) (’81), have two children: Jonathan and Arianna.

John Maynard ('81) and his wife, Linda, are in their 34th year of ministry with Word of Life Local Church Ministries in Amsterdam, New York. They have three children: Aaron, Shaun, and Melissa. They attend Emmanuel Baptist Church in Gloversville, New York.

David and Amy (Niccum) Sciacca (’81) have a son, Charles. David is a truck driver, and Amy is involved in missions, helping others use the skills and abilities God has given them.

Pam (Smith) Kryger (’81) is a dental hygienist, a cancer patient counselor, and a cook for all events that happen at Berean Baptist Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She and her husband, John, have five children: Mandy, Like, Erika, Jared, and Emily.

James McMahon (’83) is an Army pilot who travels to “interesting” places. He and his wife, Tammy (’86), attend Garden Chapel in Middletown, Pennsylvania, and have three children: Joshua, Kaylee, and Kelsey.

Ed Henderson (’84) is involved in music and children’s ministry at Huber Heights First Baptist Church in Dayton, Ohio. He and his wife, Lori, have three children: Alyssa, Kelsie, and Molly.
 
Sherrie (Dickinson) Farnsworth (’84) homeschools two of her children, leads a ladies Bible study, and is a Bible quizzing coordinator. She and her husband, James, have four children: Donnie, Kelsey, Caleb, and Savannah. They attend Calvary Baptist Church in Covington, Kentucky.

Tara (Goheens) Bubar ('84) works as a school lunch aide. She and her husband, David (’84), have two children: Brittney (17) and Ashley (15).

Barbara Thurlow (’84) attends Calvary Chapel of Canterbury in Scotland, Connecticut, and has two children: Danielle and Cynthia.

Cheryle Wight (’84) is a single mom working at a school for children with autism. She attends Christian Fellowship Church in Scotland, Connecticut, and has three children: Mishel, Amanda, and Matthew.

James Hardy ('85) is an airline mechanic at LaGuardia Airport in New York and is studying online with Liberty University. He attends Latham Bible Baptist Church in Latham, New York.

Bethany (Cline) Gordon (’85, ’86) and her husband, Dean, have five children: Laura, Hollie, Emily, Jillian, and Shannon. They attend Christian Fellowship Church in Scotland, Connecticut.

Bruce Wagner (‘86) teaches English at Nautilus Middle School in Miami Beach, Florida, and is an adjunct professor at South Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary in Deerfield Beach, Florida. He and his wife, Margaret, have five children: Sherry (Toonder), Rebekah (Hoskins), Leah, Elizabeth (Wright), and Sarah. They attend First Baptist Church of Westwood Lake.

John Jacobs (’86) is a civil engineer. He and his wife, Karen, attend Orchard Avenue Baptist Church in Vacaville, California. They have two children: Andrew and Amanda.

Karen (Bremmer) Ouellette (’86) is a registered nurse. She and her husband, Mel, have two children (both of whom have graduated from the Bible Institute): Monique and Michael. They attend Heritage Baptist Church in Kentwood, Michigan.

Peter and Debbie (Witherbee) Wallace (’86) are involved at Fredericktowne Baptist Church in Walkersville, Maryland, where Debbie is a piano teacher, youth leader, and director of music. Peter is involved in evangelism and discipleship.

Suzanna (Flowers) Adams (’86) and her husband, Nelson, have four children. They attend Clermont Baptists Church in Clermont, Florida.

Vonda (Kenyon) Cranfield (’86, ’87) works with special needs children and volunteers at a pregnancy care center. She and her husband, David, have two children: Joel and Courtney. They attend Grace Fellowship Church in Latham, New York.

Lee (’87) and Diane (Moore) (’86) Hamblen have six children: Peter, Sarah, Rebecca, Thomas, Anna, and Abigail. Lee is a children’s pastor at Island Christian Church in Northport, Long Island, New York.

Ashley (Gardner) Allen (’87) and her husband, Garth, a pastor at Loudonville Community Church in Loudonville, New York, have three children: Amanda (19), Cassidy (18), and Garth, Jr. (15).

Ken Mortensen ('87) and his wife, Vanessa, have three children: Ashely, Evan, and Brittany. They attend Life Church Jensen Beach in Jensen Beach, Florida.

Beth (Schermer) Ferguson (’87) works in graphic design and serves on the worship team at CrossWay Community Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is married to Kevin.

