MANTLE MINISTRIES

AFRICA, Sierra Leone

2012-01-19T06:13:00.000-08:00

AH! Africa. We were invited by Rev. Sidiki and Fatmata Kamara, (pictured above), of GEM ministries to Sierra Leone, Africa, to minister at their week long conference during the day and Crusade in the evenings. They planted and oversee 24 churches. The other ministers scheduled to preach with us had their flights cancelled, so we found our preaching schedule doubled. God is so faithful a midst these circumstances. Below is Pat preaching at the daily conference.

Every evening Terry would preach at the crusade. They spoke English, but the accent was so diverse that he had an interpreter.

On Sunday, while Terry ministered at one church, Pat was sent to two different churches. Pat's first church was a new plant in a very poor neighborhood. Below is Pat's path to that church.

Below is the new church plant building, where they had one bongo drum, singers and paper bags for the offering but this group sang from their heart and danced before the Lord so passionately it brought a cloud of dust in the air.

As we visited many other churches, the children were running to us in the villages so excited yelling "opoto" which means "white man." Something they don't often see.
A school that has been established at one of the churches. These children are studying for their exams coming up.
The children running to us as we visited the villages.
Below are pictures of the neighborhood that surrounds the church where we stayed. We loved that the church was right in the middle of this neighborhood and a great witness to the community.

Here is Pat sporting an African outfit that one of the pastor's wife helped her pick out.

Another awesome opportunity was that the church had their bible students living right in the church. When we weren't preparing for our next service, they would request times of fellowship with us. It was so enriching for all of us.

Thirty years ago God planted a dream in our hearts of going to Africa. We had no idea at the time that Sierra Leone would be the first country we would visit. It was a joy to work with GEM ministries and we left with our hearts full of the love of Africa.

ISRAEL 2011 - Day 4

2011-12-02T12:49:00.000-08:00

Day 4
The team has left the Sea of Galilee. They visited the sight on the Jordan River where they believe Jesus was baptized. They continued on their way and spent a great deal of time on the Mount of Olives. One of the most beautiful sights of the beloved JERUSALEM.

Jesus ascended to Heaven from the Mount of Olives and He will return to the Mount of Olives.

Acts 1:9-12 Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. 10 And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, 11 who also said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven."12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olives, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day's journey.

Can you just imagine literally walking through bible history. It doesn't get much better than this.

ISRAEL 2011 - Day 2 & 3

2011-12-01T17:31:00.000-08:00

Day Two in Israel consisted of visiting the army base in Golan heights, Caesarea Phillipi, Tel Dan and the children's home.
Day three consisted of a boat ride on the sea of Galilee, Mt. of Beatitudes, Capernaum and the Jordan River.

Stepping foot in Israel is something that one can only understand through experience. The team is walking and experiencing the God of Israel and walking with Him in His chosen land. 6,000 years of history and the bible becomes alive in living color. Tomorrow morning they leave the sea of Galilee and head to Jerusalem.

ISRAEL 2011

2011-11-30T04:40:00.000-08:00

Terry is currently with a team in Israel. Wonderful first day. Here is a picture at the air force base in the valley of Armageddon.
Terry and brother Benny on top of Mt. Carmel looking down on the valley where Elijah killed the prophets of Baal.
Ceaserea, where probably in that stadium, Apostle Paul was put on trial. Also, this is the area where the gospel was first brought to the gentiles. Much, much more history here.

Sun setting on the Mediterranean Sea. I can think of many bible heroes sailing this sea, some to run away from the Lord and others to bring the gospel to other lands.

Please keep this group in your prayers, that the God of this bible land, would reveal Himself in a greater way than any have experienced.

INTRODUCING:

2011-11-28T04:05:00.000-08:00

JACOB CHRISTOPHER BUNK
November 23, 2011
8 lbs. 4 oz.
20 in.

Genesis 45:10 " You shall dwell in the land...and you shall be near to me, you and your children, your children's children...and all that you have."

A blessed grandpa and grandma.

Grandma Neva with her 12th great grandchild.

Jacob is loved!

WORSHIP / ADORACION

2011-10-03T11:05:00.000-07:00

Matt, New Life's worship leader with Delmis and Primera Iglesia Metodista Libre de Passaic Worship Team

Passaic, New Jersey

SUMMER MISSIONS

2011-09-16T08:19:00.001-07:00

After this year's ministry trips to India, Haiti, Florida and Virginia, the summer has been incredibly busy. We would like to update you on what the Carlson's have been up to this summer and what in the WORLD are they doing.

JUNE - IRELAND

In Ireland we conducted a marriage seminar, parenting seminar, teaching, preaching, encouraging and meeting with leaders. Most of these young families came to Ireland for work. Leaving behind family and legacies, they were so hungry to hear what the Word of God says in these areas. Great time of ministry and encouraging fellowship.

Pastor Rachel and Barbara have been a dear friends for years and we always look forward to times of encouraging each other.

We are currently scheduling a return trip this February and again in the fall.

JULY - CHAMPIONS FOR LIFE KIDS CAMP

We spent two full weeks with the foster children that have been abused, abandoned and neglected and are currently in foster care. We cover this ministry with months of prayer and petitioning God on behalf of these children. It was once again a life changing experience for all.

AUGUST - ROMANIA

This year was special as we stayed in the home of newlyweds and leaders in the ministry. This afforded great times of encouraging and fellowship. The vacation bible school, where many of the young adults came to work with us, was incredible. Many opportunities for preaching God's Word, teaching and encouraging leaders in group and one on one format, including ministering at a men's camp out and a women's ministry day. Wonderful opportunities this August and thankful to God for this opportunity.

SEPTEMBER - NEW JERSEY

We joined a team to minister in a Spanish speaking church in New Jersey. Great times of ministry on Wed. Night, Friday Night Youth service, Teacher training on Sat. and Sunday service. Below is some of the team praying at the altar service.

