::    W E D N E S D A Y,     A U G U S T     1 1 t h    ::

Good spiritual teaching is an extremely important key to spiritual growth. Recognizing that, we have incorporated times of spiritual teaching in addition to the teaching that occurs during our academic time. Twice every week, during our worship and devotion time, a student will share about what God is doing in their life. Students are scheduled on a rotating basis throughout the year. We have found that often times God works in all of us on the team in similar ways at the same time. We have also found that articulating what God is doing, or hearing someone else articulate it, often solidifies what God is doing. While hearing from one’s peer is valuable, it is also important to learn from the spiritual leaders in your life. Therefore, we also have specific times called chapel, once to twice a month, where a Masters Commission staff member will deliver a message or teaching to the students. While there is nearly constant interaction between the staff and students, and there is teaching and learning happening all the time, we have found that God uses these chapel times to move powerfully in students’ lives. If you are interested in growing closer to God through direct discipleship and mentoring, Apply Online for Masters Commission.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     A U G U S T     4 t h    ::

Each week at Masters Commission we come together, guys with guys and girls with girls for core group. During this time, we typically share about things God is doing in our lives, things we struggle with, and anything else that may be going on in our lives. Very often this a bonding time that brings the team together, but its primary focus is discipleship. Core group is key element of Masters Commission, the effects of which reach far into other areas of the program. The Bible talks about the importance of accountability, fellowship, bearing one another’s burdens and about how we sharpen one another “as iron sharpens iron.” Core group is a place for all of these things to take place. A place where there is no condemnation, but rather a group of brothers or sisters who are dedicated to seeing you grow closer to God. A place where you will be not only challenged and pushed, but also encouraged and empowered. I have both seen in others and directly experienced myself the power that comes from being open with a group of fellow Christians. To experience this kind of discipleship, Fill Out An Online Application.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     J U L Y     2 8 t h    ::

One of several things that cause Masters Commission to stand out from a traditional Bible College is our emphasis on discipleship. Our goal is not simply to see students receive a degree, but rather to see them pursue Christ. With an extensive staff that is dedicated to helping you grow deeper in your relationship to God and an environment where students encourage one another, you will be given every opportunity to grow in your relationship with God. In addition to an environment that facilitates spiritual growth, there are several specific things that we do as a part of our discipleship. Once a week we get together, guys with guys and girls with girls for “core group.” Core group provides a group of brothers or sisters that support one another, hold one another accountable, and help each other through what God is doing in their lives. Twice a week, during our worship and devotion time, students will a share a devotion, typically concerning what God is doing in their life. Also, once to twice a month we will have a chapel, where one of the staff members will give a message to the students. Through my time as a student, I came to realize the importance of being connected to a fellowship of believers and I saw how influential these times were in my spiritual growth. If you are interested in studying in an environment that encourages your spiritual growth, Apply for Masters Commission.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     J U L Y     2 1 s t    ::

The second part of our academics comes through our partnership with Chesapeake Bible College and Seminary. We are distance learning center of Chesapeake, which enables our first year students to receive a Certificate of Christian Ministry, second years an Associate’s degree, and third years graduate with a Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry after three years. All of courses are Bible based studies. Many of our classes are based right out of scripture (Old and New Testament survey, Ephesians, Acts, Galatians, Timothy, Joshua, and more), while others are topical (leadership, cults and world religions, evangelism, history of denominations, and more). One unique benefits of our academics is that they are focused in such a way as to not only increase your knowledge of the scripture, but to help you apply it to your life and grow closer to God in the process.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     J U L Y     1 4 t h    ::

Each week, students memorize several verses of scripture. They are then tested on those verses in addition to a couple of verses from the previous week. The Bible talks about hiding God’s word in our hearts and the power of the word of God. As a graduate of Masters Commission, I can attest to the incredible benefits of memorizing scripture. In addition each week first year students will analyze and right a paper on a chapter of the Bible while second year students will do the same with a character of the Bible. In addition to the obvious benefits of spending time in God’s word, this also helps students learn how to study scripture, how to use cross references and commentaries, and how to apply scripture to their lives. If you are looking for a college experience that will cause you to delve deeply in the Word of God, fill out our Online Application.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     J U L Y     7 t h    ::

One of the key parts of Masters Commission is the study of God’s Word. The academic portion of Masters Commission has proven to be incredibly influential in the spiritual growth of our students. Because of this, we have developed our academics to provide students with a meaningful and life changing education. Our academics consist of two main portions: scripture memory and analysis and our college courses through Chesapeake Bible College and Seminary. The next few updates will talk in more detail about our academics. If you are interested in earning college credits and learning through practical, hands-on ministry training, Apply for Masters Commission.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     J U N E     3 0 t h    ::

The International Missions Institute is aimed towards those who feel called to international missions. Our goal is to give them a foundation of experience that will prepare them to pursue their calling. They will have the opportunity to travel to several countries and work with a wide range of ministries of the mission field. They will experience working with small and large mission teams, as well as working more individually with people of other cultures and will gain a wide variety of mission experiences.

Additionally, we wanted to send third year International Missions Students on an extended mission trip, so that they could experience what it is like to be a missionary on a more long-term basis. This past February God opened the door for us to pursue that dream when we sent our third year missions student Teddy Tompkins to spend a month in Nairobi, Kenya! He served under the care and leadership of Bishop Nick Sikobe of New Hope Church, working at a local orphanage, teaching on youth ministry, preaching at different churches, and sharing the gospel with the Kenyan people. Each year, third year Missions Institute students will spend at least one month in a foreign country, working with a missionary or local pastor who can help them develop the skills needed for serving on the mission field. So that when they graduate, they will not only have a firm Biblical foundation, but also hands on training and experience.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    F R I D A Y,     J U N E     2 5 t h    ::

Our Children’s Ministry Institute focuses on providing our students with hands-on experience that will equip them to pursue their calling to children’s ministry. A student in the Children’s Ministry Institute will be immersed in all the different aspects of successful children’s ministry: developing children’s services, planning lessons, incorporating curriculum, and teaching children of all ages. They will be equipped with administrative skills such as data basing and working with volunteers.

Our Children’ Ministry Institute students are given responsibility in planning, organizing, and running Kid Zone, the children’s ministry at our home church. They will work directly with our children’s ministry director, who will coach and equip them to do children’s ministry.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     J U N E     1 6 t h    ::

As a way to better focus on the individual needs of our students and equip them for what God has called them to, we are currently offering ministry institutes so that our students can focus on learning the ministry that God has called them to. We currently offer youth ministry, children’s ministry, international missions, and general studies. Students in the Youth Ministry Institute will be equipped to fulfill their call to minister to youth. They will learn skills necessary for running a thriving youth ministry, including organizing special events, running weekly youth services, as well as working with volunteers and preparing and preaching sermons. Additionally, they will learn how to effectively administrate a youth ministry and how to build authentic relationships with students.