Kim Overholt (’87, ’88) is a public school teacher and works at Word of Life Ranch in the summer. She attends Heritage Baptist Church in Lakeland, Florida.

Shawn and Travis (Ray) DeGraff ('88) are involved at their church, East Auburn Baptist Church in Auburn, Maine. They have three children: Cody, Peyton, and Megan.

RoJean (Paddock) Hayden (’88) is a custodian at First Baptist Church in Pavilion, New York. She and her husband, Kendall, have three children: Kyle, Kirk, and Kayli. RoJean homeschools two of them.

Dave and Denise (Rhoads) Richard (’88, ’89) attend First Baptist Church of Winter Garden in Winter Garden, Florida, and have three children: Brittany, Dan, and Samantha. Dave is a business owner and director of operations for Shiloh Adventure Camp. Denise is a full-time mom and has worked with teens for 20-plus years.

Gerry Horton (’89) is a children’s pastor at First Baptist Church in Keystone Heights, Florida. He and his wife, Kim, have three children: Andrew (18), Ethan (16), and Emily (13).

Robin (Navaretta) Macary (’89) and her husband, Peter, have three children: Hannah (13), Josiah (10), and Jordan (7).

Robert Stoudt ('89) works for a government contractor inspecting military trucks and helps with the youth group at Fellowship Baptist Church in Watertown, New York. He and his wife, Tammy, have six children: Micah (20), Sharayah (19), Dominic (18), Caleb (16), Noah (14), and Savannah (12).

Jonathan Bubar ('89, '90) works in medical device sales. He and his wife, Cheryl, work with African refugees and have three children: Daniel (16), Drew (12), and Eloise (4). They attend First Baptist Church of Waldoboro in Waldoboro, Maine.

Ann (Towle) Jones ('89, '90) works for the United States Postal Service, is very involved in her church, and participates in missions trips to third-world countries. She is married to Michael and attends Bradford Baptist Church in Bradford, Maine.

Alumni News: 1970s
Alumni News: 1990s
Alumni News: 2000s
Alumni News: 2010s

Alumni News: 1970s.

We've got more updates from our alumni family. See what your former classmates are up to here and in upcoming issues of the Victory Journal. Let us know what you're doing at alumni@wol.org.

Deborah (Andes) Edwards ('71) and her husband, Jonathan, have one son, J. Richie. They attend Heritage Baptist Church in Lakeland, Florida.

Lee (’72) and Pat (Van Prooyen) (’71) Siemens are newly retired. They have three children: Corie, Joel, and Molly. They attend Heritage Baptist Church in Kentwood, Michigan.

Lorraine (Calder) Mahan (’72) and her husband, Ken, have three children: Shawn, Jeremy, and Jason. Ken is a leader at Above and Beyond Ministries. They attend Above and Beyond Community Church in Boca Raton, Florida.

Judy (Parschauer) (’73) is a musician at First Baptist Church in LaGrange, Ohio, and a music teacher. She and her husband, Charles, have three children: Aaron, Rebecca, and Charles.

Charlene Capron (’76) is working as an administrator for an insurance company. At her church, Calvary Baptist Church in Waterbury, Connecticut, she plays the keyboard, is the church clerk, and is on the missions committee. She is engaged to be married to a fellow student from her Word of Life Bible Institute year!

Arthur and Elaine (Kingman) Johnson (’76) have greenhouses and raise bedding plants, hanging plants, perennials, Christmas trees, etc., and have a ministry with the Amish. They have five adult children: Edward, BJ Charbonneau, Linda Anema, Marilyn Montesano, and John. They attend Hamburg Bible Church in Hamburg, Pennsylvania.

Rebecca (Baker) Raffo (’77) is a nursery director. She and her husband, David, have three children: Micah, Rachel, and Tabitha.

Chris Brown (’78) is a certified public accountant, owns his own business, and is an elder at Maranatha Bible Church in Comstock Park, Michigan. He and his wife, Gloria, have two children and are grandparents, too!

Francis and Patricia Welch (’78) are involved in a grief ministry and teach a life group. Patricia is a women’s speaker and writes ladies Bible studies. They attend Northcliffe Baptist Church in Spring Hill, Florida.

