“The season of Advent is an invitation to wait as well as prepare. That is to make room for the surprising ways that Christ shows up.” - Page 8
NBUSA Quarterly is published by Nazarene Benefits USA to inform church leaders and employees about matters of clergy finance, along with articles of encouragement, spiritual enrichment, and wellness. Non-copyrighted information may be shared in newsletters and electronic communications.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Kevin P. Gilmore
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Roger Creeden
EDUCATION MANAGER
Emily Bartlett
OFFICE MANAGER
Lavonne Rieck
TECHNOLOGY SUPERVISOR
Ron Bell
COMPLIANCE AND BENEFITS MANAGER
Keith Hindman
COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST
Calata Bagunu
17001 Prairie Star Pkwy, Lenexa, KS 66220-7900 benefits@nazarene.org
888.888.4656 | nbusa.org Mon-Fri: 8am-4:30pm CT
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Benefit Improvements for Ministers
BY KEVIN P. GILMORE
My Summer Quarterly article focused on how God has blessed our journey to improve benefits for Nazarene ministers in the U.S. over the past several years. It ended by saying “stay tuned” because we were already exploring some new things. Thanks to the great work of my team here at NBUSA, and the faithful support of our Benefits Board, I’m pleased to share important new benefit enhancements for active Local Church Ministers (LCM’s) to become effective on January 1, 2026.
Enhanced 403(b) Match
We’re increasing the NBUSA match to 100% of the first $250 contributed to the LCM’s retirement account by the LCM and/or local church. This means every dollar contributed up to the first $250 will double in value.
Every dollar contributed up to the first $250 will double in value.
While participation in our 403(b) Ministers Match program continues to grow, only 34% of eligible LCM’s received a match so far in 2025. The remaining 66% serve in churches which support our NBUSA Fund sufficient to qualify them, but there were no local effort retirement contributions for us to match.
We know many LCM’s serve small congregations with modest budgets and consider this an unaffordable impediment to participate and save for retirement. Let’s say an LCM contributes $125, their local church contributes $125, and NBUSA matches with $250 under this new policy. If a 25-year-old LCM were to start this way and repeat these actions every year until age 67 (normal retirement for Social Security benefits today), the funds will grow to nearly $140,000 at a 7% long-term earnings rate. By itself that is not enough for a minister to retire well, but if the annual contribution was increased by 5% per year the value would grow to over $280,000.
We hope this enhancement creates a greater incentive for the 66% to begin to contribute and provides momentum for even higher contribution levels from them in the future. Taking these positive steps will yield even greater matching benefits and growth to help ministers retire well.
Emergency Savings Match Program
When an LCM or their church contributes $750 to an emergency savings account, NBUSA will now provide an additional $750 to create a $1,500 fund to help them better respond to sudden financial needs.
Dr. Larry McKain, director of the COMPASS Initiative, and I have been in constant conversation over the past two years about keeping the momentum of COMPASS working toward ministers’ well-being long after the Lilly grant funds have been exhausted. Partnering on this new program is the first of what we hope will be multiple steps in that direction.
To receive the NBUSA match, the LCM must complete a short COMPASS financial wellness course, meet the same benefit eligibility requirements as the 403(b) match program, and the local church support of the NBUSA Fund must be at least 50%.
As the first action towards developing a sound financial plan, this new initiative to establish emergency savings accounts will help to protect ministers and their families from unexpected expenses and reduce their vulnerability to financial hardship. Participation is limited to 400 ministers per year on a first-come, first-served basis.
Increased Survivor Benefit Coverage
NBUSA will also implement a 20% increase in the base level of survivor benefits (life insurance) for qualified active ministers, effective January 1, 2026.
This enhancement increases the amount available to the surviving family members of an active minister, helping ensure greater financial support in the event of a minister’s death. The increase will be implemented, with no change to participant eligibility or contribution requirements, and if you are covered today, there’s no action needed on your part. The table below illustrates the improvement in coverage:
Remember, these are base levels of life insurance benefits. Ministers and their families need more than this, so be sure to explore what’s available through our supplemental insurance program.
Continuing Our Commitment
These three initiatives—the enhanced 403(b) match, new emergency savings match, and increased survivor benefits—reflect NBUSA’s ongoing commitment to improve benefits for ministers and their financial wellbeing.
These three initiatives—the enhanced 403(b) match, new emergency savings match, and increased survivor benefits—reflect NBUSA’s ongoing commitment to improve benefits for ministers and their financial wellbeing.
By addressing retirement readiness, emergency preparedness, and family protection, NBUSA continues to promote strong stewardship practices for those we serve and provide the critical financial resources that fund our work.
For more information about eligibility and participation, visit www.nbusa.org or contact our office (888) 888-4656.
Kevin P. Gilmore serves as executive director of Nazarene Benefits USA for the Church of the Nazarene.
SENSIBLE
STEWARDSHIP
Charitable Giving Strategies for Every Age and Budget
BY AMY ARTIGA
This is a season where we celebrate the greatest gift ever given, Jesus Christ, and doing so often inspires us to respond with our own generosity. While we give because He first gave to us—and not for the tax benefits—it’s still nice to receive some tax benefits if possible. Here is what you need to know about charitable giving and the tax code.
New 2026 Provisions
Most people only receive a tax benefit for their charitable giving through itemized deductions on Schedule A for all of their eligible donations. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which was passed in July, made some small changes to that.
Starting in 2026, married filers can deduct up to $2,000 of charitable donations ($1,000 for single filers) while claiming the standard deduction. Also starting in 2026, those who itemize their deductions will be subject to a 0.5% AGI floor for their charitable deductions. That means a person with an AGI of $100,000 will not be able to deduct the first $500 of their charitable giving.
Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs)
A donor-advised fund is similar to a savings account for charitable giving. You donate money to the account and then make distributions from the account to qualified charities. When you put money into a DAF, you are making a completed charitable gift. That means the gift is irrevocable and becomes eligible for tax deduction in the year given.
Bunching Donations
A DAF is a tool often used to implement a bunching giving strategy. With this strategy, you contribute two or more years’ worth of charitable giving at one time in order to get a large tax deduction. Then you make
your charitable donations from your DAF over the next two years while claiming the standard deduction in the second year. Some people can save up to several thousand dollars in taxes by following this strategy.
Appreciated Securities
Another way to receive a tax benefit for your charitable giving is by donating appreciated securities that you have held for more than a year, rather than cash. When you sell securities to donate the proceeds, then you must pay taxes on the difference between what you bought them for and what you sold them for. However, if you donate the securities directly to charity (which can also be a DAF), you receive a deduction for the full current market value of the securities, but neither you nor the charity has to pay taxes on the valuation growth.
Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)
If you are over age 70 ½, then you have the opportunity to make Qualified Charitable Distributions. A QCD is a gift made directly from a traditional IRA account to a qualified charity. If you withdraw money out of your IRA directly and then make a donation, your IRA distribution is taxed as ordinary income. When the money goes directly from the IRA to the charity through a QCD, it is not counted as income to the donor, so you get an immediate tax benefit whether you itemize deductions or not. The amount of the QCD is counted toward your annual required minimum distribution.
If you are over age 70 ½, then you have the opportunity to make Qualified Charitable Distributions.
A
QCD is a gift made directly from a traditional IRA account to a qualified
charity.
Legacy Gifts
A final way to make charitable contributions that save on taxes is upon your passing. It is common to include your church or a nonprofit organization in your estate planning. When doing so, the best type of asset to leave to a charity is a tax-deferred account, such as a traditional IRA, 403(b), or 401(k). Those are the
assets that your heirs have to pay the most taxes on, but charities do not have to pay any taxes when they receive those accounts.
As you consider your charitable giving, don’t ask, “How much should I give?” Rather, ask the Lord, “How much should I keep?”
Budget Line Item
Finally, I would like to encourage you to include a line item in your budget so that when needs arise, especially those of individuals and not qualified charities, you already have the funds set aside to help. Remember, the Good Samaritan was only able to do what he did (and end up with countless ministries and hospitals named after him 2,000 years later) because he had money on hand to help others.
When it comes to giving, it’s important to remember that we give as a response of gratitude for all He has given us. As you consider your charitable giving, don’t ask, “How much should I give?” Rather, ask the Lord, “How much should I keep?”
Amy Artiga is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), a Certified Kingdom Advisor™, and author of the clergy personal finance blog PastorsWallet.com. Send questions for Amy to benefits@nazarene.org
SSA Announces Cost of Living Increase for 2026
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a cost of living adjustment (COLA) of 2.8% for participants and beneficiaries in 2026. The adjustment begins with payments in January 2026.
Benefits Fair
On November 20, Nazarene Benefits held our annual virtual benefits fair. Attendees gained valuable insights on how to plan for a secure retirement and ensure they are receiving the Nazarene benefits they deserve.
Highlights included presentations from Fidelity on keeping your financial accounts secure, maximizing Social Security and Medicare benefits, as well as expert advice from a CPA on ministers’ taxes.
If you missed the event and would like to access a recording, please contact NBUSA and we’ll be happy to provide you with a link.
PRESSING ON
The One Behind the One, You Are
BY DARON BROWN
The ground beneath me felt a little less stable. For decades, I benefited from the up-close mentoring of two extraordinary men. One has been my pastor since college days. He is a consummate pastor who shaped my pastoral identity. The other was my district superintendent during my formative years of leadership development. His mentoring is what made them formative. Both are giants in my eyes. Both treat me like a son, and I see them as fathers. Both believe in me more than I believe in myself. I thrived under their spiritual direction, encouragement, correction, and affirmation. A few years ago, both retired at nearly the same time. That was when my ground shifted. Both are still alive, available, and accessible. But life, for me, became different when they stepped back from ministry. All of a sudden, I was doing ministry without the direct mentoring of these primary figures. I am happy they served well and now enjoy a season of life apart from the chaos of ministry. At the same time, I was not prepared for the ways I struggled personally when they retired. I felt a sense of loss. Then I felt guilty. After all, who am I to feel sorry for myself? I had two great mentors. Some people struggle to locate one.
I asked the Lord to help me find my footing. After a few months of prayer and self-pity, I heard the Lord’s voice reframing my thinking. Instead of changing my circumstances, God changed my focus. He spoke in a way I can understand. God said, “Daron, you’ve been a Luke. Now be a Yoda.”
In the classic Star Wars saga, Luke Skywalker is the young hero called to do something great. For him to fulfill his calling, Luke receives training. The one doing the training is Yoda, a strange, old figure whose calling is to make the young Luke ready. Luke is the one. Yoda is the one behind the one. Or, to be true to Yoda, the one behind the one, Yoda is.
Luke is in the foreground and in the moment. Yoda is in the background, able to see the bigger picture
with greater clarity. Luke is young and on the journey toward wisdom. Yoda is seasoned and wise. Luke lacks experience. Yoda draws deep from centuries of lived experience. Luke speaks often. Yoda’s words are few and focused. Luke is mainly responsible for Luke and his own territory. Yoda is responsible for territory beyond himself, including Luke. Because Luke is young and wide-eyed, he cares too much about too many things. Because of Yoda’s experience, he knows what is worth caring about and what is not. Luke lives in receiving mode because he needs to receive. Yoda lives in giving mode because Luke needs to receive. Luke is a sponge. Yoda is a fountain. Being Luke is hard enough. Being Yoda is harder and more complex.
