Tuesday, June 29, 2010

FPC Uganda Mission: Update #4

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.

Update #4
Another beautiful day in Mbale. We have had rains in the evenings this week but have been blessed with good weather during our days in Kanyumu. Our praise choir led us in song and Tamara Rogers led our devotional time on the second half of the chapter entitled, “Suffering”. It has been remarkable how each devotional has been perfect for the day. Today the team was on the trail, in schools, at a prison and at the water well dedication.

Memories of the day:

It was obvious that God had already been working in the Torono Prison when Walter, Cynthia, Hannah, and Thomas arrived this afternoon. Immediately after walking through the gates, they saw a large group of men and women standing under a tree. It was not the bright yellow uniforms that caught their eye, but rather the prisoner’s voices that cried out, “THIS IS THE DAY THE LORD HAS MADE…” over and over again. One man was standing in front of the others leading them in praise. His smile and the way his eyes shown made it obvious that this man was filled with a joy that only comes from God. Not long after, Pastor Moses, the Ugandan prison ministry leader, introduced Walter, Cynthia, Hannah, and Thomas to the prisoners. Cynthia, Thomas, and Hannah gave their testimonies. Walter preached, and Pastor Moses gave several passionate “sermonettes” in between. Many men and woman accepted Christ. But what was so powerful was watching the prisoners worship. At one point they sang the song “I’m trading my sorrows, I’m trading my shame, I’m laying them down for the joy of the Lord.” It was incredible to see how they understood they were truly forgiven because of Jesus Christ. Their hearts had been set free. Afterwards, the prisoner who had led the singing came up to talk. He said his name was Emmanuel. He explained that he had been in prison for 3 years but that he had one more day left. He had accepted Christ in prison and it was clear that God has been using him to minister to his fellow inmates for quite some time. His joy was striking and beautiful to see. Walter, Cynthia, Hannah, and Thomas are very happy for Emmanuel and will be praying for him to continue to walk with Christ in his new life outside of prison.

Vicki Miller, along with Pastor David were on the trail today. They went to a home and talked to a young mother. She sat very quietly and listened as they shared the gospel. She asked several questions, but was not ready to confess her faith in Jesus. They invited her to the crusade and she and her child came. The Holy Spirit must have spoken to her because there she was at the alter call!!

Today Ramon, Steve, and Garrett went to witness the commission of a new water well. They were there as representatives of First Presbyterian Church and it’s donation for this particular well. The water commissioner for all of Uganda came to speak and bless the well in front of 90 tribe members. This is the same well Ramon has helped commission. Steve, Ramos, Dr. Patrick, and Morris all spoke. Garrett recorded the video for Uganda TV. Much appreciation was given to First Presbyterian. They stressed that clean water can make a difference in each village for generations to come if it is well taken care of by the villagers.

On the trail today, Kathy Schorr and her interpreter entered a well-kept compound-- three huts, large circles of millet, beans, and rice drying on the ground, six small pigs dozing in the shade, chickens, healthy crops of maize, pineapple and mango trees all around. The “mama” of the house, Joyce Mary, a mother of 12 (3 sets of twins, plus 3 more!) was surprisingly home alone. A wonderful chat about motherhood ensued. Kathy learned that Joyce Mary (her friends call her “mama twins”) had been aware of the new church and that she had been longing to hear about Jesus, and make significant changes in hr life. Apparently to earn extra money for her children’s schooling she had been brewing and selling banana beer on the side. Joyce Mary determined she would give up this side job and raise pigs and extra crops instead. She accepted Christ as her Savior and looks forward to joining the church with her husband and children. In celebration, Kathy asked to take her picture. Mary was jubilant! She insisted on changing her clothes, “picking” her hair, and posing in her hut by her bed with 2 shovels! She explained that she had building tools if help was needed at the church. After gifting Kathy with 12 ears of maize, she danced down the trail, beaming, with her new sisters in Christ.

Jeff, Robin and Elizabeth went to schools today. They reported that they got stuck in the mud and had to hike into the first school, then the van wouldn’t start. After some field repair, it eventually started and they pushed it out of the mud for a second time. Those small setbacks did not keep them from accomplishing what they set out to do, which was to visit three schools, with approximately 1500 students combined. Robin and Elizabeth gave testimonies that worked very well together, because together they illustrated to the students that you don’t have to be an adult to be saved. You can accept Jesus at 6, 9, or 12 years of age. Robin also made a point to the teachers that you are never too old to be saved. The schools, which were very rural, all seemed to be very well run and the students were very well behaved. As always, we played the UNCLE game. That is where all of the visitors, Jeff, Robin, Elizabeth and their Ugandan partners, Susan, Millicent, Ben and Mike were all introduced as UNCLE Jeff, UNCLE Robin, UNCLE Elizabeth, UNCLE Susan ... After a while the Ugandan team explain to the children that UNCLE stands for:
U – You, N – Need, C - Christ, L – Live, E – Eternally ... You Need Christ to Live Eternally!!!

