Wednesday, February 29, 2012

In the News ... "Exhibit explores parable of prodigal son"

The Return of the Prodigal Son
by Robert Barnum
By Sara Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - An art collection exploring grace and forgiveness is on display at a local church throughout the Lenten season.

First Presbyterian Church of Midland is inviting the public to visit its gallery during its latest exhibit, "The Father and His Two Sons: The Art of Forgiveness." The collection of images, which opened Wednesday and will continue through April 8, features works by various artists depicting the parable of the Prodigal Son from the Gospel of Luke. In the story, the younger of two sons wastes the inheritance given to him, but after repenting and returning home is welcomed with open arms by his father.

"It's our belief that all the various senses help us connect better with our relationship with Christ," said the Rev. Mary Beth Anton, parish associate at First Presbyterian.

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 29, 2012

LEHIGH PRESBYTERY, PENNSYLVANIA - First Presbyterian Church of Bethlehem seeks to know God, love people, and serve the world. Of course, to know God requires conversation. To help people experience a diverse way of conversing with God, the church's gym was transformed into a prayer space called "Prayer Is ..." For over a week, people came in droves to pray in new ways. These prayer journeyers, equally split between congregants and the community, experienced such forms of prayer as a prayer wall, a labyrinth, art, and Scripture. The groundswell of prayer led them to establish a sacred space each month that focused on one of the 12 forms of prayer explored at this event.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

In the News ... "Warren shares MISD plan for suicide outcries"

By Meredith Moriak
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - During an open prayer service Saturday night at Cornerstone Christian Fellowship, Midland ISD Superintendent Ryder Warren discussed what the district is doing about recent student suicides.

"Right now, we are in crisis mode," Warren said. "You don't typically use that word when you have over 22,000 students and 3,000 employees, but that's where we are right now. We're just trying to prevent number five."

Warren spoke during "The Answer: Help for the Hurting Prayer Service" organized by Cornerstone. Though the event was open to the public and fliers were passed out in MISD schools, less than 45 people attended the event and few were teenagers.

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 28, 2012

PRESBYTERY OF LAKE ERIE, PENNSYLVANIA - In February 2010, nine adults - male and female, clergy and lay - met at the Pittsburgh airport to journey to Ghana on the western coast of Africa. Their goal: to create a mutual mission partnership with the Presbyterian Church bodies of Ghana in the northern regions where very few mission partnerships exist.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Monday, February 27, 2012

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).

Love of God Means Love of Others

“Then the king will say to those at his right hand, 'Come, you that are blessed by God, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food ..." Matthew 25:34-35

"What does it mean to live in the world with a truly compassionate heart, a heart that remains open to all people at all times? It is very important to realize that compassion is more than sympathy or empathy. When we are asked to listen to the pains of people and empathize with their suffering, we soon reach our emotional limits. We can listen only for a short time and only to a few people. In our society we are bombarded with so much 'news' about human misery that our hearts easily get numbed simply because of overload.

But God's compassionate heart does not have limits. God's heart is greater, infinitely greater, than the human heart. It is that divine heart that God wants to give us so that we can love all people without burning out or becoming numb.

It is for this compassionate heart that we pray when we say 'Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me.' (Psalm 51:10-11)

The Holy Spirit of God is given to us so that we can become participants in God's compassion and so reach out to all people at all times with God's heart."

Lord, when I fail to love others, as I often do, help me realize that it is because I've first failed to love you, the source of all love. This Lent help me to reach out to someone who is poor-in body or spirit-someone whose love for you may be fading.


Renewed for Life, Daily Lenten Meditations from the works of Henri J.M. Nouwen, edited by Mark Neilsen

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,

This Lenten devotion may be one with which you are familiar as I believe I've sent it out before. Its message bears repeating because the work we do in prayer for children can be downright exhausting. Reading and hearing about the suffering of the children in our communities, local and global, can leave us feeling overwhelmed and emotionally numb.

Nouwen's insight about the divine heart God desires to share with us, gives me great hope for those times in which I am weighed down by the suffering of children around the world. I give God thanks for this generous gift of the Holy Spirit, for God's heart of compassion as we reach out in prayer to "the least of these" in our world.

The Faces of Children prayer group will meet on Wednessday, February 29, 2012, at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride's room at First Presbyterian Church-Midland. Please join us this Lenten season as we prayer for children in our communities and in our world. Fellowship and lunch ($5) will follow.

If you have prayer concerns or celebrations 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.

Blessings,

Chris

In the News ... "Food Check-out week recognized with donation to Baptist Crisis Center"

By Kathleen Petty
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - The Baptist Crisis Center will have more food supplies to distribute in the coming weeks after receiving a gift Thursday from the Texas Farm Bureau and Super Mercado.