God is calling me to see myself as less of a mentee and more of a mentor.
In my second half of life and ministry, God is calling me to see myself as less of a mentee and more of a mentor. Others saw it in me before I did, just like others spotted my call to ministry before I did. Obviously, I had to realize and accept it for myself. I’m learning how to be a mentor—not that I’ve grown out of my need for mentors. Making this transition is more difficult than one might think. It feels like an animal shedding its skin or shell to grow into a new season of life. Part of the challenge is this: By the time someone is seasoned enough to mentor well, they are so settled in their ways they are unwilling or unable to adjust to being a mentor. With the Lord’s help, I’m pushing through the internal shift and learning the skillset and necessary practices to mentor well. They include relational investment, active listening, funneling credibility, encouragement, discernment, and the ability to call something out of people. More than anything, it requires willingness to step back to push others forward—to believe in them more than they believe in themselves.
The ground beneath me still feels unstable. Nevertheless, I am learning my call is to provide some stable ground for others.
Rev. Daron Brown lives and pastors in Waverly, Tennessee, with his wife, Katie, and children, Kendall, Parker, and Macy.
DWELLING WITH GOD
Advent Waiting
BY MARY REARICK PAUL
Advent is a season of anticipating the arrival, or “advent,” of Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah and King. This celebration of the good news of the in-breaking of God’s Kingdom is also an invitation to a life of prayer for Christ’s presence to be known in you, me, and our world through the promise of Christ’s return. Advent holds a yearning and waiting for us to receive anew the activity of God’s breath in our lives. As I write these reflections, I am physically sitting in my house that is mostly packed up, staged for potential buyers while waiting for many unknowns to be made known. It is a season where I am walking with God by faith as I do not know where I am to go next but know it is time to leave.
Advent is a gift for those of us sitting in a waiting room. Waiting for a glimmer of light, for an open door,
a direction for our next step. The prayers of Advent point to the horizon with faith that hope is coming, peace is coming, joy is coming, love is coming, Christ is coming. And in beautiful ways Advent calls the whole community of God to prepare for God’s kingdom to come and to pray beyond our personal experiences, naming the yearnings and groanings of the wider world. We are not to be simply satisfied with the ways God has been at work in our lives but are called to join the hard waiting in the yearning prayers of our neighbors. If you are sitting in a waiting room, Advent calls us to wait with you. I am so thankful for the faithful friends and family who have been taking turns sitting in the waiting room with me, praying over each hard decision, showing up in various ways, reminding me I am not waiting alone. And still, waiting is hard.
I love this description of waiting by Tara Beth Leach: “Sometimes I wait like a child pressing her face up to the window in anticipation of her parents coming home. Sometimes I wait like a child throwing herself on the floor of Target because she can’t get what she
wants. Sometimes I wait like the hostess who lights up her home with candles in anticipation of her guests. Sometimes I seek to numb the pain of waiting.”1
The season of Advent is an invitation to wait as well as prepare.
It takes the creation of quiet spaces for me to fully settle into advent waiting. A waiting that breathes in God’s word and promises. The season of Advent is an invitation to wait as well as prepare. That is to make room for the surprising ways that Christ shows up. The promise of Christ’s coming is good, and here is my confession; I not only pray for Christ’s coming, but I would like to dictate when and how. The when is, of course, now. I like instant/quick results, and I also know the best things in life take time. Things like a homemade feast, a flowering garden, a new-born baby, a new skill or a deepening love take time, preparation, and patience.
The “how,” I often imagine, is a way forward that makes “sense” to me and resolves the questions with as little stress as possible. It takes the creation of quiet spaces for me to settle into an open waiting. A waiting that breathes in God’s word and promises. It can take sheer will to engage in some practices of stillness. Occasionally I will use a stopwatch, as I recognize my measure of time spent in silence needs to be stretched by real numbers. Some of my advent practices include:
• Turning off all the lights except for the Christmas tree and candles and honestly name my hopes and fears, remaining still before God.
• Walking at night around my neighborhood, listening to the sounds about me, praying for the homes I walk by.
• Making space for some creativity, such as sitting with paper and watercolors, and allowing a calmness to settle so my mind can wander anew. Anther practice is to pray a hymn of the season; this expresses a growing desire that Jesus would be born anew. The lyrics lend me language as I pray for a deeper, wider, and wilder openness to God’s ways being born in me and through me. In the intimate places of darkness in our lives, in our families, in our churches, in our communities, Christ is faithful to come and bring new life as we bring our hopes and dreams. This lyric from “O Little Town of Bethlehem” captures the promise of God for all of us sitting in waiting rooms: “Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light; the hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight”
Here I am, God. In this season of waiting and wondering, I open myself to you. Come Lord Jesus.
Amen
Dr. Mary Rearick Paul, D.Min, is a minister and Vice President of Student Life and Formation at Point Loma Nazarene University.
2 “O Little Town of Bethlehem” author, Phillips Brooks, and the composer, Lewis H. Redner, Brooks wrote the text in 1868
PAST TO PRESENT
Edward Lawlor
BY STAN INGERSOL
Edward Lawlor was the consummate evangelist. He was born in 1907 into a Roman Catholic family in South Bank, Yorkshire, England. He immigrated to Canada with his mother and three siblings after his father’s early death. They settled in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
He experienced an evangelical conversion at age 18 and began working with the Salvation Army while studying theology at its local training school. He also attended Wesley College, a Methodist school in Winnipeg, majoring in speech. By 1930, he had moved to Ontario and was studying sociology at a YMCA college. He gained experience teaching in Winnipeg public schools and at YMCA centers, and serving as a YMCA program director.
