"Believers everywhere desperately need a renewed vision of Christ and the unstoppable advance of His saving work in all the earth. Our view of God’s Kingdom is often too small and limited to what we have experienced. "Dispatches from the Front" highlights the marvelous extent, diversity, and unity of Christ’s Kingdom in our world. The journal format of each episode underscores the daily unfolding of God’s activity on the “frontlines,” bringing viewers up-close with sights and sounds from distant corners of the Kingdom."
CLICK HERE to order your copies of "Dispatches from the Front"
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 ...Street Smart ...This summer season is so fun. I have been hosting two wonderful volunteers at LCH and we have been women on the move doing everything from painting half a building blue to hut-to-hut evangelism. So, I have not had much time to sit down and blog. But I do have a guest blog for you from one of my friends, Valerie Snyder, who recently moved to Mbale to work with another mission group. Hope you enjoy.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of Natalie's postIf 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
By Meagan Lea
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram
ODESSA-MIDLAND, TEXAS - Lisa Taylor decided to go on a mission trip with Our Savior Lutheran Church's youth group when a friend told her there was an open spot. After a week working and playing in Copperhill, Tennessee, the 16-year-old Greenwood High School student decided to join the church. She hopes the youth group will offer the trip - or a similar opportunity - again next summer.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story
By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American
ODESSA-MIDLAND, TEXAS - The constant beating of the sun’s rays and accompanying triple-digit temperatures are enough to slow down anyone’s day spent outside. But for the concert-goers at Rock the Desert, the heat could mean more than just a bad day. Each year, around three to four people who attend the Christian music festival need to be treated for heat exhaustion, dehydration or other heat-related illnesses, RTD campgrounds supervisor Joe Willis said.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story
"Believers everywhere desperately need a renewed vision of Christ and the unstoppable advance of His saving work in all the earth. Our view of God’s Kingdom is often too small and limited to what we have experienced. "Dispatches from the Front" highlights the marvelous extent, diversity, and unity of Christ’s Kingdom in our world. The journal format of each episode underscores the daily unfolding of God’s activity on the “frontlines,” bringing viewers up-close with sights and sounds from distant corners of the Kingdom."
CLICK HERE to order your copies of "Dispatches from the Front"
Staff Report
KWES-TV
ODESSA/BIG SPRING, TEXAS - Help is on the way for the homeless in West Texas.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the KWES report
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: July 24, 2011
MINUTE FOR MISSION: METROPOLITAN/URBAN MINISTRY - An African American high school honor student was violently assaulted by three white policemen working undercover in a primarily African American neighborhood considered a haven for illegal drug activity and a nexus for homicides. While appropriate law enforcement is necessary for safety and peace in all neighborhoods, this incident was an overzealous reaction to stereotypical racial profiling resulting in police brutality. The young man was on his way to his grandmother's house and supposedly had a bottle of soda under his coat, which the policeman allegedly mistook for a weapon.
CLICK HERE to read more.
Staff Report
KMID-TV
ODESSA, TEXAS - An Odessa church is finally picking up the pieces after a fire ripped through the property five years ago. The Highway Temple Assembly of God out in West Odessa will never forget the car explosion that ignited the fire that destroyed their beloved church.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the KMID report
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: July 23, 2011
CENTRAL ASIA - During the last two decades, Christianity has made significant progress in the region. Yet fragile intercommunal and governmental relationships exist in particular locations. For this reason, we do not talk about the details of activities in this region. We do this to protect the well-being of national Christians and the safety of mission workers. What we do want to say is that good works are being performed, the gospel is being proclaimed, and churches are growing.
CLICK HERE to read more.
