Teichert Prayer Letter

Karl and Jenny Teichert are serving the Lord as missionaries with OC Africa, in South Africa. They moved to Johannesburg in November, 1997 with their four children; Ann, Scott, Stephen and John. Karl serves as the Southern Africa Director of the Southern Africa Regional Team. Their vision is to see a healthy, Bible-based church established in every un-reached village and community in South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia and beyond. Their strategy is to partner with key African church leaders to research, train, and mobilize the body of Christ to complete the Great Commission. They are striving to equip local leaders in Southern Africa to reach their nations for Christ and send missionaries into other countries as well. Karl’s ministry focuses on research, church planting, and leadership development training. In addition to caring for their four children, Jenny enjoys ministering through hospitality and equipping Sunday school teachers

July Prayer Letter ...

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
2 Chronicles 7:14

Dear Family and Friends,

In July 2000, God captured the heart of a South African Christian businessman, Graham Power, with a vision based on 2 Chronicles 7:14. The vision included a call to Christians from all denominations from Cape Town to unite together for a day of repentance and prayer. Over 45,000 Christians responded, which resulted in intercession, service, and witness for the city. The vision continued to spread each year across South Africa, the rest of Africa, and the world. On May 31, 2009, millions of Christians from every country of the world united in repentance and prayer during the Global Day of Prayer. This was a prayer for the fulfillment of Habakkuk 2:14: “For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.”

On May 23, 2010, Karl was able to participate in the 10-year celebration of the Global Day of Prayer with leaders from more than 150 nations in Cape Town, the birthplace of the vision. He was deeply touched as millions of believers from 220 countries around the world united in prayer and repentance and committed to work together as God’s servants for the blessing and healing of the nations.

The Global Day of Prayer conference included plenary sessions on prayer, marketplace, youth, church, and missions. Karl had the opportunity to interact with leaders from other African nations and many international organizations. Karl strategized with leaders from Dynamic Church Planting International, the Orality Network, Call2All, Perspectives on the World Christian Movement, and national initiatives to more effectively disciple the nations of Southern Africa for the glory of God. One particular project includes partnering with the Orality Network to present evangelism and church planting training to the unreached peoples in southern Madagascar.

Please pray that the Global Day of Prayer would ignite a passion for all believers to constantly seek the Lord. Pray that a movement of intercessory prayer would impact every segment of society. There are still over 600 unengaged, unreached people groups with populations of over 50,000 around the world ( www.finishingthetask.com ). Please pray for a greater partnership between ministries and church leaders to train and mobilize missionaries to plant disciple-making churches in these remaining unreached people groups. Lastly, please pray for wisdom and strength for Karl as he coordinates the Church Planting Alliance to accomplish this goal in Southern Africa.

Thank you for standing with us in your prayers and support. We are so grateful for your invaluable partnership!

For His Glory,
The Teicherts

OC Africa is an interdenominational ministry committed to developing, equipping, and mobilizing church leaders to multiply healthy, Bible-based churches in every community in Southern Africa and the world. OC is a faith-based mission who depends on the Lord to provide committed, financial supporters and partners. The contributions from these individuals help generate ministry opportunities around the world, impact missionaries and their global work, and provide a means for the International Mobilization Center to function. CLICK HERE to learn how YOU can be a part of mobilizing church leaders around the world by donating to OC.

In the News ... "Back to school giveaway"

Back to school giveaway
Staff Report
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Grace Point Church plans to give away 400 backpacks and other school supplies August 8 at Barbara Jordan Elementary, 9400 Rainbow Drive.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

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 07/28/10

Cambodia (Cambodian Hope Organization – www.cambodianhopeorganization.org)
• Give thanks to God for Cambodian Hope Organization’s (CHO) successful International Children’s Day parade on June 1 in Poipet. Six hundred children marched in the parade that was held to raise awareness about the rights of children in Cambodia. Pray for the children of Poipet…that they will be treated with justice and love.
• Please pray that God will provide the resources needed to continue the construction of a new house at Safe Haven for boys who are escaping trafficking.
• Pray for the staff and volunteers with CHO, for their stamina and strength. Thanks be to God for their dedication to the difficult work of serving disadvantaged rural people and at-risk and poor children.
• Give God thanks for the anti-trafficking training CHO provides for public school teachers.

Uganda (Watoto Child Care Ministries – www.watoto.com)
• Give God thanks and praise for the recent opening of Baby Watoto Gulu. Please continue to pray for the babies and children living at the Watoto village and for those who give them such tender, loving care.
• Pray that God will continue to provide the resources needed to care for more than 1500 children who have been orphaned, abandoned, or left in the care of Watoto Child Care Ministries by desperate parents.

Haiti
• Continue to pray for the children of Haiti and especially those who were orphaned in the January earthquake.
• Give thanks to God for the Haitian organization Frades, originally a grass-roots collective specializing in microloans, which assumed responsibility for 26 local children who were orphaned in the disaster.
• Pray that God will provide the resources and expertise to continue helping care for the 14 remaining children at the makeshift orphanage. Pray for sustained help for these children who’ve been severely traumatized by the deaths of parents or caregivers.
• Please keep 14-year-old Daphne held close in prayer and ask God to protect her from exploitation or abuse. Daphne was taken from the Frades orphanage by a distant relative and now lives in a squalid tent city near it.
• Pray for the newest arrivals at the orphanage, 11-month-old twins Magda and Magdaline. The girls, dehydrated and weak, were abandoned by their desperate mother who was certain that they would die in her care.
• Please pray for 13-year-old Michelle, the oldest child in the orphanage, who cooks for and feeds the younger children. Michelle has assumed the responsibility of caring for these children as the number of adult caregivers has shrunk due to lack of funds.
A report from the New York Times