He joined the Church of the Nazarene in 1934, the year he professed entire sanctification. He was 27. He spent the next year conducting revival meetings in Canada and the United States. With his wife Margaret, he began his pastoral ministry on the Canadian prairie at a home mission church in Shackleton, Saskatchewan. R. T. Williams ordained him in 1936 at the Manitoba-Saskatchewan District assembly.
Lawlor next pastored the church in Picture Butte, Alberta. Then he was called to Calgary First Church. His evangelistic preaching was popular there and drew large crowds. He was pastor there from 1939 to 1946.
The Alberta District elected him superintendent in 1946, as did the British Columbia District. Lawlor oversaw the three-way merger of these districts, along with the Manitoba-Saskatchewan District, in 1948. The new Canada West District was immense and comprised Nazarene congregations across four Canadian provinces. One year, he traveled over 67,000 miles.1 He led the district for another twelve years.
He told the 1957 district assembly: “Home missions has had a large share of my time, my prayers, and my labours during the year.” The district needed to find preachers and financial support “for the purchase
of property, for evangelism in the unchurched cities, towns and rural areas of western Canada.” There was more: “I have tried to visit the churches as needed, never turning a deaf ear to any call.”2
He chaired the Red Deer camp meeting board and the Board of Governors of Canadian Nazarene College. His annual reports always reflected his fostering care for Canadian Nazarene College. He was a General Board member and a trustee of Nazarene Theological Seminary. He was on the denomination’s Crusade for Souls Commission and published a book on evangelism at its request.3
The 1960 General Assembly elected Lawlor as executive secretary of the Department of Evangelism. He had traveled extensively in western Canada, now he would do so throughout North America. Lawlor was completely in his element, upholding the banner of evangelism and functioning as an evangelist.
Franklin Cook wrote that Lawlor’s preaching was marked by passion and clarity. The clarity was reflected in the organization of the sermon, which always led hearers to the preacher’s destination. Passion was exhibited through strength, intensity, and discipline. Lawlor’s years as a teacher were evident in preaching that was articulate and knowledgeable. A colleague noted that Lawlor’s “personal appearance in the pulpit, his deep resonant voice, and his dramatic style of delivery marked him.”4
A Canadian pastor once said that Lawlor reminded him of Jehu, who, the Bible says, “drove his chariot furiously.”
A Canadian pastor once said that Lawlor reminded him of Jehu, who, the Bible says, “drove his chariot furiously.” Lawlor once asked a friend to drive him home to Kansas City after a meeting in Wichita. Lawlor had so thoroughly poured himself out in the work that he lay down in the back seat and slept for the whole four-hour journey.5
Lawlor was one of three new general superintendents elected in 1968 and served in that
office until 1976. In addition to conducting the normal round of assemblies, he held revivals at Nazarene colleges, gave the address at church dedications, and spoke at ministerial gatherings.
Retirement released him to give full-time service to evangelism, which he did for nearly eleven years. He died in San Diego in 1987. William Greathouse preached at his funeral service, conducted in San Diego First Church, and he was buried in El Camino Memorial Park in Sorrento Valley.
Dr. Stan Ingersol, Ph.D., is a church historian and former manager of the Nazarene Archives.
1 In 1955, British Columbia broke off and became part of a new Canada Pacific District, which Lawlor also led until 1956. See First Annual Assembly Journal of the Canada Pacific District Church of the Nazarene (1956): 25.-27.
2 Ninth Annual Assembly Journal of the Canada West District Church of the Nazarene (1957): 41, 43.
3 Ibid, 43.
4 Orville Jenkins, Herald of Holiness (Jan. 15, 1988): 15.
5 Neil Hightower, ”Tribute to Edward Lawlor,” Herald of Holiness (Jan. 15, 1988): 16; and Franklin Cook, email to Stan Ingersol, Oct. 3, 2025. Franklin Cook drove Lawlor’s car.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Nazarene Benefits USA strives to support ministers from their first assignment through retirement. One way we support ministers is through Nazarene events. Our events are attended in person or virtually with a live representative.
We strive to educate participants on our benefit plans, financial markets, the importance of retirement planning, and a variety of other financial issues that may be impactful. Participant registration is required, but all events are free of charge.
Web Workshops & Events This Quarter:
Please visit our website at nbusa.org/education for information about upcoming workshops in 2026!
NBUSA Office Closures
As the year draws to a close, we would like to take a moment to thank you for your continued partnership and support throughout 2025.
Please be advised that the NBUSA Office will be closed from Monday, December 22, 2025 through Friday, January 2, 2026 in observance of the Christmas and New Year holidays. We will resume regular business operations on Monday, January 5, 2026.
Should you have any year-end matters requiring our attention, we kindly encourage you to reach out prior to our closure dates.
Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous start to the new year.
Autism Spectrum Disorder TO YOUR HEALTH
BY STEPHEN A. WILSON
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Neurodevelopmental disorders (ND) influence how the brain functions and alter nerve development, resulting in difficulties in social, cognitive, and emotional functioning. They start in childhood; sometimes diagnosis may not occur until adulthood. NDs include intellectual disabilities, learning disorders, sensory sensitivities, and social interactive challenges, among others. They can affect memory, language, behavior, learning, emotions, and motor skills. Most people with these diagnoses can effectively manage their challenges with the right interventions, support, and accommodations.