Tammy Hicks (’79) is an executive assistant at Raymond James in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Thomas and Ruthie Becker (’79) attend Grace Fellowship Church in Latham, New York. They have two children: Matthew and Joshua. Ruthie enjoys gardening, nursing, singing, and decorating.

Karen (Jesser) Zitta (’79) works at the WYMC as a swim instructor and is interested in real estate. She and her husband, Franklin, Jr., have four children: Hannah, Faith, Franklin III, and Joseph. They attend Grace Baptist Church in North Dinwiddie, Virginia.

Alumni News: 1980s
Alumni News: 1990s
Alumni News: 2000s
Alumni News: 2010s

Be Praying: April Ministries Schedule.

Pray along with us during this season of ministry.

April 2-6
Open Air Evangelism trip to New York City
GenReal in Akron, Ohio

April 4-6
Student Fusion at New Hope Bible Church, Irasburg, Vermont
Springfield ministry

April 4-13
Voice of Victory tour (churches visited: First Baptist, Goshen, Indiana; Calvary Baptist Church, Kalamazoo, Michigan; Mayfair Baptist Church, Flushing, Michigan; Fish Lake Bible Church, Sturgis, Michigan; Calvary Baptist Church, Ypsilanti, Michigan; Alfred Almond Bible Church, Almond, New York; alumni events in Getzville, New York, and McMurray, Pennsylvania)

April 5-7
Drama team at Lowville Mennonite Church, Lowville, New York

April 5-13
Collegian tour (churches visited: Seneca Gospel Mission, Buffalo, New York; Centerpointe Community Church, Lancaster, New York; Bailey Road Baptist Church, North Jackson, Ohio; Delaware Bible Church, Delaware, Ohio; Delaware Christian School, Delaware, Ohio; Olmsted Performing Arts Center, Olmsted Falls, Ohio; First Baptist Church-Glen Este, Batavia, Ohio; Bethel Baptist Temple, Cincinnati, Ohio; Colonial Baptist Church, Wintersville, Ohio)

April 6-9
Open Air Evangelism trip to New York City

April 9
Ministry team to Capital City Rescue Mission in Albany, New York

April 9-13
Open Air Evangelism trip to New York City

April 11-13
Student Fusion at North Pownal Congregational Church, North Pownal, Vermont
Praise team and travel team at Syracuse Teens Involved

April 21
Ministry team to Capital City Rescue Mission in Albany, New York

April 25-27
Intersect event in Albany, New York
Ministry team at Word of Life Inn & Family Lodge for Mother-Daughter Retreat
Ministry team to Lighthouse Mission in Long Island, New York

Click here to read what's behind some of the Bible Institute's newer ministries, including GenReal, Redemption, Student Fusion, and Camp Intersect.

Alumni Gatherings: Spring 2014.

We're still locking down the details, but pencil in the dates and locations for these alumni gatherings this spring.

March 21: Capital City Baptist Church (Columbia, South Carolina)
March 22: The Summit Church, Brier Creek campus (Durham, North Carolina)
April 10: The Chapel (Goetzville, New York)
April 11: The Bible Chapel, South Hills campus (McMurray, Pennsylvania)
April 22: Bridgewater Baptist Church (Montrose, Pennsylvania)
April 26-27: The Creation Museum (Petersburg, Kentucky)
April 29: North Royalton Baptist Church (North Royalton,Ohio)
May 9: Faith Community Church (Gambrills, Maryland)
May 10: Fellowship Bible Church (Sewell, New Jersey)
May 16-17: Bible Institute's Owen Sound campus
May 23-26: Homecoming/Founders Conference/Alumni Reunions/Memorial Day (Bible Institute's New York campus)

For a complete list of alumni gatherings, visit wordoflife.edu/alumnigatherings.

Homecoming • Founders Conference • Alumni Reunions • Memorial Day

May 23-26, 2014

We anticipate alumni from all over the country joining us in Schroon Lake for Homecoming this spring during Founders Conference on Memorial Day weekend. Speakers for the conference are Don Lough, Jr., Harry Bollback, and our special guest speaker, Dr. Paul Dixon, chancellor of Cedarville University. The featured speaker at our Memorial Day patriotic rally is Lt. Col. and Texas state Sen. Brian Birdwell. Brian was severely injured on 9/11 at the Pentagon.

