Dave and Hinka Gilbert are proud first-time grandparents! Esther Elizabeth Gilbert was born August 28 at 10:38 p.m. to David and Anna Gilbert of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Esther weighed 8 lbs. 1 oz. and was 20½ inches long. All are well. “Grandparenting is really neat,” said Dave and Hinka, after a couple of days’ experience.
Denver, Colorado
Last weekend members of the leadership team of the new Ground Zero Church in Denver participated in another session of Church-Next training for leaders of church plants. This session addressed the areas of evangelism, gathering a core group (of new people), evangelistic small groups and planning a “grand opening” for a new church.
On Sunday, Church Multiplication Ministries director Randy Bloom visited their worship service and participated in their outreach activity Sunday afternoon. Attendance at the worship service was 44, with about a dozen visitors, a few of them previously non-churched. The outreach activity was a pool party and cookout at the apartment complex where they hold their worship service. Several people from the complex enjoyed the food and met members of Ground Zero.
For more pictures of the Ground Zero open house, go to our US mission blog, “It Looks Like This,” at (http://gci-usa.blogspot.com/), and click on “seek.”
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SEP SoCal
Mark and Anne Stapleton reported that SEP SoCal was held in July at Cedar Lake Camp in Big Bear, California, with 78 staffers and 170 campers. They wrote: “We are very grateful for the help of generous donors who helped scholarship 50 percent of these campers.” This year, the camp continued its emphasis on developing young emerging leaders with the theme “In Pursuit,” which emphasized that God pursues a personal relationship with each of us. Photos follow:
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Dr. Inyambo Nyumbu
Zambia
African Missions Director Kalengule Kaoma attended a leadership meeting for pastors and congregational leaders in Zambia August 19-23. Dr. Inyambo Nyumbu, national ministry leader for Zambia, organized the event, which was held in Chongwe, fifty kilometers east of Lusaka.
Kalengule reported that the leaders and pastors who attended asked him to pass their love to all.
Photos follow:
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Dallas, Texas
Reconciliation Ministries director Curtis May, together with GCI pastors Tom Pickett, Arnold Clauson and Bob Persky, held a reconciliation seminar called “A Time to Reconcile” at the Omni Dallas Hotel Park West August 7-8 in Farmers Branch, Texas.
Curtis reported that 150 church leaders, community leaders and local citizens gathered for an energetic, eye-opening and encouraging two-day seminar. Asked their impression of the weekend, the most common response was, “Wow, this is more than I thought.”
Two weekends ago, we visited three congregations in the Johannesburg/Pretoria area. We met with the Raslow congregation on Saturday morning, the Johannesburg Central congregation on Sunday morning, and then the Sizwe church plant on Sunday afternoon. The Sizwe congregation consists of people who are in the Sizwe hospital. This hospital serves those who are suffering from extremely difficult to treat cases of tuberculosis and AIDS. These are the cases that have become resistant to normal drug treatments.
About 15 percent of those admitted die there, while the rest are helped sufficiently they can be released. Patients come from all over South Africa, and even from other parts of the continent, as it is a unique facility. Several of our leaders approached the hospital administration some time ago, asking permission to start a church service on the hospital grounds, to serve those who would appreciate the chance to worship. This permission was granted with the desire that spiritual hope could be provided to these very desperate and at times very depressed and discouraged people.
Between 30 and 40 patients meet for worship each Sunday afternoon. Due to the contagious nature of the diseases, the service is held outside. Our ministers go through the wards wearing masks, inviting the patients to the service and offering to pray for any who would welcome prayer. Wendy and I went with them into the wards, which was a moving experience. Does it ever make you appreciate the blessings you have in life, and makes very clear that God and his love are the ultimate realities for every human being! The worship was really uplifting, and the church even has a choir group who performed a couple of inspiring worship pieces for us.
I spoke about God’s love and the fact that he has already secured our salvation through Jesus Christ. It but remains for us to say “yes” to what God has done, and choose to enter the father/child relationship with him through Jesus Christ. Speaking to that group, who have so little hope in this life, and being able to simply be a mouthpiece to express God’s love for each one of them and what he desires for each of them, was both humbling and an honor. Wendy and I left services moved by what we saw, and we will be keeping the people there in our prayers on a regular basis. Pastors Grant and Papike set a wonderful example of Christian ministry in the way they serve this congregation with love and tenderness.
Finally, last weekend we were able to fly four hours to the island of Mauritius on the Indian Ocean to enjoy two days of vacation (the beaches and coral reef are wonderful), followed by meeting with the congregation on the weekend. The island is primarily French speaking, but English is widely understood. It is a beautiful place, in some ways physically reminiscent of Hawaii. The culture is heavily influenced by Asian influences. We have a thriving congregation of 40 on the island. Wendy and I presented two messages on Saturday and two on Sunday, which seemed to be very well received. Yves and Lisbie Nayna, and Benedict and Mary Joyce Moutou pastor the members very well. We much enjoyed our time with them.
On Saturday night almost everyone was able to attend a barbecue held at a member’s home, which ended with a sing-along of some popular worship songs in both English and Creole. The church there has about 10 children in regular attendance, and has a nice mix of all generations in the congregation. It creates a very close, family atmosphere amongst the membership.
Prayer Requests and Updates
Pastor Dave Husmann of our Omaha, Nebraska, and Sioux City, Iowa, churches was injured when his motorcycle was hit by a vehicle that ran a stop sign. Dave sustained numerous scrapes and bruises, and is pretty banged up. It appears he has no broken bones, but an MRI is scheduled to check for other injuries. Please keep Dave and his family in your prayers.
Cards may be sent to: 250 N 8th St Akron, IA 51001-8603
Ray Meyer’s mom has deteriorated since her surgery. Ray said, “She is semi-comatose and not responding to verbal commands. All of her doctors feel she will not be able to pull out of the severely compromised condition she is in. The prognosis is very poor. We are probably facing turning off the ventilator and life support in the near future. I’m sure you know this is a very hard thing to do. But God’s grace is sufficient. Please pray for his mercy and grace for Mom and for us, and his will to be done.” Pastor Dave Orban underwent triple bypass surgery Monday morning. Dave has been pastoring in our denomination for nearly 40 years. His faithfulness and care for people has been a wonderful blessing for all those who know him.
Here’s an update from Sue Berger:
The surgeon saw no heart damage and expects a full recovery. Dave will be in ICU a couple of nights (sedated and on a breathing tube the first night, which will be removed early in the morning and he’ll be allowed to wake up). Then he will be in intermediate care for 4-5 nights. Doctors expect him to be able to return home in a week. The surgeon wants him to walk a lot for his therapy for the first month, but expects Dave will very soon be feeling better than he has in a while. We’ll pass along any other news as we get it, along with hospital room info when he gets out of ICU. Thanks for your continued prayers!