Our youth ministry students are actively involved in running at least one youth ministry. They have the opportunity to speak at different youth groups, seminars, retreats, and conventions. They plan and run events for two of our youth ministries. Each student in the Youth Ministry Institute will develop and deliver at least one youth sermon during the course of their year. And by the time they graduate their third year, they will not only have a firm Biblical foundation, but also practical, hands-on training for running a youth ministry.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     J U N E     9 t h    ::

In addition to providing a discipleship focused environment where our students can grow, one of our main focuses is preparing our students for the future God has called them to. In accomplishing this, we have developed ministry institutes for second and third year students. We currently offer four ministry institutes: Youth Ministry, Children’s Ministry, International Missions, and General Studies. These institutes have been developed to provide practical training so that students will be able to apply what they are learning through their academics. Youth Ministry students will learn things like how to prepare a youth service and work with volunteers. Children’s Ministry students will gain valuable experience with integrating curriculum, teaching children, and more. Mission students will experience on the field training, learning how to adapt and minister to other cultures, how to make arrangements for overseas travel, and countless other tools. General studies students will be equipped with experience in areas like administration and data basing that will be an asset to them wherever God calls them. Apply for Masters Commission and experience the difference that personal discipleship and hands-on training can have in your life. Keep checking back for more information on the ministry institutes; the next few updates will highlight each of the ministry institutes in more detail.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     J U N E     2 n d    ::

Summer is here and all of our students are off doing different things. Some of them return home, some of them stay in the area and work, and several are staying for the summer and interning with our youth ministries, United and Ground Zero. We wanted to give you a look into Masters Commission, so over the summer we will be posting on this page about different aspects of masters and how you as a student would be involved in them. Things like academics, discipleship, touring and dramas, our ministry practicums (youth ministry, children’s ministry, web design, graphic design, creative arts, administration, etc), the hands on ministry and so much more. For more info about Masters now, check out our About and Student Life pages, and feel free to Contact Us. If you are interested in Masters Commission, you can Apply Online. We are currently accepting applications for the 2010/2011 year.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T U E S D A Y,     M A Y     2 5 t h    ::

This past Sunday, the GZMC class of 2010 graduated! We are so proud of all of them, and excited to see all that God holds for their future. It is hard to believe that this year has already come to an end. The above video highlights just a few of the incredible opportunities God gave us to be a part of what He is doing. Congratulations to all of the graduating class on all that God has done in your life, congratulations to our graduating third years, Meaghan and Teddy, who also received their Bachelor’s degrees from Chesapeake Bible College and Seminary, and thank you to everyone who was a part of the journey. To see pictures from the graduation service, go to our Photos Page.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T H U R S D A Y,     M A Y     6 t h    ::

This weekend we had the opportunity to go Camp Hill, PA and work with Pastor Jeff of Christian Life Assembly and Frequency Youth Ministry. A team of the youth will be going to Nicaragua, and another team will be going to the Netherlands on mission trips this summer. We spent all day with them, teaching them stomp and a couple of dramas. We were so impressed by how quickly the students picked everything up, and we can’t wait to hear all that God does through their ministry in Nicaragua and the Netherlands.

From there we went to Tri county Worship Center in Bethel, PA, which is the home church of one of our second year students, Arielle Arnette. We were blessed with the opportunity to do their Sunday morning service. In the short time we were there, we built a great connection with the people there, and are excited for all that God is doing in and through the church.

Then on Sunday night we went to The Bridge Church in Hamburg, PA to do a rally as a part of a youth outreach called TONNAGE! Tonnage is one of our favorite event, centered around a bench pressing competition. The winner benched 340 lbs. and walked away with a gift card and the Golden Dumbbell. There were also other events there as well such as a basketball shoot-out, tug-of-war, and much more. We ended the evening with Stomp, a few dramas, and presented the gospel. We saw God move in such an amazing way in these student’s lives, including four of them giving their lives to Christ!

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T H U R S D A Y,     A P R I L     2 2 n d    ::

What an incredible week of Ministry in Peru. We were incredibly blessed to be able to work with Pastor Levis and Jireh church in a department of Lima called San Juan De Lurigancho. Pastor Levis used to serve as the worship leader in another church, and felt God calling him to start a church in San Juan De Lurigancho. After spending a week there, it is clear to me that God is doing incredible things in that community, and He is doing it largely through the obedience of Pastor Levis and his church. Until they move, in the near future, Pastor Levis and his wife Elisabeth travel nearly an hour, several times a week to the church. The church is roughly three months old and is meeting in a school building. We had the opportunity to spend a large portion of time with several people from the church, and it was encouraging to see their commitment to the work of God in their community. Several people spent much of the week with us, doing evangelism, children’s ministry, public school assemblies, and much more. We were blessed to serve alongside them in ministry.

Throughout the week, we went throughout the neighborhood doing all kinds of ministry and all the while sharing with the people about Jireh church. During the course of the week, we did 4 different school assemblies (we were allowed to talk about Jesus in the schools), 5 one-day VBS programs, several times of door to door evangelism, street evangelism in the local market, two church services, an outreach service in the local park, and we split the team to attend the church’s three cell groups (home groups). Many of the people we talked to throughout the week were very excited to hear about Jireh church and the work that God was doing through them. There is a large catholic influence in the area, and even many of the protestant churches are plagued with legalism and bad theology concerning faith and works as necessary for salvation. Pastor Levis is working hard to share the Gospel message that we are saved by God’s grace through faith, rather than by works or going to church. It was cool to see the response of excitement in the community, including 50 adults giving their lives to Christ! Praise God for the work that He is doing in San Juan De Lurigancho.

Please be in prayer for Pastor Levis and his wife Elisabeth. Pray for strength during this time as they make a huge sacrifice by moving to the less developed area of San Juan De Lurigancho. Pray for health and safety as they are expecting their first child (whom we affectionately called Levisito or Little Levis). Pray for blessings on their ministry. And pray for the continued strength and commitment of the members of Jireh church. To see pictures from our trip, visit our Photos Page.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T U E S D A Y,     A P R I L     6 t h    ::

Last week a team of us returned from a week of mission work in the Dominican Republic. We left the Dominican Republic with experiences that we will never forget, but more than that we returned with testimonies of what God Himself did both in the Dominican people as well as in us personally. We have done mission work in the Dominican Republic in years past, but this year it was clear that God is still working in a powerful way in that country, and we are humbled to be even a small part of His work there.

We were involved in many ministry opportunities while we were there, including 7 church services in 7 different communities, children’s outreach ministry, house-to-house evangelism, and we were even featured on two Dominican Christian radio programs. It was a week packed with ministry, but it was only by God’s grace that He allowed us to faithfully serve His church and speak His word to those we encountered. And it was only by His power that what we did impacted lives.

We took a smaller team than we have in the past, including our international missions institute students who feel a call on their life to missions in the future along with several others who have a heart to serve and a love for the Dominican people. One of the most incredible things about the trip was the strength of the God-centered relationships formed over the course of the week, both between us as a team and between us and the Dominican church and their leaders. It is truly inspiring to witness the unity of the body of Christ that transcends geography, national boundaries, language, and culture.

Following are a couple of testimonies from students about what God did during the trip. Check out pictures from our trip on our Photos Page.

Teddy Tompkins: The Dominican Republic is a country we have started to learn very well from our last few years of experiences here, yet my experiences this week are proof that familiarity does not diminish the power of God working in this country. We have had opportunities this week like we have never had on any other mission we have ever done, and God has worked through these in ways like we’ve never seen. Every morning we have been going house to house in several neighborhoods where the church is working and many times we have also been able to speak at a church service in the same neighborhood where we had just ministered earlier that day. Later in the week we even had the opportunity to be a part of a Christian radio ministry that reaches a large part of the Dominican Republic.

