God Moved in Panama
What happens when 49 people from 20 different churches say “yes” to God?
For four unforgettable days in small remote regions of Panama, we witnessed the answer. Our team came ready to serve—but it didn’t take long to realize that God had already gone before us. In makeshift clinics and simple community spaces, 562 precious people were seen, cared for, and prayed over, reminding them of their immeasurable worth. Each touch, each conversation, each prescription was an opportunity to remind someone that they are seen, known, and deeply loved by God.
In the heat and humidity, our construction team poured their strength into building not just walls, but hope—working on a local church and the district ministry center that will stand as beacons of light for years to come.
Children’s ministry was another highlight of the week. Four Vacation Bible School gatherings were held, inviting eager children to learn, sing, and hear about Jesus. We also gave out four hundred pillowcase dresses. Seeds of faith were planted in young hearts that will help grow and shape the future of these communities.
We were able to place nine Jesus Film packs into the hands of local leaders—tools that will continue sharing the Gospel long after we’re gone.
Prayer stations were set up throughout the outreach efforts, creating intentional spaces for spiritual conversations and ministry. People came to ask for prayer, to share burdens, to seek hope, and at least 250 people stood to say they want to know our Jesus. Two hundred and fifty. That’s not a statistical number but hearts awakened to the love of a Savior.
The team also provided a new stove, microwave, kitchen supplies, and desks and chairs for the District Center as well as a generous love offering to our incredible missionary host family, Pastor Eliezel and Tammy Soto.
Forty-nine people from twenty different churches united with nearly 25 Panamanian’s, worked together as one body. Different backgrounds. Different stories. Different gifts. One mission. And God did more than we could have asked or imagined.
As we return home, the work in Panama continues. Please pray for the pastors and leaders who will disciple these new believers and shepherd the harvest God has begun.
This isn’t just a report – it’s eternal impact. Praying the fruit of Panama continues to grow.
Carol Lee Carpenter
SCO District NMI President
districtsecretary@sconaz.org
I’m looking forward to District Assembly. Since last assembly, we’ve been focused on “The One” (Evangelism). This assembly, we will focus on “The Next Yes” (Discipleship & Holiness).
The dates for our 2026 District Assembly are Sunday, April 26 (Ordination Service at 6:00 p.m.) and Monday, April 27 (Worship; Reports: DS, Pastors, District Officers and Boards; Elections; Communion), beginning at 8:30 a.m. at Grove City Church (The Naz).
We are looking forward to welcoming Dr. Christian Sarmiento, our Jurisdictional General Superintendent, and his wife, Margit.
And I am looking forward to seeing you!
Eddie Estep
SCO District Superintendent
2026 – Equip Conference
What an extraordinary Equip Conference! Over 200 participants were stirred, stretched, and renewed in their understanding of true disciple‑making. Daryl Cripe guided each session with compelling conviction and rich biblical insight, reminding us that our calling is not only to seek “The One,” but to invest in many—walking with them in love, friendship, and a pursuit of sharing Jesus with them. Countless attendees expressed that this was among the most impactful Equip Conferences they’ve ever experienced. Thank you to Michael Falgout, Joel and Karina Tucher, Kevin D’Ettorre, Dale Benson, Josh Porterfield and Calvin Green for excellent workshops. Dan Meek, District NDI Director, and his team are to be commended for organizing this event.
Mark your calendars now for the next Equip Conference, February 20, 2027 – with Dr. Sam Barber.
Logan Church
Congratulations to Pastor Tom (Tara) Gates and the Logan Church Board on a very positive twenty-six-year Church/Pastoral Relationship Review. We are grateful for the significant partnership between the pastor, church board, and congregation, and for Pastor Tom’s faithful, fruitful ministry.
Hebron Church
What a gift it was to worship with the Hebron congregation on February 15. Pastor Jerry and Carol Lee Carpenter lead with such genuine love for their community and a deep passion for global missions. We remain deeply grateful for their faithful and impactful leadership across our district.
Congratulations!
Congratulations to SCO Children’s Quizzing Director, April Litman, who has been named to the Global Quizzing Leadership Team! She will continue serving as our amazing leader and be an awesome asset to the denomination as she serves on the Global Team.
District BLAST
District BLAST is Saturday, March 21st at Heritage Church of the Nazarene in Circleville, OH. Registration is open and the cost is $35 per person. Please make sure to register by March 6th. Click here for the information packet and registration details. Please contact Pastor Caleb Dexter, our BLAST Director, with any questions at caleb@m1naz.com.
Exciting Mission Tour
Starting this Sunday!
Help spread the word to your congregations. Zone tours allow our missionaries to share their ministry and build relationships across the district. We’re thrilled to feature Roberto and Rhesa Rodriguez, faithfully serving at the USA/Mexico Border.
March 8 – Logan 6:00 pm
March 9 – Hilliard 7:00 pm
March 10 – Marietta First 6:30 pm
March 11 – Grace Life 7:00 pm
March 12 – Hebron 7:00 pm
March 15 – Cornerstone 6:00 pm
March 16 – Ironton First 7:00 pm
March 17 – Obetz 6:00 pm
March 18 – Jackson First 7:00 pm
March 19 – New Hope 7:00 pm
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