Back in 1993, Samaritan's Purse collected the first shoe box gifts in North America for Operation Christmas Child. The idea of collecting thousands of gift-filled show boxes for young war survivors in Bosnia sounded daunting at the time, but also presented an exciting opportunity to share the Gospel. In that first year, we were amazed to collect 28,000 boxes. Praise God, since then we have received close to 70 million gift-filled shoe boxes, including nearly 8 million in 2008! This past year we delivered gift boxes to children in over 100 countries.
Every box represents a precious child of God in need of a Savior. Shoe boxes are handed out through local churches that offer our Gospel booklets to children in their own language. Through our follow-up discipleship program, well over 2 million boys and girls have committed their lives to Jesus Christ.
Thanks to compassionate people like you, many more hurting children and their families will hear the Good News of the Savior. "You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21b, NKJV). We appreciate your dedication to Operation Christmas Child and ask that you keep this ministry in your prayer throughout the year. May God richly bless you.
Sincerely, Franklin Graham
Samaritan's Purse
Victory sent out 123 boxes. The Rochester area did 10,130 boxes, which exceeded our goal. Next year we have been asked to be a relay center for the Rochester area.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
News from Turkey!
Gateway Update from Turkey: March 10, 2009
Thank you all for your prayers over the last two weeks. Our trip to the West Bank was fruitful and Spirit led. J.’s sister Melissa and brother-in-law Terry have a ministry (Al-Beit) in Bethlehem at the Jerusalem School. E., L., J. and two Dutch girls that attend Beytel West in Istanbul came to help with the ministry of Al-Beit.
To View Pictures from this trip please go to Gateway’s Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1376664116&ref=profile
Outreach Seminar (Ambassadors of the King in Palestine)
From Melissa and Terry’s Newsletter:
“Beginning in 2007, God has sent many workers into the area. Never, in recent history, has this area of the West Bank seen such a focus. Since there are many new workers here the seminar that J. and E. presented Friday was essential. A little over 30 people attended and they were given much needed tools in how to share the good news of Jesus with those around them. Thank you for your prayers concerning this meeting.”
To see pictures at the conference and J. grappling check out Al Beit’s blog spot:
http://al-beit.blogspot.com/
Bible Teaching and sharing of Testimonies:
J. and E. had the opportunity to share their testimonies or teach the Bible on 9 separate occasions. Pray for lasting fruit from these lessons.
E. is made famous by making the King famous on: Sat 7 and Channel Hayat:
After giving his testimony at the Arabic church on Thursday night, E. was approached by a man who wanted to professionally record his testimony that it may be broadcast on Satellite television all over the Arab world. Friday morning we went to the recording studio and now E.’s testimony will be broadcast for all to see! Pray that there will be much fruit born through this endeavor.
Two refugee camps visited:
E. and J. had the opportunity also to visit many in the camps and pray for those who had requests and while there they met with a man named Muhanid. Muhanid is 16 years old and is a new believer. They spent several hours over a period of two days with Muhanid encouraging him in his situation. Because of this meeting Muhanid will be coming this summer to study with E. at NUT and be trained for ministry.
The Dutch Connection:
A. and Lt. from Holland, now attending Beytel West were a blessing to Al-Beit. This is what Melissa and Terry wrote about them: “A. and Lt. worked long hours with our elementary students. They played games, presented skits, and taught Bible lessons. We are thankful that God sent this group to encourage us in our work here.”
Zacchaeus Project Update:
Two projects have successfully been organized for reaching the T. province with Dr. Mujdeci! At the end of February Dr. M. with 4 others went out to T. with the believers there they organized an ongoing English course along with sports camps. They returned safely from their trip with little incident. Pray that these two projects will bear much fruit!
To support Zacchaeus Projects, Beytel and Christian Resources in Turkish:
Attention all supporters: EFT Online Donations Now Available
All 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) Sent to: New Horizons Foundation, Inc.
