Midland Group Reports Chinese Officials Relent, Adventist Church Allowed to Worship

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Midland Group Reports Chinese Officials Relent, Adventist Church Allowed to Worship

Released by ChinaAid, May, 2010 ...

"SHANDONG, CHINA – On May 1, members of Jinan Seventh-Day Adventist Church were once again allowed to meet at their rented site, having been forced to worship outdoors for more than two months, following a raid by Shandong Public Security officials on February 27."
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

HOT Topics at First Prez: Next Sunday

Ten theologians ... ten challenges to faith ... twelve weeks this summer. You are invited to attend a special summer Sunday Schools series at First Presbyterian Church-Midland, addressing ten issues that are obstacles to faith for many both in and outside of the church.

Ten Christian and Jewish theologians, world experts in their respective fields as well as people of faith, were each asked to address a single perplexing issue, such as the existence of evil or the relationship between religion and science. The result is the "Serious Answers" course prepared by Wesley Ministry Network, which will encourage energetic discussion and sustained reflection by both believers and seekers.

The series - mixing video presentations with live discussion among attendees - will be offered Sundays, June 6 - August 22, 9:30-10:30 a.m. in Lynn Fellowship Hall at First Prez-Midland, on the northwest corner of A and Texas streets, on the west edge of downtown Midland.

All adults are welcome!

1. Evil - R. Kendall Soulen, Wesley Theological Seminary
2. Religion and Science - John Polkinghorne, Cambridge University
3. Other Religions - Sathianathan Clarke, Wesley Theological Seminary
4. Evangelism and Tolerance - Scott Jones, Bishop; formerly Perkins Schl. Theo.
5. The God of the Old Testament - Amy-Jill Levine, Vanderbilt Divinity School
6. Jesus and Christianity - Richard B. Hays, Duke Divinity School
7. Resurrection - N.T. Wright, Bishop; formerly Oxford University
8. The Gnostic Gospels - Ben Witherington, Asbury Theological Seminary
9. The Sins of the Church - Douglas M. Strong, Wesley Theological Seminary
10. Forgiveness - L. Gregory Jones, Duke Divinity School (Dean)

Rolling Mission

Founded in 2001, Free Wheelchair Mission is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to providing wheelchairs for the impoverished disabled in developing nations. Headquartered in Irvine, California, FWM works around the world in partnership with a vast network of humanitarian, faith-based and government organizations, sending wheelchairs to hundreds of thousands of disabled people, providing not only the gift of mobility, but of dignity, independence, and hope.

"Our mission is to transform lives through the gift of mobility to

the physically disabled poor in developing countries

as motivated by Jesus Christ.
Our vision is to provide 20 million wheelchairs."

Want to take one for a test drive? During normal business hours, visit the lobby at the Texas Street entrance of First Presbyterian Church-Midland, at the northwest corner of Texas and A streets, on the west side of downtown Midland. For $51.29, you can give the gift of mobility. You can donate by mailing FWC, calling them, or visiting their website.

Free Wheelchair Mission
9341 Irvine Boulevard
Irvine, CA 92618

(800) 733-0858

www.freewheelchairmission.org/

ServLife International Online Auction Wraps-up Tomorrow

ServLife International is a movement defined by values of God’s kingdom, not programs built around human efforts and activities. The reign and rule of God should be made apparent to every person on the planet, despite their religion, race or socioeconomic status. We believe that issues of justice are inseparable from the good news that Jesus Christ came to proclaim. ServLife exists to take the gospel of Christ and the hope of a better, more just, world to the lives of people we touch. This happens through individual contributions of time, creativity, resources and dreams.

ServLife International Online Auction Wraps-up Tomorrow

ServLife is excited to announce their first online auction, taking place May 15-30. The items that will be featured range from a week-long stay in Florida to a one hour photo session with a professional photographer. The auction items have been donated by a variety of artists and people. All proceeds will benefit the work of ServLife around the world.

All bids will be made online and once a bid is submitted it is binding and you are responsible for payment if the auction closes and your bid is the current winning bid. If you don’t have access to the Internet, you may call ServLife's office (317) 544-0484, and one of our staff members will complete a form for you over the phone.

Reports From Lulwanda: March, 2010

Every month, Lulwanda Administrator Edward Mukiibi provides an update on Lulwanda Children's Home in Uganda – how the children are growing and learning, how the staff is developing, and any ongoing needs that may arise.

---

March, 2010
"There have been many activities going on concurrently, but we thank God who has enabled us to go through them all. The Children have grown and seems to be okay. We are making effort to ensure that they grow into adults we can all be proud of."

