Contribute to Africa mission's 'net effect'

Mosquito net treated with long-lasting insecticide? $10.00 ... Helping West Texans control one of Africa's biggest killers? Priceless ...

A mission team from First Presbyterian Church-Midland will be headed for Tanzania June 17-29. A full schedule of diverse activities will include the distribution of specially-treated mosquito nets to residents of that part of Africa - where mosquitos are FAR MORE than just a nuisance.

The efforts in Tanzania by First Prez-Midland are part of an ongoing campaign - fought by a wide variety of individuals and organizations - against debilitating, even deadly diseases that plague the Third World. The fight against malaria, in particular, was documented in this article by Robert M. Poole, in the June, 2007 issue of Smithsonian Magazine. The article focuses particularly on former-President of the United States Jimmy Carter's efforts in Ethiopia, but it provides good insight into the mission and methods of this "crusade to eliminate malaria, an elusive and ever-changing killer" from the African continent.

"Now rare in developed countries," the article notes, "the disease kills more than a million victims each year in the world's poorest regions. At least 300-million people worldwide are incapacitated by malaria infections. The disease's aches, fever, chills and other flu-like symptoms not only inhibit economic productivity but also suppress immune systems in its victims, making them more susceptible to tuberculosis and AIDS—both of which kill even more people than malaria does—and other life-threatening ailments."

The new nets being distributed in Africa add a high-tech twist to the old protective strategy: they not only block the insects, but also kill any that come in contact with the nets, since they have an insecticide (one with no apparent risk to humans) woven into the mesh.

And they cost just $10 apiece. Won't you help? Please leave a contribution at First Prez-Midland, on the northwest corner of A and Texas streets, on the west edge of downtown Midland. For more information, please call Pastor Walter Thompson at 684-7821 (Ext. 115)

Free Burma Rangers schedules season of Regional Meetings in the U.S.

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

Free Burma Rangers schedules season of Regional Meetings in the U.S.

"Dear Friends, Free Burma Rangers are planning meetings this summer to include prayer, worship, updates on the situation in Burma and collaboration on action plans for how to take action for the people of Burma. Dave and Karen Eubank and family will be at these meetings along with others working with FBR."

Regional Meetings, 2011

ST. GEORGE, UTAH @ Calvary Chapel St. George, Sunday, June 5, 2011

WIMBERLY, TEXAS @ Cypress Creek Church, Saturday, June 18, 2011

SILOAM SPRINGS, ARKANSAS (more information TBA), Saturday, June 25, 2011

NEWTON, MASSACHUSETTS @ Newton Presbyterian Church, Saturday, July 9, 2011

COLORADO (more information TBA), Saturday, July 23, 2011

ANCHORAGE, ALASKA @ Faith Christian Church, Saturday, Sept 10, 2011

"We welcome you to join us for the meeting in your area. For more information please contact; Amy Galetzka at amygaletzka@gmail.com Thank you and God Bless you,"

Free Burma Rangers

In the News ... "A work in progress: New children's wing completed at St. Luke's"

By Sara Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Small children milled about rooms with nameslike "Fireflies," "Dragonflies," "Angels" and "Honeybees." Laughter bounced off the walls of the lively, new building at St. Luke's United Methodist Church. The church's new Child Development Program wing was completed last week, marking progress in the church's $2.7 million Building on Faith campaign. The construction will provide additional educational spaces for both adults and youth, as well as renovations to children's ministries rooms and adult spaces.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Sparkling Mission

Annie Dieselberg heads the staff at NightLight, a ministry in urban Bangkok, Thailand, that reaches out to women and children working in the bar areas of the Nana-Sukhumvit district. Located in a neighborhood with a growing sex trade, Nightlight’s vision is to share the Light of the world in both word and deed to those who live in darkness, and to combat the sexual exploitation of women and children, both Thai and foreign.

Right now, Annie tells us, the greatest need at NightLight is to sell more jewelry. NightLight Design Co., Ltd. is a registered jewellery business which employs women coming out of prostitution or having been at risk of prostitution and/or trafficking.

If you are interested in hosting a jewelry party please write to Charity at NightLight, at charity@nightlightusa.org, and she will assist you in setting that up.

Remember the beautiful jewelry is also available on-line at nightlightinternational.com

"God is going before us to the bars preparing the way. He is sending us to receive the women and give hope," Annie writes. "We ask you to join us in this adventure. Thank you to those of you who already do. You are saving lives!"