People from each entity met at Super Mercado Thursday to load boxes of cereal, dry milk and canned potatoes that were purchased with a $250 donation from the Texas Farm Bureau and a matching gift from Super Mercado of about $260.

The Baptist Crisis Center has a "reputation for distributing the food well," said Marcus Halfmann, with the Midland County Farm Bureau.

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 27, 2012

THE PRESBYTERY OF LACKAWANNA, PENNSYLVANIA - Nearly a decade ago, the congregation at First Presbyterian Church of Nanticoke needed help. The church had lost its pastor, and the century-old building had become too costly to maintain for the handful of members that still worshiped there. It was generally expected that the church would close. Yet that small group of Presbyterians had one last idea: to defy those expectations by going out into the community and giving help instead of asking for it.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Sunday, February 26, 2012

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 26, 2012

MINUTE FOR MISSION: THE OUTREACH FOUNDATION - During the past 30 years, the church in China has been on an incredible journey of growth and vitality. Christian believers have been sharing the good news so effectively that they have a problem - more people are becoming Christians than the church can disciple. Chinese church shepherds face the daunting challenge of nurturing these new believers so that they indeed bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Saturday, February 25, 2012

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 25, 2012

PRESBYTERY OF KISKIMINETAS, PENNSYLVANIA - "Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God" (Phil. 1:3, NLT). Those words come to mind as the people of the Presbytery of Kiskiminetas reflect on their partnership with their friends and fellow believers from the Presbyterian Church of Rwanda who live in the Gitarama Region. This is especially true as they celebrate the renewal of their partnership for another five years. During the first five years, school buildings and churches were built, children were sent to school, motorbikes were provided for pastors, and in 2011 the first of what they hope will be many water treatment plants was erected. But more important, many lessons were learned and relationships were built as they have shared during their visits back and forth with one another.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Friday, February 24, 2012

In the News ... "Bishop: Andrews church moving on after pastor's theft"

Staff Report
Reporter
Odessa American

ANDREWS, TEXAS - The Rev. Michael Pfeifer, bishop of the San Angelo Catholic Diocese, said an Andrews church is in the process of repairing itself following discrepancies found during a financial audit.

The diocese released a letter on Tuesday to the parishioners of Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Andrews, stating that the church is taking steps to rebuild itself.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA 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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 24, 2012

PRESBYTERY OF HUNTINGDON, PENNSYLVANIA - The 50 churches with 6,068 members of the Presbytery of Huntingdon are scattered throughout the hills of central Pennsylvania in a region that was once known for family farms, mining, railroads, small towns, and modest cities. The last few decades have seen many changes in these aspects of the region. Yet, the faith of its churches continues to bear fruit.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Thursday, February 23, 2012

In the News ... "A mission to help"

By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Life after college isn’t what it used to be. If graduates aren’t spending months pounding the pavement, they’re either lucky enough to have landed a job straight out of school or have the resolution to continue onto graduate school.

And then there are those who choose to become world travelers. At just 24, Nancy Wallace has traveled to 10 countries in nearly three years doing independent mission work.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA 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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 23, 2012

PRESBYTERY OF DONEGAL, PENNSYLVANIA - The Presbytery of Donegal, with its 57 churches and 19,335 members, has a long commitment to mission where local needs as well as those abroad have increasingly been supported. In the last two years, Presbyterian Women and the Peace, Justice, and Care of Creation Department have organized a Mission Fair featuring speakers and tabletop displays. People have learned that the seeds of mission take root in all kinds of soil.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

In the News ... "Diocese: Andrews priest took money from church"

By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American

WEST TEXAS - The bishop of the San Angelo Catholic Diocese has alerted parishioners in an Andrews church that a priest had been taking church funds for personal use.

In a letter written on Jan. 16 to the parishioners of the Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Andrews, the Rev. Michael Pfeifer said that the Rev. Joey Faylona was using “parish funds for personal improper expenditures.”

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA 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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 22, 2012

ASH MINUTE FOR MISSION - As a child, the first day of Lent left an early impression. It was evident from the adults who surrounded me that repentance was being evaluated. While I didn't fully understand the conversations, I did get the feeling that Lent was to be the time of remembering and looking ahead for ways to lead more full lives of service.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

In the News ... "Odessa Ministerial Alliance kicks off Lent"

Staff Report
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Work days often begin and end in a hectic manner. There’s the morning rush to get to work, the pause to eat something for lunch and the mad dash to see the day end..

