Mosaic Mennonites

Missional - Intercultural - Formational

Hendy Matahelemual

Hope for the Future: Celebrating 30 Years of Damascus Road

by

by Hendy Matahelemual

The chill of winter’s last stroll through the Midwest did not dim the hope sparked by leaders of color and others invited to participate in Mennonite Church USA’s Hope for the Future Conference at Goshen College in Indiana on Feb. 28-Mar. 2, 2025.  

This year, the theme was Celebrating 30 Years of Damascus Road Antiracism Process, now known as Roots of Justice. Around 130 people (including six Mosaic leaders) gathered for the event, which began with an evening reception at a local inn. The following day included worship and various sessions. I was honored and grateful to be part of a panel featuring trainers from Damascus Road/Roots of Justice. 

Hendy Matahelemual on a panel with other current and former Roots of Justice trainers. Photo by Juan Moya, Anabaptist World.

Antiracism is a key element of Mosaic Conference’s intercultural priority. Before we can truly gather as equals in the eyes of the Lord—as described in Revelation 7:9—we must address the elephant in the room: the sin of racism. This sin has divided humanity into two groups—the oppressed and the oppressor, the inferior and the superior, the dominant and the submissive—based on ethnicity, skin color, and race. 

Dr. Regina Shands Stoltzfus, the first keynote speaker of the day, reminded us to acknowledge antiracism work in the past and present as we prepare for the future. She is the co-author of Been in the Struggle with Dr. Tobin Miller Shearer. As part of an intercultural book study in 2023, Mosaic Conference invited both authors to lead a webinar discussion on it.  

Hendy Matahelemual (left) and Mosaic Conference Board Member Maati Yvonne (fourth from left) with the other past and current Roots of Justice trainers present at the Conference. Photo by Juan Moya, Anabaptist World.

I joined a breakout session on multiracial, cross-ethnic, and transracial identities in the church. This is where I realized that most of us, including myself, carry a mix of identities. Simply acknowledging it—and being acknowledged—was a liberating experience and a spiritual practice.  

The second day ended with a gala dinner where, for the first time, I heard the folk song Arirang performed by Korean brothers and sisters. The song symbolizes the sorrow and hope of the Korean people, longing for a unified Korea. The gala was a space for honoring our elders and celebrating, and yes, there was all sorts of dancing involved. 

Rev. Suzette Shreffler shared her story on the last day of the conference. As a Native American descendant, she grew up as a product of the Indian boarding school system, which forced her family to assimilate into Euro-American culture with the goal of erasing Indigenous languages, traditions, and identities. 

She experienced generational trauma but, thankfully, found peace in Jesus through her ministry at the local Mennonite Church. She became the first Northern Cheyenne woman credentialed by Central Plains Mennonite Conference. Her story of resilience is a beacon of hope for the future, and I believe there are many more stories yet to be told. 

Mosaic Mennonite Conference Executive Committee Board Member Maati Yvonne was one of seven elders honored at the 12th annual Hope for the Future celebration. Photo by Juan Moya, Anabaptist World.

The event concluded on Sunday with Dr. Rev. Lerone Martin, who shared one of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s sermons, and I was amazed at how the sermon remains profoundly relevant today. 

Dr. King spoke about the three triplets of evil: racism, poverty, and violence. My hope for the future is that we can confront all of these in the way of Jesus. Our conference priorities are set to tackle these forces of evil as we become more intercultural, formational, and missional in the way of Jesus, in a world that is both broken and beautiful. 

Hendy Matahelemual

Hendy Matahelemual is the Associate Minister for Community Engagement for Mosaic Conference. Hendy Matahelemual was born and grew up in the city of Bandung, Indonesia. Hendy lives in Philadelphia with his wife Marina and their three boys, Judah, Levi and Asher.

Faithful Transitions: Reflections on Interim Ministry Training

by

by Hendy Matahelemual

During a cold, snowy week, several pastors from Mosaic Mennonite Conference and Allegheny Mennonite Conference, representing diverse backgrounds, attended the Intentional Interim Minister training in Princeton, New Jersey. 