Cards may be sent to: 7 Ramblewood Dr Longview, TX 75605-3348
Wendy Moore’s mom is in the hospital recovering from surgery for a blockage in her bowel. The surgery appears to have been successful, but she is still fighting nausea, and can’t seem to hold her food down. Your prayers for her would be much appreciated. From Bob and Debbie Klynsmith:
As discussed, various tests indicate that Debbie has breast cancer, which is likely to require surgery after a protracted treatment of chemotherapy followed by radium therapy. We are meeting with the relevant doctors at Groote Schuur on Wednesday morning to get a more complete diagnosis of her condition and their recommendations regarding treatment. Your prayers and the prayers of the church would be deeply appreciated. We look to the love of Jesus for healing, guidance and wisdom during this very difficult time.
Cards may be sent to: PO Box 2536 Durbanville 7551 SOUTH AFRICA
Remember that prayer is the battleground where we fight the good fight of faith. Let’s encourage everyone to join together in prayer, for we belong to Christ, and by the Spirit it is in Christ that we pray. Prayer and other spiritual activities help keep our hearts in tune with God and remind us of who we are in Christ. He is our all in all, and in him we are eternally beloved of the Father and blessed to share his good news with others.
GCI African Missions Director Kalengule Kaoma sent a report from our national festival in Benin City, Nigeria, which took place August 12-15. Attendance reached 262 from 15 congregations across Nigeria. The theme was based on Ephesians 4:2: “Bearing With One Another In Love.”
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Eunice & Peace
Grace & Paul
Kalengule wrote, “Dressed in their beautiful attire, brethren appeared magnificent in the sanctuary as they joined their voices in songs of praise and worship to our God.”
The group rejoiced with the Igbineweka family of the Benin City as Peace Osaruese and Eunice Osafueko, son and daughter of the Igbinewekas, were baptized on August 13.
On August 15, Paul Osa Igbineweka was ordained as a deacon.
Ontario, Canada: Camp Connections 2010
Camp Connections 2010 began July 16 with staff training. Staff heard messages about teamwork, health and safety training, and loving each other and the campers in preparation for our Ontario Camping Association visit (which we passed with flying colors! We are excited about that as it means we will be able to advertise more widely on the web).
The first session of camp began on the 17th with the arrival of 30 campers, ages 11-22. Second session we had 46 campers, which we consider a full house. More and more campers are bringing friends!
Special moments included a visit from Dennis Lawrence, our camp director, for a couple of days. Dennis was not able to be with us this year for health reasons, but it was great to have him there for a short time. We were excited to have eleven campers make first-time commitments to Jesus Christ. Camp closed with the baptism of a young lady from Montreal. We were able to celebrate that with campers, staff, parents who were coming to pick up their campers, as well as the day camp that shares the property with us.
We already have our first registration for 2011! To see pictures, check out our camp video at www.camp-connections.org
Wisconsin Dells
From Pastor Doug Johannsen:
You’re all invited to our annual Dells Celebration at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, from September 30 to October 3, 2010. Dr. Mike Feazell will be our guest speaker this year. Our theme is “On To Maturity.” Join us on this four-day journey as we examine four major areas of life that reflect maturity in our walk with Jesus.
Step 1: Reserve your room at the Kalahari by Sunday, August 29, 2010. The Kalahari is the premier family resort in the Dells featuring the world’s largest indoor water park and a new theme park. Phone 1-877-525-2427 for reservations.
Hut – $109.00 per night plus tax, 1-4 people only. Lodge Suite – $129 per night plus tax, 1-4 people only. Combination Suite (lodge and hut) – $238 per night plus tax, sleeps up to 8 people. Village – (lodge and two adjoining huts) – $347 per night plus tax, sleeps up to 12 people.
You must call the Kalahari Resort no later than August 29 to reserve your room. After August 29, the low prices we’ve negotiated will no longer be available! Let the reservation personnel know you are with Grace Communion International or Worldwide Church of God. The Kalahari reservation number is 1-877-525-2427.
Then enter: Group ID 14215 Password: 244 Contact Password (Optional): Leave this blank. Click on “Make Reservation” and follow the prompts.
Step 2: Register with Grace Communion International/Worldwide Church of God Headquarters online at: www.wcg.org/go/wisconsin. Follow the prompts and pay with your credit card.
Or you may download a registration form, fill it out and mail your registration with a check to:
Grace Communion International P.O. Box 5005 Glendora, CA 91740-5005
If you do not have Internet access, contact me, Dells Coordinator Doug Johannsen, and I will mail the forms to you.
Step 3: Come celebrate Jesus with your family and friends. Enjoy good food and activities! The Kalahari is a very family activity oriented facility with a huge water park and a new theme park!
If you have any questions, contact Pastor Doug Johannsen at doug.johannsen@gci.org or by phone at 763-576-1086.
Higher Ground
Some have asked about the band that played worship music during the conference in Orlando. The band is named Higher Ground, and they regularly serve at the GCI Community Life Fellowship congregation in Altadena, California.
The band members serving at the conference were Mike Hale: vocals and worship leading; Kathy Killebrew: vocals; Al Killebrew: keyboards and vocals; Sue Braden: vocals; Nathan Braden: drums; Linda Willhoite: vocals; Terry Willhoite: bass guitar and vocals; and Buddy Nuanez: guitar.
Pathways Camp director Jay Richie reports that Pathways 2010, held July 17-23 near Jackson, Ohio, served 124 campers with 56 staffers this year. The group shared worship and fun, learning together about the life we share in union with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The camp curriculum is available at http://genmin.gci.org/Web%20Documents/Elation!%202010%20Curriculum.pdf).
A highlight of this year’s camp was an outreach event in cooperation with Jackson County Family Services. Pathways senior campers hosted a block party for 15 disadvantaged 8 to 12-year-olds to show them Jesus’ love in an environment of fun, fellowship and laughter. The Family Services manager said he hopes to send some of these kids as full campers next year.
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Prayer Requests and Updates
Dennis Lawrence
Pastor Dennis Lawrence reported that is recovering well from his two surgeries last April and May. However, he is now undergoing an even more aggressive chemotherapy regimen with all the resulting side effects. He wrote: “I’m in good spirits, and the medical staff is encouraging. They speak in terms of cure and successful management of this. My family and the churches, and so many around the world, have been so encouraging and helpful through prayer, cards, emails and their presence to offer whatever might be needed. I can only thank everyone for that, and God for his grace.”
Edith Rostant
Pearl Charles, wife of Trinidad and Tobago pastor Clifton Charles, asked for prayer for her mother, Edith Rostant, who has recently suffered two strokes. Pearl wrote, “We have prepared ourselves for however this turns out. She has had a full, active life and will be celebrating her 86th birthday in October, God willing. We deeply appreciate all she is to all of us and we are very much inspired by her focus as she sings and prays during all the health challenges.”
