Dear Friends,
Have you ever thought about how Europeans communicate with each other? In English! So why not offer English lessons in Austria in a camp setting? For several yeas now, in cooperation with a few Christian organizations from American and Austria this is being done. I was able to be the Bible teacher at one of the English Camps this summer, along with my brother Brent. Can you believe it! Most of the kids that come are unbelievers. We spend the day with them in an "English-speaking" world with American games, food, activities, and language lessons; each evenings we do a chapel service with them. By the second evening I was able to invite kids to make a decision to follow Christ. Fifteen campers prayed to trust Christ as their Savior. By the last night, another five took that decision. At the end of camp we informed them about the location of local youth groups they can join. :lease pray for each of these kids.
Lost Friends
While in Austria, I had the chance to visit a couple of my friends. First there is Mario. Just days before travelling to E-camp, I was informed that his 24 year-old son, Christian, had killed himself by jumping in front of a train. HE had painted on a rock in his room, "The world is black." Mario asked me, "Where does it say in the Bible that Jesus is the light?" I was able to share the entire Gospel with him again, and with tears in his eyes he clutched onto my hands and we prayed. I am not sure that Mario has personally accepted Christ at this point. When I ask him he doesn't say anything. I think he is under great pressure in the village because his son Christian had told people that I am a cult leader and warned his dad about meeting with me. Another great opportunity opened up when my old soccer coach from 25 years ago contacted me and was wondering where I live and what I do. I gave him the full story, and told him that by "chance" I will be in his neighborhood near Munich in the next few weeks. We made out a time to meet, and I was able to share the Gospel with him clearly. Please pray for Mario and my old soccer coach, Peter.
Skater Event in Spittal
As you may know, it is difficult in Austria to organize events as an evangelical community because we are not a part of the official state church. We are so excited about the fact that God allowed Mathias and Marco, graduated of our discipleship school, to arrange a huge skater event in their home of Spittal. The were able to invite a professional skater, Josh Harmoney, (find him on youtube) from California to be with hundreds of skater kids over the weekend from Sept. 11-13th. Even the local mayor got excited about this youth event and made it an offical part of city events. They received lots of recognition and sponsorships, and were able to share the gospel with hundreds of kids. The mayor spoke to the skaters about the dangers of doing drugs, and two of the youth from church gave their testimonies about how they were able to become drug-free through the help of their relationship to Jesus Christ. Please pray for the kids who heard the Gospel, for those who made decisions to follow Christ, and for the church in Spittal to continue to be a light in their city.
The Biggest Evangelical Church in Austria
The first church we worked with in Graz has grown from 130 to around 280 people. The have been able to buy up three properties bordering their own in the middle of Graz. Now their plans are to build an auditorium that seats 450 people and is expandable to 600. This Fall, I will be bringing a group from the USA to help them with some of the construction. Can you help contribute for our travel expenses? The work has already begun, the nationals are excited, but they need reinforcements.
Born to Burn--Youth Convention
Please remember to pray for the annual nationwide youth convention coming up in May of 2010. I have been asked to be the main speaker for this. There will be young people from all over Austria challenged with the topic: Born to Burn! The committee is already working on all the preliminary planning, but they need our prayers.
Jen and I want to thank you personally for your prayers and your support. On September 11th, Jen turned 40! My college soccer coach on facebook wrote that "it is another token of God's grace that he has given a beautiful wife to such an an ordinary looking guy!" (Nice choice of words coach.)
With love and prayers, Bobby, Jen, and kids Parschauer
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Letter from Mexico
South O' Border
DR. & MRS LONNIE C. SMITH Sr.
Missionaries to Mexico
Hebrews 6:10
See our Web page: http://bbfi-northamerica.org/Smith_Lo_Sr/ __________________________________________________________________
October 2009
Dear Friends in Christ:
The pasted few weeks have been very good and enjoyable. It was our privilege to have Harold and Connie DeVilbiss visit McAllen for medical treatment. These days together reminded us of our first meeting of these dear people. Harold came to Mexico as a teenager in 1946. He had studied with Wendell Zimmerman in KCBT in KC, Mo. God called him to Mexico and the Baptist Temple sent him to Mexico. Later he was accepted by the BBFI. He lived and worked in Tampico and oversaw many Mexican pastors who were supported by KCBT. In 1956 God called us to Tampico to work where Harold had established a good work. He and family moved to Mexico City where they have continued to serve since that time. He was a great help to us when we first came to Mexico. His surgery was a success and they have return to their work in Mexico DC.
The BBFI of Mexico has grown from THIRTEEN small missions to a host of churches and missions. It has grown from a supported program with funds coming from the USA to a strong body of self-supporting churches and has a strong “foreign” missionary program with over TWENTY missionary projects. The BBFM meet twice a year, in April and November.In Northern Mexico there are two BBFM Fellowship. One is in Monterrey and Saltillo area called the BBF del Norte. This body of 40 to 50 pastors and churches meet the last Friday of each month in a different church in the area. Another Fellowship is along the TEX-MEX border and is called the BBFM Fronteriza. This group of 30 to 40 pastors is all along the Mexican Border from Matamoros to Piedras Negras across from Eagle Pass, TX. This group meets ever other month from Monday night to Wednesday Noon. This is because of the distance to travel for the meetings. It has been my privilege to win many of these men to our Lord.