United States
• Please continue to keep 2-year-old Steven* and 4-year-old Mariah* held close in prayer as they endure yet another wrenching transition. These foster children were reunited with their biological mother last May, but just recently, Child Protective Services removed them from her home and returned Steven and Mariah to their foster parents.
o Pray that God will comfort them as they make adjustments to being back in a home with more structure and discipline. Pray that God will heal whatever trauma Steven and Mariah may have experienced to warrant removal from their biological mother’s home. Pray for their mother who is expecting a baby.
o Please keep the foster family in prayer as they adjust to having these little ones back in their lives.
• Give thanks to God for the new Safe Harbor law in Connecticut, the third state in the U.S. to pass such a law. As a result, children under age 16 can’t be charged with the crime of prostitution and 16- to17-year-olds will be presumed to be victims of sex trafficking if they are found to be prostituting. Love146
o Pray that Connecticut police chiefs will respond positively to the new law and make a priority of training law enforcement in their regions to enforce Safe Harbor.
o Please pray for the staff managing the Department of Children and Families hotline…that they would be able to ask the right questions to identify a potential victim of trafficking.
o Pray for the staff at Love146 as they create educational materials to raise awareness about this new law.

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.

* Name changed for confidentiality and/or protection.

In the News ... "Expressions of God’s Love: Bringing light to town that lives in complete darkness most of the year"

Expressions of God’s Love: Bringing light to town that lives in complete darkness most of the year
By Audrey Palmer
Staff Writer
Midland Reporter-Telegram

KOTZEBUE, ALASKA - The sun shone brightly — as it would every hour of every day during our stay — when we landed at Ralph Wein Memorial Airport in Kotzebue, 33 miles north of the Arctic Circle along Alaska’s western coastline. We made our way off the plane, into the small building and felt the crisp sea air and spring-like temperatures hit our tired bodies. Our team of seven from Stonegate Fellowship had been traveling almost 24 hours on little to no sleep when we finally landed in Kotzebue. We were, to say the least, exhausted.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Midland Group Shares Statement of Chinese Christian Church Members' Call for Justice

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 Shares Statement of Chinese Christian Church Members' Call for Justice

Released by ChinaAid, June, 2010 ...

"HENAN, CHINA – In response to the persistent harassment of Yucheng County Church, members issued a statement on Tuesday, describing the personal toll on the family members of the detained, and calling for justice under the law."
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).

"Experiencing the First Love ..."

“Prayer means entering into communion with the One who loved us before we could love. It is this ‘first love’ (1 John 4:19) that is revealed to us in prayer. The more deeply we enter into the house of God, the house whose language is prayer, the less dependent we are on the blame or praise of those who surround us, and the freer we are to let our whole being be filled with that first love. As long as we are still wondering what other people say or think about us and trying to act in ways that will elicit a positive response, we are still victimized and imprisoned by the dark world in which we live. In that dark world we have to let our surroundings tell us what we are worth. As long as we are in the clutches of that world, we live in darkness, since we do not know our true self. We cling to our false self in the hope that maybe more success, more praise, more satisfaction will give us the experience of being loved, which we crave. That is the fertile ground of bitterness, greed, violence, and war."

"In prayer, however, again and again we discover that the love we are looking for has already been given to us and that we can come to the experience of that love. Prayer is entering into communion with the One who molded our being in our mother’s womb with love and only love. There in the first love, lies our true self, a self not made up of the rejections and acceptances of those with whom we live, but solidly rooted in the One who called us into existence. In the house of God we were created. To that house we are called to return. Prayer is the act of returning."
The Only Necessary Thing: Living a Prayerful Life by Henri J.M. Nouwen

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,

Please join us for a time of prayer for the children of our world this
coming Wednesday, July 28, 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 have prayer concerns or celebrations about children at risk, those who care for them, have authority over them, or, yes, even those who harm them, please send them to me at at claufer@facesofchildren.net, or give me a call. Thank you for praying for the children of our global and local communities!

Struggling to break free of the dark world… seeking the first love,
Chris

In the News ... "What break?"

What break?
Roy Waggoner
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Ahhh … summer.

Vacations, camps, the chance to get away. But for local churches, it also means a drop of attendance and sometimes a changed schedule.

The Rev. Matt Wilson at Antioch Christian Church said summer takes a toll as people leave town, but while other churches may change the schedule, he left the regular schedule of events intact since he just started his pastorate at the relatively small congregation earlier this year.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.
CLICK HERE for a slideshow accompanying the OA story

Teichert Prayer Letter

Karl and Jenny Teichert are serving the Lord as missionaries with OC Africa, in South Africa. They moved to Johannesburg in November, 1997 with their four children; Ann, Scott, Stephen and John. Karl serves as the Southern Africa Director of the Southern Africa Regional Team. Their vision is to see a healthy, Bible-based church established in every un-reached village and community in South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia and beyond. Their strategy is to partner with key African church leaders to research, train, and mobilize the body of Christ to complete the Great Commission. They are striving to equip local leaders in Southern Africa to reach their nations for Christ and send missionaries into other countries as well. Karl’s ministry focuses on research, church planting, and leadership development training. In addition to caring for their four children, Jenny enjoys ministering through hospitality and equipping Sunday school teachers

June Prayer Letter ...

Dear Family and Friends,

Trust you are well and growing in God’s grace and truth. This month we want to highlight some of the recent activities that Scott, Stephen, and John have been involved in.

For the past few weeks, Scott has been working with his friend James on their science project. They decided to test the flight distance and performance of a special type of airplane made of different materials. Here is a picture of the cylinder-shaped airplane. Scott is also enjoying playing on the tennis and soccer teams at school. He plays defender on the soccer team and hopes to move up from the B to A tennis team soon.

Stephen and his friend Kevin have also been working on their science project. They have built a Tesla coil which generates 750 volts and produces dramatic light rays from the aluminum ball on the top. The purpose of the project was to make a fluorescent light glow at different distances.

Stephen plays goalie on the school soccer team and went to the national finals with the school swim team. He also likes playing keyboard with his friends in their Christian band, the Unsung Heroes.