Many children accepted Jesus as their Savior today, as did three teachers. It was a very good day at the schools.

Karen Williams and Jim Alsup led the discipleship class. Robert Rendall, Connie Morrow and Karen Lang gave their testimonies at the crusade. They were very powerful messages and very well received. The Ugandan praise team was great and the translators all got into the spirit and formed a chorus line of dancing and singing. So fun. Robert Winkler gave the sermon and it was a great way to end our day. Many people came forward during the altar call and accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior.

Tomorrow we will be on the trail, at schools, at the prisons and leading a Women’s Health seminar. We can definitely feel your prayers as many have been answered this week. Please continue to pray for wisdom, health and boldness for the team.

Ya lama noi! (Thank you very much!)

Monday, June 28, 2010

Midland Group Reports Imprisoned Chinese Church Leaders Released

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 Imprisoned Chinese Church Leaders Released

Released by ChinaAid, May, 2010 ...

"HENAN, CHINA – On May 5, sixteen major house church leaders from different provinces were detained while meeting for prayer and Bible study.They were held at a detention center in Luoyang city. ChinaAid urged the international community to call on the authorities to release the pastors, including Pastor Li Fuxing from Shandong and Pastor Zhang "Peter" Bide. Because of international pressure, on May 21 all the house church leaders were released!"
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

Thursday, June 24, 2010

FPC Uganda Mission: Photo Album #2


After months of preparation, a team of our brothers and sisters in Christ - men, women and children from West Texas - are at work 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.

Photo Album #2

Carole and Robert at the schools


Pat at the water well


Ralph giving his testimony


Young boys and young man saved on the trail

FPC Uganda Mission: Update #3


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.

Update #3
Cynthia Howard gave our devotional this morning on the first part of chapter 3 entitled, "Suffering". Through the discussion, Cynthia had team members share about times when they endured suffering and found joy in the midst. A quote from the book would help prepare the team for what they would encounter on the trails at Kanyumu - " When I discover that I am no longer alone in my struggle and when I start experiencing a new "fellowship in weakness", then true joy can erupt, right in the middle of my sorrow. But it is not easy to step out of our isolation. Somehow we always want to solve our problems on our own. But God has given us to each other to build a community of mutual love where we can discover together that joy is not for others but for all of us."

Stories from the day:

Today Robert Rendall had a most unexpected thing happened while visiting houses on the outskirts of Kanyumu. While he and his amazing interpreter, Stephen, were sharing the story of Jesus with a couple, a woman who lived in the next house was listening and asked Robert and Stephen to come talk to her. After completing the visit with the first couple, Stephen realized that the other woman spoke Swahili, which is not a language he can translate. After a difficult series of questions and answers they discovered they could speak limited amounts of another language. The woman explained that she was Muslim and her husband was Catholic. She wanted to be the same religion as her husband but did not know how to do so. Stephen was able to communicate with her and share the story of Jesus. After visiting for almost an hour the woman asked for help in becoming a Christian. She was happy to accept Jesus. It is our prayer that she and her husband will now grow in their faith together!

Allison Ellis was very nervous about going on the trails for the first time today. She was hesitant at first, she wasn't sure how she would tell them about Jesus. With her attitude, she felt she wouldn't get very far. Allison's first couple of houses were disastrous. She had no structure to what she was saying and was stuttering and stumbling on words all over the place. Then she experienced something wonderful. At the fourth or fifth house she arrived at, a man stopped her smack dab in the middle of her speech. She thought to herself "Oh gosh ... another failed attempt at speaking God's Word." The man began to speak to her about the structure of our states in America. He asked her if we had "sub-counties" back home in the United States. When she replied, "Yes sir, we do" he smiled a toothy grin and said, "Well here in Uganda we have sub-counties. Within these counties we have leaders and government officials, you see?" She imagined her response was nothing more than a confused expression, so he chuckled and told her, "Well I am the co-chairman of the county you are in right now. In this county, we lead according to our faith. I approved the building of the church you have been called to help, and I approved your visit to this village today." She felt so honored to have spoken to this man. He was so thankful and so gracious for everything that we were doing for the village of Kanyumu. She thanked him for allowing the church to be built and for allowing us to speak to his people. He told her how thankful he was that there were people coming that would help to affirm the Word of God, because that was the motive behind the area's leadership. As she left, the man smiled and shook her hand, and as she turned to leave he shouted, "Go do God's will!" Allison received a much-need affirmation on this day and it has given her new strength to continue to share God's Word.

