The Heart of Missions

This week we had the pleasure of visiting with Jack and Audrey Hicks, missionaries and mentors to those in ministry.  We enjoyed the services in their home church, Freedom Worship Center, and then went on to have a time of fellowship and sharing.

The Hicks' have served as pastors, missionaries, and mentors.  As you sit and visit with them they quickly make their passion evident; they love people.  Such is the heart of those who have been in the presence of the Father, who have found what God calls important, who share the values that mark out the reality of the Kingdom of God.  They willingly set their own lives, careers, dreams, and fortunes at risk in order to see the will of God done in the earth.

Be it on the streets of Columbia or in the neighborhoods of their rural Pennsylvania community, Jack and Audrey are living to make the Name of God great among men by leading others into a personal, powerful relationship with Jesus Christ.  Seeing people born again is not enough, Jack and Audrey are committed to seeing those they interact with walk out the life of the Kingdom here on earth.

Life is filled with choices.  Jack and Audrey have chosen to live in fellowship and active agreement with God and His will for their life.  They are changing the world, sometimes one life at a time.  Whether here or abroad, the positive influence of these children of the living God are the kind of people we can all be proud to know, support, and emulate.

Well Said

Each week I get an e-newsletter from a cherished friend in ministry.  Pastors Virgil and Judy Stokes pastor Faith Christian Fellowship in Tucson, AZ.  They have a real heart for missions that has resulted in an international impact that is worth emulating.  Please take a minute to hear this word of encouragement.

Posted: Saturday, November 22, 2008

Building People of Substance for Works of Power

Thank God for you! 

 

I went in for breakfast this morning and found Doña Maria Inez cooking eggs and chiles.  The odor of fresh tortillas was in the air.  We are in Nezahualcoyotl beginning the third day of a Bible School class: Sanidad Divina.  It is normal for her to be preparing breakfast, but what made this morning different was she was wearing an overcoat and head scarf because of the cold.  It has been chilly this trip, and in this humble Mexican home, there is no heat.  Last night, shortly before class started at 6, I was about to open my mouth to complain about my numbed extremities when I looked up and saw the room filling with students.  They were young and old, male and female, and all bundled up as they found seats in the stark concrete garage with double doors wide open for the cold breeze to blow in. Little kids played indoors dressed as if for a snowball fight.  I had to shut my mouth and marvel that 20 to 30 precious people were coming to sit for 2-4 hours a day on hard wooden benches in the dimly lit cold because they want to grasp a Message of faith that has the promise of freedom to them and the ones they love.

 

There is the pastor from Guerrero who rides a donkey up a mountain to preach, then walks to a bus, then a train to get here. Once here he sleeps in an unheated room with no door because he wants to be a better shepherd. There are the pastors of 2 churches where we will speak tomorrow.  There is 63 year old Don Roberto who will take us in the morning on his weekly 2 hour ride to another country church that he has started, and that is waiting for us to train a pastor for them.  There are teens preparing for ministry, children’s teachers, evangelists, musicians, and youth leaders, all striving to grow.  As we sit in our mostly padded pews this Sunday and enjoy the teaching of the Word over sound equipment oh-so-fine in auditoriums warm and comfy, it would be a good idea to utter a word of thanksgiving to the God who has entrusted us with such a precious commodity as this Word.  Never forget the high value that others place on the Message we so frequently take for granted.

 

Scripture Reading:  "Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful." (1 Corinthians 4:1-2 NKJV)

 

Somebody Said:  "Some people are born on third base and go through life thinking they hit a triple." - Barry Switzer

 

It is a privilege to be able to work with you in finding ways to get this Message to places and people that otherwise could not hope to receive it.  The sense of gratitude I have for what I have been given includes gratitude for each one who has teamed with us in the quest.  

Happy Thanksgiving.

Pastor Virgil Stokes

www.fcftucson.org

Welcome to Pennsylvania

Erie Pennsylvania has become home to a new pastor, a church pioneer, and a man whose love for God is only rivaled by his love for people.  Phil Richiuso and his lovely wife Elaine have moved to Erie, PA, on the coast of one of America's Great Lakes, from the coastal pain of New Jersey.  They are stepping out in faith to plant a new church with the Four Square Churches.

We have known Phil and Elaine for almost two decades.  They have served in missions in Russia, Belarus, and other Soviet Block countries.  They are strongly committed to missions and the fulfillment of the Great Commission.

These two understand the role and power of the Local Church.  They have faithfully served others, sown into the visions of those they served, and built the dreams of those who faithfully led them in the building of the Kingdom of God.  Now it is their turn to lead.

If you get a chance, come out, join the team, become part of the family and see what God will do.  Look out Erie, here comes the power of God!

Pastor Appreciation

The Scriptures say, "How lovely on the mountains are the feet of them that bring good news."  Have you ever looked at feet, ugly.  Having been to nations where feet are subjected to rougher treatment than we have here, this statement takes on even greater irony.  But I know how very precious those who preach the Gospel are.

Saturday night was our annual Pastor Appreciation Banquet where we had the chance to honor those who have stepped up to lead the church to the destiny God has for it.  It can be a pretty thankless job, and I am always blessed to see people honor their pastor.

Pastors are people just like those they serve.  They have the same challenges, fight the same battles, and are expected to get it exactly right every time.  They don't, any more than you do.  We, as the people they serve, need to get in behind them and make them a success.

Long-term Relationships

This passed week we had the pleasure of sitting under the ministry of friends of 17 years, missionaries to Belgium and Europe.  Steve and Karen Yohe always bring a word in season, but their sensitivity to the Holy Spirit and willingness to yield to His leading makes them powerful ministers.

The Yohes have faithfully served in Belgium since just after we met them.  They pioneered a church there and have based out of Belgium to do outreaches to Poland, Germany, and France.  They have been an inspiration to many who have been privileged to sit under their ministry.

There is a lot to be said for faithfulness.  In the face of adversity, trials, and challenges, they have stayed in faith, clung to what God has called them to do, the vision God has given them.

Steve and Karen have met the ultimate measure of success, they have obeyed God.  The exciting part is, they are not done.  The best is yet to come!

Confrontation

What do you do when you run into a major point of contention in ministry?  It is a difficult question because of the people who are affected by our service.  Here are some basics to follow in navigating the hazards of strife.