What is ASD? ASD and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are the most common NDs. ASD affects how people see others and interact or socialize with them, which causes problems in communication and social interactions. In addition to persistent deficits in social communication and interaction across multiple contexts, people with ASD tend to have restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities.
Symptoms have to be present from early childhood, cause clinically significant impairment, and not be explained better by intellectual disability or general developmental delay. It is a spectrum disorder because of the wide range and severity of symptoms. ASD includes conditions that were once thought to be separate — autism, Asperger’s syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and other forms of developmental disorders not quite specified or named. There is also a spectrum of disability. Some people are cognitively intact and struggle more socially or emotionally; some are more globally affected. Most grow up to live healthy, productive, independent lives. Some can be more limited in their ability to function or live independently.
How is ASD diagnosed? The gold standard is a comprehensive, multidisciplinary evaluation using standardized tools such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview. There are no specific biomarkers or blood tests. Early signs include lack of response to name, limited gestures, and absence of imaginative play in the first two years of life. Screening is recommended for all children 18 to 24 months of age. If you notice these behaviors in a grandchild, family friend, nephew, or niece, recommend the child see their family doctor or pediatrician.
Who has ASD? ASD affects as many as 1 in 36 children in the United States, with a male-to-female ratio of about 4:1. It could be closer to 3:1, due to potential under diagnosis in females due to differences in symptom presentation and coping strategies. It has become more prevalent in the last few decades, likely due to changes in diagnostic criteria (how it is diagnosed), improved screening (we look regularly for it), and greater awareness (more people know about it and think of it as the cause for abnormal behaviors). Many of you probably recall someone who was a little different or odd growing up who would meet criteria for ASD today. People with ASD often have other health issues, including things like intellectual disability, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.
Autism Spectrum Disorder affects as many as 1 in 36 children in the United States, with a male-tofemale ratio of about 4:1, [and] could be closer to 3:1.
What causes ASD? There is no single cause. ASD is multifactorial, involving both genetic and environmental factors, with hundreds of genes and several chromosomal abnormalities implicated. Environmental risk factors include advanced parental age, maternal diabetes, prenatal infections, and exposure to certain medications or pollutants during pregnancy. For example, in some large observational studies, there was a slight association between acetaminophen during pregnancy and a small increased risk for ASD.
Most of the studies did not show an association. Association is not causation. There are further studies examining if there may be a small subsection of people who may be genetically predisposed to the acetaminophen hypothesis. It is unfortunate that so many mothers with children with ASD will now be wondering if a few doses of acetaminophen “caused” it, that they “caused” it. Current data does not support this type of thinking.
Emerging research is exploring how environmental exposures may influence gene expression through something called epigenetic mechanisms, further highlighting the multifactorial nature of the etiology of this spectrum disorder.
How is ASD treated? No medications directly treat the core social communication deficits of ASD. The first approach is early, intensive behavioral intervention, particularly for children under 5 years, to improve language, play, and social communication. Some specific approaches can help improve core symptoms:
• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a widely used approach that reinforces positive behaviors and reduces problematic ones.
• Early Start Denver Model
• Speech and Language Therapy: Helps improve communication skills.
• Occupational Therapy: Focuses on daily living skills and sensory integration.
• Social Skills Training: Teaches appropriate social interactions and emotional regulation.
Medications are reserved for comorbid symptoms: irritability and aggression can be treated with risperidone and aripiprazole, for which both are FDA-approved; depression and anxiety can be treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), and co-occurring ADHD can be treated with psychostimulants. Melatonin can be effective for sleep disturbances. Treatment should be individualized, target specific symptoms and comorbidities, and include family support and educational interventions.
Early diagnosis and tailored interventions for symptom management, behavior modification, and skill development are key.
ASD is a lifelong condition for which there is no cure. Early diagnosis and tailored interventions for symptom management, behavior modification, and skill development are key. With the right support, many individuals lead fulfilling and independent lives.
Dr. Stephen A. Wilson, MD, MPH, FAAFP, is Chair of Family Medicine at Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine and Chief of Family Medicine for Boston Medical Center.
Church Triumphant
Church Triumphant lists credentialed Nazarene ministers or spouses who were receiving benefits provided by NBUSA at the time of death.