Verna Meyer
Kansas City, Missouri, pastor Ray Meyer requests your prayers for his 90-year-old mother, Verna Meyer. Verna is in intensive care with a major urinary tract infection, pneumonia, colitis and low blood pressure, and the doctors are concerned about sepsis setting in. Verna’s condition is very serious, and the next day or two are critical. Please remember her and the Meyer family in your prayers.
Remember that prayer is the battleground where we fight the good fight of faith. Let’s encourage everyone to join together in prayer, for we belong to Christ, and by the Spirit it is in Christ that we pray. Prayer and other spiritual activities help keep our hearts in tune with God and remind us of who we are in Christ. He is our all in all, and in him we are eternally beloved of the Father and blessed to share his good news with others.
African Missions Director Gary Moore and his wife, Wendy, traveled to Pretoria, South Africa, after our International Conference in Orlando. They have been visiting congregations and helping with the tri-annual South African pastors conference, which was held last weekend near Cape Town.
“The South Africa pastors conference was a great success,” Gary said, “focusing on the implications of Trinitarian Theology for pastoral ministry through interactive group work and plenty of question and answer time.”
Gary said that UK Mission Director James Henderson and his wife, Shirley, were also able to attend the conference, and “contributed greatly to the four days we had together.” Gary added, “The Hendersons much appreciated the chance to visit South Africa again (where they lived for a number of years), and the ministry much enjoyed renewing acquaintances with them.”
Aubrey Toli
We had some very sad news just before the conference. Domingos, the leader of the group of about 60 congregations from Mozambique and southern Malawi who are in process of affiliating with GCI, died suddenly after a short illness. He left a widow with three young children. Please pray for his family and for the churches he led. One of their district superintendents has been appointed interim leader by their church board. GCI South Africa National Director Tim Maguire and one or two others are hoping to travel to Mozambique soon to see what we can do to help. Your prayers for God’s direction on this affiliation process would also be greatly appreciated.
On the bright side, Gary baptized Aubrey Toli during the conference. Aubrey is the youth leader on the pastoral team in the Mohlakeng congregation in the Johannesburg area. Gary said, “I was honored to be asked to perform the baptism, but as it is winter in the southern hemisphere, I thought later that Aubrey might have figured the minister most willing to do a baptism in very cold water would be the Canadian!”
Speaking of Life Voice-overs
Speaking of Life videos are now being translated into Spanish and French! Plans are also being made for German translations. Here are links to the Spanish voice-over, Hablando de la Vida, and the French voice-over, En Parlant de la Vie:
Some 40 International Conference attendees stayed afterward for a two-day Christian Leadership seminar sponsored by ACCM. Several commented on the seminar and the conference: Leadership Seminar Comments
Staff Changes
GCI treasurer Mat Morgan reported that our long-time, faithful and beloved accounting manager, Clark Miller, has announced his intention to retire in January 2011. Mat said, “Clark’s extensive knowledge and experience and his wonderful service to the Church as Accounting Manager over the years have been invaluable. We will miss him greatly, but we also wish him every blessing as he prepares for this transition.”
Mat added that IT Manager Robert Meade will assume Clark’s duties as Accounting Manager. Until Clark’s retirement in January, Robert will be working alongside him in preparation for his new responsibilities.
Bret Miller is the new IT Manager. Bret has extensive experience in the IT field and has worked closely with Robert for many years.
Haitian refugees mission trip report
GCI Media Director Michael Morrison and his wife, Janet, just returned from leading a mission trip to Bahamas to work with children of Haitian refugees. Here is a link to Janet’s daily blog: http://gctrips.org/2010blog.aspx
Estonia public lecture
Carl Fredrik Aas will hold a public lecture on Thursday evening in Tartu, Estonia, about the history of the Bible. He will talk about how the Bible has been preserved, copied and translated through the centuries. He would appreciate prayers for the success of the lecture.
Jesanya Scale
Jamaica
GCI Jamaica Pastor Leroy Joiles sent his thanks for the recent International Conference. Leroy wrote:
“Thank you for a wonderful conference experience. It was indeed a blessing for me to be there. I will send you another email in a few days to comment further on the conference and the two days of ACCM Leadership Training.
Jesanya Scale, who also attended the conference and the ACCM Leadership Seminar, gave her first sermon on July 31, our Youth Day. Our goal is to empower our youths and help them to see the church as their church too. We do not want to just give lip service to Youth Day, but we want to use it to empower our young people so they can become on fire for God and the mission to which they are called.”
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
From Pastor Doug Johannsen:
You’re all invited to our annual Dells Celebration at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, from September 30 to October 3, 2010. Dr. Mike Feazell will be our guest speaker this year.
Our theme this year is “On To Maturity.” Join us on this four-day journey as we examine four major areas of life that reflect maturity in our walk with Jesus.
Step 1: Reserve your room at the Kalahari by Sunday, August 29, 2010. The Kalahari is the premier family resort in the Dells featuring the world’s largest indoor water park and a new theme park. Phone 1-877-525-2427 for reservations.
Hut – $109.00 per night plus tax, 1-4 people only. Lodge Suite – $129 per night plus tax, 1-4 people only. Combination Suite (lodge and hut) – $238 per night plus tax, sleeps up to 8 people. Village – (lodge and two adjoining huts) – $347 per night plus tax, sleeps up to 12 people.
You must call the Kalahari Resort no later than August 29 to reserve your room. After August 29, the low prices we’ve negotiated will no longer be available! Let the reservation personnel know you are with Grace Communion International or Worldwide Church of God. The Kalahari reservation number is 1-877-525-2427.
Then enter: Group ID 14215 Password: 244 Contact Password (Optional): Leave this blank. Click on “Make Reservation” and follow the prompts.
Ste 2: Register with Grace Communion International/Worldwide Church of God Headquarters online at: <www.wcg.org/go/wisconsin>, and follow the prompts. Pay with your credit card.
Or you may download a registration form, fill it out and mail your registration with a check to:
Grace Communion International PO Box 5005 Glendora CA 91740-5005
If you do not have Internet access, contact me, Dells Coordinator Doug Johannsen, and I will mail the forms to you.
Step 3: Come celebrate Jesus with your family and friends. Enjoy good food and activities! The Kalahari is a very family activity oriented facility with a huge water park and a new theme park!
If you have any questions, contact Pastor Doug Johannsen at doug.johannsen@gci.org or by phone at 763-576-1086.
Mission America event
The Mission America Coalition would like to encourage churches to register and participate in National Back to Church Sunday. This single-day event will be held on September 12, 2010, and has more than 2,200 churches participating.
Findings by LifeWay Research indicate that 82 percent of unchurched people would be open to attending church if invited by a friend, but only 2 percent of church members have actually invited someone to church during the past year. National Back to Church Sunday is an opportunity for every believer to invite their friends, family, and neighbors to church.