First, is your issue addressed in the Word?  The things in the Word are black and white.  Either God allows and approves it or He doesn't.  What God approves, we approve, and what God forbids we forbid.  These things are non-negotiable.  We cannot compromise, even if it means we offend people or run afoul of what is culturally accepted.

What if the Word is silent?  I have yet to find an issue that is not addressed in the Word, so I have to say this is a question that comes for people looking for self justification.

Harder questions are found when they are based on relational and values differences.  Just because we call ourselves Christian doesn't mean we truly measure up to the standards of what God calls Christian.  These issues often cause us great stress and trouble.

Not everyone in the Church shares the same values.  This isn't a new problem, and I imagine it is something that has existed as long as there has been flesh on the earth.  Differing opinions of when a deviation from the truth becomes a lie, what constitutes theft, when not keeping one's word is acceptable, and so on.  Often I have heard that I was not walking in love or forgiveness when I have been forced to confront such departure from the standard of the Word.

Paul gives us great insight in how to deal with such matters.  He "calls a spade a spade" and reveals the biblical standard to which we must adhere, and held both the individuals and leadership accountable accordingly.  He advocates private confrontation followed by a witnessed confrontation.  If these do not produce repentance and a return to biblical standards, a public action is in order.  As a last resort, an obvious extreme action, the offender was to be excluded from fellowship for the sake of the body.

Now understand, the goal of any confrontation is reconciliation and restoration.  While we cannot guarantee that one who is in error will turn back to the truth, we must stay in position to restore those who do. 

Don't be afraid of confrontation, but make certain you get it right.  Approach every confrontation with prayer and discernment.  Rely on the power and leading of the Holy Spirit to guide your actions in love and compassion.  But, don't hesitate to confront the things that need to be addressed.

Let me give you an example.  A minister is in financial difficulty and asks to borrow $100.00 dollars from you.  In your compassion you loan him the money with the understanding that you will be repaid within 30 days.  By the end of the month you have received $75.00, and the minister apologizes profusely and promises to make good on the debt within two weeks.  It is the last you hear from him on the matter.  What are you to do?  If you immediately think forgiveness, I must ask, would you forgive it so easily if it was 100 times as much.  The principle of integrity and faithfulness is the same.  Even if you choose the course of forgiveness, you need to confront the offender.  If you don't, you become complicit in the crime.

The biblical pattern of Matthew 18 now comes into play.  1.  Go to the offender and confront him.  Ideally, this is where repentance happens, the debt is paid, and all is well with the world.  If not ... 2. Take a witness and once again confront the offender, presenting your case, and seeking reconciliation.  Again, ideally, repentance is the result.  If not ... 3.  Take it before the church, that is, bring the issue before the local church to which this person is connected.  This not only puts additional pressure on the offender, it gives more witnesses, gives more opportunity for discernment, and makes the Body aware of the problem.  If that still does not result in a change in behavior and satisfaction of the debt, the next thing to do is to act to exclude the offender from fellowship until they repent and reconcile.

This can seem harsh, can result in additional problems, and can be costly, which may be why so many people don't bother.  Ask yourself, do you love them enough to help them overcome their destructive and offensive behavior?  Do you care enough to turn them from their hellish path?

We need to be committed to upholding God's measure of a man's character, God's standard of morality, and godly integrity.  Together we can be a people of biblical values, of godly character, and of life God approves of.  May we pay the price of integrity ans see God pour out His favor on the Church as a result.

Cheer Them On

Some people in our lives just make our day.  They are beacons of faith and hope in our world.  When the turbulence of life becomes overwhelming, we look to them as the lighthouse of hope and find our way through the storm.  For us, Cliff and Christie Graham (http://unisonharvest.com/) are just those kind of people.

Cliff and Christie are missionaries to the youth of the world.  They design and build youth rooms in local churches, do youth conferences and camps internationally, and travel at breakneck speed around the globe for the sake of the Gospel.  They deserve to be in the category of heroes for their tenacity in the face of adversity, their passion in the midst of an ambivalent world, and for their unwavering commitment to take the Good News of the Gospel to those who are shaping the future.

I have watched them go through things that would have sidelined the average minister and bankrupted the common believer, but not them.  They clung to the truth of the Word, encouraged themselves in the faithfulness of God, and accomplished the impossible.  We love them as if they are our own family, because they are.  We have the same Father.

Pastors, believers, this is the kind of ministry that we should be supporting.  No they aren't celebrities, they don't have a mega-church, they don't do the Christian TV circuit, but they are getting the job done, just doing what Jesus called us to do.  If you get a chance, sit down with them, hear their heart, let them challenge you to a new level of faith, a new level of service, and a new perspective on what it means to take this Gospel to the nations.

Coastal Family Church

We got the chance to meet the folks at Coastal Family Church face-to-face for the first time. (http://www.coastalfamilychurch.com/main.html)  It was a time of encouragment in the Word and celebration in the Holy Ghost that made us feel right at home.  Pastors Stephen and Tiffany are leading a group of people who are sold out to seeing the Gospel taken to all the world while changing their local community.

We couldn't help but feel like we had been at CFC before due to its similarity to our home church, Believers Fellowship Center.  I found myself identifying individuals by the person who filled their role at BFC.  What you may not know is that BFC is our home, the root we cling to to measure whether or not we are staying on track.  They are the ones we identify with as family.  To have CFC feel so closely like our home before we have had a chance to put down roots in the OBX is to have a tie to our new community via DNA that can only happen via the Holy Ghost.  We look forward to what the future holds with these folks when we move.

If you get a chance to stop in or hear Pastor Stephen, jump on it.  You will be blessed.

Wonderful Wave Conference

We are just back from the Wave Conference in Virginia Beach. (http://wavechurch.com/index.aspx?parentnavigationid=1555) The conference featured great speakers and top of the line worship.  We were so encouraged, not just by the word and the worship, but also by the fellowship with people from across the country and around the world.  Speakers this year included:

• Judah Smith  (http://www.generationchurch.org/)
• Joel Houston  (http://www2.hillsong.com/default.asp)
• Bayliss Conley  (http://www.cottonwood.org/)
• Chris Hill  (http://www.chrishill.org/main.htm)
• Mark Crow (http://www.victorychurch.tv/p/5949/Default.aspx)
• Steve Kelly  (http://wavechurch.com/index.aspx?parentnavigationid=1555)
• Scott Wilson
• AND MORE!