CLICK HERE to read the rest of Mukibi's March, 2010 report.

FBR Report: "Good Life Club" Video

The Free Burma Rangers (FBR) is a multi-ethnic humanitarian service movement. They bring help, hope and love to people in the war zones of Burma. Ethnic pro-democracy groups send teams to be trained, supplied and sent into the areas under attack to provide emergency assistance and human rights documentation. Together with other groups, the teams work to serve people in need.

"Good Life Club" Video

Word from Uganda: "Pamela's Introduction Ceremony"

Missionary teacher Natalie Rolfe writes, "'When He calls me, I will answer ... I'll be somewhere working for my Lord.' My call was Mbale, Uganda and that is where I have returned to serve for another year. Specifically, I am teaching phonics at Lulwanda Children's Home, an orphanage and school for 90 kids." Natalie also keeps an online journal of her service at the weblog, When He calls me, I will answer ...

Pamela's Introduction Ceremony

"I have decided that I like introduction ceremonies much more than weddings,” Natalie writes. "The wedding is the same expected thing and can last for quite some time (depending on how late the bride is and how long the pastor preaches). But introduction ceremonies are always slightly different from the last one.”

CLICK HERE to read the rest of Natalie's post

If you are interested in supporting LCH by sponsoring one of the 90 children, go to www.ugandaorphans.org If you are interested in financially supporting Natalie in her mission, you can send checks (with "Natalie Rolfe" in memo) to: Midland Bible Church, 2800 North A Street, Midland, TX 79705

Midland Group Reports Christian Prisoner in China Sees Wife, Children for First Time in Years

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Midland Group Reports Christian Prisoner in China Sees Wife, Children for First Time in Years

Released by ChinaAid, April, 2010 ...

"XINJIANG REGION, CHINA – Separated by the glass wall, Gulinuer and Alimujiang’s two sons stared at their father for the first time in over two years. On April 20, under international pressure thanks to years of legal advocacy and raising public awareness, the Xinjiang Kashgar Prison authorities allowed the Uyghur Christian prisoner to meet with his wife, children, mother, and sister for a brief 15 minute conversation—the first personal contact the family has had with Alim since he was first detained in January 2008."
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

In the News ... "That old time religion"

Gospel music workshop coming to Odessa
Roy Waggoner
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - He’s sang since he was a little kid, and gospel singer/songwriter Malcolm Williams hopes to share some of his insight through a workshop by the West Texas chapter of the Gospel Music Workshop of America.

"Gospel means ‘good news,’ and it’s important for there to be a smile on the face of everybody that hears it," Williams said.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

Mid-Cities Haiti Mission: May 23

A mission team from Mid-Cities Community Church is delivering medical supplies and other expressions of Christ's love to Haiti, ravaged by an earthquake in January. They will stay a week. You can follow the team's progress, with daily updates on the church's "Missions" Twitter page at twitter.com/mccmissions

May 23

After a 2 1/2 hour line to get into airport ... we r finally on our way home ... bittersweet moment
Photo on twitpic.com

The team is on Texas soil!! Manny & I have to drive his truck back, but rest of team will be flying in to Midland tonight!!

HOT Topics at First Prez: June 6

Ten theologians ... ten challenges to faith ... twelve weeks this summer. You are invited to attend a special summer Sunday Schools series at First Presbyterian Church-Midland, addressing ten issues that are obstacles to faith for many both in and outside of the church.

Ten Christian and Jewish theologians, world experts in their respective fields as well as people of faith, were each asked to address a single perplexing issue, such as the existence of evil or the relationship between religion and science. The result is the "Serious Answers" course prepared by Wesley Ministry Network, which will encourage energetic discussion and sustained reflection by both believers and seekers.

The series - mixing video presentations with live discussion among attendees - will be offered Sundays, June 6 - August 22, 9:30-10:30 a.m. in Lynn Fellowship Hall at First Prez-Midland, on the northwest corner of A and Texas streets, on the west edge of downtown Midland.

All adults are welcome!

1. Evil - R. Kendall Soulen, Wesley Theological Seminary
2. Religion and Science - John Polkinghorne, Cambridge University
3. Other Religions - Sathianathan Clarke, Wesley Theological Seminary
4. Evangelism and Tolerance - Scott Jones, Bishop; formerly Perkins Schl. Theo.
5. The God of the Old Testament - Amy-Jill Levine, Vanderbilt Divinity School
6. Jesus and Christianity - Richard B. Hays, Duke Divinity School
7. Resurrection - N.T. Wright, Bishop; formerly Oxford University
8. The Gnostic Gospels - Ben Witherington, Asbury Theological Seminary
9. The Sins of the Church - Douglas M. Strong, Wesley Theological Seminary
10. Forgiveness - L. Gregory Jones, Duke Divinity School (Dean)

Get to Know and Appreciate "Stushie"

Last month, to illustrate a post about Easter, I used a scan from an old church brochure. The illustration on that brochure was uncredited, and so was the scan used in my post ...