Earlier this week we were evangelizing in the neighborhoods around the church and we met a lady named Jasmine (I don’t remember her real name, so I will call her Jasmine). We had finished presenting the Gospel to her and she asked us to pray for unity in her family. She told us about her nephew had killed himself in her back yard and her brother who had been killed in the line of duty as a security guard. As we prayed tears streaked down her face. She told us that even though she is not a believer, every time she hears the Gospel she thinks of how desperately she wants peace in her family. We encouraged her to look to God despite her difficult situation and perhaps He is using the pain in her family to bring her to peace with Him.

In the Dominican Republic I have found a country in great need of the truth of the Gospel, yet the Dominican church has shown such inspiring faith and joy in Jesus Christ, showing in itself a desire to reach their own people like I have rarely seen even in the United States. It is my prayer that God would use the ministry that we have been able to do this week to produce a lasting change in us all—that the people of the Dominican Republic would know the free gift of grace that flows from the cross, and that we as American believers would learn to truly rejoice in the Lord in all circumstances, just as the church here has so clearly displayed.

Christina Francis: When I found out that I was going to the Dominican Republic, I was so excited! I really felt like God was calling me back to the DR, and I knew that through this experience God was going to move in our team and in my life. Being back down here has been such an anointed time with Pastor Carlos, the team and most importantly God. This is our last day here in the Dominican Republic and I can look back on this week and only see the hand of God in everything that we did. There are many things God has done in me this week, but I would like to share one of the experiences that God brought to my attention. Before I left for the Dominican Republic, God had spoken to me that in all I do I need walk in His obedience, and I found that saying this is easy, but doing it is hard. God has been speaking to me a lot about walking in His ways and trusting in Him, even when I don’t fully understand and in that obedience is required.

One morning we went to a church in La Romano, it was a recently planted church that was meeting under a structure made of small poles and an old tarp. Recently a mission team came down and laid the block walls for the building, but the building was not yet finished. Even though it wasn’t finished, many gathered together despite the circumstances to worship God. It was such a beautiful sight to see the many people worshiping God no matter where they were, who was there, and no matter if there sound system wasn’t working at all! During the service we translated from English, to Spanish, to Creole and even though there were three languages, I felt the unity of Christ in that church. God is so amazing because he used all of us no matter who we were or where we were from to bring praise to Him. When we were just about done with the service the pastor of the church asked if anyone needed healing or prayer before the service was over. Many of the people came up and gathered to the front, and all of a sudden God told me, “Christina I want you to go up there right now and pray for those women.” My first thought was well, should I? I don’t even know them, but then I remembered I need to walk in God’s calling and choose to obey and trust Him, even if I’m unsure. Immediately, I grabbed a translator and made my way through the group and began to pray for one of the ladies who was really sick, and before I knew it the Holy Spirit began to guide my prayer and I ended up praying for many of the women who were there, through God’s power. I didn’t even feel myself being used, but rather, God was doing all the work. He chose to use me to bring praise to Him because I was obedient to Him. And I realized that day that God want all of me, He has begun so much in me, but He wants so much more. I realized being down here that I need God so much, despite who I am and the mistakes I have made, I need Him. And being down here has really challenged me to go after God even more. I know this is just the beginning of what God is doing, and I’m ready for it!

::    T H U R S D A Y,     M A R C H     1 8 t h    ::

This Monday, a team of 8 of us leave for Hato Mayor, Dominican Republic. We are very excited for all that God is going to do on this trip, as we serve Pastor Carlos and Iglesia Centro Cristiano Shalom. Please pray that God would be glorified through our time there. For those of you who attended our fundraiser this past Saturday, you heard some stories about last year’s trip to Hato Mayor as well as Teddy’s trip to Kenya, and our upcoming trip to Peru. Unfortunately, because of the power outage, we were unable to show you the pictures associated with these stories. You can, however, see these pictures along with a brief description of each one on our Photos Page. We have also posted the Video we were planning on showing on our Youtube page. God Provided tremendously through our fundraiser, however, there is still a need. If you are interested in supporting our overseas mission work, please contact Christine@gzmconline.com or call 610.869.7332.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T H U R S D A Y,     M A R C H     1 1 t h    ::

Coming up in just a couple of weeks is one of our international mission trips to Hato Mayor, Dominican Republic, followed quickly by our international trip to Lima Peru. This will be our second time in Hato Mayor, where we will once again have the privilege of working with Pastor Carlos and the Centro Christiano Shalom church. We worked closely with Pastor Carlos last year in reaching out to the community through church services, construction projects, and door to door evangelism. The evangelism was incredible, as it provided us with the opportunity to actually get to know the people of the community and share the life-changing message of the gospel with them. We were able to be a part of God bringing many people unto Himself, as well as the encouragement of many who were already believers. As I write this, I am recalling many of the people that I talked with, all that God did in their lives, and how God used them to impact my life. Needless to say, we are very excited to be able to return to Hato Mayor and see some of these people again and connect with even more people there.

This will be our first time visiting Peru, where we will be working with Jeff Hart and Child Reach Ministries. We are very excited about this trip and the opportunity to connect with the people of Peru. We will be working with a church that was planted about a year ago just northeast of Lima. We will be helping them to reach out into the community with the gospel of Christ. We will be holding outreach services in the local park, doing services in local schools, going door to door sharing the gospel and praying with people, and much more. I can’t wait to see all that God is going to do in us and through us in Peru.

This Saturday, we have an incredible opportunity for you to get involved with our mission trips to Peru and the Dominican Republic. We will be hosting our second annual I Dolce D’Italia, free Italian Dessert night. The night will include free coffee, desserts and fellowship. There will also be a marketplace area with items from local vendors available for purchase. The evening will conclude with a service featuring STOMP and dramas from the Masters Commission Students and highlighting this year’s mission trips. A free will offering will be taken. All proceeds go directly to our international missions efforts. I Dolce D’Italia will be held at the Christian Life Center, 125 Saginaw RD, Lincoln University, PA 19352 from 7-9pm. For more information, contact Christine@gzmconline.com or call 610.869.7332.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T H U R S D A Y,     M A R C H     4 t h    ::

Here’s a short video highlighting just a few of the things students at Ground Zero Masters Commission have the opportunity to be a part of. Including, youth rallies, mission trips, youth conventions, youth ministry, outreaches, serving in soup kitchens, taking accredited Bible college course, and much more. To learn more about Masters Commission, read through our updates on this page, check out our About Us page, or visit our Youtube page. If you are interested in Masters Commission, you can fill out our Online Application.