Karen Williams' first day witnessing on the trail in Uganda was absolutely wonderful. She was matched with her interpreter Sandra and it turned out to be a very good fit. Right out of the gate two young boys and one young man trusted Christ as their Lord and Savior. Karen was also blessed to lead a discipleship class of some 30-40 people. This is the first time a class geared toward the new convert has been offered in the history of a FPC church plant. Praise God for the gift of Karen and her passion to disciple and nourish new believers.

Ramon Billhimer and Pat Hunter went with Dr. Patrick to visit the artesian water wells that FPC has recently constructed. The first well they visited was constructed in memory of Ramon's brother and made the visit especially moving for Ramon. Ramon and Pat had great visits with the villagers at each of the wells. They were so very grateful for the clean water now provided in their community. Ramon and Pat made sure the people knew that God sent the water wells and that we were only His messengers and instuments.

Steve Schorr, Ben Spinks and Melissa Rendall went to the prison today. It was a small, low security prison where most inmates are housed for less than a year. There were 20-30 men and one woman. Ben preached about God's love and how it doesn't differ between him and the prisoners, which was very encouraging for the men. Steve shared his testimony about God knowing his name all his life, even when he wasn't following. It was powerful for the inmates to hear that the Lord has not forgotten them. Melissa thought she would be speaking to the women but they were at court today. She gave her testimony to the men and talked about the relationship between a father and their daughters and challenged them to turn from sin and be the spiritual leader and role model for their families. There were several men who prayed the confession prayer and then all praised God by singing a song about our Mighty God.

Connie's second encounter on the trail began with a major cultural faux pax. After introducing herself to a storeowner, he invited her to sit and talk with him and his family. In mid-sentence, Joseph, her translator, stopped her and directed her attention to the man at his side. It was the grandfather of the family - a tiny, grizzled stick of a man with coke bottle glasses, a cane, and a ferocious scowl on his face. In Ugandan culture, it is appropriate to address the elder of the family when speaking. She felt she had made a major blunder and just knew that he had closed his heart to anything she might say. But he allowed her to continue and tell him about God's grace and gift of eternal life. However, the whole time she was speaking, he was scowling and never once directed any head movement towards her. Her heart sunk at the thought of the potential result of her mistake. She came to the end of her talk and asked him if he understood and if he believed that Jesus died for his sins and was the Son of God. For the first time he slowly turned and looked at her. With a tear rolling down his cheek and a softened expression on his face, the grandfather nodded and said yes, he believed. We are all learning that God can use our shortcomings to fulfill his plans.

Carole Campbell, Robert and Karen Winkler visited three schools today. They were blessed to be with the Ugandan school team led by Pastor Godfrey, Susan and Mike. They visited Kanyum Primary (890 students), Aurot Primary (780 students) and Kanyum Secondary (400 students), all located near the new church at Kanyumu. The children were so well behaved, sitting quietly as the team shared their testimonies, sang songs and shared the Gospel. It is always amazing to be able to share the Good News of Christ Jesus with so many children at the schools. The team was especially excited about the 30 secondary students who gave their life to Christ today. It is wonderful to witness the next generation coming to the Lord. Robert, Karen and Carole finished at the schools in time to join the crusade and were pleased to see many of the students from the schools praising, singing and dancing.

Hannah Schorr, Vicki Miller and Ralph Green shared their testimonies at the crusade and Jeff Darr preached a powerful message to the people. It was a great day in Uganda!

Tomorrow will be another busy day for the team. Thanks to your prayers, the team members who were not feeling well are doing much better. We ask for prayers of encouragement for the team members so that they will be bold and confident in their purpose of sharing the Gospel on the trail, in the schools and at the prison.

Webale! (Thank you!)

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

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

Chad/Niger
Please pray for the 100,000 children in Chad and those in Niger who are susceptible to severe malnutrition because of the alarming food shortages in their countries. Poor rainfall and infestations last year have reduced the amount of food produced in the Sahel, a strip of land that stretches across the south of the Sahara (and includes parts of Chad and Niger) and is prone to drought and famine. Pray for those who are migrating to larger cities to seek food... that they will be protected from exploitation, especially children who are sent to beg in the streets.
A report from Reuters and alertnet.org


Haiti
Pray for the 1.5 million people of Haiti who are still living in makeshift camps in Port-au-Prince and surrounding towns five months after the January earthquake.
Continue to pray for the health and safety of the children in these overcrowded, cramped tent camps. Pray for children who are suffering serious health problems. Crowded and inadequate living conditions are contributing to illnesses like diarrhea, measles, tetanus, and diphtheria.
Please continue to pray for children who have been traumatized psychologically by the earthquake ... for those who have lost relatives, friends, schools, and homes. Pray that God will comfort children who are feeling the deep loss of security, protection, and love.
Pray for the resources needed to provide hurricane resistant housing for everyone now that the hurricane season has started. Forecasters predict that this may be one of the worst hurricane seasons in decades.
Please pray that the government of Haiti will quickly finalize its hurricane contingency plan, provide public information on preparing for the storms, and also provide a comprehensive housing and resettlement plan.
A report from Reuters and alertnet.org
A report from the Washington Post

India
Give thanks to God that the cyclone that hit southern India last month weakened before making landfall. Pray for the children and families that were severely affected by the heavy rainfall, flooding, and high winds from Cyclone Laila. Pray for those whose homes, schools, and businesses were flooded. A report from ReliefWeb
Give God thanks that the children and staff of Grace Home, Orphans First's orphanage in Guntur, were all safe and that the damage to the facility was limited to the outside walls. Pray that God will provide the resources needed to make repairs to the orphanage.