Three cheers to Pastors Steve and Sharon Kelly and their team for a job well done on putting together a great conference in their new facility.  I know there were challenges, but you did a fantastic job.

Pastors Steve and Sharon have been providing leadership in Virginia Beach for ten years.  They have taken a wounded church, brought healing and infused it with life through sharing a vision that is bigger than this church has ever been.  They didn't stop with the vision, they have gone on to build a team that has provided the leadership that it has taken to lift this church to greatness.  I like something Pastor Steve said this week.  "Don't try and build a great church, build great people.  A great church is the fruit of great people."

Having been in lots of churches over the course of the past year, it was a refreshing time to be back at the Wave Church.  They are friends and families to us and always make our visit full of life and encouragement.

I would invite you to make plans now for next year's Wave Conference.  It well be held August 5-7, 2009.  You can register now by calling (757)481-5005.  See you there!

What Makes A Church Worthwhile?

My wife and I were talking yesterday about what it is that keeps people hooked up to a church.  If you know us you might not be surprised that we have very differing views on many subjects, Lynn being a "Purple" person and me being "Crimson Red," but on this we have agreement.  People hook up with a church that touches their deepest needs, the needs of the inner man.

My mother-in-law feels the need to be brow beaten and told what a sinner she is, thus she is drawn to those who preach a fiery message of damnation and judgment.  My brother is eagerly anticipating the end of the world and is drawn to those who claim a special prophetic anointing.  I myself am drawn to those who preach "the whole counsel of God", that is, the Bible "from Genesis to Maps" as my pastor used to say.  I want practical Christian teaching for practical Christian living.

I was listening to Joel Osteen the other day and realized what it is that draws tens of thousands to his church.  Joel is an encourager, a cheerleader of champions.  After being under his ministry you feel like you can take on the devil, overcome temptation, and even walk on water if the need arose.  Isn't this what church is about?  Anyone can tell you you're a sinner, and it wouldn't even be a revelation.  All have sinned, and all know it.  The question is, who can give you a cure and lead you out to victorious Christian living?

Sometimes I come out of a service and wonder why people go to the church I just visited?  The pastor may say what the Bible says, but he says it with condemnation or condescension and you come away feeling depressed, beat down, and defeated.  Another minister can say the same thing with a different attitude and bring you to the place where you feel like you can overcome, be victorious, and live the life God intended.  Pastors, which message are you preaching?

I have come to really enjoy the ministry of Keith Moore. (www.moorelifeministries.org) He doesn't mince words when talking about sin, but he gives you what you need to beat it.  When I get to preach, that is my goal as well.  I like hanging out with people like this, people who build up, lift up, and encourage from a genuine heart of love and compassion.  To me, these are the real world changers.

How does Jesus fit into all this?  I'm glad you asked!  If you look at the ministry of Jesus you see Him dealing with three groups:  unbelievers, the "traditional" church, and His disciples.  The only people he is consistently hard on is the "traditional" church.  They were supposed to be the ones giving people what they needed, and instead were blocking people's access to God and keeping them down and depressed.  Jesus gave the masses clear teaching that inspired them to rise to a level that was foreign to them, a level that was far above where they lived, but not unattainable.  He called on them to become what God had created them to be in the first place.  His disciples got a powerful look at both the teaching and how to walk it out as they lived with Jesus day in and day out.  Now it is our turn.

Pastors, be the beacon of hope to your sheep.  Take your staff to a place of transparency where they can see you walk out the principles you are teaching.  Build into your church a culture that sees those who are unbelievers as people worth pursuing.  Go out where they are and let them know what God has for them.  Let them hear the "Good News" that gives them hope and draws them to levels of life that they have never known before.  And, oh yes, take a stand against anything in religion that blocks access to the presence, love, and blessing of the Father.  Remember, Jesus died to give us free and unfettered access, don't be trying to rehang the veil that keeps people from God.  We need not not compromise the message, after all, the whole earth is "groaning in eager expectation waiting for the sons of God to be revealed."  You are the hope and inspiration of a world out of control.  They are looking for your leadership, go get 'em!

Feasting in the Midst of Famine

Psalm 37 says of the righteous, "In the midst of famine, they shall have plenty."  It is a word of promise that should be comforting in these turbulent financial times.  When we listen to the news and talking heads we can grow increasingly anxious over what will happen in the future.  What we should be doing is giving thanks to God.

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."  Phil. 4:6 NKJV

You see, you may have no control over the circumstances or how they will affect your daily living, but you can control what you think about, what you feed on.  If you feed on things that make you worry, anxiety will be the dominant force in your life.

"Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes him glad."  Prov. 12:25 NKJV

While the world is experiencing a feeding frenzy and seems to almost be craving a new Great Depression, that should not be the dream or outcome of the believer.  But, unless you are following God's Word and plan, you will be right there with the world when the house of cards all comes crashing down.  Like finances, your end will be determined by what you invest.  Lots of adages spring to mind, but let it suffice to say, your thought life will determine your direction, thus you need to make sure you think about the right things.

"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of a good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things."  Phil. 4:8  NKJV

Doesn't sound much like the evening news, does it?  This doesn't mean you can't watch the news, but it should not be allowed to dominate your thought life.  If you are going to overcome the circumstances of life in the natural world, you are going to have to learn how to tap into the supernatural so that miraculous things happen in your life.  This is not just for you, but so that you can be a blessing to others.

"Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and feed on His faithfulness.  Delight yourself in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.  Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass."  Psalm 37:3-5 NKJV

Remember, "you are what you eat," and if your diet is 24 hour news channels, it is likely you will be filled with anxiety and depression.  But, if you feed on the faithfulness of God, His power, resources, and willingness to get involved in your life will be the thing that springs to the forefront of your mind.  Remember Sarah?  Past menopause, a geriatric, and married to a guy pushing 100, she is supposed to be giving birth to the family of faith and the nation of Israel.  How did she overcome her circumstance to become a blessing?

