Three Questions is a semi-regular series introducing individuals across the NAB by asking them about their story, their ministry, and what they are learning. These features on members of our NAB family also provide great opportunities to pray for them as we get to know more of their story. This week, we hear from Gerald Dzawo, pastor of Oak Street Baptist Church in Burlington, Iowa. I was born and raised in Zimbabwe before coming to the United States as a young man to pursue youth ministry studies. My journey took me to Colorado for college, and after finishing, I returned to Zimbabwe, where I served with Youth for Christ as a youth counselor while also teaching computers at a Christian school in Bulawayo. Life began to unfold quickly after that—I met a girl and got married, and together we started a family that has now grown to four children: two girls and two boys, in that order. Not long after, we moved to Harare, Zimbabwe. There, I became involved with a church plant and later served as a youth pastor at a large non-denominational church. It was during this time that my burden for equipping youth workers really deepened. Out of that passion, I started an organization dedicated to training and resourcing youth leaders across Zimbabwe. We facilitated camps, organized large-scale youth events, and even hosted international mission trips that gave young people an opportunity to encounter Jesus in powerful ways. But the work also drew unwanted attention. The government saw our leadership camps as a threat, and eventually government officials began questioning me about our activities. That questioning turned into intimidation and even torture. In the end, for the safety of my family, we fled Zimbabwe. . . . This past July, 230 students descended on Orange County, California, for six days to be the hands and feet of Jesus as they served with local nonprofits as part of The Gathering. One of those who attended The Gathering was Darrion, a high school student from Grace Community Church in Detroit, Michigan: This year was my very first Gathering, and it was honestly one of the most Spirit-filled weeks I’ve ever experienced. From Sunday to Friday, God’s presence was so real—chains were broken, people were healed, and Jesus was lifted up in every moment. The worship was unforgettable—not just a hype moment but a reminder that real worship means giving God everything, even when you’re tired or don’t feel like it. Serving at the Ronald McDonald House was another highlight of the week. Our group bonded quickly, not just with each other but also with the staff and families we met. Even in the small tasks, people served with joy, showing what it really looks like to be the hands and feet of Jesus. The Gathering wasn’t just a trip for me – it was a picture of what the Ekklesia is called to be: God’s people coming together to worship, serve, and experience his presence in a powerful way. While all who attended The Gathering contributed to the cost of putting on such a massive undertaking, much of the expense was offset by the Ministry Resource Fund. This all-purpose fund is crucial for ongoing ministries across the North American Baptist Conference. When you give to the 2025 Fall Offering, you are actively supporting ministry opportunities like The Gathering, as well as others like Blue Ocean, Year of Equipping, and much, much more. You can read more about what took place at The Gathering, as well as discover ways to give, by following the link below. In addition to giving to the Fall Offering, we invite every NAB church to take a Thanksgiving offering in support of the Ministry Resource Fund. When you click on the link below, you will find slides, videos, bulletin inserts, and more, all designed to help you promote the 2025 Fall Offering during your service. Blue Ocean is a transformative one-year learning experience. You’ll be part of a cohort that journeys together throughout the year, exploring what it means to join God on mission, be formed into the character of Christ, and dwell in your neighborhood – sharing and living out the Gospel. We meet three times a year in three different cities across the United States and Canada for multi-day retreats. Blue Ocean includes pastors, leaders, and regional ministers from across the NAB. Each cohort represents a cross-section of regions, church sizes, and ministry styles. The discussions are both encouraging and challenging.
What’s your story?
The deadline to apply for Blue Ocean 2025–26 is October 17.
Module 1 Location: Vancouver, British Columbia Module 2 Location: TBD Module 3 Location: Medina, Ohio |
There is no cost for Blue Ocean, though participants are responsible for covering their travel and accommodation costs. All other costs are covered by the NAB. The deadline to apply is October 17.
Due to the ongoing Canada Post strike, we invite all Canadian supporters of the NAB to take advantage of our electronic giving options below. For US residents, you can continue to use USPS as normal, though we also invite you to save time and a stamp by checking out these options as well. (Interac e-transfer is only available in Canada; also, the US text-to-give number is (916) 249-0534.
Pre-authorized Giving
- This is a pre-authorized debit agreement between your bank account and the NAB. Funds will be withdrawn from your bank on the 20th of each month and can be directed to your chosen ministry. If you would like to set this up or adjust it, please contact Briana Eaton at beaton@nabconf.org.
Interac e-Transfer
- To give using Interac e-transfer please use this email address: givecanada@nabconf.org. Use the note field to give instructions on where your gift should be directed.
Online Giving
- Whether it is a one-time gift, or you would like to schedule a recurring donation, you can give online using our website – nabconference.org/give.
Text to Give
- Text any amount to (204) 400-2238. For more information on how to use this giving option, please visit nabconference.org/give/text-to-give.
Credit Card via Phone
- Contact Briana Eaton at (916) 797-6251.
Stocks & Securities
- Contact Betty Buchholz at (916) 886-2351.