Pakistan (Presbyterian Education Board - http://www.peb.edu.pk/)
Thanks be to God for the work of the Presbyterian Education Board staff and volunteers in Pakistan with at-risk children from low income families. Pray that God will provide this ministry with the resources necessary to continue this work and reach out to and educate more impoverished children.

Uganda/United States
Please keep the mission team from First Presbyterian Church - Midland in prayer as they travel and minister in Uganda. Pray for their health and stamina on this mission trip. Pray for the children and families who are on the team and for those who remain behind providing support.
Pray that God will provide them with the right words as they move out onto the trail to share their faith with children, youth, and adults who might not have heard of Jesus Christ. Pray for the children and young people on this team as they share the message of Jesus Christ in schools and orphanages.
Give thanks to God for this opportunity to share the message of Jesus Christ and help with a new church planting effort

Faces of Children
Give thanks to God for the opportunity to invite women to pray for children at the Mo-Ranch 2010 Women's Conference in Central Texas earlier this month.
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.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Word from Uganda: "Another Holiday Adventure!!"

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 ...

Another Holiday Adventure!!

"So, I almost forgot to share about the fun housemate weekend we had at Sesse Island. After traveling 4 hours by bus and one hour by car, we reached Entebbe to start searching for the ferry dock,” Natalie writes. "As we would stop along the way the locals would say, 'Oh you better hurry. They will leave you.' Truly, this is the only place in Uganda that I have found does not follow African time. We reached the dock in time to literally run onto the boat. A good start to our fun adventures.”
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

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).

"A return to Prayer ..."

"Dear God,
Please remove from my mind the tendency to judge.
Please remove from my mind the tendency to hate.
Please remove from my mind the tendency to blame.
Please reveal to me, God, a way to stand in my power, through love instead of fear, and through peace instead of violence.
May I hear not the voice for anger, but only the voice for love.
And teach me, dear God, how not to hate those who hate me.
Transform all darkness into light, dear God, and use my mind as an instrument of your harmlessness.
I surrender to you my thoughts of violence.
Take these thoughts, God, and wash them clean.
Thank you very much.
Amen."
Illuminata, a Return to Prayer by Marianne Williamson

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, June 23, 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.

Grace and peace,
Chris

In the News ... "50 years young"

50 years young
Roy Waggoner
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - From his former role as pastor to his current role as member, the Rev. James Otterness is excited to see the church he founded, Lutheran Church of the Risen Lord, mark its 50th anniversary.

“There are lots of churches in Odessa, but we wanted a teaching church for people to get their questions answered. That’s my gift,” he said. “It’s nice to be amongst old friends as a member now, and it’s going to be a good reunion celebrating the 50 years."

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.
CLICK HERE for a related slideshow from the OA.

Monday, June 21, 2010

FPC Uganda Mission: Photo Album #1


After months of preparation, a team of our brothers and sisters in Christ - men, women and children from West Texas - are at work 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.

Photo Album #1


Thomas and Hannah making new friends

Allison enjoying the children

A simple offering

Sunday school in the corn field

God's promise over Uganda

Midland Group Reports Chinese Christian Petitioner Beaten and Detained

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 Christian Petitioner Beaten and Detained

Released by ChinaAid, May, 2010 ...

"XINJIANG, CHINA – On April 30, Feng Yongji, a Christian petitioner from Xinjiang was illegally intercepted by the Shanghai Domestic Protection Security Squad on her way to Shanghai during the opening ceremony of Expo 2010. The guards handed her over to the police of Shihezi (her hometown). As the Shihezi police "escorted" her home, four or five officers beat Feng so severely that she passed out. Feng Yongji is now being illegally detained at the Shihezi Police Detention Center. Her current condition is growing worse, and she is in dire need of medical attention."
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

FPC Uganda Mission: Update #2


After months odf preparation, a team of our brothers and sisters in Christ - men, women and children from West Texas - are 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 #2
Today was a blessed day for the team. We enjoyed a wonderful devotional time outside under the trees. It was such a joy to have Karen Lang and her “choir” lead us in our praise music this morning and we don’t sound half bad with her guitar keeping us in tune. Steve Schorr taught the devotional lesson on the second half of chapter one, entitled, “Living in the Present”. He summed up the lesson with Henri Nouwen’s words, “To live in the present, we must believe deeply that what is most important is the here and now.” What an inspiring way to begin our first Sunday in Uganda.