Beth Kenneth, Consulting and Coaching Ministries Coordinator for the Center of Congregational Health leads a session on the Workplace Big 5 Assessment. 

This training was organized in collaboration with Eastern Mennonite University (EMU) Seminary and the Wake Forest Center for Congregational Health. It took place at the Erdman Center of Princeton Seminary on February 10-13. This training was funded through EMU’s Pathways for Tomorrow grant from the Lilly Endowment, Inc. 

Before the training, participants were required to complete a Workplace Big 5 Assessment questionnaire to identify their personality types. This assessment was beneficial in helping pastors better understand their personalities, strengths, and challenges, which supports them in ministering more effectively. Some of us were surprised by the traits the assessment revealed, offering new insights into ourselves and our approach to ministry. 

“Spending a week with ministry leaders in an intensive, motivated learning community is a true gift,” shared Rev. Dr. Jacob Cook. 

“This training is an example of how the (EMU) seminary is working intentionally to meet the challenges of our changing context by growing our capacity to collaborate with conferences, local churches, and other faith-based organizations to open spaces for ministry leaders to learn and experiment with practical toolkits.”

The keynote speaker for this training was Rev. Dr. Marvin L. Morgan, who has extensive experience as a pastor and an intentional interim minister. His academic background and ministry experience were invaluable to all of us. 

Before this training, I was not very familiar with the concept of interim ministry. Through the experience, I realized how crucial it is for every leader to be prepared during transitions. Interim ministers can serve as a vital bridge, helping congregations find the right leader for their next chapter. I became a pastor at my current congregation thanks to the success of several interim pastors before me. They helped the congregation embrace and appreciate its heritage while looking toward the future. 

Rev. Dr. Marvin L. Morgan, left, leads one of the sessions. Photo by Jaye Lindo.

“The training helped me to think through what congregations and organizations need in times of transition—how we help congregations celebrate their past and look toward the future with joy,” shared Amy Yoder McGloughlin, executive minister for Allegheny Mennonite Conference. 

Charlene Smalls, chair of the Mosaic Conference Faith and Life Committee and pastor of Ripple Church (Allentown, PA), shared, “I was inspired by how comprehensive the training was, covering the human and administrative aspects of serving as an interim pastor. I was further inspired by my peers—a diverse group united in their deep commitment to pastoral service.” 

Many of us were encouraged by the idea that interim ministry is also an opportunity for seasoned pastors to give back in new ways. 

From left to right Hendy Matahelemual, Jaye Lindo, Ben Wideman, Amy Yoder McGloughlin, Jason Kuniholm, Jenifer Eriksen Morales, Christina Manero, Jacob Cook, Charlene Smalls, Pavel Gailans, and Marvin L. Morgan. 

“What I found most inspiring was that intentional interim ministry can be a meaningful way for retiring pastors to give back,” reflected Jaye Lindo, pastor of 7 Ways Home Fellowship (Bowie, MD) and Hospitality Coordinator for Mosaic Conference. “Their experience and knowledge can guide a congregation through the challenging process of searching for a new pastor. This training provides hands-on tools for pastors to learn more about themselves.” 

Beyond the technical and strategic aspects of interim ministry, many of us were moved by the spiritual dimension of this calling. Interim pastors step into congregations at pivotal moments, providing pastoral care, discernment, and guidance as communities navigate change. 

 “The Body of Christ has many needs. Intentional interim pastors are called to be chaplain-shepherds who meet God’s people in their time of crisis,” added Pavel Gailans, interim minister for Homestead (FL) Mennonite. “It is a time to listen, pray, seek guidance from the Holy Spirit, and lead with love and compassion. This training helped me dive deeper into God’s heart for God’s people.” 

