Friday, February 18, 2011

In the News ... "Religious art graces Ellen Noël"

Religious art graces Ellen Noël
By Georgia Temple
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

ODESSA, TEXAS - Retablos, santos, crucifixes and altar pieces grace the Ellen Noël Art Museum in the exhibition "The Art of Devotion: Latin American Religious Art from the Collection of the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts."

"They are influenced by the Spanish baroque art forms, which were inherited when conquistadors and especially the monks came over and brought these images with them," said Les Reker, director of the Ellen Noël Art Museum. "The monks would make images of the saints basically to teach Bible stories. The monks weren't necessarily trained in art, but they remembered some of the forms they brought over."

"What we have in this collection are folk art that come after that and are made by Native Americans who converted to Catholicism — the Incas and the Aztecs, and we're talking about not just Mexico but going down to South America. But the images we have are primarily Mexican."

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

In the News ... "Pastor's dream becomes church-wide campaign to benefit Midland"

Pastor's dream becomes church-wide campaign to benefit Midland
By Tim Walker
Senior Pastor
First United Methodist Church - Midland

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Have you ever experienced a prompting by God that you couldn't let go? You think about it. You create a list of the pros and cons. When you make a list of "reasons why this is not a good idea," it does not diminish the sound of the voice in your heart."

"Sometime in the spring of 2010, I experienced a prompting by God that I couldn't let go. It just hung on. It wasn't a loud voice booming from the heavens. It wasn't even a specific Scripture, though I am sure Scripture informed the prompting. It was one of those strong nudges from the Holy Spirit for our people to do something wonderful for the city of Midland"

CLICK HERE to read the rest of Pastor Walker's column in the Midland Reporter-Telegram

Thursday, February 17, 2011

EPCAT-USA February Newsletter

ECPAT International is a global network of organisations and individuals working together for the elimination of child prostitution, child pornography and the trafficking of children for sexual purposes. It seeks to encourage the world community to ensure that children everywhere enjoy their fundamental rights free and secure from all forms of commercial sexual exploitation.

This Newsletter is All About Partnerships

WITNESS - EPCAT-USA announces a new partnership with WITNESS, the international human rights organization that trains human rights defenders to strategically use video to change practices, policies and laws. Together, we are producing a 12 to 18-minute advocacy video to protect sexually-exploited children from criminalization in the U.S. It is a grave human rights abuse that most states allow the justice system to treat trafficked children as criminal offenders rather than giving them the support and protection they need as victims. Currently, only four states have changes their approach by passing laws that we call "safe harbor" laws. These laws require that the children found in the sex trade be referred for protective services instead of prosecuted. With training and support from WITNESS, this video advocacy campaign supports EPCAT-USA in its work to get strong, protective "safe harbor" legislation passed in the rest of the states.

LEND A HAND CAMPAIGN - The ongoing global economic crisis could have far-reaching social effects for children worldwide. As many face financial hardship, the risk of trafficking children for sexual purposes increases. To address these concerns, beauty retailer The Body Shop USA, the Somaly Mam Foundation and EPCAT-USA are joining hands to raise awareness and resources to help keep the world's children free from trafficking. Please lend a hand ... here's how:
Sign the Petition Calling on Government to Protect Children.
Visit The Body Shop USA location near you and purshase Soft Hands Kind Heart Hand Cream. The Body Shop will donate a portion of each purchase to EPCAT-USA.
Educate yourself and tell your friends. The more people who understand the issue, the more hand will be joined in ending trafficking. Use our website resources and your own ingenuity to find out more about the problem.

TIANA STAR - Up and coming singer-songwriter Tiana Star has written and recorded a song for, "I Am My Own," EPCAT-USA. Half the proceeds support EPCAT-USA's work. You can buy it on iTunes online.

ATEST COALITION - EPCAT-USA proudly joins the Alliance to End Slavery and Trafficking (ATEST). The coalition's PSA went up in Times Square last week.


