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: October 8, 2011

MEXICO - Pasos de Fe, a mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and the National Presbyterian Church of Mexico, helps Christians on both sides of the border better understand each other. One example is the lives of Kevin and Marisela.
CLICK HERE to read more.

In the News ... "50 Years: The Story of the Diocese of San Angelo"

Staff Report
Odessa American

WEST TEXAS - Jimmy Patterson, author of the forthcoming book, 50 Years: The Story of the Diocese of San Angelo, will sign copies of the book and give presentations on the diocese’s history in a series of three appearances around the diocese the week before the Church's 50th anniversary.
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: October 7, 2011

MEXICO - The church was already deep - in both its physical length and spiritually. Now it needed to be wider, the side walls expanded to allow more room for growing numbers of people. This was the case in the indigenous Mexican village of Matzam, Chiapas. So friends from Hot Metal Bridge Faith Community in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, visited their Tzeltal friends for a third time.
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 10/03/11

AFRICA - Pray for pregnant women in Africa who lack access to decent medical care because of a shortage of funding, doctors, midwives, health workers, essential medicines, and basic supplies. Pray for the families and children of those who have died during childbirth. An estimated 170,000 African women die each year from pregnancy-related causes.
A report from the New York Times
• Give thanks to God that many African countries are abolishing patient fees for public health care. Pray for government leaders who have authority over these health systems. Pray they manage them with integrity and transparency, and make care for the vulnerable a priority.
• Pray for viable solutions to the complicated issues surrounding the impact of foreign aid on Africa's struggling public health systems. The United States and other donors have given African nations billions of dollars to fight infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS, yet most of those African governments have reduced their spending on domestic health care.


THAILAND - Give God thanks and praise for the Garden of Hope's children's ministry project TawSaeng (Thai for "to shine") in a bar/massage parlor district near Chiang Mai's night bazaar.
TawSaeng web page
• Pray for the 38 hill tribe children with whom TawSaeng staff and volunteers minister on a daily basis. Many of these displaced children were ripe for exploitation or sexual abuse as they sold flowers or trinkets in the bar district near their slum homes. Praise God they're at the drop-in center now and not on the streets late at night.
• Thanks be to God for the dedication of TawSaeng's staff and volunteers who reach out to these hill tribe children and provide them with healthy meals, educational assistance, school supplies and uniforms, social survival skills training, and an opportunity to play and study in a safe environment at the children's drop-in center. Give God thanks for providing the resources needed to pay rent and cover the cost of several projects.
• Pray that God will provide the documentation, resources, and training needed for the parents of these ethnic hill tribe children to obtain jobs that pay living wages. Pray for God's encouragement and peace for parents who took their children out of poverty in the village only to find it again in the city.

UNITED STATES - Continue to keep 11-year-old Dallas held close in prayer as he experiences the hard consequences of his mother Betty's * questionable decisions. Betty was recently arrested for driving without insurance and ended up in jail over a holiday weekend. Dallas was placed in foster care when his sitter called police to report Betty for neglect. Please pray that God will bring stability and consistency into Dallas' life. Please pray for his emotional and psychological health. Pray that Betty will maintain her hard won sobriety throughout this difficult experience. Please pray that Betty will make better choices for herself and Dallas in the future.
* Name changed for confidentiality and/or protection
• Pray for the children and families of Minot, North Dakota who, because of heavy flooding last August, were forced from their homes and into temporary housing. Pray for those living in hotels who will now have to move to Red Cross shelters because the hotels are already booked for Norsk Høstfest, North America's largest Scandinavian festival.(http://www.hostfest.com/concerts/index.asp) Pray for those living in tents and campers in their backyards who will also have to move to shelters because the weather is getting colder. Please pray that all of the FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) trailers needed to house these families will be put into place quickly.
• Please continue to pray for Ben who suffers from psychological problems as a result of severe physical and emotional abuse in his childhood. Last year Ben had to be placed in a mental hospital because of these issues. Pray for Ben's adoptive parents as they face even more challenges. Four of the children they adopted from a sibling group of five are showing signs of mental illness. Pray for these children as they go through this tough time. Pray for healing and for the peace of God that surpasses all understanding for Ben, his brothers and sisters, and his adoptive 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.
• Please pray for Brittney, the 26-year-old friend of a Faces of Children prayer partner, as she begins treatment for a very rare form of cancer in a tumor on her neck. Pray that God will comfort and provide for this young woman who must have very radical surgery to treat this type of cancer.
• 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 ... "Interim pastors help churches transition"