Beloved, once again we are so thankful for your faithfulness in prayer and support for our ministry. We do appreciate it very much.
Yours for souls in Mexico,
Lonnie & Margie Smith
DR. & MRS LONNIE C. SMITH Sr.
Missionaries to Mexico
Hebrews 6:10
See our Web page: http://bbfi-northamerica.org/Smith_Lo_Sr/ __________________________________________________________________
October 2009
Dear Friends in Christ:
The pasted few weeks have been very good and enjoyable. It was our privilege to have Harold and Connie DeVilbiss visit McAllen for medical treatment. These days together reminded us of our first meeting of these dear people. Harold came to Mexico as a teenager in 1946. He had studied with Wendell Zimmerman in KCBT in KC, Mo. God called him to Mexico and the Baptist Temple sent him to Mexico. Later he was accepted by the BBFI. He lived and worked in Tampico and oversaw many Mexican pastors who were supported by KCBT. In 1956 God called us to Tampico to work where Harold had established a good work. He and family moved to Mexico City where they have continued to serve since that time. He was a great help to us when we first came to Mexico. His surgery was a success and they have return to their work in Mexico DC.
The BBFI of Mexico has grown from THIRTEEN small missions to a host of churches and missions. It has grown from a supported program with funds coming from the USA to a strong body of self-supporting churches and has a strong “foreign” missionary program with over TWENTY missionary projects. The BBFM meet twice a year, in April and November.In Northern Mexico there are two BBFM Fellowship. One is in Monterrey and Saltillo area called the BBF del Norte. This body of 40 to 50 pastors and churches meet the last Friday of each month in a different church in the area. Another Fellowship is along the TEX-MEX border and is called the BBFM Fronteriza. This group of 30 to 40 pastors is all along the Mexican Border from Matamoros to Piedras Negras across from Eagle Pass, TX. This group meets ever other month from Monday night to Wednesday Noon. This is because of the distance to travel for the meetings. It has been my privilege to win many of these men to our Lord.
Beloved, once again we are so thankful for your faithfulness in prayer and support for our ministry. We do appreciate it very much.
Yours for souls in Mexico,
Lonnie & Margie Smith
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Letter from India
This is a letter from missionaries to India that came and spoke at one of our Wednesday evening services a few weeks ago.
P.D. and Shanta Emmanuel have been with IGM since 1993. Rev. Emmanuel is the director of Sathyaveda (True Word) Ministries. It began in 1974 as a Baptist mission. The ministry involves church planting and aid programs among the unreached tribes in India. The Emmanuel's are kept busy with the oversight of the various ministries and the training of needed staff. P.D. constantly seeks new avenues for spreading the Gospel and meeting the needs of the Indian people.
Sathyaveda Ministry programs include:
P.D. and Shanta Emmanuel have been with IGM since 1993. Rev. Emmanuel is the director of Sathyaveda (True Word) Ministries. It began in 1974 as a Baptist mission. The ministry involves church planting and aid programs among the unreached tribes in India. The Emmanuel's are kept busy with the oversight of the various ministries and the training of needed staff. P.D. constantly seeks new avenues for spreading the Gospel and meeting the needs of the Indian people.
Sathyaveda Ministry programs include:
- Evangelizing unreached tribes
- Church planting
- Orphanages
- Christian day schools
- Vocational schools
- Supervised lodging for youth
- Short-term Bible courses
- Bible Distribution
- Health care
- Food programs
- Tailoring centers
- Disaster relief
Dear Prayer Partners and Supporters,
Greetings to you int he precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. By the grace of God our family is doing fine. These days I am in USA visiting our supporting churches. Thank you very much for your prayers and support of my family, the ministry in India.
There are good rains in India, particularly in Bangalore city. Several places there are big floods also. Good rains will solve the problem of the draught situation in the country. Praise God for his benevolence.
There is an increase of Swine flu cases in the world and in India too and it is getting worse day by day. When it initially struck India it was concentrated in North India, but now it has made its way to the South also. So far 16 people have died in my city -- Bangalore, and many people are being diagnosed positive for the flu. Please pray that this pandemic would be curbed and that lives would be touched by the Lord and be saved by Him.
The Ministry Update
All the pastors and the church are doing fine. The school and the orphanages are going on well. Sometimes they face discouragements and challenges in the ministry. Please uphold them in your prayers that God would strengthen them that they may be able to face boldly whatever the situation may be.
Thank you very much for opening your churches and the homes for me during my visit to the USA. I have enjoyed your love and hospitality. Thank you very much for you financial support and special offerings for the ministry in India.
The construction of the churches in three different places, Achampet, Cuddapa, and Eluru, in Andhra Pradesh is going on well. All three places are being over seen and the work is progressing slowly but steadily. We are hoping to finish the construction by the end of this year or early next year. Please pray for this need that the Lord would accomplish His purposes in these places.
Thank you very much for your prayers for our son, Sushanth. He is recovering well and is feeling much better. Please continue to pray for his studies.
Once again thank you very much for your continuous prayers and support. I will be traveling back to India on October 7, 2009. I will be sending the latest updates when I get back there.
