Below is an article written over thirty years ago by one of New Life’s first pastors, Bill Hartseil. This article gives Bill’s thoughts and plans for starting the Jesus Barn ministry. At the time, what Bill and his wife Joan, were doing was revolutionary – out ahead of what most churches were doing in the area. Years later they brought that same heart of effective outreach to the leadership of New Life.

There are two reasons for asking you to read this in connection with our new worship services:

First, to illustrate the heritage of New Life. Because of their love for people who didn’t know Jesus, Bill and Joan were willing to change and adapt new methods to be effective in touching people’s lives. They saw many people who weren’t being reached by the typical ministries of the surrounding churches and were therefore willing to take risks to reach them. New Life has within her DNA this same willingness to try new ideas so more people can become disciples.

And secondly, to inspire us with the same infectious love for Jesus and for people that Bill Hartseil had. When loving Jesus and loving people become the prime motivators in our lives then we will be willing to take risks, put up with inconvenience, and endure the discomfort that new changes bring – Bob See

“The Barn” By Pastor Bill Hartseil

For the past few years, my wife and I have been burdened to somehow, reach the young people with the Living Savior, Jesus Christ. Praying for the Lord to use us in reaching them. A few months ago, the Holy Spirit led us to an unused barn and knew this was the place! We asked Him for the barn and He gave it to us and since that time He has provided our every need. The Barn and property are in a trust for our use. Young people came from every direction and we started praying for a new roof, wall paneling, kitchen, bathrooms, fireplace, piano, and a new basketball floor in the loft. Praise the Lord! As of this writing, He has provided everything! Including 15 acres for expansion. We are now praying for another 25 acres for a Christian Youth Ranch, and if it is part of His plan He will provide it for us.

We are planning activities Monday through Saturday, praying to reach every age group, including adults. Saturday night will be a date night with movies, refreshments and devotions. I believe when we are in full strength, we’ll be able to reach 500 young people weekly with bible study, prayer and counseling.

I have found working with teenagers, college students, young adults that they are—in rebellion: not against God-Jesus Christ, but against the caricature of the church, the way it is portrayed in the world. Stalemated on man-made doctrine, legal regulations, and stressed rules but not loving. A going through the motions, but never really getting involved. For this reason we simply introduce them to Jesus Christ, who satisfies and gives them the freedom and peace they are looking for as He comes into their lives to live with the Holy Spirit and fire. Then sending them back into their churches on fire with the Holy Spirit; into the world to witness.

The young people are from all denominations and religions, from Catholics, Protestant, Pentecostals, to Atheists. At one meeting 235 teenagers were present, which was about 100 more than we could hold. Our average meetings are now around 65 and at our Thanksgiving meeting 50% made professions and dedications. Again, we praise the Lord.

A statement was made this past year, “Conservative in Doctrine, Liberal in Methods.” How true this is in reaching our young people with the Living Savior, Jesus Christ. They are searching for a meaning to life and pray they will find it in “The Barn” by being introduced to a live, exciting God, Jesus Christ, who has the power to transform their lives and to give the peace and victory through the Holy Spirit. This is done by special Christian music with a message played to their beat and devotions telling it Like It Is in their language, but always with His love.

Please pray for us as we need teachers and would pray also for the co-operation of all churches in reaching the young people for Jesus in these last days.