Mrs. Elizabeth E. Abbott
Jacksonville, Arkansas
Mrs. Jayne Almon
Oskaloosa, Iowa
Mrs. Florence E. Apple
June 2, 2025
age 83
October 21, 2025
age 62
August 10, 2025
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma age 80
Mrs. Mary Lou Archer-Taylor August 19, 2025
Fishers, Indiana age 92
Mrs. Brenda G. Ashworth August 17, 2025
Donalsonville, Georgia age 72
Rev. Dale E. Aubrey Sr. September 6, 2025
Titusville, Florida age 84
Mrs. Judith L. Bailey-Parmer
Sand Springs, Oklahoma
Mrs. Delta Batten
Canal Winchester, Ohio
Rev. George A. Blain
McMinnville, Oregon
Mrs. M. Dianne Book
Lubbock, Texas
Mr. Jerry Bridewell
September 23, 2025
age 82
October 2, 2025
age 73
August 26, 2025
age 86
August 19, 2025
age 81
October 3, 2025
Avon Park, Florida age 75
Rev. C. Eugene Broach September 23, 2025
Loudon, Tennessee age 84
Rev. Gregory R. Brown
Wildwood, Florida
Rev. Richard L. Brunstetter
Yakima, Washington
Mrs. Zelda C. Burns
October 31, 2025
age 66
July 25, 2025
age 81
September 1, 2025
Stow, Ohio age 89
Rev. Gary L. Carr July 31, 2025
Three Rivers, Michigan age 79
Mrs. Leona Carrigan August 10, 2025
Beebe, Arkansas age 96
Rev. Eldon Cornett August 19, 2025
Lawtey, Florida age 99
Mrs. Natalie Clayton
Marietta, South Carolina
Rev. Alfredo S. Cortez
Simi Valley, California
Mrs. Esther Crabtree
Springfield, Ohio
Dr. Ron R. Creasman
Tracy, California
Rev. Barbara R. Cummings
August 1, 2025
age 87
October 6, 2025
age 86
August 25, 2025
age 97
July 29, 2025
age 68
August 30, 2025
Chandler, Arizona age 87
Dr. James H. Diehl November 2, 2025
Lakewood, Colorado age 88
Mrs. Eloise Diffenderfer September 15, 2025
Peyton, Colorado
Mrs. Lois J. Duncan
Blue Springs, Missouri
Rev. Joseph J. Frank
Uniontown, Ohio
Rev. James L. Franklin
Lumberton, North Carolina
Mrs. Zora Frazier
Little Rock, Arkansas
Rev. Donald C. Gadbow
age 85
August 24, 2025
age 84
August 1, 2025
age 72
August 10, 2025
age 88
September 7, 2025
age 87
October 17, 2025
Monroe, Iowa age 86
Rev. Gary D. Garrett September 1, 2025
Fulton, Missouri age 76
Rev. Hilton H. Gillespie
October 20, 2025
Leesburg, Georgia age 97
Mrs. Dorothy Gilpin
July 31, 2025
Bandera, Texas age 93
Rev. Jimmy D. Graham
Haltom City, Texas
Mrs. R. Deane Grant
Mount Pleasant, North Carolina
Dr. James C. Haynes
Mount Vernon, Ohio
Rev. Ronald L. Harrison
Mount Juliet, Tennessee
Rev. Herbert P. Heller
October 9, 2025
age 81
October 4, 2025
age 93
October 3, 2025
age 83
October 12, 2025
age 80
August 11, 2025
Flomation, Alabama age 89
Mrs. Barbara Holderfield August 14, 2025
Maumelle, Arkansas age 91
Rev. Paul P. Holderfield Jr. October 8, 2025
North Little Rock, Arkansas age 73
Rev. J. McCray Holmes September 14, 2025
Charlotte, North Carolina age 95
Mrs. June Holmes
Charlotte, North Carolina
Mrs. Wanda F. Hudgens
Shelby Township, Michigan
Mrs. Ruth Human
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Rev. Ronald E. Ingram
Ridge Farm, Illinois
Dr. James H. Jackson
October 9, 2025
age 95
August 5, 2025
age 86
August 24, 2025
age 90
October 6, 2025
age 82
July 30, 2025
La Jolla, California age 105
Rev. Lige E. Jeter August 14, 2025
North Fort Myers, Florida age 88
Mrs. Myrtle L. Jetton
Bethany, Oklahoma
Mrs. Marcia Johnson
San Jose, California
Mrs. Peggy Jones
Bethany, Oklahoma
Rev. Phillip R. Kellerman
Danville, Indiana
Rev. Rickey D. Kepley
Springfield, Missouri
August 28, 2025
.age 100
October 2, 2025
age 83
August 31, 2025
age 76
September 24, 2025
age 94
July 31, 2025
age 67
Rev. Fouzi Khawaja August 23, 2025
Sugar Land, Texas age 95
Mrs. Irene E. Knee August 17, 2025
Tabor, Iowa age 92
Dr. Ronald K. Kratzer November 1, 2025
Nampa, Idaho age 89
Rev. Raymond V. Lepkowicz Jr. September 17, 2025
Drummonds, Tennessee age 76
Mrs. Karen J. Lingenfelter
Poplar Bluff, Missouri
Mrs. Bernice Linger
Norton, West Virgnia
Rev. Paul R. Litten
Charlottesville, Indiana
Rev. Guadalupe Vidal Lopez
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Dr. Kim Lundell
September 21, 2025
age 70
September 25, 2025
age 75
August 1, 2025
age 81
August 25, 2025
age 71
September 27, 2025
Valley Center, California age 84
Rev. John V. Lutton Sr. October 6, 2025
Ligonier, Indiana age 86
Rev. Dr. Terry Q. McCrory July 26, 2025
Goshen, Indiana age 77
Mrs. Sonja F. Midcap September 1, 2025
Middleport, Ohio age 81
Susan M. Middendorf
Edmond, Oklahoma
Rev. Paul S. Moore
Margaretville, New York
Mrs. Clara E. Moorman
Dayton, Ohio
Mrs. Linda M. Myers
Canal Winchester, Ohio
Mrs. Emily J. Oates
September 22, 2025
age 81
August 24, 2025
age 83
August 22, 2025
.age 105
October 10, 2025
age 76
August 24, 2025
Souderton, Pennsylvania age 36
Mrs. Hi Sun Pak September 1, 2025
San Jose, California age 81
Rev. Richard A. Parker
Morehead, Kentucky
Rev. Jack R. Pease
Cottonwood, Arizona
Rev. Cliff A. Perkins
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Mrs. Ranae D. Phelps
Gladewater, Texas
Rev. Reva H. Porter
Locust Grove, Georgia
October 12, 2025
age 86
October 10, 2025
age 93
October 27, 2025
age 75
September 19, 2025
age 67
August 7, 2025
age 80
Rev. Jose Quintana July 24, 2025
Homestead, Florida age 83
Mrs. Barbara J. Ralph September 16, 2025
Kingsport, Tennessee age 88
Mrs. Dorothy E. Ramsey October 19, 2025
Brawley, California age 68
Rev. David L. Reed September 3, 2025
Las Vegas, Nevada age 93
Rev. Manuel Rodriguez Salazar
Rogers, Arkansas
Rev. James F. Rupert
Peoria, Arizona
Rev. Robert E. Sargent Sr.
