Thursday, October 31, 2013

Prayer Request ... help spread the word about #IDOP

The International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP) is a global day of intercession for persecuted Christians worldwide. Its primary focus is the work of intercessory prayer and citizen action on behalf of persecuted communities of the Christian faith. We also encourage prayer for the souls of the oppressors, the nations that promote persecution, and those who ignore it.

This year IDOP is Sunday, November 3, 2013, or whenever you, your church, family, school or small group can honor this important call to prayer. ALSO, in person or online, or however ... PLEASE hep spread the word about #IDOP, and invite others to do their part!



And on a related note ... a special #IDOP event in the Tall City ...


AWAKE THE NATIONS is the theme of this year's International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. Hear speakers from China, Somalia, Djibouti and other nations speak about the persecuted church.

Experience a time of prayer and worship as the body of Christ comes together in unity for this often ignored issue.

 • more information on this event

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 10/30/13


Australia

Please keep the children and people of New South Wales, Australia close in prayer as they deal with huge bushfires in the greater Sydney area, the Blue Mountains, and the Hunter valley. Pray for those who have lost homes and livelihoods in the 58 fires burning in this region.
more on this request
more on this request
Pray for children whose schools and daycare centers have been closed because of the dangerous threat the fires pose. Pray for children and families who have yet to evacuate in regions threatened by the bushfires.
Please pray for the safety of the hundreds and hundreds of firefighters working to contain and extinguish these massive fires.
more on this request
more on this request
more on this request

Child Brides

Please lift in prayer the 38,000 girls who are sold into marriage every day in what UNICEF calls “the most prevalent form of sexual abuse and exploitation of girls.” Pray for girls who are married off or sold to much older men, leaving child brides to be subjects, not partners, of their husbands. Pray for girl children who experience marital rape in unions where they have no power or control.
more on this request
Please keep in prayer the thousands of girls from Egypt’s poor rural communities who are trafficked into child sex tourism under the guise of temporary “marriages.” In an effort to get around Islamic rules against pre-marital sex, underage girls are sold by their parents into these temporary “marriages” to wealthy men visiting from Gulf countries. Pray for those whose “marriages” last a couple of days or weeks … some girls have been “married” 60 times by the time they are 18 years old.

Pakistan

Pray for the children and families of Pakistan’s Christian community who were affected by the Sunday morning, September 22 attack on All Saints Church in Peshawar. Pray for the family and friends of the 85 people killed in the suicide bombing…many were children attending Sunday school.
more on this request
Please keep in prayer the estimated 120 injured in the attack, what church leaders call the deadliest attack on Christians in the country’s 66-year history.
Pray for 14-year-old Shaloom Nazir who lost his mother, father, sister, brother, and uncle in the bombing. Please pray God will bring him comfort and surround him with a community of love and support.
Pray Christians, who make up only 1 to 2 percent of Pakistan’s population, will be protected from violent acts like this by Islamist militants.
more on this request

United States

Give God thanks for 11-year-old Jordan Peterson’s return home to North Dakota following nearly a year spent in Houston where he had a double-lung transplant. Thanks be to God for the success of Jordan’s transplant surgery…he has been cleared by doctors to play hockey again.
more on this request
Please keep close in prayer Laura and her husband Steve, and their three children: 6-year-old Trent and 3-year-old twins Amber and Tara. Laura has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and has been given a very short time to live. Pray Laura and her family will find moments of joy in this difficult season and that God will comfort them all and bring them peace. Pray for a community of support to surround this young family in crisis.
Give thanks to God that 17-year-old Teresa * has managed to overcome her difficult home situation so far and is doing well in her senior year of high school. Continue to pray God will protect her from the high risk environment in her biological mother’s home. Teresa’s mother frequently spent her time drinking with men in her apartment, exposing her teenage daughter to harmful situations. Thanks be to God for Teresa’s recent acceptance into a university where she plans to study forensic science. She is the first in her immediate family to attend college.
* Name changed for confidentiality and/or protection.

