The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 31, 2012
PRESEBYTERY OF GENEVA, NEW YORK - The Presbytery of Geneva has long been involved in disaster assistance. Several times each year, members of the presbytery travel to sites where recovery work needs to be done. One critical endeavor is in partnership with the West Virginia Ministry of Advocacy and Workcamps, supported in part by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and the Presbytery of West Virginia.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 30, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF GENESEE VALLEY, NEW YORK - Ministry is a balancing act between covenant and challenge. The mission of a theological seminary is to nurture the call people have experienced to become ministers for Christ, help them probe and test the call, and determine in the seminary community if the call is of God.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 29, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF ELIZABETH, NEW JERSEY - Nestled in the rolling hills of Hunterdon County, New Jersey, Bethlehem Presbyterian Church (BPC) in Pittstown has been a fixture of the community since 1730, fully 46 years before the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The Rev. Laurie Sponaugle is the pastor of this thriving congregation that, through their love of Jesus Christ, serves by supporting such organizations as Anderson House for women recovering from alcohol/drug dependency; The Giving Tree prison ministry; the Interfaith Hospitality Network of Hunterdon County for homeless women and families; the Open Cupboard Food Pantry; and Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 28, 2012
EASTERN KOREAN PRESBYTERY - The Eastern Korean Presbytery (EKP) has assisted Asian American senior citizens by setting up a variety of programs, including free medical checkups and vaccinations. The presbytery has reached out to other Korean organizations, including the Korean Medical Center of Holy Name Hospital, the Korean Social Service Center, and the Korean Nursing Home at Bergen Regional Medical Center. All of these organizations have developed and implemented a program for Asian American senior citizens.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 27, 2012
THE PRESBYTERY OF SYRACUSE, NEW YORK - The story of Elmwood Presbyterian Church on Syracuse's impoverished south side is in many ways typical of other Presbyterian congregations. Formed in the late 1800s, Elmwood grew and thrived, with strong neighborhood connections and a membership that topped 1,200 in the 1960s. Forty-some years later, only 34 members remain. But Elder Jay King, a recently retired public school teacher from the City school system, is determined that Elmwood will continue to bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God - right there in the missional context God has given it today.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Reverend Dr. Theodore Wardlaw, President of Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, will be 'preaching and teaching' in the Tall City when he visits First Presbyterian Church of Midland on Sunday, September 16. First Prez is located on the northwest corner of the intersection of Texas and A streets, on the west edge of downtown Midland. The public is cordially invited to come church with us, and to hear Dr. Wardlaw. Childcare is available.
Theodore J. Wardlaw became the ninth president of Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary in the fall of 2002, having come to the Seminary from the position of Pastor of Atlanta’s Central Presbyterian Church, a historic downtown congregation directly across the street from the Georgia Capitol. President Wardlaw has led the Seminary through its $25 million Centennial Campaign, the largest in the Seminary’s history, as well as the campaign for and construction of the first in a new generation of student housing, the Anderson House apartment building, built in 2009.
Wardlaw received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina, his divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary in Richmond, Virginia, and his Master of Sacred Theology degree (American Church History) from Yale University Divinity School.
He has contributed numerous articles to such periodicals as The Christian Century, The Presbyterian Outlook, Journal for Preachers, Journal of Reformed Liturgy and Music, and Call to Worship.
President Wardlaw is married to Dr. Kay Bryant, a clinical psychologist, and they have two daughters.