TASSATAG - This prestige luggage tag is big, bright and fair trade. It helps you find your luggage, and also makes you a visible supporter of the campaign against child sex tourism. Travelers Take Actions Against Sex Slavery and Trafficking www.tassatag.org

Faces of Children: Prayer Requests

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

Prayer Concerns for the week of 2/16/11

Australia
Please pray for the children and people of Australia’s Queensland state as they recover from severe flooding that left the state capital of Brisbane looking like a war zone. Also pray for those in the Toowoomba and Lockyer Valley regions, west of the capital, who lost homes, businesses, and schools in flooding caused by heavy rains.
A report from Reuters/alertnet
Pray for those affected by Tropical Cyclone Yasi, a massive tropical storm that struck North Queensland on February 2. This powerful storm, on the scale of Hurricane Katrina, was the largest to hit Australia since Europeans first settled there.
A report from The Guardian
A report from CNN

Ivory Coast, Liberia
Please keep the displaced children of the Ivory Coast held close in prayer as they are at great risk of sexual exploitation or recruitment by armed forces following the disputed presidential elections in November 2010. Pray for the 30,000 who have been displaced and crossed into Liberia and for the 18,000 who are internally displaced. More than 75 percent of these groups are children and women.
Please pray for the safety of children living in refugee camps and IDP (internally displaced person) camps. Pray they will have access to health care and education. Pray that children who have been separated from their parents will find protection and a safe haven. Pray that they might be reunited with their parents.
Pray for a peaceful resolution to the political crisis in the Ivory Coast. Pray for an end to the political violence and for physical and emotional healing of all involved.
A report from Reuters/alertnet
Another report from Reuters/alertnet

Kenya (Naomi’s Village naomisvillage.com )
Pray for the children that have come to live at Naomi’s Village in Kenya … for 6-month-old Tony, 7-year-old Millicent, 5-year-old Stella, 4-year-old Kevin, 5-year-old Mary, 9-year-old Evelyne, 9-year-old Mary, 8-year-old Zakayo, 3-year-old John, 9-year-old Paul, 6-year-old Dennis, and Joshua. Pray for healing for Joshua and Stella as they have been running fever and coughing. Pray that the rest of the children won’t catch this illness.
Please continue to be in prayer for the staff and volunteers with Naomi’s Village as they bring more children into the new orphanage. Pray for discernment and God’s guidance as they make difficult decisions. Pray for the children God is bringing to Naomi’s Village.

Pakistan
Pray for children and people in Pakistan who remain homeless more than six months after devastating flooding destroyed or damaged their homes. Last July, monsoon floods inundated more than a fifth of Pakistan, killing 2,000 and affecting more than 18 million people. Pray for adequate shelter for the estimated 850,000 people who are without it this winter season. Pray that humanitarian aid will reach those living in makeshift camps and shelters.
A report from Reuters/alertnet

United States
Give God thanks and praise that 14-year-old Elizabeth is doing so well following her health scare several months ago. Thanks be to God that the lesions on her hands and the fever dissipated after a week and thank God that her heart is doing exceptionally well. Please continue to keep this special needs young woman in prayer as she will most always have long-term fatigue from genetic abnormalities that affected her brain development. Pray for Elizabeth’s family as they negotiate the chronic day-to-day struggles that sometimes seem harder than periods of acute care.
A report from caringbridge.org
Pray for parents who make poor decisions that endanger the lives of their children. Pray for those who ignore travel warnings and continue to drive in blizzard conditions or remain in their snowbound cars instead of staying in shelters. Pray for emergency rescue workers and volunteers whose lives are also endangered by the lack of common sense of these parents.

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.

In the News ... "State of Texas Says Bible Class Can't Be Taught Straight from the Bible"

State of Texas Says Bible Class Can't Be Taught Straight from the Bible
Anayeli Ruiz
Reporter
KWES-TV


BIG SPRING, TEXAS - Controversy at the Big Spring High School over an elective Bible class. The state says the teacher can't teach straight from the Bible. Students will have to use a textbook instead. That's fired up a local group whose been paying for the class.
CLICK HERE to read/view the rest of the KWES story.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

National Prayer Breakfast-Midland Set for Tomorrow


2011 National Prayer Breakfast Midland
Thursday, February 17 at 7:00 am at Midland Center

Each February the people of the Permian Basin come together in prayer for our nation and it's leaders. This year in addition to music, scripture reading and prayer by area officials, pastors and citizens, our guest speaker will be Jim Denison, founder of the Center for Informed Faith.

Tickets are $7.00 each and available at Mardel, First Baptist Church, First Presbyterian Church, First Methodist Church, St. Ann's Catholic Church and St. Stephens Catholic Church until February 15, 2011. They will be available at the door on February 17, 2011. For more information please call (432) 686-4300 or go to www.npbmidland.org/

In the News ... "Stonegate to start morning, evening service schedule"

Stonegate to start morning, evening service schedule
By Meagan Lee Buck
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Many members of Stonegate Fellowship will be changing their routines Sunday when the church transitions from three services to four.

