THE BRETHREN CHURCH

Imagine a peanut butter business sparking a spiritual awakening! That's exactly what's happening in Malawi, thanks to an amazing chain of connections and the incredible generosity of people like you. God is moving in powerful ways, weaving together faith, entrepreneurship, and community transformation. It all started with Moses, a dedicated believer and successful peanut butter entrepreneur in Malawi. He met our friend Doug Cooper, who leads Coffee Growing Community – a nonprofit that helps low-income communities grow stronger, both economically and spiritually. Thanks to a generous grant from Coffee Growing Community, Moses received the support he needed to expand his business and uplift his community. But the story doesn't end with business growth. Moses, fueled by a passion for his faith and his community, traveled to South Africa. There, he connected with our Brethren Mission Partner, Pastor Sandile. Moses wasn't just there to talk business; he wanted to learn how his company could spread the life-changing message of Jesus Christ even further. He spent invaluable time with Pastor Sandile and the vibrant Life Spring Church, soaking in the Brethren faith and vision from many local pastors and leaders. Today, because of these powerful connections, Moses and Pastor Sandile are working hand-in-hand to establish the very first Brethren Church in Malawi! A location is secured, a building is already under construction, and a dedicated group of believers has gathered, ready to see this new church blossom. Moses will soon begin discipleship and ordination training, preparing him for even greater ministry. And the best part? Pastor Samkelo Noholoza, his wife Clara, and their family are preparing to move from South Africa to Malawi this September to join Moses! They'll bring their wisdom and experience from their ministry in Durban, helping to nurture this new spiritual seed as it grows into a thriving church. This inspiring partnership is a testament to what happens when faithful hearts like yours come together to make a difference. It shows how we can work together to build communities where everyone can flourish – spiritually, economically, and socially. Will you help us continue to sow seeds of hope and expand God's Kingdom in Malawi? Your support makes these life-changing connections possible. Every gift empowers faithful leaders like Moses and the Noholoza family to bring light and opportunity to those who need it most. Please consider making a gift today to support this vital work. https://secure.qgiv.com/for/southafricadonationform/ Thank you for adding a few more drops of life-giving nourishment to sustain growth in this incredible story of faith and transformation. Sincerely, Scott Soden Global Partners Coordinator

Imagine a love story, complete with twists, turns, and a triumphant ending – but instead of two people, it's about two churches. Sunday, June 8, 2025, marked such a story in Ashland, Ohio, as Five Stones Community Church and Garber Brethren Church officially united, beginning a powerful new chapter in their shared mission. The air was filled with immense joy and a clear sense of divine purpose. The celebration began with a powerful message on the themes of Pentecost, reminding everyone that this merger was truly a work orchestrated by a higher power. Amidst the excitement, the newly formed congregation immediately looked outward, pausing to offer heartfelt prayers for Emily Huestis and her vital work with Bread for the World, an organization dedicated to ending hunger. As John Shultz from Five Stones shared, the journey to this union felt "a lot like a Hallmark movie." Both churches, living separate lives, were brought together by circumstance, discovered a special connection, faced unexpected challenges, but ultimately, their shared faith prevailed. Steven Cole, former Executive Director of The Brethren Church, highlighted the foundational efforts of past leaders who paved the way for this moment. Then, John Shultz and Drew Meziere of Garber Brethren Church recounted the individual histories of each church. They spoke of decades of ministry, acknowledging not only the triumphs but also the "stories of difficulty, setback, and pain along the way." Their honesty showed the resilience and perseverance that brought them to this joyful day. Pastor Bill Ludwig of Five Stones then joined them, offering his unique perspective on the dedicated work of the past few years that made this merger possible. He spoke of the deep joy and unwavering belief that this unification was undeniably God's work, a testament to His guiding hand throughout the entire process. The celebration culminated in a deeply moving and symbolic act: the lighting of a unity candle. Usually seen in wedding ceremonies, this poignant symbol perfectly represented the spiritual marriage of two distinct congregations becoming one. John Shultz and Drew Meziere together lit the flame, a tangible sign of hearts and spirits uniting in shared faith and a common future. With the bright flame of unity shining, Pastor Bill offered a heartfelt prayer, asking God to continue pouring His spirit on the combined church as they serve the greater Ashland community. Finally, in true Brethren tradition — where good fellowship always includes good food — everyone shared a meal. Laughter and conversation filled the room, cementing the bonds of their newly expanded family. Now powerfully united, Five Stones Community Church and Garber Brethren Church look forward to a future of expanded ministry, deeper community, and an even greater impact in Ashland, Ohio. Guided by the same spirit that brought them together, their combined strength promises a vibrant new chapter of service and faith for years to come.