Thoughts from DS Olivia

Last month, I reminded you of my dream for us to be Repair Shop people. I want us to live as citizens of the Kingdom of God, who are apprenticed to Jesus, guided by Scripture, repaired to be repairers, and craftspeople of the New Creation. This month, I'm highlighting an NDI initiative on Peace Making. It fits beautifully with this idea and gives us a tangible way to embody this kind of Christian living. Below is a reflection from Pastor Elizabeth Crisculolo, who is trained in mediation and restorative practices. Take her up on the offer to help! These are challenging times, and support in making peace is a gift that can help us all to be faithful followers of Jesus!

The Peace Initiative: Equipping Leaders for Conflict and Restoration

Conflict can feel suffocating, confusing, and isolating. In those moments, it may seem like no one is truly listening or understanding, and the only way forward is with the help of a third party. As Christ-followers, we are called to be light in the darkness. We are to live as peacemakers who create safety, openness, and care. The Church should be the place people turn when conflict feels overwhelming.

Recently, I was invited to mediate a situation in the community. Though the individuals were not connected to our church, it was church members who pointed them my way. What a privilege it was to step into that sacred space with them; to listen, to guide, and to weave in restorative practices that brought healing. This is the work the Church is called to: joining God’s great work of restoration by helping families and communities experience peace and reconciliation.

In my role as Director of the district Peace Initiative, I want to come alongside pastors and lay leaders to strengthen their capacity for conflict transformation. Whether through one-on-one conflict coaching or small-group conversations, I would love to connect and equip you with tools that can help you navigate conflict well. Together, we can continue the work of being peacemakers who reflect the image of God.

Jesus said in Matthew 5:9, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God." May we be known as children of the One who has made peace with us as we make peace with others!

May it be so,

Pastor Olivia

October is Pastor Appreciation Month!

Check out this article from Nazarene News to find out more. We want to bless the men and women who serve us so well! Be sure to honor them in a special way. There are ideas in the article linked above and the National Association of Evangelicals has compiled a list of creative ways to bless your Pastor too.

Thank you, Pastors, for all you do!

Pastors' Prayer Zoom

Advent Resource for Pastors

Nazarene Missions Team

District Discipleship

District Youth Ministry (NYI)

Brooktondale Camp

More Resources for Pastors & Churches

Vision Partners offers coaching, workshops, and processes to help you confidently lead in God’s plan.

AFLAC

AFLAC is a wonderful way to be supported by your church. The District is offering a one-time benefit when you sign up to help offset the cost. We are encouraging every church to find a way to pay for this emergency insurance policy for you. When a cancer diagnosis comes, or a medical emergency no one expected occurs, finances that are already tight can become tighter. This plan is a great way to add a layer of care for those who care so much for you! While this is not a district-sponsored policy, we are making it available to the district. Check out the information below about how this will work!

Spiritual Direction

Spiritual Direction offers a sacred space to listen for God’s direction in your unfolding life. It’s not about fixing or performing—it’s about being companioned with prayerful insight, care, and deep respect for the mystery of your journey. If you’re longing for real conversation, rest, clarity, or simply a place to be fully human before God, this is a gentle invitation to try Spiritual Direction. Visit www.shaneash.com for scheduling, or for more information. 

Spiritual Direction Directory

The district will cover spiritual direction for any licensed or ordained pastors on the district with Shane Ash (or up to 3 sessions with a director from the directory below).

If you have any questions, email the district office at: office@upstatedistrict.org. 

Retreat Homes Around the District:

The Springwater Retreat House is a place to pray and listen to the still quiet voice of the Lord. Pastors face multiple challenges and carry the burdens of many people. Here is a place where they can obey Jesus’ words and go away with Him to a quiet place to rest. For free.

The Wilmington Retreat Home is a three bedroom home with a fully-applianced kitchen, dining and living room. This is an excellent place for a prayer or sermon planning retreat.