Faces of Children

Keep the Faces of Children exhibit team in prayer as they share this ministry with the participants at the Synod of the South Atlantic 2013 Gathering of Presbyterian Women on St. Simon’s Island, Georgia. Give God thanks for the women whom God is calling to visit the Faces of Children exhibit booth this week. Pray the hearts and minds of those with whom the team visits will be open to praying for children through Faces of Children.
Please continue to pray that more churches and individuals will join with the ministry of Faces of Children in spreading awareness about children in crisis and inviting more people to pray for children at risk.



If you have prayer requests about children, those who care for them, those who have authority over them, or those who harm them (the really hard prayers to say sometimes), please send them to Chris Laufer, FOC Coordinator, at claufer@facesofchildren.net

LAST CALL !!! Wrapping up the Match-and-Match Fundraiser for Free Wheelchair Mission

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!

LAST CALL !!!

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 UNTIL THE END OF OCTOBER ... THAT'S TODAY!!!

You can bring those last-minute - but HUGE impact - contributions to 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. If you'd like, you can also take one for a test drive while you're there.

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."

In the News ... "Ministry, served by the dish"

By Michelle Brownstone, Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - About 150 people, many of them homeless, make their way to Jesus House of Odessa every day for a meal.

“I started feeding people with a friend out of the back of a truck about 10 years ago and it grew from there,” Jesus House founder Donny Kyker said. “We’re the only food kitchen in Odessa open daily.”

Kyker founded Jesus House, a nonprofit ministry helping the needy, with a men’s transitional home and food kitchen, in 2008 with his wife, Laura Kyker.

 • 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: October 31, 2013


SYRIA - Syria has always been a puzzle to the household of God, ever since the Almighty coined its capital, Damascus, “the city of my joy!” (Jer. 49:25 KJV).In its modern history, the government of Syria allied itself with two anti-Western powers: the Soviet Union, from 1956 until the fall of the U.S.S.R.; and Iran, from 1979 until present. Yet during these two periods, and because of its secular type of government, the people of Syria enjoyed a religious freedom unmatched elsewhere in the Arab world. Churches flourished. The hand of God used that very setup—though an unfavorable geopolitical reality for the West—to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ beyond the Iron Curtain and through the even tougher curtain of the Ayatollah’s Iran. During the U.S.S.R. era, Russian military and their families bought tens of thousands of Russian-language Bibles from the Bible Society bookstores across Syria. These bookstores have also helped meet the demands of Iranian tourists and visitors for Persian Bibles.

CLICK HERE to read more.




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

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Teichert Prayer Letter for October

Karl and Jenny Teichert are serving the Lord as missionaries with OC Africa, in South Africa. They moved to Johannesburg in November, 1997 with their four children; Ann, Scott, Stephen and John. Karl serves as the Southern Africa Director of the Southern Africa Regional Team. Their vision is to see a healthy, Bible-based church established in every un-reached village and community in South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia and beyond. Their strategy is to partner with key African church leaders to research, train, and mobilize the body of Christ to complete the Great Commission. They are striving to equip local leaders in Southern Africa to reach their nations for Christ and send missionaries into other countries as well.

October Letter ...
 
Dear family and friends, I have just recently finished half of my tenth grade year. I am attending a private Christian school called The King’s School in Johannesburg, South Africa. This year my grade had the opportunity to have some amazing experiences. We recently got to go on an outing to a prison. This was an eye-opening occasion seeing the prisoners and how they live and act. It was also a good reminder to be wise with the choices that I make and with the people I come across.

I have also been enjoying my art class. We have just finished painting self-portraits of ourselves and are now starting on sculptures of our heads. This has been fun and I have learned a lot about using different mediums and techniques. I hope to study something in the future related to art.

In the next few days I hope to start playing on the cricket team. I have been really involved in soccer but the season has now ended. I think it will be great to start up again with cricket since it has been a while since I have played.
Thank you so much for all of your prayers and support. I have a lot of really great friends and I love living here in South Africa.