This training reminded us that transitions are a vital part of God’s work in the Church. The story of Moses and Joshua illustrates this well—Moses led the Israelites through the wilderness, but Joshua carried them into the Promised Land. God assured Joshua, “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Joshua 1:5). As we return to our ministries, we do so with trust that God is present in every transition, guiding us with wisdom and grace. 

Hendy Matahelemual

Hendy Matahelemual is the Associate Minister for Community Engagement for Mosaic Conference. Hendy Matahelemual was born and grew up in the city of Bandung, Indonesia. Hendy lives in Philadelphia with his wife Marina and their three boys, Judah, Levi and Asher.

Beloved Community

by

by Hendy Matahelemual

ChiChi Oguekwe, Program Coordinator for MCC East Coast hosted the Service Day event.

The Kingdom Builders Network of Philadelphia and Mennonite Central Committee East Coast collaborated for a Service Day event on Monday, January 20, 2025, to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, with the theme “Restoring Hope and Dignity.” 

Despite the cold weather and heavy snow in Philadelphia, the enthusiasm of volunteers from all parts of the city and its suburbs remained high. There were around 100 attendees, including representatives from at least five Mosaic Conference congregations. 

Volunteers took turns creating a mosaic painting of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., guided by mural artist John Lewis.

One of the traditions during this Service Day is preparing 500 care packages containing daily personal care items such as soap, shampoo, towels, and more, to be shared with persons who are incarcerated. 

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. envisioned a “Beloved Community,” where, as followers of Jesus, we strive to implement this vision beyond mere rhetoric. A panel discussion invited experts working with immigrant communities to inspire and collaborate on finding solutions to make this Beloved Community a reality. 

The volunteers prepared care kits containing daily personal care items to be sent to prisons.
The volunteers prepared care kits containing daily personal care items to be sent to prisons.
Volunteers carried boxes filled with care kits to the van to be delivered to prisons.

The inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States, coinciding with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, became a striking irony. Dr. King was known for advocating justice, equality, and inclusion, whereas Trump’s policies, such as mass deportation and immigration restrictions, are often seen as contrary to these values. 

Amid the threat of deportations, daily life continues, serving as a reminder that the “Beloved Community” begins with our care for others, especially those in need. The growing immigrant population in Philadelphia has enriched the city but also revealed underlying tensions and misunderstandings. 

A panel discussion with speakers (left to right: Pastor Hendy Matahelemual [moderator], Hani White [Board of Indonesian Diaspora Philadelphia], Thoai Nguyen [CEO of SEAMAAC], and Blanca Pacheco [Co-Director of New Sanctuary Movement Philadelphia]) discussing how to implement the Beloved Community amidst the challenges immigrants face today.

In response to these challenges, Thoai Nguyen, CEO of SEAMAAC (Southeast Asian Mutual Assistance Association Coalition), stated that if we all took the time to understand our origins and ancestry, we would be more sensitive to differences in others.This understanding is the first step toward building a compassionate community. 

Blanca Pacheco, Co-Director of the Sanctuary Movement of Philadelphia, also urged for political pressure through peaceful rallies or demonstrations to ensure that the city government upholds its status as a “sanctuary city.” 

The call to support local immigrant-owned businesses was also mentioned. “Instead of buying desserts from Walmart or Costco, I prefer to buy from local vendors. It may be a bit inconvenient, but it supports small businesses owned by immigrants,” said Hani White, a board member of the Indonesian Diaspora in Philadelphia, during the panel discussion. 

“Love one another as I have loved you,” (John 13:34) reminds us that love for one another is the foundation of the community we should build together. 

While the weather on the East Coast is freezing, there are forest fires and destruction in the northern part of Los Angeles. Our solidarity must cross regional boundaries and societal layers, from undocumented immigrants to the wealthy, in hopes of achieving social justice within this Beloved Community. 

When American Exceptionalism rhetoric is at play, as a Beloved Community, we must consciously be aware of what is happening in other parts of the world. One way to do this is by learning, reading, traveling to other parts of the world, and gaining knowledge. Only then can we avoid being self-centered and begin acting locally while thinking globally. 