St. Andrew's Presbyterian Mission has an opportuntity for YOU

Even as the 2010/2011 school year is wrapping-up in West Texas, people are already looking ahead to the next school year, and making plans to meet the needs of schoolchildren in the Tall City. These include the staff and volunteers at Saint Andrew's Presbyterian Mission, located at 1708 N. Fort Worth Street, in Midland.

St. Andrew's has a "Latch-Key" after-school program for elemetary-age children, and welcomes volunteers yo give special presentations for the children, to expand their horizons.

Do you have a special skill or unique craft, a special area of knowledge, a special collection? Please contact San Juana Prado, Director of Educational Services, at (432) 682-2351.

In the News ... "Local Church Adopts Elementary School, Boosts Teacher Morale"

By Shelley Childers
Reporter
KOSA-TV

ODESSA, TEXAS - A local church is taking a unique approach to getting more involved in the community. The congregation at Asbury Methodist Church in Odessa has adopted an elementary school in hopes of making a difference for teachers and students.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the KOSA story.

Word from Uganda: "Look what the Lord has done!"

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 ...

Look what the Lord has done!

When I arrived on May 2, 2007 for a three month internship, there were 45 children who shared one dormitory (boys on one side, girls on the other), 16 staff, 2 house mothers, school was happening in the main hall, and children were rushed into town for any medical problem.

Now there are 110 children sleeping in three beautiful housing quarters, over 20 staff, 4 house mothers, a fully registared school that educated 170 children last term, and a clinic on site to serve the medical needs of the LCH children and staff.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of Natalie's post

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If you are interested in supporting LCH by sponsoring one of the 90 children, go to 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

From ServLife International: "Living the Gospel, Sponsoring a Child"

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.

"Living the Gospel, Sponsoring a Child"

Love mercy, do justice ... Sponsoring an orphaned child or a child-at-risk through ServLife is a powerful and effective step ahead in doing justice now. Your sponsorship will ensure that children in the some of the most difficult circumstances will get an education, a home, healthy food and clothing, and opportunity to experience the love of Christ. With over 210 children now being served, we continue to extend the borders of our care for at-risk children but we need your help. Play your part!

Sponsor a child ... Will you take action now and sponsor a child? We currently have sixty (60) children in Nepal and India needing your help. For $30/month you can sponsor one child and directly empower a new generation for God's purposes. Put your compassion into action. Love mercy. Live the gospel!

- Read the Child Sponsorship Program FAQ pages

- Contact us for more information on sponsoring a child

ServLife International is a non-profit organization planting communities of the Kingdom and restoring hope to children-at-risk and the global poor.

ServLife International, Inc.
P.O. Box 20596
Indianapolis, IN 46220
USA

Meals-on Wheels needs YOU

The changes of seasons and people's calendars are creating an immediate need at Meals-on-Wheels of Midland for extra volunteers. Drivers, riders and food-packing colunteer are needed to deliver meals to 450 elderly people daily.

Everyone is busy, but the meals don't stop. Meals-on-Wheels deliveries begin at 10:30 - 11:00 a.m., Monday through Friday. The Meals-on-Wheels staff can find a day convenient for you, and it takes about an hour to drive a route.

Give a gift of your time to the homebound elderly of Midland. Call Shanda Garner at 689-6693, for more information.

In the News ... "Midland College, community start initiative to help first-generation college students"

By Audrie Palmer
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Seven local community organizations signed partnership agreements with Midland College Thursday morning to form the First Generation to College Alliance and help an initiative to get more students into higher education. The agencies - Casa de Amigos, Emanuel Baptist Church, Greater Ideal Baptist Church, Midland Independent School District, St. Stephen's Catholic Church, Teen Flow and True-Lite Christian Fellowship - will work with the college to assist those students who are the first members of their families enrolling in any education beyond high school.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

In the News ... "Diocese aids tornado victims"

Staff Report
Odessa American

SAN ANGELO, TEXAS - The Catholic Diocese of San Angelo has raised and sent $16,869.34 to help victims of recent tornadoes in the southern United States. Nearly 300 people have died in tornadoes that ravaged through six states in late April.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

Teichert Prayer Letter for April

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.

April Prayer Letter, ...

Dear family and friends,

We are grateful to God for opening a door for the gospel in the country of Namibia. Karl and a close ministry partner, Pastor Gabriel Francis, were given the opportunity to facilitate a Daughtering New Churches course from February 9-12 to 45 leaders in Okahandja, Namibia. This is the first time our team has been invited to serve in this African country. Here is what some of the leaders had to say about the training:

“God is awaking a fresh revival of truth and church planting in Namibia.”