With 3,500 active members and a 6-year-old auditorium that seats 1,300, church staff said the only Sunday morning service that wasn't too full was at 8:30 a.m.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Reports From Lulwanda: January, 2011

Every month, Lulwanda Administrator Edward Mukiibi provides an update on Lulwanda Children's Home in Uganda – how the children are growing and learning, how the staff is developing, and any ongoing needs that may arise.

January, 2011

"As we go into our seventh year of operation, we continue to look forward with optimism trusting the God of the universe to continue the work that Himself started seven years ago through different individuals who have made us what we are today. Thank you and many blessings as you continue to serve in different areas He has called you to serve."

"Our children continue to grow and get involved in every home activities. Individually and collectively their needs are handled by the staff members who have helped us to care for the children to the best of our ability. Socially they continue to relate with one another as a family brother/sister and actively participate in all home activities with a lot of enthusiasm. Discipline continues to be of paramount importance to us and is critically examined and enforced. However we are mindful of creating a favorable environment for all to flourish to their full potential."
CLICK HERE to read the rest of Mukiibi's January, 2011 report.

Word from Uganda: "Prayer Request"

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 ...

Prayer Request

"* PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS are set to be held on February 18. Please pray peace over the nation of Uganda and that there would be a fair election. Pray for peace and acceptance for whatever the outcome of the election may be.”

CLICK HERE to read the rest of Natalie's post


If you are interested in supporting LCH by sponsoring one of the 90 children, go to www.ugandaorphans.org If you are interested in financially supporting Natalie in her mission, you can send checks (with "Natalie Rolfe" in memo) to: Midland Bible Church, 2800 North A Street, Midland, TX 79705

In the News ... "A party about purity"

A party about purity
Gabriella Lopez
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Crowds of young people, glow sticks and a multicolored light show made an unusual forum to discuss purity and abstinence, but young people came from as far as Lubbock to see the performance at CrossRoads Fellowship in Odessa.

“It’s really interesting,” 15-year-old Presley Miller said. “It helps you understand the consequences (of premarital sex).”

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

Monday, February 14, 2011

Midland Group Reports Chinese House Church Raided, Shut Down

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.

Midland Group Reports Chinese House Church Raided, Shut Down

Released by ChinaAid, January, 2011 ...

"ZHONGZHUANG, CHINA – A house church in coastal Jiangsu province that has been meeting for many years was raided by local religious affairs officials and forced to shut down, ChinaAid has learned."
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

Invitation to Prayer

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

"Prayers for Work and Creativity"

""Dear God,

Before I go to work today, please lift my mind to the realm of Truth.
May I remember and not forget throughout the day that my only work is to love, for your sake, that the world might be renewed.
I think of my workplace-the people, the circumstances, the situations - and I surrender them to you.
I remember, Lord, that this is but a veil across a truer truth.
I withdraw my judgments, my interpretations, my agendas.
I ask only to be a healing force.
This business is but a front for a temple, a healing place where all shall be lifted above the insanity of a frightened world.
So may it be that I contribute to this healing, to this upliftment, with my efforts and my resources.
And that is all I ask.

Dear God,

Send your angels to every person at my workplace, to every person who will come there today and forever.
If I am tempted to judge or criticize anyone, please heal me of my limited vision.
May I see only the truth.
May I work from integrity and excellence and full force of your power within me, that I may know my true strength and contribute it to this world.
May my presence at work be a blessing on others and on myself.
Thank you, God, for showing me the way now and forever.
Thank you. Amen."

Illuminata By Marianne Williamson

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,

When I read this prayer, it brought to mind my office, deep within the administrative offices of a church, and the people with whom I spend my weekdays. Even if you don't work in an office, you can make this prayer your own. Think about the work in which you are involved every day. Is it a traditional job with a paycheck every couple of weeks; or commission or hourly work? Perhaps you are retired and your "work" is more volunteer-oriented. Or maybe you are unemployed right now and your "work" is seeking work. Perhaps you are a student and work to learn a profession or vocation. Or do you work from home raising a family or a start up business or both? Maybe your "work" is recovering from surgery or illness.