Activities for the weekend include a reception Friday night after the opening session, a camp tour, a golf outing (Saturday afternoon), family fun time (Sunday afternoon), and the introduction of the Alumnus of the Year. Accommodations are available at the Word of Life Inn & Family Lodge, and meals are available at the Inn and Bible Institute. We look forward to seeing you there!

Two reunions are in the works, but alumni from all years are welcome:

40th Reunion (Class of 1974)
Hosts: Dave Feltz, Joanne Scurlock Feltz, Elizabeth Bollback Nelson
Honored Guest: Dr. John and Janet Master

35th Reunion (Class of 1979)
Host: Daryl Bollinger

Preliminary Schedule:
Friday (May 23), 7 p.m.: General Session (Dr. Paul Dixon)
Saturday (May 24), 9:45 a.m.: General Session (Dr. Paul Dixon)
Saturday (May 24), 11:15 a.m.: General Session (Dr. Paul Dixon)
Saturday (May 24), 7 p.m.: General Session (Harry Bollback)
Sunday (May 25), 9:45 a.m.: General Session (Dr. Paul Dixon)
Sunday (May 25), 11:15 a.m.: General Session (Don Lough, Jr.)
Monday (May 26), 11 a.m.: Memorial Day Concert and Rally (Lt. Col. Brian Birdwell)

Greetings from Schroon Lake, N.Y.

Hope you're all having a great winter!

A special alumni event: The Creation Museum.

The Word of Life Bible Institute alumni association is sponsoring a Word of Life event April 25-27 at the Creation Museum in Petersburg, Kentucky, just across the river from Cincinnati, Ohio.

Arrive Friday evening and spend Saturday (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and Sunday (12 p.m. to 6 p.m.) at the museum. Word of Life is planning a special time for alumni on Saturday at 6:15 p.m. Alumni are welcome to enjoy dinner and time with Word of Life Executive Director Don Lough, Jr. and Redemption, a music group made up of alumni. A worship time is also being planned for Sunday morning at Calvary Baptist Church in Covington, Kentucky.

Special Feature: Anyone registering as part of the Word of Life group will be invited to a behind-the-scenes tour of the amazing new Noah’s Ark project. The cost for a two-day pass (Saturday and Sunday) and dinner Saturday night is $15 for anyone 13 years and older, and free for those 12 and under. Register now by clicking here.

We have negotiated special rates for accommodations. Contact them directly to make reservations.

Country Inn and Suites
759 Petersburg Rd.
Hebron, KY 41068
859.689.0700
Daily Rate: $85 — standard room (two queens or a king)
Daily Rate: $100 — suite (one bedroom, two queens or one king, pullout sofa)
countryinns.com/hebron-hotel-ky-41048/ohcinprt

Indian Springs Campground
3306 State Line Rd.
North Bend, OH 45052
888.550.9244 or 513.353.9244
Daily rate (Good Sam Club or AAA member):
30 amp: $36
50 amp: $41
Daily rate (no discount):
30 amp: $40
50 amp: $45
http://indianspringscampground.com/contact.html

Plan now to bring the whole family, friends, or your church youth group. Pass the word to other churches and make this exciting weekend a highlight of your year.

Check out the Creation Museum at creationmuseum.org.

Where Are They Now: Guest Lecturers.

One of the best parts of the Bible Institute is the wide variety of guest lecturers students get to learn from each year. Many of these guest lecturers are also involved in ministries and schools where Bible Institute alumni are now. Here’s a rundown of this year’s guest lecturers for the different campuses, including where they’re coming from and what they’re teaching. You may be able to make a connection.