“This course is helping to lay a solid foundation upon the Rock of Jesus Christ.”

“The presence of God’s glory will be established through the planting of local churches.”

Most of the leaders came from the northern part of Namibia along the Angolan border where most of the population lives. This region is dominated by traditional African religion and nominal Christian beliefs. Pastor Gabriel and his family were sent as missionaries from Nigeria to serve in this region for about six years. About half of the participants were firstand second-generation leaders as a result of their ministry.

We were also thrilled that nearly all of the participants wanted to stay for the certified trainer course as well, to teach other leaders in their remote areas. Each leader developed goals and strategies to train and mentor other leaders to multiply disciple-making churches in unchurched villages. Gabriel and Karl were invited to return in June to follow up with the leaders and invite others from different parts of Namibia to receive the training. Please pray for these leaders to effectively train up others to boldly witness for Christ and start new disciple-making congregations in their areas.

Thank you for your partnership in the gospel with us! We are so grateful for your faithful prayers and support in the Lord’s mission

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.

Contribute to Africa mission's 'net effect'

Mosquito net treated with long-lasting insecticide? $10.00 ... Helping West Texans control one of Africa's biggest killers? Priceless ...

A mission team from First Presbyterian Church-Midland will be headed for Tanzania June 17-29. A full schedule of diverse activities will include the distribution of specially-treated mosquito nets to residents of that part of Africa - where mosquitos are FAR MORE than just a nuisance.

The efforts in Tanzania by First Prez-Midland are part of an ongoing campaign - fought by a wide variety of individuals and organizations - against debilitating, even deadly diseases that plague the Third World. The fight against malaria, in particular, was documented in this article by Robert M. Poole, in the June, 2007 issue of Smithsonian Magazine. The article focuses particularly on former-President of the United States Jimmy Carter's efforts in Ethiopia, but it provides good insight into the mission and methods of this "crusade to eliminate malaria, an elusive and ever-changing killer" from the African continent.

"Now rare in developed countries," the article notes, "the disease kills more than a million victims each year in the world's poorest regions. At least 300-million people worldwide are incapacitated by malaria infections. The disease's aches, fever, chills and other flu-like symptoms not only inhibit economic productivity but also suppress immune systems in its victims, making them more susceptible to tuberculosis and AIDS—both of which kill even more people than malaria does—and other life-threatening ailments."

The new nets being distributed in Africa add a high-tech twist to the old protective strategy: they not only block the insects, but also kill any that come in contact with the nets, since they have an insecticide (one with no apparent risk to humans) woven into the mesh.

And they cost just $10 apiece. Won't you help? Please leave a contribution at First Prez-Midland, on the northwest corner of A and Texas streets, on the west edge of downtown Midland. For more information, please call Pastor Walter Thompson at 684-7821 (Ext. 115)

In the News ... "Holy Cross pastor settles into new position"

By Sara Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - The Reverend Danny Anderson was ironing his robe in a hotel for his first Sunday as pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 5110 N. Garfield St., when he heard an ominous hissing sound. He looked down in horror to find he had burned a hole right in the front of the garment. The pastor wore the robe anyway, and later women from the congregation helped to patch the imperfection.

"I don't think I'm going to fix it — it has character now," said Anderson, who has been at Holy Cross for three weeks. "It reminds me that, hey, I'm just a normal guy being used by God. It keeps me humble."
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Invitation to Prayer

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

Daily Renewal

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

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

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

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

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

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,

When reading Marianne Williamson's thoughts on love and fear, on light overcoming darkness, on the transformative power of prayer in our lives, one verse from the New Testament kept surfacing in my memory.

"... for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."
2 Timothy 1:7 (English Standard Version)

There is much to be afraid of in this world, isn't there? Just reading through the Faces of Children prayer list confirms that for me. However, it didn't really sink in until now that if I listen to the fear mongers of the world and the fearful voice in my head instead of the Voice of love, a little part of me dies a quiet death. No funeral, no memorial service, no celebration of life ... just death. That's not the way I really want to live. How about you?

The Midland Faces of Children prayer group will meet on Wednesday, May 25, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride's room at First Presbyterian Church-Midland to pray for children ... to take part in the "counterforce to the world's despair." I hope you will be able to join us. Lunch ($5) and a time of fellowship will follow.