With lots of love and regards,
Shantha and Emmanuel
Letter from Europe
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Just a few days ago I read a verse in my quiet time that expresses the desire of my heart. Psalm 79:13 "So we your people and the sheep of your pasture will give thanks for ever: we will show forth your praise to all generations."
This is a special letter to all of you in order that we can praise the Lord together for all that has happened in Germany, Europe and Africa over the past 45 years. In December 1964, the Word of Life quartet along with their families moved to Germany to begin what would be a movement that would move Germany to Kenya East Africa and all across Europe in the next 45 years.
During the first 4 years in Germany we rented camp grounds in Germany, Holland, Norway and Austria, all the time looking for a property that would be an attraction to the young people of Germany. In 1969, we finally found the two castles on Lake Starnberg, just south of Munich and very close to the Bavarian Alps. What a beautiful place the Lord gave us.
In the spring of 1969, we were able to lease the yellow castle from the German government and just celebrated our 40th anniversary at this castle in July of this year. In 1971, we leased the second castle, the Seeburg, just 500 yards from the yellow castle.
I just received a letter from our German director, Andy Wenzel, telling us that over the last 40 years, 150,000 guests have been at one of our camps and conferences, just in Germany. Thousands have received Christ into their hearts, and there is no way of counting the young people who have personally counseled over the years. Almost every Evangelical mission organization in Germany now has people working for them, who dedicated their lives to serve Christ, right there at these castles in Germany. All the praise belongs to God for all that he has done.
Maybe you are asking, "Why are you going back over all these years?" The reason being that we were told some time ago that these castles will be sold and the price is approximately $20 million. There is no way that we could possibly pay this price and the only way that we can continue using these facilities is that God would again move the heart of the King (government).
Just yesterday, September 8th, the finance minister of Bavaria came to our town together with numerous reporters, local politicians as well as influential Christian leaders. Andy Wenzel handed him 12,000 letters from people all over German asking the finance minister to reconsider his decision regarding the castles. It looks like God is beginning to change the minds of those in charge of these properties. Could I ask that all of you who receive this letter be in prayer that we will be able to continue using these castles? Please make known in all of your churches as well as your prayer groups that God would again intervene and that His will be done regarding the future use of these wonderful properties.
Alex Konya just sent a letter telling all that God has done in Hungary and Serbia this past summer. They had 1100 campers with 178 who publically professed to trust Christ and 111 teens who dedicated their lives to Christ. Praise the Lord! 40% of these campers were from broken homes, which makes the follow up process very difficult, but not impossible.
Sergi Tyshchenko sent a note from Bulgaria telling about their last camp with 22 young people attending. 11 accepted Christ into their hearts. Praise the Lord!
Mihai and Ana Laura Bucur reported that they had 135 people at their first ever camp in Lithuania with 35 decisions for salvation and 50 dedicating their lives to serve the Lord. Praise the Lord!
Juan Silas from Romania called me from Turkey where they were holding camps this summer and gave a report, telling of the Muslim young people, that they have received Christ and need our prayers. They will experience persecution as this is made known to their parents. Juan also said that the camps in Romania were going very well, with many decisions to Christ. 7000 attended the Born Again to a Living Hope concerts with 700 receiving Christ. Out of 570 participants in their soccer and volleyball tournaments this year, 14 made a decision for Christ. Praise the Lord!
Jorge Radziwiluk held camps not only in Ukraine this summer but also in Kazakhstan, Russia and Latvia with hundreds of youth receiving Christ into their lives.
I received a note from Chris Mwalwa in Kenya, telling of the camps this past year and also in August in Kabete and Mombasa as well as Mwea in Eastern Kenya and the slums of Nairobi. 4400 campers attended and there were 300 new decisions for Christ. Please pray for the follow up that is going on right now. Praise the Lord!
We will give thanks forever and praise God for the privilege of seeing all these people coming to Christ during this past summer! As you may have noticed, I have especially highlighted the countries that are doing camps in new countries for Word of Life Europe. Please be in prayer as leaders are being trained to officially establish the ministered in these countries. I will give you a full report from all of our European countries in our next European Update.
In the midst of all these blessings we have experienced attacks from Satan in each of these countries and also some very difficult family trials and pressures. We would appreciate your prayers for us as a family as well as all our staff in Europe and Africa.
Thank you so much for your prayers and support for this great work!
Our Love and Prayers,
Bob & Betts Parschauer
Just a few days ago I read a verse in my quiet time that expresses the desire of my heart. Psalm 79:13 "So we your people and the sheep of your pasture will give thanks for ever: we will show forth your praise to all generations."
This is a special letter to all of you in order that we can praise the Lord together for all that has happened in Germany, Europe and Africa over the past 45 years. In December 1964, the Word of Life quartet along with their families moved to Germany to begin what would be a movement that would move Germany to Kenya East Africa and all across Europe in the next 45 years.
During the first 4 years in Germany we rented camp grounds in Germany, Holland, Norway and Austria, all the time looking for a property that would be an attraction to the young people of Germany. In 1969, we finally found the two castles on Lake Starnberg, just south of Munich and very close to the Bavarian Alps. What a beautiful place the Lord gave us.