The group divided up into teams and went out to eight established churches in the region. Each team led Sunday Schools and the men on the teams preached in the pulpit. It is always a highlight of the mission trip to see how the previously planted churches are doing. Karen Williams, Melissa and Robert Rendall visited the church in Kidoko; Jeff, Robin and Elizabeth Darr visited the church in Trinyi; Ben Spinks, Ramon Billhimer and Karen and Garrett Lang visited the church in Kanjenima; Vicki Miller, Walter Thompson and Carole Campbell visited the church in Nalubembe; Cynthia Howard, Allison Ellis and Ralph Green visited the church in Sironko; Jim Alsup, Connie Morrow and Pat Hunter visited the church in Kuji; Tamara Rogers, Karen and Robert Winkler visited the church in Kanyolo; and Steve, Kathy, Hannah and Thomas Schorr visited the church in Mbale.

Following are just a few of the MANY memorable moments of the day:

Melissa Rendall shared about her experience of being in Uganda with her dad, Robert, on Father’s Day. She said it will be an experience she will never forget. On this day, she knew how blessed she was to have a father who is the Spiritual leader in her household and that he is not afraid to spread the Gospel. As she listened to him preach, she thought several times about the opportunity she was given on this day; to travel to Uganda and share Jesus with others along side her dad. She shared about how grateful she was to have such an amazing father and role model with whom to share the day in a country that has captured her heart.

Jeff, Robin and Elizabeth Darr went to the church in Trinyi. Robin was excited because she remembered that Fred, her and Malone’s translator from years past, was a member of the church. They did see Fred and it was great to see him. He is an elder at the church and still has a beautiful smile. However, last August he was involved in a motor vehicle accident and is now paralyzed on the entire right side of his body and has limited movement. The injury did not affect his ability to understand others, but it has limited his ability to speak. Since one of his sources of income was translating, this undoubtedly has been a tremendous hardship for he and his family. He needs your prayers. You could tell how difficult it was for him to walk as he came forward to put his offering in the basket. Please pray for Fred and his family.

When the team first arrived at the church in Kanjenima, Ben Spinks was introduced to Pastor Vincent. Ben recognized the name but could not place where he had heard it before. Later, in the middle of the service, Pastor Vincent called Ben up to the front of the church and, after reading Ben’s nametag, Pastor Vincent’s face lit up and he asked, “Spinks? Like the tall man?” (Referring to Ben’s dad, Al Spinks, a past team member). Ben excitedly told him “Yes!” Pastor Vincent was so excited and said Ben’s dad had preached at their church a year or two ago. It was an unbelievable experience for Ben. Pastor Vincent said that the church has been praying for Ben’s dad and for his family. It was truly a “God wink” moment for Ben on this special Father’s Day.

Karen and Garrett, as “newbies” on the trip, were amazed and blessed at the church in Kanjenima. The experienced team members, Ramon and Ben, helped in both calming their nerves and showing them the ropes. The team arrived at the church to the sound of a full congregation singing praises to God. They were welcomed with both smiles and hugs. The first thing that Karen and Garrett did was join in with the dancing and singing! Ben did a great job preaching the word – well beyond his years! Garrett led the men’s Sunday school lesson, read scriptures and answered questions – many, many questions. Karen was right at home with her guitar – singing and signing songs of God’s praise with the children in Sunday school. And, of course, Ramon was a pro at amazing the women with her love and knowledge of the Lord.

Karen Winkler had the privilege of visiting the church she helped plant on her first trip to Uganda four years ago. Karen and Joey Willis (a past team member) were blessed to have Gomeli, a member of the church in Kanyolo, as their interpreter for two years. To Karen’s surprise, Gomeli’s family was in attendance and she was thrilled to be able to reconnect with Janet, his wife, and some of their children. The biggest joy for Karen was holding “baby” Karen (her 2 year old Godchild) and meeting their newest edition – “baby” Joey! Karen cannot wait to tell Joey Willis he has a new Godchild in Uganda. God is so good.
On a lighter note, Pastor Steve (Schorr) had a first-ever “insect-in-church” experience at the Mbale church. Well into his message, Kathy noticed a bug crawling on the collar of Steve’s white shirt. The next thing she knew, a member of the congregation walked up to the pulpit, rapidly shot out his hand and crushed the insect on Steve’s neck! Steve didn’t know what hit him. The member calmly showed the bug to Steve and returned to his seat. The congregation went on as if nothing unusual had happened and the Schorr’s had to contain their hysterical laughter until after the service.