... but no longer. Thanks to the incredible connectivity possible through the use of the internet, my post received a comment from none other than the artist himself. John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. But he is perhaps better known to those who regularly visit faith- and art-based blogs as "Stushie." As a matter of fact, he is one of my fellow contributors to the Presbyterian Blogring!

"Thanks for using my drawing. it's actually called Red Dawn," he wrote. "If you would like to see a larger version please go to the following link."

You can also enjoy his work (both his images and his words) at Stushie's Stuff, Heaven's Highway and Stushie's Art ... and you can listen to him on Stushie's Stuff Podcasts!

Got Prayer? ... Got Bear?

Available now at First Presbyterian Church-Midland

(there's no charge ... just look for one of the baskets inside any of the main doors of the church, which is located on the northwest corner of Texas and A streets, at the west edge of downtown Midland)

Dear Friend,
I'm Just a teddy bear, it's true,
but I have a message to bring to you;
I've been to church, and sat in a pew,
and I've been hugged by quite a few;
I've bowed my head when they said a prayer;
I've been charged with love by those who care.
And now I've come to live with you -
to bring you joy when you are blue,
to let you know that others care
and want all your days and nights to share.
So keep me close and squeeze me tight,
and know God's love makes all things right.
With our prayers for you,
In Touch Ministry, First Presbyterian Church

When you've had your time with me,
maybe you can set me free
to someone else who needs a prayer,
to show that God is always there.

ServLife International Online Auction Continues This Week

ServLife International is a movement defined by values of God’s kingdom, not programs built around human efforts and activities. The reign and rule of God should be made apparent to every person on the planet, despite their religion, race or socioeconomic status. We believe that issues of justice are inseparable from the good news that Jesus Christ came to proclaim. ServLife exists to take the gospel of Christ and the hope of a better, more just, world to the lives of people we touch. This happens through individual contributions of time, creativity, resources and dreams.

ServLife International Online Auction Continues This Week

ServLife is excited to announce their first online auction, taking place May 15-30. The items that will be featured range from a week-long stay in Florida to a one hour photo session with a professional photographer. The auction items have been donated by a variety of artists and people. All proceeds will benefit the work of ServLife around the world.

All bids will be made online and once a bid is submitted it is binding and you are responsible for payment if the auction closes and your bid is the current winning bid. If you don’t have access to the Internet, you may call ServLife's office (317) 544-0484, and one of our staff members will complete a form for you over the phone.

Mid-Cities Haiti Mission: May 21

A mission team from Mid-Cities Community Church is delivering medical supplies and other expressions of Christ's love to Haiti, ravaged by an earthquake in January. They will stay a week. You can follow the team's progress, with daily updates on the church's "Missions" Twitter page at twitter.com/mccmissions

May 21

This baby came in unconscious, after a seizure ... we prayed b4 treating ... he woke with this smile
Photo on twitpic.com

In the News ... "West Texans to join people around the globe in 'prayer for the world'"

By Megan Lea Buck
Assistant Lifestyle Editor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

ODESSA-MIDLAND, TEXAS -
This Sunday, several West Texas congregations will join people around the world in prayer.

Now in its 10th year, Global Day of Prayer began in South Africa after Christian businessman Graham Power organized a day of repentance and prayer at a rugby stadium in Cape Town. By last year the event had grown to include 220 countries around the world.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Mid-Cities Haiti Mission: May 20

A mission team from Mid-Cities Community Church is delivering medical supplies and other expressions of Christ's love to Haiti, ravaged by an earthquake in January. They will stay a week. You can follow the team's progress, with daily updates on the church's "Missions" Twitter page at twitter.com/mccmissions

May 20

Village Sol Lilo, set up clinic with 1 table, a tarp & on a bridge with this view
Photo on twitpic.com

Lots of sick babies ...

Using wooden benches to work on patients ...

Saw over 200 people in 5 hrs, had to shut down early because bridge started swaying ... pics to follow.

