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 ... "Pastor forms quick bond with new congregation"

By Sara Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - The Rev. James Auld came to Midland expecting to minister to the members of Alamo Heights Baptist Church, but in the face of tragedy, they were the ones who ministered to him.

Auld and his wife Vickie learned of the death of their 34-year-old daughter, Mary Guenther, around 1:30 a.m. Aug. 7, hours after she was killed in a rollover accident in New Mexico. It was the same day he was scheduled to give his first sermon as pastor of the congregation.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 23, 2011

MINUTE FOR MISSION: NATIVE AMERICAN DAY - Ministry among the Native Americans began shortly after the European immigrants arrived. The first Bible published in America (1633) was written in the Algonquin language. The first Indian Presbyterian Church was established in 1641 among the Shinnecock Indians on Long Island. At the meeting of the first presbytery, established in 1706 in Philadelphia, it is believed that thirty-seven Indian pastors attended. They learned to speak English and taught missionaries their native languages. The largest number of Native American churches was founded in the late 1700s to the early 1800s.
CLICK HERE to read more.

In the News ... "First United Methodist continues year of blessings for the community"

By Mary Dearen
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS -
2011 is First United Methodist Church of Midland's year to bless our community. Jesus said, "A city set on a hill cannot be hidden -- and when we light a candle we don't put it under a cover, but rather on a candlestick so that it gives light to the entire household."

We've been doing a bit of "lighting" and enjoying the impact it has made on us and our community.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 22, 2011

THE PRESBYTERY OF BOISE - "Here is the church. Here is the steeple. Open the doors and see all the people.''

These words are not merely a rhyme for children, but represent the collective vision of the congregations throughout the Presbytery of Boise. The sixteen congregations comprising the Presbytery of Boise engage in a variety of ministries that promote worship and service, outreach and stewardship as they seek to grow Christ's church deep and wide.
CLICK HERE to read more.

In the News ... "Alamo Heights to celebrate 50th anniversary"

By Sara Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Stained glass windows remain on a wall in Alamo Heights Baptist Church's fellowship hall. The small bursts of color serve as a sort of relic left from the congregation's first sanctuary -- a reminder of the church's beginnings.

Carol Livingston, a member of Alamo Heights for 42 years, points toward an empty area in front of the hall's adjoining kitchen. Her daughter had been married "right there" in the last wedding held in that sanctuary. Where the elongated kitchen is, there once stood the church's choir.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 21, 2011

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE - The United Nations was founded in 1945, in a world reeling from decades of war and human trauma. The United Nations called for an end to war and for the global pursuit of life with more freedom for all. The UN Charter recognized that peace, justice, and respect for human dignity required states to "practice tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbours.''

In 1981, the United Nations declared September 21 as International Day of Peace - a day that has been celebrated for the last thirty years during the annual gathering of heads of state and government at the opening of UN General Assembly meetings. And yet we are far from celebrating the achievement on earth of God's shalom in all its fullness.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Word from Uganda: "You Are Lost."

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 ...

You Are Lost.

Often times, when you meet a Ugandan you haven't seen in awhile, they will tell you, "You are lost." I have come to understand this as merely an extension of their typical greetings. My response of choice is either, "Yes, somehow." or "No, I have always known where I was." So, I do recognize that I have been "lost" from my blog for some time. But thank your for your faithfulness to continue checking and reading.
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 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 ... "'Rose of Sharon' guides community education"

By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - If there’s anything those old videos of “School House Rock” have taught anybody, it’s that knowledge is power.

No one could agree more with that sentiment than the leaders and community members participating in the Rose of Sharon Missionary Baptist Church’s Pathways educational ministry.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 20, 2011

THE SYNOD OF THE PACIFIC - The Synod of the Pacific supports the mission of its 11 presbyteries, 459 churches, and 97,535 members by providing both personnel and benefits services and a savings and loan program. Each year the presbyteries pool a percentage of their mission dollars with the synod's mission dollars and the revenue generated by its savings and loan program. These partnership funds are shared equally among the presbyteries, reserving a small portion for synod-wide programs.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Midland Group's Founder is Special Guest Speaker at Irish “Church in Chains” Conference

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's Founder is Special Guest Speaker at Irish “Church in Chains” Conference

Released by ChinaAid, September 15, 2011 ...