Our son Tommy, not only preached Wed. Night, Friday Night and Sunday morning, but Terry and Tommy also poured into the leadership team one night.

This was a great year. In November we are expecting out 8th grandson. And within days of his birth, Terry will take a group to Israel. He will possibly have one week of turn around and we will head out to Africa for a pastor's conference. We are also asking for prayer as opportunities for next year are already arriving. We need prayer for the perfect will of God.
Once again we want to personally thank each one of your for your prayers, financial support and encouragement. We are blessed to have such faithful partners in this ministry.

JUDAH ANDREW

2011-06-08T05:20:00.000-07:00

Judah arrived June 1st at 8lbs. 9oz. He is perfect. Our 7th grandchild.

Gen. 29.35 "And she...bore a son and said "Now I will praise the Lord." Therefore she called his name JUDAH."

JUDAH means The Praise of the Lord/Praise/Celebrated/Praised

Prov. 17.6 "Grandchildren are the crown of grandparents, and parents are the glory of their children.

Here is grandma Neva with her 12th great grandchild.

"You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous ----and how well I know it." Ps. 139:13-14 (NLT)

Thank you Lord for our marvelous and perfect little
Judah Andrew!

HAITI - 2011

2011-05-27T08:07:00.000-07:00

After last year's devastating earthquake, Terry went down to Haiti to see what Mantle Ministies could do to help. We returned to Haiti this April with a small team to minister in three of Pastor Lamartine's churches. Here we are, back in a very familiar spot up in the mountains of Haiti.
In 45 seconds, this terrible earthquake did so much damage, not only physically but emotionally and spiritually. Here is Josiah, one of our team members, inspecting the staircase of one of the buildings that had been devastated.

In contrast to all that God was doing, we were in Haiti during the Rah Rah Season. Voodoo priests dress elaborately and are joined by fast drummers and bongas, a long tube-like instrument, filling the streets with dancing, singing and chanting. They travel around the country for numerous days and nights without sleep. We saw and heard them often, one time chanting right outside our house for a half hour at 2am. It brought a sobering reality of the great need for the gospel to be preached in this country where so many follow a false religion in fear and tradition. Some of the most moving times on this trip were the altar calls. Hundreds gave their hearts and lives to the Lord, and were baptized in the Holy Spirit. Working in all these churches was so rewarding as we know the leaders we met will follow up our work with pure dedication. They were all so grateful that we came.
Restoration in Haiti is very slow. We found so many that needed prayer, hope and encouragement.

We discussed with Pastor the possibility of returning next year with another team. Keep us in your prayers as we continue to follow God's will for this ministry.

INDIA

2011-01-15T06:45:00.000-08:00

On Jan. 26th, a little more than one week from today, Terry will be leaving for India. As it says in Acts 18.23"...he departed and went from one place to the next through the region...strengthening all the disciples." Ministry will be in the city and into the villages. Please note that the villages bring thousands of pastors and leaders, hungry for God. Below is one of the village conferences last year....
But the tent is set up in the middle of nowhere. This is to not attract too much attention.

Terry will once again be joining our dear friend and co laborer in the Lord, Brother Benny Matthews. It is such a pleasure to minister with him and serve our brothers and sisters in Asia.
Whether they are preaching to thousands or personal prayer for one, please pray that their
" speech and preaching (is) not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and power." They will be traveling around Northern India for two weeks and many of those attending having faced and endured incredible persecution and need a time of refreshing, encouragement and a personal ministering of the Holy Spirit.

Thank you once again, to all of our faithful supporters who help make this ministry possible. If you would like to receive our newsletter and be placed on our mailing list, please email us.

ISRAEL 2010

2010-12-15T10:44:00.000-08:00

Our trip to Israel this year included a team of 13. Everyone was a first timer to the Holy Land. What a privilege to introduce someone to Israel and watch the bible and 6000 years of history come alive in front of them day by day. One person described seeing the bible in living color. Another said that they had run out of English words to describe how wonderful, awesome and surreal this place was. Below is the picture of the group on a boat ride across the Sea of Galilee. As you ride so many stories come alive.

Below is a picture at sunrise on the Sea of Galilee. The fishing boats and the colors just add to the moment there.
One of the most memorable times this year was to watch the sunset over the city of David. The colors were stupendous and all were in awe that we were actually in Jerusalem, God's Holy City.
After watching the sunset on the Mt. of Olives, we went to the western wall, on the sabbath, in the middle of Hanukkah, and watched the Rabbi's light the Menorah.
Below is a picture of the Israeli soldiers. Look how young they are. They are ages 18-22. But we grew a great attachment to them as we visited the Navy Base and talked with these soldiers everywhere. Watching them cry in their Holocaust Center was a very moving moment. This is a picture of them at the Western Wall.

This was our view at lunch. Imagine looking out over the temple mount and the mount of Olives while you have a cappuccino. Only in Israel.
Below is a picture of a part of Nehemiah's Wall. Imagine building this with a sword in one hand.
EinGedi is where David was hiding from Saul. What a wonderful oasis in the dessert.
The Jordan River below carries with it so much history.
We had our own baptism service right there in the Jordan. Something we will never forget.
Below is the mount of Beatitudes. Picture each one of those banana trees as people and our Lord teaching the character His followers should emulate.

The entire trip in Israel was during Hanukkah season. Below is the precious time we had at the children home. We had the privilege of lighting the menorah and celebrating with these precious children.
Our course the uniqueness of this trip was the fire on Mt. Carmel. We were actually scheduled to be on that mtn. when the fire was lit. But miraculously and unbeknown to us, our plans changed and kept us safe.
Swimming or rather floating in the dead sea is always a great time of laughter.

Walking on the temple steps where Jesus actually walked daily into the temple. Behind Jim and Colleen is the actual arch that our Savior walked through. You can't imagine how it feels to be there in that place.