Lots of photos on twitpic.com

Reports From Lulwanda: February, 2010

Every month, Lulwanda Administrator Edward Mukiibi provides an update on Lulwanda Children's Home in Uganda – how the children are growing and learning, how the staff is developing, and any ongoing needs that may arise.

---

February, 2010
"The School is progressing on well and the children are enjoying the routine and all the school activities. From the community we have received about 30 children who commute daily. We are making effort to set a good standard and make our school competitive so that the world may come to realize the hidden potential of once forgotten children as they grow and excel academically to serve communities and nations."

CLICK HERE to read the rest of Mukibi's February, 2010 report.

In the News ... "Least of these"

Roy Waggoner
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - The challenge, for those who choose to accept it, is "loving loud" by helping Sherwood Baptist Church sponsor at least one room at the Hope House for cancer patients.

One of the adult Sunday school classes is challenging other churches and people in Odessa to take up just that mission as they take on the financial responsibility of stocking the room with paper supplies, pantry food items and other resources intended to make life more comfortable for those getting treatment at the West Texas Cancer Center.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

Mid-Cities Haiti Mission: May 19

A mission team from Mid-Cities Community Church is delivering medical supplies and other expressions of Christ's love to Haiti, ravaged by an earthquake in January. They will stay a week. You can follow the team's progress, with daily updates on the church's "Missions" Twitter page at twitter.com/mccmissions

May 19

Very looooong day at the clinic...dental extractions, oral surgery, malaria, ear infections, impetigo...so worth every second!!

Still all smiles after a hot & exhausting day :)

We were just praying & r so thankful...we were able to treat over 200 people in just 7 hrs!!

Lots of photos on twitpic.com

FBR Report: "White Monkey" Video

The Free Burma Rangers (FBR) is a multi-ethnic humanitarian service movement. They bring help, hope and love to people in the war zones of Burma. Ethnic pro-democracy groups send teams to be trained, supplied and sent into the areas under attack to provide emergency assistance and human rights documentation. Together with other groups, the teams work to serve people in need.

"White Monkey" Video

Faces of Children: Prayer Requests

Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Our mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, we seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).

Prayer Concerns for the week of 05/19/10

Afghanistan
• Please keep the school girls of Afghanistan held close in prayer as many have been sickened by suspected gas attacks at their schools. Pray for a complete recovery for the girls and teachers who have become ill in the attacks.
• Pray for those responsible for the suspected gas attacks-that they will be caught and held accountable for their actions. Pray for law enforcement and government officials - that they will uphold laws to protect women.
• Pray for the safety of all girls and their female teachers in Afghanistan. The Taliban prohibited girls from receiving an education during their rule from 1996 until 2001 and in many rural areas, girls' schools are still closed. Please pray for girls and teachers in these rural areas who have been threatened or attacked with acid.
A report from the alertnet.org
Another report from alertnet.org

India
• Please keep the family and friends of Amigo Shimray, a Youth With A Mission (YWAM) team member, held close in prayer. Amigo's sudden and unexpected death earlier this month leaves his wife Rejeena to care for their three foster children-9-year-old Shivan, 11-year-old Kuljeet, and 13-year-old Celena-and 4-year-old daughter, Jonnina. Pray that God will comfort them all and provide for them in this time of crisis and difficulty. Give thanks to God for the life of Amigo and his love of and devotion to Jesus Christ.

Kenya (CURE International - http://www.helpcurenow.org/)
• Pray for the disabled children receiving treatment at the CURE International Hospital in Kenya and for the medical staff and caregivers there. Also pray for two teenage girls: 16-year-old Metrine and 19-year-old Kesia.

United States
• Please keep Bergen held close in prayer as this newborn recovers from heart surgery. Pray for complete healing and for peace and comfort
for Bergen's family.
• Pray for Deborah, a young, single mother raising a 4-year-old son and working on her college education. Pray that God will surround her with a caring and supportive community as she completes her education. Pray for her little boy, that he too will feel the love of a community of family and friends. Pray that this small family will recognize God's presence and love in their lives.
• Please keep the family of Grant Wichmann, a U.S. Marine who was recently killed in Afghanistan, held close in prayer as they mourn his death. Pray that God will surround his wife and 10-month-old baby with a strong support system and that God will provide for their needs. Pray for his parents and extended family and friends. Pray that God will comfort them all and bring them peace.
• Pray for 11-year-old Matthew who has struggled with cancer for more than half of his young life. Please pray for discernment for Matthew and his family as they make important decisions about his care. Pray that God will hold them close in an embrace of love and support during this difficult time. Pray for Matthew's complete healing from cancer and that he won't have any recurring cancer.
• Please keep 5-year-old Drew, 3-year-old Carly, and their parents held close in prayer during this frightening time in their lives. Their mother is undergoing treatment for breast cancer and will have surgery soon. Pray for healing and comfort for their mother Julie and strength for their father Bryan.
• Pray that God will protect and comfort 2-year-old Steven* and 4-year-old Mariah* who were recently removed from their foster parents' home and reunited with their biological mother. Please pray that these children and their mother will be able to make a smooth transition to living together again. Pray that their mother will continue to grow and mature into the mother her children need and that she will be open to God's guidance and healing presence. Pray for the foster parents and siblings who are grieving the departure of Steven and Mariah.
* Name changed for confidentiality and/or protection.
• Please pray for 6-month-old Brynn who received a new heart on Mother's Day, May 9, 2010. Pray that her little body won't reject the new heart and that she will have a good recovery from this surgery. Pray for Brynn's parents, family, and friends as they wait to see if the new heart will help her.