Staff Report
KMID-TV
ODESSA, TEXAS - A West Texas church celebrated along with hundreds of Odessans for it's 75th birthday this weekend. The First United Pentecostal Church of Odessa was filled with hundreds of former and current members who came together to take a look back at 75 years. They say the secret to their longevity is their tight knit congregation.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the KMID report
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: July 22, 2011
LITHUANIA/BELARUS - Every January, the congregations of Klaipeda have an ecumenical service. In 2010, Protestants and Roman Catholics held the service at a Catholic church. Among the pastors was Pastor Moras! In 1991, he had conducted the first worship service I attended in Lithuania — the first public Easter celebration in over forty years. At this year's gathering he preached, and at one point our eyes met, and he nodded and smiled.
CLICK HERE to read more.
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.July Letter ...Dear family and friends,
Only in heaven will we fully know the impact that Christ has had through our
lives. The African proverb above expresses the spirit of the Closing the Gap:
Partnering for Strategic Church Planting Consultation. Karl had the privilege of
participating in this strategic event from May 1-6 at the Glen Eyrie Conference
Center in Colorado Springs. Over 120 influential leaders from around the
world gathered together to share best practices and develop collaborative
approaches to reach some of the toughest parts of the world. These included
church planting mobilizers, mission strategists, and organizational leaders.
The participants represented over 80 international organizations and networks. Nearly half were from Africa, Latin America, and Asia. The shared goal was to see the exponential multiplication of churches in places where few if any churches exist. For this to happen on a wide scale, deep change and great cooperation were recognized and embraced by each organization and leader.
Karl participated in the church planting training working group. He was able to share about what God is doing through the Church Planting Alliance (CPA) to ignite disciple-making movements in Madagascar, Namibia, and other nations of Southern Africa. He learned new church planting strategies and developed several new partnering relationships well. One of the highlights was sitting in on the North Africa/Middle East working group to discuss possible ways that church planters from Southern Africa can be better mobilized as missionaries into this dynamic part of the world. What a thrill to see new initiatives birthed to reach the remaining unengaged, unreached peoples of Africa and the world!
Karl continues to serve as the South/East Africa coordinator for the Global Church Planting Network (GCPN). The focus is networking and encouraging leaders in each nation to strengthen church planting movements in their region. He is also serving with the Movements for Africa National Initiatives (MANI) leaders in preparing the continental conference from September 5-9 in Abuja, Nigeria. The goal of this event is to assist African leaders to effectively reach the remaining unreached people groups in Africa. Please pray for Karl as he assists others to multiply disciple-making movements that all may know and worship the King!
Thank you for your faithful partnership 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.
By Audrie Palmer
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram
MIDLAND, TEXAS - The children and families make the items out of what they have. They use coconuts and cow bones to create dangly bracelets and earrings and necklaces. They take paper from magazines and roll it into beads, shellac them with a clear varnish to give a polished look and then string them together. They carve spoons and forks out of teakwood and fasten decorations on sandals.
On Saturdays, Sarah Mugoya, who started Africa Bridges of Hope in 2006, brings the items to the Downtown Farmers Market and displays the goods on tables. All proceeds from the sales go to help the children in Uganda whom Mugoya has fallen in love with.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story
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: July 21, 2011
RUSSIA, Pt. 2 - Ange has benefited tremendously from the services that Moscow Protestant Chaplaincy (MPC) provides. A refugee from the Congo, her first husband was shot in front of her while they tried to flee the violence in her home country. After she remarried and had two children, violence claimed one of her children and her second husband. As she was fleeing with her daughter, they were separated.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - In a crisp resounding boom, drums roll and trumpets blare as the 150-strong choir of First Baptist Church of Odessa resolutely sings the verses from Psalm 96.
The CD, “Declare His Glory,” is First Baptist’s second collaboration with Tennessee-based music production company, Prism Music. Though the CD, along with a songbook, will be released in October.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story
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: July 20, 2011
RUSSIA - When I ponder "grow Christ's church deep and wide," the face of Archpriest Boris Balashov appears before me. Father Boris of the Russian Orthodox Church in Klin, Russia, has dedicated his life and ministry to growing Christ's church in his city and region.