4570 Hilton Parkway, Suite 203
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Website: www.gatewayeducation.org
Thank you all for your prayers over the last two weeks. Our trip to the West Bank was fruitful and Spirit led. J.’s sister Melissa and brother-in-law Terry have a ministry (Al-Beit) in Bethlehem at the Jerusalem School. E., L., J. and two Dutch girls that attend Beytel West in Istanbul came to help with the ministry of Al-Beit.
To View Pictures from this trip please go to Gateway’s Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1376664116&ref=profile
Outreach Seminar (Ambassadors of the King in Palestine)
From Melissa and Terry’s Newsletter:
“Beginning in 2007, God has sent many workers into the area. Never, in recent history, has this area of the West Bank seen such a focus. Since there are many new workers here the seminar that J. and E. presented Friday was essential. A little over 30 people attended and they were given much needed tools in how to share the good news of Jesus with those around them. Thank you for your prayers concerning this meeting.”
To see pictures at the conference and J. grappling check out Al Beit’s blog spot:
http://al-beit.blogspot.com/
Bible Teaching and sharing of Testimonies:
J. and E. had the opportunity to share their testimonies or teach the Bible on 9 separate occasions. Pray for lasting fruit from these lessons.
E. is made famous by making the King famous on: Sat 7 and Channel Hayat:
After giving his testimony at the Arabic church on Thursday night, E. was approached by a man who wanted to professionally record his testimony that it may be broadcast on Satellite television all over the Arab world. Friday morning we went to the recording studio and now E.’s testimony will be broadcast for all to see! Pray that there will be much fruit born through this endeavor.
Two refugee camps visited:
E. and J. had the opportunity also to visit many in the camps and pray for those who had requests and while there they met with a man named Muhanid. Muhanid is 16 years old and is a new believer. They spent several hours over a period of two days with Muhanid encouraging him in his situation. Because of this meeting Muhanid will be coming this summer to study with E. at NUT and be trained for ministry.
The Dutch Connection:
A. and Lt. from Holland, now attending Beytel West were a blessing to Al-Beit. This is what Melissa and Terry wrote about them: “A. and Lt. worked long hours with our elementary students. They played games, presented skits, and taught Bible lessons. We are thankful that God sent this group to encourage us in our work here.”
Zacchaeus Project Update:
Two projects have successfully been organized for reaching the T. province with Dr. Mujdeci! At the end of February Dr. M. with 4 others went out to T. with the believers there they organized an ongoing English course along with sports camps. They returned safely from their trip with little incident. Pray that these two projects will bear much fruit!
To support Zacchaeus Projects, Beytel and Christian Resources in Turkish:
Attention all supporters: EFT Online Donations Now Available
All 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) Sent to: New Horizons Foundation, Inc.
4570 Hilton Parkway, Suite 203
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Website: www.gatewayeducation.org
Monday, March 2, 2009
South O' Border
South O' Border: DR. & MRS LONNIE C. SMITH Sr.
Missionaries to Mexico
Hebrews 6:10
March 2009
Dear Friends in Christ,
No doubt you have heard about the drug wars that are going on in Mexico. They have been very much in the news especially along the Texas – Mexico border. You can rest at ease to know that your missionaries are safe and sound. To be sure with the international bridges closed for several hours on several occasions is has been a problem, but we have been able to continue our work in the churches in Reynosa and Matamoros.
From day one our mission work has been centered on building self-supporting churches. In order to do this each church must have it’s own Mexican pastor. Each of the 127 churches and missions that God has allowed us to have a part in building has been built on this concept and it has proved to be the best way to do the work.
March is here again. For over 50 years we have used this month as a marker to order the material for our DVBS in the many churches and missions under our supervision. Last year we were able, with your help to furnish material to reach over 10,000 boys and girls with the gospel. God blessed with over 3,000 professions of faith in our Lord.
This year we are once again asking your help in furnishing this material for the pastors and workers in this great ministry. We not only need funds for the material, but also for the shipping. Last year for the first time the cost of shipping was over $800.00. We are looking as a cost this year of $4,000.00 dollars for material and shipping. We do so wish to reach more boys and girls this year. May God lead you in designating funds for this project? The cost per school, including the shipping will be about $65.00. Thank you for your help and we do need your prayers.
