Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

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 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 30, 2013

GLOBAL WEEK OF ACTION AGAINST GUN VIOLENCE: EUROPE - Europe, comprised of approximately 50 sovereign states and 830 million people, contains an increasingly complex confederation of 27 countries, the European Union. All countries in Europe continue to reel from the euro-area sovereign debt crisis and ensuing economic, social, and political changes. Elections in many corners reveal deep societal uncertainties, dissatisfactions, and crises in leadership. However, the EU remains a destination for immigrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.

CLICK HERE to read more.

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THE 2014 PRESBYTERIAN MISSION YEARBOOK - Where are the young adults? How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase a copy

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

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 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 29, 2013

MINUTE FOR MISSION: EVANGELISM - When leaders at C. N. Jenkins Memorial Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, began using Engage, a Presbyterian Mission Agency resource, they started praying and reading Scripture together. In the process, their faith stories came alive, touching 94 people who made professions of faith, 63 becoming new members.

The congregation also became engaged in new service opportunities in its community, partnering with Covenant Presbyterian Church in “Impact Charlotte.” More than 800 volunteers worked together on 50 service projects.

CLICK HERE to read more.

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THE 2014 PRESBYTERIAN MISSION YEARBOOK - Where are the young adults? How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase a copy

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

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 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 28, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF WESTERN NEW YORK - Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church, Buffalo, is like many other urban Presbyterian churches. The neighborhood is different than it was when the church was founded. Membership is small. Money is tight.

God brought some visionary people to Lafayette. They came from unexpected places, such as the suburbs, Pentecostal churches, and even the psychiatric center. These people were seeking a new expression of church, and Lafayette had already developed a reputation for taking risks with the resources it had, mostly by welcoming people who had been excluded in other places.

CLICK HERE to read more.

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THE 2014 PRESBYTERIAN MISSION YEARBOOK - Where are the young adults? How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase a copy

The Match-and-Match is Back ... WRAPPING-UP SEPTEMBER ... get rolling!

Founded in 2001, Free Wheelchair Mission is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to providing wheelchairs for the impoverished disabled in developing nations. Headquartered in Irvine, California, FWM works around the world in partnership with a vast network of humanitarian, faith-based and government organizations, sending wheelchairs to hundreds of thousands of disabled people, providing not only the gift of mobility, but of dignity, independence, and hope.



The new and improved model!

Buy ONE wheelchair for $72, and send FOUR! Magic? No. What's 's happening is that local supporters of the Free Wheelchair Mission have once again arranged for "double matching funds" for contributions received from right now, until the end of October.

Want to take one for a test drive? During normal business hours, visit the lobby at the Texas Street entrance of First Presbyterian Church-Midland, at the northwest corner of Texas and A streets, on the west side of downtown Midland. You can give the gift of mobility. The cost of $72.00 is a bargain to us ... but it is a life-changing gift to impoverished and disabled recipients ... and for a limited time, your contribution will be matched ... and matched again ... reaching not one, but FOUR recipients.

Please note on your check "Wheelchair Matching Gift."

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

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 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 27, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF WEST JERSEY - Faced with a hungry crowd numbering over 5,000 people, Jesus’ disciples wondered where they would find the resources to feed all of them. “How many loaves have you?” Jesus asked them. The answer to that question for West Jersey Presbytery is 61—the number of congregations in the presbytery. Each congregation and its members (11,954 of them in all!) are a resource for ministry and mission in the name of Jesus Christ.

The presbytery has made homelessness and hunger a mission priority.

CLICK HERE to read more.

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THE 2014 PRESBYTERIAN MISSION YEARBOOK - Where are the young adults? How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase a copy

In the News ... "Nursing is part of God’s plan for MC grad"

By Rebecca Bell
Dean of Community Relations & Special Events
Midland College

Suzanne Wilson Collins, R.N., was 18 years old when her first son was born with a bilateral cleft lip palate, which is a hole between the oral and nasal cavities. The young mother found herself in and out of hospitals and surgical units beginning when her son was just one month old. Twenty-four years and thirty-one surgeries later, Collins said that God definitely has a plan for everyone, and His plan for her centers around helping and caring for those in need.

As a young girl, Collins and her sister were removed from an extremely unstable family situation and placed in a foster home with an older couple, who eventually adopted them. Once she and her sister were in a loving environment, Collins said her childhood and teen years were normal. She participated in school sports (basketball, tennis and softball) and graduated from Odessa High School. Collins married, moved to Midland, had two more children. In 1997 she began working as an office manager for a home healthcare agency.