CLICK HERE to read more.
Every month, Lulwanda Administrator Edward Mukiibi provides an update on Lulwanda Children's Home in Uganda – how the children are growing and learning, how the staff is developing, and any ongoing needs that may arise.
June, 2011
We are half way through our seventh year of operation. It is amazing to see how years fly by. Once again on behalf of the children and staff, I wish to express our gratitude for your continued support particularly at this time when things have become very expensive in Uganda. It has been a great blessing for us at the children’s home to see your love, care and support as we together serve the children God has entrusted in our hands."
"The month in review has been busy with a number of activities planned, executed and successfully accomplished. Here below is what we have done."
CLICK HERE to read the rest of Mukiibi's June, 2011 report.
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 and Acceptance" (continued)
"You become a person only when you are capable of standing open to all the gifts which are prepared for you.
Giving can easily become a means of manipulation, where the one who receives a gift becomes dependent on the will of the one who gives it.
When you give, you are the master of the situation and you can dole out the goods to those whom you think are deserving. You have control over your milieu and you can enjoy the power your possessions give you.
Acceptance is something else. When we accept a gift, we invite others into our world and are ready to give them a place in our own lives. If we give gifts to our friends, we expect them to give them a place in their home. Ultimately, gifts become gifts only when they are accepted. When gifts are accepted, they acquire a place in the life of the receiver. It is understandable that many people want to give a gift in return as soon as possible, thereby reestablishing the balance and getting rid of any dependent relationship. We often see more trading than accepting. Many of us are even embarrassed with a present because we do not know how to reciprocate. 'It makes me feel obligated,' we often say.
Perhaps the challenge o f the gospel lies precisely in the invitation to accept a gift for which we can give nothing in return. For the gift is the life-breath of God, the Spirit poured out on us through Jesus Christ. This life-breath frees us from fear and gives us new room to live. Those who live prayerfully are constantly ready to receive the breath of God and to let their lives be renewed and expanded. Those who never pray, on the contrary, are like children with asthma: because they are short of breath, the whole world shrivels up before them. They creep into a corner gasping for air and are virtually in agony. But those who do pray open themselves to God and can breathe freely again. They stand upright, stretch out their hands, and come out of their corner, free to move about without fear."
With Open Hands, by Henri J.M. Nouwenn
A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children
Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,
Thank you for opening your hearts and hands in prayer for the children of our local and global communities. God bless you for your faithfulness in prayer! If you have celebrations or concerns about children, those who care for them, those who have authority over them, or perhaps for those who harm them, please contact me at the email address below. Thank you again.
Please join us for prayer on Wednesday, July 20, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride's room at First Presbyterian Church-Midland. 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.
With grateful thanks for God's unceasing love,
Chris
By Shannon Murray
Reporter
KOSA-TV
ODESSA, TEXAS - After a devastating loss and five years of struggling a West Texas church is finally rebuilding. An Odessa church almost closed the doors after a fire destroyed more than half of their property. In July of 2006 a car explosion set the Highway Temple Assembly of God church on fire, taking their fellowship hall and the pastor's home.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the KOSA report
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: July 19, 2011
SWITZERLAND - Most would agree that Switzerland, and specifically Geneva, was the birthplace of the worldwide Presbyterian and Reformed movement. Here John Calvin's "Presbyterian revolution" outlined the contours of the Reformed faith and the structure of Presbyterian polity that shapes the life and ministry of more than 80 million Reformed people worldwide. In 2009, the Reformed Churches in Switzerland hosted the world in celebrating the roots of their — and our — faith.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Meagan Lea
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram
ODESSA-MIDLAND, TEXAS - The dry heat of West Texas won't be enough to keep the crowds away at this year's Rock the Desert festival, as planners say they are preparing to receive about 20,000 concertgoers.
