West Texas Missioner

Saturday, May 10, 2014

Get stamping ...

Helping out the National Association of Letter Carriers, the U.S. Postal Service and West Texas Food bank this morning, as they work to "Stamp Out Hunger" today ...

... won't you help? It's a good chance to meet-and-greet - and THANK! - your neighborhood letter carrier ... here's mine.

In the News ... "Permian prayer walk planned"

OA Photo by Edyta Blaszczyk

Staff Report
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Permian students and staff have organized a prayer walk to take place at 7:30 a.m. Monday in front of the school, asking God to watch over the school and its students.

• read the rest of this OA report ...

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

MINUTE FOR MISSION: FAIR TRADE - In an increasingly globalized world, we are waking to the need to take greater responsibility for each other’s well-being and the planet’s health. Through the practice of fair trade, we marry physical need with our thoughtful ideals.

No longer do we buy simply to satisfy a need or a want; instead, we participate in a greater world project to bring healing and peace with justice to persons, communities, and places. Through our intentional purchases, we join with God and as members of one another.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Friday, May 9, 2014

How do seeds help children?

Steve and Oddny Gumaer started Partners Relief & Development in response to the needs of refugees and displaced people from Burma. Their mission is to demonstrate, through holistic action, God’s love to children and communities made vulnerable by war in Burma.

In a camp for internally displaced people in northern Burma, both adults and children know all too well what it feels like to starve.

Now, because of your generosity and partnership with us, they also know the joy of harvesting some fresh green beans, a pumpkin or some fragrant herbs from the field by the camp they reside in. For the past three years, while the Burma Army has been attacking Kachin villages, we have helped the survivors continue farming for their own livelihood.

• read the full story

Partners Relief and Development is a registered charity in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and the United States, working with communities impacted by war in Burma.

From @FWMission ... Friday Story: "Renewed Hope"

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.

Friday Story: "Renewed Hope"

Greetings and happy Friday!

Hope, dignity, independence. These are all things many of us take for granted at one point or another. It is bad enough struggling with these feelings, but when they are compounded with the loss of mobility, life is truly difficult. This week I share a story of a young man in India:

Ruben was the only member of his family to go to school and during his 12thstandard (similar to 12thgrade in the US) he had to drop out of school to care for his ailing parents. He got a job as a painter and worked hard to provide for his family. Four years ago he became sick with a severe fever that affected his brain. The fever was so extreme that it caused paralysis of both of his legs.

After taking care of his ailing parents for over a decade, the 30 year old man was now dependent upon his elderly father to care for him ...

• read the rest of this story ...

In the News ... "'Duck Dynasty’ returns to Basin"

AP File Photo

• Women of TV show to share motherly experiences

By Jared Wilson, Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - CrossRoads Fellowship, the church out on Highway 191, has had some popular guests in the past, but now a new round of spokesmen — or rather spokeswomen — will be coming to share their experiences on a day meant for mom.

The wives of Duck Dynasty Korie Robertson, Mrs. Kay Robertson and Chrys Howard are headed to the Permian Basin for Mother’s Day to speak to the church about being mothers and a driving influence for their famous bearded redneck spouses.

• read the rest of this OA report ...

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

KENYA - Kibera is one of the largest slums in the world, where drug abuse, prostitution, illiteracy, unemployment, HIV/AIDS, crime, and poor sanitation are prevalent. The majority of the people are young. Christianity and Islam are the dominant religions.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Thursday, May 8, 2014

Teichert Prayer Letter for May

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

May Letter ...

Dear family and friends,

Last month my teammate Maggie and I were able to purchase new shoes for the HIV/AIDS caregivers in Finetown! As you know, the caregivers walk miles each day to visit their sick patients and care for them. Many of them have been wearing worn or tattered shoes, so it was fun to surprise them with new tennis shoes.

The majority of the money raised for the shoes came from a children’s church program, but other churches and individuals contributed as well. We want to say a special Thank You and We Love You from the caregivers to all of those who gave sacrificially!