“Somehow my life just always has gone in the direction of healthcare,” said Collins. “Working in the healthcare field made me realize that I wanted to be a nurse, so when my youngest son was in kindergarten, I decided to enroll at Midland College and began taking prerequisites for the associate degree nursing program.”

• read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

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 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 26, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF UTICA, NEW YORK - In early 2009, First Presbyterian Church in Utica needed to prayerfully consider how its food pantry was going to continue serving its neighbors after over 20 years of continuous operation. These prayers were answered when three neighboring congregations—Our Saviour Lutheran Church (Utica), New Hartford First United Methodist Church, and New Hartford Presbyterian Church—agreed to join them in an ecumenical partnership. The partnership brought new donations of money and food and many new enthusiastic volunteers.

CLICK HERE to read more.

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THE 2014 PRESBYTERIAN MISSION YEARBOOK - Where are the young adults? How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase a copy

WRAPPING UP SEPTEMBER ... The Match-and-Match is Back ... so let's get rolling!

Founded in 2001, Free Wheelchair Mission is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to providing wheelchairs for the impoverished disabled in developing nations. Headquartered in Irvine, California, FWM works around the world in partnership with a vast network of humanitarian, faith-based and government organizations, sending wheelchairs to hundreds of thousands of disabled people, providing not only the gift of mobility, but of dignity, independence, and hope.



The new and improved model!

Buy ONE wheelchair for $72, and send FOUR! Magic? No. What's 's happening is that local supporters of the Free Wheelchair Mission have once again arranged for "double matching funds" for contributions received from right now, until the end of October.

Want to take one for a test drive? During normal business hours, visit the lobby at the Texas Street entrance of First Presbyterian Church-Midland, at the northwest corner of Texas and A streets, on the west side of downtown Midland. You can give the gift of mobility. The cost of $72.00 is a bargain to us ... but it is a life-changing gift to impoverished and disabled recipients ... and for a limited time, your contribution will be matched ... and matched again ... reaching not one, but FOUR recipients.

Please note on your check "Wheelchair Matching Gift."

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

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 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 25, 2013

MINUTE FOR MISSION: GLOBAL WEEK OF ACTION AGAINST GUN VIOLENCE - My only brother, FBI Special Agent Mike Miller, was one of three law enforcement officers shot and killed at Washington, DC, Metropolitan Police Headquarters in November 1994 by a lone gunman wielding a loaded and concealed assault pistol.

For a long time after Mike’s death, which came just before Thanksgiving, I could not countenance the holiday. Thankfully, I eventually did two things: I turned to the God who in Psalm 91 promises to protect, and I devoted myself to action to keep others from suffering as my family has and does.

CLICK HERE to read more.

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THE 2014 PRESBYTERIAN MISSION YEARBOOK - Where are the young adults? How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase a copy

Invitation to Prayer: TOMORROW

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

A reminder from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Intercessor,

Please join the Faces of Children prayer group on Wednesday, September 25, 2013, at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride’s room at First Presbyterian Church-Midland, as we lift in prayer the children of our hearts and communities. Lunch ($5) and fellowship 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.

Struggling to slow down the ride,

Chris

In the News ... "Parenting psychologist to speak about the price of privilege"

Ragini Venkatasubban, Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Success isn’t all about good grades, high test scores or prominent college acceptances, according to author and psychologist Madeline Levine.

“While we all hope our children do well in school, we hope with even greater fervor they will do well in life,” said Levine, who has traveled around the country for the past six years speaking about raising children in a world often ruled by report cards and standardized tests.

She is the author of “The Price of Privilege” and “Teach Your Children Well: Parenting for Authentic Success.”

Levine will speak at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday and 11:30 a.m. Thursday at First Presbyterian Church, 800 W. Texas Ave. Lunch will be provided Thursday; reservations are required at 432-684-7821. Admission is free.

 • read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

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 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 24, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY, NEW YORK - During the last week of August 2011, Hurricane Irene made landfall and traveled through the eastern edge of New York State. Record rainfall and high winds produced widespread flooding of the Delaware River and power outages in several communities. Area congregation members joined other locals and denominational and governmental agencies as first responders in assisting their displaced neighbors. Food and clothing were donated at such levels that it seemed no one went without.

But that was only a prelude to Hurricane Lee, whose swath of destruction included the western half of Susquehanna Valley Presbytery.

CLICK HERE to read more.