"ATHLONE IRELAND – ChinaAid founder and president Bob Fu is the special guest speaker at the annual Church in Chains Conference in Ireland to be held on Saturday September 17."

"The organizer of the one-day conference 'to focus on the Persecuted Church worldwide' is the Dublin-based group Church in Chains, which describes itself as 'an Irish voice for persecuted Christians.'"
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

In the News ... "Christ Church expands Native American ministry to New Mexico"

By Megan Lea Buck
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - On their first mission trip to Gallup, N.M., Christ Church Midland's youth group encountered a little more wildlife than they expected. The group had planned to spend two nights at Native Bible Fellowship in Gallup and then head about 20 miles south to Dusty Pines, a youth camp the Christian organization American Indian Mission is building to minister to American Indian youth in surrounding areas.

The Midlanders were set to stay at the camp where they would work with Zuni teenagers to clear land and build playgrounds for campers. An uninvited visitor caused them to change those plans.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 19, 2011

PRESBYTERY OF WESTERN NEW YORK - In 1995, Sue Earle, the mother of a disabled son, had a dream – that he would be part of a worshiping community that met his needs. She was aware of the need for alternative worship for those whose cognitive ability or distracting behaviors kept them from participating in traditional Sunday services. So she rallied a few people at Hamburg Presbyterian Church, and for the past fourteen years they have offered a monthly worship service, Christian Nurture, designed specifically for these individuals.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 18, 2011

MINUTE FOR MISSION: THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION/SEMINARY SUNDAY - Among the many things I saved from my years as a student at Columbia Theological Seminary are old papers, outlines used to study for ordination exams, and boxes of books. Recently while sorting through this collection, I found a sheet of paper with the words "Ten Things to Do When a Church Member Dies'' scribbled at the top. I remember the day I copied this list from the chalkboard. Included in the instructions are details on planning a theologically sound, pastorally sensitive funeral service and on supporting the family throughout their grieving process. All of this information is useful and important, but the advice was best summed up in a phrase I had scribbled at the bottom: Above all - Show up.
CLICK HERE to read more.

In the News ... "Pilot's widow speaks of 'journey beyond'"

By Heather Leiphart
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Cheryl McGuinness, widow of September 11 American Airlines co-pilot Tom McGuinness, shared her story of survival Sunday morning during a special 10th anniversary community remembrance service.

Her husband, Tom, was the co-pilot of the plane that hit the first World Trade Center tower that fateful day in September a decade ago.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

Got Prayer? ... Got Bear?

Available now at First Presbyterian Church-Midland

(there's no charge ... just look for one of the baskets inside any of the main doors of the church, which is located on the northwest corner of Texas and A streets, at the west edge of downtown Midland)

Dear Friend,
I'm Just a teddy bear, it's true,
but I have a message to bring to you;
I've been to church, and sat in a pew,
and I've been hugged by quite a few;
I've bowed my head when they said a prayer;
I've been charged with love by those who care.
And now I've come to live with you -
to bring you joy when you are blue,
to let you know that others care
and want all your days and nights to share.
So keep me close and squeeze me tight,
and know God's love makes all things right.
With our prayers for you,
In Touch Ministry, First Presbyterian Church

When you've had your time with me,
maybe you can set me free
to someone else who needs a prayer,
to show that God is always there.

In the News ... "Sewing circle meets weekly"

Staff Report
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - The Interfaith Sewing Service is resuming classes with the beginning of school. The group offers a place for those interested in sewing and quilting, of all skill levels, to meet and work together. Beginners are welcome.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

In the News ... "Local teens try to 'Break the Cycle' to help Africa"

Staff Report
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - As of Monday morning, local teen benefit Break the Cycle had raised $30,931.14 to help Kenyan orphans receive secondary school education.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

In the News ... "Church safety seminar provides prevention tips for leaders"

By Sara Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Everyone thought it was a skit. Perhaps the reality was too horrific to comprehend. Youth groups from the community were participating in a rally in the sanctuary at Wedgewood Baptist Church when Larry Ashworth opened fire one Wednesday evening in September 1999.