In the spring of 1969, we were able to lease the yellow castle from the German government and just celebrated our 40th anniversary at this castle in July of this year. In 1971, we leased the second castle, the Seeburg, just 500 yards from the yellow castle.
I just received a letter from our German director, Andy Wenzel, telling us that over the last 40 years, 150,000 guests have been at one of our camps and conferences, just in Germany. Thousands have received Christ into their hearts, and there is no way of counting the young people who have personally counseled over the years. Almost every Evangelical mission organization in Germany now has people working for them, who dedicated their lives to serve Christ, right there at these castles in Germany. All the praise belongs to God for all that he has done.
Maybe you are asking, "Why are you going back over all these years?" The reason being that we were told some time ago that these castles will be sold and the price is approximately $20 million. There is no way that we could possibly pay this price and the only way that we can continue using these facilities is that God would again move the heart of the King (government).
Just yesterday, September 8th, the finance minister of Bavaria came to our town together with numerous reporters, local politicians as well as influential Christian leaders. Andy Wenzel handed him 12,000 letters from people all over German asking the finance minister to reconsider his decision regarding the castles. It looks like God is beginning to change the minds of those in charge of these properties. Could I ask that all of you who receive this letter be in prayer that we will be able to continue using these castles? Please make known in all of your churches as well as your prayer groups that God would again intervene and that His will be done regarding the future use of these wonderful properties.
Alex Konya just sent a letter telling all that God has done in Hungary and Serbia this past summer. They had 1100 campers with 178 who publically professed to trust Christ and 111 teens who dedicated their lives to Christ. Praise the Lord! 40% of these campers were from broken homes, which makes the follow up process very difficult, but not impossible.
Sergi Tyshchenko sent a note from Bulgaria telling about their last camp with 22 young people attending. 11 accepted Christ into their hearts. Praise the Lord!
Mihai and Ana Laura Bucur reported that they had 135 people at their first ever camp in Lithuania with 35 decisions for salvation and 50 dedicating their lives to serve the Lord. Praise the Lord!
Juan Silas from Romania called me from Turkey where they were holding camps this summer and gave a report, telling of the Muslim young people, that they have received Christ and need our prayers. They will experience persecution as this is made known to their parents. Juan also said that the camps in Romania were going very well, with many decisions to Christ. 7000 attended the Born Again to a Living Hope concerts with 700 receiving Christ. Out of 570 participants in their soccer and volleyball tournaments this year, 14 made a decision for Christ. Praise the Lord!
Jorge Radziwiluk held camps not only in Ukraine this summer but also in Kazakhstan, Russia and Latvia with hundreds of youth receiving Christ into their lives.
I received a note from Chris Mwalwa in Kenya, telling of the camps this past year and also in August in Kabete and Mombasa as well as Mwea in Eastern Kenya and the slums of Nairobi. 4400 campers attended and there were 300 new decisions for Christ. Please pray for the follow up that is going on right now. Praise the Lord!
We will give thanks forever and praise God for the privilege of seeing all these people coming to Christ during this past summer! As you may have noticed, I have especially highlighted the countries that are doing camps in new countries for Word of Life Europe. Please be in prayer as leaders are being trained to officially establish the ministered in these countries. I will give you a full report from all of our European countries in our next European Update.
In the midst of all these blessings we have experienced attacks from Satan in each of these countries and also some very difficult family trials and pressures. We would appreciate your prayers for us as a family as well as all our staff in Europe and Africa.
Thank you so much for your prayers and support for this great work!
Our Love and Prayers,
Bob & Betts Parschauer
Monday, September 28, 2009
Urgent Prayer Requests from Turkey
Gateway Newsletter September, 26th 2009
There are many urgent prayer needs in this letter and I thank you for your diligence in lifting us up before the Throne of the Living God.
“And he went and took the scroll from the right hand of him who was seated on the throne.
And when he had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each holding a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.” (Revelation 5:7-8)
16 Day Three Purpose Gateway Trip
1. Reconciliation Trip to Armenia: Last year J. of G.E.S. spoke words of reconciliation to pastors and churches on behalf of many Turkish Christians. This October 1st E. and J. will head together to Armenia to meet with many Armenian pastors to seek reconciliation for past offenses (from 1800’s-early 1900’s). This trip will be long and arduous as they will be driving from Sodom through Georgia to Armenia. Please pray for the Spirit’s leading them along the way (maybe they will be led to stop at many Kurdish villages for divine appointments). Pray for their safety in traveling. Pray for their sustained health. Pray also that fruit and relationships will be born from this trip. They are still in need of finances for this trip.
2. Zacchaeus Project to the East: As J. and E. return from Armenia to Sodom they will be stopping by and visiting many secret believers along with going to villages such as where the two girls with the skin disease out in Twin Mountain Province live (see facebook). They will be taking the King’s letters with them as they go. Pray that the Spirit would use J. and E. to encourage and speak the word boldly. Pray that many would be receptive to the preached and lived word. Again they also have a financial burden for purchasing gas ($8 per gallon), food and lodging along the way.