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THE 2014 PRESBYTERIAN MISSION YEARBOOK - Where are the young adults? How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase a copy

ChinaAid: "House church pastor in need of emergency cardiovascular surgery seeks financial support"

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

House church pastor in need of emergency cardiovascular surgery seeks financial support

Distributed by ChinaAid, September, 2013 ...

CHINA – On Sept. 3, Pastor Liu Fenggang is asking for financial assistance after learning that he once again needs surgery to treat his many cardiac conditions.

In need of emergency surgery, Liu argued with the cardiologist to do the surgery required, but instead was forcibly discharged from the hospital because he could not pay the 70,000 yuan ($11,440).

• more on this story from China Aid

Invitation to Prayer: Wednesday

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).

These Are the Gifts I Ask

These are the gifts I ask
Of Thee, Spirit serene:
Strength for the daily task,
Courage to face the road,
Good cheer to help me bear the traveler’s load,
And, for the hours of rest that come between,
An inward joy of all things heard and seen.
       Henry Van Dyke

Bedside Prayers: Prayers and Poems for When You Rise and Go to Sleep
by June Cotner

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Intercessor,

As I look at my calendar for September and October, I take a deep breath and wonder how I’m going to get everything done between all of the trips and out-of-town events. I didn’t even bother to unpack my toiletry kit this last time because I’m just going to drop it into the suitcase in a couple of days. Do you ever feel this way? That time is a carousel horse just whizzing around at top speed and you’re holding on for dear life?

This prayer by Henry Van Dyke brings me great comfort during these days of rush and frenzy, these days of car and plane travel, these days of stress and urgency. It reminds me to “be still and know that I am God”… to find time to celebrate the “inward joy of all things heard and seen.” Thanks be to God for reminders from Psalm and poem!

Please join the Faces of Children prayer group on Wednesday, September 25, 2013, at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride’s room at First Presbyterian Church-Midland, as we lift in prayer the children of our hearts and communities. Lunch ($5) and fellowship 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.

Struggling to slow down the ride,

Chris

In the News ... "Midland ministry hosts Christians from Syria"

MRT photo by Tim Fischer

Ragini Venkatasubban, Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - As the conflict in Syria reaches new heights, one group of Syrians has struck a chord with Midlanders.

Watch and Pray International Ministries, founded by Midland pastor the Rev. Getaneh Getaneh, hosted two Christians from Syria on Wednesday and Thursday in Midland to speak about the persecution of Christians in the Muslim-dominated Syria.

Because of the ongoing persecution, the two visitors’ names, photos and identifying details of their stories have not been released. They will return to Syria soon and continue to spread the Gospel, Getaneh said.

 • read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

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 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 23, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND - In 2006 Rev. Gerson Annunciacao, Brazilian pastor of Christ is Life Presbyterian Church in Fall River, Massachusetts, received an anxious telephone call from Rio de Janeiro asking him to visit a family member incarcerated in Worcester. Thus began a ministry to incarcerated immigrants, which in 2011 became a full-time validated mission of the Presbytery of Southern New England. This ministry helps incarcerated immigrants and their families overcome fear and a sense of isolation as they face uncertain futures. The loaves they need for the nourishment of their souls are those of faith, hope, and love. As one put it: “When I came here, I was at rock bottom. But I was wrong. I was hungry for God, thirsty for Jesus.”

CLICK HERE to read more.

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THE 2014 PRESBYTERIAN MISSION YEARBOOK - Where are the young adults? How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase a copy

First Presbyterian Church LIFE Speaker Series presents, Dr. Madeline Levine

Madeline Levine, best-selling author and psychologist will appear at Midland’s First Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, September 25 at 6:30 pm, to lead a seminar for Permian Basin parents, teachers, grandparents, and coaches of kids of all ages, based on her books The Price of Privilege and her new book, “Teach Your Children Well: Parenting for Authentic Success.”

Levine’s books offer practical advice for adults who have children that are constantly bombarded with demands of perfectionism and materialism, rather than healthy self-esteem development.

• Thursday, September 26 
• 11:30 am to 1:00 pm in Lynn Hall  
• Reservations will be required for the Thursday event and a box lunch will be provided.
• Wednesday, September 25 
• 6:30 pm in the Sanctuary
• Admission is free. First Presbyterian Church is providing FREE childcare.
  
  • CLICK HERE for more information  

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

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 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 22, 2013

MINUTE FOR MISSION: NATIVE AMERICAN DAY - It was late, but it was the beginning; there were whispers, but then the voices became stronger and louder; there were soft chuckles, but then came the gut-busting laughter.