If you have requests about children, those who care for them, those who have authority over them, or those who harm them (the really hard prayers to say sometimes), please send them to me at at claufer@facesofchildren.net, or give me a call.

Claiming the spirit of love,

Chris

In the News ... "A new direction for New Dimensions"

By Lyxan Toledanes,
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS -In the classic Shakespearean question, “What’s in a name?” the answer for one Odessa church is “change.” Formerly called Greater Mount Sinai Baptist Church, the little white church house on East Ninth Street is now known as New Dimensions Worship Center.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

Midland Group Offers "Prayer Band That Started a Revolution"

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

Issued by ChinaAid ...

"This prayer band has been declared illegal in China."

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

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

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


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

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

» Click here to order a China Prayer Band

In the News ... "Church purchases first building after decade of renting space"

By Megan Lea Buck
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Providence Presbyterian Church, a Presbyterian Church in America congregation, recently purchased its first building. The 16-year-old church has rented the parish hall space at St. Paul's Anglican Church for the past 10 years. The congregation moved to the sanctuary after purchasing the building in March.

The church is hosting a special thanksgiving and rededication service at 4 p.m. Sunday in their new sanctuary. Rob Bailey, from Providence Presbyterian Church in Lubbock, will be the guest speaker. The service is open to the community.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 21, 2011

HONG KONG - Each year, the Hong Kong Christian Council (HKCC) provides opportunities for ecumenical worship during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The members of HKCC are primarily from traditional mainline churches, but maintain cordial relations with the Hong Kong Catholic Church and include the Orthodox Metropolitanate.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 20, 2011

CHINA - Like many churches in China, St. Paul's in Nanjing is reaching out and growing. During the last Christmas season, over one hundred people completed seekers' classes and were baptized. St. Paul's is currently building a new branch church a few miles to its south.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 19, 2011

SINGAPORE - One of the smallest nations of the world, multiethnic Singapore, has just under five million people. The PC(USA) has been most directly involved through its relationship with the Presbyterian Church in Singapore and Trinity Theological College, an ecumenical seminary.

MALAYSIA - Malaysia is almost as divided ethnically, culturally, and economically as it is geographically. Its population comprises indigenous Malays who are primarily Muslim, indigenous groups of various faiths from the island of Borneo, and ethnic Chinese who generally follow Christianity or folk religions. The Christian community is small but by no means insignificant.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 18, 2011

MYANMAR/BURMA - The Presbyterian Church of Myanmar has always been engaged in mission, evangelism, education, orphan care, and health ministries. Engagement in mission is seen as the work of the people, and many members of the church are deeply involved in reaching out with the gospel and serving the needs of other people.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 17, 2011

INDONESIA - I ndonesia, the world's third largest democracy, held another peaceful democratic election in 2009. President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono was elected directly for a second term that will end in 2014.

Christianity came to the so-called Spice Islands about 500 years ago, and there are currently 25 million Christians in Indonesia - equivalent to the whole population of Malaysia. In Indonesia the largest Muslim population in the world lives in a nation where tolerance and conflict among people of different religions, ethnic groups, languages, and cultures have a long history.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 16, 2011

LAOS - Leadership training is critical for the Lao Evangelical Church (LEC). In 2009, twenty-nine delegates attended an annual leadership training event.

CAMBODIA - The Khmer Presbyterian church has traditionally desired to grow wide by expanding into new areas and to grow deep by encouraging new members to become rooted in their Christian faith.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 15, 2011

MINUTE FOR MISSION: MULTICULTURAL CHURCH/IMMIGRATION - Early in my ministry I was called to a part-time role at a unique church. Only in retrospect can I appreciate just how unique the church really was. I started working there in 1971, a time when the United States was at the concluding edge of the civil rights movement that ended segregation. It was also a time when the effects of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 began to take hold, when in a five-year period immigration doubled with an unusually diverse mix of new immigrants.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 14, 2011

VIETNAM - Gracious God, may thy kingdom come and thy will be done in Vietnam. May the house church movement in general, and the UPCV in particular, continue to grow as it reaches out to those who have yet to hear your word. Amen.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 8, 2011

MINUTE FOR MISSION: PRESBYTERIAN FRONTIER FELLOWSHIP - The Rev. Harold Kurtz served as the first executive director of Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship, from 1981 to 2000, and remained active until not long before his death in 2009. A former director of the PC-USA's Worldwide Ministries once said to Harold, "There aren't many people of whom it can be said that they changed the direction of denominational mission. You are one of those people!" What did she mean?

