NEWSLETTER.

“And every prayer we prayed in desperation, The songs of faith we sang through doubt and fear…” These lyrics have been the prayer of my heart recently. I’ve been asking God: Do You still move like You did before? Can You really provide when the need feels too big to name? Nearly 2 years ago when Lower Lights Ministries opened the Child Enrichment Center (CEC), it didn’t make sense to many. We were told it wasn’t a smart investment—an early learning center on a block with a tough reputation? In a building that once had black mold? Serving families facing…

In the Church of the Nazarene, we are called to be a connected people—united in mission, faith, and generosity. One of the most tangible ways we express that unity is through our participation in denominational allocations. These vital contributions—such as giving to the World Evangelism Fund (WEF), Mount Vernon Nazarene University, Nazarene Pensions, and the South Central Ohio District—are more than financial transactions. They are acts of faith that create lasting kingdom impact. The World Evangelism Fund (WEF) is the lifeline of global missions in the Church of the Nazarene. Every gift supports missionaries, church planting, compassionate ministries, and leadership development in 165 world areas. When…

NDI Equip coming in February! Are you ready to be inspired, refreshed, and equipped for the work of discipleship? Are you ready to connect with likeminded leaders who are learning together? Join us for NDI Equip, a powerful half-day designed to strengthen leaders, encourage pastors, and ignite the church to fulfill Christ’s call to make disciples in your setting. Date: February 21, 2026Place: Logan Church of the NazareneTime: Registration @ 8:30 AM; First Plenary session @ 9:00 AM; Lunch concludes by 1:30 PM.Cost: $10 Register Here: Discipleship – South Central Ohio District This year we are thrilled to welcome Daryl…

CLERY APPRECIATION: IN HONOR OF SHEPHERDS As the month of October rolls around each year, we are reminded of the gift that our clergy are to each of us. They pray for us, lead us, administer the sacraments to us, preach Good News to us, officiate at weddings and funerals, provide pastoral care, and call us to a missional vision for our communities and the world. We most often think of our pastors during this month, but clergy also include evangelists, chaplains, ordained educators, and denominational leaders. Almost half of the lead pastors on the South Central Ohio District are…

Ministry Assessment Weekend Just a few weeks ago, we held our annual assessment at Burr Oak State Park Lodge. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of southern Ohio, it is a beautiful drive through winding roads and small towns. The lodge, set deep in the woods and overlooking the lake, provides a peaceful, spectacular setting for an event like this. We had thirteen clergy candidates (and spouses where applicable) and eight assessors gathered for an intensive weekend. But you may ask, “What is a ministry assessment weekend?” That’s a fair question. Martin Luther is credited with championing the “Priesthood of Believers,”…

Why Hocking Hills Retreat Center Should Matter to All of Us The Hocking Hills Retreat Center (HHRC) is more than a place—it’s a sacred space with a God-given vision to transform lives and shape the future of ministry. Here’s why it should matter to us: Exciting Updates on HHRC’s Progress Get Involved Want to hear the latest updates or discuss making a financial pledge? Contact me at rpaugh@shepnaz.org or call 614-205-8023. We can also provide resources to share with your congregation. Visit the HHRC Landing Page by scanning the QR code to explore the master plan, track progress, and give…

WHAT:  Ministry Team Retreat (formerly Pastor and Spouse Retreat) WHERE: Carlisle Inn, 1357 Old Rte. 39 NE, Sugarcreek WHEN: Friday through Sunday, October 3 – 5 WHO: Lead Pastors – Staff Pastors – Chaplains – Educators –Evangelists – Retired Ministers – Widows of Ministers – Unassigned Ministers You spoke and we listened:  We’re headed back to Sugar Creek! Friday evening, the weekend begins with a time of praise and worship.  Eddie and Diane Estep will lead two panels Saturday morning, followed by table discussions.  You’ll be free for lunch and all afternoon to enjoy the beauty of Amish country.  We will gather together Saturday…

What If God Wants to Use Your Church to Start Something New? When we read the book of Acts, one truth becomes clear: the early church grew because ordinary believers stepped out in faith to start new communities of worship and mission. Church planting isn’t a fad or a strategy reserved for megachurches—it’s the heartbeat of the Great Commission.Across our district, there are communities where the gospel witness is almost non-existent, neighborhoods where people live and die without ever encountering Jesus in a meaningful way. What if God is calling us to change that? What if He wants to use…

Nurturing the Call We are inviting every pastor across the South Central Ohio District to join together in preaching on The Call on Sunday, October 12, 2025. While none of us—including pastors and parents—can call someone into the ministry, we can create a climate in our churches and homes where it is easy for God to call, and easier still for people to hear His voice. I will never forget the night God called me. It was a warm July 23 evening during a youth camp service in Summersville, West Virginia. That moment has been the defining spiritual experience of…