These are just a few of the memories from our first Sunday in Uganda. Please continue to keep the team members in your prayers as we begin our week in Kanyumu. Pray especially for the health of our team, as a few members are feeling a little under the weather. Pray for boldness for each of us as we begin our week on the trails, in the schools and in the prisons. And please remember to keep the Ugandan pastors, translators and drives in your prayers – they unselfishly give so much to us.

Praise God for his miraculous work in Uganda ... and just think ... it is only the beginning!

Sunday, June 20, 2010

HOT Topics at First Prez: All This Summer

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 - Augus t22, 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)

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Prayer Request for Natalie in Uganda

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 ...

Prayer Request ...

"No need to fear, but sharing so that you can be praying for me. I am sick with Malaria. I didn't feel normal yesterday, got tested, but the test came negative. So, i went home, but over the night I had awful body fatigue and chills. Today, my sweet roommate stopped at the pharmacy to bring me some medicine before church. Better safe than sorry. So, I believe (in Jesus' name) that I am on the road to recovery. It just isn't fun to feel this way. Again, NO NEED TO WORRY. I am being treated and in good hands. Though malaria seems scary from an American perspective, it is VERY common here. Just pray for quick and full recovery.

But it has given me a new perspective and sensitivity to the hundred or thousands that live in the village and are too far from a clinic to get tested or treatment. Lord, have mercy on these people. You alone are the doctor of all doctors and can heal with or without medicine.”


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

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

FPC Uganda Mission: Update #1


After months odf preparation, a team of our brothers and sisters in Christ - men, women and children from West Texas - are bound for 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 #1

Dear Prayer Supporters,

Our trip leaves June 17 and we will be updating you regularly as we experience all God has planned for our trip to Uganda this year. Our long journey to Uganda begins tomorrow at about 11:00 am and, Lord willing, we'll arrive in Uganda Friday evening, local time. Please remember us in your prayers. Please pray that God would:

Give our team safe travel and guide us through all the details of getting around the world.

Continue preparing the soil of the people's hearts where we'll be working in Uganda.

Bless all those Ugandans who will be helping out with our team.

Keep all 27 of us on our team healthy and full of energy.

Please pray however else the Spirit might lead you, too. We'll check in with you again once we're settled in Uganda. Thank you all very much for your prayers. This is indeed how the body of Christ is supposed to work! God's blessings to each of you!

Peace,
Walter Thompson (on behalf of our whole team)
Associate Pastor of Mission and Evangelism
First Presbyterian Church, Midland, TX

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

Ethiopia (CURE International - http://www.helpcurenow.org/)
Pray for the disabled children receiving treatment at the CURE International Hospital in Ethiopia and for the medical staff and caregivers there. Also pray for a 14-year-old boy named Efa.

Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras
Please pray for the children and people of Central America who have been affected by tropical storm Agatha. Parts of Guatemala have received their highest rainfall in more than six decades. Pray for the 112,000 people evacuated from their homes across Guatemala. Pray for those in the southern part of the country who are also dealing with the eruption of the Pacaya volcano.
Pray for the children and people of El Salvador and Honduras who have also been affected by the heavy rains, flooding, and mudslides caused by the tropical storm.
A report from the BBC

China
Pray that God will comfort the families of seven children and two adults killed in an attack on a kindergarten in China earlier this month. Pray for those injured and traumatized in the attack. Please pray for an end to this kind of violence against children and those who are vulnerable.
A report from the BBC

North Korea, South Korea
Pray for the children and people of North Korea and South Korea as tensions are extremely high after the North severed all ties with the South. North Korean troops are on full alert ready to respond to any retaliation efforts by South Korea following the March 26 sinking of a South Korean warship, allegedly by the North. Pray that peace will prevail on the divided Korean peninsula and rational dialogue will resume between the two countries.
A report from alertnet.org

A report from the Washington Post
Another report from the Washington Post

Somalia
Please continue to lift the children of Somalia in prayer and ask that God protect them and provide for them. The UN estimates that nearly half the population of Somalia needs humanitarian assistance and deaths from malnutrition and disease are rising. Pray for the 400,000 people who are trapped in the Algooye corridor (a stretch of IDP camps outside Mogadishu) because of the violence and fighting in the capital city. Most of these internally displaced people are women and children.
A report from Reuters
Another report from Reuters