The Christian music festival, which will take place August 4-6, started 11 years ago as an afternoon concert in a church parking lot. It since has evolved into a three-day festival that attracts thousands of people from all around the U.S.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story
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: July 18, 2011
CZECH REPUBLIC - For nine years Filip and Constance Simonovsky have served two small congregations in Rumburk and Varnsdorf. Filip is a Czech theologian, and Constance is from Germany. Perhaps their respective backgrounds called them to ministry in the Czech-German border region.
CLICK HERE to read more.
"Believers everywhere desperately need a renewed vision of Christ and the unstoppable advance of His saving work in all the earth. Our view of God’s Kingdom is often too small and limited to what we have experienced. "Dispatches from the Front" highlights the marvelous extent, diversity, and unity of Christ’s Kingdom in our world. The journal format of each episode underscores the daily unfolding of God’s activity on the “frontlines,” bringing viewers up-close with sights and sounds from distant corners of the Kingdom."
CLICK HERE to order your copies of "Dispatches from the Front"
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: July 17, 2011
MINUTE FOR MISSION: SMALLER MEMBERSHIP CHURCH - "The Branch of the Lord will be beautiful and glorious. . . . It will be a shelter and shade from the heat of the day, and a refuge and hiding place from the storm and rain."
(Isaiah 4:2, 6, NIV )
On April 12, 1908, Mrs. George Shumake gathered neighborhood kids under an old fir tree to teach them Bible stories. Their voices rose to catch the ear of a Presbyterian minister who would go on to help Mrs. Shumake found Manitou Park Presbyterian Church in Tacoma. I thought about Mrs. Shumake as I stood beneath the branches of a different fir tree a hundred years later.
CLICK HERE to read more.
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: July 16, 2011
POLAND - A city sculpture shows Poles emerging in Wroclaw after a long time underground. In Poland, old fears and the tyranny of respectability can bind hands too tightly to reach out in love.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Shelley Childers ReporterKOSA-TVMONAHANS, TEXAS - A program in Monahans that relies on volunteer services to help feed the elder and disabled is in need of volunteers this month. Greater Works delivers meal boxes with enough food to last for a week. The boxes are strategically delivered at the end of each month when most people are between assistance funds.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the KOSA report
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: July 15, 2011
GERMANY - Kurdish friends meet at a home in Berlin. The following report is from a PC(USA) mission partner.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Meagan Lea ReporterMidland Reporter-TelegramMIDLAND, TEXAS - Photos and newspaper clippings decorate the walls of Angelo McCoy's office at First Presbyterian Church. Out of all the words in several articles written about him, three stand out to McCoy. An Andrews County News article features the headline: "Humble, Hungry, Grateful."
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story
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: July 14, 2011
UNITED KINGDOM - Global scholars discuss development at the OCMS.
CLICK HERE to read more.
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.June Letter ...Dear family and friends,
Unlike your usual missionary letter, this letter is coming from a supporter of your missionary. Like you, we at OC’s headquarters (U.S. Mobilization Center) are part of your missionary’s support team. And like you, we do what we can to keep your missionary effectively serving in the country to which God has called them. Part of that service includes the processing of their monthly letters. Doing this saves our missionaries hours of labor each month, freeing them to carry out effective ministry on the field. In addition, it saves each missionary printing and postage expenses.
Over the past several months we have been transitioning to new database software. This “software storm” has heavily impacted our finance and communications departments. For prayer letters it means ensuring that the 40,000 letters we send out monthly go to the right people with the right addresses. We have tested the system, and this month we are going “live” with a single common letter—this prayer letter. We would request that you continue to pray for your missionary, for their physical and spiritual health, for open doors for the gospel, and for clear direction from the Lord.
Please also pray for us at the U.S. Mobilization Center, where we perform supporting tasks like prayer letters, member care, finance, training, recruiting, and much more. Like you, we are the ones behind the scenes, and we are glad to serve the Kingdom work in this way.