Remember that prayer is the battleground where we fight the good fight of faith. Let’s encourage everyone to join together in prayer, for we belong to Christ, and by the Spirit it is in Christ that we pray. Prayer and other spiritual activities help keep our hearts in tune with God and remind us of who we are in Christ. He is our all in all, and in him we are eternally beloved of the Father and blessed to share his good news with others.
Two new Filipino elders were ordained in our headquarters office here in Glendora on Monday. Sadie and Angie Tabin, who also attended our international conference in Orlando, Florida, were here with Philippines National Director Eugene Guzon. Besides their pastoral team work, the Tabins serve in a prison ministry and are assessing the possibility of planting a new congregation. Please remember them in prayer.
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Ted Johnston has posted some short videos from our GCI-USA mission blog on YouTube. The link is: http://www.youtube.com/user/pastortedjohnston. These can also be downloaded for use in presentations or embedded on local church websites.
Israel/Jordan Tour, June 2011
GCI pastors and members are invited to participate in a unique study tour of Israel with optional added trip into Jordan in June 2011. As noted in the attached brochure, the trip focuses on biblical stewardship and provides not only special access to popular sites in the Holy Land but also access to some seldom seen sites. This special opportunity is being extended to us by Dr. Scott Preissler, a friend of GCI and an expert in biblical stewardship.
The price for the Israel segment of the tour is $3963.00. This price includes airfare from Dallas to Israel and back to Dallas or another International airport nearer you. The price also includes all lodging in Israel (double occupancy), breakfast and dinner each day of the tour, ground transportation by tour bus, tips, and entry fees. The optional Jordan add-on trip costs an additional $900.00. These prices are quite low for what is provided because generous donors are subsidizing the trip’s cost. Dr. Preissler has generously extended this subsidy to us.
If you are interested in participating in this exceptional study trip, notify Ted Johnston in the next few days (by email at Ted.Johnston@gci.org or by phone at 330.497.7188). If our GCI group is large enough, there may be a small further reduction in the per person cost. Openings for this trip are limited, so act quickly.
According to the Pew Forum Weekly Update of June 24, 58 percent of white evangelical Christians say Jesus Christ will definitely or probably return to earth by 2050, by far the highest percentage in any religious group. Just 32 percent of Catholics, 27 percent of white mainline Protestants and 20 percent of the religiously unaffiliated predict Jesus Christ’s return to earth. Those with no college experience (59 percent) are more likely than those with some college experience (35 percent) and college graduates (19 percent) to expect Christ’s return.
Bible Readers and Debt
What is the best financial advice you will ever receive? The surprising answer is to read your Bible on a daily basis. New View (www.StateofthePlate.info) from the Pew research shows that the more faithful someone is in their daily Bible reading, the less debt they tend to have and the more likely they will be to give 10 percent or more to their church.
Church Attendance Increase
Gallup research reports more Americans are attending religious services weekly or almost weekly. Results of its study showed 43.1 percent of Americans regularly attending, up slightly from ’09 (42.8 percent) and ’08 (42.1 percent). Gallup aligns the increase with Americans’ increasing economic confidence, suggesting that more people attend church during good financial times rather than bad, as historically assumed (Gallup 6/25/10).
Prayer Requests and Updates
Pastor Gary Dry of our Lake St. Louis, Missouri, congregation and his wife, Diane, reported the pathology report for their toddler granddaughter, Laila, showed that the doctors removed all of the cancer during the surgery! Gary added:
Laila will still have to have a maintenance dose of chemotherapy as a precautionary measure, but that is all. Her strength and demeanor are improving daily and she has actually been sitting in a chair this morning. Not bad for someone who was basically sawed in two just four days ago. At this rate, the doctors think that she may get released from the hospital as early as Sunday.
We wouldn’t be where we are without your support. Thank you very much from the bottom of our hearts. Join us as we say praise be to the Lord.
Please remember Philippines pastor Ezra Raduban, who has just undergone an angioplasty. We are awaiting further information. Thank you for your prayers for him and for the rest of his family during this challenging time. Ray Griffee, our pastor in Cadillac, Michigan, sent this note of thanks:
Thank you all for your cards and prayers for me and my family. I was overwhelmed by your response. I had to have a quintuple bypass performed and it was successful. There was no damage to my heart. I am home recuperating and my doctor said that I can resume normal duties by the end of August. Thank you again for your love.
Remember that prayer is the battleground where we fight the good fight of faith. Let’s encourage everyone to join together in prayer, for we belong to Christ, and by the Spirit it is in Christ that we pray. Prayer and other spiritual activities help keep our hearts in tune with God and remind us of who we are in Christ. He is our all in all, and in him we are eternally beloved of the Father and blessed to share his good news with others.
Correction: The prayer announcement in the current Weekly Update regarding toddler Laila Dry’s surgery should have read as follows. We apologize for the confusion:
Pastor Gary Dry of our Lake St. Louis, Missouri, congregation and his wife, Diane, want to thank everyone for their prayers for their toddler granddaughter, Laila, (daughter of Kristopher and Alicia Dry) who underwent successful surgery for removal of a grapefruit sized tumor. Gary wrote:
The surgery was successful, although the surgeon said it was one of the most difficult surgeries he had ever done. The estimated five-hour surgery ended up taking over eight hours. The doctors removed the kidney and adrenal gland as well as some lymph nodes but did not have to remove any other organs. Laila will have to undergo chemotherapy, but the prognosis for her recovery is very good. She’ll spend about a week in the hospital post surgery as they look after her wounds and help her start the healing process. We truly appreciate everyone’s concern for Laila. It’s so painful to see someone so small have to endure such a trauma, but then again, her age will work greatly in her favor as she recovers. Please pass on our thanks and love to everyone.
New Hope Christian Fellowship, our GCI congregation in Pasadena, California, is excited to announce its 10th Annual Marriage Retreat on Saturday and Sunday, October 2-3 at the Doubletree Hotel in Monrovia, California. The presenters will be Bill and Pam Farrel, authors of Men are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti. During this relaxing and learning-rich weekend, the differences between men and women in the marriage relationship will be explored and celebrated from a lighthearted, Christian perspective. Bring your sense of humor and a desire to learn!
After starting as a house church December 6, 1998, our San Francisco Community Fellowship has moved into a commercial building and is now holding weekly Sunday worship services in the community where we live. We have full 24/7 access to the facility and plan to use our new space to reach out to low-income families in the area.
Thanks to all who have been praying for us. Please continue to keep us in your prayers as we reach out to serve the physical and spiritual needs of the people in our community.