Did you know that when you pray for children, you are doing some very hard work in God's Kingdom? Praying for children isn't easy, you know that. There are so many devastating issues and situations that affect and involve children that it's easy to become overwhelmed. Staying focused in prayer for hurting children requires courage and strength and patience and hard work. Thank you for taking on this challenging work day after day. You are a blessing indeed!

I hope you will be able to join us on Wednesday, Februuary 16, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride’s Room at
First Presbyterian Church, Midland, where, together, we will tackle this challenging work of praying for children. We will have fellowship and lunch ($5) after our prayer gathering.

If you have prayer concerns or celebrations about children at risk, those who care for them, have authority over them, or, yes, even those who harm them, please send them to me at at
claufer@facesofchildren.net, or give me a call. Thank you for your prayers for the children of our community and world.

Thanks be to God for the gift of prayer work,

Chris

Stephen Ministry: Gifted to Care



"Are you looking for a new way to use your spiritual gifts," asks First Presbyterian Church-Midland. "Please pray about and consider Stephen Ministry, our congregation's one-to-one care-giving ministry."

A training class for new Stephen Ministers will begin Tuesday, February 15, 2011. To learn more about this ministry of caring, please contact Mary Margaret Davis, (432) 684-7821, extension 120.

In the News ... Breakfast to focus prayers on local, national, world leaders

Breakfast to focus prayers on local, national, world leaders
By Sarah Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - The Rev. Jim Denison, former First Baptist Church pastor, will be returning to West Texas to speak at the third annual National Prayer Breakfast - Midland, which is planned for 7 a.m. Thursday at Midland Center.

Denison, who founded the Center for Informed Faith "to provide resources for the global Christian movement," said he will be speaking about what he calls the "Fifth Great Awakening."

"There are more people coming to Christ than at any time in Christian history," Denison said. "How can we see in America what we see happening in South Korea, China, Africa, Cuba and the rest of the world?"

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Sunday, February 13, 2011

You mean you STILL haven't Gotten Your Sweetheart Something for Valentine's Day ?!?!


There's still time to order-up flowers or sweets for your sweet ... but you have to act NOW. An added benefit ... buy your Valentine's Day gift through causes.com , and you'll also be donating $10 to your favorite charity. That includes ECPAT-USA and its mission to "End Child Prostitution, Child Pornography and Trafficking of Children for Sexual Purposes."

CLICK HERE for details

Saturday, February 12, 2011

Traveling Mission

A TassaTag is a 4” x 6” bright, heavy, hand-woven cotton luggage tag that helps you spot your luggage more easily while reclaiming children's lives. It is practical, environmentally sensitive, fair trade, and with it you can make a difference.

With a TassaTag you support
ECPAT-USA. This is a non-profit children's rights organization whose mission is to protect all children from commercial sexual exploitation, and is the US Chapter of Thailand-based ECPAT (End Child Prostitution and Trafficking) International, working at the community, national and international levels.

With a TassaTag you support The Regina Center in Nong Khai, Thailand, which provides education and income generating skills and opportunities for women. All proceeds from sales are returned to the producers. The project enables women to stay in their villages and keep their children in school, which are two major strategies in reducing sex trafficking.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this project
CLICK HERE to learn more about sex slavery and trafficking
CLICK HERE to order TassaTags

With a TassaTag you will be part of the ECPAT project by increasing the recognition of the TassaTag logo as a symbol against the sexual slavery and trafficking of children, raising greater awareness of this major illegal trade around the world, and being a voice positively addressing a serious children's rights issue.

Stephen Ministry: Gifted to Care



"Are you looking for a new way to use your spiritual gifts," asks First Presbyterian Church-Midland. "Please pray about and consider Stephen Ministry, our congregation's one-to-one care-giving ministry."

A training class for new Stephen Ministers will begin Tuesday, February 15, 2011. To learn more about this ministry of caring, please contact Mary Margaret Davis, (432) 684-7821, extension 120.

In the News ... "Bethlehem Baptist to install new pastor"

Bethlehem Baptist to install new pastor
Lyxan Toldanes
Staff Writer
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Bethlehem Baptist Church members have finally found a new pastor who they hope will fill the void left after the church’s founder, the Rev. R.S. Sutton, died on Thanksgiving 2009. The Rev. Ray Hicks, who has preached at Bethlehem Baptist since November, will be installed Sunday as the church’s senior pastor.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

Friday, February 11, 2011

A Quick Word from PC-USA

From Presbyterian Church (USA) - "God comes to us in free and undeserved favor in the person of Jesus Christ who lived, died, and rose for us that we might belong to God and serve Christ in the world. Following Jesus, Presbyterians are engaged in the world and in seeking thoughtful solutions to the challenges of our time."