Elon, North Carolina
Rev. Joel Sejour Sr.
Miami, Florida
Dr. Robert J. Shephard
July 28, 2025
age 69
August 21, 2025
age 95
August 22, 2025
.age 100
October 19, 2025
age 76
July 30, 2025
Guthrie, Oklahoma age 80
Mrs. Peggy Slocum October 11, 2025
Olympia, Washington age 80
Rev. P. Carroll Smith October 5, 2025
Berry, Alabama age 89
Rev. T. M. Duane Smith August 29, 2025
Lakeland, Florida .
Mrs. Elnora Sorenson . . .
Sun City, Arizona
Rev. Gary T. Stephens .
Lakeland, Florida
Rev. Gregory A. Stevens . .
Lima, Ohio
Rev. M. Leon Sutterfield
Moore, Oklahoma.
age 77
August 2, 2025
age 89
. . September 5, 2025
age 80
. . September 30, 2025
age 65
September 29, 2025
age 86
Rev. C. David Tabler July 23, 2025
Harlingen, Texas age 82
Rev. William E. Taylor September 23, 2025
Tennessee Ridge, Tennessee age 75
Mrs. Iris Talley September 5, 2025
Brentwood, California age 93
Rev. Daniel W. Thew October 12, 2025
Orlando, Florida age 80
Mrs. Diana Thornton
Chili, Wisconson
Rev. Clair P. Uitts
Port Saint Joe, Florida
Rev. Charles L. Wallace
Hopewell, Virginia
Mrs. Cynthia Wassom
Bowling Green, Kentucky
Mrs. Delores Watt
October 8, 2025
age 80
September 4, 2025
age 89
August 12, 2025
age 99
September 3, 2025
age 99
September 10, 2025
Dallas, Oregon age 99
Mrs. Lois A. Weston August 19, 2025
Olathe, Kansas age 82
Mrs. Evelyn Wheelock September 10, 2025
Cutler Bay, Florida age 83
“Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
— Psalm 73:23–26 ESV
Special Anniversaries
Dates for this column come from pension applications. Records are not updated unless NBUSA is notified of changes in marital status, such as the death of a spouse.
70th Anniversaries
Rev. Robert V. and Mrs. Doris Harrison . . . . . . Feb . 12 1660 Hope Valley Ln, Killeen, TX 76542-6855
Rev. Stoner F. and Mrs. Lori Smith Mar 19 4 Hopyard Rd, Stafford Springs, CT 06076-1317
65th Anniversaries
Rev. Carolyn F. and Mr. David R. Beans . . . . . . Jan . 22 PO Box 927, Weaverville, CA 96093-0927
Rev. Adrian D. and Mrs. Marilyn L. Davis . . . . . Jan . 19 3737 N College Ave Apt 126, Bethany, OK 73008-3386
Rev. Charles W. and Mrs. Judith A. Groves . . . . . Jan . 14 4377 Club Trail Ln, Grove City, OH 43123-8152
Dr. Ted R. and Mrs. Beverly J. Lee Feb 18 1380 Harold Patterson Rd, Dandridge, TN 37725-6020
Rev. Ronald F. and Mrs. Juanita Richmond Mar 4 2228 Rincon Ave, Enumclaw, WA 98022-8217
Rev. Keith A. and Mrs. Doris Sparks Feb 24 2204 Standish Ct, Port Huron, MI 48060-1842
60th Anniversaries
Rev. Larry F. and Mrs. Joyce Arbogast Feb 17 103 E Wolfe Dr, Huntington, WV 25705-2170
Rev. William J. and Mrs. Martha G. Bean Feb 19 229 Goose Creek Rd, Alexandria, TN 37012-3513
Rev. Raymond E. and Mrs. Judith A. Brunet Mar 5 766 Gleason Dr, Clarksville, TN 37042-1123
Rev. Judith K. and Mr. Larry J. England Feb 20 42 Jayhawker St, Gillette, WY 82718-8444
Rev. John P. and Mrs. Fayelene M. Hawkins Mar 19 1 Rankin St Apt 414, Rockland, ME 04841-3047
Rev. Larry K. and Mrs. N. Jolene Hucker Feb 10 711 Powell Dr, Niceville, FL 32578-2040
Rev. Eleodoro and Mrs. Zoila M. Joge . . . . . . . . . Jan . 13 5710 Tennyson St, Riverdale, MD 20737-1327
Rev. Harold M. and Mrs. Gaylia A. Johnson . . . . . Jan . 30 8602 Burt St, Omaha, NE 68114-2927
Dr. Charles E. and Rev. Barbara S. Jones . . . . . . . Mar . 31 432 Shadow Grass Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76120-1636
Rev. David L. and Mrs. Bonnie E. Lovett Feb 26 501 Cedar Crest Dr, West Des Moines, IA 50265-5150
Rev. Ray A. and Mrs. Carolyn Martin Jan 1 8171 Fountain Brook St, Middleton, ID 83644-6171
Rev. Robert K. and Mrs. Cheryl K. McFarlane Mar 18 9225 Haley Ln, Avoca, MI 48006-4126
Rev. Ray D. and Mrs. Margaret A. Moore . . . . . . Mar . 9 13 Spring Forest Ct, Greenville, SC 29615-2206
Rev. Richard A. and Mrs. Loretta Moore . . . . . . . Feb . 26 65 Pear Tree Ln, Colora, MD 21917-1308