We also have an incredible opportunity coming up for Juniors, seniors and Graduates. On Friday, March 12th, we will be hosting our Masters Commission Preview Day. This is an opportunity for you to come and see what a typical day at Masters Commission is like, meet the staff and students, and experience the discipleship environment that is provided. The day starts at 9am and goes till 5pm, lunch will be provided. If you are interested, please fill out a Registration Form. For more info, contact Christine@gzmconline.com or call 610.869.7332.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T U E S D A Y,     M A R C H     2 n d    ::

This past week we had the opportunity to go to Strasburg, PA, where one of our graduates in serving as director of children and youth. Compelled opened in worship, which led into the service which we had the opportunity to lead. There was a sincerity of heart at the altar that was evidence of what God was doing in the hearts of those present. It was so awesome to be a part of what God is doing in that area. That team then went to Dundalk MD on Wednesday night. This was an outreach service that included all of their Wednesday night ministries, as well as many people who do not attend church. The entire service had an incredible anointing on it, and the work of God was so evident during the altar time. There were several people who gave their lives to Jesus for the first time, as well as many other incredible stories. Praise God for an incredible week of ministry!

The other half of the team was able to go to Virginia and work with Kevin Dawson and the 7 Project once again, and as always, this was an incredible time. We love working with them as their hearts are to reach the youth of this generation with a positive message, and through the night rallies to reach them with the hope of the gospel of Jesus Christ. After the 7 Project, that team travelled to Spotsylvania and did a youth rally. This is a church that we have worked with many times, and the people there feel like family. We love working in that kind of environment, because it takes all focus off of us and it becomes a time of learning and growing together.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T H U R S D A Y,     F E B R U A R Y     2 5 t h    ::

Mark your calendars! On Saturday, March 13th we will be holding our second annual I Dolce D’Italia, Italian Dessert Night. This will be an exciting evening with free deserts and coffee, auction items from local merchants, and a service with Ground Zero Masters Commission. A free will offering will be taken and all proceeds will go to support our mission trips to Kenya, the Dominican Republic, and Peru. All adults are welcome to attend this free event (childcare will not be available). I Dolce D’Italia will be held at the Christian Life Center in New London, PA 19360 from 7-9pm, click here for Directions. If you would like more information, please contact Christine at Christine@gzmconline.com or 610.869.7332.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     F E B R U A R Y     1 7 t h    ::

We are back from our time in the Oil City/Franklin PA area. We had an incredible week out there working with Ben Dieterly of Explicit Truth Assemblies, helping with set-up/tear-down and doing stomp. We were scheduled to be at Cranberry Middle School and High School on Wednesday, but due to the weather the assembly was rescheduled for Friday.

In addition to working with Explicit Truth, we were able to do some other things while in the area, including a retreat for the Christian Life Academy, a community outreach event planned by several local churches, and a Sunday morning service at Franklin First Presbyterian. Thursday evening was the retreat for the Christian Life Academy, we did a service, followed by prayer stations, during which we really connected with the students and were able to talk about some of things God is doing in their lives. Saturday was the community outreach which included some time in the gym with inflatable games, great food, and was followed by a service. On Sunday we were able to be a part of the service at Franklin First Presbyterian. God has blessed this church with a great location in the city of Franklin, and has given the people there a desire to reach out into the community. We cannot wait to see what God is going to do through them.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T U E S D A Y,     F E B R U A R Y     1 6 t h    ::

Coming up on Friday March 12th is our second Preview Day. All high school juniors, seniors, and graduates, are invited to come out and experience what a day at Ground Zero Masters Commission is like. You will be able to talk to the staff and students, see some of our ministries that we are involved in every week, and learn stomp. The day will begin at 9am and end at 5pm. Lunch will be provided. Don’t miss this amazing time! If you are interested in coming, please fill out a Reservation Form. If you have any questions please contact Christine through email at Christine@gzmconline.com or by phone at 610.869.7332.

--Carolyn Van Ess--
First Year Student

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     F E B R U A R Y     1 0 t h    ::

We are in the middle of our 10 day school assembly tour with Explicit Truth Assemblies, and it has been an incredible time. It is really awesome to be able to work with Explicit Truth, helping with set-up/tear-down, doing stomp, dramas, and much more. The two assemblies at Oregon Middle School in New York went really well. The assembly presented the students with a positive message about things like peer pressure, self-esteem, drugs and alcohol, and bullying. The students were incredibly responsive, which speaks for the great teachers administrators and other faculty members at the school.

From NY we travelled with Explicit Truth to Oil City, PA for a week of school assemblies. Due to the weather and some other circumstances the school assemblies for Monday were cancelled, and those for today have been rescheduled. Despite that, we are looking forward to the assemblies at Cranberry High School sometime later this week, as well as those at the Christian Life Academy.

This past Sunday, while in Oil City we were able to do the Sunday morning service for Oil City Community Alliance church. We did stomp, a couple of dramas, and Pastor Mike gave a message about trusting God, even when we don’t understand His plan. God has blessed us with an incredible relationship with the people of Oil City, and it has been so great to be here and spend time with people that feel like family.



--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T U E S D A Y,     F E B R U A R Y     9 t h    ::

This past weekend we had a team in Poughkeepsie, NY helping with a Fine Arts festival, where they had the opportunity to encourage students to pursue and refine the gifts and talents that God has given them. Fine Arts Festivals are always an awesome opportunity to connect with students and help them move towards the future God has called them to. Due to the weather, they stayed longer than they expected, and were even able to spend some time with my family. It is awesome to see all that God is doing in students’ lives.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     J A N U A R Y     2 7 t h    ::

Last weekend, we had an absolutely incredible time at the rock retreat in Ocean City, MD. This is a convention we look forward to every year, and every year it is amazing. There are nearly 6000 people there all for one purpose, to get closer to God. One of the things that stands out about this convention is that it is focused around bringing the students into a closer relationship to God, and having fun just happens along the way. We had the opportunity to be heavily involved throughout the weekend, including with set up and tear down, helping with security, helping serve communion, and various other areas. We also had the opportunity to do two dramas on main stage, which were received very well by the students. It’s awesome to see how God moves through everything we do on these weekends, from checking wristbands to presenting dramas. We are so excited for what God is doing in the loves of those students.

Coming up next week, is a 10 day school assembly tour. We will be doing assemblies in public schools on Long Island as well as in western PA. We are so excited for the opportunity we have to go into the public schools and influence students in a positive way, and also be able to invite them out to a service where they will hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. Please join us in praying that God would move in the lives of the students we are going to meet.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     J A N U A R Y     2 0 t h    ::

Coming up on March 13th, is an event you won’t want to miss. We will be hosting our second annual I Dolce D’Italia, Italian Dessert Night. There will be coffee, desserts, local merchants, and a service with the Masters Commission team. Everything is free, and a free will offering will be taken to benefit this year’s Missions Trips to Peru, Kenya, and the Dominican Republic. I Dolce D’Italia will be held on Saturday, March 13th from 7-9pm at the Christian Life Center in New London, PA. All adults are welcome (child care will not be provided). For more information you can email Christine@gzmconline.com, or call 610.869.7332. Click here for Directions.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     J A N U A R Y     1 3 t h    ::

This past weekend we had the opportunity to attend the Peninsula–Delaware Conference United Methodist Youth Rally. The theme was “Pyromaniac”. There were over 4,000 students from grades 6 – 12 at the convention. It was an incredible weekend with Starfield leading worship, and Justin Lookadoo the main speaker. There were also concerts by Need To Breathe and Pillar. Throughout the weekend we ran security, helped with set-up and tear down and ran four seminars on Saturday. All of our seminars had a great attendance and were thoroughly enjoyed. Through the weekend we saw God move in many amazing ways, not only in the lives of the students that were attending, but in our lives as well. It was great getting to go back to my area and see my youth group and members of the Conference Council on Youth Ministries (CCYM) which I was a member of last year.