John plays mid-fielder on the school soccer team. He and Scott also serve as leaders in our school youth group. All three boys will be helping with the annual holiday club in July which reaches out to over 200 kids from the neighborhood.

We are so grateful that our boys have an opportunity to grow up in such a diverse place like South Africa. Thank you for your prayers and support for them and our whole family as we serve the Lord in this part of the world!

For His Glory,
The Teicherts

OC Africa is an interdenominational ministry committed to developing, equipping, and mobilizing church leaders to multiply healthy, Bible-based churches in every community in Southern Africa and the world. OC is a faith-based mission who depends on the Lord to provide committed, financial supporters and partners. The contributions from these individuals help generate ministry opportunities around the world, impact missionaries and their global work, and provide a means for the International Mobilization Center to function. CLICK HERE to learn how YOU can be a part of mobilizing church leaders around the world by donating to OC.

In the News ... "Meals on Wheels Needs Drivers"

Meals on Wheels Needs Drivers
Alex Glenn Prather
Reporter
KOSA-TV

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Meals on Wheels in Midland needs drivers to help deliver hot meals to senior citizens who have a hard time leaving their homes.

Community and Senior Services says they are facing a severe shortage of drivers because many of their summer drivers are preparing to go back to school.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the KOSA story.

In the News ... "West Texas Food Bank says needs increase during summer months"

West Texas Food Bank says needs increase during summer months
By Kathleen Thurber
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND-ODESSA, TEXAS - The middle of summer usually signals one thing for the West Texas Food Bank: The need for more resources.

The prime time for donations is in the fall, but increased requests for help from families can arrive in the summer. Lee Pipkin, the food bank's interim executive director, said getting through becomes a matter of stretching what they have until the first day of school hits in mid-August.

Whether it's families struggling to feed kids who typically receive free lunch at school, parents who still are seeking jobs or those who continue to struggle to make ends meet, this summer more people than usual have been asking for assistance, said Michael Landrum, who serves as co-chairman of Memorial Christian Church's food pantry. The church is one of more than 15 Midland distribution sites for the food bank, though several, such as Dismas Charities, require food received for residents at their facility rather than for the general public.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

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 07/21/10

India (Dalit Freedom Network – www.dalitnetwork.org)
• Give thanks to God for the work of the Dalit Freedom Network (DFN) in helping victims of trafficking and raising awareness about this issue. Please continue to pray for the safety of the staff who work with these young victims. Pray for those who have been trafficked and exploited…for healing and hope for a brighter future.
• Pray that God will provide the resources needed to purchase land and build more schools as there are so many families wanting their children to be educated through the Dalit Education Centers.
• Thanks be to God for these schools and their staff. Pray that God will protect and provide for the directors who run them.

Thailand Garden of Hope – www.thegardenofhope.org)
• Continue to keep the staff and 30 children at Garden of Hope Children’s Drop-in Center lifted in prayer as they go through a period of transition. Give God thanks that this ministry, in the heart of a red-light (brothel) district, is doing so well in keeping children safe and in teaching them how to stay safe.
• Thanks be to God that Gee Gee *, a 10-year-old girl whose mother gave her to a 65-year-old American man, was rescued because she remembered the preventative training she received at the drop-in center and was able to call the Thai hotline number. Gee Gee was removed from her home and is now in a safe location.
• Pray that the children who come to the center will be protected from sexual exploitation, child labor, poverty, and discrimination. Pray for the emotional, physical, and spiritual healing of those who’ve already suffered this abuse.

United States
• Please keep the children and people of the Gulf Coast communities held close in prayer as they deal with the effects of the massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

° Pray for those families who are adversely impacted by the spill.

° Pray for those who have lost businesses and livelihoods: oil workers, fishing folks, restaurant and tourism staff, rig suppliers, and many more.

° Pray for those who are afraid and angry about the situation and take it out on their children.

° Pray for those involved in the cleanup and in stopping the oil flow.

° Pray for the healing and restoration of damaged lives and damaged ecosystems.

° Please pray that the hurting children and people of this area will not be forgotten or abandoned.
• Give thanks to God for the C2BU (Courage to be You - www.c2bu.org) benefit concert recently held at Valley Springs Presbyterian Church in Roseville, California. Funds from this concert will benefit Courage House, a safe home for children rescued out of commercial sexual exploitation (CSE) in northern California.
° Please pray that this event will raise awareness about trafficking and CSE and that it will inspire many people to become involved in helping stop this horrible form of child abuse.
° Pray that God will provide the resources needed to open and staff Courage House.
Please pray for the children who will come to this safe place … for their healing and restoration.
• Please continue to keep the boys and staff at the Ron Burton Training Village (www.ronburtontrainingvillage.com) in prayer as the summer camp program comes to an end.
° Give God thanks that it has been such a successful and fruitful session for the 100 boys.
° Pray that these boys will be able to take what they have learned and experienced back into their daily lives at home, in their neighborhoods, and at school. Pray for their continued growth into respectful and respected young men of God.
° Please keep in prayer two boys, Steve * and Dave *, who had to leave the camp because of behavioral problems. Pray that they will benefit from the time they did spend at the camp, will find the help they need, and will learn to make better choices.

Faces of Children
• Give thanks to God for the opportunity to share the ministry of Faces of Children with the congregation of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Lubbock, Texas last week. And thanks be to God for the many new prayer partners from Covenant who committed to pray for children through 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.

* Name changed for confidentiality and/or protection.

In the News ... "Bringing the 'Mission' home"

Bringing the 'Mission' home
Roy Waggoner
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Still jet-lagged and absorbing the whole experience, a group of 21 youth and adult leaders from CrossRoads Fellowship already agree on one thing: The trip was life changing.