Educators Prayer Walk Resources
Karen C. Seddon, a GCI member in Florida, is involved with Christian Educators Association International. Here is a link to a web page she prepared containing articles and resources for teachers who might be interested in prayer walking for their schools: http://prayerwalking.pbworks.com/
Vanuatu
From Mission Director Rod Matthews:
Invercargill, New Zealand, member and master builder, Les Evans, a member and masterbuilder from Invercargill, New Zealand, led a group from New Zealand to Vanuatu from May 30 to June 12 with the goal of completing the community room for our Rory Congregation. You will enjoy his report of working in a developing area of the Pacific. He wrote:
The short-term mission to Vanuatu was to construct a workshop and finish the [church] community room in the village of Navili, Rory, Malekula. The team of Les and Kaye Evans and Liz Bradshaw set off with the help of the New Zealand churches to establish the workshop for the making of furniture by the local people to sell to the public.
Many of the tools were to be purchased and sent to the island, ready for our arrival. Plans were laid months in advance to allow for the inevitable delays that can be experienced in the islands. However, several new problems arose. The first was the money transfer taking longer than usual and William Davies (our church elder in Santo) also had an urgent medical situation that required him and his family to travel to Fiji at the most crucial time of the planning phase.
As I’ve said several times now, we have never had the same problem twice, and there are still enough to go around for several more trips. Distance and communication are the most frustrating challenges that we encounter and no amount of preparation from far away will ever overcome this completely.
The concrete mixer was sent early but never arrived. This was one of the two machines (the chainsaw being the other) that we needed to make the foundations and the block work to start the construction of the workshop. During the last day of work on the island, after many calls during the final week, we finally found that the ship that had the concrete mixer on board had been “arrested” by the Maritime Authority for safety breaches! It would only arrive in the village after our departure!
All the concrete work and block making had to be done by hand, and the chainsaws were not ready for shipping, so a local one was sought. This one, however, was not in a good mechanical condition and needed repairs. As the parts were not available, we were not able to saw the timber necessary for the roof or to make scaffolding to lay the uppermost block rows.
Two major obstacles on the island are communication and transport. We have an interpreter who can speak both English and the local Bislama (William Davies). This doesn’t remove the problems, but at least we know about them sooner! In the past, with much repetition of “yes,” “no” and “no savvy,” and everyone talking more slowly for understanding, problems were no fewer and it took longer for them to be realized.
Transporting the sand from the beach to the work area was our next mission. The sand arrived slowly but steadily, and most of the sand for making blocks to complete the job arrived just before we left. The last blocks we were laying were extremely green and required careful handling. On a good day the concrete blocks were being made at a rate of about 60 per day with the last day making 120. Liz was able, when a good supply of sand and blocks were available, to lay up to 120 blocks in a day. The workshop needed about 450 blocks, and the community room took another 130.
The village has waited years for a piped water supply and this has been promised [by government authorities] every time we visited. The church built a concrete tank, mainly for drinking and cooking water, but this year the water supply arrived in the village the day we did! Running water is now potentially available to every house in the district of Rory. The water tank will still be used for drinking and reserve supply. The pipeline has been funded by the New Zealand Government.
One night when it was time to go home to our accommodation, the taxi didn’t arrive, and when we rang him we found that the police had “arrested” his utility truck because he had failed to pay his road tax!
The toilets didn’t work properly where we stayed and would not fill unless the center pipe [inside the cistern] was held down. We spent quite some time every day with our hands in the toilet just to get it to work! And that of course only worked when we actually had running water.
Having got the work to a certain stage we expect that the locals will be able to continue with the community room and make the remaining bricks for the workshop. When the new chainsaw arrives they will be able to cut the timber for both the community room walls and the roof of the workshop. Some members from adjoining villages also pitched in to help while we were there and the children stayed home from school for a few days so they could be of help – which they were.
As we leave the village the community is facing an added problem. The water supply that has been so long coming is in danger of becoming the center of a dispute [between other villages]. We pray that any dispute will be dealt with properly and the supply will remain running for all to use.
The village people thanked the New Zealand churches very much for the contribution made toward the construction of the new building. The building team would like to also express our thanks and appreciation for the assistance and prayer support. We also expressed our thanks to the people of the village for their hospitality and love during our time with them.
Much was done but more is needed yet and another visit to complete the task is now in the planning so we can continue to assist the local people in becoming more and more self-supporting.
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
From Pastor Doug Johannsen:
You’re all invited to our annual Dells Celebration at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, from September 30 to October 3, 2010.
Our theme this year is “On To Maturity.” Join us on this four-day journey as we examine four major areas of life that reflect maturity in our walk with Jesus.
Step 1: Reserve your room at the Kalahari by Sunday, August 29, 2010. The Kalahari is the premier family resort in the Dells featuring the world’s largest indoor water park and a new theme park. Phone 1-877-525-2427 for reservations.
Hut – $109.00 per night plus tax, 1-4 people only. Lodge Suite – $129 per night plus tax, 1-4 people only. Combination Suite (lodge and hut) – $238 per night plus tax, sleeps up to 8 people. Village – (lodge and two adjoining huts) – $347 per night plus tax, sleeps up to 12 people.
You must call the Kalahari Resort no later than August 29 to reserve your room. After August 29, the low prices we’ve negotiated will no longer be available! Let the reservation personnel know you are with Grace Communion International or Worldwide Church of God. The Kalahari reservation number is 1-877-525-2427.
Then enter: Group ID 14215 Password: 244 Contact Password (Optional): Leave this blank. Click on “Make Reservation” and follow the prompts.
Step 2: Register with Grace Communion International/Worldwide Church of God Headquarters online at: <www.wcg.org/go/wisconsin>, and follow the prompts. Pay with your credit card.
Or you may download a registration form, fill it out and mail your registration with a check to: Grace Communion International PO Box 5005 Glendora CA 91740-5005
If you do not have Internet access, contact me, Dells Coordinator Doug Johannsen, and I will mail the forms to you.
Step 3: Come celebrate Jesus with your family and friends. Enjoy good food and activities! The Kalahari is a very family activity oriented facility with a huge water park and a new theme park!
If you have any questions, contact Pastor Doug Johannsen at doug.johannsen@gci.org or by phone at 763-576-1086.
Prayer Requests and Updates
Dave Fiedler sent this update on his eye surgery:
Please thank everyone for all their prayers and loving concern as I go through this nasty trial with my eye. I had another appointment yesterday with the doctor near our home in Oregon. This was my first visit to him as we had to spend over three months in Wisconsin as I went through the three eye surgeries and recoveries there. After he thoroughly examined my eye he said the retinal detachments and tears were so bad that I should be blind. He complimented my doctor in Wisconsin for saving it as much as he had. (And thank you Jesus that I still have some sight in the eye!) He is sending me to the best doctors in Oregon, who practice in Portland, in a couple weeks for a fourth surgery. Though I can see, I still have double vision and considerable distortion due to scar tissue buildup. There is also a little fluid under the retina. They will go in and remove that fluid, trim the edge of the retina and try to scrape away the scar tissue which is obstructing my present vision. The third one wasn’t the charm, so let’s pray the fourth one will be.