CLICK HERE to read Dr. Wardlaw's complete bio
For more information about Dr. Wardlaw's visit, you may contact First Prez-Midland at (432) 684-7821 or nkudsi@fpcmid.org
___________________
For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 26, 2012
MINUTE FOR MISSION: SAN FRANCISCO THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY - Ministry is a balancing act between covenant and challenge. The mission of a theological seminary is to nurture the call people have experienced to become ministers for Christ, help them probe and test the call, and determine in the seminary community if the call is of God.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 25, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF BOSTON - For a number of years, several of the 25 churches and many of the 2,993 Presbyterians in the Presbytery of Boston have volunteered for a week in the summer to provide housing rehabilitation work with Mission at the Eastward in central Maine. This year, churches from the communities of Burlington, Natick, Needham, Newton, Somerville, Sudbury, and Waltham are participating in the program.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 24, 2012
ALBANY PRESBYTERY - In 2010, Albany Presbyteryplanted a visioning seed in a garden to be cultivated in the coming decade. Albany Presbytery's garden is quickly bearing fruit and growing in the knowledge of God as they transform themselves into an active, missional learning community. Money has been set aside especially for people who have never traveled on a mission trip and seen how the Holy Spirit is building up the church in other parts of the world.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 23, 2012
SYNOD OF THE NORTHEAST - The Synod of the Northeast affirms the centrality of the presbytery in the covenantal and connectional Presbyterian system. As a result, the synod's primary mission strategy is to support its 22 presbyteries through consulting, facilitating, and partnering in mission as the presbyteries in turn focus their energy and resources on their congregations.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 22, 2012
PRESBYTERIAN FOUNDATION GROUP - Providing support - locally, nationally, and worldwide - has been the hallmark of the Presbyterian Foundation for over 200 years. The Foundation's mission is to partner in trusted and helpful relationships within the church and to bring people and mission together to advance Christ's mission.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Sarah Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram
MIDLAND, TEXAS -
Midlanders will have a new contemporary worship option when Second Baptist Church-Midland launches a new congregation Sept. 9 at its temporary home in the Greathouse Elementary cafetorium.
The new church, aptly named North Church for its future location near Briarwood Avenue and Midland Drive, will serve as a second campus for Second Baptist and provide a more “21st-century” feel with its contemporary worship, according to the Rev. H.W. Erwin, Jr.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 21, 2012
OFFICE OF GENERAL ASSEMBLY - Empowered by the Holy Spirit, the Office of the General Assembly (OGA) encourages the PC(USA) to be a people of hope, seeking together the mind of Christ, working for justice and mercy in the world, and participating in God's continual reformation of the church.
CLICK HERE to read more.
Staff Report
Reporter
Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - St. James Baptist Church officials are warning residents to be wary of groups selling dinners to fundraise for the church.
The Rev. Roger T. McNeil said that some people are soliciting money for dinners to supposedly help the church that are not affiliated nor approved by any church officials.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 20, 2012
PRESBYTERIAN MISSION AGENCY - The Presbyterian Mission Agency offers a visible witness to Jesus Christ in collaboration with partners in more than 100 countries. It extends ``servanthood'' by responding to those in need following disasters. And it addresses injustice in all areas of life by advocating for peaceful solutions to conflict in the United States and beyond.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 19, 2012
MINUTE FOR MISSION: YOUTH IN THE CHURCH AND THE WORLD - "You are the generation we've been waiting for ... and we need you now more than ever before!"
Those words, spoken by Dr. Tony Campolo, hang in the air and the miles between those of us gathered for the closing service of the 2010 Presbyterian Youth Triennium.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 18, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA - In 2009, one-third of the churches in the presbytery began a three-year adventure called the Acts 16:5 Initiative, through the Vital Churches Institute. Third Street Presbyterian Church in Gastonia was one of those churches who looked at the Initiative's call to "reach, grow, send." Taking seriously its own vision to be "a church of God's servants impacting, changing, and growing lives spiritually in church and community," the church formed a three-way partnership with Rhyne Elementary School and the families of the West Highland community.
CLICK HERE to read more.
Annie Dieselberg heads the staff at NightLight, a ministry in urban Bangkok, Thailand, that reaches out to women and children working in the bar areas of the Nana-Sukhumvit district. Located in a neighborhood with a growing sex trade, Nightlight’s vision is to share the Light of the world in both word and deed to those who live in darkness, and to combat the sexual exploitation of women and children, both Thai and foreign.
Right now, Annie tells us, the greatest need at NightLight is to sell more jewelry. NightLight Design Co., Ltd. is a registered jewellery business which employs women coming out of prostitution or having been at risk of prostitution and/or trafficking.
If you are interested in hosting a jewelry party please write to Charity at NightLight, at jewelry@nightlightinternational.com, and she will assist you in setting that up.