United States
Please keep 10-year-old Jessica held close in prayer as she undergoes testing to determine the cause of her seizures. Pray that she will be given a correct diagnosis and an effective treatment plan that will stop the seizures.
Pray that God will place healing hands upon 7-year-old Elizabeth who has been diagnosed with a malignant liver tumor. Please pray that she will make a full recovery from surgery and that her cancer treatment will be successful. Pray that God will bring comfort to this little girl and her family.
Give thanks to God that 5-year-old Chelbi is still doing well and is able to attend school. She was diagnosed with and treated for a rapidly advancing cancer last year. Last September her doctors couldn't find any more signs of cancer, thanks be to God!
Pray that God will provide comfort and healing for Amanda* and her two boys (aged 12 and 6). In a very uncharacteristic act of violence, Amanda's husband beat her badly enough to send her to the hospital. Pray that Amanda's sons will be surrounded by a loving and supportive community as they process this attack that they also witnessed. Pray for Amanda's husband who is now in jail. Pray that his doctors will be able to find out why he exhibited this atypical behavior and attacked his wife.
Please pray for the family of 16-year-old Brian* who shot himself in the head, in front of his mother, after emulating a video game in which the player shoots himself in the head whenever the player loses a turn. Pray that God will bring comfort and peace to Brian's mother, family, and friends.
Pray that parents, friends, and community members are aware of the video game and movie content their children are viewing. Pray that God will give them the courage to challenge the prevailing national attitude that tolerates excessive violence in media.
Pray that God will give wisdom and guidance to the young people in this country and others around the world who have access to this kind of disturbing media.
Pray for those in the video game and movie industry who make decisions about content ... that they take greater interest in and responsibility for the content of the materials they sell.
* Name changed for confidentiality and/or protection.

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 ... "Wake Up and Dream Summer Drive"

Greg Sherman
Reporter
KOSA-TV


ODESSA, TEXAS - It may not be cold outside anymore, but there are still people who need help.

That's why the non-profit organization “Wake Up and Dream” is shifting gears for the summer.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the KOSA story.

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Word from Uganda: "Other Happenings ..."

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 ...

Other Happenings ...

"This is the last week of holidays for the kids (and me). I have really enjoyed this break and made the most of my time,” Natalie writes. "Finally having some time to catch up on my reading, I have finished the first 2 books of the Chronicles of Narnia series and thoroughly enjoyed my morning coffee and time in the Word going through 1 Thes.”
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

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).

"Speak gently in my silence ..."

"Speak gently in my silence. When the loud outer noises of my surroundings and the loud inner noises of my fears keep pulling me away from you, help me to trust that you are still there even when I am unable to hear you. Give me ears to listen to your small, soft voice saying: 'Come to me, you who are overburdened, and I will give you rest ... for I am gentle and humble of heart.' Let that loving voice be my guide. Amen."
With Open Hands by Henri J.M. Nouwen

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,

I was drawn to a portion of this little book by Henri Nouwen that talks about prayer and silence because it seems like lately I've not done a fair job of finding much time for either in my life. The summer months are upon us out in West Texas and the calendar is full. God is good to provide so many wonderful opportunities to share the ministry of Faces of Children, but I confess that I'm feeling tired and overwhelmed by the schedule.

The other morning, I did something that I've not done in a long time and it felt so good, so right. I pulled out my Bible and read the devotional for the day in my Upper Room booklet. And then I just sat in silence in God's presence ... trying to still the swirling thoughts in my brain. I practiced listening, waiting, being quiet. What a healing time of prayer and silence.

If you struggle as I do to take those moments for yourself, I hope you will be encouraged by Nouwen's words. We are precious children of God and God wants to be in fellowship with us! We can be blessed and renewed through silence and prayer, through listening to God's gentle, soft voice in those moments of quiet. Thanks be to our loving God!

This coming Wednesday, June 16, 2010, we will meet to lift children in prayer 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, 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.

Renewed in the silence,
Chris

In the News ... "Passing on a torch"

Passing on a torch
Roy Waggoner
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - “Like grandfather like grandson.”

That’s how the Rev. Darrell Sutton describes his following in his grandfather’s footsteps by starting his own church, Living Word Ministries.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.
CLICK HERE for a related slideshow from the OA.

Monday, June 14, 2010

Midland Group Releases Imprisoned Chinese Pastor's Defense Document

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 Releases Imprisoned Chinese Pastor's Defense Document

Released by ChinaAid, May, 2010 ...

"SHANXI, CHINA – Yang Rongli, one of the five Linfen Church pastors currently imprisoned, released her defense document on January 15, 2010, explaining in great detail the facts of her case and why her actions were not criminal. After being sentenced to 7 years in prison for "unlawfully occupying agricultural land and assembling crowds to disturb traffic order," Yang Rongli joined the other imprisoned pastors (Wang Xiaoguang, Yang Xuan, Zhang Huamei, and Cui Jiaxing) in filing an appeal in January. The Linfen Courts rejected the appeal in February 2010, upholding their guilty verdict."
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

Sunday, June 13, 2010

HOT Topics at First Prez: All This Summer

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)

Friday, June 11, 2010

In the News ... "Priest returns to Midland to be rector of Holy Trinity"

Priest returns to Midland to be rector of Holy Trinity
By Megan Lea Buck
Assistant Lifestyle Editor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - The Rev. John Wedgwood-Greenhow lived in Midland for two years in the mid-1980s before spending more than 20 years in northern California and South Dakota. When given the opportunity to move back to West Texas, the Episcopal priest said he "jumped at it."