We are also here to serve you. If you have a minute to give us some feedback, we would be very grateful. You may go online to surveymonkey.com and do a short survey electronically. We want to hear your heart. Thank you for listening to ours.
Yours for the Kingdom,
Greg Gripentrog
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.
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 7/13/11
CHILD LABOR - Pray for the estimated 215 million children around the world who work, often full time. Pray for children who labor in jobs that jeopardize their physical, mental, or moral well-being. Pray for those who are denied an education, proper nutrition, and care.
A report from the International Labour Organization
• Pray for those who work in hazardous conditions: those who are sold or trafficked, held in debt bondage, serfdom, or forced labor; those who are forced or recruited into armed conflict; those who are prostituted, made to produce pornography, or used in pornographic performances.
• Pray for children who are exposed to physical, psychological, or sexual abuse in the work they perform.
• Pray for those who work underground, under water, at dangerous heights, in confined spaces, with dangerous machinery, equipment and tools, or lift or transport heavy loads.
• Pray for those who work in unhealthy environments that expose them to hazardous substances, agents, or processes, or to temperatures, noise levels, or vibrations damaging to their health.
• Pray for children who work long hours, work night shifts, or are unreasonably confined to the employer's premises.
• Pray for the elimination of the worst forms of child labor.
Another report from the International Labour Organization
MEXICO - Please pray for the children and people of Mexico who are affected by the escalating drug cartel violence.
• Pray for children who witness this violence and live in fear every day. Pray for those who have had parents or relatives disappear-bus loads of passengers have been kidnapped by drug cartel traffickers and allegedly forced into gladiator-like fights to groom fresh assassins.
A report from the Huston Chronicle
• Pray for an end to the insatiable demand for drugs and that the drug wars plaguing Mexico will cease.
NIGERIA - Please keep in prayer the 32 teenage girls who were rescued from a "baby factory" where they were allegedly forced to have babies that were then offered for sale for trafficking, black magic rituals, or illegal adoption. Pray that God will bring healing and peace to these 15- to 17-year-old young women. Pray for the babies who have been sold. Thanks be to God the owner of this "baby factory" was arrested and faces charges of child abuse and human trafficking. Pray for justice for these girls and babies.
A report from Yahoo News
• Pray for the estimated 15 million child laborers in Nigeria. Pray for those working in very dangerous jobs. Pray that God will free children from work that is hazardous or demeaning and robs them of the chance to be children.
A report from AlertNet
RUSSIA - Pray that God will comfort and bring peace to Darya following the death of her 8-month-old son Maxim last November. Give thanks to God for Darya's passionate work in challenging the incompetence and heartlessness she encountered in the Russian healthcare system. A Russian government study suggests that health care is the most corrupt field in Russia and public spending on health care is very low.
• Thanks be to God that Darya has been able to raise enough money to reopen a children's clinic in her community, complete with an emergency room. The clinic had been converted into a for-profit adult treatment center and wasn't available when Maxim was in medical crisis. And thank God for the formation of a grass-roots nonprofit organization, Health Care for Children, that has been launched to help the children of Russia secure proper medical care.
A report from the Washington Post
UGANDA - Please keep Pastor Peter and the staff with DEYWA in prayer as they minister to the physical and spiritual needs of 100 orphaned children. Pray that God will provide the resources needed to make this ministry self-sustaining. Please pray that God will comfort and bring peace and healing to the leaders of this ministry as they mourn the recent death of one of these children. Pray for encouragement in the face of these challenges.
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.
• If you have prayer 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 Chris Laufer, FOC Coordinator, at claufer@facesofchildren.net
By Lyxan Toledanes ReporterOdessa AmericanODESSA, TEXAS - At the Catholic Churches of South Odessa parishes, it’s out with the old and in with the new – priests, that is. The Revs. Serafin Avenido and Patrick Okpanobong are serving at the St. Joseph and St. Anthony parishes and the St. Martin de Porres mission.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story
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: July 13, 2011
IRELAND - Roma families who fled their Belfast homes after racist attacks receive help from churches.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Sara Higgins ReporterMidland Reporter-TelegramSAN ANGELO, TEXAS - A conference on evil and the unknown compelled hundreds to gather at a weekday presentation offered by the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo. About 700 individuals from all over West Texas traveled to San Angelo Monday for a seminar on exorcism and diabolical influence.