By the way, the doctor said my right eye looks good. Praise God!
Pastor Gary Dry of our Lake St. Louis, Missouri, congregation and his wife, Diane, want to thank everyone for their prayers for their toddler granddaughter, Laila, (daughter of Kristopher and Alicia Dry) who underwent successful surgery for removal of a grapefruit sized tumor. Gary wrote:
The surgery was successful, although the surgeon said it was one of the most difficult surgeries he had ever done. The estimated five-hour surgery ended up taking over eight hours. The doctors removed the kidney and adrenal gland as well as some lymph nodes but did not have to remove any other organs. Laila will have to undergo chemotherapy, but the prognosis for her recovery is very good. She’ll spend about a week in the hospital post surgery as they look after her wounds and help her start the healing process. We truly appreciate everyone’s concern for Laila. It’s so painful to see someone so small have to endure such a trauma, but then again, her age will work greatly in her favor as she recovers. Please pass on our thanks and love to everyone.
Edna Barr, wife of Pastor Al Barr of our Manhattan, New York, congregation sent this update on Al’s health. She wrote:
I am sending this update on Al’s condition. He will be sending it from now on, either by typing it himself, or by dictation. He had a lot of energy at the conference due to the steroids, which are a part of the cancer treatment. However, at that dosage, they were keeping him from sleeping at night. They were also making his face look fatter, although it didn’t appear swollen. At the last visit to the doctor, she agreed to reduce the steroid dosage. As a result, Al has been less energetic, but has been able to sleep much better. Al’s update and comments follow.
Al added: I want to thank everybody for their prayers and cards and concern. The tumor that was on my right back side has completely disappeared. I am still taking chemotherapy twice a week. There are a few side effects from the chemo, but not as bad as I thought it would be. Because the cancer is no longer visible does not mean I am cancer-free yet. I still have to have a PET scan and a bone marrow biopsy to make sure all the cancer cells are gone. My oncologist wants to continue treatment for another month before doing those tests. She is very pleased with the progress so far. It has been humbling to know that people around the world have been praying for me. I am extremely thankful. I am taking it one day at a time until I am fully recovered from this.
Remember that prayer is the battleground where we fight the good fight of faith. Let’s encourage everyone to join together in prayer, for we belong to Christ, and by the Spirit it is in Christ that we pray. Prayer and other spiritual activities help keep our hearts in tune with God and remind us of who we are in Christ. He is our all in all, and in him we are eternally beloved of the Father and blessed to share his good news with others.
Simply put, the Orlando Conference was grand! I received hundreds of comments not only expressing joy and renewal, but also that we consider having it every other year instead of every third year.
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The following link will get you to three songs of Juan Barrero, son of Hector and Paulina Barerro. He and his brother assist in worship leading in Colombia and they also attended our Orlando Conference. http://www.youtube.com/user/peapleee
Recruiting Church Planters and Pastors
Members of the CAD, CMM and GenMin staff met with Drs. Gary Deddo and Elmer Colyer to discuss strategies for recruiting church planters, pastors and interns for GCI. The meetings took place during the GCI International Conference in Orlando, FL. Drs. Deddo and Colyer are willing to provide assistance that will enable CAD to recruit seminary students and graduates who embrace Trinitarian theology.
GenMin camps
Texas
The new “Heart O’ Texas” GenMin camp was launched in the Dallas area in June. Fifteen campers and 17 staffers made it a tremendous success. The most memorable activity was the “Acts of Random Kindness” (ARK) event. Four groups, dressed in Heart O’ Texas t-shirts, went into the community performing acts of kindness for neighboring businesses. Each group was given $10 seed money and an hour and a half to come up with their ideas and to accomplish their acts of kindness. Some purchased small gifts and handed them to children at a gas station, others offered to sweep sidewalks. Some purchased cleaning materials to clean windows, others offered to spruce up merchandise on store shelves, open doors for customers, and pick up trash in parking lots. Each group then came back with exciting stories of responses. A group of boys went to a donut shop and offered to wash the windows. When the job was finished, the proprietor handed the boys a full box of donuts – the boys said, “no you don’t have to give us donuts – we just want to help out.” With that the lady promptly stacked a second full box of donuts on the first, and before she was finished, gave them a third! Later that evening, the campers and staff recounted the many blessings they received by serving others. Some noticed store customers joining in and helping others. God’s grace is contagious!
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Minnesota
“Northern Light 2010” was this camp’s fourth year of operation. There were 30 campers age 9 to 17 served by 27 staffers. Through ELATION! (our GenMin teaching curriculum) the campers and staffers uncovered nuggets of joy in the relationship that we are given with God in Christ. Campers enjoyed canoeing, archery, pond life (biology), firearms, tree top courses, rock climbing, orienteering, cup stacking, fishing, worship leading, Bible reading and study, Prayer 101, Miss Manners, an Amazing Race game and several other activities. Worship leading class was a high point for many. Each camper group prepared a chapel service and then led the chapel worship service. We enjoyed some pretty exciting worship! An additional blessing this year was to see several young emerging leaders step up. We will give them greater leadership opportunities next year.
Pakistan
From Rod Matthews:
Near the end of May, there was a natural disaster of immense proportions in north-eastern Pakistan near the border with Kashmir. After heavy rain, a massive landslide in a gorge blocked the fast-flowing Hunza River and created a growing lake. As the waters built up behind the rock slide (see picture), they flooded the valley upstream, entering low-lying areas and inundating many villages. Tens of thousands of people left their homes as entire towns disappeared under the water, and crops were submerged. According to initial disaster assessment reports, around 30,000 affected people have been displaced.
On May 25, our ministry partner in Pakistan, Dr. Muqaddam Zia, reported that the Pakistan Army had established 30 relief camps since the people had lost everything and food was in short supply. But the numbers needing help outstripped what the authorities and humanitarian organizations could provide.
Dr. Zia said at the time, “We are making plans to launch a relief project with items including food, milk, tents and generators for the affected/displaced people of Hunza. There are hundreds of children in open air without any shelter and food, etc. and have been at a high risk. Pakistan’s government is already under fire for its handling of crippling power cuts, its struggle to contain a Taliban insurgency and efforts to strengthen a sluggish economy. It can ill-afford a catastrophe like widespread flooding. These areas are one of the most unreached and least evangelized areas of the world. This relief project will also open doors for the gospel. Please join us in prayer and if possible, please sow a seed in this initiative. Any seed, small or large, will certainly help us launch this initiative.”
In response, we sent him A$1,000 from our CarePac emergency fund to help provide materials and supplies for his relief expedition, which left Faisalabad for the Hunza area on May 30.