Remember the beautiful jewelry is also available on-line at store.nightlightinternational.com/
"God is going before us to the bars preparing the way. He is sending us to receive the women and give hope," Annie writes. "We ask you to join us in this adventure. Thank you to those of you who already do. You are saving lives!"
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 17, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF THE SHENANDOAH, VIRGINIA AND WEST VIRGINIA - Children and backpacks. They go together with school, recess, and new pencils. They have been an important part of the ministry at Spring of Hope, an outreach program of Promised Land Ministries at San Lucas Toliman, located on Lake Atitlan in Guatemala. This school program developed after Presbyterian churches from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia joined to help purchase land for a mission outreach program there. Medical and veterinary services also have been part of the program. Education has grown to include 240 children in the 2011 school year. Each January the staff at Spring of Hope gathers to prepare for a new year. New backpacks are filled with school supplies, books, pencils, and markers and placed in the classroom.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American
MIDLAND/ODESSA, TEXAS - Every year hundreds of children in Permian Basin are taken out of their homes, forced out by unfortunate circumstances and placed into emergency shelters and foster homes.
But amid the often times traumatic events, many children are also being sent out of the Permian Basin with the lack of foster families available in the region. According to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, as of June 2012 around 78 percent of children in Ector County removed from their homes by Child Protective Services are placed in foster homes outside of the county every year.
That’s around 194 children a year, said Jalynn Hogan, executive director for the foster care and adoption organization High Sky Children’s Ranch in Midland.
“Children in the Permian Basin are placed outside of our area for foster care, because there are not enough homes,” Hogan said. “At any one time, there might be 30 to 31 children in emergency shelters. The younger they are, the more it impacts their ability to form long-term attachment and relationships.”
To help combat the Permian Basin’s lack of foster families, the Rev. Daniel Stephens, lead pastor at Midcities Community Church, asked the church community to help recruit willing foster families in the initiative, One More Home.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 16, 2012
SALEM PRESBYTERY, NORTH CAROLINA - Since 1989, Salem Presbytery has collected and distributed nearly $3 million through Pennies for Hunger.
The Domestic Hunger Committee makes grants in spring and fall for a variety of feeding programs within the 19 counties of Salem Presbytery.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Jessica Lobaugh
Contributor
Midland Reporter-Telegram
MIDLAND, TEXAS - Ever since I can remember my father, Tom Lobaugh, has been passionate about many things — with story telling and hospitality near the top of the list. He and my mother always were inviting people into our home and would care for them as if they were family for as long as they stayed. Most of the time, it was my father who passed the time telling story after story, making the time pass a little too quickly.
These two passions blend together exquisitely in his first book, “Broken Hearts, Open Doors: The Art of Welcoming Others.”
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 15, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF THE PEAKS, VIRGINIA - Just 2 cents a meal, 3 times a day, 365 days a year enable the Presbytery of the Peaks to award more than $100,000 in annual grants toward the alleviation and elimination of hunger and poverty. These funds make it possible for countless individuals in Virginia and around the world to benefit through food pantries, soup kitchens, after-school programs, backpack projects, and community gardens, along with education in nutrition and agriculture.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - Seven days after a fire destroyed St. James Baptist Church, church members are moving forward with the help of Odessa’s religious community..
A mere few hours after the blaze was controlled, St. James’ lead pastor, the Rev. Roger T. McNeil, and his congregation received an outpouring of support, with several church leaders asking their members to pray for the devastated church..
“The church community was very resourceful. I’m talking to ministers that show a helping hand. I’m very grateful to that,” McNeil said. “The church community has been very good and very kind.”.
But churches have also provided physically tangible efforts to help the church rebuild.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 14, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF NEW HOPE, NORTH CAROLINA - From the day it chartered in 1998, God has blessed Cornerstone Presbyterian Church (CPC) in Cary. Early blessings included gifts of faith, generosity, perseverance, and love.
Early in 2009, CPC entered a season of rapid growth. The church began to see a harvest for their years of cultivation. In 2009, CPC grew from 151 to 192 members. The next year was a breakout year for this congregation: membership increased to 224 members and average worship attendance increased from 156 in 2009 to more than 180 in 2010. That was the first year Cornerstone did not receive financial assistance from the Presbytery of New Hope.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Sara Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram
ZAMBIA, AFRICA - Bishop Michael Pfeifer already has sent his letter of resignation from San Angelo to Rome, but his pending retirement didn’t keep him from traveling halfway around the world to Africa last month.