The team returned Monday after leaving for Kenya July 2.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.
CLICK HERE for a slideshow accompanying the OA story

In the News ... "Overflow Outreach treats Midlanders to breakfast, fellowship, entertainment"

Overflow Outreach treats Midlanders to breakfast, fellowship, entertainment
By Megan Lea Buck
Assistant Lifestyle Editor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Last weekend about 125 Midlanders were treated to a free breakfast with live entertainment during Overflow Outreach's second monthly "Hands of Love" event. A ministry of Christian Fellowship International Church, Overflow Outreach hosted the gathering at the church's outreach building in the former K-Mart shopping center at the corner of Midland Drive and Illinois Avenue.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story
CLICK HERE for a slideshow accompanying the MRT story

Midland Group Reports Chinese Officers Threaten Christian Elders

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 Officers Threaten Christian Elders

Released by ChinaAid, June, 2010 ...

"HENAN, CHINA – On the afternoon of June 25, several elderly Christians in Yucheng County, Shangqiu, were threatened in their homes by PSB officials, only days before the court date of one of four house church member who were arrested in March.

The local police officers intimidated the elderly Christians by saying they had joined a cult. They tricked the elderly people into leaving their fingerprints on the statement of guarantee that the police officers had prepared beforehand, in which these Christians are said to have claimed they would 'give up the house church.'"
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

In the News ... "A calling to come to Bethany"

A calling to come to Bethany
Roy Waggoner
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Sometimes God leads his followers to greener pastures. In Keith Gibbons’ case, he was led back to flatter, browner pastures.

But that’s all right with him.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

In the News ... "Local Churches Reach Out to Homeless Families"

Local Churches Reach Out to Homeless Families
Jennifer Samp
Reporter
KOSA-TV

ODESSA, TEXAS - It’s a promise sixteen Ector County churches make to homeless families going through a crisis.

A promise overflowing with every faucet of aid available from shelter and food to finding work and a day care.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the KOSA story.

In the News ... "Westside Baptist's new pastor to focus on 'good, old-fashioned visitation'"

Westside Baptist's new pastor to focus on 'good, old-fashioned visitation'
By Megan Lea Buck
Assistant Lifestyle Editor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Craig Thames describes himself as "down to earth."

"What you see is what you get," said the new pastor of Westside Baptist Church. "I just simply try to show people there's a God out there and there's a better way of life. I try to live it myself first and foremost so they can see that evidence."

Thames was officially installed April 18 at the conservative independent Baptist church, though he began serving as an interim pastor in January. The church's previous leader left in August 2009.

Church trustee Jimmy Alvarez said soon after Thames began attending Westside Baptist, he volunteered to help the church in any way he could.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

In the News ... "Big Spring Salvation Army Hosting School Supply Drive"

Staff Report
Reporter
KWES-TV

BIG SPRING, TEXAS - Homework could be a little harder for some Big Spring students without your help. That's because their parents can't afford school supplies.

The Salvation Army is asking everyone to pitch in for their school supply drive.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the KOSA story.

In the News ... "Planting a seed"

Planting a seed
Roy Waggoner
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - He came to interview just to be nice, but the Rev. Steven Kelley ended up taking the job as founding pastor of Christ Church Odessa, the first Anglican congregation in Odessa according to Kelley.

“We’ve grown quite quickly since we started last fall,” he said.

Sponsored by Christ Church Midland, the new church was started by Kelley after he moved from Tennessee where he served at a church plant there.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

Midland Group Reports Chinese Officials Demolish Christian Church Building

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 Demolish Christian Church Building

Released by ChinaAid, June, 2010 ...

"HEILONGJIANG, CHINA – On June 12, 2010, a building belonging to Yichun’s registered Three-Self Patriotic Movement church was demolished and removed by force, despite the objection of members.

Yichun authorities wanted to requisition the land of the church, but they did not wait to reach any agreement with the church before taking action and proceeding with the demolition. The director of Yichun District personally took over the command of the operation, bringing a formidable force of police officers, armed policemen, and riot policemen. Community workers and some unidentified people also were involved in the demolition and removal"
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

In the News ... "Catholic church ordains five Midlanders as deacons"

Catholic church ordains five Midlanders as deacons
By Megan Lea Buck
Assistant Lifestyle Editor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Jesus Napoles had not considered pursuing ordination as a deacon until the late Rev. Ray Wilhelm of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church approached him with the idea in 2005.

"He said he had gotten a letter from the diocese looking for a few men to go into the diaconate," Napoles recalled. "He asked me to pray about it."
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story
CLICK HERE for a slideshow accompanying the MRT story

In the News ... "FUMC-Midland to host 'Dinner on the Grounds' for busy parishioners"

FUMC-Midland to host 'Dinner on the Grounds' for busy parishioners
By Megan Lea Buck
Assistant Lifestyle Editor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - First United Methodist Church is putting a new spin on an old tradition this Sunday with the church's first meal in its "Dinner on the Grounds" series.

"'Dinner on the Grounds' is an old church phrase that describes a time when people brought their own food for church Sunday, and after worship they would 'spread' their covered dishes from home for all to enjoy," senior pastor the Rev. Tim Walker said via e-mail. "This is little modernization that we look forward to."

Sunday, following the 10:45 worship services, members and guests will dine at the church's activities center.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

FPC Uganda Mission: Update #10

After months of preparation, a team of our brothers and sisters in Christ - men, women and children from West Texas - are at work in the east Africa nation of Uganda for Christian mission. The 2010 Uganda Mission Team from First Presbyterian Church of Midland will be sending back regular reports from Uganda, along with photos.

---

Update #10

We were able to enjoy a day of rest and sightseeing. Such a beautiful country. We visited Dr. Patrick's place at Sisi Falls. It is called the Garden of Eden and it is a fitting description of the place. There was more water flowing over the falls this year and the heavy mist coming off the falls soaked many of us. It felt wonderful - cool and refreshing.We took photos and hiked at our leisure, enjoying a picnic lunch on the grounds.




We arrived back at our hotel and began packing for the journey home. Mt. Elgon Hotel has been such a delightful place to stay over the years. Many of the staff members have become great friends and they treat us so kindly. Tonight at dinner they surprised us with a "Good Bye" cake and thanked us for coming to Uganda and spreading the word of God. Such gracious people - we will miss them.