Website for Brynn
• Please pray for the heart donor's family-that God will bring comfort to them during this painfully difficult time.

Faces of Children
• Please continue to pray that more churches and individuals will join with the ministry of Faces of Children in spreading awareness about children in crisis and inviting more people to pray for children at risk.

In the News ... "Couple travels globe on 11-month mission trip"

By By Megan Lea Buck
Assistant Lifestyle Editor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Jared Christian described a jail in Mozambique, Africa as “the driest, hottest place I’ve ever been on earth.” Prisoners at the jail could only eat if their family brought them food, just as hospital patients in the country relied on relatives to feed them. Christian, along with his wife Amy, brought food and prayers to the prisoners and the sick during their stay in Mozambique.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Mid-Cities Haiti Mission: May 18

A mission team from Mid-Cities Community Church is delivering medical supplies and other expressions of Christ's love to Haiti, ravaged by an earthquake in January. They will stay a week. You can follow the team's progress, with daily updates on the church's "Missions" Twitter page at twitter.com/mccmissions

May 18

We have arrived safe & sound!! Sleeping on roof top tonight with this view Photo on twitpic.com

Heading back to church compound to set up here for clinic today Photo on twitpic.com

Word from Uganda: "Bududa ... mudslides"

Missionary teacher Natalie Rolfe writes, "'When He calls me, I will answer ... I'll be somewhere working for my Lord.' My call was Mbale, Uganda and that is where I have returned to serve for another year. Specifically, I am teaching phonics at Lulwanda Children's Home, an orphanage and school for 90 kids." Natalie also keeps an online journal of her service at the weblog, When He calls me, I will answer ...

Bududa ... mudslides

"You may have heard, last month, about the mudslide in Eastern Uganda. Praise God that they were not near Mbale or LCH, but they were located in the mountains in a village called Bududa,” Natalie writes. "There have been organizations and special projects from all over that have mobilized resources to give to the people who lost their homes and possessions. An Internally Displaced Camp has been set up in the small village of Buchekai.”

CLICK HERE to read the rest of Natalie's post

If you are interested in supporting LCH by sponsoring one of the 90 children, go to www.ugandaorphans.org If you are interested in financially supporting Natalie in her mission, you can send checks (with "Natalie Rolfe" in memo) to: Midland Bible Church, 2800 North A Street, Midland, TX 79705

In the News ... "Faith-focused"

Roy Waggoner
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - OC freshman Zach Chavez said he has always found group study an important part of growing in faith, especially now that he’s in college faced with the freedom that can lure some students away from church.

That’s why he found a multichurch Bible study called Renovation beneficial in his own faith.

"It’s a good opportunity to spend time with others, even people I have never met before. My expectations have been blown out of the water," he said.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

Mid-Cities Haiti Mission: May 17

A mission team from Mid-Cities Community Church is delivering medical supplies and other expressions of Christ's love to Haiti, ravaged by an earthquake in January. They will stay a week. You can follow the team's progress, with daily updates on the church's "Missions" Twitter page at twitter.com/mccmissions

May 17

We all made it to Miami! Haiti is our next stop!

Midland Group Reports Pastors Chinese Protest Destruction of Church

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Midland Group Reports Pastors Chinese Protest Destruction of Church

Released by ChinaAid, April, 2010 ...

"SHANXI, CHINA – On March 10, 2010, two severely persecuted pastors, Wang Xiaoguang and Yang Xuan, appealed for administrative reconsideration to Raodu People’s Government on behalf of Linfen Jindengtai Church, vowing to do all they can to protect the Jindengtai from being demolished. The Raodu Land Bureau had contacted Jindengtai members on March 4, informing them their church building was scheduled for demolition."
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

Invitation to Prayer

Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Our mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, we seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).