But amid the chaos of the work day, pastors with the Odessa Ministerial Alliance hope to give Odessans a break while preparing them for the celebration of Easter.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA 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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 21, 2012

PRESBYTERY OF CARLISLE, PENNSYLVANIA - The Presbytery of Carlisle is a historic presbytery in central Pennsylvania. Its rich heritage has borne much fruit, and today the presbytery is strong and vital, with 14,001 members. In September 2010, the presbytery launched a bold and experimental ministry.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Monday, February 20, 2012

In the News ... "Switchfoot confirmed for Rock the Desert"

Staff Report
Odessa American

WEST TEXAS - Rock the Desert officials confirmed via Twitter Monday that Switchfoot will join Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow in an event April 22 at Grande Communications Stadium in Midland.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA 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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 20, 2012

PRESBYTERY OF BEAVER/BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA - The Presbytery of Beaver-Butler, with 84 churches and 12,475 members, is located in rural western Pennsylvania. Its Congregational Mission Unit is charged with encouraging and supporting churches and individuals to "go'' in Jesus' name. Going on a mission trip has helped many grow in faith and become closer to our Lord.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Sunday, February 19, 2012

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 19, 2012

MINUTE FOR MISSION: HEALTH AWARENESS AND PRAYER FOR HEALING - It is difficult for many individuals to think of bearing fruit in their own lives. The reality of life is that many of us are confronted by any number of challenges that may more easily lead to despair than to hope.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Saturday, February 18, 2012

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 18, 2012

SYNOD OF THE TRINITY, PENNSYLVANIA/OHIO/WEST VIRGINIA - The Synod of the Trinity has been focusing on purposeful communication and easy-to-use computer programs. Providing commissioners, synod committee members, and persons in presbytery offices with web cameras, the synod staff has been educating people in how to use them for virtual meetings, allowing participants to see and talk with one another without leaving their home or office. While some still use the phone to attend the meeting, the majority are booting up computers, attaching webcams, and gathering for conversations.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Friday, February 17, 2012

In the News ... "Tebow is planning to come to Midland"

Staff Report
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Tim Tebow has been confirmed to speak at an event scheduled for April 22, according to the official Twitter account for Rock the Desert.

Tebow, who is very public about his Christian faith, is the current starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos and a former Heisman Trophy winner.

Time and place for the event are yet to be announced. More information will be announced as it is made available.

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 17, 2012

PRESBYTERY OF TRES RIOS, TEXAS - In June 2010, a group of 26 people traveled from Midland, Texas, to Mbale Uganda, to partner with the Presbytery of Eastern Uganda and plant a new church. After a half-day of sharing the gospel hut-to-hut, each afternoon the team held an evangelistic crusade. In addition to planting a church, the team had the opportunity to share the gospel message in schools and prisons. For two days, the team held a free medical clinic in the village and was overwhelmed by the response of close to 3,000 families seeking medical help and free mosquito nets.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Thursday, February 16, 2012

In the News ... "Greater Ideal wants to change southeast Midland through education"

By Meredith Moriak
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Helping students who learn unconventionally, don't see college as an option and are at-risk for dropping out are the main goals for Ideal Preparatory Academy Charter School.

The school is a vision of Greater Ideal Baptist Church's minister, the Rev. George Bell, and is on path to become a reality. A team of 15 church members are putting the final touches on a 300-page application that will be submitted to the State Board of Education by February 23.

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 16, 2012

PRESBYTERY OF SOUTH LOUISIANA - The congregations of the Presbytery of South Louisiana are intensely aware of the importance of disappearing wetlands from both a geographic standpoint and a theological perspective. The members of First Presbyterian Church of Bayou Blue in Gray, Louisiana, offered an overture concerning the creation of a Wetlands Theological Education Center to the presbytery in late 2009. It was subsequently approved and sent for consideration to the 219th General Assembly (2010). This action took place before the Deepwater Horizon oil well eruption, which cast an international spotlight on the vulnerability of wetlands and their inhabitants to economic industrialization.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Faces of Children: Prayer Requests

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

Prayer Concerns for the week of 2/15/12

KENYA ( Naomi's Village ) - Please pray that God will surround the Naomi's Village children, staff, facilities, and campus with a hedge of protection from those who threaten to use witchcraft against them.