Pfeifer spent a week in the country of Zambia, where he was invited to ordain five native Africans as priests in a celebration located in the community of Lusaka. Four were ordained into the international religious community to which Pfeifer belongs, which is called Oblates of Mary Immaculate, and one was ordained for the local church.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 13, 2012
NEW CASTLE PREBYTERY, MARYLAND - The Fellowship began in the home of one of its members in the fall of 2007 when a group of Ghanaian Presbyterians got together to share the Word of God. They sought to recreate a traditional Ghanaian Presbyterian worship experience because they knew of fellow Ghanaian Presbyterians who were not attending church, having yet to find one in which they felt truly at home. From the seven adults who made up the initial group, the Fellowship, now a mission of the presbytery and nested with Limestone Presbyterian Church, has an average attendance of 35 people at its Sunday morning service.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 12, 2012
MINUTE FOR MISSION: HIGHER EDUCATION - Put away from you all bitterness and wrath and anger and wrangling and slander, together with all malice, and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you. Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (Ephesians 4:31-5:2)
Early in the semester, a crisis arose among some of the students in our Religion Department. In a class on Friday it started as a heated debate about the role of women in the church. Unaware of this, on Tuesday, the interim director of campus ministry and I led worship in chapel (two women in the church), and that evening it grew hotter still as a male student posted 1 Timothy 2:12 on Facebook: “I permit no woman to teach or to have authority over a man, she is to keep silent.” By Thursday evening, all manner of bitterness and wrath and anger and wrangling and slander, together with malice, was flying around our church-related institution of higher education.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 11, 2012
NATIONAL CAPITAL PRESBYTERY - Church of the Pilgrims is known for its ministries of social justice and outreach, particularly to the poor and homeless. One of their long-term mission projects is the Pilgrimage. Set up like a hostel, The Pilgrimage welcomes groups of up to 40 people and puts people into contact with the poor and low-income residents of Washington, DC, through experiential learning projects. Programs are set up for Pilgrimage groups to work in soup kitchens, food banks, urban gardens, and homeless shelters.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - In the perils of war, the Rev. Mike Wikstrom has seen and encountered many things that most people will never have to witness.
From grieving the loss of 56 of his fellow soldiers and coming face-to-face with Taliban members, Wikstrom has experiences that would try anyone’s faith.
But for Wikstrom, the trials of war have only made his faith stronger.
“Going through that process of having great wonderful stuff and being stripped down to nothing, it creates a despair and dependency on God because that’s all you have,” Wikstrom said. “I had my faith stripped down and rattled and insecure, but then to have that restored by God – I get a picture now I didn’t get before.”
After serving for more than 12 years as a hospital and army chaplain, Wikstrom is now serving as an army reserve chaplain and Lutheran Church of the Risen Lord’s interim pastor.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 10, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF THE JAMES - The presbytery-wide discernment year of 2008 was the foundation for a restructuring of the programs and services of the Presbytery of the James. Discernment led to the development of the new vision plan. The new structure consists of three teams: Coordination and Communication, Leadership Connection, and Mission and Service. Under the vision plan, any three members of the presbytery can come together and form a purpose group, present their goals and budget and, if approved, assignment to a team then will be made. The purpose groups fall into three categories: recognition, needing staff support, and financial support. Each purpose group has a separate page on the presbytery website where they list their goals for the coming year and pertinent information about the group.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 9, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF EASTERN VIRGINA - But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33)
Christ Presbyterian Church (CPC) has been a visible presence on the corner of Aragona and Witchduck Roads in Virginia Beach for over 50 years. Seeking the kingdom seemed easier after World War II when the neighborhood was filled with the post-war baby boom. The first vacation Bible school shut down because there were too many children. Today the neighborhood, after experiencing an aging cycle, is filling with young families. CPC is following suit by seeking God's kingdom anew.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American
MIDLAND/ODESSA, TEXAS - While TV dominates household entertainment for many people, in Monica Ramirez’s home it’s the radio that dominates the airwaves.