"Daily Renewal: Prayer and Meditation"

"Each morning, or any time you are about to go anywhere or do anything, go over the scenario in your mind. Pray, consciously, that the circumstance in question be used for the purposes of love, that God's rays of light might shine upon it."

"Part of our mind is bent on love, and part of it is bent on fear. That is how consciousness operates. The loving mind is called the spirit of God, the Holy Spirit... It is the holy Self that lies potential within all of us, the mystical drive to return home. We always have the choice to align ourselves with its presence and act accordingly in the world, or give in to fear and, on some level, die."

"The problem is that the voice of the spirit is not the dominant voice of the world. Fear is louder than love here. It takes conscious effort, therefore, to go against the voices of the world and to actualize our spiritual nature."

"The fearful mind, or the negative ego, is alive and well within us and around us, but darkness disappears in the presence of light. Fear has no ultimate power in a situation dedicated through prayer to God."

"The purpose of daily prayer is the cultivation of a sense of the sacred. Sacred energy renews us. Lives with no more sense of spiritual meaning than that provided by shopping malls, ordinary television, and stagnant workplaces are barren lives indeed. Spirituality enriches culture. Prayer enables us to transform the world, because it transforms us. From the moment we awaken each morning, our minds are at work in one direction or the other. Either we are slaves to the fearful mental habit patterns that dominate our world, or we are consciously taking part in the counterforce to the world's despair."
Illuminata, a Return to Prayer by Marianne Williamson

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,

This devotion is a little long, but Marianne Williamson's words in Illuminata struck a chord with me. There are times I want to give into fear (and other destructive emotions) when I read of another atrocity inflicted on a child by an adult, or when I begin to worry about the Mexican drug trafficking violence that seems to be moving north into parts of my state, closer to home. Fear is a self-preservation tool that serves me well when used as God intended. However, when it dominates my thoughts and emotions, I believe I'm grieving God and misusing this tool.

I guess that's why I found Williamson's image of darkness and fear being dispelled by God's rays of light so comforting. I'm reminded of those times when the power has gone out in our neighborhood and we've lit candles throughout the house. In the stillness and quiet of powerlessness-no electric motors or fans running anywhere-the warmth of this light brought comfort and reassurance to our family, especially to those of us so afraid of the dark. Light drove out fear.

Choosing to pray and take part in the "counterforce to the world's despair" isn't easy. We consciously choose to go against the dominant voices of the world by trusting in God's love and light, by consciously choosing to let love and light drive out fear and darkness. Thank you for making this choice by praying for children. I rejoice that there are children in our world whose lives are less fearful because of your prayers. Thanks be to our gracious and most generous God!

Please join us as we pray that God's light might drive out the darkness in the lives of hurting children everywhere. We'll meet on Wednesday, May 12, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride's room at First Presbyterian Church, Midland. We'll have lunch ($5) and fellowship after our time of prayer.

If you would like to share a prayer request or celebration about children, those who care for them, have authority over them, or even for those who harm them, please send them to me at at claufer@facesofchildren.net, or give me a call.

Blessings,
Chris

In the News ... "Angel Food Ministries gives hand up to anyone who wants to save on groceries"

By By Megan Lea Buck
Assistant Lifestyle Editor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

ODESSA-MIDLAND, TEXAS - Looking over the most recent menu for Angel Food Ministries, Janet Taylor commented on some of the newer additions, such as the the "Just 4 Me - After School" boxes that include fruit and vegetables or other kid-friendly snacks.

"It's all pre-cooked so the kids can come home from school and just pop it in the microwave or just eat it," she said.

The "convenience meals" - frozen dinners with entrees such as chicken parmesan and Swedish meatballs - are "handy for lunches," Taylor said.

As host site director for Angel Food Ministries at Christian Church of Midland, Taylor sees the faces of the people the ministry helps.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

HOT Topics at First Prez: June 6

Ten theologians ... ten challenges to faith ... twelve weeks this summer. You are invited to attend a special summer Sunday Schools series at First Presbyterian Church-Midland, addressing ten issues that are obstacles to faith for many both in and outside of the church.

Ten Christian and Jewish theologians, world experts in their respective fields as well as people of faith, were each asked to address a single perplexing issue, such as the existence of evil or the relationship between religion and science. The result is the "Serious Answers" course prepared by Wesley Ministry Network, which will encourage energetic discussion and sustained reflection by both believers and seekers.