May the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to create the Beloved Community come true in the coming years. This is our responsibility as followers of Jesus. May God’s peace be with us all. 

Hendy Matahelemual

Hendy Matahelemual is the Associate Minister for Community Engagement for Mosaic Conference. Hendy Matahelemual was born and grew up in the city of Bandung, Indonesia. Hendy lives in Philadelphia with his wife Marina and their three boys, Judah, Levi and Asher.

Mosaic Mennonite Conference Support for the Indonesian Church Amid Immigration Uncertainty

by

by Hendy Matahelemual

In critical moments of history, faith communities often become a refuge for those who feel threatened and marginalized. This was also the case the day after Donald Trump’s victory announcement as President of the United States, when tension and concern swept over the immigrant community, including the Indonesian church members in South Philadelphia. Trump’s statements during his campaign about mass deportations created real anxiety within this vulnerable community. 

Pastor Danilo Sanchez (center) delivers support and prayer to the Indonesian immigrant community at Indonesian Light Church, Philadelphia.

Amid this situation, Mosaic Mennonite Conference demonstrated its commitment to the principles of love, justice, and solidarity through Pastor Danilo Sanchez’s visit to three Indonesian churches in South Philadelphia: Indonesian Light, Philadelphia Praise Center, and Nations Worship Center. This presence was not just a formality but a tangible symbol of moral, spiritual, and emotional support for the community facing immense pressure. 

The Power of Presence: Sanchez Brings a Message of Hope 

During his visit, Sanchez delivered a message full of hope and strength, reminding the congregation of the importance of leaning on God during difficult times. He quoted Psalm 46:1-2 NIV, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” This verse served as a foundation to remind the community that, despite the external threats, God remains faithful in protecting and safeguarding his people. 

This message was significant both spiritually and psychologically. As fear is real for many community members, having a faith leader present and voicing support brought much-needed reassurance. Sanchez also encouraged the community to stay united, rely on the power of prayer, and stand firm in the face of uncertainty. 

Mosaic Conference understands that faith is not just about a relationship with God, but also a relationship with one another. During Sanchez’s visit, the conference reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Indonesian congregations in South Philadelphia, which are an integral part of the immigrant community. With its Mennonite background, rich in the history of peace and social justice, this support reflects the core values of the Conference: loving one’s neighbor, protecting the vulnerable, and advocating for justice. 

In addition to the spiritual message, the Conference provided practical support, such as information about immigrant rights and access to legal assistance if needed. This approach demonstrated how faith can be translated into concrete actions that help individuals and communities persevere in difficult times. 

Pastor Danilo Sanchez (center back) with the youth group at Nations Worship Center

Relying on God and Standing Firm 

Faith communities play a crucial role in providing strength and hope, especially in the face of threats, as experienced by these Indonesian churches. In this situation, the congregation is encouraged to remember God’s promise in Isaiah 41:10 NIV, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” This message serves as a reminder that God will never abandon his people, even in their darkest moments. 

Through Sanchez’s visit and the support of the Conference, the church community in South Philadelphia is reminded that they are not alone. Solidarity, prayer, and love become the main sources of strength to move forward, remain firm, and courageously face whatever may come. In God’s love, they find the strength to continue hoping, staying united, and being a light to the world. 

Hendy Matahelemual

Hendy Matahelemual is the Associate Minister for Community Engagement for Mosaic Conference. Hendy Matahelemual was born and grew up in the city of Bandung, Indonesia. Hendy lives in Philadelphia with his wife Marina and their three boys, Judah, Levi and Asher.

Reflecting on Advent and the Light We Bring 

by

by Hendy Matahelemual

This reflection was originally posted on the MC USA Menno Snapshots blog. It is republished with permission from MC USA.  