--Carolyn Van Ess--
First Year Student

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     J A N U A R Y     6 t h    ::

Tomorrow the team leaves for the Pen-Del UMC Youth Convention in Ocean City, MD. This is always an incredible convention, with great artist and speakers, and over 400 incredible students. We have been given the opportunity to lead three student workshops as well as one adult leader workshop over the course of the weekend. We also have the opportunity to help with security and setup/teardown. It is always cool to go back to conventions and see people that we have met before, and we are looking forward to being able to build on those relationships. I can’t wait to see what God is going to do.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T U E S D A Y,     J A N U A R Y     5 t h    ::

Well, it has been a long time since our last update, and a lot has happened since then. We hope that everyone reading this had a blessed Christmas and New Year. Last week, we had the opportunity to be a part of Pointmen's album release party at the Parkesburg Point in Parkesburg, PA. Dwayne, the director of The Point, planned the night as an outreach event for the people of the community, and beyond. There were over 100 people there from as far as Philly, spanning all ages and backgrounds. We were blessed to be able to open with stomp, and a couple of dramas, as well as to have time for some of the students to share testimonies of what God has done in their lives. We then moved into the concert portion of the night, and it was incredible to see how the artists kept everything they did God-Focused. The night concluded with a gospel message, and an invitation to accept Christ. Praise God for an incredible night of bringing glory to His name.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     D E C E M B E R     1 6 t h    ::

Yesterday we got the privilege of leading a rally for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at our local high school. We started the morning with stomp and then one of our second year students, Michelle Cavanaugh, talked about letting go of control in our lives and trusting completely in God. We then did a new skit called “trust fall” and challenged the students to go deeper in their trust in God. We are so excited to see all that God is doing in our local schools through ministries like FCA.

--Carolyn Van Ess--
First Year Student

::    M O N D A Y,     D E C E M B E R     1 4 t h    ::

This last weekend we had the honor and privilege of traveling to Manassas, Virginia to work with Christ Chapel Mountaintop, the home church of Kevin Dawson. Kevin has a great heart for God and for the young people of this generation, and Kevin has really become part of our family as we have been able to minister together so much over the last several years.

We arrived on Saturday morning and helped with their Angel Food outreach, where we served food to needy families at approximately half the supermarket price. People of all ages and walks of life came to pick up food that many would use to feed their family at Christmas. In the afternoon we partnered with some of the church members to canvas some of the local neighborhoods to invite them to their Christmas service next week. We spoke with several people who were actually new to the area and had yet to find a local church, so they were very excited to visit a church that was so active in their community. The county also has a large Hispanic population, so we were even able to use some of the Spanish we had learned on our missions to the Dominican Republic to invite some of their Hispanic neighbors.

Christ Chapel Mountaintop was a newly planted church 5 years ago, so they currently meet in a high school auditorium. We stayed for their Sunday worship service and were surprised to see the well-organized setup operation where they set up their sound system, worship band, Sunday school, nursery, and hospitality all within thirty minutes. We then had the opportunity to do one of our skits in the service. It was an inspiration to see the devotion of this church to reaching the community around them with the love of God and the message of Jesus, and I thank God for the opportunity we had to be a part of what they’re doing for His kingdom.

--Teddy Tompkins--
Third Year Student

::    S A T U R D A Y,     D E C E M B E R     1 2 t h    ::

Yesterday was our fall Masters Commission Preview Day, and it we had an incredible time. We brought in the worship band Compelled to open our day in worship. Christine then gave a message challenging each of us to “abide” in Christ, and to let Him truly BE our life. We Had a couple of Q&A sessions throughout the day, an amazing lunch, and then some drama time where those coming to learn about Masters were able to learn some of our stomp and dramas. It was an awesome day, and we pray for God’s will in all of those who came. If you are a junior, senior, or graduate and are interested in spending a day with Masters Commission and seeing what we are all about, you can register for our upcoming preview day on March 12.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    M O N D A Y,     D E C E M B E R     7 t h    ::

Pastor Mike Atkins, our director, lost his father early Saturday morning after a long battle with cancer. The viewing will be Wednesday at the Christian Life Center from 5:30p till 7:15p followed by the funeral service at 7:30p. Thank you for your continued prayers for the Atkins family during this time.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     D E C E M B E R     2 n d    ::

Next Friday, December 11th, Ground Zero Masters Commission will be having our first Preview Day of the year! If you are a junior, a senior, or a graduate you are invited to attend. You will have the opportunity to meet the staff, the students and experience first-hand the heart of Masters Commission. You will also get to see some of the ministries that we are involved in on a weekly basis. It is an experience you won’t want to miss! The day will begin at 9am and end at 5pm. Lunch will be provided. I attended Preview Day last year and I had an amazing time! Talking with the students and experiencing what GZMC was like for a day really helped me when I was deciding what to do after high school. So, if you would like to attend please fill out a Reservation Form. Hurry, time is running out! If you have any more questions or concerns please contact Christine at Christine@gzmconline.com or call 610.869.7332.

--Carolyn Van Ess--
First Year Student

::    T U E S D A Y,     N O V E M B E R     2 4 t h    ::

What an amazing weekend! God blessed us with so many opportunities this weekend, and it is so incredible to see all that he has done through us. To see students’ lives touched through the dramas on main stage, To hear about how students were going to “step up” and change their world after attending Ben’s rotation session, and through the personal relationships we were able to build with the students who were there. Praise God for all that He has done in the lives of everyone at Alive. It was truly a life changing weekend! There are some more pictures up on our photos page.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    S A T U R D A Y,     N O V E M B E R     2 1 s t    ::

We are having an amazing time at Alive. God has been moving in Powerful ways through the bands and speakers. We are excited for tonight and the message that Reggie Dabbs is going to bring. Also, tonight will be Chris Colletti Band, Reilly, and Family Force 5. There are a few pictures from the convention on our photos page.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    F R I D A Y,     N O V E M B E R     2 0 t h    ::

This weekend we are going to the Alive youth convention in Ocean City, MD with United, our home youth ministry. I am so excited to see all that God is going to do this weekend. God has opened some incredible doors of opportunity for us this weekend, as we are able to do dramas on main stage, lead one of the three sessions that all the students rotate through, as well as lead a workshop on Sunday morning. On top of all this, we get to be with and minister to our students from United and help with security and various other tasks throughout the weekend. Please be in prayer for the 3000 middle schoolers that will be at the convention. God is going to do powerful things this weekend!