A Quick Word ...

Seven of the Native American churches that Rev. Cook built in the late 1800s still serve Presbytery of the Grand Canyon: http://cot.ag/hjwCGB

Word from West Texas: "Duck Butts"

In August, 2008, John P. Van Dusen and his wife moved from Fort Collins, Colorado, to West Texas, to help build The Bridge,a contemporary worship service in a new space in a traditional Protestant church.

Duck Butts

John writes, "Faith is what brings me away from my apartment, down the hill, across the creek and along the trail to a pond created by a small dam. Like Adam trying to remember what Eden looked like, I come to this place seeking paradise lost. In summer the grasses are green and the cerulean pond smells of the riches of life."
CLICK HERE to read the rest of John's post at Into the West Texas Sun

Thursday, February 10, 2011

A Quick Word from PC-USA

From Presbyterian Church (USA) - "God comes to us in free and undeserved favor in the person of Jesus Christ who lived, died, and rose for us that we might belong to God and serve Christ in the world. Following Jesus, Presbyterians are engaged in the world and in seeking thoughtful solutions to the challenges of our time."


A Quick Word ...

Food for the soul: Georgia church’s ministry feeds local families, spurs community connections - http://cot.ag/eSgSap

Stephen Ministry: Gifted to Care



"Are you looking for a new way to use your spiritual gifts," asks First Presbyterian Church-Midland. "Please pray about and consider Stephen Ministry, our congregation's one-to-one care-giving ministry."

A training class for new Stephen Ministers will begin Tuesday, February 15, 2011. To learn more about this ministry of caring, please contact Mary Margaret Davis, (432) 684-7821, extension 120.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

A Quick Word from PC-USA

From Presbyterian Church (USA) - "God comes to us in free and undeserved favor in the person of Jesus Christ who lived, died, and rose for us that we might belong to God and serve Christ in the world. Following Jesus, Presbyterians are engaged in the world and in seeking thoughtful solutions to the challenges of our time."


A Quick Word ...

Survey finds one-fifth of PC(USA) churches involved in homeless ministries: http://cot.ag/hq666G

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

A Quick Word from PC-USA

From Presbyterian Church (USA) - "God comes to us in free and undeserved favor in the person of Jesus Christ who lived, died, and rose for us that we might belong to God and serve Christ in the world. Following Jesus, Presbyterians are engaged in the world and in seeking thoughtful solutions to the challenges of our time."


A Quick Word ...

Follow the Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study on Twitter at @MYB4Prayer and on Facebook: http://cot.ag/i4urXb

Invitation to Prayer

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

"Being Free from all Fear"

"Jesus came to us to help us overcome our fear of God. As long as we are afraid of God, we cannot love God. Love means intimacy, closeness, mutual vulnerability, and a deep sense of safety. But all of those are impossible as long as there is fear. Fear creates suspicion, distance, defensiveness, and insecurity.

The greatest block in the spiritual life is fear. Prayer, meditation, and education cannot come forth out of fear. God is perfect love, and as John the Evangelist writes, ‘Perfect love drives out fear’ (1 John 4:18). Jesus’ central message is that God loves us with an unconditional love and desires our love, free from all fear, in return."

Bread for the Journey By Henry Nouwen

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,

I’ve said this many times before, but it bears repeating. Every intercessor or prayer partner is lifted in prayer each Wednesday at the Faces of Children prayer group that meets at First Presbyterian Church in Midland. You are an important part of this ministry and we give thanks for your gifts, your compassion, and the love you shower on the children of God through your prayers. Thank you!

I hope you will be able to join us on Wednesday, Februuary 9, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride’s Room at
First Presbyterian Church, Midland, to lift the children of our world to God in prayer. We will have fellowship and lunch ($5) after our prayer gathering.

If you have prayer concerns or celebrations about children at risk, those who care for them, have authority over them, or, yes, even those who harm them, please send them to me at at
claufer@facesofchildren.net, or give me a call. Thank you for your prayers for the children of our community and world.

Giving God thanks for your gift of love through intercession,

Chris

National Prayer Breakfast-Midland Set for February 17


2011 National Prayer Breakfast Midland
Thursday, February 17 at 7:00 am at Midland Center

Each February the people of the Permian Basin come together in prayer for our nation and it's leaders. This year in addition to music, scripture reading and prayer by area officials, pastors and citizens, our guest speaker will be Jim Denison, founder of the Center for Informed Faith.