Such were the transitions for 10 Native American youth when they first met as the leadership team for the American Indian Youth Council of the PC(USA) over a weekend in April 2012. These young people, ranging from 14 to 16 years of age, came from Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California, Idaho, and Alaska to begin a three-year commitment to providing leadership for Native American youth in the church.

CLICK HERE to read more.

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THE 2014 PRESBYTERIAN MISSION YEARBOOK - Where are the young adults? How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase a copy

In the News ... "Hymn festival to bring together local churches"

Ragini Venkatasubban, Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - A dozen churches from Midland and Odessa will come together this weekend for an evening of traditional hymns.

First Presbyterian Church of Midland will host its second hymn festival, “All Times and Spaces: Praise God!” at 6:30 p.m. Sunday at the church, 800 W. Texas Ave. Choir members from Presbyterian, United Methodist, Episcopal, Lutheran and Catholic churches in Midland and Odessa will lead the congregation in traditional hymns.

 • read the rest of this story

 • more about the event

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

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 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 21, 2013

MINUTE FOR MISSION: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE - From my office window, I see a sculpture in front of the United Nations Headquarters, of a revolver tied into a knot. Carl Fredrick Reuterswärd created this famous sculpture as a tribute following the violent death of his friend John Lennon, who sang a song asking us to “imagine all the people living life in peace . . . sharing all the world.” The sculpture was given to the United Nations by the government of Luxembourg in 1988, six years after the first International Day of Peace was celebrated.

The gun barrel tied into a knot renders the gun harmful to the shooter rather than the target. Imagine a world where those who intend harm were themselves harmed. Imagine a world where those who oppress became oppressed themselves. Imagine a world where we honored our neighbors as ourselves.

CLICK HERE to read more.

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THE 2014 PRESBYTERIAN MISSION YEARBOOK - Where are the young adults? How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase a copy

In the News ..."A Message of Importance"

Staff Report
Fort Stockton Pioneer

FORT STOCKTON, TEXAS - The violent clashing of faiths in Nigeria has been a topic regularly examined by the media and distilled for your American audio-visual pleasure. But out of the polarizing chaos in a distant land, has come a messenger with something important to say ...

In fact, this messenger has come to Fort Stockton. You might have seen him behind the pharmacy counter at Walmart. His name is Mezie Okolo and he is much more than an adviser and dispenser of prescribed medicine.

 • read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

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 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 20, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF THE PALISADES, NEW JERSEY - In the fall of 2011, six Presbyterian churches in the Presbytery of the Palisades were approached with the idea of hosting a concert to raise money for Children of Uganda. This organization works with local nongovernmental organizations and community groups to address the needs of Uganda’s most vulnerable population—children. Uganda’s AIDS epidemic, extreme poverty, and decades of civil conflict have left its country with more than 2.4 million orphans.

One of the ways that Children of Uganda is raising money is through the talents of Ugandan children who tour around the United States in the Tour of Light. Combining dance, testimony, and music, these young people have been delighting audiences and impressing reviewers around the globe.

CLICK HERE to read more.

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THE 2014 PRESBYTERIAN MISSION YEARBOOK - Where are the young adults? How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase a copy

Faces of Children: Prayer Concerns for This Week

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 9/19/13

Egypt

• Please keep close in prayer Christian children and families in Egypt who have been the target of Islamist vigilantes. Pray for those whose places of worship have been attacked, vandalized, or burned down. More than 60 churches, most in Egypt’s Nile Valley, have been attacked in response to a violent raid last month on two Islamist protest camps in Cairo by Egyptian security forces.
• more on this request
• Please pray the government will investigate the incidents and provide protection to frightened Christians in this region. Police had yet to investigate any of the incidents several weeks after they occurred.
• Pray for peace between Christian and Islamist groups throughout Egypt. Pray for an end to sectarian violence in this country.