"To walk into a sanctuary and see all these kids and start firing -- it's such a peaceful, serene place where you feel safe," said homicide detective Mike Carroll, who led the investigation for the Fort Worth Police Department into the shooting. "None of us were expecting anything like this."

Carroll was one of three speakers in a church safety seminar Monday. The free event hosted at The Midland Center was geared toward pastors, church staff members, youth directors and local law enforcement.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

In the News ... "Interim pastors help churches transition"

By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Losing a pastor may be difficult for any church, but when that leader leaves unexpectedly after many years of service, some churches may need a little help moving on.

Interim pastors are sometimes hired to help the congregation cope with the loss of a pastor due to death or retirement. The temporary pastors help the church transition more smoothly to their next permanent pastor.

“It’s just really to clear the palate,” the Rev. Jim Gill, interim pastor at Westminster Presbyterian Church, said. “If you just go straight from the former pastor to the new pastor, there’s not a time of adjustment or grieving and analyzing and preparing."
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

In the News ... "Mission Dorado establishes Bible Institute"

By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - The idea of heaven can differ from religion to religion and person to person.

Tales of beaming bright lights are told often in near-death experience stories, though heaven still remains a mystery for most people.

But Mission Dorado Baptist Church pastor, the Rev. Jared Wellman, said all the answers about heaven can be found in the Bible.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

In the News ... "10th Anniversary of 9/11: A time of reflection and remembrance"

By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI
Contributor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

SAN ANGELO, TEXAS - 911. For years those numbers simply meant a call for help. The 10th anniversary of 9/11/01 marking the date of the worst terrorist attack on the United States of America is a time of much reflection and remembrance.

Ten years later, thousands still suffer from the wounds of that deadly day and feel many strong emotions. The Memorial Monument in San Angelo, where the diocese is based, unites us in solidarity and prayer for the thousands of victims and their families as we also honor the selflessness of firefighters, law enforcement people, medical, health and social workers, chaplains and other brave individuals who gave and risked their lives in the service of others.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

In the News ... "Midlander stuck in NYC meets angel to help him through 9/11"

By Jeremy Connor
Contributor
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - My former career as an employee for a major airline led to 10 years of fantastic adventures. On one such adventure I planned to visit New York City. My trip would be very brief, but I decided on a few simple goals: see the Statue of Liberty, ride a subway and catch the Red Sox vs. Yankees game at Yankee Stadium.

The weather on the morning of Sept. 9, 2001 was windy and cool as I departed my small Midland apartment. My flight to Dallas/Fort Worth was on schedule. Free air travel for employees was a great incentive the airline offered and I took advantage of it as often as possible. When I landed in DFW, I found my connecting flight without any trouble.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

In the News ... "Sept. 11 widow to share her story at CrossRoads"

By Lauren Drinkard
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - A black car drove up to Cheryl McGuinness’ home and, in an instant, her world fell apart.

On September 11, 2001, McGuinness lost her husband, Tom McGuinness, who was a co-pilot on American Airlines Flight 11, the first plane that crashed into the north tower of the World Trade Center.

And, for McGuinness, each day is lived by her motto, “Beauty beyond the ashes.”

Also the name of her ministry and book, “Beauty beyond the Ashes” is the message McGuinness will preach at CrossRoads Fellowship Church’s Community Remembrance 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday, September 11.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

In the News ... "Muslim and Christian reflect on extremist actions of 9/11"

By Sara Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Ten years after the September 11 attacks, a former Midland pastor says radical Islam is still the greatest threat the West ever has faced.

The Rev. Jim Denison, former pastor of First Baptist Church of Midland and founder of the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, explains his stance in his new book, "Radical Islam: What You Need to Know." Denison uses the chapters to answer questions like, "Was Osama bin Laden's death just?" and, "Does the Quran mandate violence?" from his experience traveling and engaging in the Muslim world.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

In the News ... "Lee Greenwood to perform at Midland church for 9/11 anniversary"

By Megan Lee
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Lee Greenwood wrote his hit song "God Bless the USA" more than 25 years ago. At that time, he said, he wanted to write a song to help Americans "become more unified and have something to hold us together as a Christian nation."