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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: July 12, 2011
PORTUGAL - Rev. Bob and Keiko Butterfield arrived in Portugal as new PC(USA) mission co-workers in 2010. They brought with them community organizing and church growth ministry experience in Brazil and the United States. They are serving in Abrantes, a city of 41,000 people, and working with the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Portugal (IEPP), a PC(USA) partner, in evangelism and community development.
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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 and Acceptance" (continued)
"The wisdom of the world is the wisdom that says:
'It is best to stand firm, to get a good grip on what's yours here and now, and to hold your own against the rest who want to take it away from you; you've got to be on your guard against ambush. If you don't carry a weapon, if you don't make a fist, and if you don't scramble to get what you need-food and shelter-then you're just asking to be threadbare and destitute, and you'll end up trying to find a mediocre satisfaction in a generosity which no one appreciates. You open your hands and they pound in nails! Smart people keep on their toes, with muscles tense and fists clenched; they squint and are always ready for an unexpected attack.'
That's how a person's inner life often appears. If you nurture thoughts of peace, you have to be open and receiving. But can you do it, do you dare? Suspicion, jealousy, hate, revenge, resentment, and greed are there before you've even given them names.
'What are they really trying to do?' 'What's actually on their minds?' 'They must not be laying all their cards on the table.' 'There's certainly more to that remark than meets the eye.'
Often such feelings arise even before thoughts can be formulated. Something deep inside you has already tightened up:
'Watch out, plan your tactics, and hold your weapons in readiness.'
And so thoughts of peace remain far away. You fear they are too dangerous or impractical. You think:
'Those who don't arm themselves share the guilt for their own fall.'
How can you expect a gift in such a mood? Can you even imagine that your life could be any other way? No wonder praying presents such a problem, for it requires a constant readiness to lay down your weapons and let go of feelings which tell you to keep a safe distance. It requires you to live in the constant expectation that God, who makes everything new, will cause you to be born again."
With Open Hands, by Henri J.M. Nouwenn
A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children
Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,
This reflection is a continuation of last week's devotion from the chapter "Prayer and Acceptance" from Henri Nouwen's book With Open Hands. I will be sharing portions of the rest of this chapter with you for several more weeks and hope they will bless you as they have me.
This particular passage challenges me to let go of the instinctive, intuitive thoughts that immediately surface when I'm feeling threatened, insecure, vulnerable, or angry. It challenges me to dismantle the wall I've constructed around myself to protect me from what I perceive is harmful. Nouwen's words urge me to do the counter-intuitive-to think and act in ways that are contrary to what my primal first response would be. His words encourage me to nurture those thoughts of peace; to lay my weapons down; to disregard the safe distance; and most of all, to open my hands and my heart with joyous anticipation of the gift God promises ...
"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, God's mercies never come to an end;they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22-23 (English Standard Version)
The Midland Faces of Children prayer group will meet on Wednesday, July 13, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride's room at First Presbyterian Church-Midland to pray for children. 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.
With grateful thanks for God's unceasing love,
Chris
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: July 11, 2011
EUROPE (Continued) - During my visit to Lodz, in one of the Evangelical Reformed Church in Poland congregations with which Doug and Liz Searles serve, I witnessed firsthand how Liz's infectious smile and sense of God's purpose draw people in. In all three of those congregations, music from a variety of traditions is bringing people to church. With renewed enthusiasm, they are spreading the good news of Jesus Christ.
CLICK HERE to read more.
