Dr. Arthur M. Climenhaga

It is with deep thankfulness for a life lived for the glory of God that the Brethren in Christ Church honours the life and ministry of our brother, Arthur. To use the title of Harvey Sider's recent biography, Arthur Merlin Climenhaga "cast a long shadow" in the Brethren in Christ Church and in the wider Evangelical and Holiness Movements.

As a youth, Arthur struggled with issues of salvation and sanctification, ultimately finding release from "play religion" to a deep and personal relationship with God. To prepare for a life of service, he diligently pursued studies in various contexts, with a major portion at Beulah (later Upland) College and other Christian institutions in Southern California.

While completing his education, Arthur became deeply involved with the church. As a student leader at Upland College, he threw his energies into revivals, prayer times, quartet and preaching appointments, and attendance at General Conferences of the Brethren in Christ – and already among other denominations. Called to the presidency of Upland College, Arthur led the institution to new levels of growth and recognition. During these years, he refined his understanding of church doctrine, especially our peace position.

From his childhood in Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) as the son of missionary parents, Arthur's heart continued to throb for world missions. By 1945 he returned to Zimbabwe, where he spent the next 15 years providing leadership to a rapidly expanding ministry. Due to his leadership abilities and communication skills, he was highly respected by government officials. This in turn caused the Brethren in Christ Church to be favourably regarded as well. With his facility in the local language, he was greatly appreciated by both national and missionary personnel. He spoke boldly of the need for indigenization and encouraged early steps in the direction of national church leadership. During this time, Arthur served as a key figure in Billy Graham's Bulawayo Crusade resulting in a friendship with Graham that spanned the subsequent years.

With the need for Messiah College to secure state status for granting degrees, Arthur accepted the invitation to serve as President of the college. Through his leadership, the College received its regional accreditation in 1963.

Having accomplished that goal, he accepted a three-year term as Executive Director of the National Association of Evangelicals. In this capacity he encouraged the NAE to move from an inward focus to an outward thrust in cooperation and missions.

Arthur served for five years as Bishop of the Pacific/Midwest conferences. One new initiative during this time was the determination to establish Upland Manor. With his heart in education, Arthur accepted an assignment with Western Evangelical Seminary in Portland, Oregon. Again he played a pivotal role in gaining accreditation for the seminary. While here, he became instrumental in attracting Brethren in Christ students, many of whom are now serving in our congregations. Later Arthur accepted the call to Ashland Theological seminary, where he continued to pour out his heart and life in the preparation of young people preparing to serve the church.

As General Secretary of the denomination from 1973 to 1984 Arthur had broad influence – though the boards and committees on which he served, in his visible role at General Conference, and by his speaking in many congregations in Canada and the USA. He was admired and respected for his parliamentary and administrative skills, and at times had listeners reaching for dictionaries to understand the words he used – or, more characteristically stated, to comprehend the vagaries of his erudite articulation.

As a gifted and articulate orator with a commanding bass voice, Arthur was always in demand both within and beyond the Brethren in Christ Church. He loved to preach the Word. Over the decades he was a passionate proponent of the holy life, challenging people to respond to God's invitation to holiness.

Though possessing great skills and intellect, Arthur loved to be with people, building relationships wherever he went. He carried the church close to his heart. He loved the world widely, sharing himself wherever he could as time and energy allowed. He will be greatly missed.

As a church we express our deep appreciation to his loving wife, recognizing her sacrificial partnership in Arthur's ministry. Lona, we gratefully acknowledge your willingness to share your husband with the church and your significant contribution to his effective leadership and service.

The Brethren in Christ Church gives thanks to God for the life and ministry of the Dr. Arthur M. Climenhaga. His was a life poured out like a drink offering. He fought the good fight, he finished the race, he kept the faith. We rejoice that now there is for him the crown of righteousness.

Reverend Darrell Winger
General Secretary
The Brethren in Christ Church, North America

WELCOME