Greenwood will be at First United Methodist Church on Sunday to perform "God Bless the USA" and other songs during the church's services of remembrance and hope for the 10th anniversary of September 11. Three 55-minute services -- 8:30 a.m., 9:45 a.m. and 11 a.m. -- are open to the public.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Free Burma Rangers schedules season of Regional Meetings in the U.S.

Free Burma Rangers (FBR) is a multi-ethnic humanitarian service movement. They bring help, hope and love to people in the war zones of Burma (Myanmar). Ethnic pro-democracy groups send teams to be trained, supplied and sent into the areas under attack to provide emergency assistance and human rights documentation. Together with other groups, the teams work to serve people in need.

Free Burma Rangers schedules season of Regional Meetings in the U.S.

"Dear Friends, Free Burma Rangers are planning meetings this summer to include prayer, worship, updates on the situation in Burma and collaboration on action plans for how to take action for the people of Burma. Dave and Karen Eubank and family will be at these meetings along with others working with FBR."

Regional Meetings, 2011

ANCHORAGE, ALASKA @ Faith Christian Church, Saturday, Sept 10, 2011

"We welcome you to join us for the meeting in your area. For more information please contact; Amy Galetzka at amygaletzka@gmail.com Thank you and God Bless you,"

Free Burma Rangers

Midland Group Reports Persecution Escalates Against Chinese House Church, Elders Detained

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 Persecution Escalates Against Chinese House Church, Elders Detained

Released by ChinaAid, August, 2011 ...

"JIANGSU, CHINA – Official persecution against the Suqian house church in coastal Jiangsu province escalated Saturday with the administrative detention of three of the church’s elders, ChinaAid has learned.

The five-day detention sentences for the three elders follows the sentencing last month of the church’s pastor, Pastor Shi Enhao, to a two-year re-education-through-labor sentence. Furthermore, Pastor Shi’s son Shi Yongyang, his daughter Shi Yumei and her husband Zhang Quansheng are all at risk of being detained as well."
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

Hangin' with the Chin, Pt. 1: Mysterious Ways

It was sometime in the second half of the 18th century that English poet and hymnist William Cowper suggested that "God moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform." Over the ensuing centuries it has been used many, many times to explain many, many different situations that seem to defy explanation. Many of us have been faced with such a situation, and some of us have found Cowper's advice to offer a satisfying explanation ... it worked for me when I first met the Chin.

It was late spring in 2008, and I had just returned home from Christian mission in Thailand. It's hard to imagine a greater contrast - leaving behind Midland, Texas - one of the more affluent and comfortable communities in America - and working in the 'red light' districts of Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and the refugee camps lining the Thai/Burmese border, But there I was, living and working, giving and receiving, learning and growing. I came back changed and charged, and ready to share my testimony with others, now that my mission had come to an end.

Or had it?

That's one of the things about overseas mission ... and to critics of such ventures, it's not a good thing. They cite the time and the money, the efforts and the resources spent in communities on the far side of the world, that would have been better spent right here in our home community. For that, all I can say is that a true missional church works both at home and abroad. Our Thailand mission turned out to provide a perfect example of doing both - though I did not realize that until much later.

It was a several weeks after our return to West Texas, that one of our mission team members was chatting-up an Asian man who managed the sushi bar in the local supermarket. She learned that he was originally from Burma (Myanmar), and was now making his home in Midland. And he wasn't alone ... there were almost 60 Chin-Burmese refugees living and working in Midland at that time.

The Chin are one of several diverse, non-Burmese ethnic groups living around the nation of Burma/Myanmar - and their situation at home is unsettled, at best. We were amazed to find Burmese refugees in our West Texas community - thinking that most would be clustered in the major American cities that are traditional ports-of-entry for immigrants. For their part, the Chin were amazed to find a group of Americans who knew of their circumstances back home, the government-sanctioned persecution that had driven them from their homelands to refugee camps, and - for a lucky few - a chance at refugee status, and a chance to begin a new life in some place like America.