Love,

John


OC Africa is an interdenominational ministry committed to developing, equipping, and mobilizing church leaders to multiply healthy, Bible-based churches in every community in Southern Africa and the world. OC is a faith-based mission who depends on the Lord to provide committed, financial supporters and partners. The contributions from these individuals help generate ministry opportunities around the world, impact missionaries and their global work, and provide a means for the International Mobilization Center to function. CLICK HERE to learn how YOU can be a part of mobilizing church leaders around the world by donating to OC.

In the News ... "Midland Christian School Sees Success with Challenge Day"

Tatum Guinn, Reporter
KOSA-TV


MIDLAND, TEXAS - Midland - It's a program that local school officials say is breaking down barriers and unifying students; that's why they keep bringing it back.

Midland Christian School first brought challenge day to the Permian Basin two years ago.

From the beginning as students are greeted, energy is high at Challenge Day.


 • 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: October 30, 2013


LEBANON - In a part of the world that is often characterized as patriarchal, the Presbyterian church in Lebanon, a part of the National Evangelical Synod of Syria and Lebanon, has certainly affirmed the calls and gifts of women.

Najla Kassab is director of the synod’s Christian education department. She is the first woman to become a licensed preacher in her church, a step towards ordination as a minister. A wife and mother of three, she oversees the teaching ministries in the synod’s 38 congregations and also administers the year-round seminars and retreats held at the synod’s conference center in the mountains north of Beirut.

CLICK HERE to read more.




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

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Word from Uganda: "Catching Up, Pt. 3"

Missionary teacher Natalie Rolfe writes, "'When He calls me, I will answer ... I'll be somewhere working for my Lord.' My call was Mbale, Uganda and that is where I have returned to serve for another year. Specifically, I am teaching phonics at Lulwanda Children's Home, an orphanage and school for 90 kids." Natalie also keeps an online journal of her service at the weblog, When He calls me, I will answer ...

Catching Up, Pt. 3

There were so many events happening this summer. Here are a few more.


 • CLICK HERE to read the rest of Natalie's post

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 Davud Psalm


"God, come close. Come quickly!
Open your ears—it’s my voice you’re hearing!
Treat my prayer as sweet incense rising;
my raised hands are my evening prayers.”


Psalm 141:1-2, The Message by Eugene Peterson


A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Intercessor,

The Faces of Children prayer group will meet this coming Wednesday, October 30, 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. Pleasae join us for prayer and, afterwards, for lunch ($5) and fellowship.


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.

Grace and Peace,

Chris

In the News ... "Mayor honors Family Promise of Midland"

Rachael Gleason, Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Mayor Wes Perry proclaimed this week in honor of Family Promise of Midland for helping homelessness “one family at a time.”

With the support of 18 local church congregations, the nonprofit offers housing and counseling services to help families eventually transition into regular housing.

 • 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: October 29, 2013


ISRAEL/PALESTINE/JERUSALEM (continued) - Most of us are familiar with the story of Jesus feeding the multitude, how a seemingly insignificant amount, given to Christ, fed more than 5,000 with 12 baskets left over. This miracle of giving, blessing, and abundant result continues.

In 1995 the Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb transformed an area underneath his church into the International Center of Bethlehem. Today it is part of a larger group known as the Diyar Consortium.

CLICK HERE to read more.




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

Monday, October 28, 2013

Midland Group Offers "Prayer Band That Started a Revolution"

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

Issued by ChinaAid ...

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

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

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

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

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

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

 • CLICK HERE to order a China Prayer Band

West Texas Mission Opportunities:Upward Basketball & Cheerleading

There are some for whom the word "mission" conjures up images of travels to the far side of the world for extended periods of time ... but that is NOT always the case. There are opportunities going on in your community - right here, right now - that have a genuine need for someone with exactly your skills, and exactly your schedule. One is Upward Basketball & Cheerleading, which kicks-off its 2012 season in West Texas, in just a couple of months - though registration is under way NOW.