3. Kurdish Alliance Meetings in Armenia: While in Armenia J. and E. will be meeting with Kurdish pastors and their churches to firm up relationships and strategize on how to work together in Kurdish work for the Kingdom. As of now there are around 500 Kurdish believers in Armenia, yet they are not helping in the work in Turkey. Pray that the Spirit would guide their conversations and that they would have great wisdom in how to work together with these churches.
Over all pray for safety, the Spirit’s leading and ease of passage at checkpoints and border crossings.
Survey trip to Zaza areas: Today Saturday, September 26th E., D. and K. headed on the road to visit several Zaza provinces. Pray for the safety and their leading. They will be in villages and visiting with many folks who for the first time will be meeting with followers of the King!
Follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/gatewayeducationalservices?ref=profile
Follow us on Twitter: “E.” and “J.” will be giving daily updates via twitter.
After you create a twitter account http://twitter.com/ Follow us, our name is: gatewayedu
Thank you all for your support and prayers!
J. of G.E.S.
If you feel led to support Gateway’s ministries please send your donations to:
Donations can be made online through New Horizons Foundation: http://newhorizonsfoundation.net/index.php?option=com_dtdonate&Itemid=5
More detailed information about EFT transfers:
EFT Bank transfer Credit/Debit Card Donations. The 15th of every month donations to Gateway can be electronically withdrawn. One can decide in giving if their electronic gift will be a one time gift or monthly. The transaction date for monthly gifts is on the 15th of every month. What is needed is the credit/debit card information (Name, Expiration date, Card Number). If the transfer will be made from a Bank account; a routing number and account number will be needed. Remember the project of the donation is Gateway Missions.
Checks can be made out to:
New Horizons Foundation Inc. (FBO Gateway Missions)
Send to:
New Horizons Foundation, Inc.4570 Hilton Parkway, Suite 203Colorado Springs, CO 80907
To check out the latest pictures and info please go to our Face book page.
Face book: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/profile.php?id=1376664116&ref=profile
Website: www.gatewayeducation.org
Twitter: @gatewayedu
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Merhaba From Turkey!
This is the first newsletter from a young man in our church that went to help our missionaries to Turkey (J & L) for a few months. He plans to eventually become a full-time missionary.
God is good and He has definitely opened the doors for me to be here right now. He has removed all barriers and put very generous people in my life. Thanks again everyone who gave. I would not be here without you.
I left my house at 3:30 am with my dad and Josiah. We arrived at the airport and I said goodbye. The plane left at 6 am and we flew to JFK by 7am where I waited 9.5 hours before I could board the next plane. I sat in coach in the very middle aisle between two Turks. They were very nice, but it was very cramped and I found it impossible to sleep. 12 hours later we arrived in Istanbul, Turkey.
I got my visa and my passport stamped, got my luggage and went to meet with J at Starbucks. Yeah, those are all over the place in Turkey. Along with Burger King and Pizza Hut and McDonald's. We hopped on a bus and went to his apartment where L was waiting. J took me on a three hour tour of the city where I saw huge mosques, palaces, fortresses, the Bosphorous Straight, brides, buses, ferries, trolleybuses, and so much more. I had my first meal in Turkey (a kebop) and a pepper that would make most grown men cry. It hurt. The next day I got to meet the other believers at Beytel. I was able to play guitar with another believer for the worship service. One of the things I will be doing while I am here is training him to play guitar more comfortably for the worship service. Most of the songs we played were recognizable as they had been translated from English. I did lose my place once because I was thinking it in English, hearing it in Turkish, and reading it in Dutch. Not an easy thing to do when you don't know the latter languages...
Together we broke bread and had a great time of fellowship. I was able to play with some English speaking children there who moved to Turkey from N. Carolina. I am staying with J and L for a few days or weeks and then I will be staying in their office building.
Pray for the hearts of the Muslims that we will meet that they will be able to discern the truth from the lies and also for the believers who live here. Pray they will stay strong in the faith and have courage to live their lives for Christ. Pray for our continued safety and for opportunities to be shown to us. Thanks for the prayers everyone! Stay strong in the Lord and courageous! Stay in the Word and pray without ceasing!
Love you guys! See you soon!
--Zurafa
God is good and He has definitely opened the doors for me to be here right now. He has removed all barriers and put very generous people in my life. Thanks again everyone who gave. I would not be here without you.
I left my house at 3:30 am with my dad and Josiah. We arrived at the airport and I said goodbye. The plane left at 6 am and we flew to JFK by 7am where I waited 9.5 hours before I could board the next plane. I sat in coach in the very middle aisle between two Turks. They were very nice, but it was very cramped and I found it impossible to sleep. 12 hours later we arrived in Istanbul, Turkey.
I got my visa and my passport stamped, got my luggage and went to meet with J at Starbucks. Yeah, those are all over the place in Turkey. Along with Burger King and Pizza Hut and McDonald's. We hopped on a bus and went to his apartment where L was waiting. J took me on a three hour tour of the city where I saw huge mosques, palaces, fortresses, the Bosphorous Straight, brides, buses, ferries, trolleybuses, and so much more. I had my first meal in Turkey (a kebop) and a pepper that would make most grown men cry. It hurt. The next day I got to meet the other believers at Beytel. I was able to play guitar with another believer for the worship service. One of the things I will be doing while I am here is training him to play guitar more comfortably for the worship service. Most of the songs we played were recognizable as they had been translated from English. I did lose my place once because I was thinking it in English, hearing it in Turkish, and reading it in Dutch. Not an easy thing to do when you don't know the latter languages...