The series - mixing video presentations with live discussion among attendees - will be offered Sundays, June 6 - August 22, 9:30-10:30 a.m. in Lynn Fellowship Hall at First Prez-Midland, on the northwest corner of A and Texas streets, on the west edge of downtown Midland.

All adults are welcome!

1. Evil - R. Kendall Soulen, Wesley Theological Seminary
2. Religion and Science - John Polkinghorne, Cambridge University
3. Other Religions - Sathianathan Clarke, Wesley Theological Seminary
4. Evangelism and Tolerance - Scott Jones, Bishop; formerly Perkins Schl. Theo.
5. The God of the Old Testament - Amy-Jill Levine, Vanderbilt Divinity School
6. Jesus and Christianity - Richard B. Hays, Duke Divinity School
7. Resurrection - N.T. Wright, Bishop; formerly Oxford University
8. The Gnostic Gospels - Ben Witherington, Asbury Theological Seminary
9. The Sins of the Church - Douglas M. Strong, Wesley Theological Seminary
10. Forgiveness - L. Gregory Jones, Duke Divinity School (Dean)

Midland Group Offers "Prayer Band That Started a Revolution"

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Issued by ChinaAid ...

This prayer band has been declared illegal in China.

Chinese police have stopped people on the streets and taken the bands off their wrists. Some have been interrogated and arrested; at least three families were evicted from their homes—for the government, the prayer band is a symbol of revolution.

We thank everyone across the U.S. and around the world who answered the call to wear a "Pray for China" prayer band and pray during the Olympics. Your willingness to stand with Chinese house church Christians encouraged them as they also wore prayer bands and prayed for their country. Their commitment came with a cost. Read more.

Yet, house church Christians refuse to be intimidated. They say that prayer for China is even more critical now that the world is no longer watching. Persecution has increased. Will you join in this revolution of prayer for China?

"They can arrest me or put me in prison, but I'm not going to stop praying for China. Although the prayer band is banned in China, prayer can never be banned. I am asking every Christian to support believers in China by wearing a prayer band." - a prominent house church leader

At this crucial time, will you partner in prayer? And, will you please forward this information to others who will want to pray for the persecuted in China.

» Click here to order a China Prayer Band

TONIGHT: Acclaimed Author, Speaker Coming to Odessa-Midland

Stephen Mansfield - historian, biographer, New York Times bestselling author, and a speaker described as "one of the nation’s most respected voices on religion and American culture" - will be in West Texas, Sunday, May 16, from 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Mid-Cities Community Church, 8700 W. Highway 191, between Odessa and Midland.

Admission to Mansfield's presentation, "Leadership + Faith," is FREE and open to all. Childcare is available with advance registration. Call Mid-Cities Community Church at (432) 522-1330 for more information.

From Stephen Mansfield's website

"Stephen Mansfield is a New York Times bestselling author, an acclaimed lecturer and inspirational speaker and a statesman."

"He has written bestselling and award-winning books on a wide variety of topics, such as the character of Winston Churchill, the faith of George W. Bush, the challenges of the American soldier, the wisdom of Booker T. Washington, the direction of the new Pope, the separation between church and state in America and the unique religious views of Barack Obama. His most recent book is a thrilling look at how faith in God led the famous Guinness family to make history through generosity. Stephen’s work has taken him from the Vatican to the battlefields of Afghanistan and Iraq and from the White House to the poorest neighborhoods of America."

"Mansfield is becoming one of America's most sought-after voices on religion and modern culture. He makes his home primarily in Nashville, Tennessee, with his beloved wife, Beverly, who is an award-winning songwriter and producer."

Mid-Cities Haiti Mission: May 15

A mission team from Mid-Cities Community Church is delivering medical supplies and other expressions of Christ's love to Haiti, ravaged by an earthquake in January. They will stay a week. You can follow the team's progress, with daily updates on the church's "Missions" Twitter page at twitter.com/mccmissions

May 15

God is still stirring the pot as well as our hearts. Now, we r driving to Dallas tomorrow to catch flight Monday am.

ServLife International Online Auction Kicks-off Today

ServLife International is a movement defined by values of God’s kingdom, not programs built around human efforts and activities. The reign and rule of God should be made apparent to every person on the planet, despite their religion, race or socioeconomic status. We believe that issues of justice are inseparable from the good news that Jesus Christ came to proclaim. ServLife exists to take the gospel of Christ and the hope of a better, more just, world to the lives of people we touch. This happens through individual contributions of time, creativity, resources and dreams.