Tickets are $7.00 each and available at Mardel, First Baptist Church, First Presbyterian Church, First Methodist Church, St. Ann's Catholic Church and St. Stephens Catholic Church until February 15, 2011. They will be available at the door on February 17, 2011. For more information please call (432) 686-4300 or go to www.npbmidland.org/

Monday, February 7, 2011

A Quick Word from PC-USA

From Presbyterian Church (USA) - "God comes to us in free and undeserved favor in the person of Jesus Christ who lived, died, and rose for us that we might belong to God and serve Christ in the world. Following Jesus, Presbyterians are engaged in the world and in seeking thoughtful solutions to the challenges of our time."


A Quick Word ...

Future of the church: GA leaders invite all Presbyterians to join in conversation - www.pcusa.org/news

In the News ... Mission-minded pastor fills leadership roll at First Baptist-Midland"

Mission-minded pastor fills leadership roll at First Baptist-Midland
By Sarah Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - First Baptist pastor, the Rev. Randel Everett, sat in his new office, which was completely empty save a busy desk and a couple of chairs for visitors. The new pastor glanced at some cardboard boxes and dozens of lonely bookshelves lining the walls of the room. "In five or six years I'll have it done," he said with a smile.

But first, Everett, 61, has other things on his plate, or rather 7,000 — the number of active members at FBC. Though he accepted the call to be FBC's new pastor December 5 after filling in as interim pastor for almost six months, Everett and his wife, Sheila, just made the move to Midland January 20. His first Sunday as pastor was January 16.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Saturday, February 5, 2011

Rolling 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.

"Our mission is to transform lives through the gift of mobility to
the physically disabled poor in developing countries
as motivated by Jesus Christ.
Our vision is to provide 20 million wheelchairs."


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. For $51.29, you can give the gift of mobility. You can donate by mailing FWC, calling them, or visiting their website.

Free Wheelchair Mission
9341 Irvine Boulevard
Irvine, CA 92618

(800) 733-0858

www.freewheelchairmission.org/

In the News ... Catholic Charities offers free tax prep"

Catholic Charities offers free tax prep
Staff Report
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Catholic Charities of Odessa has scheduled free income-tax preparation for families making less than $48,000 a year.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

Friday, February 4, 2011

A Quick Word from PC-USA

From Presbyterian Church (USA) - "God comes to us in free and undeserved favor in the person of Jesus Christ who lived, died, and rose for us that we might belong to God and serve Christ in the world. Following Jesus, Presbyterians are engaged in the world and in seeking thoughtful solutions to the challenges of our time."


A Quick Word ...

Have you listened to the God's Mission Matters podcast yet? Download the recent episode at http://cot.ag/ek9soB

Gospel Bowl for God - TONIGHT

Gospel Bowl for God
Staff Report
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - While the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers may be gearing up and getting ready for the Super Bowl, ministers and pastors around Texas are doing a different kind of warm up for the Minister’s Gospel Bowl II, 7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The five-night event at 2121 E. Ninth St. will feature 15 ministers and pastors from Odessa, Midland, Lubbock, Amarillo and Dallas.

Friday: J. Johnson, Rev. Joe Freemon and Rev. Rob Watkins

In the News ... "Church uses volunteers to create local home makeover"

Church uses volunteers to create local home makeover
By Audrie Palmer
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - When an accident occurred last fall killing two parents and injuring their two daughters, members of Alamo Heights Baptist Church began praying for the family and the grandparents of the girls.

But then another need arose -- in order for the girls to come home with the grandparents, their house in Greenwood would need to be remodeled and expanded to provide adequate medical care the girls now require.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Thursday, February 3, 2011

A Quick Word from PC-USA

From Presbyterian Church (USA) - "God comes to us in free and undeserved favor in the person of Jesus Christ who lived, died, and rose for us that we might belong to God and serve Christ in the world. Following Jesus, Presbyterians are engaged in the world and in seeking thoughtful solutions to the challenges of our time."


A Quick Word ...