On that note, we have a wonderful story to tell about one of the staff members and their encounter with our team:

Jesus said in Matthew 18:11 (NESB) "For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost". The Lord opened wide the door for several mission team members to share the Gospel with a young Muslim man by the name Josef. The Lord used His servant Ramon as a point of contact. It was Ramon who first spoke to Josef in a dialogue about a problem with the air conditioning unit in her room. Josef is the repairman for the Mt. Elgon hotel. Later Ramon invited Karen Williams, Hannah Schorr and Garrett Lang to come and help present the Gospel to Josef. Josef prayed to trust Christ as his Savior and Lord. Josef stated that he was just waiting for someone to tell him about Jesus and there was no one to tell him ... until now. Praise the Lord!

We will miss our new friends and country but we are ready to come home and see our families and, as always, a few of us are really craving Mexican Food. We will drive to Entebbe tomorrow, eat at Sam's and do a little shopping, then board the plane for Midland. YEA! It has been a wonderful trip and your prayers and support have blessed us. Thank you all. Next year . . . maybe God will call YOU to join in this wonderful mission to Uganda.

Ya lama noi! (thank you very much)

2010 Uganda Mission Team

In the News ... "After 80 years, Macedonia Baptist looks to future of spiritual growth"

After 80 years, Macedonia Baptist looks to future of spiritual growth
By Megan Lea Buck
Assistant Lifestyle Editor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - This weekend, members and friends of Macedonia Baptist Church will mark the church's 80th anniversary with a two-day event called "Celebrating with Diamonds and Pearls."
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

FPC Uganda Mission: Update #9

After months of preparation, a team of our brothers and sisters in Christ - men, women and children from West Texas - are at work in the east Africa nation of Uganda for Christian mission. The 2010 Uganda Mission Team from First Presbyterian Church of Midland will be sending back regular reports from Uganda, along with photos.

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Update #9
Our devotional by Garrett Lang this morning was based on prayer and it was a fitting chapter to study on the day we would have the first worship service at the new church in Kanyumu.
It was truly unbelievable--the sight of all the people as we approached the church. As we arrived, the church was already filled with the new congregation. We joined them in their opening ceremonies of prayer and song before breaking up into men's, women's, and children's Sunday school.
There were at least 90 - 100 men in the class that Steve led under a tent by the church. He taught on prayer using I Thessalonians 5:16-18 "Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." He taught on the importance of prayer in the new believer and challenged the men to find their gift that will help build the community of faith and help assist Pastor Stephen in ministering to the needs of the congregation as it grows.
Karen Williams led over 100 women in the women's class. She taught the women how to be faithful to the church - emphasizing that we are "called ones" gathering for fellowship, service, instruction and worship.
Children's Sunday school was led by Melissa Rendall where she told Bible stories and taught them the hand prayer. They were delightful as they sang, danced and praised the Lord.

After Sunday school, the people gathered back in the church to a packed house, overflowing to the aisles where they had placed mats on the floor for the children to sit. It was so full that by the time we made our way back to the church, there was standing room only at the back - and then that filled up, too. So we enjoyed the wonderful service from outside until the Muzungu Choir (that's us) was called to the stage. We sang a rousing rendition of a Ugandan song that we had been practicing all week followed by "I've Got the Joy Down in My Heart" accompanied by Karen Lang on the guitar. We actually sounded pretty good as the congregation joined in with clapping and singing.
Walter preached on Philippians 1:9-11 which encouraged the congregation to grow into a tree which would produce fruit. We enjoyed the beautiful sound of Ugandan prayers, lifting up the Lord with passion and joy. Pastor Morris gave a passionate and powerful sermon on the importance of being a community of faith. He charged Pastor Stephen with having Bible-centered authority over the church and the importance of leading a faithful congregation. His wife Beatrice was sitting faithfully beside him as he was commissioned. When it was all said and done, we worshiped and sang with our new friends for about 4 hours. IT WAS GREAT!

We enjoyed one more delicious meal by our cooks - Christopher and James and made our way back to Mbale. It was bitter sweet leaving our new brothers and sisters in Christ but it was so rewarding to leave such a vibrant and happy congregation.

We arrived back at Mt. Elgon and began preparing for the Pastor's Dinner. This is one of our favorites events of the week because it is the time we share Holy Communion with our Ugandan family. It is like getting a 'peek' of heaven - all of us gathered around the table sharing the Lord's Supper and praising God. We then share a meal, share some laughter and share a few tears during the evening. What a blessing they have been to us this week - walking hand in hand with us translating and spreading the gospel to the countryside. We could not do this without them. Please keep them in your prayers.

It has been a wonderful week. We have had the opportunity to live out our mission statement, "Loving and leading all people to deeper life in Jesus Christ" on the red dirt roads of Uganda and look forward to continuing to live it out at home.

In the News ... "Children’s Museum curator retires to focus on missions"

Children’s Museum curator retires to focus on missions
By Megan Lea Buck
Assistant Lifestyle Editor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - With an exhibit that will remain in place until January and an interim to lead tours, Karen Winkler celebrated her last day as curator of the Museum of the Southwest’s Fredda Turner Durham Children’s Museum with a public reception to honor her retirement last month.

Retirement for Winkler, however, does not mean an end to her active lifestyle or her passion for helping others.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

FPC Uganda Mission: Update #8

After months of preparation, a team of our brothers and sisters in Christ - men, women and children from West Texas - are at work in the east Africa nation of Uganda for Christian mission. The 2010 Uganda Mission Team from First Presbyterian Church of Midland will be sending back regular reports from Uganda, along with photos.