But for Ramirez and her husband, listening to the radio is more than just entertainment, it’s an extension of their Catholic faith.
Since her husband completely lost his eyesight 10 years ago, Ramirez said listening to the radio, specifically Midland’s Guadalupe Radio Network, has helped them feel more connected to the Catholic Church.
“It’s the connection, the Catholicism, of knowing we’re one large community,” Ramirez said.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 8, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF COASTAL CAROLINA - The Presbytery of Coastal Carolina seeks to help its member congregations bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God by providing mission and outreach support for new and existing ministries. The presbytery adopted a five-year plan for 2011-2016 that emphasizes service to the member congregations as they work to share the gospel of Jesus Christ and the love of God within their communities and throughout the world.
CLICK HERE to read more.
By Eric Woods
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram
MIDLAND, TEXAS -
The halls of First United Methodist Church soon will be filled with the sound of laughter and music as the Dollye Neal Worship Arts Academy reopens with a new director, auditioned children’s chorus and piano lab.
This fall, the academy will feature private, group and seminar instruction in voice, piano, organ and guitar, as well as visual arts and photography for all ages. New executive director Laura Holleman, who holds Master of Music degrees in church music and organ performance, has taught music to students of all ages in a private studio for 30 years and been involved with church music for 35 years.
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The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 7, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF CHARLOTTE - New Friendship Presbyterian Church believes “the fruit of a believer is another believer.” One of 10 Transformation Pilot Churches in the Presbytery of Charlotte, the community is its mission field. Making disciples for Jesus Christ is its charge, and spiritual growth of each member is a must. Not only do they pray for physical healing, they exercise it. Pastor Eulando Henton is empowered to give vision and to lead. They are removing sanctuary pews and using a Starbucks motif to accommodate visitors. Rather than greeting members after worship, the pastor greets only visitors. The church is shifting from its African American heritage to becoming a multicultural congregation. They have collaborated with Angels and Sparrow Soup Kitchen to serve 30,000 meals in Huntersville, a rapidly growing city where more than 450 people relocate monthly. Making time and space for new people is the top priority. Worship attendance has increased by 40 percent since this shift in mission was implemented.
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By Mark Sterkel
Reporter
Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - An account has been set up with American State Bank for donations to help the congregation of St. James Baptist Church start rebuilding the church they lost in a Wednesday night blaze.
Kirk Willis, a deacon with the church, said so far, the account has only $200 in it and one group has donated a piano and organ to the church. Willis also said several members of the community and different parishes have offered to help.
St. James, 300 S. Hancock Ave., caught fire for an unknown reason Wednesday evening around 9:34 p.m. and Odessa Fire and Rescue responded to put out the fire, but the scene was not cleared until 8 a.m. Thursday.
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The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 6, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF BALTIMORE - Since 2006, the Presbytery of Baltimore has been at the forefront of the United Workers Association's Fair Development campaign to ensure a living wage and adequate working conditions for service workers and laborers at Baltimore's Inner Harbor, sports arenas, and downtown tourist attractions. These waitresses, busboys, clerks, maintenance technicians, laborers, and service workers are among the lowest paid employees in Baltimore. And without union or governmental protection, they are also the most vulnerable - often subject to discrimination; denied health care and sick leave; and forced to labor off the clock.
CLICK HERE to read more.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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: August 5, 2012
MINUTE FOR MISSION: HOMELESS/AFFORDABLE HOUSING - In 2007, Westminster Presbyterian in Minneapolis celebrated its 150th anniversary. The church conducted an anniversary campaign and committed 20 percent for local and global mission. Nearby Plymouth Congregational also turned 150 that year. The churches formed a housing development, Limited Liability Corporation (LLC), with a local, affordable housing developer. The LLC was named Housing 150 in recognition of the anniversaries and as a goal of creating 150 units of affordable, supportive housing.
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The 13th annual Rock the Desert Festival, "Don't Stop Believin,'" takes place August 2-4 at the organization's festival grounds on FM 1788, and will feature 33 bands, a duo of speakers and a motorcross stunt act.