Unique to this trip was time to actually pray in the garden of Gethsemane where our Lord and Savior praying the night before His trial.
Praying "not my will but thine be done."
It was in this garden that we decided, as part of our ministry, that we need to take as many people as possible to Israel. It is that life changing. If you are interested in joining our group next year please contact us by email.
God Bless, Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah!

2010-11-29T03:27:00.000-08:00

ISRAEL

"For there shall be a day, that the watchmen upon the mount Ephraim shall cry, Arise ye, and let us go up to Zion unto the LORD our God." Jer. 31.6

After being home for only two weeks, we will be taking a team of thirteen people to Israel. In great anticipation we embark to see the Word of God and six thousand years of Bible history come alive for this group. Below is a picture of us on the temple steps, where Jesus walked when he went into the temple.

Below is a picture at EnGedi, where David was hiding in a cave from Saul. Seeing the actual geography enlightens the bible.

Please keep these 13 people in your prayers. May God richly reveal Himself to them in an even deeper way.

WESTERN EUROPE

2010-11-19T02:26:00.000-08:00

Paul said to Barnabus "Let's go back to every city where we spread the Lord's word. We'll visit the believers to see how they are doing." Acts. 15.36
Ps 26:7 That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.

IRELAND

We had the privilege to minister at a teen challenge in Ireland this year. After the precious time of ministry we were invited for tea and biscuits with the women living there. It was a excellent time of intimate sharing about life and Jesus. We are so grateful for this opportunity. Below is a picture of the home that houses the teen challenge program.

The theme of the conference this year was "saying YES." While Terry ministered to the adults, Pat was ministering to the children. Pat also had a time of teacher training with those that that work with the children in the church.
We had many meetings with leaders. It was done Irish style with food and tea. This setting allowed a more relaxed and intimate time of questions and answers for so many things that come up in ministry.
We were so blessed to see how much the church has grown in just one year. We had many moments of that special one on one ministry with new and old members of the church body. There were also some very intimate times of prayer.

BELGIUM

Our next stop was Belgium to Christian Church of Antwerp. It had been three years since our last visit and it was wonderful to again greet the old and meet the new brothers and sisters in the Lord.

Below we are with Pastors Wille and Nelly, our precious co-laborers in the Lord.
It was so exciting to see how much the church has grown in the last three years. The Sunday service was so filled that many people had to sit on the steps as they ran out of chairs.
We had many moments of one on one times of fellowship, encouragement and prayer for our precious brothers and sisters in the Lord.

Below is a picture of our precious brothers and sisters in Belgium. This is a Spanish speaking church in a Flemish speaking country, so it has it challenges. But God has been faithful.

If you are interest in getting our newsletter, which is more detailed, just send your name and address to our email address on the side of the blogsight.

Once again our extreme thanks to those who kept us in their prayers. We are eternally grateful.

LEAVING ON A JET PLANE....

2010-11-02T09:26:00.000-07:00

In just a few minutes we will be leaving for the airport.

WHERE?
IRELAND
Our first stop is Ireland. We have been invited to minister at their Autumnfest Conference 2010.
The theme is "Saying 'YES' - Obedience to God's vision." In addition to the conference, we will be very busy with some leadership meetings, teacher training for the children ministry workers, and encouraging our Irish friends and co-laborers in the Lord. The schedule is packed with ministry so please keep us in your prayers for wisdom, strength, anointing and health.

BELGIUM
We will also be heading to Belgium this trip. It has been three years since we last ministered in Belgium. We have heard our schedule will be quite busy there also. We would appreciate prayer for this part of the trip as we minister at this Spanish speaking church in a Flemish speaking country.

We will do our best to keep our friends, supporters and family updated as much as possible. Please feel free to comment on our blog as encouragement from home goes a long way when we are so far from home.

God Bless
Pastor Terry and Pat

Elijah Christopher Has Arrived

2010-09-28T19:57:00.000-07:00

The blessings of the Lord are endless. Our newest grandson:
Elijah Christopher
Arrived on September 21st at 2:43pm
7lb 15oz and 19.25 inches long

^{Ps. 71:18}Now that I am old and gray,

do not abandon me, O God.

Let me proclaim your power to this new generation,

your mighty miracles to all who come after me.

^{Ps. 78:4}We will not hide these truths from our children;

we will tell the next generation

about the glorious deeds of the LORD,

about his power and his mighty wonders.

Once again we witnessed God's incredible grace and the miracle of the birth of our new grandson. What a delight!

Romania - 2010

2010-08-25T07:36:00.000-07:00

TRAGOVISTE
This year's trip to Romania was exceptional. First of all we got to travel with our dear friends, Brian and Beth. As we arrived in Tragoviste at the Life of Hope Church, we were greeted by the many bothers and sisters that we have grown to love over the years. The Lord used and annointed the Molloys to encourage so many of our fellow laborers. We spent a great deal of time one on one loving, sharing and encouraging.

Below is a meeting with the leaders in the church.

The youth of the church helped us and their pastor's wife minister a VBS for three days. As you can see below they put their heart into the puppets and drama. The children loved it and a crowd was drawn daily.
Below is Joseph in jail asking the butler to not forget him when he goes to the Pharaoh.
Saturday night we were invited to join their family meeting. Terry ministered to the whole group and then we divided the men and women into groups. It was a time of questions and answers on subjects of marriage, parenting and involvement in ministry.
BUCHAREST
Our second leg of the trip was to travel to Bucharest to Casa Shalom Orphanage. We have been coming here for 8 years and it was delightful to meet up with old friends. One blessing we encountered was to buy some groceries for a family that Becky has been helping out. It was precious to spend some time with this family.

Below are some of the children that used to live at Casa Shalom. When we started coming most of them were little children. If you look closely you may recognize many of them. The little children have grown up and come back to help Becky with camps and other ministries over the summer. Their names
bottom row starting from the left
Catalin, Marius and Alex
top row from left
David, Estera, Mihaila,Elena, Raluca, Maria, Nicoleta holding Raluca's son, & Becky.
Having some fun at Casa Shalom. Terry picking up his cross daily

This next picture is a long story.