New York, First Year

• Dr. Wendell Calder, founder of Local Church Evangelism, evangelist,
  conference speaker (James)
• Bruce Scott, field ministries director for The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry (Matthew)
• Dr. Larry Moyer, founder and CEO of Evan Tell, Inc. (Personal Evangelism)
• Dr. John Master, professor emeritus at Cairn University, Langhorne, Pennsylvania (Leviticus)
• Dr. Jimmy De Young, evangelist and conference speaker (Revelation 6-22)
• Dr. Doug Bookman, director of student recruitment, professor of New Testament at Shepherds Theological Seminary (Passion Week)
• Rev. Bill Boulet, senior pastor of Heritage Baptist Church in Lakeland, Florida (Revelation 1-5)
• Dr. Chris Gnanakan, executive director of Outreach To Asia Nationals in Winchester, Virginia (Acts)
• Mr. Don Lough Jr., executive director of Word of Life Fellowship (1 Peter)
• Mr. Mark Strout, executive dean of Word of Life Bible Institute
  (Bible Survey, Daniel)
• Mr. David Payne, associate pastor at Spring Hill Bible Church in Brooksville, Florida (Hebrews)
• Dr. Dan Anderson, president of Appalachian Bible College, Mount Hope, West Virginia (Ezra)
• Dr. Ray Pritchard, author and conference speaker, president of Keep Believing Ministries (Galatians)
• Mr. Mike Calhoun, special assistant to the director for ministry development, Word of Life Fellowship (Ecclesiastes)
• Rev. Dave James, conference speaker, The Alliance for Biblical Integrity (Church History 3)
• Rev. John Bouquet, senior pastor at Bethel Baptist Church, Savannah, Ohio (1 Corinthians)
• Rev. Ric Garland, vice president of Word of Life Local Church Ministries (Proverbs)
• Dr. Ken Cleaver, associate professor, Church History and Theology at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia (Church History 1)
• Dr. Marshall Wicks, associate academic dean at the Bible Institute’s Florida campus (Eschatology)
• Dr. Terry Mortenson, lecturer, researcher with Answers in Genesis (Creationism)
• Dr. James Jeffery, president of Baptist Bible College (Ecclesiology)
• Dr. Ben Gutierrez, professor at Liberty University (Philippians)
• Dr. Charles Scheide, former pastor and former associate academic dean at the Bible Institute’s Florida campus (Pastoral Epistles)
• Dr. Thomas White, president, Cedarville University (Pneumatology)
• Dr. Steve Viars, senior pastor and Nouthetic counselor at Faith Baptist Church, Lafayette, Indiana (Counseling)
• Mr. Gerald Franz, former college librarian and professor at Hodges University (Church History 2)
• Dr. Tom Davis, academic dean, Word of Life Bible Institute (Theology)

New York, Second Year

• Dr. Richard Emmons, pastor and professor at Cairn University
  (Genesis 12-50)
• Mr. Mike Calhoun (Philosophy)
• Dr. Jim Bjornstad, former professor at Cedarville University (Cults 1 & 2)
• Mr. Bruce Peterson, founder of Total Life Management (Leadership)
• Dr. Dan Anderson, president of Appalachian Bible College, Mount Hope, West Virginia (Nehemiah)
• Mr. Gary Ingersoll, professor at the Bible Institute’s Florida campus
  (Children’s Ministries)
• Dr. Marshall Wicks (Contemporary Issues 1, Theological Methodology)
• Dr. Jerry Johnson, president of Criswell College in Dallas, Texas (Contemporary Issues 2)
• Dr. Tom Davis, Executive Dean Mark Strout, Dean of Students Joe Schenke, Dean of Men Jeff Lewis (Contemporary Issues 3)
• Mr. Kris Stout, vice president of Word of Life International Ministries (Discipleship)
• Dr. Steve Wilt, general director of Fellowship International Mission, Allentown, Pennsylvania (Prayer)
• Dr. Matt McAlack, professor at Cairn University (History of Christian Education)
• Dr. Wendell Calder (2 Corinthians)
• Rev. Doug Reider, associate academic dean at Bible Institute’s Owen Sound campus (1 John)
• Dr. Russell Woodbridge, professor at Kiev Theological Seminary, Kiev, Ukraine (Personal Finances)
• Mr. Don Lough, Jr. (Spiritual Gifts)
• Mr. Sean Pierce, director of Northeast Church Planting in Schenectady, New York (Church Planting)
• Mr. Tom Phillips, director of Youth Camps and Music, Word of Life Fellowship (Christian Manhood)
• Rev. Glenn Amos, pastor at Heritage Baptist in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania (Life Transitions)
• Dr. Emir Caner, former Muslim and president of Truett-McConnell College (Islamic Evangelism)
• Rev. Tom Simcox, church ministries training coordinator at Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry, Bellmawr, New Jersey (Jewish Evangelism)
• Dr. Larry Moyer (Evangelistic Public Speaking)
• Rev. Frank Eberhardt, founding director of Gospel Outreach International to Roman Catholics (Roman Catholic Evangelism)
• Dr. Charles Scheide (Local Church Administration)
• Mrs. Joy White, adjunct professor at Cedarville University
  (Women’s Ministries)
• Dr. Randy Patten, executive director, National Association of Nouthetic Counselors (Counseling 2)