By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Darrell Eastman has sure had a busy summer. After beginning his new position as Director of Christian Life and Youth Ministries at Westminster Presbyterian Church, with the church’s youth going to workshops, mission trips and Rock the Desert.

But as the year heads into the fall season, Eastman has finally slowed down a little – if you call reestablishing the church’s education program, starting a men’s ministry and hosting a slew of upcoming events slowing down.
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: October 6, 2011

LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN - A turning point for growing the church deep and wide in Latin America and the Caribbean came in 1929. Who could have imagined that the Protestant community of a couple of million members would grow to about sixty million members today? That year, church leaders of the Americas organized a mission congress without help from the foreign mission boards. With the theme, "Christ Calls at the Doors of Fourteen Nations,'' the event marked the opening of a new chapter of mission and evangelism planned and organized by Latin American people.
CLICK HERE to read more.

In the News ... "Tabernacle Experience stops by Odessa"

By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Compared to sky high buildings and other wonders of modern architecture, the sight of a makeshift tent in an enclosed sandy courtyard isn’t exactly what you would call impressive.

But once you step inside the tent, representing the Tabernacle of Moses, your first impressions could change into a profound experience.
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: October 5, 2011

STOCKTON PRESBYTERY - Delhi Community Presbyterian Church, in the San Joaquin Valley, is a small church of sixty members with a big vision that they call "Impacting Our Community for Jesus Christ." One way this is lived out is through a food ministry. Delhi is a relatively poor community and it seems that hunger has always been present there, so the Delhi church opened a food closet.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Word from Uganda: "Wish List"

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 ...

Wish List

If you, your church or your organization is planning a trip to Mbale, Uganada this year - or sending a 'care package' - please consider the items from the following 'Wish List,' posted in on Natalie's blog.

Lulwanda Children's Home ideas:
• Ink Cartridges
o HP 920 (for officejet 6500)
o HP 21 and 22 (for deskjet D1360)
o HP 45 and 78 (for officejet G85)
o Toner Canon C-EXV18-TONER (for copier Canon iR1018J)
• thumb (flash) drives
• games (Trouble, Scrabble, Chutes & Ladders, etc.) and cards
• colorful magazine advertisements and old calendars (magazine papers need to be a bit thick like "real simple" and "martha stewart"
• toy cars
• crayons and markers
• flashlights
• penss
• coloring books
• beads (bigger seed beads, tube beads, or other fun ones)
• clasps for necklace making
• balls (soccer, volley, basket ball, tennis)
• sports bras
• tee-shirts
• underwear/panties
• socks
• plastic shoe boxes with lids
• kids DVDs
• magazines - "Martha Stewart" and "Real Simple"
• "uniformed"/ matching sets of clothing-- I know sometimes private schools have surplus of matching uniforms (whether misprinted or being replaced by new design)- nice or sportswear

Care package ideas for me :)
• Face moisturizer with SPF
• curly hair moose (TresAme)
• curl sculpting cream (Fructis curl sculpting cream)
• Clean and Clear face wash
• Dove deodorant
• Toothpaste (Crest ProHealth)
• Maybelline Purestay Powder foundation (Buff)
• Maskera, Loreal Telescopic (black brown)
• Bonine motion sickness medicine
• TV series on DVD (one's you have finished are great)
• iTunes giftcards
• Amazon giftcards
• Games: Flinch, Sequence, Commotion, cards, anything else
• Pam cooking spray
• chocolate chips
• cereal - Quaker Oatmeal Squares, Multi-Grain Cheerios
• Luna bars- chocolate peppermint or chocolate and peanut butter
• candy - M&Ms (peanut and peanut butter), Hot Tamales, Laffy Taffy, York Pepperment Patties, party bag (KitKat,
Milky Way, Snickers, Twix), Skittles, Baby Ruth


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

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).