Please keep the Romanian church and our dear friends in your prayers.

Haiti Report

2010-05-26T14:30:00.000-07:00

Last month Terry traveled to Haiti to reunite with pastors and leaders we support. It was also to see what the Lord would have Mantle Ministries do there at this time. From the mountains, the country looks beautiful, but up close is the devastating poverty and brokenness of the people.
Some things have changed and some have not. The earthquake caused a great deal of devastation in an already impoverished country.

Below is the devastation of the parliament building.
Relief organizations from around the world brought many tents and much more. Below is a tent city. This was built in a park and for many may be a nicer home than they ever experienced.
Truck loads of clothes were delivered to the churches and neighborhoods. Below is brother Benny from Alpha Ministries in India, very familiar with developing countries, serving the Haitian people.
A trip to the port brought many more donations. Below is brother John who was delighted to serve the Haitians once again.
With the donations of the generous people we bought rice and oil to deliver to the hungry in the churches and neighborhoods. We are so grateful for those who in difficult times, reached out to be a blessing to those more unfortunate than they are.

Passing out the food and clothing is always a challenge in Haiti.
Below is the church in Artis. An earlier hurricane blew most of the church's roof away and the back wall was detached from the foundation. So they have rebuilt it wider and added a second story. But what has not changed, is that the people still walk hours to attend church in the best outfit they own with a hunger to know Jesus.
Inside the church.
Twenty years ago, we went every summer to deliver a VBS up in the mountains. It was so exciting to meet some of the now adults, remember coming to our VBS as children and now members of the church. Seeing fruit years later is a wonderful experience.

As Jesus said in Mk. 14.7 "..you always have the poor with you and whenever you can, do good to them..."

HAITI - EAST MEETS WEST

2010-04-16T12:00:00.000-07:00

This little country, almost hidden in the vast ocean, is not hidden from the heart of God

Next Week Terry will be traveling to Haiti and reuniting with this country and the ministers we have worked with in the past. John Puleo, who has experience with work teams will we joining him. John has helped build churches and schools in this nation in the past. Terry has ministered and helped start churches. Joining them on this trip is our dear friend Benny Mathews, who has an established ministry in India.

It is very exciting to help the East meet the West and see what the future holds.

Please keep these men in your prayers. They will be leaving Wednesday, April 21 and returning a week later. We are excited to see what the future holds.

DOUBLE PORTION

2010-03-29T04:25:00.001-07:00

"...in your land you shall possess a double portion; yours shall be everlasting joy." Isa. 61:7

On March 22, 2010 we received more of our heritage from the Lord. (Ps. 127:3) Tommy and Keri gave us two more beautiful grandchildren. The twins have finally arrived - Jonathan Edward 7lbs 1oz - 20 inches (on the right) and David Thomas 6lbs 12oz - -181/2 inches. (on the left) Thank you Lord for our beautiful healthy baby boys. Our heart has enlarged once again

Ps 34:3 O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together!

HAITI- THEN AND NOW

2010-03-06T15:19:00.001-08:00

Twenty years ago, Terry and I cut our teeth in missions in the impoverished country of Haiti. We would take a ministry team down there almost every summer. For years our home church has sponsored missionaries and children in this country. Due to the latest earth quake disaster, Terry felt impressed to take a trip in April to assess the situation and see what the Lord would have Mantle Ministries due in the near future, whether it is work teams, ministry teams or both. Below is a picture of the VBS where children would walk for hours to attend. They would wait for us to come and teach them about Jesus.

We would travel up in the mountains and all around the remote villages. In this village we did an evangelistic service where many gave their lives to God. That ministry team also left the fiances to establish a church.
We adopted these children in our hearts and it was always difficult to leave them. The children in these pictures are now adults.

The children are walking to the area where we held the village VBS. They would scream with delight as we drove into their area. These pictures from 20 years ago bring back such heartfelt memories.

We would like to thank all of you who made donations to Haiti. Terry will personally bring down the finances ear marked for Haiti to insure that it gets used by those in the most need . Haiti will always be dear to our hearts.

DETAILED REPORT OF INDIA-2010

2010-02-18T13:24:00.000-08:00

On Feb 1st, Terry was invited to minister in India only two days after our youngest daughter's wedding. Upon arriving and despite jet lag and time difference of 10&1/2 hours he was driven to a city crusade. The succeeding days he was taken out into a very remote village in the area of Vyara in the state of Maharasdra. As you can see from the picture, this large tent is set up in such a remote area. The tent seems to be in the middle of no where.
But this is where Alpha Ministries held their Alpha Impact 2010 Pastors and Leadership Conference. They had police and what is the Indian equivalent of our F.B.I. checking things out. But with God's favor they did not interrupt the meetings.

Where do they all come from? Over 1000 pastors and leaders were registered. Many had walked for miles to attend. They would sit on the floor for hours absorbing all the teachings and spend the night on mats. They have an amazing hunger to seek God and learn. Below is the women's side of the tent.

Below is a view of the men's side from the back of the tent.

At the conclusion of the Pastors and Leadership Conference, Terry had the unique experience to preach on a roof top meeting back in the inner-city. This was a church meeting, but the spotlight and amplification of Terry's voice drew the attention of the Hindu neighbors giving them the opportunity to hear the gospel.

Another first time opportunity was the visit to the Kripa Foundation. It is a secular center for alcoholics, drug addicts and AIDS victims. Also present were some children diagnosed with the HIV virus. A member of Alpha Church is the director and invited Terry to come and share his testimony and the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Here are some pictures Terry took while walking through the streets of India. You can see a local sidewalk barber and dentist. You never know what you will find on these streets.

Toward the end of the week, there was the invitation to preach at the Alpha Church. It was very exciting to reunite with friends of many years. This church was the original church which parents thousands of churches all over India and internationally. Once again, a huge thank you to all of you who made this trip possible. We can rejoice together for all the lives God touched. It is exciting to be a part of what God is doing around the world.