The Chin are located in western Burma, along the border with India. And though we had not met any Chin during our work in the refugee camps along the Thai/Burma border, we DID work with refugees from the Karen, the Shan and other ethnic groups in the eastern part of that troubled nation - who shared their own stories of burned-out villages, land-mine strewn trails, impressment into labor gangs, the beatings, the rapes, the killings and so much more.

Their being Christian - the result of 19th-century missions by the Baptists - didn't help matters either, but provided one more point of contention with the Buddhist-majority government of Burma.

A persecuted people and a persecuted church, having fled their mountain/jungle homes in Asia for the desert flats of West Texas ... only to find a group ready, willing and able to help them find their way around that home, to share all that America had to offer, while helping them share their story, and contribute their part to the community.

So, when all was said and done, my overseas mission continued long after I returned home, and it continues to this day. Who would have thought it would work out this way? It's a mystery to me ... but then, I truly believe that God DOES work in mysterious ways.

Midland Group Reports Chinese Authorities Surround House Church Camp, Detain Pastor & Ministers

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 Authorities Surround House Church Camp, Detain Pastor & Ministers

Released by ChinaAid, August, 2011 ...

"ANHUI, CHINA – A house church summer camp for children in Anhui province was surrounded by 100 local authorities, who detained the pastor and three ministers, ChinaAid has learned.

Officials from the local Religious Affairs Bureau, the Qiaotou Township government, the Public Security bureau and local police stations and traffic police descended upon the camp, at the residence of Pastor Lu Jingxiang, at 6 a.m. Thursday Aug. 11 and surrounded the area."
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

In the News ... "Running preacher finishes marathon project early"

By Gabriela Lopez
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Not only did 57-year-old “running preacher” David Johnson finish 52 marathons in 52 weeks, he finished them early.

Crossing the finish line July 10 in Missoula, Montana, the final run came without a lot of fanfare, mostly because Johnson and his wife didn’t actually realize it was the final one until after the race.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

Video Vault: "And now, for something completely different"

The following falls well outside my usual 'Video Vault' materials ... but I decided to go ahead and share it with you, anyway, after an email I received from Elizabeth Potter of Unity Productions Foundation, on behalf of their myfellowamerican.us project.

"America was built on the principles of equality and basic human rights for all. Recent mosque protests and congressional hearings on American Muslims are all unfortunate examples of a rising tide of fear that lead to intolerance and inequality," she wrote. "This climate of suspicion towards our fellow Americans compromises the great values that our country was founded upon. We've put together a 2-minute film in response that I believe you and the readers of West Texas Missioner will be interested in sharing, watching, and discussing."

I've watched it, I'm sharing it, and I'm ready to discuss it with you ... at the very least how it might address our mission of reaching out to people of other faiths, and sharing with them the Word, and the love of Jesus Christ.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: August 21, 2011

MINUTE FOR MISSION: YOUTH IN THE CHURCH AND THE WORLD - "Can I talk to you?" It was one of those cold, big-sky, starry nights that you only experience on a hilltop at Mo Ranch in Hunt, Texas. We were at a youth conference. We were walking to the auditorium for the next event on the schedule. The high school student said, "I think I want to go to seminary."
CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: August 20, 2011

GENERAL ASSEMBLY MISSION COUNCIL - When over 4,700 exuberant young people at the Presbyterian Youth Triennium celebrate their connection with Christ's church and each other, this is God's work through the General Assembly Mission Council (GAMC). When a congregation in rural North Dakota welcomes a new seminary graduate as its designated pastor through the "For Such a Time as This" Pastoral Residency Program, this is God's work through the GAMC.
CLICK HERE to read more.

In the News ... "Midland Teens Prepare for Trip of a Lifetime"

By Victor Lopez
KWES-TV

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Months of preparation are starting to give way to nerves and excitement at the chance to see Pope Benedict XVI in person.