• Pray for the people who have made these threats ... that God will open their eyes and hearts to the truth of Jesus Christ's saving love and grace.
• Give thanks that the founders of this ministry and orphanage are not afraid...that they choose to fully trust in God's love and providence.
Naomi's Village website

SOMALIA - Pray for the girls and women of Somalia who are being preyed upon by Shabab Islamist militants, government soldiers, or other armed men during this time of conflict and chaos.
A report from the New York Times
Pray for girls and women who have been captured as spoils of war, gang raped, sexually abused, or forced into sexual slavery through temporary "arranged marriages." Pray for women and girls who are used as payment in order for groups of refugees to be able to pass through armed roadblocks.
Pray for girls who have suffered physical and psychological damage. Pray for women and girls who are rejected by their communities because they have been sexually assaulted and are considered at fault and now "spoiled."
Please keep these vulnerable females held close in prayer - thousands have been displaced by famine and war, only to end up in overcrowded, dangerous refugee camps and at risk for sexual assaults.
Please pray for an end to this gender-based violence. Pray for justice and healing for those affected by it.


SYRIA - Keep the children of Syria held close in prayer during this season of violence and political unrest. Pray for those who have been affected by the government crackdown on civilian protests. Of the 5,400 people killed in the uprising against the current regime, at least 384 have been children.
Pray for the families of those who have died in the violence. And pray for children who have been detained in jail by the government. Please pray for a peaceful end to this crisis.
A report from msnbc.com News Services

UNITED STATES - Please keep in prayer Robert*, his wife Diane*, and their 17-year-old daughter Jessica* and 13-year-old son Luke* as they experience significant family difficulties. Pray that God will bring healing and peace to this young family in crisis.
Also keep close in prayer another struggling family. Pray God will provide the resources and strength Natalie* and Roy* and their daughters, 15-year-old Amy* and 9-month-old Susannah* need to help them deal with a vindictive, vengeful family member. Pray that the peace that surpasses all understanding will guard their hearts during this stressful time.
Please pray that God's healing touch will be upon Embree, a little girl who has been diagnosed with leukemia. Pray for Embree's caregivers as they make decisions about her medical treatment and tend to her physical and emotional needs during this frightening time.
Pray for 8-year-old Camryn who is struggling with schoolwork and loneliness in her new elementary school. Pray her parents and teachers can work well together to identify and address the learning challenges with which Camryn seems to be struggling. Pray that Camryn will forge close, healthy friendships in this new environment. Please pray that God will bring comfort to this sweet, little girl who is feeling sad and defeated.
Give thanks to God for a new program in Midland, Texas that offers prenatal education and parenting classes to expectant women in the community. Pray for the organizers, staff, and volunteers with the Hope Chest project as they reach out to young mothers and provide them with the resources they may need to have a healthy pregnancy and deliver a healthy baby.

A report from the Midland Reporter-Telegram

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


* Name changed for confidentiality and/or protection.

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

In the News ... "Stonegate pastor takes leadership position in bond campaign"

By Meredith Moriak
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Diving right in and playing fastball is what Patrick Payton has been doing since moving to Midland in 1999 to plant a church that became Stonegate Fellowship.

Moving to the Permian Basin to fulfill his first call in ministry, Payton said he hit the ground running.

“It was me and about 200 people wanting to be part of a church,” said Payton, who previously worked as a food broker in Oklahoma. “I worked a lot those first years getting things going and wasn’t always sure exactly what to do, but we made it.”

The same effort Payton put into building Stonegate into the largest church in the Permian Basin — one with an average Sunday attendance of 5,000 — is what he’s willing to devote to Midland ISD’s improvement initiative.

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 15, 2012

PRESBYTERY OF THE PINES, LOUISIANA/ARKANSAS - In 2001, the Presbytery of the Pines adopted a resolution to use funds received from the sale of some church properties to provide resources to congregations committed to continuing and redeveloping their ministries. Since its creation, the Phoenix Fund has granted over $300,000 to 21 member churches, thus inspiring new vision and energy.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

In the News ... "Speaker to share heavenly experience at National Prayer Breakfast"

By Sara Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Organizers of this year's National Prayer Breakfast Midland hope attendees will be prayerfully moved through the Rev. Don Piper's story of death and life.

Piper, who wrote the New York Times Bestseller “90 Minutes in Heaven," will speak about the 90 minutes after he was declared dead by paramedics Jan. 18, 1989 on the side of Texas Highway 19. In his book, he writes about the moments he says he spent experiencing heaven. His story has reached millions since it was printed in 2004, and millions more have heard the story in the person.

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 14, 2012

PALO DURO PRESBYTERY, TEXAS - Good Samaritan Christian Services was formed in Pampa, Texas, in 1982 when a number of ministers from the town questioned how effective their individual churches were at assisting those in need within their community. One minister and at least one layperson from each of the 16 churches involved formed the first committee that put this ministry together. Good Sam's, as it is affectionately known, regularly provides food and clothing to those in need and offers occasional assistance with utility bills. Good Sam's unloads and distributes food from the area food bank and provides Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. Last Christmas, Good Sam's gave almost 200 children in need three presents each.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Monday, February 13, 2012

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).