INDIA

2010-02-10T05:34:00.000-08:00

For the past 2 weeks Terry has been traveling around India. He called with so many stories and testimonies of the goodness and faithfulness of God. He started out in the city crusade and proceeded to the villages. People walk for miles to hear the Word of God and bask in His presence. God was faithful and the time in the villages was awesome.

Crowds at times are passionate and hungry. It is such a priviledge to serve these christians who at times face very difficult persecution.
After preaching at a crusade in the villages, he spent time preaching in Alpha Church, connecting with long time friends and encouraging leaders. He then had some unique opportunities to share in some awesome settings. For example he was preaching on a roof with amplification where the Hindis were stopping and listening. Awesome. He also had the opportunity to share with Indians in a non Christian setting with an incredible altar call. Details will follow when he returns. He will return this week end with hopefully pictures and we will update you on all that happened there. It has been an awesome trip.
Please continue to keep Terry up in your prayers for God to richly bless the people as he concludes his circuit of preaching. Also he asked for special prayer that the weather would cooperate so he can get home safely without any delays caused by the snow. In a few more days we will have updates on the entire ministry that went forth in India. Thank you for your support and prayers.
God Bless

THE WEDDING

2010-02-01T04:51:00.000-08:00

This past week end our youngest daughter became a married woman. After years of many prayers and patiently waiting for God's best, Jeni became the wife we always believed God wanted her to be. She was stunning both inside and out.

Her father proudly walked her down the aisle. Although it was a tad emotional as our baby was now leaving us, our joy and the presence of God filled the church.
After months of praying and planning, the day finally arrived. Lance and Jeni are married. As you can see, they are so happy together. Combine that with God's pleasure and you have a wonderful memorable day.

The family is close and we were all excited that the day finally arrived. As our family grows, our gratefulness to the faithfulness of God at times overwhelms us.
These three sisters have not only been a blessing in our lives, but they continue to love and encourage each other through everything. They all looked so beautiful.

The happy couple are on their way to life full of God's annointing and blessing. They leave for their honeymoon with our blessing and prayers for a future filled with God's direction and faithfulness in their lives. We look forward to see where God takes this gifted couple in the future.
Our gratefulness to God's faithfulness is overwhelming today. Preparing for this day came with so many stories of God's favor and direction. Thank you Jesus for continued grace and love in our lives.

IN A MANGER

2009-12-24T04:50:00.000-08:00

While in Israel, we were fortunate to see so many things too marvelous for words. Above is a picture of a manger thousands of years old. It is very possible that a cold hard carved stone manger was where the King of Israel was placed and not a cute wooden crib that we place under our Christmas tree. It was overwhelming to be shown how humbly our blessed Savior came to earth. His family was all alone when He came. It put "Christmas" in a whole different perspective. I wonder what God thinks when I sometimes complain about being uncomfortable?

Alone at birth, alone at death. Above is a picture of a deep dark stone dungeon where Jesus spent His last night before the cross. Abandoned by all, I am sure He communed alone with His Father and spent the dark lonely night in prayer for me. How can I ever find adequate praise and thanksgiving for such a loving God?
Below is a picture of a most treasured gift. I daily thank my Father for this beautiful family and I am awed at His faithfulness and grace to each one of us daily.
God bless you all from our family to yours as we all rejoice and celebrate how much the Father loves us.
MERRY CHRISTMAS

THE GOD OF ISRAEL

2009-12-09T06:44:00.000-08:00

Since we entered Jerusalem we haven't had a great deal of time. But what we saw and did from this city has been amazing. We drove down to the Judean Desert. There we ascended Massada by cable car to tour the 2000 year old fortress and palace of King Herod ( who didn't use it for long) This was also the place the Jewish people made their last stand after the destruction of the second temple. That whole story is amazing. Below is a picture of Ein Gedi. Remember the story of how David hid in a cave and as Saul entered it, he cut off the hem of his garment? Well below is a picture of the path to the cave. Beautiful waterfalls all along the way and we actually stood in the cave. Who would have thought all this was hidden in the wilderness? There were mtn. goats running up and down the hills and so fun to watch.
Below is a picture at Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. You can see one of caves in the middle of the picture. The next day we toured the museum where the scrolls were kept. This is what the wilderness looked like and I can't imagine what it was like to even spend much time here searching for scrolls. The stories of how they were found and what they did with them is incredible. From there we went and swam in the dead sea and floated like a cork. So fun.
The temple steps where our Savior would have entered the temple are pictured below. Pat is coming down the steps and it is one of the places they are absolutely sure that Jesus actually walked. If you look to Pat's left you can see an arch which was the entrance that has been sealed up to the temple and the Holy of Holies. We can't explain how it feels to be here! We also visited the pit where Jesus was imprisoned the night before He died. But visiting the Garden tomb was indescribable. And the list of things we saw and did goes on and on and on. Not only that, while we were driving the guide is constantly pointing out things and telling history.
The western wall was also a fabulous experience. Below is a picture of Pat praying at that wall. The wall is divided and the women and the men cannot be together and there is a wall separating them. How did Terry take this picture?

Below is a picture of the male side of the western wall where you can see the orthodox Jews in travailing prayer. It was awesome to spend some time in prayer here.

The tour that we were with has left and we are in Jerusalem alone. After visiting the western wall again for prayer, can you guess where Terry wanted to go? Here we are walking down in the Kidron Valley. Behind him is the wall of Jerusalem. It is the eastern wall where the temple is located and the gate through which Jesus is going to return. To his right is the city of David and looking up in front of him is the garden of Gethsemane and then the Mount of Olives. We spent a long time just walking around this valley. Needless to say, it was not crowded. In fact we were the only ones there. But down there was Absolom's pillar, the Tomb of Zechariah, and the Cave of Jehoshaphat.
Today we visited the Pools of Bethesda and also walked on the ramparts of the wall. That is the very top of the wall where the watchmen and the guards would have been. So cool. There is so much to see and do here. We walked around Jerusalem from morning until dinner. Indescribable.