Prayer for Those in Distress ... The Liturgy of St. Mark

"Almighty and everlasting God,
the comfort of the sad,
the strength of those who suffer,
let the prayers of your children who cry out of any tribulation
come to you.

To every soul that is distressed,
grant mercy, grant relief, grant refreshment;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."
The Book of Common Worship, Daily Prayer, by Westminster/John Knox Press

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Intercessor,

Thank you for praying so faithfully for the children of our local and global communities. Even though we may not get to see all of the answers to our prayers, please know yours are valued messages of hope and love for the children of our world!

This coming Wednesday, October 5, 2011, the Midland Faces of Children prayer group will meet at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride's room at First Presbyterian Church-Midland. Please join us for this time of prayer, and afterward for lunch ($5) and a time of fellowship.

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.

I give God grateful thanks for you every time I pray through the Faces of Children list!

Blessings,

Chris

In the News ... "MAAS Celebrates 20 Years of Support and Education"

By Stephanie Rivas
Anchor/Reporter
KOSA-TV

MIDLAND, TEXAS - It's a disease that comes with stigmas and prejudice, but HIV and AIDS have no boundaries. It can strike a husband, a wife, a partner or even your child.

But there is help for those who turn to Midland/Odessa Area AIDS Support. The group began with one family who had no place to turn.
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: October 4, 2011

THE PRESBYTERY OF SAN JOSE - "We don't really have any poor people living here, do we?" asked a church member as others rapidly loaded barrels with canned food for a local food bank. Sadly, many people are unaware that a quarter of the residents in Silicon Valley live below the poverty line. Two programs recently launched here are changing that misconception about who our neighbors are.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Midland Group Shares Review of Liao Yiwu's "God Is Red"

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 Shares Review of Liao Yiwu's "God Is Red"

Released by ChinaAid, September, 2011 ...

"ELLEN BORK, for the Wall Street Journal – There is the authorized version of life in China propagated by the Communist Party, and then there is the unauthorized version. Liao Yiwu is one of the foremost authors of the latter, for which he has paid a steep price."
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

In the News ... Odessans fill the 'Empty Bowls'

By Nathaniel Miller
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Odessans opened up their hearts and wallets Friday during the 13th annual "Empty Bowls" fundraiser at St. John’s Episcopal Church, to help raise money for the West Texas Food.
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: October 3, 2011

THE PRESBYTERY OF SAN JOAQUIN - By 2004, the bar adjacent to First Presbyterian Church of Visalia was well-known to the local police department, which made hundreds of service calls on the establishment. When the church discovered the opportunity to purchase the building in 2005, it bought it with the mission of bringing unchurched people to faith in Jesus Christ through a multichurch, city-wide partnership via conversation, art, and music.
CLICK HERE to read more.

Video Vault: "World Communion Sunday"

Today is World Communion Sunday, and I thought the following video, a scene from the movie, Places in the Heart, was especially appropriate. Those of you who have scene the film will know the special significance of this scene.

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: October 2, 2011

MINUTE FOR MISSION: WORLD COMMUNION SUNDAY/PEACEMAKING OFFERING - Lynn Hasselbarth's first Communion in Peru when she was a Young Adult Volunteer fell on World Communion Lynn writes, "This is, I think, where the idea of World Communion begins – the ability and willingness to physically live in one place but let your heart and soul reside in many places, among many people – to hold hands with someone from halfway across the world through a deep knowledge of their circumstances and a shared belief that we are connected through our relationship with God."
CLICK HERE to read more.