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 7, 2011

OLDER ADULT WEEK: INDIA - The wedding of Mary Elizabeth and Yesudoss ("servant of Jesus'') shows how connections in Christ bring together people rejected by the world. One Sunday morning in Yesudoss’s village, guests arrived from Mary’s village south of Chennai. Rural weddings in India often join villages, but these two are special. The Catholic Church built Yesudoss’s village, where houses bear such brass plates as “with gratitude to Desmond, Dublin, Ireland.” Similarly, the houses in Mary’s village were built by the Church of South India in continuation of the leprosy mission of the Church of Scotland. Mary and Yesudoss were among the children unaffected by this disease—and its stigma. She grew up to earn a degree in clinical nutrition at CSI Ewart Women’s Christian College and work for the Red Cross.

CLICK HERE to read more.

In the News ... "China Aid supporters say ministry 'pivotal' in advocating for persecuted"

China Aid supporters say ministry 'pivotal' in advocating for persecuted

By Kathleen Thurber

Reporter

Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - As Midlanders gathered to support China Aid Association, four evangelists near Beijing were arrested and interrogated during a religious crackdown carried out in preparation for Easter.

Praying for those church leaders and acknowledging God's providence in placing them in a police station hungry for the word of God is what Bob Fu, president and founder of China Aid Association, said he wants Midlanders to keep in mind.

Because it's through the support of those in West Texas that he and others who spoke at the organization's annual fundraiser Thursday said the persecuted in China are able to have their history recorded and their plights known.

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Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 6, 2011

OLDER ADULT WEEK: MAY FRIENDSHIP DAY - Fourteen-year-old Naseema was studying in a school run by the Presbyterian Education Board (PEB) in Martinpur. She was a brilliant student and always ranked first in her class. Her father, Nasim, worked as a gardener. It was a daily struggle to stretch his earnings to adequately support his family of seven daughters and three sons, his elderly parents, and his disabled wife. Eventually he had to withdraw all his children from the school because he was unable to pay for their education. Then Naseema became seriously ill and was hospitalized. The school principal and staff came to her assistance. When she recovered, she returned to school, graduated, and joined a government hospital where she studied nursing. Today she is a graduate nurse, supporting her family and educating her younger brothers and sisters.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 5, 2011

OLDER ADULT WEEK: NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER - National Day of Prayer. It has been labeled, legislated, and litigated. It is a curious concept to me. Are we supposed to pray more intently or sincerely than on other days? Are all other days not days of prayer? Are nonbelievers excluded from celebrating this national day of recognition? Don't we pray for veterans on Veterans Day and offer prayers of thanks on Thanksgiving Day? By instituting it, we automatically exclude people, a concept that is surely offensive to God, and perhaps believers. In the words of Groucho Marx, "I don't care to belong to any club that will have me as a member."

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In the News ... "Churchchurches form partnerships with Midland ISD campuses"

By Megan Lea Buck

Reporter

Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS -
Santa Rita Elementary counselor Patrice Compton had been trying to find a group to mentor students for two years when Christ Church members Vicky Burton and Joyce Petrich called to ask if the school would like to particpate in the church's community garden. When the women asked about the school's greatest need, Compton told them the students needed mentors.

Since that conversation in October, Christ Church has begun a partnership with the school. Santa Rita fifth-graders have plots in the church's garden and nearly 20 church members are mentoring students. Other church members have treated teachers to homemade meals and treats.

"They have absolutely taken us on as a full-fledged partner," Compton said of the church. "They are finding new ways to help us all the time."

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 4, 2011

OLDER ADULT WEEK: PAKISTAN - Forman Christian College student Mian Shabaz Mehmood distributes candy to eager refugee children in an IDP camp in the Swat Valley.

In anticipation of a military offensive against the Taliban in northwest Pakistan, some 3.5 million people fled their homes. A group of students from Forman Christian College, a PC(USA) university in Lahore with 4,400 Muslim and Christian students, raised over $12,000 and purchased goods needed by the internally displaced persons (IDP) in the Swat Valley.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 3, 2011

OLDER ADULT WEEK: ASIA & THE PACIFIC, PT. 2 - In those countries with growing economies, our partners are asking if church-related schools and hospitals can maintain high standards and effectively compete with government and for-profit institutions. This issue is about much more than competition or survival. Church-based schools and institutions have historically been venues to both share and nurture faith, and also have been crucial places for Christians to live out their faith through serving others.