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     N O V E M B E R     1 8 t h    ::

Last Thursday, one of our fellow Masters Commission programs faced a severe tragedy. Rocky Mountain Masters Commission experienced a tragic van accident and lost two of their students, with several more in intensive care. Our hearts and prayers go out to them and all of the families involved as they face all of the struggles that come with this. It is so awesome to see how Masters Commission programs, churches, and individuals have come together as a family to support Rocky Mountain MC and their families. It is often said that Masters Commission is a family, but often we don’t realize how true that is. It has also been incredible to see the faith and courage with which all of those at RMMC have faced this tragedy. Please pray with us and thousands of others around the world for Rocky Mountain Masters Commission, their church, their families, and all of those involved. For more information about what happened and how you can pray, you can watch this video posted by Rocky Mountain Masters Commission.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T U E S D A Y,     N O V E M B E R     1 7 t h    ::

This past weekend we were had the opportunity to be a part of the Appalachian youth convention, and it was amazing. We were able to be a part of virtually every aspect of the convention. Everything from set-up and tear-down, to doing dramas, to administrative task, and praying with students. God moved in so many incredible ways throughout the weekend, and we were so blessed to be a part of all that God is doing in that district. Pastor Chet, the previous youth director of the district, has moved on to be the national director of speed the light, but we were blessed to be able to work with Pastor Aaron, the new district youth director, and get to know him better. We have spent a lot of time with the Appalachian district, and it is awesome to see how God is using the relationships we have built as a way to impact the students. Being able to pray with students at the altar is so incredible when you have a connection with the student. It was such a powerful time, and God worked in our lives just as much as he worked in the lives of the students.

To see pictures from the weekend, go to our Photos Page.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     N O V E M B E R     1 1 t h    ::

Wow, we just came out of an incredible week. One team had the opportunity to go to Pittsburg and run the Ohio district Foursquare Children’s retreat. This was an incredible opportunity to minister to the kids and their parents, and God moved in incredible ways through the entire retreat. We were so blessed to be a part of what God is doing, and are amazed as we look back and see all the ways in which God has used us. That same team went from there to a youth convention in Michigan, where we had an opportunity to serve them and be involved in the convention. We were able to help them with setup/tear down, help run the evening activities, and tons of other stuff. We were able to spend a lot of time with the students, connect with them and get to know them. It was so awesome to be a part of the students lives for the weekend and share the love of God with them.

We also had another team at Kantner Assembly of God where we were able to be a part of their Thanksgiving dinner outreach, as well as their Sunday morning service. Saturday evening the church had a dinner outreach where they invite the community out to have dinner and fellowship time at the church. This is a huge outreach for the church and brings in a lot of people from all different backgrounds and religious beliefs. It was such a blessing to help them with this outreach. One of the greatest things we had the opportunity to do was serve the food at the dinner. This gave us an opportunity to tangibly show God’s love, as well as to connect with the people there. After the dinner, we were able to do a few dramas, and end with a challenge to let God deal with the struggles in all of our lives.

And on Sunday morning we were blessed with the opportunity to do the Sunday morning service. One of the things that was really awesome was that we already knew many of the people from the night before, so we were able to connect on an even deeper level. In many ways it felt like home, and we felt a lot like family. And God moved in all of us equally. It was so incredible to be a part of all that God is doing, and we were truly blessed for all the opportunities that God has given us.

And the opportunities don’t end there. Today a team left for the Appalachian district AG youth convention. We have been going to this convention for several years, and it feels like a second home to us. We can’t wait to reconnect with students, as well as meet new ones. We always have such an incredible time working with the students and leaders at this convention, and we can’t wait to see all that God is going to do this year. We also have teams going to two separate youth conventions in North Carolina, as well as one in Tennessee. God has blessed us with so many ministry opportunities and we can’t wait to see all that God is going to do.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T U E S D A Y,     N O V E M B E R     3 r d    ::

Our December 11th Preview Day is quickly approaching. Don’t miss this opportunity to spend a day with Masters Commission and experience all that it has to offer. All Juniors, Seniors, and Graduates are invited to came and experience first-hand many of the ministries that we are involved in, the day to day activities of MC, and the discipleship environment that makes Masters Commission so powerful. If you are planning on attending, make sure you fill out a Registration Form. For more information, you can email Christine@gzmconline.com or call 610.869.7332. Also, please note that our March Preview Day date has changed from Friday, March 19th to Friday, March 12th.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    F R I D A Y,     O C T O B E R     3 0 t h    ::

We just returned from an incredible two days in Virginia, with Highway A/G and the 7 Project. Wednesday night we did a youth service with Highway A/G. It was an intimate night, and we were really able to build some great connections with the youth from the church. On Thursday, we had the opportunity to do two school assemblies with the 7 Project in Walker Grant Middle School. The assembly was focused on some of the things that students deal with, such as dreams, scholastic achievement, choices, and violence. We did stomp and a human video for the assembly, and Ben had the opportunity to speak on the subject of Choices.

Then on Thursday night, we were back at Highway A/G for the 7 Project night rally. We had inflatable games, pizza, basketball, giveaways, and lots of other fun stuff. And then we all gathered for the message part of the rally, which concluded with Kevin Dawson (the 7 Project director) talking about what Christ did for us giving an invitation for students to accept Christ. There was a genuine sincerity among the students that responded that was simply incredible.

Go to our Photos Page to see the pictures!

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T U E S D A Y,     O C T O B E R     2 7 t h    ::

We have a very exciting couple of weeks in front of us. Tomorrow a team leaves for a 7 Project school assembly tour in Virginia, and another team leaves for a rally in Hamburg, PA. The Hamburg team will then be going to help with a youth convention in Illinois, and the 7 Project team will be going to help with a children’s retreat in Pittsburg followed by a youth convention in Michigan. God has blessed us with some incredible opportunities over the next few weeks, and we don’t want to miss out on anything that He has for us. Please pray that we would be faithful to the calling that God has placed on our lives as we go forth to minister in all of these places. That we would be open to the Spirit’s leading in our lives and not miss anything that God has for us or for someone we are ministering to. Also pray for the safety and health of the team as we travel. I can’t wait to see all that God is going to do over the next couple of weeks!

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    F R I D A Y,     O C T O B E R     2 3 r d    ::

Rockford Masters Commission joined us yesterday to do a service for United, our home youth ministry. They arrived in the early afternoon, and we had a great time of fellowship together, learning dramas, praying together, and just spending time together. Then at united they did worship and a message talking about how God sees us, as His beloved children. It was such a blessing to have Rockford with us.


Also, a team left this morning for the Potomac district PK/MK retreat. This is a great opportunity to pour into the lives of pastor’s and missionary’s kids. It’s a weekend to help them grow deeper in their faith, and to challenge them to make it their own. It’s also a weekend of encouraging and building them up, empowering them to stand firm against all the pressures they face. We are so excited to see all that God is going to do over the weekend.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    F R I D A Y,     O C T O B E R     1 6 t h    ::

Don’t miss out on our upcoming Masters Commission Preview Day. On December 11th, juniors, seniors, and graduates are invited to come and spend a day with Ground Zero Masters Commission. This is an opportunity for you to see some of the ministries that we are involved in, experience the discipleship environment that is offered, talk with the staff and students, and so much more. The day will start at 9am and go till 5pm. Lunch will be provided. Available spots are filling quickly, so be sure to fill out a Reservation Form. For more information, or if you have any questions, email christine@gzmconline.com or call 610.869.7332.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     O C T O B E R     1 4 t h    ::

This past weekend we were in Dover, DE for “The Well” leadership training conference. We helped with setup and tear down, as well as other things during the event. We ran several workshops at the conference including ones on dealing with the pressures of the society, being excited about the Word of God, and more. We also had the opportunity to do a drama at the closing session. It is always an amazing opportunity to spend time with other ministry leaders and share with each other all that God is doing.