In the News ... "New Children’s Facility On the Way for Mid-Cities Church"

Staff Report
KWES-TV

MIDLAND, TEXAS - A new children's facility is on the way at Mid-Cities Church in Midland.
CLICK HERE to read/watch the rest of the KWES report

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.

In the News ... Chance to fill 'Empty Bowls,' TONIGHT in Odessa

By Heather Leiphart
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - It seems like $10 won’t get you far with the recent economy woes, but [TONIGHT], it’ll buy you dinner and help feed those in need.

On Friday from 7 p.m. till 9 p.m., St. John’s Episcopal Church, 401 N. West County Road, will be holding their 13th annual Empty Bowl fundraiser in which $10 will get you a ceramic bowl, soup donated by Catfish and Company, a drink and dessert donated by Jalisco’s Restaurant. All proceeds raised Friday will go towards the West Texas Food.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

In the News ... "Local production company creates children's Christian DVD series"

By Sara Higgins
Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - There's never a dull moment in the lives of Sam and Hazel Collins. Perhaps it's because of the interesting characters that pop up in their hometown of Hurleyville: Twankles the clown, superstar Naomi Ramoni and Arnie the car salesman and his two unrefined cousins, Earl and Dearl.

This West Texas town may be an exciting place to live, but most importantly for its creators, it's a town whose residents strive to put God first.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

In the News ... Chance to fill 'Empty Bowls,' this week in Odessa

By Heather Leiphart
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - It seems like $10 won’t get you far with the recent economy woes, but on Friday, it’ll buy you dinner and help feed those in need.

On Friday from 7 p.m. till 9 p.m., St. John’s Episcopal Church, 401 N. West County Road, will be holding their 13th annual Empty Bowl fundraiser in which $10 will get you a ceramic bowl, soup donated by Catfish and Company, a drink and dessert donated by Jalisco’s Restaurant. All proceeds raised Friday will go towards the West Texas Food.
CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

Reports From Lulwanda: August, 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.

August, 2011

"The Lord is so good. After a whirlwind of a summer, with four teams, one family, and two individuals, coming to visit LCH, August was a wonderful time for a break- especially a school break."

"The second term ended on 12th August with a wonderful celebration for all the best performing students from the first and second term. Those students enjoyed public recognition during the closing term assembly and were invited to sit at the “tables of honor” during lunch. The best performers were served soda, chappati, cake, and sweets in addition to their normal lunch meal. They all seemed very encouraged and the other students, not at the high table, were challenged to do better next term in order to have that same position."
CLICK HERE to read the rest of Mukiibi's June, 2011 report.

Midland Group Reports Prominent Chinese House Church Leader Released Early from Prison

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 Prominent Chinese House Church Leader Released Early from Prison

Released by ChinaAid, September, 2011 ...

"ZHENGZHOU, HENAN, CHINA – One of the most prominent house church leaders in China, Zhang Rongliang, has been released from prison nine months before the end of his prison sentence and allowed to return home, ChinaAid has learned."

"Family members report that he is in good spirits and that, apart from serious diabetes, he is in good health. Zhang’s wife and their two sons had been deeply concerned about Zhang’s health in prison because of his long-standing diabetic condition, which had become so serious that he was transferred to a civilian hospital for nearly two months while he awaited trial. He was seen handcuffed to his hospital bed."
Read the Rest of the Report from ChinaAid

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 24, 2011

THE PRESBYTERY FOR THE CASCADES - One challenge to growing Christ's church deep and wide is making the doors wide enough and the entrance level enough so that all may enter - and see, hear, and participate. For a decade, the Opening Doors Task Force of the presbytery has been working to make this vision a reality.
CLICK HERE to read more.

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.
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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