Northern Korean Christians feed most vulnerable; PC(USA), CWS help noodle factory and bakery supply orphans, elderly. More at http://cot.ag/hx4Y3h

A Moment of HOPE on Egypt's Troubled Streets

"A pic I took yesterday of Christians protecting Muslims during their prayers." Posted by @NevineZaki on Yfrog

Faces of Children: Prayer Requests

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

Prayer Concerns for the week of 2/2/11

Afghanistan
Please keep in prayer the girls and women of Afghanistan who
suffer from traditional practices like child marriages and honor
killings.
Pray that Afghan authorities will become more familiar with and enforce the 2009 Law on the elimination of Violence against Women. This law makes it illegal to sell or buy women for marriage; force women or girls into marriage; deny women and girls the right to an education, work, or access to health services.
Pray for girls who run away from home to escape these kinds of
situations and are arrested, jailed, and prosecuted for "moral crimes" although running away is not a crime.
A report from Reuters/alertnet.org



Brazil
Pray for the people of Brazil who have been affected by the heavy rains, flooding, and devastating mudslides that have plagued a scenic, mountainous region north of Rio de Janeiro. Pray for the families and friends of those who have been killed in what is one of Brazil's worst natural disasters on record. Authorities believe the death toll will reach 1,000. Pray for those who have lost their homes, livelihoods, and villages. Please pray that help will reach children and
adults trapped in remote regions.
A report from Reuters/alertnet.org
Another report from Reuters/alertnet.org

United States
Give thanks to God for the life of 14-year-old Ali Borgen who died last week after spending nearly a third of her brief life fighting an aggressive form of leukemia. Thanks be to God for her generous spirit and sunny nature despite the excruciating pain she experienced from vertebrae fractures that twisted her spine. Pray for Ali's parents, her brother Dylan, her grandparents, extended family, and friends as they mourn this courageous young woman. Pray that the funds Ali raised at her "Celebration of a Lifetime" party earlier this month will indeed help find a cure for childhood cancer.
A report from the Grand Forks Herald
Give thanks to God that 2-year-old Andrea's * recent check-up
showed she was doing well and making progress. Andrea was deprived of oxygen at birth for nine minutes and suffers multiple health problems as a result.
     • Thanks be to God that her hearing is good enough that she is beginning to talk even though she still uses sign language. And thank God that she is now able to take nourishment by mouth.
     • Please pray that Andrea will continue to progress and that her adoption will be finalized soon.
     • Pray for Andrea's foster parents as they navigate the adoption process and care for Andrea and her foster siblings.
* Name changed for confidentiality and/or protection
Give God thanks that 10-year-old Emily is free of the infection she contracted after having surgery to correct an extreme form of scoliosis. The rods implanted in her back and the spacers in her ribs need periodic surgical adjustments. Please keep this 10-year-old little girl held close in prayer as she undergoes further surgeries in the near future. Also give thanks to God that Emily is free of the anxiety attacks she was having at the doctor's office.
Pray for baby Lexi who was born two-and-a-half-months premature to young parents addicted to cocaine. Please pray for comfort and healing for this baby girl who is having seizures probably due to the drugs found in her system at birth. Pray for Lexi's father who was arrested and for her mother who is only allowed limited, supervised visitation because of continued drug use. Pray that God will provide loving and knowledgeable parents to raise this baby as she will probably have life-long physical, mental, and emotional challenges.

Faces of Children
Give thanks to God that Joanne, a friend of a Faces of Children intercessor, is improving following a major stroke earlier this month. Pray for Joanne's continued healing and pray that God will comfort her husband Toben and daughters, 12-year-old Audrey and 9-year-old Emma, as they go through this difficult recovery process with her. Thanks be to God for the supportive community of faith that surrounds this struggling family with prayers and love.
thesimplewife.typepad.com
Please keep Andrea William's family and friends held close in prayer as they mourn the death of this young mother and close friend of a Faces of Children prayer partner. Pray that God will bring comfort to her husband Jim and their children, 15-year-old Lauren, 12-year-old Zach, and 10-year-old Josh. Pray for the peace that surpasses all understanding to sustain them during this dark time. Give thanks to God for Andrea's life and for the gifts of love and friendship she shared with so many.
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.

Gospel Bowl for God - TONIGHT

Gospel Bowl for God
Staff Report
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - While the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers may be gearing up and getting ready for the Super Bowl, ministers and pastors around Texas are doing a different kind of warm up for the Minister’s Gospel Bowl II, 7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The five-night event at 2121 E. Ninth St. will feature 15 ministers and pastors from Odessa, Midland, Lubbock, Amarillo and Dallas.