Also on Saturday, a few of us went to West Fallowfield Christian School to help with their annual fundraiser. This school is an amazing ministry, and it was a blessing for us to help them. They hosted an action of various items, the proceeds of which went to the school. We helped run activities for the children to participate in while the parents were at the action. It was a great way to support the school as well as to spend time with the kids and share the love of Christ with them.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     O C T O B E R     7 t h    ::

Coming up on Friday, December 11th, is our Ground Zero Masters Commission Preview Day. This is a day for Juniors Seniors and Graduates to come and experience first-hand a Day at GZMC. You will have to opportunity to see some of the ministries we are involved in, experience the discipleship environment that is offered, meet the students and talk with them about the program, and so much more. You may ask, “What could make this day better?” How about free food! That’s right, lunch will be provided, so this is an event you will not want to miss. The day will start at 9am and go until 5pm. If you are unable to attend, we have another preview day scheduled for Friday, March 19th. If you are interested, please fill out a Reservation Form. For more information, or if you have any questions, email christine@gzmconline.com or call our office at 610.869.7332.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T H U R S D A Y,     O C T O B E R     1 s t    ::

Just a quick reminder that “The Marketplace” will be open this Saturday, October 3rd, from 9am-1pm. This will be a craft and vendor fair to support this year’s overseas mission trip to Peru. Don’t miss this awesome opportunity to pick up all kinds of vendors wares and hand-made creations, all while supporting our mission trip. “The Marketplace” will be held at the Christian Life Center, 125 Saginaw RD New London, PA. For more information, you can call 610.869.7332. Click hear to read more about last year’s mission trip to the Dominican Republic.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T U E S D A Y,     S E P T E M B E R     2 9 t h    ::

We just returned from an amazing weekend tour in New York. It was an absolutely incredible time, and God moved in amazing ways. Friday night we had the opportunity to be a part of the back to school bash at Faith Assembly of God. This was an incredible night of fun, food, and fellowship. Over 200 students came out to the event, and many of them responded to the challenge and said that they wanted to give everything to God! After the service, there was free pizza, inflatable games, and even a mechanical bull. It was a great time to connect with students and hear about what God was doing in their lives.

We spent the day Saturday practicing stomp and some of our dramas, as well as catching up on homework and other things. Then on Saturday evening we were able to go spend time with my family, have dinner together, and just hang out. It was a great time to relax and fellowship together.

Sunday morning we were blessed to be a part of the worship service at Trinity Assembly of God. This is an amazing church with a heart to reach out and touch their community and the world with the love of Jesus Christ. The presence of God was so evident there, and He was at work in each of our lives, stripping away the things that are not of Him. It truly was a blessing to be a part of what this church is doing.

To see pictures from the rallies, check out our Photos Page.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     S E P T E M B E R     2 3 r d    ::

Yesterday we went to take our Masters Commission Promo pictures for this year. We had a great location this year, and the pictures look amazing! Overall it was a lot of fun and we had a great time together. You can check them out over at our Photos page. And don’t forget to visit us on facebook to see individual pics of each of the students. In the near future we will be adding pictures and testimonies from each of the students, so keep checking back!

Masters Commission is an intense nine month discipleship program for young adults. At Ground Zero Masters Commission, you will have the opportunity to earn college while working toward your bachelors degree, learn the ins and outs of ministry through first-hand experience, and experience God move in your life in an unbelievable way. For more information, check out our About Us and Student Life pages. If you are interested, fill out a Masters Commission Application.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    M O N D A Y,     S E P T E M B E R     2 1 s t    ::

Our first years are here, and the 2009/2010 Masters Commission year has officially begun. We are so excited for all that God is going to do this year. We are ready for all that God wants to do in our lives. Ready to abandon everything for Him and His calling on our lives. We are expecting great things this year. Please pray that we would be attentive to the Spirit’s leading in our lives, and that we would have open hearts and a humble spirit to enable us to follow.

We will be updating our meet the team page soon with pictures and testimonies from each of the students, so keep checking back.

If you are interested in Masters Commission you can go to our About Us and Student Life pages to learn more. You can also fill out an Application for the 2010/2011 Masters year.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    F R I D A Y,     S E P T E M B E R     1 8 t h    ::

Coming up on October 3rd is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. We will be hosting “The Marketplace”, a fundraiser for our overseas mission trip. From 9am-1pm you can join us at the Christian Life Center, 125 Saginaw RD New London, PA. There will be many local vendors and crafters there with tons of amazing wares and hand-made items. This is a great chance to see all of these items in the same place and help support our mission trip. If you are interested in being a vendor, you can contact Christine@gzmconline.com, or call our offices at 620.869.7332. Click here to read Testimonies from last year’s mission trip.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    F R I D A Y,     A U G U S T     2 8 t h    ::

We are still accepting applications for the 09/10 year. Masters Commission provides an incredible environment for you to grow in countless ways. You will be challenged to grow closer to God by pushing aside the distractions in your life and focusing on God and His word through college classes and intense discipleship. You will also gain hands on experience that will help you regardless of where God takes you in life. We are dedicated to your success and will provide you with opportunities to build upon your strengths and expand your leadership capabilities. You will also gain hands on experience ranging from large youth conventions to leading small groups, homeless shelters to the foreign mission field, graphic design to video editing, and so much more. Masters Commission is a unique blend of academics, hands on experience, and intense discipleship. If you are interested in Masters Commission, Apply Now. Or for more information check out our About Us and Student Life pages. Also, to see a glimpse of what we do, check out our Youtube page.

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--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T H U R S D A Y,     A U G U S T     2 7 t h    ::

As I was reading 1 Thessalonians 4, the things that Paul said in verses 9-12 really stood out to me. We are to love on another, but that is something that God will teach us and it will come from our relationship with Jesus Christ. God has a love that is completely unfathomable, that we can never understand. But one thing is true, we are to love more and more with our actions and ask God to help us have a heart that loves like His. We all have love in us. God created love, and He created humans to have love to give and to receive from other humans. Therefore somewhere in us we have love to share, we just have to find it, or allow God to help us find it. Before Master’s last year, I can tell you that I did not really know how to show the love I had for other people or how to accept love from other people. That is not something that was shown much in my household, therefore I built a wall around those type of feelings. But over the year, God changed that in my heart, He began to break down those walls of hurt, bitterness, and negativity that held my love captive, and He showed me how to have compassion for other people. Also He showed me that it is the most amazing thing when we show love for other people. Revealing our love for our brothers and sisters in Christ has a tremendous ability to strengthen them. As I continued to gain “heart knowledge” of God over the year, He allowed me to show more love to the other girls on the team and the people that we would come in contact with over the year at rallies and such. It has been such a blessing to come to know more about God and His never ending love that we should show as well. God revealed His love to me throughout this year from our classes and the things that we did all year. God is so amazing and I am in awe of Him and the love He truly has for us that we cannot even begin to understand.

If you are interested in spending nine months in intense Bible study and discipleship training, all while earning college credits, Apply Now.