Florida

• Dr. Ray Pritchard (James, Daniel)
• Mr. Tom Phillips (Judges)
• Mr. Mark Strout (Genesis 1-11, Eschatology)
• Dr. Larry Moyer (Personal Evangelism)
• Rev. Bill Boulet (Revelation 1-5)
• Dr. Tom Davis (Leviticus, Revelation 6-22)
• Mr. Bruce Scott (Matthew)
• Dr. Steve Wilt (1 Peter)
• Rev. John Bouquet (John)
• Mr. David Payne (Hebrews)
• Dr. Wendell Calder (Acts, Galatians, Ephesians)
• Dr. James Jeffery (Ecclesiology)
• Dr. John Master (Philippians)
• Dr. Jerry Franz (Church History 2)
• Mr. Mike Calhoun (Ecclesiastes)
• Dr. Dan Anderson (Ezra)
• Rev. Tom Simcox (Church History 3)
• Dr. Steve Viars (Counseling)
• Dr. Charles Scheide (Pastoral Epistles)
• Rev. Ric Garland (Proverbs)
• Dr. Ken Cleaver (Church History 1)
• Mr. Adam Christmas, professor at Trinity Baptist College in Jacksonville, Florida (Pneumatology)
• Dr. Marshall Wicks (Theology)
• Mr. Gary Ingersoll (Bible Survey)

Owen Sound

• Dr. Wendell Calder (James)
• Rev. John Cross, evangelist, author (Evangelism)
• Rev. Steve Hobbs, pastor, Vincent Baptist Church, Chester Springs, Pennsylvania (Haggai/Malachi)
• Dr. Ken Gardoski, professor, Baptist Bible Seminary (1 Corinthians)
• Rev. Dave James (Church History)
• Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (Revelation )
• Rev. Ken Fillmore, pastor, The Peoples Church, Truro, Nova Scotia (Galatians)
• Rev. Steve Faulkner, pastor, Emmanuel Bible Church, Simcoe, Ontario (Proverbs)
• Rev. Bob Snell, pastor, First Baptist Church, Waterloo, Ontario (Ecclesiology)
• Rev. Frank Roe, representative , ABWE Canada (Acts)
• Rev. John Boyd, pastor for more than 40 years in the Maritimes, Ontario, and the U.S. (Ephesians)
• Rev. Paul Harbourne, pastor, Fellowship Baptist Church, Collingwood, Ontario (Hebrews)
• Rev. Matthew Little, president, New Brunswick Bible Institute (2 Peter/Jude)
• Dr. Gary Gromacki, professor, Baptist Bible Seminary (Genesis)
• Rev. Jeff Eastwood, associate pastor, Grace Baptist Church, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island (John)
• Dr. Ronald Gibson, retired professor, Lancaster Bible College (Daniel)
• Rev. Mark Lowrie, pastor, South End Fellowship Baptist Church, Owen Sound, Ontario (Judges)
• Dr. Wayne Strickland, provost, Multnomah University, Portland, Oregon (Church History)
• Dr. Charles Scheide (Pastoral Epistles)
• Dr. Tom Davis (Leviticus)
• Dr. Marshall Wicks (Pneumatology)
• Mr. Gary Stairs, former executive director, Word of Life Canada (John,
  Church History)
• Mr. Mark Strout (Eschatology)
• Mr. Scott Foreman, executive director, Word of Life Canada (Matthew)
• Mr. John Fogle, academic dean, Word of life Bible Institute Philippines (Joshua)
• Rev. Joe Schenke (Counseling)