Together we broke bread and had a great time of fellowship. I was able to play with some English speaking children there who moved to Turkey from N. Carolina. I am staying with J and L for a few days or weeks and then I will be staying in their office building.
Pray for the hearts of the Muslims that we will meet that they will be able to discern the truth from the lies and also for the believers who live here. Pray they will stay strong in the faith and have courage to live their lives for Christ. Pray for our continued safety and for opportunities to be shown to us. Thanks for the prayers everyone! Stay strong in the Lord and courageous! Stay in the Word and pray without ceasing!
Love you guys! See you soon!
--Zurafa
Monday, September 14, 2009
News from Africa
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Greetings in the wonderful name of the Lord. Hoping this letter finds all well with you and yours. Becky and I have just returned from Africa and what a trip. Becky stepped in a hole one night and sprained her ankle. At least that is what we thought. Two weeks later when we got back, her foot was still hurting her so she went for xrays and found out it was broken in two placed. She is one tough mama. She sends out her love and greetings.
The trip started in July when we arrived in Nigeria to be part of a Soul-Winning Conference. Missionary Mark Holmes asked both Dennis Anderson and me to be part of it and man was it wonderful; teaching and training Pastors, then soul winning and preaching at night. We had a wonderful time and I thin the total of salvations for the week was well over 500 decisions. People everywhere, lost without a Savior. Another blessing was to be able to train national pastors in the Word and see them so excited about the Lord's work. We are hoping that a partnership can come out of our time in Nigeria.
Then it was off to Botswana to visit the work there. We were able to lead a few people to the Lord, but we encountered some serious problems with the Pastor there and found out that he was in open sin and refused to repent. After day of trying to show him where he was wrong, we had to break fellowship with him. Going from a high in Nigeria to a low in Botswana was difficult but God must be honored and obeyed. We are still hoping and praying for that pastor to repent and come back to the Lord. Our fellowship with Missionary Bob and Esther Geinheimer was treat as they are wonderful examples of servants of the Lord.
Arriving in Malawi was such a blessing. As we got off the plane in Blantyre, I began to witness to a man named John and a few short minutes John was bowing his heart to the Lord Jesus Christ. Dennis and I traveled about 168 km from the Capital to teach and preach at a small rural school and orphanage. The local pastor there had arranged for us to be there several days. Over 70 pastors came in for training and we had over 300 people in attendance. We had 81 receive the Lord as their Savior!!!!! What a time!!! It was like being in Zambia years ago as the people walked for miles and miles to come. Three of them walked all the way from the country of Mozambique. The roads were rough, the area remote, the skeeters buzzing, but what time we had with the Lord moving on the hearts of the people.
Then it was off to Zambia. We were supposed to go to Tanzania but had no transportation. Instead we sent two of our men from the Mission who spent several days on the road with breakdowns etc. but finally reached the Tanzania. Many were saved and many baptized. There was also a conference going on in the Congo where Henry Lunda was teaching and preaching. Many, many souls were saved as well.
We had Becky and a few women from Alabama come to teach in the VBS and over 1600 kids come to the Mission. We had visitors and two missionaries from USA. The attendance was down a bit at the Conference with only 2700 adults attending. The total attendance was over 4000 but we had a wonderful time. Over 400 children were saved with 51 adults and 11 deaf. We had over 80 baptized and encouraged the Saints to keep on keeping on for the Lord.
Thanks go out to all who helped feed the nationals. What a blessing. Thanks for all the prayers and support. I might be having a knee replacement by the time you get this letter if the heart doctor lets me. Just know we love and pray for each of you. God bless you and may this be the year the trumpet blows.
In Jesus Name,
Bobby and Becky Bonner
IAM Ministries
Greetings in the wonderful name of the Lord. Hoping this letter finds all well with you and yours. Becky and I have just returned from Africa and what a trip. Becky stepped in a hole one night and sprained her ankle. At least that is what we thought. Two weeks later when we got back, her foot was still hurting her so she went for xrays and found out it was broken in two placed. She is one tough mama. She sends out her love and greetings.
The trip started in July when we arrived in Nigeria to be part of a Soul-Winning Conference. Missionary Mark Holmes asked both Dennis Anderson and me to be part of it and man was it wonderful; teaching and training Pastors, then soul winning and preaching at night. We had a wonderful time and I thin the total of salvations for the week was well over 500 decisions. People everywhere, lost without a Savior. Another blessing was to be able to train national pastors in the Word and see them so excited about the Lord's work. We are hoping that a partnership can come out of our time in Nigeria.
Then it was off to Botswana to visit the work there. We were able to lead a few people to the Lord, but we encountered some serious problems with the Pastor there and found out that he was in open sin and refused to repent. After day of trying to show him where he was wrong, we had to break fellowship with him. Going from a high in Nigeria to a low in Botswana was difficult but God must be honored and obeyed. We are still hoping and praying for that pastor to repent and come back to the Lord. Our fellowship with Missionary Bob and Esther Geinheimer was treat as they are wonderful examples of servants of the Lord.