Upward introduces children to Jesus Christ by creating opportunities to serve through sports. Upward is a fun, reliable, passionate and encouraging sports experience for boys and girls, in K5 through sixth grade. Upward provides first class, organized and detailed sports programming. Unique aspects of Upward include an evaluation system that promotes equal and competitive teams as well as a substitution system which allows for equal playing time for all participants.Through Upward, children are exposed to quality coaching and sport development. Upward emphasizes character and integrity instead of a “win at all costs” mentality associated with today’s sports world.

And, NO, you don't have to be a member of a church in order to participate!

There are all kinds of ways you can help the Upward program in your community ... all kinds of ways you can become a West Texas Missioner. You can be a coach, or an assistant, a referee or a timekeeper. You may also choose to present a brief devotional to the audience during the halftimes, while the teams are resting and getting ready for the next round of play. Your focus can be current events, a piece of Scripture from the Bible, or sports. You can compose your own, or work from guidelines that participating churches will provide you.

You can also help by signing-up your child, then heading to the game and cheering for everyone on the floor!

In Midland, there are programs at First Baptist Church
(basketball only) and First Presbyterian Church.

In Odessa, there are programs at First Baptist Church and Second Baptist Church.

In Big Spring, there is a program at First Baptist Church (basketball only).

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).

A David Psalm


"God, come close. Come quickly!
Open your ears—it’s my voice you’re hearing!
Treat my prayer as sweet incense rising;
my raised hands are my evening prayers.”


Psalm 141:1-2, The Message by Eugene Peterson


A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Intercessor,

The Faces of Children prayer group will meet this coming Wednesday, October 30, 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. Pleasae join us for prayer and, afterwards, for lunch ($5) and fellowship.


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.

Grace and Peace,

Chris

In the News ... "Church for the Homeless Serving Breakfast on Sundays"

Staff Report
KOSA-TV


MIDLAND, TEXAS - A church that reaches out to the homeless is now working to meet another need.

Church Under the Bridge Midland is now serving breakfast on Sundays.


 • 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: October 28, 2013


ISRAEL/PALESTINE/JERUSALEM (continued) - In 1965 a newly ordained Melkite Catholic priest returned to Biram, his home village in the Upper Galilee, which Zionist troops evacuated in 1948 and later destroyed as they established the State of Israel. Elias Chacour found little left of his childhood home except a surviving fig tree. He recalled his father’s words: “The Jews and Palestinians are blood brothers. We must never forget that.” Moving to the Mount of Beatitudes, he meditated on Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. He left convinced that if he was to be a true servant of God and people, his first calling was to be a peacemaker.

CLICK HERE to read more.




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

Sunday, October 27, 2013

In the News ... "The Salvation Army needs you!"

By Laura Dennis, Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Many churches are preparing for fall festivals or are wrapping one up this weekend.

Salvation Army leaders are looking past Halloween — all the way to Christmas. The non-profit is in desperate need of volunteers.

That need could be filled by Odessa churches.

Odessa Salvation Army Lt. Joe Contreras mailed 173 letters Friday to Odessa churches and another 50 to local businesses.

What does he want?

 • read the rest of this story 


In the News ... "Churches rake in the fall with festivals, worship services"


Staff Report
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - If you’re looking for fall fun for the whole family then Odessa churches have you covered.

 • 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: October 27, 2013


MINUTE FOR MISSION: REFORMATION SUNDAY - On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the All Saints’ Church in Wittenberg, Germany. Church historians identify his act as the spark that ignited the Protestant Reformation.

Today, more than 750 Reformed communities with millions of Christians are scattered worldwide, proclaiming in word and deed the good news of God’s irresistible grace and mercy through Jesus Christ.

CLICK HERE to read more.




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

Saturday, October 26, 2013

In the News ... "‘Clean comedian’ Elijah Tindall to perform at Midland church"

Ragini Venkatasubban, Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS -
Though self-described “clean comedian” Elijah Tindall is inspired by his Christian faith, he said he doesn’t fit into the category of “Christian comedian.”

“My jokes aren’t like, ‘Jesus jokes,’” he said. “I don’t have church bits. The stuff I do works just as well in West Hollywood as it does on a Sunday morning. The content is family-based, experience-based, observational lifestyle comedy. It helps connect generations together.”