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Update #8
Today we were able to sleep in and didn't have our devotional time until 10:00. Jeff Darr gave the devotional on the second half of the chapter on Joy. We loaded up in the vans and headed off to the Lulwanda Children's Home, which is the orphanage that First Presbyterian has been supporting for several years. We visit here each time we are in Uganda. It was great fun for us, as well as the children. We have watched some of these children grow the past 6 years and it is so heartwarming to see the loving and nurturing environment where they live. Each year we are astounded by how well adjusted and happy these children are. Except for the fact that they are orphans, they are so much better off than the children we see in the villages. They have warm, safe beds to sleep in, healthy meals, and loving Christian role models to take care of them.

We also had the opportunity to meet the children involved in the "I Choose You" Ministry program at the Mbale Presbyterian Church. The "I Choose You" ministry works with the children of the Karamojong. The Karamojong are an ethnic group that have escaped Sudan and Ethiopia and now live in the slums on the outskirts of Mbale. The "I Choose You" Ministry is designed to provide for the Karamojong children with relief from overwhelming social, economic and spiritual poverty. It was founded by Cypress Creek Church in Wimberley, Texas and is administered by Morris and Aidah's church. We had the opportunity to help distribute the monthly allocations of flour, sugar, and soap to the children and their mothers and we were able to hand out packets that contained toys and essential items to each child.

When we got back to the hotel another group from Tomball Bible Church outside of Houston was arriving. The Tomball church is a generous supporter of the home and informed us of 2 new buildings that they had raised the money to build. We enjoyed a meal together with their team tonight, hearing about their plans for the week and prayed together for the endeavors of each team.

Several times during the sharing time each evening, and also in the devotional times in the morning, people on the team have mentioned how encouraging it is to know that we are being supported with prayer by the home team. We cannot express how grateful we are for this opportunity, and for your continued love and support. Thank you!

In the News ... "Community Remembers Local Pastor"

Community Remembers Local Pastor
Shelley Childers
Reporter
KOSA-TV

MIDLAND, TEXAS - A local community is mourning the loss of a pastor who was an inspiration to many.

Michael Graham passed away suddenly on Monday afternoon, after losing control of his motorcycle on Highway 17, just ten miles north of Ft. Davis.

When talking about Pastor Graham colleagues describe a very generous man who would help anyone who asked him, and none of them were prepared for the tragic accident that claimed his life earlier this week.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the KOSA story.

FPC Uganda Mission: Update #7

After months odf preparation, a team of our brothers and sisters in Christ - men, women and children from West Texas - are at work in the east Africa nation of Uganda for Christian mission. The 2010 Uganda Mission Team from First Presbyterian Church of Midland will be sending back regular reports from Uganda, along with photos.

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Update #7
Joy was the topic of our devotional this beautiful Ugandan morning led by Robert Winkler. Henri Nouwen says that " . . . great sorrow and great joy are often seen to be parts of the same experience. Often we discover the joy in the midst of the sorrow."

That was amazingly applicable as today was a day of extreme highs and extreme lows for the team. The suffering and pain of the people that come to the medical clinic is heartbreaking, but the joy we feel for all the people who have come to know the love of Christ is overwhelming. We want to share with you all the stories of the day but this day has been very long and emotionally draining. Highlights of this, our last day on the trail, will be sent out tomorrow, after we have had a good night's rest. We have included some pictures of the day to help you share in our experience.

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Yesterday's experience with the medical clinic at the church left us exhausted and emotionally raw. We saw the whole spectrum of the human experience: the sick and those getting healing, the desperate and the hopeful, the served and the servants, frustration and relief, sorrow and joy, chaos and organization. The hardest thing was turning away many who needed help. But God's mercy is new every morning! A great blessing was unity. It seemed at every crisis, emergency, problem to solve, or crowd to control there was a Ugandan and an American working side by side. We have always believed that when we do this together, it would be easier for people to see that it is Jesus who heals, Jesus who comforts, Jesus who saves...and not us. Another blessing was the simple reminder that Jesus had days like that. Luke tells about how the crowds "pressed in on Him" seeking healing. Even He didn't heal everyone! On several occasions Jesus left when the people came looking for him. (We note that the Bible doesn't tell us about those who did not receive help) Our devotional this morning was about "Joy". "Joy", it said, "is based on spiritual knowledge that while the world in which we live is shrouded in darkness, God has overcome the world." We rest in this hope!

Ralph, Garrett & Tamara went to the prisons to minister to the prisoners. It was an exciting experience with a very energetic atmosphere! The sermons and testimonies were very inspirational and well received from the prisoners and their families. In the end, two men accepted Christ into their lives!! It was amazing to see God working in a place where people feel they have been forgotten and have lost all hope.

Connie, Melissa, and Robert Rendall visited the schools. Kawo-Kidale Primary school, consisting of grades P1-P7, was the first stop. Connie and Melissa gave their testimonies, and then Robert preached the story of Jesus to them. When Robert asked if everyone would like to trust in Jesus, almost every hand was raised. As they prayed the confession prayer, even the smallest children had their hands over their eyes in reverent prayer. They then visited Nyero Rock High School, a school of 1800 students, but only one-third of them were present for various reasons. As the teenagers filed in, the three-team members felt very intimated, but once the praise and worship began, every kid in the room jumped up and whole-heartedly participated putting the team's fears to rest. The schools choirs led the lively praise and the team said that there is nothing like witnessing 600 high school students, teachers, and administrators dancing and praising the Lord at the top of their lungs in a government run school. Freedom of religion is alive and well in Uganda!

At the request of the Presbytery of Eastern Uganda, the mission team has been assisting with classes on discipleship. Separate classes are being held for young women and for young men under the leadership of Elder Peterson. Mission team members Karen Williams, Steve Schorr, Walter Thompson, and Jim Alsup have been assisting with the classes, using materials furnished by Karen Williams. Lively discussions concerning such things as men having more than one wife, church discipline and other issues unique to Ugandan culture have experienced. This is a needed part of the team's ministry that hopefully would be expanded and pursued.

Allison, Thomas and Karen Williams shared their testimonies to a large crowd and Walter Thompson gave the sermon. After such a long, hard day, it was inspirational to listen these wonderful, personal encounters with God.