They were so happy they gave us hugs and then danced and sang songs of thanksgiving to God in their native tongue (visit my Facebook page to watch the live video). It was a blessing for Maggie and me to be a part of blessing them with these gifts. The other amazing answer to our prayers was that all 29 pairs of shoes fit!
With grateful hearts,

Jenny, for the Teicherts

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

Faces of Children: Prayer Concerns for This Week

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

Prayer Concerns for the Week of 05/08/14

Burma

Several years ago, Nancy * formed a children’s home in Burma called Hallelujah Orphanage. She and her family care for 11 abused, neglected, or orphaned children in their home. They provide a loving environment that is safe and stable for these very vulnerable children. The children who live at Hallelujah Orphanage are able to pursue an education and experience daily the abundant love of Jesus Christ.
* Name changed for confidentiality and/or protection.
• Please pray God will provide the resources Nancy and her family need to continue helping these children. Pray God will also bring healing to Nancy as she suffers from frequent, severe headaches.
• Give thanks to God the children have done so well on their year-end exams. Please pray for God’s comfort for the one girl who did not pass her final exam and will have to stay in the same class next year.
• Pray God will bring rain to their province soon so they might be able to work their land and tend the crops.

Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Mexico, United States

The number of unaccompanied migrant children entering the United States has increased drastically in the last three years. A total of 38,833 minors traveling without families were detained in the U.S. last year alone—more than half of them apprehended along the southeastern edge of Texas. Three-quarters of the detained youths are male; however, more girls and children, some as young as 5 or 6, are crossing into the U.S. now. Immigration advocates believe the majority of youth and children are fleeing violence in their home countries in Central America. They say drug cartel and gang violence in Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador are driving out many of these young people and children. Apprehended children and young people tell disturbing stories of abuse and hardship during their trips north. Many have been attacked, robbed, chased, sexually assaulted, or kidnapped and trafficked by drug cartels; struggled with hunger, thirst, illness, and exposure to extreme heat or cold; or witnessed brutal and traumatizing events.
• more on this issue
• Please keep in prayer unaccompanied children who are migrating or have migrated to the U.S. Pray for those who have experienced violence at home, only to go through it again during their journey north. Pray for children who have been apprehended and are now in shelters and in the custody of the Office of Refugee Resettlement in the U.S. Please pray for those who are frightened and feeling alone.
• Pray for parents who make tough life and death decisions about their children…whether to keep their children home where they’re vulnerable to extreme violence from drug cartels and gangs or send them north on a treacherous journey.
• Please pray for the family and friends of 12-year-old Noemi Alvarez Quillay who is reported to have committed suicide while being held in a Mexican shelter for children. Noemi’s parents hired coyotes, human smugglers, to bring their daughter from Ecuador to New York last February, but she was apprehended at the Mexico/Texas border a month later. Pray for Noemi’s grandparents who raised her and four other grandchildren when their adult children migrated to the U.S. without visas.
• more on this request

United States

• Please keep 2-year-old Jake close in prayer as he receives treatment for leukemia. Pray God’s healing touch will be upon this little one. Pray for his parents as they make important decisions about Jake’s medical care.
Last summer, sixth-grader Shianne Stull was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a congenital heart condition with which she was born. Shianne’s thick heart muscle is stiff, making it difficult for the heart to relax and blood to fill the chambers. She has gone through three surgeries, but the only cure is a heart transplant. Shianne’s condition must worsen before she can be placed on a transplant list. She tires easily and cannot participate in any sports activities at school.
• more on this issue
• Please keep Shianne close in prayer as she goes through this challenging season in her young life. Pray God will sustain and encourage her, especially in those times when she is feeling anxiety and fear.
• Pray for her parents as they navigate the medical system and make decisions about her care and treatment. Pray God will also comfort them when they are frightened for their daughter but don’t want her to see their fear.
• Give thanks to God for the strong support system surrounding Shianne and her family

Faces of Children

• Please keep in prayer Louise, the mother-in-law of Faces of Children prayer partner Karen, as she faces a long recovery period following surgery. Pray Louise’s pain will subside and God will bless her with complete healing. Pray for Louise’s family as they help care for her during this difficult season
• 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 ... "West Texas Food Bank Gearing Up For 22nd Annual "Stamp Out Hunger" Food Drive"

Staff Report
KWES-TV

MIDLAND/ODESSA, TEXAS - The West Texas Food Bank is gearing up for their 22nd Annual “Stamp Out Hunger” Food Drive.

The non-profit organization teamed up with the National Association of Letter Carriers, Medical Center and Midland Memorial for the event.