South Asia

• Please pray for boys and girls living in South Asia who are at great risk of being trafficked, especially after natural disasters or violent conflicts. South Asia is the fastest growing and second largest region for human trafficking in the world. Pray for girls trafficked in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh where they are sold into forced marriage, bonded work in prostitution or domestic service, or paid for their organs.
• Pray all children displaced by conflict or disasters will be protected from exploitation and will find safe, child-friendly places in which to seek shelter.
• more on this request

Sudan

• Keep in prayer the 100,000 children and people of Sudan who were displaced by flash floods and heavy rain early last month. Pray for those who are still without proper shelter, medical care, clean water, or sanitation services. An estimated 14,000 houses were damaged or destroyed by flooding.
• more on this request
United States

• Please keep the family and friends of 16-year-old McCain Endres close in prayer as they mourn his death in a motorcycle accident last May. Pray for the teenage girl who was driving the vehicle McCain's motorcycle hit.
     o Give God thanks for the compassion and acceptance this young woman has received from McCain's friends and parents. They don't blame her for the accident that killed McCain and his parents even told her this when they invited her to attend McCain's funeral. Thanks be to God for the way his parents and friends have modeled this compassion and love.
     o Pray for the students who have been harshly critical of this young woman on social media, blaming her for McCain's death.
• more on this request
• Pray for 14-month-old Reed who is recovering from a MRSA infection on his skin. (MRSA is a type of staph bacteria that is resistant to certain antibiotics.)
• more on this request
     o Give thanks to God that Reed was able to leave the hospital recently and continue recovery at home. Pray the infection will heal completely and that his pain will diminish soon. The infected area on his back and shoulders has the appearance of a severe burn.
     o Pray for God's comfort for Reed's 4-year-old brother Lane who is having difficulty understanding what is going on since his mother and brother have been away from home so much. Please keep Reed's parents in prayer as they care for him at home.
• Please continue to lift in prayer 5-month-old Haydn * who will have surgery to replace the G-tube in his stomach with a GJ feeding tube that goes directly into his small intestines. Pray this surgical procedure is successful and will help Haydn gain weight and strength. Pray God will bring healing to this little one who's already been through one open heart surgery and continues to experience great pain from his gastrointestinal issues.
     o ontinue to keep Haydn's mother close in prayer. Pray she will be able to manage all of Haydn's medical needs as she cares for him. And pray God will sustain her throughout this challenging time. Pray also that God will bring her peace as she continues to grieve the death of her 1 ½-year-old daughter.
* Name changed for confidentiality and/or protection.

Faces of Children

• lease keep Faces of Children prayer partner Eugenia close in prayer as she receives treatment for a torn rotator cuff. Pray for comfort during this painful process and for complete healing. Please pray for God's healing touch to also be upon Eugenia's husband as he recovers from knee replacement surgery.
• more on this request
• 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.

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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 ... "Solving hunger a bowl at a time"

OA Photo by Edyta Blaszczyk

By Lyndsay Weaver, Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Each bowl is made with grit, along with love. Some still use or display their bowls from the first event in Odessa, 15 years ago this fall.

The Empty Bowls dinner raises awareness of hunger and is a community effort with partners in Odessa High, Odessa College and the University of Texas of the Permian Basin. All proceeds from the fundraiser on Nov. 15 will go to the West Texas Food Bank.

 • read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

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 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 19, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF NORTHERN NEW YORK - The congregations of the Presbytery of Northern New York partner with many organizations and people who address the issue of hunger. The presbytery’s mission-giving supports several local organizations that have food pantries. Among these are Watertown Urban Mission; Church and Community Worker, in Canton; and Helping Hands, in Hannawa Falls.

Most of our congregations contribute to food pantries in their areas. Some operate food pantries of their own .

CLICK HERE to read more.

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THE 2014 PRESBYTERIAN MISSION YEARBOOK - Where are the young adults? How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase a copy

In the News ... "Christmas In Action to complete 10,000th home repair"

Ragini Venkatasubban, Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Joe Thomas has been repairing homes in Midland for the past 35 years, and he said it’s brought him to tears many a time.

“We show up, we make a tremendous mess and when we’re gone, it looks like a brand-new house,” he said. “It gives you something for yourself. What good is it to pat somebody on the back and say, ‘Have a good life,’ and then do nothing to help them? Our religion is to help people.”

Thomas is a volunteer for Christmas in Action, a local nonprofit that repairs the homes of the low-income elderly and disabled for free. Homeowners must be 60 or older or physically disabled, live on a fixed income and own their home.

 • read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

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 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 19, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND - For 13 years a partnership between the Presbytery of Northern New England (PNNE) and Amatola Presbytery of the Uniting Church in Southern Africa has found expression in life-changing exchanges involving youth, pastors, and many other groups that have “made footsteps from my door to yours.” In 2011 South African partners asked to send some women leaders to the PNNE for leadership training, saying, “We dream of having leaders with vision.” The exchange exceeded all expectations.

CLICK HERE to read more.

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THE 2014 PRESBYTERIAN MISSION YEARBOOK - Where are the young adults? How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to purchase a copy