Beloved we are so thankful for your faithfulness in prayer and financial help during this time of world economy. We believe that God will supply all our need in Christ Jesus.
Yours for Souls in Mexico,
Lonnie & Margie Smith
(956) 687-3472
E-Mail: msmith6@rgv.rr.com
Anchor Seminary:www.anchor-bible-institute.org
See our Web page: http://bbfi-northamerica.org/Smith_Lo_Sr/
Missionaries to Mexico
Hebrews 6:10
March 2009
Dear Friends in Christ,
No doubt you have heard about the drug wars that are going on in Mexico. They have been very much in the news especially along the Texas – Mexico border. You can rest at ease to know that your missionaries are safe and sound. To be sure with the international bridges closed for several hours on several occasions is has been a problem, but we have been able to continue our work in the churches in Reynosa and Matamoros.
From day one our mission work has been centered on building self-supporting churches. In order to do this each church must have it’s own Mexican pastor. Each of the 127 churches and missions that God has allowed us to have a part in building has been built on this concept and it has proved to be the best way to do the work.
March is here again. For over 50 years we have used this month as a marker to order the material for our DVBS in the many churches and missions under our supervision. Last year we were able, with your help to furnish material to reach over 10,000 boys and girls with the gospel. God blessed with over 3,000 professions of faith in our Lord.
This year we are once again asking your help in furnishing this material for the pastors and workers in this great ministry. We not only need funds for the material, but also for the shipping. Last year for the first time the cost of shipping was over $800.00. We are looking as a cost this year of $4,000.00 dollars for material and shipping. We do so wish to reach more boys and girls this year. May God lead you in designating funds for this project? The cost per school, including the shipping will be about $65.00. Thank you for your help and we do need your prayers.
Beloved we are so thankful for your faithfulness in prayer and financial help during this time of world economy. We believe that God will supply all our need in Christ Jesus.
Yours for Souls in Mexico,
Lonnie & Margie Smith
(956) 687-3472
E-Mail: msmith6@rgv.rr.com
Anchor Seminary:www.anchor-bible-institute.org
See our Web page: http://bbfi-northamerica.org/Smith_Lo_Sr/
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Ministry Memo
Dear Friends,
January was a very fruitful time for our ministry. I presented The Battle for Life, a powerpoint presentation about abortion/life, in several churches. In one, a lady introduced me to her 13 year old son that she had almost aborted. She had called a crisis pregnancy help line, and a Christian woman had talked her into keeping her baby. We rejoiced together for a life that was saved. At another church, the altar was filled with people repenting either for themselves or our nation. In another church, a mom and her daughter and another teenage girl was saved. PTL!
I am also preaching a message entitled America in Crisis that has been a blessing. I believe that America is being chastened by God, and it may get worse before it gets better. The only hope for America is a national heaven sent revival (Psalm 85:6). The message is on the Internet if you would like to listen to it. Email me (tstiles163@aol.com) and I will send you the link.
Duane, Jason, and I are conducting Pastors' Briefings around the state. We are covering the church tax issue (exemption forms and actual taxes), the President's Agenda (he has a very pro-abortion and pro-gay agenda), the new order of State government (the Dems are in charge), our changes and goals, and Legislative Day (March 17).
Legislative Day (Tuesday, March 17) is the most important event in our year. It is the day that we invite Christians to join us for the day in Albany. We begin with a continental breakfast and our keynote speaker. Then we will hear several speakers on the issues of the day, honor Legislators that received a 100% rating from NYCF-PAC, and will be briefed by Jason and Duane. This year we are planning a few changes-including taking pastors to a meeting with our State leaders. Our theme is "To All Generations" and our keynote speaker is David Gibbs III, the son of the founder of the Christian Law Association. It should be a fantastic day-please join us if you possibly can. I am leading our Power in the Pulpit Initiative including writing a monthly newsletter, and developing a separate website (it should be up and running later this month).