1 Timothy 2:1-3

The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to.”

live

The Power of Prayer: Words to Speak and Pray from The Message, by Eugene H. Peterson

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,

The Midland Faces of Children prayer group will meet on Wednessday, February 15, 2012, at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride's room at First Presbyterian Church-Midland, to pray for the children of our local and global. Fellowship and lunch ($5) will follow. I hope you will be able to join us.

If you have prayer concerns or celebrations 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.

Thank you for your faithfulness in prayer for the children of our world.

Blessings,

Chris

In the News ... "Midlander organizes school prayer walks after suicides"

By Meredith Moriak
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - When teen suicides surfaced in Midland, the pain and grief felt by students hit way too close to home for 19-year-old Bethany Campbell.

Having lost her brother to suicide six years ago, Campbell knows how it feels to lose someone you love and never see it coming.

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 13, 2012

PRESBYTERY OF THE NEW COVENANT, TEXAS - Toward the end of a session meeting at St. James, a 28-member congregation in LaPorte, Texas, an elder said, "I suppose y'all are wonderin' why I'm dressed like this." He was wearing a leather vest complete with biker patches, leather pants, and boots. "I want to tell you why this church cannot close.'"The session had been praying, discussing, and discerning its future. "I need this church to support me in my ministry."
CLICK HERE to read more.

Sunday, February 12, 2012

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 12, 2012

MINUTE FOR MISSION: CAMP & CONFERENCE MINISTRIES - A group is surrounded by the beauty of God's creation while canoeing on the lake. After a wonderful meal, they walk the prayer labyrinth. Later that evening, the sounds of singing and the smell of s'mores fill the air as the light of the campfire reflects on the trees above and on the faces of the participants.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Saturday, February 11, 2012

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 11, 2012

MISSION PRESBYTERY OF TEXAS - The 151 churches and 6 new church developments with 30,184 members in Mission Presbytery have been examining the question, "What does a healthy congregation look like?" For the congregation of Forest Hills Presbyterian Church (FHPC) in Helotes, Texas, part of the answer is outwardly focused mission — "to be a sign in and for the world of the new reality which God has made available to people in Jesus Christ" (Book of Order, G-3.0200a). It is one part of their three-part mission.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Friday, February 10, 2012

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 10, 2012

INDIAN NATIONS PRESBYTERY OF OKLAHOMA - The Vine, a new outreach ministry of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Oklahoma City, meets in a neighborhood theater each Community is more than simply about being involved in a small group. It is about shared life. It's about people and families doing life together. It's about meeting each other's needs, carrying each other's burdens, celebrating each other's joys, and weeping over each other's hurts. At The Vine, they want to encourage a deep-seated love for all people, and a passionate desire to see individuals transformed by the redeeming love, grace, and mercy of Jesus Christ, working both locally and globally to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, respond to crisis, free the oppressed, fight injustice, and take "the gospel to the ends of the earth."
CLICK HERE to read more.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 9, 2012

GRACE PRESBYTERY OF TEXAS - "Our Faith in Action projects are always varied, with opportunities for all ages and skill levels," said Rev. John Hare. "We've built a wheelchair ramp for a small, flood-damaged church, served brunch at the community college dorms, offered a drive-through brunch in front of the church, and landscaped the animal shelter. We've even served coffee to folks passing through Gainesville on the Amtrak train!"
CLICK HERE to read more.

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 8, 2012

EASTERN OKLAHOMA PRESBYTERY - Congregations in Eastern Oklahoma Presbytery are actively serving their communities. Creative ministries addressing hunger, poverty, health, and global missions abound.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Baron Batch to speak of "Hope In Life"

This Saturday, February 11, hear a story of "Hope In Life" from Baron Batch: Midland Son, Pittsburgh Steeler, Missionary and Man of God. The event is open to the public, and will take place in Fellowship Hall of First Baptist Church-Midland, at 6:30 pm. The church is located at 2104 W Louisiana Ave. (northeast corner of Louisiana and Garfield), in Midland. For more information, call (432) 683-0600.

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 in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 7, 2012

CIMARRON PRESBYTERY OF OKLAHOMA - First-century church leaders traveled long distances by ship and by foot to establish and nurture Christian communities. Teaching was supplemented from afar by the use of hand-delivered letters of instruction, commendation, correction, and encouragement. Between visits and letters, communities of faith were supported by prayer as they grew in the knowledge of God and worked at bearing fruit.
CLICK HERE to read more.