An Unusual Day

2009-12-03T21:27:00.000-08:00

Above is a picture of the most unusual opportunity that arose today. Because our tour guide is a volunteer director of a charity that makes provisions for the North Israel Army, we had the most wonderful opportunity to go to the front line bunkers, literally on the border of Lebanon where the watchmen protect the border with high power rifles. We could see Lebanese bunkers where their watchmen were watching us. Phenonmenal!!
Above is Terry looking through THEIR binoculars....!!!! We were also there as these young Israeli soldiers (ages 18-23yrs.) were loading their guns to go out on patrol.
Above is a picture of a place during Jesus time of a pagan worship site called "the gates of hell." So when Jesus said "the gates of hell shall not prevail against the kingdom of God" it actually had a double meaning, the pagan shrine worship and the literal hell.
Here is a picture from the mount of beatitudes where Jesus taught and revealed those famous beatitudes in the bible. We actually read them up there on that mount. We were given a quiet time alone with God.
Then we went back and had dinner looking out at the sea of Galilee.
Shalom. The bus is leaving.

Israel- An Incredible Day

2009-12-02T08:17:00.000-08:00

WOW! How can we ever tell you all that we saw and experienced today. It was incredible to see the bible come alive before our eyes. But we will try and give you a thumb nail sketch. Above is the theater in Caesarea. On this stage where we are standing is the place where Paul was on trial and imprisioned in this city. Also this city is where Peter came to Cornelius's house from Joppa to bring the gospel to the gentiles. Amazing to see both ends of this story. Also there are ruins here from King Herod and the principal buildings, and port he erected. Pontius Pilate resided here. The crusaders came through here....and the list goes on and on. It was quite moving for Pat to sit in this theatre and picture Paul on trial. Amazing.
Above is the view from Mt. Carmel where Elijah challenged the prophets of baal. If you look closely you can see the winding brook where Elijah took the prophets of baal down and slew them. This valley is the future site of the Battle of Armageddon. From this mountain you can see the place Joshua fought one of his battles, the valley where Giddeon chose his army and where he fought the battle, the Mediterranean Sea where Elijah told his servant to go look for rain, Nazareth on the hillside, Solomon's chariot city, the Mount of Transfiguration......and the list goes on and on.....unbelievable . I had to actually drag Terry away from Mt. Carmel, the bus was leaving. Words do not describe this place and the pictures do not even come close.
This is the gate to one of Solomon's palaces. This is Megiddo that had 28 layers of civilizations and layers of history excavated. It would take all day just to tell the stories of this place. Five thousand years of history....
This is a sacrificial altar of the Canaanites. Can you see the steps leading up to the big round altar? They found a great deal of animal bones on this altar site. Just one of the layers of Megiddo.
This is in Nazareth. After Jesus read the scriptures in the temple that the "Spirit of the Lord was upon Him," they took Him up to this cliff where the city was built to throw Him off. He walked right through them. I am sitting on that cliff. Crazy.
Here we are with the Molloys standing at the Sea of Galilee. We drove to Tiberius on the Sea of Galilee where we will be spending the night.

Israel - The Sycomore Tree

2009-12-01T04:00:00.000-08:00

Today was another beautiful day. Above is a picture of the market at breakfast in Netanya. As you can see it was very crowded and a wonderful place to people watch.
The Mediterranean Sea was beautiful. The colors were magnificient and you can't help but think of the Majesty of the Lord.
We found an impressive old Sycomore tree. It is 1,000 years old and has a circumference of 8 meters. If you look closely you can see Pat at the base and get an idea of how large this tree was. If was fun to look at and we couldn't believe how twisted the trunk had become.
In Luke 19:2-6, Zacchaeus climbed a Sycomore tree to see Jesus. Terry is still up in this tree waiting for the Lord to call his name.
Shalom and Good night.

Israel - Old Jaffa/ Tel Aviv

2009-11-30T08:04:00.000-08:00

Today we got a little adventurous and decided to travel up the coast to "Old Jaffa," more commonly known as Joppa in the bible. This place has some bible history. The Cedars of Lebanon were brought here, for building the Temple in Jerusalem, by King Solomon "...in floats by sea to Joppa." (2Chron.2:16). Also once again, Ezra brought cedars from Lebanon to rebuild the temple "to the sea of Joppa." (Ezra 1:3)
It was fun to walk around this old city and think of all that happened here in the old and new testament.
Below is the house of Simon the tanner. It is believed that on the roof of this building Peter saw a vision that opened the way for spreading Christianity to the gentiles. This location had a beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sea and the port of Joppa.
Old Jaffa is the world's oldest seaport. Below are the remains of the original wall.
Below is the seaport and the old city. This is where Jonah the prophet caught a boat and tried to run away from the Lord's calling on his life.
This is what the seaport looks like today.
Below is a picture of Tel-Aviv from Jaffa. We also traveled around TelAviv today.
The weather was again beautiful and we had a wonderful day.
Shalom from the Carlson's

Israel - The Mediterranean Sea

2009-11-29T10:40:00.000-08:00

Watching the sun set on the Mediterranean Sea, one cannot stop thinking and talking about how not too far up the coast from here, Paul and Barnabus took their first missionary journey. Acts 13:42 "Many jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabus and the two men urged them to continue to rely on the grace of God."
The sunset was beautiful and it was fun watching some kids fish as the sun was slowly setting.
Above was an elderly man fishing with nets in an old boat. We enjoyed just watching him and thinking of some of our bible heros that were fishermen when our Lord called them to come and follow Him.
Above is the beautiful view from the promenade in Netanya. With the high cliffs and t-shirt weather, we had a wonderful day.
As the locals say "Shalom."