This is all part of a nationwide event which will take place this Saturday.

Postal workers will collect non-perishable goods as they deliver mail along their routes.

• read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

ETHIOPIA (continued) - The students in my advanced English class at the Mekane Yesus Seminary are as varied as they are promising. For class, I asked them to develop proposals for how they would implement social change through the church.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

WAW Wednesdays: Gospel Expo / House of Hope Fundraiser / TWAW Shipping

"The Word at Work is a ministry that mobilizes churches and individuals to answer God's call to minister to those in need," writes Rev. Tim Tam, Director of the Amarillo, Texas-based ministry. "Through our relationships, God reveals needs and opportunities for service. As we come along side the poor, new friendships develop and doors for ministry open. As we serve, God provides the resources to supply for the needs he reveals."

2014 Belize Gospel Expo Activates

The 2nd Annual Belize Gospel Expo was held March 14-16 at the Belize National Fairgrounds in Belmopan. Friday evening was "Latino Night" and featured local and international music groups; Saturday was filled with children's ministry, international speakers, mentoring for young people, leadership training and empowerment; the event concluded Sunday with an ecumenical worship service, focusing attendees on what it means to be a part of the church universal and working together for His glory.

TWAW was privileged to be part of this event! We are especially grateful to artists like Durant (pictured here preparing for a day at the Expo), 412 & PreOrdained for making the journey - these artists poured their gifts out all over Belize as they also brought their message of hope in Christ to prisoners at Belize Central Prison, sang for residents of Octavia Waight Home for the Elderly in San Ignacio as well as the kids at King's Children's Home and many other locations. Each time they shared their gift, God was glorified!

Brothers 412 (Yung Rick, B Holy, Big Nick and DJ Chris Van Dam) shared this video with us from their time in Belize - we hope you will enjoy it

Marla's House of Hope Annual Fundraiser

May 10, 2014 is a big day for Marla's House of Hope - the home holds an annual fundraiser to solidify their funding for the year - so a lot is riding on the success of this evening! Marla's is able to care for 20 girls at a time - their operating budget pays for food, clothing, shelter, care giving, counseling, and education for the girls while they are in Marla's care.

The Belizean government covers roughly 10% of the annual cost of operating Marla's. The remaining 90% is provided by individuals like you. Consistent monthly donors are in high demand! Please be in prayer for the fundraising event May 10 ... to become a monthly donor, simply download this form and return it to TWAW offices. Thank you!

Sweat, Smiles and TWAW Shipping Program

Tim Hagen and his band of many volunteers have been busily loading shipping containers with donated supplies in Amarillo and Ocean Springs, MS. What happens when these containers arrive in Belize? In March, our group from Lubbock / Denver City, was called upon to unload the contents of one shipment. It's hot work...grueling in fact...but out of difficulty comes great blessing! We are happy to share this letter from Jose, the Principal of Valley of Peace Christian School:

"On behalf of VOP Christian School, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all members of TWAW, and the kind donors who made a wonderful donation to our school. We are so grateful for the computers, books, and furniture...the smiles on the children's faces say it all...they are now more comfortable and motivated to learn ... this donation directly impacts future generations!"

Tim Tam
The Word at Work

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

ETHIOPIA - A majority of Christians worldwide now live in the global South. Ethiopia is an epicenter of this accelerating shift. In 2010 it had the 10th largest Christian population of any nation; by 2050, it will rank 3rd! Young Ethiopians of this generation and the next will by midcentury be leading a worldwide center of Christian life and thinking. Will they be ready?

Two who will are Sofanit and Paulos, who were married in 2011.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Word from Uganda: "I have TEAMMATES!!"

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 ...

I have TEAMMATES!!

My heart has been overwhelmingly blessed by the grace and love that the 44 Ugandan staff of LCH have shown me everyday. As the only expat staff member, I have learned so many lessons and been loved well.

But to everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven. And in this season, God has brought teammates to join me at LulwandaMy heart has been overwhelmingly blessed by the grace and love that the 44 Ugandan staff of LCH have shown me everyday. As the only expat staff member, I have learned so many lessons and been loved well.

But to everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven. And in this season, God has brought teammates to join me at Lulwanda ...

• read the rest of Natalie's post ...