"I don't think we really know what to expect. We just know it's going to be a life changing event," 19-year-old Elizabeth Mueller, a sophomore at Midland College, said.
CLICK HERE to read/watch the rest of the KWES report

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: August 19, 2011

PRESBYTERY OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA - Five chairs and two cubbies! With that gift, Love's Chapel in Belmont jumped into a ministry that was growing exponentially. It started when mission co-worker Dr. Barbara Nagy explained that one reason for the high staff turnover rate at Nkhoma Hospital in Malawi was the lack of adequate schools for the children of the medical staff. Willeke Ter Haar, wife of the hospital director, dreamed of opening a school for the children of the community.
CLICK HERE to read more.

In the News ... "Rocking Year for Rock the Desert"

By Shannon Murray
Reporter
KOSA-TV

MIDLAND-ODESSA, TEXAS - Rock the Desert had a successful weekend.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the KOSA report

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: August 18, 2011

PRESBYTERY OF SHENANDOAH, VIRGINIA/WEST VIRGINIA - As they drove toward Terrier Rouge, Haiti, on January 11, 2010, Warrenton Presbyterian Church's medical mission team was greeted by children singing praise and thanksgiving for God's gifts and dancing in the street to the beat of a drum. The mission team was on the way to spend a week at a clinic in this village seventy-five miles northeast of Port-au-Prince. The next day the earth shook and changed the lives of all Haitians.
CLICK HERE to read more.

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 8/17/11

CHINA/VIET NAM - Give God thanks and praise for the recent rescue of 89 kidnapped infants and the arrest of 369 people linked to two human trafficking rings. Pray for the 81 infants who were abducted, then sold in China's southern regions of Guangdong and Guangxi. The babies range in age from 10 days to four months old and are now in the care of institutions. Pray for the eight babies kidnapped in Vietnam and brought to China for sale. These infants range in age from 10 days to seven months old and had been drugged with sleeping pills.
• Pray all of these babies will be reunited with their families soon and that God will bring comfort to each of them.
• Pray for an end to China's strict "one child" policy and the tradition of favoring boys over girls (sex-selective abortions are widespread). There is a huge gender imbalance in China that's contributed to the rising number of cases of trafficked children and women. Since April 2009, police in China have uncovered 39,194 cases of human trafficking with the majority involving children or women.
A report from the msnbc.com

HAITI - Please pray for the children at Wings of Hope home for disabled children in Fermathe, Haiti during this critical time. Pray for the friends, family, and caregivers of the two children who died recently. Pray for the children at Wings of Hope who are very ill and receiving intravenous fluids for symptoms consistent with cholera. Pray for their quick and complete healing.
A report from heartswithhaiti.org
• Pray God would provide the resources needed to treat and care for these children. Please keep the staff and volunteers at Wings of Hope held close in prayer as they tend to the sick and the healthy children in their care. Pray that the illness will not spread to any other children or to the community around the home.

INDIA (International Justice Mission www.ijm.org/) Give God thanks and praise for the rescue of 24 children, women, and men from slavery at a brick kiln in Bangalore, India. Pray for these rescued families as they return to life in their home village where International Justice Mission (IJM) has helped them resettle. Praise God these children and adults no longer live in fear.
• Thanks be to God for the work of IJM in advocating freedom for these families who were often verbally threatened and physically abused. The night before they were freed, the brick kiln owner threatened to lock the laborers in a shed and set it on fire. Pray these families will receive the government rehabilitation benefits to which they are entitled and that they will have access to good jobs and educational opportunities.
A message from International Justice Mission

UNITED STATES - Pray for the 1-year-old boy who was bitten on the leg by his mother. Pray that God will protect this child and surround him with a loving, protective community. Give thanks that he is now in the care of his stepfather. Please pray that God will bring transformation and healing into the life of this little boy's mother who has been charged with child abuse and was previously convicted of cruelty to animals. Pray for all children in abusive situations, especially those who haven't been rescued.
A report from the Grand Forks Herald
• Please keep 14-year-old Sherrie * held close in prayer during a very difficult time in her life. Pray that Sherrie might be surrounded by a community of support and love that will enforce healthy boundaries for this out-of-control young woman. Pray for her mother and step-father, and for her siblings and friends, as they interact with Sherrie and respond to her often inappropriate behavior and threats.
* Name changed for confidentiality
• Please pray for Kara and her family as she goes through treatments for a recurrence of cancer. Pray that Kara's family and friends will form a strong circle of support for this young mother. Pray that God's healing touch will be upon this young woman. Please pray for comfort and peace for Kara, her husband, and her children.
• Pray that God will provide qualified, compassionate caregivers for the nursery and pre-school programs at churches in the hiring process.
• Please keep 3-year-old Zoe held close in prayer following the sudden death of her mother. Pray for a circle of love and support around this little girl. Pray for harmony and peace between her immediate and extended family.