As I reflect on the season of Advent, I think about what is meaningful for my family and church. We don’t really celebrate Advent as much as I remember when I was a kid. I remember growing up in a Catholic tradition, and during every Sunday Mass during Advent, the pastors would light a candle. There were four candles — one for each of the four weeks before Christmas, representing joy, peace, hope and love. But today, our preparation takes a different form. 

Today, while no physical candle is lit, our hearts and minds are certainly ignited with the spirit of preparation for Christmas. At the beginning of November, our church Christmas committee began working, the choir started their practices early, and the drama ministry came up with a script that aligns with this year’s Christmas theme. This Sunday, we put up our Christmas tree at the church and began decorating. It’s a festive time, in which most of our congregation participates. There are a few weeks ahead with much to prepare, but we are excited. 

We want to provide the best service to God, our congregation, and the guests who attend our Christmas service. It is customary among Indonesian churches to invite guests from other churches to our Christmas event, as well as friends and colleagues who have never been to our church before. In past years, our church attendance during Christmas has typically doubled. 

This is a wonderful opportunity for outreach to unchurched individuals. Many Christians who are not actively connected to a church still feel a strong inclination to attend a Christmas celebration. This season provides a unique chance to engage with them, as the festive atmosphere and message of hope draw them in, creating a meaningful moment to reconnect with faith and community. 

Advent, from the Latin “adventus,” meaning “coming” or “arrival,” is translated from the Greek “parousia” and reflects both Christ’s first coming in Bethlehem and his anticipated Second Coming in glory. 

I often imagine, living in the dark world we face today, that if Jesus were in a plane needing to land, our role would be to light the runway with joy and celebration. We are called to illuminate the path with sacrificial love, burning brightly in our service to others, so that his arrival is met with the warmth and welcome of our hearts. 

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” 

— Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV) 

As we prepare for Christmas, Advent reminds us that it’s not just about waiting but actively getting ready in our hearts and communities. Whether through lighting candles or through the work of our church teams, we are called to share Christ’s light in a dark world. This season gives us a special chance to welcome others into the hope, joy and love of Christmas. Let us shine brightly, not only through our preparations but in how we live, as we await Christ’s arrival. May our actions reflect his love and draw others to him during this special time. 

Hendy Matahelemual

Hendy Matahelemual is the Associate Minister for Community Engagement for Mosaic Conference. Hendy Matahelemual was born and grew up in the city of Bandung, Indonesia. Hendy lives in Philadelphia with his wife Marina and their three boys, Judah, Levi and Asher.

May 2024 Faith and Life Gathering: The Foundation of the Church 

by

by Charlene Smalls, Noel Santiago and Hendy Matahelemual

The Faith and Life Commission of Mosaic Conference provides space for pastors and credentialed leaders to build ties of friendship and support. We convene quarterly to discuss scripture and listen to how we might interpret and apply those scriptures. We pray for each other and our congregations in light of our reflections. We seek to develop relationships of mutual trust and accountability, deepening our convictions and the involvement we have in the congregations we lead. (based on the reflections of Lindy Backues [Philadelphia Praise Center]) 

Captions: Participants gather virtually for the May Faith and Life Gathering. Photo by Hendy Matahelemual.
Participants gather at Wellspring Church of Skippack (PA). Photo by Noel Santiago. 

Gathering online one day and in person the next, credentialed leaders from around Mosaic gathered to read, reflect, share, and pray for each other during the May 2024 Faith and Life Gathering.  

The theme for this gathering’s focus was the Foundation of the Church. Using 1 Corinthians 3:9-11, three questions opened the conversation: 

  1. Building is a process. Building communities, relationships, and the Kingdom of God here on earth requires work. What can we hold on to and what can we release so that together we strengthen the foundation? (One waters, one plants, God gives the increase). 
  2. How are we building the church or laying the foundation in the context of our priorities – Formational, Missional, and Intercultural? 
  3. What partnering has helped deepen and strengthened you and your ministry? 