By Jon Vanderlaan
Reporter
Odessa American
MIDLAND, TEXAS - Selling CDs and merchandise at Rock the Desert, Midland College student Jacob Nicholas said he felt like he needed to help at the three-day festival.
So he became a volunteer.
“I felt like God wanted me here and they needed help,” he said. “I could have been out there doing other stuff, but I feel like God wanted me here.”
Nicholas said he likes seeing the change that happens in people, and it’s one reason he enjoys doing the volunteer work.
But at the end of the day, he said he wouldn’t care what he was doing at the festival, as long as he was a part of it.
“I wouldn’t mind picking up trash out here and telling people about Jesus Christ,” Nicholas said. “I’d do anything.
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The 13th annual Rock the Desert Festival, "Don't Stop Believin,'" takes place August 2-4 at the organization's festival grounds on FM 1788, and will feature 33 bands, a duo of speakers and a motorcross stunt act.
By Audrie Palmer
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram
MIDLAND, TEXAS -
Those who are camping out at the annual Rock the Desert event are doing so because it's a tradition, rather than because they were forced to because of the lack of available and affordable hotel rooms in the area.
Bart and Patsy Reid, of Imperial, have camped out with their family for the past 10 years. They said when they attended the first year of the music festival they spent nearly an hour in traffic trying to leave the property.
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By Nathaniel Miller
Reporter
Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - Physically, the building on 300 S. Hancock Ave. that was the home of St. James Baptist Church has been called a complete loss by city officials and its pastor.
With more than half the building’s roof caved in, only the black remains of a baby grand piano and organ help identify the room that was once the sanctuary. Roof tiles were scattered across the parking lot and street and deep tire tracks are left in the ground from where Odessa Fire/Rescue engines stayed all night trying to extinguish Wednesday night’s fire. At the scene, the strong smell of burned ash emanated from the pile of rubble.
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The 13th annual Rock the Desert Festival, "Don't Stop Believin,'" takes place August 2-4 at the organization's festival grounds on FM 1788, and will feature 33 bands, a duo of speakers and a motorcross stunt act.
By Jon Vanderlaan
Reporter
Odessa American
MIDLAND, TEXAS - After 13 years of concerts in the heat of the summer, Doug Tull knows what it takes to keep tens of thousands of teenagers and music lovers from succumbing to the heat.
Namely, plenty of water and tents set up throughout the grounds of Rock the Desert, for which Tull is expecting to sell 20,000 tickets.
Kelsee Jones, a Midlander who attended with her husband and children, said she has been going to the festival for the past three years and likes that it is family friendly.
“(But the heat) is miserable,” Jones said. As part of adapting to the heat, her family bought a large ground umbrella specifically for Rock the Desert.
Tull, a cofounder of the festival, said it’s been hot every year he can remember, but if keeping in the shade and keeping hydrated don’t work, medical personnel are at the festival.
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The 13th annual Rock the Desert Festival, "Don't Stop Believin,'" takes place August 2-4 at the organization's festival grounds on FM 1788, and will feature 33 bands, a duo of speakers and a motorcross stunt act.
By Eric Woods
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram
MIDLAND, TEXAS - When the contemporary Christian alternative rock duo, for King & Country first hit the scene, they were simply known as Joel & Luke. While the name was appropriate, especially since the group is made up of brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone, there just wasn’t enough pop or pizzazz in the name for them.
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By Felicia Bolton
ReporterKOSA-TV
MIDLAND, TEXAS - It's a controversial issue in churches today, gay marriage and the rites homosexuals have in the religious spectrum.
A recent decision by Episcopal Church leaders is breaking traditions and the tearing down the barriers between homosexuals and the church.
For members at the St. Nicholas' Episcopal church in Midland, holding on to their long rooted customs and including all is their main concern, whether gay or straight.
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By Mella McEwen
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram
MIDLAND, TEXAS -
Filling hungry tummies and doing good deeds at the same time is THOMPSON'S BARBECUE AND SOUL FOOD, open in Garfield Plaza at 4519 N. Garfield. Owner Ervin Thompson said his restaurant is a division of his Abundant Faith Ministries, founded in 1997. Proceeds from food purchases, he said, benefit the ministry.
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The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and 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).