ServLife International Online Auction Kicks-off Today

ServLife is excited to announce their first online auction, taking place May 15-30. The items that will be featured range from a week-long stay in Florida to a one hour photo session with a professional photographer. The auction items have been donated by a variety of artists and people. All proceeds will benefit the work of ServLife around the world.

All bids will be made online and once a bid is submitted it is binding and you are responsible for payment if the auction closes and your bid is the current winning bid. If you don’t have access to the Internet, you may call ServLife's office (317) 544-0484, and one of our staff members will complete a form for you over the phone.

Mid-Cities Haiti Mission: May 14

A mission team from Mid-Cities Community Church is delivering medical supplies and other expressions of Christ's love to Haiti, ravaged by an earthquake in January. They will stay a week. You can follow the team's progress, with daily updates on the church's "Missions" Twitter page at twitter.com/mccmissions

May 14

Bad weather = canceled flights = can't head to Haiti 'til Monday :( ...All in His timing...:)

Mission of Hope: Part 5

Tatum Hubbard
Anchor/Reporter
KOSA-TV

MISSION, TEXAS - The final day of the mission trip to south Texas is truly a day to celebrate. Volunteers with Rock the Desert want to do something special for all the children in the colonia. So they decided to throw a block party.
CLICK HERE to read/watch the rest of the KOSA story.

In the News ... "Church prays for Montimere"

Jim Mustian
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Guerdwich Montimere, the 22-year old Permian High basketball standout caught posing as 16-year-old Jerry Joseph, spent little time, if any, last season watching the action from the bench. Indeed, the star sophomore played an instrumental role in leading the Panthers to the UIL Class 5A playoffs.

But on Sunday mornings, Montimere’s unmistakable 6-foot-5 frame was a fixture on the third row of the sanctuary at the Mission Dorado Baptist Church in Odessa. From a red cushioned seat among the church’s youth, Montimere listened assiduously to the sermons delivered by pastor Philip J. Skelton.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

Mid-Cities Haiti Mission: May 13

A mission team from Mid-Cities Community Church is delivering medical supplies and other expressions of Christ's love to Haiti, ravaged by an earthquake in January. They will stay a week. You can follow the team's progress, with daily updates on the church's "Missions" Twitter page at twitter.com/mccmissions

May 13

18 bags packed with medical supplies, & lots of items that will bring smiles to childrens' faces! Excited to share the love of Jesus!

Acclaimed Author, Speaker Coming to Odessa-Midland

Stephen Mansfield - historian, biographer, New York Times bestselling author, and a speaker described as "one of the nation’s most respected voices on religion and American culture" - will be in West Texas, Sunday, May 16, from 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Mid-Cities Community Church, 8700 W. Highway 191, between Odessa and Midland.

Admission to Mansfield's presentation, "Leadership + Faith," is FREE and open to all. Childcare is available with advance registration. Call Mid-Cities Community Church at (432) 522-1330 for more information.

From Stephen Mansfield's website

"Stephen Mansfield is a New York Times bestselling author, an acclaimed lecturer and inspirational speaker and a statesman."

"He has written bestselling and award-winning books on a wide variety of topics, such as the character of Winston Churchill, the faith of George W. Bush, the challenges of the American soldier, the wisdom of Booker T. Washington, the direction of the new Pope, the separation between church and state in America and the unique religious views of Barack Obama. His most recent book is a thrilling look at how faith in God led the famous Guinness family to make history through generosity. Stephen’s work has taken him from the Vatican to the battlefields of Afghanistan and Iraq and from the White House to the poorest neighborhoods of America."

"Mansfield is becoming one of America's most sought-after voices on religion and modern culture. He makes his home primarily in Nashville, Tennessee, with his beloved wife, Beverly, who is an award-winning songwriter and producer."

Mission of Hope: Part 4

Tatum Hubbard
Anchor/Reporter
KOSA-TV

MISSION, TEXAS - Taking you along on a mission trip to South Texas with 30 other volunteers from the Permian Basin. One of the central reasons for making the trip was to distribute shoes that were donated during Rock the Desert last year.
CLICK HERE to read/watch the rest of the KOSA story.

In the News ... "Bynum students sending handmade dolls to Haiti"

Ruth Campbell
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - A mission team from Mid-Cities Church will be taking 86 ragdolls made by Bynum School students - and their relatives - to Haiti on Saturday. The school contacted the church about taking the dolls because they knew Mid-Cities was planning another trip. "Anything to bring smiles to those kids' faces would be wonderful," said Hollie Carrasco, who is making her first trip to Haiti with the team
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story.