"By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised."  Heb. 11:11 NKJV

You see, miraculous things happen when you let your thought life rise to the level of God's realm.  Just like Sarah, when you feed on His faithfulness the impossibility of your circumstance becomes no more than one more opportunity for God to act on your behalf.  Then, in the midst of global famine, economic destitution, or international pandemic, you have an answer that supercedes everything available to those in the world.  If you will be what God has made you to be, if you will draw on the supernatural resources available to all who believe, if you will be a real Christian, a real believer, then you will have help for those in need and hope for those who are without.  You are the answer to the problem!

So Much To Do, So Little Time

We get so busy in ministry, have you noticed?  A service here, a meeting there, one to visit and another to counsel, sometimes it is difficult to keep it all in perspective.  As I travel I am reminded that there is more to this world than the little part of it I inhabit.  What a healthy revelation!

With the hurricanes and flooding in Galveston, how many Americans will forget the Haitians that have no food or shelter or place to go?  How many people will fill their fuel tanks for winter and forget those displaced by the war in Georgia?  They say the news cycle has been compressed to about 36 hours.  Once a headline has dropped from the screen it will quickly be forgotten.  How sad if we can be so easily "pushed by the wind and tossed."  Pastor, here is your chance to shine.  You can keep the perspective by keeping God's heart in front of the people.

What God cares about is PEOPLE.  In the race for President, God cares about people's eternal condition as well as their temporal state.  In the midst of the storm, He is still aware of every windblown hair on their head.  I have always loved Jeremiah 29:11.

"For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord, "plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."

What encouragement we can draw from His words, but only if we have those who will come along side us and speak them into our lives.  Are you being a cheerleader for those around you?

Tuesday I was in Huntington, WV for the New Life Church (http://www.nlconline.org) Campmeeting.  What a wonderful time, a refreshing time, a time of inspiration and encouragement.  As Brother Mark Hankins ministered, I heard the Holy Ghost speak inside me and say,

"Where you are is the starting point, not the end.  This is not a stop along the way.  On this journey there is no reverse so let's get on with what is ahead."

It speaks to my heart and stirs in me a desire to finish the race set before me.  It should also be a word to each of us that reminds us that there is lots more to what is going on than what we have experienced.  As Rev. Jim Kaseman said recently,

"We need to focus on what God has commissioned us to do - reach the lost, train disciples - and know that God will supply everything we need to get the job done."

Let's not loose sight of our goal, not be distracted by the cares of this world, not be led astray by the circumstances that face us, but rather, let us rise with each new day and press on in our destiny to see the will of the Father done in the earth.

What keeps you in church?

As you may know, we travel around a great deal visiting churches of all kinds.  This week we were back with friends at Pittsburgh East.  The worship is, as always, tremendous.  The sermon was great.  The "Kids Stuff" presentation was powerful and inspiring.  After such a good day, I found myself pondering, what is it that keeps us coming back to a church.

We will tolerate mediocre preaching, children's ministry that is lacking, and off key music as long as we don't have them all at the same time.  But, we will tolerate a mediocre service IF the thing that makes church valuable for us is present.

Jesus said, "By this shall all men know that you are my disciples if you have love one for another."  A church where you know or at least feel you are loved is a church where you will find it easy to "stick."

I see this at PECC.  These are people who genuinely care for each other.  They love their pastors, cheer their membership, and seem like one big extended family.  It doesn't take very long to feel the love here.  Youth loving on the little guys, staff loving on "the sheep", congregation loving on the Father, ... you get the picture.

As I took in all that was going on around me, I thought, "I could be part of this church."  Apparently, others feel the same way.  The church is growing, the community is noticing, and the city of Pittsburgh will never be the same.

Three cheers to Pastor Lee and his staff, to all those who give of themselves in ministry, and to those who make up PECC for building a church that is salt and light in the Pittsburgh area.

Getting the Job Done

Many ministries talk a great line about what they claim to be doing or what they have planned for the future. Not unlike those in the business world, we have big dreams and hope for future success. Sometimes what is accomplished is somewhat less than what we dream, but we keep putting on a good face and pressing forward. That is laudable, and I try to encourage those who are pressing on to their destiny.

While some ministries don't measure up to their advertising, I want to introduce you to one that exceeds what you would expect from reading their materials. Robert Dunphy is a man who walks in a genuine New Testament anointing. His outreach, Robert Dunphy Ministries, Inc. (http://www.bobdunphy.org/ or http://www.robertdunphyministries.org/) is an internationally impacting ministry.

I have had the pleasure of seeing first hand what the ministry is doing in Burkina Faso, West Africa, been present in services where Br. Dunphy has ministered in the US, and seen the changes in people who have benefited from Br. Bob's submission to the Father's leading.

Reports from Africa include four people raised from the dead, yes, certified to have been dead and raised to life when either Bob or one of his staff have prayed for them. Also reported are hundreds of people receiving deliverance from demon possession. These people were literally chained to trees to control their destructive and extreme behavior. Some delivered with just a word, others with great struggle, but all who have been brought have been set free as either Bob or one of those he has trained have come to the aid of those in need. Add to this the hundreds who have been healed of various diseases or injuries and the thousands who have received Christ as their Lord and Savior and you have a wonderful story that reads much like the Book of Acts.

Back in the states people are experiencing the same impact on their lives in the reports are being shared. One woman who had been diagnosed with mesothelioma, an incurable form of lung cancer, was certified to have been completely headed when Br. Bob laid his hands on her. This is typical of the services that happen here in the States. Blind eyes opened, cancer gone, blood disorders disappear, AIDS completely healed, and more. This is a ministry that restores hope in the preaching of the power of God on behalf of men.

Now, as if that is not enough, there is another side of this ministry that you need to know about. RDM also is the overseeing body for Child's Hope, an outreach which supplies the needs of thousands of orphans across Burkina. In addition, they are building orphanages, schools, and clinics to meet the needs of a nation marked by poverty and death. They support more than 1,200 widows and 300 pastors and are building a strong Christian community in an Islamic nation.

If you would like to be a partner with a ministry that has such great success and impact, you can get more information by contacting their offices.

http://www.bobdunphy.org/ or http://www.robertdunphyministries.org/

Stepping Up to the Plate

Step Up ... Step Out!