Invitation to Prayer: TOMORROW

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

Pray for One Another (continued from last week)

“We often wonder what we can do for others….It is not a sign of powerlessness when we say: ‘We must pray for one another.’ To pray for one another is, first of all, to acknowledge, in the presence of God, that we belong to each other as children of the same God. Without this acknowledgement of human solidarity, what we do for one another does not flow from who we truly are ...

To pray, that is, to listen to the voice of the One who calls us ‘Beloved,’ is to learn that that voice excludes no one. Where I dwell, God dwells with me and where God dwells with me I find all my sisters and brothers.”

Here and Now: Living in the Spirit by Henri J. M. Nouwen

Abraham traveled from there south to the Negev... While he was camping in Gerar, Abraham said of his wife Sarah, “She’s my sister.” So Abimelech, king of Gerar, sent for Sarah and took her. But God came to Abimelech in a dream that night and told him, “You’re as good as dead—that woman you took, she’s a married woman.” Now Abimelech had not…touched her. He said, “Master, would you kill an innocent man? Didn’t he tell me, ‘She’s my sister’? And didn’t she herself say, ‘He’s my brother’? I had no idea I was doing anything wrong when I did this.” God said to him in the dream, “Yes, I know your intentions were pure, that’s why I kept you from sinning against me… So now return the man’s wife. He’s a prophet and will pray for you—pray for your life.”

The Message by Eugene Peterson

God of all, I am on this journey of life which is a cycle of life to life: I am born, I live, I die to be born to eternal life. As I pass through on this journey, let my own sinful self die and a new person rise to the challenges of praising you. I will keep the words of the liturgy ever in mind this Eastertide: “Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again. Amen.”

Lent and Easter Wisdom by Henri J. M. Nouwen

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,

The Faces prayer group will meet on Wednesday, May 7, 2014 at 11:30 a.m. in our new regular spot, the Family Life Center conference room off of the gym (the old weight room) at First Presbyterian Church-Midland. Lunch ($5) and fellowship will follow our time of prayer. Prayer group materials will be available at the administrative desk in the Family Life Center.

If you have prayer concerns or celebrations about children, those who care for them, those who have authority over them, or those who harm them (the really hard prayers to say sometimes), please send them to me at at claufer@facesofchildren.net, or give me a call.

Blessings,

Chris

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. How often have you wondered, where are the young adults in the PC(USA)? Wonder no longer. The 2014 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is devoted to the theme of young adults in the church. Its stories, many told by young adults, lift up how Presbyterians of all ages are engaging and joining with Presbyterian young adults in reforming the church for Christ’s mission.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: May 6, 2014

REPUBLIC OF THE SUDAN - The bustle and business of Khartoum gives the casual observer the impression of a vibrant capital city. On the surface, the shopkeepers laugh with customers seeking a bargain. Inevitably, the shopkeeper will win and then offer kind hospitality to his very best customer in form of a shared cup of spiced tea.

On the surface, life appears pleasant, but after a few sips of tea the conversation reveals underlying political, economic, and spiritual tensions that touch the lives of all citizens of Sudan. These difficulties press especially hard on Christians seeking to live in the hope that is our inheritance through the love, grace, and mercy of God revealed in the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Chris.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Monday, May 5, 2014

Invitation to Prayer: Wednesday

In the News ... "Mayor holds annual prayer luncheon"

OA Photo by Mark Sterkel

• Event coincides with National Day of Prayer

By Nathaniel Miller, Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - When Nathan G. Lino stood up in front of the group attending the MCM Grande Hotel and FunDome for the annual Mayor Prayer Luncheon, he first talked about a recent trip to Iraq.

While there, Lino, who founded the Northeast Houston Baptist Church in 2002, said there were many similarities and differences between the Iraqi people and Texans.

• read the rest of this OA report ...

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

REPUBLIC OF SOUTH SUDAN (continued) - My name is Luka William Athial. I am from Pibor County in Jonglei State, am married to one wife, and have four children from three months to six years old. I was born into a Christian family. My parents were poor and could not send me to school, so my education was interrupted.

Due to civil war—for 20 years of my life—many people were displaced, and many others were captured by the armed forces, including my mother. Our remaining family struggled for safety until we reached Malakal, where we settled down and attended the Murle congregation there.

We called upon the Lord ...