Arriving in Malawi was such a blessing. As we got off the plane in Blantyre, I began to witness to a man named John and a few short minutes John was bowing his heart to the Lord Jesus Christ. Dennis and I traveled about 168 km from the Capital to teach and preach at a small rural school and orphanage. The local pastor there had arranged for us to be there several days. Over 70 pastors came in for training and we had over 300 people in attendance. We had 81 receive the Lord as their Savior!!!!! What a time!!! It was like being in Zambia years ago as the people walked for miles and miles to come. Three of them walked all the way from the country of Mozambique. The roads were rough, the area remote, the skeeters buzzing, but what time we had with the Lord moving on the hearts of the people.
Then it was off to Zambia. We were supposed to go to Tanzania but had no transportation. Instead we sent two of our men from the Mission who spent several days on the road with breakdowns etc. but finally reached the Tanzania. Many were saved and many baptized. There was also a conference going on in the Congo where Henry Lunda was teaching and preaching. Many, many souls were saved as well.
We had Becky and a few women from Alabama come to teach in the VBS and over 1600 kids come to the Mission. We had visitors and two missionaries from USA. The attendance was down a bit at the Conference with only 2700 adults attending. The total attendance was over 4000 but we had a wonderful time. Over 400 children were saved with 51 adults and 11 deaf. We had over 80 baptized and encouraged the Saints to keep on keeping on for the Lord.
Thanks go out to all who helped feed the nationals. What a blessing. Thanks for all the prayers and support. I might be having a knee replacement by the time you get this letter if the heart doctor lets me. Just know we love and pray for each of you. God bless you and may this be the year the trumpet blows.
In Jesus Name,
Bobby and Becky Bonner
IAM Ministries
The Smith's in Mexico
Dear Pastor and Friends:
We spent an action packed summer in Guadalajara. I'll share some of the highlights with you:
1. Living Word Baptist sent $3,500 to our home missionary in Ozxaca to help them purchase land.
2. Two of our young preacher boys made an evangelistic trip to the city of Aguascalientes. While there, they led 9 people to the Lord and also make an appearance on a local TV show.
3. Living Word Baptist experienced a "back door" revival. One of the main families in the church got miffed and left, but only 2 other people followed them. Once they were gone, blessings began to flow and 6 new families were reached and added to the church!
4. Death takes no holidays and in the 3 months we were in Guadalajara, we buried 1 regular church member, 1 irregular church member, and one church family lost 7 other relatives. In almost 9 situations, we afforded the opportunity to share the Gospel with families and friends.
5. Our children and young people went to camp and participated in other activities which produced many decisions for salvation.
We are now back in Texas getting ready to hit the road again. We have a very busy schedule through the month of November.
Once again, we want to express our gratitude to you for your continued support and prayers.
'Til Jesus Comes,
Lonnie C. Smith, Jr.
We spent an action packed summer in Guadalajara. I'll share some of the highlights with you:
1. Living Word Baptist sent $3,500 to our home missionary in Ozxaca to help them purchase land.
2. Two of our young preacher boys made an evangelistic trip to the city of Aguascalientes. While there, they led 9 people to the Lord and also make an appearance on a local TV show.
3. Living Word Baptist experienced a "back door" revival. One of the main families in the church got miffed and left, but only 2 other people followed them. Once they were gone, blessings began to flow and 6 new families were reached and added to the church!
4. Death takes no holidays and in the 3 months we were in Guadalajara, we buried 1 regular church member, 1 irregular church member, and one church family lost 7 other relatives. In almost 9 situations, we afforded the opportunity to share the Gospel with families and friends.
5. Our children and young people went to camp and participated in other activities which produced many decisions for salvation.
We are now back in Texas getting ready to hit the road again. We have a very busy schedule through the month of November.
Once again, we want to express our gratitude to you for your continued support and prayers.
'Til Jesus Comes,
Lonnie C. Smith, Jr.
News from Turkey
Gateway Newsletter: 13 September 2009
As of September 11th, Gateway Educational Services celebrated 7 years of ministry in the Middle East. Thank you all for your prayers and support.
1. Zacchaeus Project: Kenan’s Eyes. September 10th, Kenan , “E.” and I spent the morning at the “World Eye Hospital”. After around 6 months of treatments and also with the wearing of eye-glasses Kenan will be able to see almost 100%. Today at Beytel West Kenan expressed his gratitude for being able to be treated and asked for prayer regarding his treatments. He will have 3 treatments per week and a doctor’s visit once a month. Thank you to those who have donated for this. To see pictures of Kenan beginning the treatments please go to: http://www.facebook.com/gatewayeducationalservices?ref=profile
2. NUT School: Zurafa will be traveling from Rochester, NY. this week to Turkey, this being his first overseas trip. Please pray that the Lord would continue to provide financially for his needs while he is here. Pray for safety in his travel. Zurafa will be studying Research-Evangelism, Islam, Qur’an, Hadith, Culture and Turkish language among other subjects. He also will be involved in ministry as he progresses in these subjects. Pray that he will adapt quickly to the changes in culture and make it through the culture shock phases as he will be immersed in the culture and far away from anything he is familiar with.