In the News ... "Sports for a cause"

Sports for a cause
Roy Waggoner
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Eleven days, 300 soccer balls and 21 mission workers.

Fourteen youth from CrossRoads Fellowship are ready for a mission trip to Kenya that will include a twist: spreading God’s love through soccer, both on the 300 balls and through teaching sports to the local youth. Today is the first day the group will serve in Kenya, with the trip ending July 12.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

FPC Uganda Mission: Update #6

After months odf preparation, a team of our brothers and sisters in Christ - men, women and children from West Texas - are at work in the east Africa nation of Uganda for Christian mission. The 2010 Uganda Mission Team from First Presbyterian Church of Midland will be sending back regular reports from Uganda, along with photos.

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Update #6
It is hard to believe the team left Midland one week ago. So many wonderful moments have been experienced over the last week and they have been blessed over and over again by the people they have encountered along the way. Karen Winkler led the devotional time this morning. We studied the second half of chapter 8 entitled "Compassion" and it was a fitting topic for the day. With the beginning of the medical clinic today, the team would be surrounded by people of Kanyumu, some of whom would need special care. A quote from Henri Nouwen's book, "Here and Now" helped up face the day. "Compassion means to become close to the one who suffers. But we can come close to another person only when we are wiling to become vulnerable ... We can be with the other only when the other ceases to be "other" and becomes like us."

The medical mission started out this morning seemingly in mass confusion but we quickly realized that the Ugandans had a method to their madness. We had hundreds going through the makeshift clinic to receive medical attention. The inside of the church was transformed into 4 doctor stations, one wound care station, an inoculation station (for AIDS testing and malaria testing), the pharmacy and a mosquito net station. So add in a few hundred people and it gets awfully warm in those close quarters. The doctors and nurses that we worked with were wonderful and very compassionate. We think we have a few ways to streamline the congestion tomorrow. The day was full of blessings but one of the more gratifying things was to get to give away over 800 mosquito nets. Our church raised the funds for 3000 nets to be distributed while we are here!! Thank you all so much-it's one of the things that make so much difference over here. They really do save lives.

Throughout the week, the team has encountered elderly or sick people who would have difficulty traveling to the church. We were grateful to learn that Dr. Patrick Mutano had an extra wheelchair left from a large wheelchair distribution through Free Wheelchair Missions. We drove to the church in Kanyumu with the wheelchair strapped to the top of one of the vans, wondering who would need it most. At one point Cynthia and Kathy were called from the Medical Clinic to meet a woman with abnormalities in her legs - she could not move from the ground without being lifted. There was no doubt that God intended the wheelchair for her! Overwhelmed and grateful, her three sons lifted her into the wheelchair that would allow her to be mobile and independent for the first time. Praise God for his perfect plans!

While at the crusade this afternoon, a young girl approached Hannah and said her name was Miriam. She was 17 years old. But the first thing Miriam said to Hannah was, "Will you be my friend?" Hannah replied with, "of course I will be your friend!" From that moment on, Miriam never left Hannah's side. The two began to talk and Hannah soon discovered that Miriam was the daughter of a polygamist. Her mother was the first wife of her father, but her father had left her and her family for another wife. Miriam told Hannah about how difficult it was to grow up without a father and knowing the reason he had left their family. Yet she also explained that the reason she had accepted Christ is because through him she knew she could have a heavenly Father, even if she couldn't have an earthly father. Miriam's faith in Christ was inspiring. Hannah was blessed abundantly by their new friendship.

Karen and Garrett Lang and Walter visited three schools today. Two of the schools were primary schools and the third was a secondary school. The children were very attentive and many trusted Christ for the first time. The rain came right as the service started at the secondary school, so the event was moved inside. Despite cramming almost 500 people into a room at the school, the students were very excited to have music and preaching at their school. Everyone was very appreciative of the team's visit.

Today Allison Ellis, Jim Alsup and Robert Rendall traveled to the prisons. As Robert put it, Allison will most likely win the award for "The Most Interesting Summer Vacation." After a morning spent reading and writing in her journal, Jim, Robert and Allison loaded up the van and headed South of Mbale. When they arrived at the prisons, Allison realized that she had drunk one too many cups of coffee that morning, and the only facilities available were those at the prison. That, she said, was an experience in itself. Speaking to the prisoners was surprisingly unintimidating. There were 10 to 15 men sitting in front of them and they were all very attentive, responsive, and respectful. They appeared to be thankful for their presence, and gracious for the encouraging Word of God that they brought before them. Jim and Robert both came prepared with amazing words of faith, and it was rewarding and affirming to see the Lord work through them. Allison felt so blessed to have been able to live out this opportunity. It was both refreshing and empowering to be able to speak to the men that we spoke to today. This experience was one more instance that confirms my faith in Christ and His power to forgive all of mankind.

At the crusade, Ben Spinks, Jeff and Elizabeth Darr shared their testimonies and Steve Schorr preached a powerful sermon to our largest crowd yet. Many people came forward to accept Christ, including one young man who had caused problems on the trail for Karen Williams the day before. It was encouraging to see how God pursued this young man long after the seed was planted by Karen. God's timing is always perfect. It was a very good day. Praise the Lord!

Please keep the team in your prayers as we finish our week on the trail, going to schools and prisons. Pray that we are able to help as many people as possible at the medical clinic and let the clinic be a blessing to the people of the area. We have a few people on the team who are not feeling quite "up to par". Please pray for health and renewal.

Blessings to everyone,

The Ugandan Team

In the News ... "Wives play part in husbands becoming deacons"

Wives play part in husbands becoming deacons
By Megan Lea Buck
Assistant Lifestyle Editor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Earlier this month 29 men from the Diocese of San Angelo were ordained as deacons. While clergy members presided over the service, the candidates' wives were able to play a part in vesting the men, just as they played a part in the men's preparation for ordination.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Midland Group Reports on Visit to Chinese Pastor Released from Prison

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 on Visit to Chinese Pastor Released from Prison

Released by ChinaAid, June, 2010 ...