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

In the News ... "Churches host ecumenical VBS, embrace diversity"

By Sara Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - The vacation Bible school aimed to bring together an ecumenical group of South Side churches at no cost to the kids' families. The children were invited to learn Bible stories through a lesson plan called Jesus Truth Seekers: Mission Possible. Dinner, lessons, crafts and music took place in evenings from Sunday through Thursday, and the kids were invited to Washington Park Pool on Friday night. Classes also were available for adults throughout the week.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: August 17, 2011

SALEM PRESBYTERY, NORTH CAROLINA - Growing Christ's church deep and wide in Salem Presbytery takes many twists and turns. For Ronald Shive, pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Burlington, and his congregation, growing the church took him to the heartland of each of the three Abrahamic faiths and led his church members to a deeper understanding and appreciation of Islam and Judaism.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Reports From Lulwanda: July, 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.

July, 2011

"There has been a lot going on at the Children’s Home. Apart from the summer visitors from USA, we had different audits from the government arms and our external audit. We experienced sky rocketing inflation to double digits that affected the gas pump prices. This affected the whole range of consumer goods to new high levels we had not experienced in the past five years."

"However, we highly commend the GICF board that has made all effort to support us through all these very difficult times. We continue to pray for God’s blessing and continued providence for all those hands that continue to support us in this work."
CLICK HERE to read the rest of Mukiibi's June, 2011 report.

In the News ... "Young pilgrims on the road to Spain"

By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Every day the city of Madrid, Spain, is teeming with thousands of tourists from all over the world looking for a small taste of Spanish history and culture. But for more than one million people expected to attend the international Catholic celebration, World Youth Day, Madrid will also be a place for spiritual learning and growth.

Seventeen young adults from the San Angelo Catholic Diocese are expected to make the pilgrimage out to Madrid, including two from Odessa’s Holy Redeemer Catholic Church.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: August 16, 2011

PRESBYTERY OF THE PEAKS, VIRGINIA - The belief that nothing will ever change isn't reflected in the Great Commission recorded in Matthew, nor is it held among the 17,793 members of the 135 churches within the Presbytery of the Peaks. With congregations of fewer than twelve or more than a thousand members, the presbytery prays for guidance and pushes for action, knowing that hunger, homelessness, and empty dreams continue to exist.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Midland Group Reports Emergency Shortage of Bibles in China Today

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 Emergency Shortage of Bibles in China Today

Released by ChinaAid, July, 2011 ...

"CHINA – For nearly a quarter of a century Asia Harvest has been providing Bibles to the house churches in China. In the early years this consisted of hosting many short-term teams who came to Hong Kong and carried Bibles in their bags and suitcases across the border into China. In the late 1990s we started printing Bibles secretly inside China. This greatly increased the quantity we could supply, while sharply reducing the cost per Bible. Overall, Asia Harvest and our supporters have now printed and delivered more than 3.8 million Bibles to the house church believers in China."
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).

Credo of hope that our children and grandchildren will feel empowered to build a more just and peaceful world

"O God, help our children and grandchildren to feel love and appreciation for all your gifts of life.

Grant each of them a passion for peace and for justice.

Kindness for those who are weak and needy and sad and afraid.

Courage to stand up for right and to struggle against wrong.

Friendship and kinship with all who share the world you have created.

Grant our children faith to open the door of their souls and to live their lives as you intend.

Protect them against the worms of hate and the weasels of selfishness and envy.