A sampling of what participants shared included: 

  • How do we move on and make peace with the people that have not returned to our congregations, after attempts to reach out and embrace what is new?  
  • A recognition that if we cannot talk to one another, how can we talk to or share Good News with others? 
  • Always bring the process of building back to Jesus. 
  • How well do we understand one another’s context, recognizing the differences within the Mosaic Conference? 
  • Having a clear articulation of who we are and not allowing our political views to interfere with Kingdom work, which can pose a danger to the strength of the building.  
  • The importance of being rooted in our gifts and learning from each other, staying humble despite our differences, and remaining open to transformation. 
  • Heartfelt, deep sharing and praying 

While those gathered were small in numbers, the wisdom, care, sharing, and prayers abounded. May God continue to help us build the church on the foundation of Jesus! 

Charlene Smalls

Charlene Smalls is co-pastor of Ripple in Allentown, PA.

Noel Santiago

Noel Santiago is the Leadership Minister for Missional Transformation for Mosaic Conference.

Hendy Matahelemual

Hendy Matahelemual is the Associate Minister for Community Engagement for Mosaic Conference.

Journey (to the West)

by

by Hendy Matahelemual

Every person from Indonesia is familiar with the 16th century novel from the Ming Dynasty in China, Journey to the West, which features four main characters: Monk Tong, Sun Go Kong, Tie Pat Kai, and Sam Cheng. (Translated into English by Arthur Waley in 1942 as Monkey: A Folk-Tale of China). 

The novel tells the journey of the four characters on a mission to retrieve the holy scriptures in the West, enduring 14 cold summers and facing 81 disturbances from demons and monsters before reaching their destination and bringing the scriptures back to China. 

Many do not know that this story was inspired by the real journey of a Chinese monk named Xuanzang who, from 629-645 AD, went to India and successfully returned to China bringing back 657 texts of holy scriptures. Although he managed to translate only 75 of the 657 texts into Mandarin, what he did translate was very significant. 

From the vantage point of this story, I want to reflect on my journey to the West, in a different context. As one of the staff serving the Indonesian Mosaic churches in southern California, traveling from Philadelphia to Los Angeles is something I often do. Each journey holds different meanings and impressions. 

Southern California, especially Los Angeles, is where most of the Indonesian diaspora in the U.S. reside, perhaps because the weather is like that in Indonesia. 

There are three Indonesian Mosaic congregations in greater Los Angeles: Imanuel International Fellowship (Colton, CA) JKI Anugerah (Pasadena, CA) and International Worship Church in (San Gabriel, CA) and a ministry partner, Ark of Christ (Anaheim, CA) who is considering membership with Mosaic. 

The desert climate of southern California appeals to me. Apart from palm trees, deserts, and mountains, visiting Mosaic communities in California also makes every journey for work feel like visiting one’s own family. 

In addition to building relationships, every visit brings a new understanding of ministry that enriches our collective understanding. There is much to learn together because mutual transformation is one of the goals of living in community. 

As a conference with a long history of Swiss-German cultural background, and a process of assimilation into Western European-American culture, the new presence of Hispanic, African, and Eastern cultures, each with their own etiquette, can pose challenges. 

However, our shared commitment of faith in Jesus, life in the community, and efforts for peace make our journey more beautiful. 

I am reminded of the quote, “If you want to walk fast, walk alone, but if you want to walk far, walk together.” And also of the story of two of Jesus’ disciples on their way to Emmaus. As they covered seven miles walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus, Jesus approached them and walked with them. 

They did not realize that Jesus was with them until the moment they ate together, and Jesus took the bread, blessed it, then broke it and gave it to them. (Luke 24:13-35) 

This verse reminds me of two things. First, that sometimes we are too focused on our goals that we forget to enjoy the journey and miss the presence of God in every process of our lives. 

Second, how eating together is an important part of building relationships. Even when we eat together, divine revelation can occur. This happened to the two disciples of Jesus. 

Going from one place to another in Los Angeles takes a long time. However, in my journey, I was introduced to a hymn from South Africa, “Hamba nathi” which means “Let’s walk together with Me”. 