Later, Dr. Zia sent us some photos taken during his distribution of relief aid.
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India
Rod Matthews wrote:
Dr. Piria Suntharam, a church member, and his wife Banu Priya, run a home and orphanage for disadvantaged children in the rural village of Kalthanipadi in the state of Tamil Nadu.
In early May this year, they were riding a motorcycle in a remote village when another cycle hit them, injuring them severely. They both suffered head and leg injuries, but had to look after themselves because there was no transport or hospital nearby. Dr. Suntharam took action to stop the bleeding until help arrived. Both spent time in hospital and have recovered from their head injuries, but Mrs. Suntharam’s severe leg and foot injury is still giving her problems. It took a three-hour operation to reconstruct her ligaments and dislocated toes. The healing is slow, and she still suffers pain and walks with difficulty. She may yet need skin grafts. Unfortunately, the healing is complicated by diabetes. Mrs. Suntharam would be encouraged to know that others are praying for her complete healing.
The home and orphanage cares for 40 boys and girls who cannot be supported by their parents for various reasons. Not only do the Suntharams have the responsibility of nurturing the children, but there are onerous laws to comply with because unscrupulous people have tried to take advantage of orphans.
The government requires all orphanages to be licensed annually after an incident in the same state in which an orphanage was found to be selling orphans. After a lot of paperwork, official recognition of this facility should be complete within weeks.
There is another government requirement that an orphanage must have a six-foot high compound wall around the property to protect the people inside. To construct such a wall around this rural property is estimated to cost 1.5 million rupees (about US$32,000 or A$36,500). Dr. Suntharam and the orphanage are highly regarded in the local community, and with the help of a very supportive local Member of the Legislative Assembly, he has gained some government assistance for infrastructure development to cover over half the costs. Something that seemed to be outside the realm of possibility now seems feasible as long the authorities permit a reasonable time frame for construction.
The church in Australia funded the construction of a septic tank, but work has been delayed due to unseasonal rain. Just below the soil level, there is rock from which a pit had to be chipped out to allow for the tank. But groundwater seeps from the bottom and sides of the pit when it rains. So when it is completed, the tank has to keep some water in and other water out. The toilets are completed but cannot be used until the septic tank is completed.
Our congregation in Bangalore, pastored by Joe D’Costa, and some of the teachers at the school where Joanna D’Costa teaches have donated money, books, stationery, clothes, stainless steel plates, toys, mosquito nets and other materials to the orphanage. Joe also gave Dr. Suntharam an old but functioning computer which his son, Mark, set up. Dr. Suntharam and the children were thrilled because it offers them new educational opportunities beyond what is available at the nearby school that the young people attend.
Prayer Requests and Updates:
District Superintendent Lorenzo Arroyo sent me an update after completing tests with his doctor.He wrote:
I was diagnosed with prostate cancer at the end of June. After seeing three specialists along with taking several exams and tests, it has boiled down to radiation as the primary treatment. Surgical removal of the prostate gland and lymph nodes was ruled out because of two prior surgeries (perforated diverticula). There is too much scar tissue to do laparoscopic surgery, and conventional surgery would just add more scar tissue. The doctors have opted for 8 weeks M-F of precision imaging radiation as well as 1-2 years of hormone therapy (one injection per month). God’s blessing comes in the surprise that the radiation facility is just 2 1/2 blocks from our home. Your prayers are much appreciated.
Cards may be sent to: Lorenzo and Rita Arroyo 4035 Mount Day CT ANTIOCH, CA 94531-8279
Paul Miller, pastor of Mountain Home Arkansas, died Thursday, July 23 from the effects of Mesothelioma. Paul was known as a kind, gentle, joyful and humble servant and friend. Mary wanted to thank everyone for the cards and calls that meant so much to them as Paul’s health declined.
Cards may be sent to: Mary Miller 422 Hwy 14 S Yellville, AR 72687-7501
Remember that prayer is the battleground where we fight the good fight of faith. Let’s encourage everyone to join together in prayer, for we belong to Christ, and by the Spirit it is in Christ that we pray. Prayer and other spiritual activities help keep our hearts in tune with God and remind us of who we are in Christ. He is our all in all, and in him we are eternally beloved of the Father and blessed to share his good news with others.
While I am attending our GCI International Conference in Orlando, I thought it might be helpful to share with you two websites a fellow pastor told me about. The two sites are snopes.com and truthorfiction.com. Their goal is to help you determine whether information you receive by email is true or false.
Here are a couple of examples I found helpful from snopes.com:
Any time you see an email that says “forward this on to 10 (or however many) of your friends,” or “click to sign this petition or you’ll get bad luck,” or “pass this on and you’ll get good luck,” or “you’ll see something funny on your screen after you send this,” or whatever —
The host sender is getting a copy each time it gets forwarded and then is able to get lists of active email addresses to use in SPAM emails or sell to other spammers. Even when you get emails that demand you send the email on “if you’re not ashamed of God or Jesus,” they are email tracking, and they are playing on your conscience. These people don’t care how they get your email addresses just as long as they get them.
Also, emails that talk about a missing child or a child with an incurable disease, saying “how would you feel if that was your child,” are email tracking. Ignore them and don’t participate!
Almost all emails that ask you to add your name and forward them on to others are similar to that mass letter years ago that asked people to send business cards to the little kid in Florida who wanted to break the Guinness Book of Records for the most cards. All it was, and all any of this type of email is, is a way to get names and cookie tracking information for telemarketers and spammers.
Email “petitions” are also a scam. Real petitions are only acceptable if they have a signed signature and full address of the person signing the petition.
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Remember that prayer is the battleground where we fight the good fight of faith. Let’s encourage everyone to join together in prayer, for we belong to Christ, and by the Spirit it is in Christ that we pray. Prayer and other spiritual activities help keep our hearts in tune with God and remind us of who we are in Christ. He is our all in all, and in him we are eternally beloved of the Father and blessed to share his good news with others.
The National Association of Evangelicals is asking member churches to observe July 18, 2010, as a National Day of Prayer for the Gulf by setting aside time in their weekend services to pray for the people of the Gulf and the impact of the oil spill.
Our Louisiana summer camp recently posted this six-minute video on YouTube: Teen Camp 2010
Mexico
From Lee Berger:
Neighborhood children gather for Bible lesson.
2010 was the fifth summer for our Crossing Borders mission camp to reach out across the Mexican border with the good news of Jesus Christ. Rather than show up and try to act as an independent program, we assist and supplement the work of a wide variety of local ministries—partnering with Jesus in Mexico.
During the weeklong camp, we participated in a variety of ministry opportunities. The purpose of Crossing Borders is to serve as a “sampler mission camp.” We lead attendees to try out a wide variety of mission-based events to catch the vision of where and how God is already at work and to see where and how they can join in, whether in another country or in their own home town.
