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In Mission
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then
you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2
CNH Mission Newsletter
A Tale of Two
“Replants”
Our Savior in Chester, CA and First in Greenville,
CA are two small, isolated congregations who had
begun to believe that there were no other options but to
close, sell, and plan for a good ending.
Issue No 13- November 2014
seminary graduate, Rev. Tyrel Bramwell, at the
eleventh hour. He and his family are uniquely suited
both experientially and attitudinally for life and ministry
in this location.
We praise God for community connections which
include a Pacific Crest trail ministry to hikers, outreach
to families and children through Sunday school, youth
activities, a weekly community supper, and a coalition
of faith-based organizations to serve the needy in their
community.
About two years ago, because of the investment
and encouragement of faithful leaders and the Nevada
circuits (and not to forget the ever-present power of the
Holy Spirit), attitudes began to shift and hope began to
emerge.
Mark Kliewer and the Nevada circuit supplied
attention and encouragement, and provided funding
which allowed for an interim pastor. Rev. Mick Ista and
his wife Tammy to begin work with these two small
congregations.
Both groups began to look at how they might serve
their communities. Public schools and support of
teachers and extra-curricular programs (sports and
music) became a wonderful place to add value in their
communities.
(Pastor Tyrel Bramwell and family)
Hope and confidence began to grow in the hearts of
both congregations. But God wasn’t done yet. Through
an unlikely turn of events, God supplied a new
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In another isolated spot, worshipping in the library in
Koloa town on the island of Kauai, St. Matthew was
birthed through the efforts of vicar John Bombaro and a
committed group of laity. Despite several set-backs,
this group has persevered as a worshipping
community.
In the past months, there has been a reconnection
with the CNH and its Hawaii congregations. Two young
men have begun training in the Mission Training Center
for potential licensed deacon leadership. Pastoral
support and oversight would also be added. God has
blessed this group with committed families and
individuals who have a heart for pure Christian (Law/
Gospel) doctrine applied “in mission” on their island.
We pray for a God-pleasing partnership as plans are
considered for re-entry into the CNH and
LCMS, as opportunities for mission into their island
communities are pursued. God has already begun
adding to their number.
Mission “Replants” in the CNH
Mission re-plant congregations enter mission status
and submit themselves in ideology and behavior to
reaching those who are not yet part of the body of
Christ. They choose to intentionally focus their
attention towards forging relationships with those
outside the body for the sake of Christ active in the
world. These existing faith communities demonstrate
the following qualities:
1. A willingness to invest in their secular communities
for the sake of Christ’s mission.
2. Sacrifice of significant time and congregational
resources so that new groups might be reached
with the gospel.
3. Willingness to partner in mission strategy and
accountability with the CNH Mission Agency.
4. Open to accountability and review of their mission
strategies and plans.
0% mission loan funding will be considered for faith
communities entering replant/mission status. Grants
and/or other financial partners may be considered or
sought on a case-by-case basis.
(William Pierce and Timmy Hamilton - deacons in
training - with Mike Lange)
More to pray for…
1. For the health and welfare of the Bramwell family and their encouragement so that they might pursue with energy
and focus the missionary opportunities before them.
2. Wisdom for Timmy Hamilton and William Pierce as they consider deacon responsibilities, education, and
possibilities that lay before them.
3. God’s leading for Our Savior, First, and St. Matthew congregations that they would be faithful and willingly
engaged in Christ’s mission.
If you would like to be a mission prayer partner for your congregation or are interested in Direct Missionary Support for one of our
eligible missionaries, please contact Pastor Mike Lange, [email protected] or his assistant, Glenna Sanlis, [email protected].
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