CLICK HERE to read more.

Sunday, May 4, 2014

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

MINUTE FOR MISSION: OLDER ADULTS - McLeod Memorial Presbyterian Church in Bartow, Florida, honors the memory of Meddie Stuart McLeod, whose generosity to the community is legend. The congregation, though small in members, is known for its big heart.

Members are proud of their yearly local and international mission programs. They are grateful to deliver meals to over 70 shut-ins monthly, and their Christmas Project enables over 100 families and 150 children to enjoy the holiday. The congregation takes great satisfaction in the act of giving.

Older adults make up a majority of the congregation, but their wisdom and passion for mission has attracted younger families to the church.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Saturday, May 3, 2014

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

REPUBLIC OF SOUTH SUDAN - Milka is a 19-year-old Murle woman of strong faith. In December 2010 she was living with her husband, six-month-old son, and in-laws in Pibor, South Sudan. They heard rumors that a neighboring ethnic group was coming to attack, so they moved to the cattle camp. Two days later the attackers came. People ran toward the military barracks for protection. Milka and her baby were surrounded and captured. Thus began the one-month walk to the village of Nasir. Milka wasn't afraid. She prayed to God for courage and wisdom. She knew God was with her. She prayed: "If you want me to be a wife and live in this tribe, you must give me the strength. If it is your will to return me home. I'll be happy. Your will be done in my life."

CLICK HERE to read more.

Friday, May 2, 2014

In the News ... "Jamie Grace keeps it real amid her rising fame"

Rich Lopez, Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

ANDREWS, TEXAS - Singer Jamie Grace contends she’s just a “normal kid.” Most 22-year-olds don’t have music awards on their shelves, a new house and a second album on the way. But Grace doesn’t talk like the Christian music celebrity she’s becoming. She’s totally the girl next door — and for her parents, that’s literally the case.

She performs with MercyMe and Citizen Way at the Andrews County Expo arena today. Before heading this way, Grace talked about her latest album “Ready to Fly,” finding her husband and how she made peace with her disorder.

• read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

RWANDA - The meeting room of the Presbyterian Church in Rwanda’s (EPR) Groupe Scolaire Secondary School was filling up with students who had recently joined the school’s new Peace Club, which is supported by PC(USA) World Mission. When I asked the students how the club had influenced their lives, Jean Pascal’s hand immediately shot up.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Thursday, May 1, 2014

In the News ... "MercyMe questions identity on new album"

Rich Lopez, Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

ANDREWS, TEXAS - The ignition has been switched all the way on MercyMe’s April release “Welcome to the New.” With a reinvigorated drive, the band plays with an aggression that, despite being a monster on the Christian rock scene for two decades, feels fresh and organic. MercyMe plays the County Expo Arena in Andrews on Friday, May 2.

Some might use the word “liberated” to describe the new album, and that wouldn’t be far off. “Welcome to the New” is the result of the band wrestling with its identity as a whole and individually.

The recognition of both popes resonates particularly with Sis and the San Angelo Diocese.

• read the rest of this story

Faces of Children: Prayer Concerns for This Week

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

Prayer Concerns for the Week of 05/01/14

Nigeria

An estimated 234 girls were abducted from the Chibok Government Girls Secondary School in northeast Nigeria shortly after midnight on April 14, 2014. An Islamic extremist group called Boko Haram (which means “Western education is sinful”) is believed to be responsible for the kidnapping of the girls who are between 16 and 18 years of age. Boko Haram uses violence in its efforts to establish an Islamic Sharia state in northeast Nigeria, but the most recent attacks and kidnappings in this five-year-long campaign are unprecedented. The group has abducted girls in previous attacks to use as porters, cooks, and sex slaves; however, the kidnapping of so many girls from one school has shocked the country. In addition to the mass kidnapping, Boko Haram is believed to be responsible for a massive explosion during rush hour at a busy bus station outside the capital city Abuja, also on April 14. At least 75 people were killed and 141 injured.
• more on this issue
• more on this issue
• more on this issue
• Please pray for the safety and freedom of each girl kidnapped from the high school in Chibok. Give thanks several girls managed to escape from the truck when they were first abducted. Pray for the safety of the parents of these girls as they search for them in nearby Sambisa Forest, a known hiding place for the militants.
• Keep in prayer those injured in the bombing on the outskirts of Abuja. Pray for they receive good medical care and experience complete healing. Pray for the loved ones and friends of those killed in this attack.
• Please pray for peace in Nigeria’s troubled northeast region. Pray God would change the hearts of those who use violence to achieve their goals.