Pam & Mat Morgan & Lee Berger offer prayer for homeless man and provide him with socks and other necessities.
This year we helped distribute cases of food supplies to about 50 pastors and ministry leaders to take back to their people. We delivered a hot meal and packages filled with socks, soap, toothpaste and other necessities to 60 scattered homeless people living on the streets (and we prayed individually with many of them). For about 150 children in impoverished neighborhoods, we conducted three Vacation Bible School sessions, including Bible lessons, games, crafts, fun songs and snacks. We visited group children’s homes, taking time to personally play with, feed and care for children growing up without their natural parents or families. We assisted with work service projects, toured a Bible school, and participated in outdoor evangelical dramas and other events.
In all our activities, our goal was to be intentional at communicating how God as Father, Son and Spirit is intimately and lovingly connected to the lives of every person we met. Too often the gospel message comes across as a demanding, judgmental, guilt-producing religion of an angry God. In contrast, we wanted people to know that God loves each of them, he’s forgiven them, he accepts them, and he’s included them in his eternal plan.
Our 15 missionaries-in-training from five states experienced the joy of making an important positive difference in the lives of many new friends in Mexico. Our minds and hearts were opened in new ways, and our lives were radically transformed in the process. Isn’t God amazing? When you make the effort to serve others, you end up reaping wonderful benefits for yourself.
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Crossing Borders is open to anyone ages 15 to 99. Come on your own, bring a friend, or attend with family members. To find out more about next summer’s camp and our winter shoebox ministry, go to www.cbmission.org or call 903-746-4463.
Photos by Janet Morrison, Pam Morgan and Lee Berger
Correction: The July 7 Weekly Update should have reported that Pastor Eric Warren will be replacing Pastor Doug Smith (not Pastor Eric Wilding, as the Update stated) when Doug retires later this year.
Prayer request and update:
Please pray that the international conference in Orlando will be a time of renewal for GCI and all who attend and that God’s desires for this event will be fulfilled. Some of the attendees have already started their travels and we pray that their travels will be blessed and that they will all arrive safely. May God use this time to refresh and renew us in our participation in his mission.
From Rod Matthews: George Nake & family
Derek Jiru, pastor of our congregation in Qiloe, Ranongga, in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, informed us that George Nake, son of Qiloe village and paramount chief and member, Timothy Nake, has been diagnosed with leukemia. On Ranongga there are no medical facilities, electricity supply or roads. Medical care is only available at the hospital on the neighboring island of Gizo, which is a two-hour trip away across the strait by small boat with an outboard motor. The doctors have told George that there is little they can do for him in the way of treatment. We understand that he is having trouble speaking due to the inflammation around his throat and neck. His prognosis for the future is uncertain.
George and his wife Amellin have six young children. George is a member of our Qiloe church board and has been church treasurer for some years – serving in a most careful, responsible and diligent way. He is in his early 40’s. Solomon’s pastoral coordinator, Doug Lewis said that “they are a most engaging couple. George has always been very fun-loving but most serious about his calling. Amellin is a very sweet lady and devoted mum and servant. It was always a great delight and a privilege to share time with them.”
Your prayers for George, Amellin and their children, his parents and all the church community in Qiloe would be appreciated by them.
Henry Kuper
National Coordinator for the Solomon Islands, Henry Kuper, is currently back in hospital in Honiara for the removal of a kidney stone. Henry was in hospital some weeks ago suffering from an infection of the pancreas and of the liver, complicated by diabetes which is now under control. Henry and his wife live in the far southeast of the country on the island of Santa Ana, and medical treatment of this nature necessitates a long journey by boat and/or plane to reach the hospital in the national capital.
Al Barr
Al Barr sends his special thanks to everyone for their prayers on his behalf. His chemotherapy has begun, and so far he is tolerating it well. He is also pleased that his doctor said he could travel to Orlando for the conference.
Remember that prayer is the battleground where we fight the good fight of faith. Let’s encourage everyone to join together in prayer, for we belong to Christ, and by the Spirit it is in Christ that we pray. Prayer and other spiritual activities help keep our hearts in tune with God and remind us of who we are in Christ. He is our all in all, and in him we are eternally beloved of the Father and blessed to share his good news with others.
Love from my family to yours, Joseph Tkach
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Correction: In the July 7 Weekly Update, there was an error in the address for the family of elder Kenn Allbright. The suite was given incorrectly as “Suite 21”. The correct address is “Suite 215”.
Allbright Family 550 Club Dr. Suite 215 Montgomery, TX 77316-3190
Remember that prayer is the battleground where we fight the good fight of faith. Let’s encourage everyone to join together in prayer, for we belong to Christ, and by the Spirit it is in Christ that we pray. Prayer and other spiritual activities help keep our hearts in tune with God and remind us of who we are in Christ. He is our all in all, and in him we are eternally beloved of the Father and blessed to share his good news with others.
On Sunday, Church Multiplication Ministries director Randy Bloom visited their worship service and participated in their outreach activity Sunday afternoon. Attendance at the worship service was 44, with about a dozen visitors, a few of them previously non-churched. The outreach activity was a pool party and cookout at the apartment complex where they hold their worship service. Several people from the complex enjoyed the food and met members of Ground Zero.
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Two weekends ago, we visited three congregations in the Johannesburg/Pretoria area. We met with the Raslow congregation on Saturday morning, the Johannesburg Central congregation on Sunday morning, and then the Sizwe church plant on Sunday afternoon. The Sizwe congregation consists of people who are in the Sizwe hospital. This hospital serves those who are suffering from extremely difficult to treat cases of tuberculosis and AIDS. These are the cases that have become resistant to normal drug treatments.
I spoke about God’s love and the fact that he has already secured our salvation through Jesus Christ. It but remains for us to say “yes” to what God has done, and choose to enter the father/child relationship with him through Jesus Christ. Speaking to that group, who have so little hope in this life, and being able to simply be a mouthpiece to express God’s love for each one of them and what he desires for each of them, was both humbling and an honor. Wendy and I left services moved by what we saw, and we will be keeping the people there in our prayers on a regular basis. Pastors Grant and Papike set a wonderful example of Christian ministry in the way they serve this congregation with love and tenderness.
Finally, last weekend we were able to fly four hours to the island of Mauritius on the Indian Ocean to enjoy two days of vacation (the beaches and coral reef are wonderful), followed by meeting with the congregation on the weekend. The island is primarily French speaking, but English is widely understood. It is a beautiful place, in some ways physically reminiscent of Hawaii. The culture is heavily influenced by Asian influences. We have a thriving congregation of 40 on the island. Wendy and I presented two messages on Saturday and two on Sunday, which seemed to be very well received. Yves and Lisbie Nayna, and Benedict and Mary Joyce Moutou pastor the members very well. We much enjoyed our time with them.