"Believers everywhere desperately need a renewed vision of Christ and the unstoppable advance of His saving work in all the earth. Our view of God’s Kingdom is often too small and limited to what we have experienced. "Dispatches from the Front" highlights the marvelous extent, diversity, and unity of Christ’s Kingdom in our world. The journal format of each episode underscores the daily unfolding of God’s activity on the “frontlines,” bringing viewers up-close with sights and sounds from distant corners of the Kingdom."
CLICK HERE to order your copies of "Dispatches from the Front"
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: July 10, 2011
MINUTE FOR MISSION: PRINCETON THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY - When the earthquake struck his native Haiti in 2010, Emmanuel Bourjolly was ministering at the Albert C. Wagner Youth Correctional Facility in New Jersey. As the prison chaplain, he gathered the inmates to pray for those in his homeland who had lost family, homes, and friends - not unlike the inmates themselves.
CLICK HERE to read more.
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: July 9, 2011EUROPE - What do Lodz, Poland, Verona, Italy, and Gat, Ukraine, have in common? Why, music, of course! Each has music from the most heavenly of choirs - our Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) partner congregations.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Sara Higgins ReporterMidland Reporter-TelegramMIDLAND, TEXAS - Gutenberg Bibles reside in libraries, museums and universities around the globe as symbols of how technology can revolutionize religion. Thanks to the invention of the movable type printing press in the 15th century, technology paved the road for wide circulation of the Bible. But as new technology reaches consumers at an ever-quickening pace, churches are left to grapple with how, or if, they should implement changes in worship and outreach programs.
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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: July 8, 2011PRESBYTERY OF SOUTHERN KANSAS - Westminster Woods Camp and Retreat Center, near Fall River in southeast Kansas, was established in 1964. During the last few years the number of campers in its summer program has grown. Two new cabins were built in 2008. Then the need arose for a bigger chapel. Through the efforts of many individuals and congregations and in memory of Kelly Cox, a popular, young camp counselor who died in a car accident, $460,000 was raised to build a new chapel that opened during the 2010 camping season. The new chapel seats 200 and provides an inspirational place where God meets students and adults.
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By Sara Higgins ReporterMidland Reporter-TelegramMIDLAND, TEXAS - As Christians observed Pentecost Sunday, First Baptist Church's congregants gathered with the added intention to celebrate the groundbreaking of a $13.9 million building project.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story
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: July 7, 2011PRESBYTERY OF NORTHERN KANSAS - The Council of the Presbytery of Northern Kansas entered new territory in 2010 when members began each meeting praying in small groups.
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By Meagan Lee Buck ReporterMidland Reporter-TelegramMIDLAND, TEXAS -
Staff at Rock Fellowship Church are committed to transforming the lives of Midlanders. Though the church's air conditioner is broken and parts of the building are in disrepair, pastor Randall Manning and his wife, Angela, are focused on creating an atmosphere of healing for any person who walks through the door.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story
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: July 6, 2011MISSOURI UNUION PRESBYTERY - The congregations of Missouri Union Presbytery (MUP) live out their connected ministry to grow Christ's church deep and wide through eleven Ministry Mission Teams (MMT). Since 2009 the newest MMT supports Agape Fellowship, in Columbia, Missouri, a New Immigrant Fellowship of African refugees from Burundi, Rwanda, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Together with General Assembly, and direct involvement from six member congregations, Missouri Union Presbyterians pray for and provide financial support to Agape Fellowship.
CLICK HERE to read more.
"Believers everywhere desperately need a renewed vision of Christ and the unstoppable advance of His saving work in all the earth. Our view of God’s Kingdom is often too small and limited to what we have experienced. "Dispatches from the Front" highlights the marvelous extent, diversity, and unity of Christ’s Kingdom in our world. The journal format of each episode underscores the daily unfolding of God’s activity on the “frontlines,” bringing viewers up-close with sights and sounds from distant corners of the Kingdom."