South Korea

On April 16, 2014, a South Korean ferry, carrying 476 people, capsized and sank. Almost three quarters of the passengers on board were 16- and 17-year-old students from Danwon High School in Ansan, near Seoul. The students and their chaperones were headed to Jeju, a popular resort island, on a school field trip. On that first day, 174 people were rescued, but no other survivors have been found since. To date, 113 bodies have been recovered with more than 190 still missing. The students were ordered to wear life jackets and stay below deck. The evacuation order wasn’t given until 30 minutes after the ship began to tilt, trapping many in cabins or passageways as the ferry listed heavily to one side. The captain and crew have been accused of failing to save passengers.
• more on this issue
• more on this issue
• more on this issue
• Please keep in prayer the survivors of this tragedy as they recover from injuries sustained in the accident and from the trauma of the experience. Pray for their families as they help their loved ones through this difficult season.
• Pray for the families of the students still missing as they await word about their children. Pray for God’s comforting presence with them all during this anxious time.
• Please pray for the loved ones of the other passengers still missing. Pray God will comfort and bring them peace.
• Pray for the rescue crews as they continue to dive down into the submerged ferry and search for the bodies of the missing. Pray God will sustain them in this difficult work.

United States

• On the morning of April 9, 2014, 16-year-old Alex Hribal allegedly attacked students using two knives as they passed through the hallways of a Murrysville, Pennsylvania high school. The violent attack injured 21 students and a security guard—several of the injured are still in critical condition.
• more on this issue
• more on this issue
• Please pray for God’s healing touch to be upon the injured students and security guard. Pray for their complete recovery. Pray for the parents and guardians of these young people as they help their children through the recovery process. Pray God will also bring emotional, psychological, and spiritual healing to those affected by this brutal attack.
• Pray for the young man accused of committing this attack. Pray for his parents and brother as they try to understand what happened and support their son/brother.
• Give God thanks Hribal was stopped by an assistant principal and a security guard before he could do more harm.
• Pray students and staff at Franklin Regional High School will experience the peace of Christ as they resume their studies and work. Pray for those who feel anxiety or fear at returning to the school.

Faces of Children

• Please keep close in prayer Faces of Children prayer partner Faye Long and her family following the death of Faye’s husband Laddie on April 17, 2014. Pray Christ’s peace will comfort them in their season of loss.
• Please continue to pray that more churches and individuals will join with the ministry of Faces of Children in spreading awareness about children in crisis and inviting more people to pray for children at risk.

In the News ... "West Texas bishop reflects on popes’ canonizations"

John XXIII (left) and John Paul II were canonized Sunday by Pope Francis

Bishop Michael Sis

Rich Lopez, Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram

SAN ANGELO, TEXAS - The canonization of Popes John XXIII and John Paul II today in St. Peter’s Square is an important moment in the Catholic Church. Some see it as Pope Francis’ way of uniting liberal and conservative factions of the church. Others question the pope’s slight departure from tradition. But Bishop Michael Sis of the Diocese of San Angelo sees it as a progressive step for Catholics.

“This helps all of us to view Pope Francis in the context of the foundation John the XXIII and John Paul provided. He is building on what they did and affirming the heritage they have provided, therefore placing himself as the inheritor of that who seeks to continue the heritage,” Sis said.

The recognition of both popes resonates particularly with Sis and the San Angelo Diocese.

• read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

EQUATORIAL GUINEA - In Equatorial Guinea, society turns to elders for wisdom and direction. And it is overwhelmingly to men that they look. But when something needs done in the church, it turns to the women, the backbone of congregations. The women provide their services as offerings, at no small cost to their families. It takes courage and delicate balance for a young woman to lift her voice. Ms. Ana Maria Obono Nbeso shows respect for tradition yet finds ways to express her views as an educated woman with a heart for the church. She speaks thoughtful words, as I saw when she shared her vision of God’s church at a special churchwide gathering called to look at challenges facing the church in Equatorial Guinea.

CLICK HERE to read more.