At this opportunity, allow me to share the song: 

Come, walk with us, the journey is long. 
Share our burden, and join in the song. 
Come, uplift us, and bring us new life. 
Give us peace when the journey is done. 
The journey, the journey, the journey is long. 

In our spiritual journey, let us walk together with our brothers and sisters in faith and enjoy every process with the Lord. Because He never once leaves us or forsakes us. May the Lord bless us. 

Hendy Matahelemual

Hendy Matahelemual is the Associate Minister for Community Engagement for Mosaic Conference. Hendy Matahelemual was born and grew up in the city of Bandung, Indonesia. Hendy lives in Philadelphia with his wife Marina and their three boys, Judah, Levi and Asher.

As a Leader, I’m Tempted

by

by Hendy Matahelemual

A church asked me to preach as part of a series on the prophets. The week I was scheduled, the prophet was Jesus. When I prayed about what to say, I felt the Holy Spirit wanted me to talk about how to lead like Jesus. I was taken aback. “No, not leadership,” I thought. 

Leadership is one of the most challenging topics for me to preach about. Perhaps this is because I struggle with self-confidence. Most of the time I don’t feel like a good leader. 

Henry Nouwen’s book In the Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership, gave me encouragement. Nouwen writes that a leader is tempted to be relevant, spectacular, and powerful. In my leadership roles, I’m tempted to try to be everything to everyone. Especially in an immigrant community, the pastor’s role is not limited to preaching and leading Bible study. We are expected to be so much more: handyman, driver, interpreter, legal counsel, realtor, and 24/7 emergency and information hotline. The community might have unrealistic expectations. If we are not careful, burnout and depression are around the corner. 

When Jesus was tempted in the desert, the devil tried to get him to use his power for the wrong reasons. I think the devil uses the same tricks on leaders today. I have fallen into the “relevance” trap because I want to be recognized as a pastor who helps people. There’s an urge inside of me to be useful for my congregation, conference, and community. 

There is nothing wrong with helping meet people’s needs. But the motive must be genuine love, not a desire to impress others or fill a void in one’s own life. Meeting the world’s needs might solve an immediate problem but not an eternal one. Maybe you fixed someone’s furniture or helped resolve an asylum case. These good deeds don’t meet the deepest human need: God’s love. 

“God’s love can be manifested through personal connections,” Nouwen writes. “We live in a culture where everything is measured by results, achievements, and numbers, but there’s less emphasis on relationships and connections. As leaders, we need to be irrelevant to this culture by being vulnerable as individuals who also need love from God and care from the community.” 

The next temptation is to be spectacular. In Indonesia, I worked as a pastor at a megachurch. We had an average attendance of more than 2,000 people and about 40 staff. Every year, we baptized around 100 people. 

When I moved to the US, everything changed. I pastor a small congregation. At one point, we had fewer than ten people in our Sunday service. I had to work two or even three jobs to support my ministry. In the first three years, we baptized three people. My wife and I felt like failures. Friends back home asked why we were wasting our time and energy. They said we should return to Indonesia. 

We are glad we stayed. I learned a lot leading a small congregation. The congregation sees me as I am. I cannot hide behind the pulpit on a big stage, out of reach. Others see my vulnerability and our lives become intertwined. My congregation sees our struggles in marriage, parenting, and making ends meet. At first, this seemed like frailty. But we grew to understand it as a blessing. Others love us as we are. 

Nouwen says a leader needs the people as much as they need the leader. I’m trying to grow as a leader while being led by others, and to lead like Jesus by not giving in to temptation to be relevant, spectacular, or powerful.   

A version of this article originally appeared in Anabaptist World and is reprinted with permission.

Hendy Matahelemual

Hendy Matahelemual is the Associate Minister for Community Engagement for Mosaic Conference. Hendy Matahelemual was born and grew up in the city of Bandung, Indonesia. Hendy lives in Philadelphia with his wife Marina and their three boys, Judah, Levi and Asher.