Tindall, who hails from Southern California, will visit Midland next week to perform for the single adults ministry at First Baptist Church. The show will be held at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 1 in the fellowship hall of First Baptist Church, 2104 W. Louisiana Ave. Admission is $7. Free child care is provided. To register, email singles@fbc-midland.org

 • 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: October 26, 2013


ISRAEL/PALESTINE/JERUSALEM - In 2002 Pal Craftaid established a relationship with the Rawdat El-Zuhur School in Palestinian East Jerusalem. While the school admits both Christian and Muslim students, it is based on Christian principles and led by Christian Palestinians. It is an oasis in East Jerusalem amid the Israeli military occupation, checkpoints, and separation walls. Approximately 220 children, nursery through sixth grade, attend Rawdat. Many others are not admitted for lack of space.

Rawdat El-Zuhur uses the curriculum provided by the Palestinian Ministry of Education but enhances it with English and French, computer skills, music and dance, and a period of dialogue each day that encourages children to express themselves and trains them in using democratic processes. The partnership with Pal Craftaid supports these enhancements.

CLICK HERE to read more.




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

Friday, October 25, 2013

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: October 25, 2013


EGYPT (continued) - Psalm 11:3 asks what we do in times of crisis: “If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?”

Egypt has experienced a dramatic shift as a result of the revolution of January 25, 2011. Many of the Egyptian people feel they lost their foundations. Their sense of security has vanished, their trust in solid beliefs is shaken, and their dreams of a better future for themselves and their children are in question. The outcomes of the revolution have differed from what was expected, leaving moderate Egyptians with a sense of dissatisfaction.

For Egyptian Christians, who represent a large minority, these feelings are intensified.

CLICK HERE to read more.




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

Thursday, October 24, 2013

In the News ... "Housing Crisis in Midland Raises the Homeless Population in MISD"

Sarah Strackhouse, Reporter
KOSA-TV


MIDLAND, TEXAS - Homeless students are identified as either living in a shelter, with another family in what's called "doubling up," or living in a motel, hotel, RV, car, etc.

Kaye Bolinger with Midland Independent School District says there are 394 homeless students in the district in their program. The program gives students help such as food, clothing, utilities, immunizations, mentoring, uniforms, tutoring.

Ronda Childers with Family Promise says that when she first moved to the area, she was homeless. Her and her husband had to live with family members until they could find other arrangements. Some cases may be more extreme than others, but she says it happens all the time.

 • 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: October 24, 2013


UNITED NATIONS DAY / EGYPT - With few words to paint a picture, little can be seen. Yet perhaps these three simple strokes of the brush, like three small loaves in the hands of the Master, will be enough to guide you as you seek to know and support the church in the Middle East in this time of rapid change and development.

Pray first for the witness and effectiveness of Christ-followers as they serve in society. Historically, Orthodox, Catholics, and Protestants have formed a divided minority and been a conflicting witness in the context of a Muslim majority. However, in these days of the Arab Spring, there is evidence that habits of disrespectful engagement are dying. Cooperation is on the rise, especially in meetings for prayer and as ecumenical Christian groups make grassroots attempts to assist and direct politicians while new governments are forming and old laws and social systems are being reformed.

CLICK HERE to read more.




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

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Faces of Children: Special Prayer Request

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 message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Dear Faces of Children Intercessor,

I received an urgent prayer request from one of our prayer partners and said I would pass it along.

Thank you for praying for the children and staff in this dangerous situation.


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.

Grace and Peace,

Chris


Please keep the children and staff of an orphanage in Port Au Prince held close in prayer as they face immediate threat of eviction by people intent on taking the property illegally and by force. A network of counterfeit land title people, backed by allegedly corrupt judges and government officials, are trying to extort money from everyone in the neighborhood. Many in the area have negotiated with these thugs and have paid to keep their property.
Pray God will provide Jacques and Marie, the rightful property and orphanage owners, a way through this difficult and dangerous situation. Pray God’s wisdom will guide Jacques and Marie and that God’s peace will calm their hearts. Pray God will comfort the children at this orphanage and also bring them peace.
Pray God will surround the children and staff with a hedge of protection from the evil that threatens to displace them.
Please pray the hearts of those with the authority to help the children in this orphanage will soften towards them.
Pray for the network of people threatening the children and staff at this orphanage…that God will be at work cleansing the evil from their hearts and minds.