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Midland Group Reports Two Christians Released in Shaanxi, One Remains in Detention in Sichuan

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 Two Christians Released in Shaanxi, One Remains in Detention in Sichuan

Released by ChinaAid, April, 2011 ...

"SHAANXI, CHINA – Two house church Christians who were taken into custody when police raided their Sunday worship service in a village in central China’s Shaanxi have been released after spending more than two weeks in police detention, ChinaAid has learned.

Meanwhile, in Sichuan province, a woman house church leader who was taken away by police on March 10 at 5 p.m. remains in a detention center. Liao Zhongxiu, a leader of the Qu county house church, is being held on suspicion of using a cult to undermine the nation’s laws and regulations."
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

Free Burma Rangers schedules season of Regional Meetings in the U.S.

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

Free Burma Rangers schedules season of Regional Meetings in the U.S.

"Dear Friends, Free Burma Rangers are planning meetings this summer to include prayer, worship, updates on the situation in Burma and collaboration on action plans for how to take action for the people of Burma. Dave and Karen Eubank and family will be at these meetings along with others working with FBR."

Regional Meetings, 2011

MIDLAND, TEXAS @ First Presbyterian Church-Midland, Saturday, May 7, 2011

GIG HARBOR, WASHINGTON @ Chapel Hill Presbyterian Church, Sunday, May 15, 2011

BERKELEY, CALIFORNIA @ First Presbyterian Church-Berkeley, Saturday, May 21, 2011

MALIBU, CALIFORNIA @ Malibu Presbyterian Church, Saturday, May 28, 2011

ST. GEORGE, UTAH @ Calvary Chapel St. George, Sunday, June 5, 2011

WIMBERLY, TEXAS @ Cypress Creek Church, Saturday, June 18, 2011

SILOAM SPRINGS, ARKANSAS (more information TBA), Saturday, June 25, 2011

NEWTON, MASSACHUSETTS @ Newton Presbyterian Church, Saturday, July 9, 2011

COLORADO (more information TBA), Saturday, July 23, 2011

ANCHORAGE, ALASKA @ Faith Christian Church, Saturday, Sept 10, 2011

"We welcome you to join us for the meeting in your area. For more information please contact; Amy Galetzka at amygaletzka@gmail.com Thank you and God Bless you,"

Free Burma Rangers

In the News ... "Area pastors amazed by generosity during hard and happy economic times"

Area pastors amazed by generosity during hard and happy economic times

By Sara Higgins

Reporter

Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Through booms and busts, Midland pastors said their congregations' finances and missions programs are faring well in oil country. Though congregations have tightened their budgets in recent years to survive economic recession, churches now are building and making outreach programs a priority.

"We cut back our budget fairly significantly in 2008," said the Rev. Steve Schorr of First Presbyterian Church. "This church has made a commitment to try and not cut back on missions. We've tried to make cut backs on internal things, but keep the mission budget the same and try to make sure we're increasing that when we can."

Thanks to the church's planning, it was able to make its budget in 2008, Schorr said, and no cuts have been made toward its larger mission trips to countries like Uganda. This year, the church will be sending its largest group ever to Tanzania. Locally, the church continues to partner with groups assisting transient individuals as well as Habitat for Humanity, Christmas in Action and the Breaking Bread soup kitchen.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 2, 2011

OLDER ADULT WEEK: ASIA & THE PACIFIC, PT. 1 - I pray you will glean from these stories on Asia and the Pacific a sense of how the church is alive and well in this vast region, and gain a sense of how the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) continues to work with its long-standing partners. In your glimpse of the diversity and richness of this area, I hope you discover a sense of the wonder and awe of God working in and through God's servants.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 1, 2011

MINUTE FOR MISSION: OLDER ADULTS - On Sunday, older adults fill most church worship services. They add much to the parish’s ministry. In honor of mature Presbyterians, the General Assembly Mission Council declared today Older Adult Sunday. What a fitting tribute!

Imagine what your parish might look like without an older adult presence. Would the laughter built upon decades of friendship and meaningful ministries be as loud? Would the fellowship of Christians who have gone through tough times together lead to as many hugs? Would volunteers be fewer? Would the Sunday offering suffer? Would worship attendance shrink? Older adults constitute a vital — often majority — segment of the church. They embrace the positive attitudes of Psalm 100:5 (NIV): “For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” They live God’s goodness and want to share it regularly.

CLICK HERE to read more.