I had a wonderful visit by phone with a friend down south. I was thrilled with his excitement, exhuberance, and abandon in celebrating what God is doing in his part of the world. He has seen that numbers are no indication of success, but rather, it is when the people we serve are inspired to a greater hunger, a deeper intimacy for the Father that we are truly successful. He is seeing his church rise to a desire to see the manifest presence of God in every service, not so they can get their goosebumps going, but so that the needs of people can be met. What a wonderful spirit has descended on the house and God is getting all the glory.

Shortly we will be making our move south, finally. I am excited as we move to see the level of expectation and ministry for the area we are moving to. I miss preaching, but I love being part of what God is doing through the Local Church.

What about you? Are you excited to be part of what God is doing in your community? Are you willing to be the vehicle of His anointing that breaks every yoke? Will you be the Father's point of contact here on the earth for those who desperately need His touch? Rise up! Be what He has made you to be in the first place, the expression of His image and likeness. Go out where the people are and make a difference. Let those who know you see Him. They are waiting for you!

Christopher Laurie Moved to Heaven

Please pray for the family of Christopher Laurie, son of Pastor Greg Laurie. Christopher died in an auto accident leaving a pregnant wife, Brittany, and beautiful little girl, Stella. Oh that the Father would be their comfort and strength.

2008 has been a very tough year for us and for those who are our friends in ministry. I have lost so many friends and family that I don't want to go to one more funeral or memorial service this year.

How does one justify the losses of those who are righteous, those who are innocent, those with so much life to look forward to, and those who are taken from us far too soon? Teh reality is, you cannot. A beautiful, vibrant, and dedicated young woman taken on a country road in the dark of night, why? A darling and precious little girl taken in the middle of the night, how could this happen? A dear friend lost to us at the tender age of sixty-something, how could he go so young? Babies lost, friends passing, loved ones ... how can we make sense of it all? The reality is, you cannot. We have such a fragile existence, and it can so quickly gone, but we do not always keep the reality in perspective.

Two things stand out as I pray over such events, asking God for the insight and wisdom to deal with these tragedies. First, life happens. So much of what goes on is not a product of God's actions or the devil's diabolic plots. It is just life. We make bad decisions, take bad actions, and leave so much open to failure, all because we just didn't think or listen or obey like we should. Additionally, we have a real enemy who is out to steal from us, to kill us, and to wipe all memory of us out of existence. If we give him an opening, he'll exploit it. Don't let this be true of you.

Together we press on and get through the hard times, thank God. This is what the family of God is for, why we meet together, pledge ourselves to one another, and stand in intercession for our brothers and sisters. We need each other.

Building the Kingdom, One Friend at a Time

I spend lots of time on the road traveling to meet with those who are on the front lines of ministry. Some of those who I meet are purely by divine appointment are the most wonderful stories to hear. That was the case with my recent trip to Tulsa, OK.

Ministers all start somewhere, and Dave is just at the entrance ramp to ministry. As a student in his second year of bible school, Dave is learning what it means to flow in the gifting God has put on his life. I love talking to those whose level of anticipation and excitement about ministry is so fresh and encouraging.

Dave is experiencing the tangible leading and empowerment of the Spirit of God. He sees the vision of the ministry ahead of him and cannot wait to get going. He is investing himself in school, learning all he can. He has his values and priorities in order and will be a great man of God.

As one committed to the success of those in ministry, I love meeting people like Dave. They remind me of why the call of God is so powerful. They renew in me the excitement of following God in the course of daily life and ministry.

Those of you who have proteges coming up under your ministry, do all that you can to foster their excitement and encourage their vocation. The Father is seeking to use them, and your investment in them will not be in vain.

As for Dave, we will be praying for him on a regular basis, encouraging him every chance we get, and tracking his progress in ministry. What a great opportunity to be a part of what God is doing in the earth.

The Value of a Local Church

Since I got saved I have always been part of a Local Church. I haven't always appreciated the value of these relationships, but I have always valued them.

So let’s do it—full of belief, confident that we’re presentable inside and out.
Let’s keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. He always keeps his
word. Let’s see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not
avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially
as we see the big Day approaching.
Peterson, E. H. (2003). The Message : The Bible in contemporary
language (Heb 10:22-25). Colorado Springs, Colo.: NavPress.

You see, we need each other. We have so much that is of value to one another, so much to make our brothers and sisters a success in living the Christian life. We need those who come along side to cheer us on, to encourage us, to build one another up, and to help each other realize our destiny together. We need to be speaking into one another's lives, sharing the truth that produces faith, and letting God speak through us. No, we are not all called to pulpit ministry, but Jesus did call us all to preach.

And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every
creature."
The New King James Version. 1982 (Mk 16:15). Nashville: Thomas
Nelson.

As we think about this we are often intimidated, but the truth is we don't need to come up with some rehearsed speech or clever argument, but rather, we need do nothing more than share the reality of what the Lord has done in our lives. We are here to share the Good News!

1. Good news, the healing God promised is real, I know because He has healed me of my sickness and disease.
2. Good news, God answers prayer, I know because He answers my prayers.
3. Good news, you can have peace in the midst of your turmoil, I know because He has given me the peace that passes all understanding.
4. Good news, God will set you free, I know you can have it, because I have been set free.
5. Good news, I know how you can have a sense of security that will keep you on top of any and every situation, I know because He has given me the safety and security that has changed my world.
6. Good news, God has a plan for your life, a plan to give you so much blessing, so many good things that you haven't even begun to imagine, I know because I am walking out HIs plan for me and am overwhelmed by His goodness.
7. God loves you, God wants to have an intimate personal friendship with you, to make you part of His family, and that is the best news of all.

Let us not forget how we got into the kingdom. Someone cared enough to tell us about the good news, to share with us what had become reality to them. As a result of what they "preached" to us, we joined God's family and now have a life that we could only have dreamed about before we met Christ.

This is what we, the Local Church, do. Then we join as members of the same family, gather to encourage one another, gather to disciple one another, and gather to make one another a success in following after God with all our hearts.

Wonderful Inroduction to TNT Church, NJ

We had the wonderful experience of meeting another part of the church family this week as we visited the New Testament Church of Mt. Olive, NJ. Pastors Bonnie and Arlo made us feel welcome and at home, and Rev. Phil Richiuso brought a message of hope and encouragement entitled "So You Want To Go Fishing."