BACKGROUND:

Here is an excerpt from the email if you would like more information:

Chris

We have an urgent prayer need. I am sending you a letter from Jacques the pastor and owner of the orphanage in Port Au Prince. It will explain a grave situation going on with our orphanage. We are asking for prayer for this situation and suggestions from our church family that we might do to shine light on what's going on over there.

Cheryl
Jeremiah 29:11

We need prayers desperately!"I am writing this to you this afternoon to share with you a very dangerous situation I am facing with the children's orphanage and Bible school. I prayed and tried everything to avoid this urgent need, but I have no other choice because our orphanage, Bible school, & sewing school ministries are in danger of being wiped out. Those two ministries are in peril. Bulldozers may come at any time to destroy everything we have built, and kick us out with the children.

There is a network of land title counterfeit people having the back up of corrupted judges in Croix des Bouquets. These people are accompanied with lawyers, armed thugs and mobs claiming they own most of the land in the Clercine area.This network is sponsored by people in high places in the current government. With the help of corrupted judges, they ransom everyone in the neighbourhood, forcing them to pay if they want to keep their properties or lands. Many people have negotiated with them. One of them asked for $10,000.00 to leave us alone, while others are telling me that I must buy back the land "from" them. We have our authentic titles, but they do not care. I told them that not only do I not have that kind of money, but I will not pay a penny as a ransom from the small fund we have for the ministries and the children to anyone. They threaten me that they are coming soon this week or next to evict us all.

I am working with the Lord. I know he can save me and the children from the jaws of those powerful and corrupted thugs. I spoke with President Michel Martelly's father in law Mr. Charles Saint-Remy. He is not interested in helping us, and expects me to negotiate with those thugs. I am under the strong impression that the president and his wife are not aware of those terrible and inhumane abuses by people in their government. The threat and the dangers against me and the children are real.

These thugs have already demolished part of the wall for a lot which was purchased to build a house to care for 50-100 children. They are coming tomorrow or Tuesday to bring down the rest of the wall for the lot and, in the week to come, to kick all of us out of the orphanage unless we comply with their demands. In this dark hour, if not the darkest hour in my missionary life especially because of the orphanage, I call upon you, God’s people and ministry partners to cover me with mantle of prayers to help me face this moment. As you pray for me, if there is a possibility for you to write or give a phone call to some people who can put some pressure on the government, make this public, please do so. Marie and I and the children need YOU OUR PARTNERS, GOD’S PEOPLE more than ever before. May HIS will be done on earth as it is in heaven."

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: October 23, 2013


TURKEY - The earthquake in Van, Turkey, on October 23, 2011, and subsequent small earthquakes resulted in the deaths of about 700 people and left around 60,000 homeless. The scope of the disaster was overwhelming, and the cold winter weather added to the suffering of the people.

Though the Protestant church of Turkey is small in number, God placed it on the hearts of the Alliance of Turkish Evangelical Churches (TEK) to assist in the relief efforts. They set up a coordination center in cooperation with the church of Van and organized several teams to address needs.

CLICK HERE to read more.




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

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Word from Uganda: "Catching Up, Pt. 2"

Missionary teacher Natalie Rolfe writes, "'When He calls me, I will answer ... I'll be somewhere working for my Lord.' My call was Mbale, Uganda and that is where I have returned to serve for another year. Specifically, I am teaching phonics at Lulwanda Children's Home, an orphanage and school for 90 kids." Natalie also keeps an online journal of her service at the weblog, When He calls me, I will answer ...

Catching Up, Pt. 2

And the fun of the summer continues ...


 • CLICK HERE to read the rest of Natalie's post