 Jeju

• Rev. Ric Garland (James)
• Dr. Gary Gromacki (Genesis 1-11)
• Mr. Brad Quackenbush, Apt to Teach Ministries (Exodus, Judges, Ruth)
• Dr. Randy Faulkner, senior pastor, Metropolitan Baptist Church, Oklahoma City (Joshua)
• Mr. Bob Anderson, founder/director of Trail's End Ranch (Matthew)
• Mr. Steve Nicholes, associate dean at the Bible Institute's Jeju campus (Leviticus)
• Mr. David James (Hebrews)
• Dr. Jeff Billingsley, former pastor and teacher for Walk Thru the Bible (Acts)
• Mr. Joe Schenke (Biblical Counseling)
• Dr. Paul Holritz, Biblical Ministries Worldwide (1&2 Timothy/Titus)
• Mr. Mark Hall, missionary director for Word of Life Bermuda (1 Peter)
• Mr. Mark Strout (Ephesians, Bible Geography, Israel Study Trip)
• Dr. David Dean, professor of Bible and Systematic Theology at Yan Fook Bible Institute, Hong Kong (Daniel)
• Dr. William Ki, professor at Yan Fook Bible Institute (Church History)
• Dr. Mike Eiras, senior pastor, First Baptist Church, Dent, Ohio (Galatians)
• Dr. Jerry Kroll, pastor emeritus, Heritage Baptist Church, Lynchburg, Virginia (2 Peter/Jude)
• Dr. Wendell Calder (Philippians)
• Pastor Dave Merkh, missionary, Word of Life Seminary, Atibaia, Brazil (Proverbs)
• Dr. Charles Savelle, adjunct professor, Criswell College, Dallas, Texas (Revelation)

Treating bodies, spreading the Word: Dr. Dick Stagg.

When God called Dr. Richard Stagg and his family from their small Midwestern town to the crowded streets of southern Bangladesh, he knew he’d need as much spiritual training as he could get. He and his wife prepared their hearts for the journey at the Bible Institute in New York, graduating with the second-ever class in 1972.

“Leave your country and your people,” God said, “and go to the land I will show you.”
(Acts 7:3)

“Very seldom have I had a verse grab me by the throat like that,” Dr. Richard “Dick” Stagg says.

He came across the Scripture during his Quiet Time, just two days after finding out he’d have to leave the office where he practiced family medicine. It was the final push he needed to accept God’s call to enter the mission field.

Stagg first considered medical missions four years prior when Dr. Viggo Olsen of the Association of Baptists for World Evangelism (ABWE) visited his town of Paulding, Ohio. When Dr. Olsen visited again just two months before that life-changing quiet time, Stagg asked him to speak at his church and invited him to stay with his family. The doctor once again challenged Stagg to talk with God about serving overseas.

“He asked me to pray about it, but I knew I was where the Lord wanted me to be (then),” Stagg recalls.

However, the verse in Acts — on top of a notice to vacate his office and the visit from Dr. Olsen — soon convinced him otherwise. Stagg and his family were headed to Bangladesh.

He was excited to follow the Lord to Bangladesh, but to be a successful teacher, counselor, and missionary, Stagg knew he needed the depth of Scripture immersion that few places can provide. He and his wife, Carol, enrolled in the Bible Institute and moved their family to Schroon Lake, excited to delve into God’s Word.

At the Bible Institute, Stagg could practice Word of Life’s discipleship, ministry, and personal growth approach without distraction.

“I had nothing to do but study God’s Word,” he recalls. “It was very enjoyable and satisfying — something I never thought I’d be able to do.”

The Stagg family also helped with Snow Camp and spent the following summer on staff at the Inn. Then it was time to load a plane to the Middle East.

Stagg, his wife, Carol, and daughters Kathy, Karen, and Kristen were thrilled to begin their new lives as missionaries. The girls — ages 11, 10, and 7 at the time of the move — had been included in the prayerful decision-making process of entering the mission field and were excited for the adventure of a new home thousands of miles away.

The country, about the size of Wisconsin, was home to approximately 75 million people when they arrived. “It was one of the poorest countries in the world and the most crowded,” Stagg notes.

He, Carol, and the girls adjusted to a new culture, different customs, and not having a mall or grocery store nearby. They spent 15 years abroad with a furlough only every four years, during which they’d stock up on everything from birthday cards and anniversary gifts to clothes and shoes for their growing daughters.

Though the cultural difference was significant, Stagg says adjusting to his role as a missionary doctor was his greatest challenge.

“Once, six men came in from a machete fight in which they’d crushed one another’s skulls,” he recalls. “I was in surgery from nine that evening until noon the next day. Five of the six lived.” Considering the injuries, he adds, “I thought that was pretty good.”

The country’s turbulent nature challenged Stagg’s evangelistic efforts as well. Many of his patients were antagonistic to the Gospel. But he connected with Bangladeshis through the common Bengali language and, starting with a doctor-patient relationship, was able to open hearts to God’s truth.

“People knew their physical need, and by addressing it in a kind, loving, and competent way, they were then more willing to listen about the spiritual need they hadn’t been aware of,” he says.