Wedgwood-Greenhow is the new rector of The Episcopal Church of the Holy Trinity. His official installation is planned for Aug. 26. He and wife Myrna have five children and several grandchildren.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Prayer Request from Joel at ServLife International

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.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and Forever!

Biblical scholars debate the author of Hebrews but no one can debate the words of Jesus that the author writes from what Jesus said, "I am the same yesterday, today, and Forever." (13:8)

In recent days, change has occured in my life that have allowed these words to offer hope and healing. Change is constant. Think about it: Our children change, technology changes, govenrmnets change, our economy changes, global crises change, personal relationships change, families change, and the list can go on and on. Change is a part of the human experience called life and proven through the history of humanity. Some change we embrace and other change we have a hard time accepting. Friendships are broken, financial stress causes pain, or we move to a new city.

In the midst of change, Jesus Christ has been and will continue to be the same. He is always present to heal, restore, and offer peace in our changing lives and world.

We here at ServLife are going through some changes and I ask for you to pray for our mission and those we touch around the world. ServLife exists for the purpose of offering the life of Jesus Christ to those in the world. I trust in the midst of changes in your own life, God will comfort you with the words of Jesus penned by the author of Hebrews.

Humbly His

Joel

In the News ... "Heating up"

Called to serve
John Corrales
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Air conditioners are like printers — they consciously deny you when you need them the most.

And in these sweltering summer months, finding a way to cool off is no easy feat for anyone, but the burden of doing so is especially heavy on those economically less fortunate in the community. Various organizations, such as Catholic Charities, United Way and Servants for the Poor are all willing to do what they can to alleviate the air conditioning stresses that summer winds tend to stoke.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

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

Myanmar/Burma (Free Burma Rangers - http://www.freeburmarangers.org/)
Please pray for the children of Burma's Karen state who have few options for schooling after the sixth grade. Pray for those whose education is interrupted by Burma Army attacks, untreated illness, hunger, and the struggle to find food. Pray for children whose hope for the future is literally at risk without an education.
Give God thanks for the Free Burma Rangers who risk their lives to serve the marginalized ethnic hill tribes of Burma ... who literally stand between them and the Burma Army. Please pray that God will provide for the needs of these courageous servants as they care for the children and people of Burma.

India (Dalit Freedom Network - http://www.dalitnetwork.org/)
Give thanks to God for the work of the Dalit Freedom Network in helping victims of trafficking and raising awareness about this issue. Please pray for the safety and protection of those working with young trafficking victims. Pray for the leaders who work in rescue homes with girls brought out of brothels. Pray that God will be at work in mighty ways through these leaders in helping victims of commercial sexual exploitation. Pray for the girls ... that God will bring them comfort, peace, and healing in this safe environment.

China
Pray that God will comfort the families of seven children and two adults killed in an attack on a kindergarten in China earlier this month. Pray for those injured and traumatized in the attack. Please pray for an end to this kind of violence against children and those who are vulnerable.
A report from the BBC

Nigeria
Please pray for the estimated 15,000 children in Nigeria who have been accused of being witches. Pray for children who have been cast out of their homes and communities because of these accusations. Vulnerable children are easy targets for any misfortune that may happen in their families. Pray for children who are orphaned, sick, disabled, or poor and make easy scapegoats for family or community members.
Pray for those who have been tortured, mutilated, beaten, or starved in violent "exorcisms." Please pray that God will bring comfort to children who have been hurt in this way, sometimes by their own parents or family.
Pray for accused children who are abandoned and sold into slavery to child traffickers. Pray for those who are now indentured house servants or prostitutes. Pray for their protection, freedom, healing, and restoration.
Give thanks to God for the child rights law in the state of Akwa Ibom that makes it illegal to denounce children as witches. Pray for increased education about and awareness of this destructive form of child abuse.
Pray for the spirit of truth to prevail throughout the churches and communities in which this practice is spreading.
A report from the Journeyman Pictures (warning disturbing images)

A report from the BBC
A report from CBS News

Papua New Guinea
Keep the estimated 20,000 people of northwestern Papua New Guinea held close in prayer as they cope with the worst flooding in 40 years.
Pray for children who will be more vulnerable to water borne diseases and malaria because of the flooding.
Pray that medical supplies, mosquito nets, and supplemental nutrition will be able to reach those most in need like children and pregnant women. Transporting supplies into this area is very challenging during times of heavy flooding.
Give thanks to God for the strong community support system in place that has helped residents cope with the excessive flooding.
A report from alertnet.org

United States
Give thanks to God for the upcoming forum on civility, community, and concern sponsored by the Midland Association of Churches. Pray that God will provide the leaders of this fall forum with discernment and guidance as they plan this event.

Faces of Children
Give God thanks and praise for the new Faces of Children prayer partners in Zambia.
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.