3. Beytel East: There is now a large number of Kurds in Sodom (Location of Beytel East) whom we are in contact with and that are interested in spiritual things. As we are working on a church plant there please pray that the Lord would bring His lost sheep into the fold and use E. and Kenan for His Kingdom. Pray for their protection and encouragement as we did not nickname this city Sodom as a joke.
4. Prayer Request: Dr. Mujdeci has been working with Gateway for over 3 years as of now. There have been many doors opened because of his ministry, however we have been scrutinizing the work over the last 6 months as it has been growing in “T.” province. Over the last 6 months several concerns regarding honesty of the nature of his ministry and theological beliefs have been brought to the attention of Beytel’s leaders. I regret to inform you that we have suspended work with Dr. Mujdeci for an indefinite period of time until we see repentance and a maturing of theological groundings. May there be confession, repentance and restoration that one day we may work together again.
Follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/gatewayeducationalservices?ref=profile
Follow us on Twitter: “E.” and “J.” will be giving daily updates via twitter.
After you create a twitter account http://twitter.com/ Follow us, our name is: gatewayedu
Thank you all for your support and prayers!
J. of G.E.S.
If you feel led to support Gateway’s ministries please send your donations to:
Donations can be made online through New Horizons Foundation: http://newhorizonsfoundation.net/index.php?option=com_dtdonate&Itemid=5
More detailed information about EFT transfers:
EFT Bank transfer Credit/Debit Card Donations. The 15th of every month donations to Gateway can be electronically withdrawn. One can decide in giving if their electronic gift will be a one time gift or monthly. The transaction date for monthly gifts is on the 15th of every month. What is needed is the credit/debit card information (Name, Expiration date, Card Number). If the transfer will be made from a Bank account; a routing number and account number will be needed. Remember the project of the donation is Gateway Missions.
Checks can be made out to:
New Horizons Foundation Inc. (FBO Gateway Missions)
Send to:
New Horizons Foundation, Inc.4570 Hilton Parkway, Suite 203Colorado Springs, CO 80907
-To check out the latest pictures and info please go to our Face book page.-
Face book: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/profile.php?id=1376664116&ref=profile
Website: www.gatewayeducation.org
Twitter: @gatewayedu
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
South O' Border
Dear Friends in Christ,
The summer activities had been many. In August still more youth camps with amazing results. It is wonderful how the youth of Mexico are coming to the Lord. All of the camps this year exceeded those of last year. Souls were saved and young men and women surrendered their lives to the service of our Lord. When our Bible colleges open this month, there will be more students than last year. Praise God!
With the help of several churches and many friends we were able to supply material for 70 DVBS again this year. The reports are slow to come in from some of these. Those that we have received are great. One church had over 65 boys and girls saved. The mission in Matamoros had over 50 who made a profession of faith in the Lord, some of these were young people and adults.
To be sure all of the DVBS did not have this large a number, but many did. On an average of 40 souls per school (some less and most more) we rejoice in over 2800 boys and girls who accepted Christ as their personal Savior and made a public profession of their faith.
With the school opening and vacations over, the attendance of our churches have seen an increase. We praise God for the pastors who are faithfully leading their churches. Souls are being saved and baptized. They are active in the national BBF of Mexico fellowship. Dr. Angel Zapata is the director of our missions and member of the leadership . He is a leader of men.
We are thankful for the mission office staff that is serving the missionaries. The new Insurance program will prove to be a real blessing and just an example of the many activities they are doing. Thanks!
Beloved, once again we are so thankful for your faithfulness in prayer and support of our ministry. We do appreciate it and pray that God would continue to bless you each and every one.
Yours for souls in Mexico,
Lonnie and Margie Smith
The summer activities had been many. In August still more youth camps with amazing results. It is wonderful how the youth of Mexico are coming to the Lord. All of the camps this year exceeded those of last year. Souls were saved and young men and women surrendered their lives to the service of our Lord. When our Bible colleges open this month, there will be more students than last year. Praise God!
With the help of several churches and many friends we were able to supply material for 70 DVBS again this year. The reports are slow to come in from some of these. Those that we have received are great. One church had over 65 boys and girls saved. The mission in Matamoros had over 50 who made a profession of faith in the Lord, some of these were young people and adults.
To be sure all of the DVBS did not have this large a number, but many did. On an average of 40 souls per school (some less and most more) we rejoice in over 2800 boys and girls who accepted Christ as their personal Savior and made a public profession of their faith.
With the school opening and vacations over, the attendance of our churches have seen an increase. We praise God for the pastors who are faithfully leading their churches. Souls are being saved and baptized. They are active in the national BBF of Mexico fellowship. Dr. Angel Zapata is the director of our missions and member of the leadership . He is a leader of men.
We are thankful for the mission office staff that is serving the missionaries. The new Insurance program will prove to be a real blessing and just an example of the many activities they are doing. Thanks!
Beloved, once again we are so thankful for your faithfulness in prayer and support of our ministry. We do appreciate it and pray that God would continue to bless you each and every one.
Yours for souls in Mexico,
Lonnie and Margie Smith
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)