New Testament Church (http://www.tntchurchnj.com/) is a Four Square Church. (http://www.foursquare.org/) This local church is very much in touch with their local community and ready to walk into a strong future. They have a great facility, an anointed worship team, and a committed staff. The congregation welcomes visitors with warm open arms and let's you know how valuable they feel you are.

TNTC has a contemporary worship style and Pastor Bonnie preaches the Word without apology.

If you are in the Mt. Olive area and looking for a church home, check out TNTC, you may find it to be all that you are looking for.

AFCM Overnighter

April 24/25 we had the joy of gathering with other members of AFCM for the Northeast Regional Overnighter with our founders, Jim and Kathleen Kaseman. (http://afcminternational.org/) It was a refreshing time of fellowship and impartation as we spent precious time together in fellowship around the Word. Br. Kaseman not only shared his heart for the future of AFCM, but he also brought some clear direction from the heart of God about dealing with false doctrine and regarding the next move of God that has already begun. While some people would shy away from "controversy" our leadership has met it head on and given us solid biblical counsel on each and every issue.

During this gathering we were able to renew old friendships, catch up with distant friends, and meet new folks. The Lord said, "It isn't good for man to be alone," and it is so easy to see the value of our friendship. We are not alone in our challenges and should not celebrate our victories alone either. We need each other.

Let me give a shout out for our Regional Director, Pastor Lowell MacDonald. He and his lovely wife Joan have done a great job of leading our region and give us a wonderful example of how to live with integrity and honor as ministers. We love you guys and pray for you daily.

Our thanks to Dr. and Kathleen Kaseman. Without your vision and encouragement we would truly be adrift. Thanks for being consistent and stable in your leadership, committed in the value you place on the Word, and your example of generosity to which we can rise in faith. You are in our hearts and prayers as you go forward in what God has called you to do.

Beware False Doctrine

As we travel and interact with others in ministry, I am at times distressed by those who espouse positions and doctrines that fly in the face of the whole of the Scriptures. As you know, by "cherry picking" verses, you can make the Bible support any position you choose. BUT, those who honestly hold the Scriptures in total to be the full expression of the Father's heart cannot tolerate pet doctrines.

In a recent visit I was exposed to more false doctine in one hour than I did in all of the years before I came to Christ. How sad to have a congregation that is subjected to such teaching. I feel sad for the sheep in that most of them not only won't dig in to find the truth for themselves, but they are ill equipped to know how to discover the truth through study. While I trust the Holy Ghost to guide believers into the truth, I am aware of Paul's words to the Galations about being "bewitched." Those who have not been exposed to solid teaching will trust the leadership to take them in the right direction, and we who lead will be judged accordingly.

I remind you leaders to be certain that you are teaching the truth as revealed from Genesis to Revelation. Make certain that you are not just teaching some doctrine you learned but have not studied out for yourself.

I remind those of you who are in the pews, 2 Timothy 2:15 was written to you. "Study to show yourself approved ..."

Finally, I remind you that we are all to be submitted to one another, keeping each other acountable, keeping each other on track.

For more information on the things I'm running into, see my posts at http://faithprevails.org/HotTopics.dsp -OR- http://murphygang.netforums.us/viewforum.php?f=24

Think About It

Have you ever thought about what you would change about how someone else does things? I think we all do that. But as we go through life, we should be sensitive to the things other people see in our lives. We should be open to the things in our lives that might need to change. As pastors we should be aware of the truth of an old adage, "As goes the head, so goes the body."

Where are you leading your flock? Are you so tied to the past that your still only singing stuff from the 70's? You see, if you aren't able to change with the times, neither will your church. How often have I heard pastors complain that their young people are leaving in droves, but is that because we are anchored to the past and can't find a way to relate to them?

I am amazed by the Hillsongs Church and how well they do church. Their congregation is huge and has a wonderful cross-section of age groups. It is nothing to see senior citizens worshiping side-by-side with teens, to see singles and marrieds shoulder to shoulder. Their worship is so rich and moving, and not at the expense of the past, to the contrary, you'll hear hymns and old choruses mixed with brand new expressions of worship. True, the older stuff may have a new arrangement, but you know all the words. And they are changing their world.

I'm not here to dictate how you should do church, but let me encourage you to be courageous in the face of change. Let your past be a launchpad for the ministry you have today. Remember, were are enjoined to hold fast to the good, and just because it provokes a memory or a feeling doesn't make it good. What God is doing, that is what is good. Get in there and do it with Him.

What is a friend worth?

Life has a way of teaching us things that we might miss otherwise.

This past weekend we had the chance to visit with friends who pastor St. John's Church (http://www.saintjohnschurch.us/) in Grantsville, MD. St Johns is a traditional church with some contemporary crossover elements. The pastors, Jerry and Judi Rogers, have been dear friends of ours for years and have served in three different pastorates since we have known them.

I am reminded by my visit of how vitally important these two precious people have been to our lives. At a time when I was ready to leave the ministry it was Jerry who came along side and encouraged me in my calling and vision. Where we were hurting, they brought healing, and I couldn't be more grateful. After their ministry to us we went on to pioneer Household of Faith and saw 16 wonderful years of success.

Jerry and Judi are great pastors. You cannot be in their presence without knowing that you are loved and that they place a high value on you. No matter where you fit in the body, they always have a place for you. It is obvious that they have what it takes to build a strong church, look at what they have accomplished.

Jerry comes from a sordid and corrupt past, no stranger to the vices of men. Judi's background is as pure as Jerry's is corrupt. It took a miracle to bring them together and make them the successful team that today set such a wonderful example for the flock they lead and the ministers around them. It isn't that they don't have problems, flaws, or failings, it is just that they have shown how to handle them with God. These two are in my book of heroes, and I encourage you to let them be an example of what it means to follow God.

The life lesson here: friends are of inestimable value, cherish them.

If you are in the Grantsville area stop by St. Johns and enjoy the worship, the solid biblical teaching, and inspiring leadership of Jerry and Judi Rogers. You will be blessed.

What are you doing to make the neighborhood better?

I have been thinking more about what God has done in many of the churches I have been visiting lately. Several are good sized, healthy, and prosperous. Many others are small churches where the lives of people are so entwined that church and family are one in the same. They have great vision, but little resource to work with. As I think about my own experience as Pastor, I realize that most of these pastors are just like me. They work hard, invest themselves in building relationships and pulling the team together to build the vision God has given them. They aren't asking for help and would likely be shocked if it was offered. But shouldn't we be helping each other?