Rev. LeRoy R. and Mrs. Susan L. Murray Feb 20 11941 N 69th Ave, Peoria, AZ 85345-8978
Dr. Jonathan and Rev. Magdalia Salgado Jan 4 6397 Radio Dr, San Diego, CA 92114-2017
Rev. Phillip W. and Mrs. Letricia A. Williford Mar 26 2 Scotsmeadow St, Gainesville, TX 76240-5643
55th Anniversaries
Rev. Hugo M. and Mrs. Cecilia Aldana Mar 5 14801 Tupper St, Panorama City, CA 91402-1223
Rev. Larry V. and Mrs. Kathleen S. Betz Feb 12 2250 W Cadmus Rd, Adrian, MI 49221-4120
Rev. Cheryl L. and Mr. Neil B. Colby Mar 21 460 NE Rose Ridge Dr, Winston, OR 97496-6602
Rev. Ronald J. and Mrs. Jo E. Diciolla Feb 6 115 N Bolton St, Romney, WV 26757-1612
Rev. William N. and Mrs. Melody Eikenbary . . . Mar . 27 308 N 4th St, Selah, WA 98942-1106
Rev. Lauloa B. and Mrs. Latasi N. Fereti . . . . . Mar . 27 91-717 Kilipoe St, Ewa Beach, HI 96706-2722
Rev. Mervyn N. and Mrs. Linda J. Friberg Mar 20 12585 S Carriage Hill Way, Nampa, ID 83686-5752
Rev. David O. and Mrs. Linda B. Grubbs Mar 12 116 Thomas Spooner Rd, Attapulgus, GA 39815-2248
Rev. John J. and Mrs. Brenda D. Hancock Feb 6 102 Wolf Ridge Ct, Hot Springs, AR 71913-7577
Rev. James W. and Mrs. Teressa Harris Mar 12 492 Harris Holw, Argillite, KY 41121-8574
Rev. Daniel L. and Mrs. Irene L. Justice . . . . . Jan . 23 2693 Warrior Ct, Washington Court House, OH 43160-9419
Rev. Darrell B. and Mrs. Wanda J. Karnes . . . . Jan . 16 212 W Frazier Ave, Columbia, KY 42728-1662
Rev. Cyril G. and Mrs. Linda E. Page Mar 13 2033 Stanhope St, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236-1905
Rev. Raymond L. and Mrs. Maggie Parker Jan 22 308 Bluefield Ln, Lebanon, TN 37087-4875
Rev. S. T. and Mrs. Rose W. Taylor Feb 5 10335 SE 801 Rd, Collins, MO 64738-6102
Rev. Rick C. and Mrs. Julia B. Thomason . . . . . Feb . 26 909 E Highway 199, Springtown, TX 76082-6039
Rev. Kenneth M. and Mrs. Dianne B. Turner . . . . Jan . 1 32 Douglas Dr, East Bridgewater, MA 02333-2548
Rev. Anthony L. and Mrs. Sylvia White . . . . . . Jan . 10 705 Lake Geneva Dr, Saint Augustine, FL 32092-1012
Rev. George E. and Mrs. Brenda K. Yarberry Mar 4 8000 Olive Hill Dr, Mabelvale, AR 72103-3510
50th Anniversaries
Rev. Michael and Mrs. Teresa Bell . . . . . . . . . . Jan . 16 233 E Monroe Ave, Chandler, IN 47610-9747
Rev. Samuel A. and Mrs. Karen F. Boyd . . . . . . Feb . 14
726 Coweta Falls Rd, Harrison, AR 72601-4543
Rev. Ricky D. and Mrs. Julie Ann Calvert . . . . . . Jan . 3 1217 Lariat Cir, Dalhart, TX 79022-4609
Rev. Fidel and Mrs. Bernanda G. Campos Feb 28 1036 SW 2nd St # 3, Miami, FL 33130-1002
Rev. John D. and Mrs. Mary A. Cannon Jan 5 29 Trinity Ln, Rock Spring, GA 30739-2180
Rev. Jorge F. and Mrs. Evelyn Cifuentes Jan 28 1203 S Lakes End Dr Apt E2, Fort Pierce, FL 34982-6721
Rev. Terry L. and Mrs. Marsha D. Jones . . . . . . Mar . 6 33 N Granite Falls Dr, Nampa, ID 83651-5198
Rev. James E. and Mrs. Joanna Lucas . . . . . . . . Jan . 24 109 Forry Dr, Ephrata, PA 17522-9133
Rev. Jesse A. and Mrs. Lois J. Madaffari Feb 14 940 N Stockman Rd, Skiatook, OK 74070-4029
Rev. Randy W. and Mrs. Robin R. Marshall Jan 10 17109 Indian Prairie Rd, White Pigeon, MI 49099-8772
Rev. Marcia L. and Mr. Gerald L. Nikl Mar 13 803 Wyndham Pl, Arlington, TX 76017-6464
Rev. Janet H. and Mr. Bill Ruark Jan 10 12501 Stockwell Rd, Sunbury, OH 43074-9216
Dr. Christian D. and Mrs. Margit Sarmiento . . . Mar . 19 7543 Belmont Dr., Shawnee, KS 66227-2180
Rev. Gerald R. and Mrs. Linda Scroggins . . . . . Mar . 27 8445 Cow Palace Rd, Peyton, CO 80831-6711
Rev. James M. and Rev. Brenda J. Tyus Mar 30 PO Box 944, Selma, AL 36702-0944
Rev. Richard T. and Mrs. Donna Underwood Feb 14 2602 York Rd, Nolensville, TN 37135-9789
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil. For the yoke of his burden, and the staff for his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire.
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.