Thursday: Rev. Arvin Medlock, Rev. Anthony Jackson and Rev. David Tunson, Jr.

In the News ... "American Boychoir to perform at St. Luke's UMC-Midland"

American Boychoir to perform at St. Luke's UMC-Midland
Staff Report
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - The American Boychoir will perform 7:30 p.m. Feb. 8 at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 3011 W. Kansas Ave. Admission is free and child care will be provided.

The choir’s stop in Midland is one of 21 shows scheduled during their 2011 Southwest Winter Tour through Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. Auditions for boys in grades three through six will be held after the concert.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

A Quick Word from PC-USA

From Presbyterian Church (USA) - "God comes to us in free and undeserved favor in the person of Jesus Christ who lived, died, and rose for us that we might belong to God and serve Christ in the world. Following Jesus, Presbyterians are engaged in the world and in seeking thoughtful solutions to the challenges of our time."


A Quick Word ...

Presbyterian Hunger Program encourages donor nations to address problems with trade policies, neglect. More at http://cot.ag/hObC4B

Tonight's Children's Choir, Gathering at First Prez-Midland Cancelled

"Due to the cold weather and slippery streets, all of this evening's Gathering activities have been cancelled. Please pass the word along to anyone you know who might have been planning to come tonight. We will miss the warmth of your fellowship but look forward to seeing you on a hopefully warmer Wednesday next week."

Gospel Bowl for God - TONIGHT

Gospel Bowl for God
Staff Report
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - While the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers may be gearing up and getting ready for the Super Bowl, ministers and pastors around Texas are doing a different kind of warm up for the Minister’s Gospel Bowl II, 7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The five-night event at 2121 E. Ninth St. will feature 15 ministers and pastors from Odessa, Midland, Lubbock, Amarillo and Dallas.

Wednesday: Strauss McCreayr, Rev. Michael Blackmon and Rev. Johnny Touchstone

In the News ... "Evangelist in town"

Evangelist in town
Staff Report
Odessa American

ODESSA/MIDLAND, TEXAS - San Angelo Bishop Michael Pfeifer has invited Australian evangelist and faith healer, Alan Ames to return to West Texas in February.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story.

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

A Quick Word from PC-USA

From Presbyterian Church (USA) - "God comes to us in free and undeserved favor in the person of Jesus Christ who lived, died, and rose for us that we might belong to God and serve Christ in the world. Following Jesus, Presbyterians are engaged in the world and in seeking thoughtful solutions to the challenges of our time."


A Quick Word ...

You can now keep up with the PC(USA) Mission Yearbook on Twitter! Follow @MYB4Prayer !


National Prayer Breakfast-Midland Set for February 17


2011 National Prayer Breakfast Midland
Thursday, February 17 at 7:00 am at Midland Center

Each February the people of the Permian Basin come together in prayer for our nation and it's leaders. This year in addition to music, scripture reading and prayer by area officials, pastors and citizens, our guest speaker will be Jim Denison, founder of the Center for Informed Faith.

Tickets are $7.00 each and available at Mardel, First Baptist Church, First Presbyterian Church, First Methodist Church, St. Ann's Catholic Church and St. Stephens Catholic Church until February 15, 2011. They will be available at the door on February 17, 2011. For more information please call (432) 686-4300 or go to www.npbmidland.org/

Gospel Bowl for God - TONIGHT

Gospel Bowl for God
Staff Report
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - While the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers may be gearing up and getting ready for the Super Bowl, ministers and pastors around Texas are doing a different kind of warm up for the Minister’s Gospel Bowl II, 7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The five-night event at 2121 E. Ninth St. will feature 15 ministers and pastors from Odessa, Midland, Lubbock, Amarillo and Dallas.

Tuesday: Rev. John Johnson, Rev. Pam Jackson and Rev. Brian Serrano

In the News ... "Skit Guys to bring spiritual comedy to First UMC-Midland"

Skit Guys to bring spiritual comedy to First UMC-Midland
By Georgia Temple
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - The football game just ended and two guys from very different crowds meet in the locker room. And then ... to know how the story ends ask The Skit Guys — Tommy Woodard and Eddie James — when they appear at First United Methodist Church - Midland Wednesday.

Woodard and James have been teaching God’s word using comedy, drama and whatever category talking action figures fit into for more than 20 years and recently released two new books through Zondervan called, “Instant Skits” and “Skits That Teach."

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story