Hebrews 10 says, "Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together ... let us consider one another ... provoking one another to love and good works." We are supposed to be on the same winning team. We are supposed to be headed for the same goal, to bring people into the Kingdom. There is no need for competition, no room for shutting each other out, and a clear mandate from our Lord to contribute to one another's success. Are we?

Pastor, who are you helping succeed, not just inside your four walls? Whose vision are you helping bring to manifestation? Who sees you as a partner for their success and feels teamed together with you? Remember, "Two are better than one, ... and a threefold cord is not easily broken." We can do more together than we can ever do alone. Let's take time to "consider one another," be proactive, and, TOGETHER, change our world.

"...and be thankful."

Over and over we are enjoined to be thankful by the Word. We have so much to be thankful for, and yet we seem so negligent at times. Let me see if I can make up for lost time.

• I am so thankful that God gave me time and opportunity to meet Christ and learn to love Him.
• I am thankful that the grace of God gave me a wonderful wife and five kids I am proud to brag on.
• I am forever grateful for the great men of God who have invested themselves in my destiny. Br. Nat Saginario - who gave us the opportunity to discover and then answer the call of God on our lives; Pastor Wayne Elston - who had enough security in his calling to share his pulpit and classrooms with those of us God sent across his path; Lowell MacDonald - a friend, mentor, and encourager.
• My heart swells with joy at the thought of the likes of Kenneth E. Hagin, Billy Graham, Charles Stanley, AW Tozer, FF Bosworth, and other great fathers of faith whose insight into the Word and ability to communicate the heart of the Father have changed my life.
• I am unable to express my gratitude to all of the ministers who have shared the Word at conferences, services, and gatherings. Peers, students, teachers, and so many more that I cannot begin to list.

The Lord is so good to me, I only hope that He will use me to be good to someone else.

What about you? Who are you investing in? Who are you helping become a success? May our success, all that we have learned, and all that God has done in us become the stepping stones to other's success.

Check Out Pittsburgh East

We had a great first time visit at Pittsburgh East Community Church.

Pittsburgh East was founded in 1976 as a Bible study by Pastor Lee Kichner. It has grown into a wonderful and dynamic fellowship that is changing the face of Pittsburgh.

Today's service was typical of what you will find at Pittsburgh East. The worship was amazing, the word was powerful, and the congregation made us feel right at home. The church shows the power of vision and what can be accomplished when people work together in agreement.

The way they have designed the Children's Ministry area is really creative and reflects a connection to the local community. The whole wing is done in a Main Street theme with a Post Office, hardware store, candy store, community center and "Savings and Trust." The Children's Auditorium is done in a movie theater theme outside and stage theater theme inside. The outside is decked with posters that are parody's of popular movies in Gospel remakes. It was quite impressive and professional in every respect.

At Pittsburgh East you will find an alive and vital ministry to young people who have outgrown "The Underground" and are impacting their community. Though the congregation is large, they maintain a close knit community through "xcel" Groups which meet inside and outside the church building. Couples with young children find the freedom to be part of xcel through the ministry of xcel.central at the church. Childcare is provided during their xcel group meeting. The strength and vitality of this congregation says what they are doing is working!

Check out their web site, and, if you are in the area, stop in.
http://www.pittsburgheast.com/flash/index.html

You Are Not Alone

From the insightful pen of my friend, Pastor Virgil Stokes:

"I thank God that I am not alone in this world. I am hopelessly unqualified to survive without help. Last week I was in Panama City. While there, I rented a car and drove to various destinations. Left to my own devices, the only place I know how to find is Pastor Vicente’s house and that is only if I start from the airport. Fortunately, Vicente was with me everywhere else I had to go. We are a team. I let him know that I was totally lost, so he had to let me know what lane to get in and warn me ahead of time if I needed to turn. We negotiated many fascinating situations. Going over one bridge, we came to a traffic circle. Vicente warned that I needed to turn right at the third opportunity. He let me know that drivers from the first 2 entrances would be barging in, and then at the last minute I should watch my left side, as others would be swerving in front of me to make the same turn I was going for. He described the situation very accurately, and with great fear, trembling, and angelic intervention we negotiated the turn - vehicles parting before us just like the sea in Exodus. Arriving downtown, we drove down a relatively calm 2-way street. “Turn left here,” he said. I did so, then was admonished, “Stay to the left, stay to the left. This street you drive on the left.” “Oh, a one-way, I suppose.” “No. For this one block, all traffic drives on the left.” To confirm this I looked up and noted oncoming traffic passing to my right. Question: Did I miss a sign. Answer: No. This is the only drive-to-the-left street in Panama. It lasts only one block, and there is no sign. You just have to know. Thank God for a friend in the car who knows!

"As we proceed through life and ministry, we need a friend who knows - one who can foresee difficulties and warn us of odd situations coming up. As ministers, we know some things about the Word. We may have some training or background in business, or administration, or whatever. Doing the daily work of ministry, however, requires more than knowing some information, or even than having great skills and talents. Real life is full of interesting problems and pitfalls, not just unforeseen, but unforeseeable. For this reason, our education must include the opportunity to get some real experience, to get dirty, to make mistakes, and to hear God in the trenches. Every real-life project has adjustments to be made on the move. We need to know how to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit who is always with us. He knows the plans and devices of our enemy. He goes before us in both time and space to spy out the landscape and warn us if the road changes. Our job is to stay alert, keep our ears open, and trust the direction we receive. If I had to give one word of advice to those starting out in ministry it would have to be, 'You are not alone. Don’t try to do it alone. Learn to slow down and pay attention to the oh-so-quiet direction of the Spirit in your heart.'”

Scripture Reading: Then He said, "Go out, and stand on the mountain before the LORD." And behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice. (1 Kings 19:11-12 NKJV)

Elizabeth Kubler-Ross Said: People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out,but when the darkness sets in,their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.

"In the midst of every situation, be it the crush of apparent failure, the condemnation of friends, or just good old self-flagellation and self-centered fear, we have a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Hearing and obeying God separate success from failure, deliverance from disaster, and joy from despair. We are not alone."