"GUANGDONG, CHINA – Recently, Pastor Zhang "Bike" Mingxuan and his wife made a special trip to Guangzhou to visit the family of Pastor Wang Dao, a fellow Christian who was just released from imprisonment. Detained on May 9 on arbitrary charges, Wang Dao was released on bail on June 13 to await his trial."
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

FPC Uganda Mission: Update #5

After months odf preparation, a team of our brothers and sisters in Christ - men, women and children from West Texas - are at work in the east Africa nation of Uganda for Christian mission. The 2010 Uganda Mission Team from First Presbyterian Church of Midland will be sending back regular reports from Uganda, along with photos.

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Update #5
We had rains again last night but woke up to another beautiful day this morning. Robin started us out with a wonderful devotional from the chapter in our book on compassion. A perfect lesson for us as we walk the trails of Uganda. We are halfway through our week on the trail and Wednesday is always the day we seem to start having a few people feeling a little puny. Keep us all in your prayers for renewed strength to continue the work ahead. Today Robert Winkler, Ramon, and Jeff were on prison ministry while Ben, Thomas, Hannah, Allison and Tamara went to the schools. Cynthia, Karen Winkler, Pat, Vicki, Kathy, and Connie were at the Women's Health Conference and everyone else was on the trail today. At the crusade, Jim gave a wonderful sermon and Melissa, Garrett and Carole gave powerful testimonies.

The trail team today went a bit outside the village center to evangelize in a rural area. Walter Thompson and his translator, Charles, encountered Steven, who was tending his cattle and was very receptive to the gospel. After the man trusted Christ as his savior, the translator felt God leading him to talk with Steven about his marriage. Sure enough, Steven was having difficulty with his marriage and they were able to encourage him. Steven said he seldom goes into the village, so they set him up for a visit from the pastor.

Today the school team had a great day! The team went to 3 primary schools, however before reaching their first destination, they took an accidental 2 hour tour of the Uganda country-side that consisted of passing our soon to be established church more than once. With 14 people in one van, including sound equipment, personal space was not an option, but bonding however, was mandatory. The team finally reached the 3 schools and they thought it was amazing to see the children marvel at their white skin. All of the children were filled with great joy as the team gave their testimonies along with Ben's inspirational sermon. They could see God work in each of the student's lives. It was truly incredible. As the team prayed their last prayer, they had no doubt in their minds that God was present in these schools. The team began to realize that they learned more from these children than the children learned from them. So after 2 packages of glucose biscuits, a box of peanut butter sandwiches, a bag of jolly ranchers, and several hours later they arrived back at the hotel. They wish that you could have been there with them but thank goodness that you weren't! There was no more room left in the van.

Today Robert Rendall and his interpreter Stephan had a full day of visiting people on the trails and in the fields. They were in a hurry to get back to the bus when they stopped to take a picture of the poster advertising the crusade at the new Kanyumu Presbyterian Church. As they were walking away some children came running after them. Stephen determined there was an elderly lady that wanted to be prayed for. Upon arriving at her hut, her daughter explained the woman was very sick. She had been in the hospital in March and had been sent home. She was paralyzed on her left side and had a tumor. She was in very bad condition. Stephen and Robert went into her hut and prayed for her and her family. She was a Christian and although she was very ill, it was apparent she was very grateful.

The children's crusade was the best it has been so far. There were close to 400 kids packed into the church. Today is the first day that we had a microphone and it made all the difference in the world. We sang a Ugandan song as an introduction, and then Melissa told the children the story of Noah. When asked who had heard of Noah, only 5 kids raised their hands. They really enjoyed the story. The children's team then alternated between American songs and Ugandan songs. The American songs were: "He's got the whole world in his hands", "If you're happy and you know it", and "Happy all the time". We had some extra time at the end of the lesson, so Jared, a young Ugandan man who has helped with the children's crusade in previous years, came and sang more songs with them. The children were so excited. It was a wonderful experience.

More than 260 women came from 75 churches throughout eastern Uganda and Kenya for the Women's Health Conference that our team hosted at the Mbale Church today. The conference included four workshops: Karen and Cynthia led the childbirth and women's health section, Vicki taught on family planning, Pat and Kathy led a section on nutrition, including a cooking demonstration and Connie taught CPR. The women were amazingly open and uninhibited about the subject matter. They were quick to laugh and ask many follow-up questions. One of the highlights each year for the women at this conference is the closing ceremony. All the women anxiously await their "official" certificate complete with gold seal and signatures! Each church receives a bag of conference materials to take back to their congregations. An unexpected blessing followed the ceremony when a woman in the group suggested that the conference teachers be lifted up in prayer. We were lifted up in prayers "Uganda style" as all the women gathered around us, praying out loud, all at the same time. It was a beautiful ending to very special day for each of us.

The prison team, consisting of Ramon Billhimer, Robert Winkler, and Jeff Darr, went to the newly started Kibbuku Prison about an hour west of Mbale. The prison was smaller than expected, but the warden, his staff, and the inmates were glad to welcome the team. Ramon and Robert shared their testimonies about how God had worked in their lives. Robert was also able to share with the inmates that there were 127 American inmates from the Lynaugh Unit in Fort Stockton, TX (where Robert is part of a Kairos prison ministry) who were praying, at that very moment, for the inmates at Kibbuku. This really touched the inmates and staff. Jeff then gave a wonderful sermon on how God's grace is freely given to all who trust in Christ. When Pastor Moses from Uganda asked who wanted to receive Christ, five inmates came forward and Jeff led them through the "sinner's prayer". Many other inmates who did not come forward could be seen praying as well. As at all prisons, the team presented some essential items, such as, soap, blankets and water containers to the warden for which he was most appreciative. To see Christ changing lives made it a rewarding day at the prison.

Please continue to pray for the health of our team, for the medical clinic that will begin tomorrow and for a great harvest of new believers for the new church in Kanyumu.

Blessings to all of you back home.