My mother is 85 years old and lives by herself in her own home in Flint, Michigan. She spent most of December and January in either the hospital or a convalescent home. She is home now, and says that she is "doing pretty good." Obviously, this is a major concern for me, and I would appreciate you praying for her. She is pictured here with my daughter, Kim and her four kids from two years ago. Seth and Luke are both taller than mom now.
Changes: Duane Motley will step down as our CEO on June 30, and Jason McGuire will step up to that position. Duane will continue to serve as our "Senior Lobbyist" during the Legislative session (January to June) and consultant. My role will remain basically the same, except my title which is now "Director of Church Relations."
Power in the Pulpit Initiative-We are looking for a few good men! We began this ministry last June with a rally in Albany. Many of the pastors there asked us, "Now what?" I have been asked to develop this ministry that is designed to help pastors. I am writing a monthly newsletter, developing a website, and recruiting ministers to join with us. We are asking ministers to commit themselves to three things: (1) To preach on the issues of our day; (2) To pray for revival; and (3) To partner with us to turn New York back to the God of our fathers.
Finally, thank you for your faithful support-either financial or prayer, or both. I realize every day that there would be no ministry without your help.
January was a very fruitful time for our ministry. I presented The Battle for Life, a powerpoint presentation about abortion/life, in several churches. In one, a lady introduced me to her 13 year old son that she had almost aborted. She had called a crisis pregnancy help line, and a Christian woman had talked her into keeping her baby. We rejoiced together for a life that was saved. At another church, the altar was filled with people repenting either for themselves or our nation. In another church, a mom and her daughter and another teenage girl was saved. PTL!
I am also preaching a message entitled America in Crisis that has been a blessing. I believe that America is being chastened by God, and it may get worse before it gets better. The only hope for America is a national heaven sent revival (Psalm 85:6). The message is on the Internet if you would like to listen to it. Email me (tstiles163@aol.com) and I will send you the link.
Duane, Jason, and I are conducting Pastors' Briefings around the state. We are covering the church tax issue (exemption forms and actual taxes), the President's Agenda (he has a very pro-abortion and pro-gay agenda), the new order of State government (the Dems are in charge), our changes and goals, and Legislative Day (March 17).
Legislative Day (Tuesday, March 17) is the most important event in our year. It is the day that we invite Christians to join us for the day in Albany. We begin with a continental breakfast and our keynote speaker. Then we will hear several speakers on the issues of the day, honor Legislators that received a 100% rating from NYCF-PAC, and will be briefed by Jason and Duane. This year we are planning a few changes-including taking pastors to a meeting with our State leaders. Our theme is "To All Generations" and our keynote speaker is David Gibbs III, the son of the founder of the Christian Law Association. It should be a fantastic day-please join us if you possibly can. I am leading our Power in the Pulpit Initiative including writing a monthly newsletter, and developing a separate website (it should be up and running later this month).
My mother is 85 years old and lives by herself in her own home in Flint, Michigan. She spent most of December and January in either the hospital or a convalescent home. She is home now, and says that she is "doing pretty good." Obviously, this is a major concern for me, and I would appreciate you praying for her. She is pictured here with my daughter, Kim and her four kids from two years ago. Seth and Luke are both taller than mom now.
Changes: Duane Motley will step down as our CEO on June 30, and Jason McGuire will step up to that position. Duane will continue to serve as our "Senior Lobbyist" during the Legislative session (January to June) and consultant. My role will remain basically the same, except my title which is now "Director of Church Relations."
Power in the Pulpit Initiative-We are looking for a few good men! We began this ministry last June with a rally in Albany. Many of the pastors there asked us, "Now what?" I have been asked to develop this ministry that is designed to help pastors. I am writing a monthly newsletter, developing a website, and recruiting ministers to join with us. We are asking ministers to commit themselves to three things: (1) To preach on the issues of our day; (2) To pray for revival; and (3) To partner with us to turn New York back to the God of our fathers.
Finally, thank you for your faithful support-either financial or prayer, or both. I realize every day that there would be no ministry without your help.
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