--Megan Haver--
Second Year Student

::    W E D N E S D A Y,     A U G U S T     2 6 t h    ::

In the beginning of 1 Thessalonians 4, specifically verse 1, Paul tells the Thessalonians that they are being challenged to “excel still more.” The Thessalonians had previously received instruction and exhortation on how to walk and live their lives in a way that was pleasing to the Lord, and they were doing that faithfully. Paul was ecstatic to hear such great news, but he also knew that they could quickly regress if there was no growth. Therefore, he challenged them to dive deeper and “step it up”. Yes, they were doing well, which was great, but this journey as a disciple of Christ had only just begun. There was new ground to be gained and new glory to move on to. This is so applicable in my life. I feel as if Masters Commission has given me an opportunity to have just a taste what it is like to run this race and hear the Lord say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” I say taste because I am still here on this planet running the race. The conclusion of last year was so climactic, and I could hardly believe my eyes as I looked back and tried to recollect and reminisce about all that God has done in me and the ground that had been gained. I am still putting pieces together. As awesome as this point in time may be, the race isn't over. There is more stretching that needs to happen, more chasing, more breaking, and more restoration. God is not finished, so I must “excel still more”.

--Rebekah McCrorey--
Second Year Student

::    T U E S D A Y,     A U G U S T     2 5 t h    ::

We are currently in Ocean City, MD on our second and third year retreat. This has been an amazing time of fellowship and refreshment, both physically and spiritually. We began the retreat with an amazing time of worship together, and since then have spent a couple hours at the beach swimming and playing ultimate Frisbee, the students have begun their leadership class, and we've had some time to just hang out, talk, and have fun.

Our first year students arrive on Saturday, September 12th. We are so excited for all that God wants to do with this family over the next 9 months. We are still accepting applications for the 09/10 year, so if you are interested in earning college credits while gaining hands on ministry experience, Apply Now.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    F R I D A Y,     A U G U S T     2 1 s t    ::

One of the most amazing opportunities that we have here at Masters Commission is our overseas mission trip. In the past few years we have ministered to people in Mexico, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic. We have seen God do amazing things while on these trips, everything from miraculous healings to salvations. On October 3rd, we will be hosting “The Marketplace”, a fundraiser to help offset the cost of our overseas mission trip. Come join us and see all of the amazing vendors wares and crafters creations. There will also be food and beverage as well as a children’s area. We are currently looking for crafters and vendors who would be interested in purchasing a booth at “The Marketplace”. “The Marketplace” will be open from 9am-1pm (set up time 7am) at the Christian Life Center in New London, PA. The cost for vendors is $30 for a 10 foot space with a table and two chairs, electric is $10 extra. For more information, or to purchase a space, call 610.869.7332 or email Christine@gzmconline.com Click here to read more about last year’s Mission Trip.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    T U E S D A Y,     A U G U S T     1 8 t h    ::

For as long as I could remember, I had plans on going to culinary school after I graduated high school. However, at the beginning of my senior year I felt that I wasn't ready to step out into the real world and I felt God calling me to Ground Zero Master's Commission. Most of my family and my friends didn't understand why I did Master's, but now I can see how God was preparing me for the call that He has placed on my life. I did Master's because I wanted to build a firm foundation on Him so that I would not be swayed by the world and what it has to offer me. I could have gone to college after high school and get lost in the typical college life of drinking, parties, and sex. However I didn't want that but I wanted everything that God had to offer me. I loved Master's! I loved the traveling, the worship, my home-openers, and of course the awesome girls that I had beside me. I learned so much about myself and who God is in my life. I also realized that God did give me a passion for the kitchen, cooking, and food. I feel so much joy whenever I cook or even think about it, so I knew that it had to be from God and not myself. As Master's started to come to a close I decided not to come back for a second year but go to culinary school. I know that God wanted me to do something in the culinary world but I just don't know what it is yet. It might be working at a Christian retreat center, feeding the homeless, or just ministering to the people I work with (since most kitchens need it). I just don't know what His plan is for me just yet, I just know that I have to go to culinary school. When I look back on all that God has done this past year, I am just in awe of God's love and that He will provide for your every need. God has moved so much and I can't wait to see what's next. It just again proves to me that "Nothing is in possible" with Him and that "My God is an Awesome God!"

--Lexy Tebbs--
First Year Graduate

::    T H U R S D A Y,     A U G U S T     6 t h    ::

One of the amazing opportunities that we have here at Masters Commission is our overseas mission trip. In the past few years we have ministered to people in Mexico, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic. We have seen God do amazing things while on these trips, everything from miraculous healings to salvations. On October 3rd, we will be hosting The Marketplace, a fundraiser to help offset the cost of our overseas mission trip. We are currently looking for crafters and vendors who would be interested in purchasing a booth at The Marketplace. The Marketplace will be open from 9am-10pm (set up time 7am) at the Christian Life Center in New London, PA. The cost is $30 for a 10 foot space with a table and two chairs, electric is $10 extra. For more information, or to purchase a space, call 610.869.7332 or email Christine@gzmconline.com Click here to read more about last year’s Mission Trip.

--Nic Knapp--
Intern

::    S U N D A Y,     A U G U S T     2 n d    ::

In Master’s Commission we are very intentional about the way we spend our days and what we spend our time doing. It is our hope that everything we do has value in maturing us spiritually and teaching us to be-come more effective in ministry, more productive in a future career, or teaching us an important lesson spiritually.

One of the ways we do that is in our academics—in addition to all the ministry that we do, we also take college classes in Bible from Chesapeake Bible College and Seminary. This allows us to learn the Word of God in addition to learning the practical knowledge we gain by hands–on ministry experience. I have found, however, that oftentimes I need to be reminded of why I do all the things I do. When I’m staying up late or get-ting up early to finish homework or write a paper, I sometimes need to stop to reset my focus and ensure that my mind is where it ought to be.

It is so easy to take homework and view it as work that needs to be done instead of viewing it as actually studying the infallible Word of God, as it actually is. Recently we have been studying the book of Acts. Put in nice terms, this class has been rigorous. Put in more honest terms, I have lost a great deal of sleep trying to finish homework, assigned Bible-reading, scripture memory, and several ministry responsibilities.

It is so easy in times like this to lose focus on why I do what I do. This came up when a friend of mine noted how much he had learned while writing an essay on Acts 17 and how it relates to modern preaching. My focus for that paper was getting it done so I could go to sleep. It’s not at all a stretch to say that my focus was way off on that paper. Realizing this, whenever I sit down to write a paper or to do homework, I have to take a minute to make sure my focus is on learning the Word of God. That almost always involves a short chat with God about wanting to learn something out of this assignment, not merely getting it done.

In as much as this is true in academic studies, it is also true of ministry applications. When I find myself making a Powerpoint for someone else’s presentation or editing photos for our website for hours, it is very easy to get caught up in finishing the job as quickly as possible so I can move on to something else, and in doing so the aspect of really learning from it fades quickly from view. It’s not that these aren’t service to the Kingdom or aren’t important—it’s a mindset issue and a focus issue. Again, learning to reset my focus has been tremendously important.

This idea has been very significant to me personally—it challenges me to consider what the purpose is behind what I am doing, and to consider whether or not my actions, my thoughts, and my attitudes line up with that purpose. And through this process, it is incredible to see how much God actually does teach me when my focus is where it needs to be, and when I actually do live my life for Him as I so desire to do.

--Teddy Tompkins--
Second Year Graduate