Israel

2009-11-27T13:50:00.000-08:00

Jer. 31:6 "There will be a day when watchmen on the mountains of Ephraim will call out this message: 'Arise! Let's go to Zion, to the Lord our God''

In just a couple of hours we will board a plane to the destination of our dreams, Israel.

Nu 14:7-8 "And they spake unto all the company of the children of Israel, saying, The land, which we passed through to search it, is an exceeding good land.

If the LORD delight in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it us; a land which floweth with milk and honey. (KJV)

We will arrive early Sunday morning.

"THE CALL" - IRELAND

2009-11-08T22:21:00.000-08:00

On October 27th, we arrived in Dublin airport. A team of five ministered at their second annual conference. Pictured above is Pat Johnson, Patrick Mullins, Pastor Terry, Pastor Pat and Cora Chaffin. A team that drove straight to the church from the airport and worked continually for a week. This team preached 5 adult services, one youth service, one leadership training, 8 children's ministry services and 5 services of nursery duty. It was exhausting, exciting and blessed all at the same time.
The children loved to dress up and be involved in the bible skits.
We used many modes of teaching to the children. They loved the eagle puppet and Cora who acted as a little girl who finally received the lord into her heart after days of searching for the truth and the reason she was created.
The team was continually loved by the children.
These children were so eager to learn. They wanted to participate in everything and to the parents delight went home excitedly telling them all they had learned that day.

The children were eager to learn to go deeper in worship with their Lord.

Then there were the five services to the adults. While the rest of the team was upstairs ministering to the children and infants, Pastor Terry preached morning and evening to the adults. Many reports of what the Lord was doing in the hearts of the people was encouraging. Pastor James felt that God was going deep into the hearts of the people with much needed refreshing after coming out of months of construction and hard work in the church.

Saying good-bye is always the hardest part. It seems each year we get closer and closer to our Irish brothers and sisters. Some of the children cried while many adults were disappointed we couldn't stay longer. With promises of returning, we departing feeling the Lord's pleasure on this conference and on the Family Worship Centre.
God was faithful to once again, give times of refreshing, binding up the broken-hearted, renewing the call of God on many peoples lives, through His Spirit. We are so grateful that He allows us to be a small part of the great things God is doing around the world.

IRELAND CHURCH CONFERENCE

2009-10-17T13:34:00.000-07:00

On October 26th, we will be leaving for Ireland with a small faithful mission team. We will be working with Pastor James and Rachel (pictured above with their family.) We have been asked to return for our second annual church conference. The theme this year is the "Call of God." One exciting component this year is that they have just completed their new church building. Last year, while we were there, it was under construction. Below is a picture of the Pastors dedicating their building to the Lord.
Below is a picture of the new sanctuary where we will be ministering the conference. We will be leaving Monday, October 26th and returning Wednesday, November 7th. Spending 10 days encouraging, refreshing, ministering and fellowship with our precious Irish brothers and sisters in the Lord is greatly anticipated.
Below is a map of southern Ireland. It is small but if you look closely you can see a small yellow dot where Portlaoise is located. Dublin, which most people are more familiar with is to the east. We fly into Dublin and drive to Portlaoise, staying in the homes of the warm Irish church members. This conference includes a Kids Club Vacation Bible school for 3 days, a service to the youth, 5 services to the adults, one leadership session and 5 more services to the children. We also serve in their nursery enabling church members to attend the conference. This is quite a full and exciting itinerary. We ask that you keep us in our prayers.

THREE YOUNG MARTYRS

2009-09-23T19:29:00.001-07:00

When our oldest daughter, Lori was 15 years old, she went to Africa for a month. She recently posted this blog and we wanted to share it.

WARNING: GRAPHIC POST OF MARTYRS AHEAD

While I was in Uganda, we visited the tomb of 3 young Christian boys who were martyred for Christ. As our guide was telling us the story, I remember not being able to hold back the tears. I was the exact age of the oldest boy that had given his life. Even after all these years, I never forgot their story...

In the morning Mackay heard that three of the boys who had been captured on the previous day were not only bound as prisoners, but that Mujasi was threatening to burn them to death. The boys were named Seruwanga, Kakumba, and Lugalama. The eldest was fifteen, the youngest twelve.

The boys were led out with a mob of howling men and boys around them. Mujasi shouted to them: "Oh, you know Isa Masiya (Jesus Christ). You believe you will rise from the dead. I shall burn you, and you will see if this is so." A hideous roar of laughter rose from the mob. The boys were led down the hill towards the edge of a marsh. Behind them was a plantation of banana trees. Some men who had carried bundles of firewood on their heads threw the wood into a heap; others laid hold of each of the boys and cut off their arms with hideous curved knives so that they should not struggle in the fire.

Seruwanga, the bravest, refused to utter a cry as he was cut to pieces, but Kakumba shouted to Mujasi, who was a Mohammedan, "You believe in Allah the Merciful. Be merciful!" But Mujasi had no mercy.

We are told that the men who were watching held their breath with awed amazement as they heard a boy's voice out of the flame and smoke singing,

"Daily, daily sing to Jesus,
Sing, my soul, His praises due."

As the executioners came towards the youngest and feeblest, Lugalama, he cried, "Oh, do not cut off my arms. I will not struggle, I will not fight--only throw me into the fire."

But they did their ghastly work, and threw the mutilated boy on a wooden framework above the slow fire where his cries went up, till at last there was silence. One other Christian stood by named Musali. Mujasi, with eyes bloodshot and inflamed with cruelty, came towards him and cried:

"Ah, you are here. I will burn you too and your household. You are a follower of Isa (Jesus)."

"Yes, I am," replied Musali, "and I am not ashamed of it."

CFL KIDS' CAMP 2009

2009-08-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

It never ceases to be amazing the volume of volunteers that make Champions For Life Kids' Camp such a success. The picture above are the volunteers from week 1. This is doubled week two to make a small army. We took 62 children the first week, followed by 61 children the second week.