Good Word, brother!

Who Is Your Support

For those of us in ministry it can be a lonely walk. Sometimes we feel like we are all alone, we are the modern day Elijah on the mountainside. We feel alone, isolated, and in fear of our future. But! ... like Elijah, we often have no clue about those who are faithfully walking out the call of God on their lives and bringing the plan of God to fruition. We need friends of like precious faith, people who understand where we are coming from, those who share our passion and conviction. But where are they?

The Bible is clear, "He who would have friends must show himself friendly." (Prov. 18:24a) Who are your friends? Who do you have that you can trust to talk to you frankly and openly? Who can you turn to when things aren't going the way you think they should? You need friends.

We are counseled not to get too close to those we serve, think about that for a minute. We may be part of a ministerial fellowship, but how often do we actually spend time with those "friends," how close are we to them, really? We need someone we can get together with over coffee, share breakfast with at the drop of a hat, or go for a walk with to just get things off our chest.

Pastors are notorious for running off with their secretaries, but why are we surprised? We isolate them in ivory towers, put pressure on their families and hold them to unrealistic expectations. They turn to someone they feel they can talk to, a secretary, choir director, or other staff member who has shown they care and listen to their hurting heart. Before they realize, they are in a boat that is being tossed, turned and going down. The thing that was supposed to be their "salvation" becomes their destruction. The pain of isolation turns into the pain of destruction. And it all could have been avoided if they just had a real friend.

My best friend in ministry is a wonderful man of God named Jerry Rogers. He is a real friend. He can listen to my whining and tell me what a baby I am. He cries with me in my suffering, laughs with me in my joy, and celebrates my victories. I know he is praying for me in my trials. And you can be sure, I'm not going to run off to the Bahamas with him! He is my friend, and that is worth more than anything I own or dream of possessing. His support has saved my life; that is a bit extreme, but it is because of Jerry that I am still in ministry.

Who do you have? Who can God speak through to change your life?

At the church I pastored last I broke the rules; I let the men of our church into my life. I let myself be open and honest with them. I chose to let them see that I have problems and how I dealt with them. In turn, I had a church like nothing I have ever experienced before. Our men became the spiritual leaders of their homes, the leaders and teachers in our church, and a strong influence for the Kingdom of God in our community. They have been my friends, my lifeline, my help in time of trouble. We are family, some have found the ties here have become stronger than the blood ties that brought them to earth.

Who do you have; who's your friend?

The Barnabas Project exists to be friends to those in ministry. We reach out to you to champion your success in life, your success in ministry, and your success in fulfilling the plan of God for your life. But we can only do so much. Reach out to someone close by, be a friend, and get someone involved in your life that will help you be what God called you to be. Chose carefully, follow the leading of the Holy Ghost, and maintain your integrity. Success is yours!

Men Make A Difference

For years while I was growing up I thought men didn't go to church unless they had to. Men were not leaders, were not teachers, and did not get involved. How refreshing it is to see men get involved and become what God has called them to be.

Pastors, go after your men. They are looking for someone who will challenge them to rise to what it means to be a real man. Jesus called 12 men to join Him in fulfilling the plan of God. They were real men, hard working and able to make a difference. 11 of those men went on to change the world.

You may need to change the way you do things, and become more of a leader, but it will be worth it. You may need to invest yourself in things you wouldn't normally be interested in, but it will be worth it. You may have to watch a race, shoot a gun, bait a hook, or don a hard hat, but it will be worth it.

God appreciates what it means to be a man, it was He who challenged Job to "quit yourself like a man." Now it is our turn to lead this generation of men into a personal, practical, powerful relationship with the Father.

Stay Ready

I remember being in a sales meeting years ago and hearing Zig Ziglar say, "You are going to spend a lot more time dead than you are alive, make your plans accordingly." It wasn't a Christian meeting, but he was not ashamed to address the issue of our mortality. I want to echo that today, be ready, stay ready, and leave this earth with no regrets.

It seems I have heard of way too many people who have died recently. Dear friends of ours lost their little one year old daughter, My grandmother lost her sister, and today I got word of the loss of another dear friend. I really got sown over the loss of little Lauren. A precious life stolen in the night, it just isn't right. I was less moved by Aunt Sis's passing, after all, she was in her 80's, had lived a full life, and had set under the preaching of the Gospel for her whole life. Today's news, while sad, is not a defeat. My friend Jim was a champion in faith. I watched him beat cancer, not once, but twice. He was alive and vibrant, active in his church, and an unapologetic witness for our Lord. I will miss having breakfast with him, will miss his encouragement, and will likely long for his childlike hunger for the things of God. I know he is with Jesus, without a doubt, and I know that he has achieved what his heart desired.

Jim and I were talking recently about how utterly lost he was, and how clueless he was about his condition. I remember him lighting up over the revelation of the reality, Jesus loved Jim personally, completely, and just as he was. He would go on literally for hours about how that love has manifest over the years. Whether it was a tangible manifestation of the presence of God in worship, the grace and mercy that brought him healing, or just the supernatural insight into a passage of Scripture, Jim knew God loved him. He was so grateful that God had speared his life until he came to know Christ. He said, "I know one thing, I am going to stay ready to meet Him," and he did.

As we go through our busy days, stay ready.

WHEW!

Been a little busy, did you notice?

We continue to make strides toward our relocation to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. As of our last trip to the OBX we visited the Nags Head Church (http://nagsheadchurch.com) where we had the chance to celebrate the presence of God, were encouraged in the Word, and found ourselves feeling quite at home. To me, finding a church home is more important than finding a house, and I think we have found a place we would like to plumb the depths of.

We did find a house! It is a beautiful English cottage nestled in amongst the dunes of Duck. It is a short walk to the Currituck Sound and just 1,000 yards from the Atlantic beach. While we are excited about the house, it will take God acting to get us into it. Please pray.

We have turned over our church to the new pastors, Rick and Sandy. We will work side-by-side with them until our departure, and we are excited about what their leadership will bring to the future of this congregation. Check them out at (http://www.faithprevails.org) If you are close by, drop in!

We continue to reach out to local pastors, missionaries, and friends in ministry. If you know someone who needs a friend, could use a little encouragement, or you'd just like to see blessed, drop us a line and we'll touch base with them.