Throughout its existence, A Word from the Word has clearly been a personality-driven ministry—that is, 35 years of Dan Hayden’s Bible teaching, shared nationally and internationally through this nonprofit ministry, originally called Christolized Ministries. An intrinsic problem exists with personality based ministries, however. When the personality is unable to carry on because of health issues or death, the ministry often dies. This has led Dan to think about perpetuity—the idea of continuing AWFTW beyond his lifetime.
In the providence of God, Dan’s desire for a long-lasting continuance of A Word from the Word will begin to become a reality. As of September 2016, AWFTW will partner with Horizon Education Network, a ministry based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Horizon is experiencing rapid growth as a premier distance learning education network designed to provide accredited biblical training for the international body of Christ. Facilitating course work in a growing number of languages, Horizon harnesses new learning technologies in the development of courses and programs of study that are culturally sensitive.
Since Horizon is exclusively international in scope, they have been praying for a U.S.A. English-based education ministry to partner with them to complete their scope of outreach. Rob Hayden, (Dan & Karilee’s son) is the Vice President of Academics for Horizon; therefore, they have long been aware of AWFTW and the studies God has enabled Dan to produce. With very little modification, these studies stand ready to be turned into engaging Bible studies for individuals and small groups.
This is exactly what Horizon has been looking for. Consequently, Horizon has invited A Word from the Word to partner with them in providing doctrinally sound expositional studies for believers in the U.S.A. and Canada. Horizon has expressed an interest in perpetuating AWFTW as an integral part of their network, even when Dan is no longer able to continue teaching. In the meantime, Dan will remain the Director and principle teacher of AWFTW.
Beginning this fall (2016), AWFTW will unveil a restructured format for its ministry, focusing on a Biblical Learning Center. A process has already begun to produce Bible study manuals for all of our products. Four of these manuals have already been written, and the first one is currently at the printer. In the meantime, all of our CD and DVD studies will include extensive printed notes to be purchased or downloaded free from the Internet. Our goal is to provide biblically sound Christ-centered studies for individuals, adult classes, and small groups.
So, with full confidence in God’s leading, we are moving A Word from the Word from Orlando to Grand Rapids, Michigan to partner with Horizon Education Network. AWFTW will remain a separate nonprofit corporation, dependent upon the gifts of God’s people. Nothing will change except our location. We will maintain the same website, same engaging Bible studies, and same Bible teacher, Dan Hayden. Until further notice, most likely several months, we will continue to use the same Orlando address—PO Box 690965, Orlando, FL 32869. And for a short time (beginning 26 August 2016), orders will be put on hold until we’re up and running again.
Please pray for us as we make this transition to Michigan. We are anticipating an expanded ministry with an even greater influence for the cause of Christ.
By the grace of God, in Christ,
Dan Hayden
God bless you and this ministry! How exciting! I have learned a great deal in your classes, as I attended several at First Baptist of Orlando, as well as from your books and CDs. Thank you for sharing your gifts with others, as it helps to enrich our understanding of God’s word.
Dan
Thank you for your faithfulness to the Word, my faith is deeper and stronger because of it, to GOD be the glory
We hate to see you and Karilee move away and leave our Life Group, but we understand and will continue to support you and will continue to pray for God’s blessing on you and the ministry. David and Kay Godfrey
Dan, what a great blessing it has been for bo.th me and Marilyn to have been friends with you and Karilee for the past eight years. Your Bible teachings have been the greatest. Both of you will be missed. God Bless
Thank you Dan for your ministry. I listen to AWFTW on a regular schedule & have read some of your books & articles. I’m glad to see the ministry will continue.
In Christ,
Bob Himes
Dan, my wife Patricia and I have been so blessed by your Acts classes at FBCO and know that many others have been also. We treasure the CDs and DVDs we have acquired over the years. You will be sorely missed but we understand your heart for ministry. May God richly bless you and Karilee.
Mike and Pat Smith
Dear Pastor Dan & Karilee,
Even though we didn’t see each other often, you both will be missed by me. I still remember our time when you visited me in the hospital and when you were ready to leave your words of encouragement “You are not alone, the Lord is with you and He alone has sent people to uplift you during this journey with cancer”. Over these years of brain and bladder cancer, falls having to have knee/leg in braces, and other health issues, He always has been there for me and I can only as the scriptures states “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4 He continues to give me joy in Him which I praise Him.
Praying for you as you folks move to MI where I was born and went to Bible college in Grand Rapids.
Oh yes, did you ever do the Over View of Scriptures for children?
Please do keep in touch and if I don’t physically see you again, I will spiritually see you in heaven. PTL!
Much Aloha & Joy in Jesus,
Ann (Doddie)
So awesome that your ministry and teaching of the Word will be saved and preserved and available for the masses. I’m so privileged for all the years of your teaching at Faith Baptist Church Orlando and to be able to call you friend.