Help our children to sing their own songs and to hear and join in the songs of others in the spheres of the earth's firmament."
I'm Your Child, God: Prayers for our Children, by Marian Wright Edelman

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Intercessor,

Thank you for praying for the children of our world! Your prayers are valued and valuable. If you have prayer celebrations or concerns about children, those who care for them, those who have authority over them, or those who harm them, please send them to me at the email address below. Thank you!

The Midland faces of Children prayer group will meet on Wednesday, August 17, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride's room at First Presbyterian Church-Midland. Lunch ($5) and a time of fellowship will follow.

If you have 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 me at at claufer@facesofchildren.net, or give me a call.

Grace and peace,

Chris

In the News ... "A Skateboarding Mission: Ministry Aims to Reach Out to Those Lost in the Park"

By Audrey Palmer
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - It's called "Real Talk." Every Wednesday night, Celenze, a professional skateboarder, comes to the skate park at Beal Park in Midland and rallies a group of boys and girls together. His mission is to sit them down and just be real with them - to talk them through their daily struggles and problems and share Jesus.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories for the 2011 Mission Yearbook were collected around General Assembly Mission theme “Grow Christ’s Church Deep and Wide” based on Matthew 28:18-20 and Mark 9:35. Each yearbook page bears witness to the abundant possibilities of the church because of the leadership of Christ.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: August 15, 2011

PRESBYTERY OF NEW HOPE, NORTH CAROLINA - During the past four years, Snow Hill Presbyterian Church in eastern North Carolina has been revitalized. "This is a small church that was on the verge of closing," said Barbara Campbell Davis, executive presbyter of the Presbytery of New Hope. Trip McKinnon, a seminary intern who served as lay pastor, recounts that when he first arrived at Snow Hill, it had at most twenty-five adults and no children.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Video Vault: "Dispatches From the Front: Episode 4"

"Believers everywhere desperately need a renewed vision of Christ and the unstoppable advance of His saving work in all the earth. Our view of God’s Kingdom is often too small and limited to what we have experienced. "Dispatches from the Front" highlights the marvelous extent, diversity, and unity of Christ’s Kingdom in our world. The journal format of each episode underscores the daily unfolding of God’s activity on the “frontlines,” bringing viewers up-close with sights and sounds from distant corners of the Kingdom."



CLICK HERE to order your copies of "Dispatches from the Front"

Word from Uganda: "We are blessed with visitors at LCH ..."

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 ...

We are blessed with visitors at LCH ...

Of course summer is our busiest season. But I praise God that this summer has been one of the greatest in the number and type of visitors that we have been able to host at LCH. During June, two individuals came, which was so fun for me to have girls my age to show the ropes of Mbale and host slumber parties at my home :) Also, a new friend, Melanie May, has moved to Mbale and is living in my old "apartment" at Mama and Pastor's house. She will be here for at least 2 years, so I am excited to see how God will grow our friendship.
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 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

Free Burma Rangers schedules season of Regional Meetings in the U.S.

Free Burma Rangers (FBR) is a multi-ethnic humanitarian service movement. They bring help, hope and love to people in the war zones of Burma (Myanmar). Ethnic pro-democracy groups send teams to be trained, supplied and sent into the areas under attack to provide emergency assistance and human rights documentation. Together with other groups, the teams work to serve people in need.

"Dear Friends, Free Burma Rangers are planning meetings this summer to include prayer, worship, updates on the situation in Burma and collaboration on action plans for how to take action for the people of Burma. Dave and Karen Eubank and family will be at these meetings along with others working with FBR.

Regional Meetings, 2011

COLORADO @ Mile High Vineyard, Friday, July 22, 2011
Regional Meeting at Mile High Vineyard
Friday, July 22
First, on Friday night, we will now be hearing from David Eubanks from Free Burma Rangers! David and his wife Karen embody our hopes for the Cause Conference - under incredible risk for their lives, they work to help the Karen tribe of Burma find freedom and resources through their organization, Free Burma Rangers. It will be an incredibly inspiring evening!

ANCHORAGE, ALASKA @ Faith Christian Church, Saturday, Sept 10, 2011

"We welcome you to join us for the meeting in your area. For more information please contact; Amy Galetzka at amygaletzka@gmail.com

Thank you and God Bless you,"

Free Burma Rangers