Stagg deems this outreach the most satisfying aspect of his time in Bangladesh. The doctors, nurses, and physical therapists he worked with shared this commitment to ministry, and the group helped one another stay focused on their goal of shining Christ’s light in the predominantly Muslim area.

“Being so oppressive, it drew us all together,” Stagg says. “We were forced to depend on God and each other, which strengthened our spiritual resolve.”

Realizing the need for biblical training of Bangladeshi Christians, Stagg took a leave of six weeks from his medical responsibilities to help establish an institute for biblical learning. He began by teaching the book of Romans at both Memorial Christian and at ABWE’s headquarters in Chittagong. Today, the school is known as the Baptist Bible College of Bangladesh and has campuses in both Chittagong and Malumghat.

Stagg recalls a young student named Provanjan, who came to know the Lord through a nurse who worked at Memorial Christian. Provanjan had grown up in a Hindu family but fervently embraced the hope of the Gospel. He was handpicked to attend the Bible college, and in addition to studying, working full time, and caring for his family, he traveled to a nearby village at least once each week to witness. He eventually started teaching Bible classes and helped establish a church in the village. Stagg says he’s never met anyone more committed to serving God — and Provanjan was the first person he met who tithed his time as well as money.

The Stagg family returned to the U.S. in 1988 when Carol’s failing health became worse, and Stagg began working as an emergency room doctor at a hospital in Ohio. Within five years, ABWE was in his life once again. The international ministry had moved its headquarters from Cherry Hill, New Jersey, to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and its president offered Stagg the part-time, unpaid position of medical director.

“Of course I said yes,” Stagg says, chuckling.

He worked at a local hospital and was ABWE’s medical director for 17 years, retiring in 2010 at age 72. He now lives in Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, with his second wife, Linda, whom he married four years after Carol passed away.

Upon his retirement, Stagg returned to Bangladesh for the first time in more than 20 years. He and Linda were thrilled to find Bangladeshi Christians further spreading the good news to a community in great need.

“It was so satisfying to see nationals running the school and teaching the classes,” Stagg says. “I never thought I’d see spiritual fruit in Bangladesh in my lifetime.”

After such a clear sign to pick up his family, work through intense Bible study, and go to the mission field, Stagg has also seen the obvious proof that God was ready to bring a harvest.

Editor’s Note: Word of Life is aware of allegations concerning ABWE. Dr. Stagg’s ministry is not a part of any of these allegations.

RV Park: A great option for community.

We told you a little about Word of Life Florida’s RV Park in previous issues. Here’s some more from two Bible Institute alumni who have made the RV Park their home. If you’re reaching retirement age and are looking for a Christian community to be a part of, visit http://flconference.wol.org/content/rvpark.

Bob and Suzanne Hazard have been involved with Word of Life since 1974, when they spent a week’s vacation at Word of Life Inn shortly after getting saved. They enjoyed their time at Word of Life so much that, 10 years later, Bob resigned from his job in law enforcement and moved with Suzanne and their three children to New York to attend the Bible Institute.

Bob and Suzanne loved their year at the Bible Institute, where they became grounded in the Word and grew close to many people. They even considered moving overseas to Australia, but that door did not open, and they instead settled in southwest Florida. After seeing two of their children attend the Bible Institute (and meet their spouses there), they looked into Florida’s RV Park as retirement neared.

Bob and Suzanne say they could not have retired to a better place. "It's like being at the Bible Institute all over again," Bob says. RV Park members can hear all the world-class speakers who come to Word of Life, attend Bible Institute classes, and use the recreational facilities.

Bob and Suzanne are also active outside the RV Park community. They joined Idlewild Baptist Church, and Bob rides a motorcycle, a lifelong passion, with friends from church and the RV Park. Suzanne leads a water aerobics class and has made many new, like-minded friends. It has been the perfect setting for their silver years.

Victory Journal Issue 8: Online.

You can find all the articles from the latest Victory Journal on this blog, but if you'd like to see a PDF version of the actual magazine, click here.

Also, if you are not receiving the print copy, please send us your updated contact info at alumni@wol.org, and we'll get you on our mailing list.

Tours: More Locations.

The Magi production will also be taking a swing through Florida, Georgia and Alabama. Take a look at what's behind Magi, and check below to see if the Word Life group is coming to a church near you.