In the words one of our campers:
"It is so so so much fun. It helps me with my problems. "

In a letter to God another camper wrote:
"Thank you for helping me forgive and forget the past. I love you Jesus, you are my super hero!!"
Below is the campfire where we ask Jesus to burn the pain of our past memories. The campers took time to write down their pain on a piece of paper, rip it up and place it in the pot. We then ask Jesus to burn the pain of the memories of our past, while we symbolically burn the papers in our bonfire. One young boy described it as "God tickling his heart"
We had many wonderful new additions to our camp this year. The owner of Michelle's shoe store came up to camp, measured every child's foot and fitted each one with a new pair of shoes. One boy was drawing a Nike sign on his shoe earlier in the week to make his shoe look better so you can imagine his thrill to get a new pair of shoes. Many of the girls wanted to wear their new shoes with their formals to their birthday party. Another addition was our princess party and boot camp. While the boys were taught how to be a soldier of the Most High God, the girls learned that they are all princesses because they are daughters of the King of Kings. Below is a picture of our princess party.
In God's word pure religion is described as this: to remember the fatherless. Each and every year this camp grows through the faithfulness of God. We are so grateful to the hundreds of volunteers that are willing to lay down their life for one week to love a child. The fruit of this endeavor is tremendous. Many of our staff and volunteers follow up throughout the year and keep in contact with these campers, encouraging them and speaking into their lives.

CFL Kids'Camp

2009-07-09T14:27:00.000-07:00

Sunday we head for camp. Champions for Life Kids' Camp is our camp for foster children and children in dependency care. The first week we are taking 62 children and the second week we are taking 64 children. Please keep these children in your prayers, that God will do a miracle to heal their broken hearts and reveal Himself to them as their Savior and Redeemer. God is the father to the fatherless. We want them to know that they are created by God and He has a special purpose for their lives, giving them hope for a future. Two weeks, two separate groups of children. Please keep these 126 children and the volunteers in your prayers.
"My favorite part was when I threw all my pain in the lake."
(The lake of forgiveness)

Romania - home again

2009-06-30T17:02:00.001-07:00

Hope of Life Worship

We are home again and a little jet lagged. Above is the Hope of Life Worship Team ministering at the City Wide Crusade in Romania. Those of you that have joined us on one of the Romania Mission Teams will recognize many old and new friends. Laura, the new worship team leader, was very nervous, but as you can see did a great job. God is so faithful and He received all the glory.

It was a wonderful trip. We saw, not only new converts to Christ, but some old friends rededicate their life to their Savior. Everyone asked when we were coming back and said their "hearts were full of joy at our returning as they consider us family." We have always taught that moments matter but when one of the leaders told us they considered us their spiritual parents, we were amazed at how the Lord can take a few weeks, some Internet time and multiply it to be so fruitful. One set of new parents told us they were doing everything we told them, now what is next. What a privilege to serve such hungry, faithful believers. We are in communication as to whether there is a need for us to return in August.

Please keep us in your prayers as we adjust to a full schedule of summer missions.This Sunday we will be ministering at the Macomb Correctional Facility, our State Prison. Some of these inmates are the parents of the children we take to Champions for Life Kids' Camp. Keep both the parents and the children in your prayers, that Jesus will draw them close to His heart, into a personal relationship with Him and heal all the past memories.

Romania - Wednesday

2009-06-24T01:45:00.000-07:00

The final night of the crusade was exciting. Again new children and families came to participate in the children's program. It was such an honor to introduce children to their creator. God's presence was sweet and tender toward them.
The young people helping us were sad when the program concluded. They were a delight to work with and we had several opportunities to encourage them and speak into their lives.
We ministered with a faithful team from Germany that hold evangelistic crusades in Kenya and Sudan, Africa. The evangelist Pastor Peter Franz and his wife Becky are pictured on the right along with the rest of their team. It was a delight to work with them this week.
Pictured above is Pastor Miahi and his family. Please keep them in your prayers as there are many changes taking place in their church. They also have the follow-up work for the children and adults that committed their lives to Christ.

The crusade was lead by the Hope of Life Church. For Laura, the worship leader, it was her first big event. Her mother attended the crusade to see her sing, first time ever! The young woman we witnessed to earlier in the week rededicated her life Sunday evening while the church was rejoicing.

The rest of the week included evaluation and testimony meetings. We also had time to catch up and encouraging old friends and developing the church's children's ministry. God has not ceased to amaze us this entire trip.

Romania - Sunday

2009-06-20T23:46:00.000-07:00

More new parents and children came to the crusade and God's presence was precious. The children are very receptive to the Word of God and all that is happening.
Everything seemed to run a little more smoothly on Saturday. We are amazed at the dedication of these young people. They come daily to pray and eager to practice. They are so faithful to prepare for ministry. In the middle of all this, we had a moment to witness to a young woman that had left the church three years ago.

Last night started with Christian Hip Hop. The altar call was larger with people needing something from God. Thank you for your prayers as this schedule could be exhausting but we are continually refreshed. We had opportunity last night to minister one on one to many. God is so amazing.

Tonight is the final night of the crusade. The Hope of Life Church worship team is ministering tonight. Keep us in our prayers.

Romania - Saturday

2009-06-19T23:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was extremely busy. We started with a prayer ceremony to bless a new marriage in the church. Then on to practice for the children's program. The young people were eager to be a part and wonderful to work with. We had a lot of laughs and fun preparing. Last summer we taught the teens and young adults how to execute their first V.B.S. So preparing for this crusade was an easy transition as the foundation had already been laid. Above is a picture of the practice.
It is exciting to see how many of the young people had remained faithful throughout this past year. They are involved in everything and questioning how they can do more for the Lord. Their energy and passion is so refreshing.

After practice we headed to the conference center to set up. As if the green shirts didn't attract enough attention, imagine walking three blocks with a 5-foot blown up whale. The program was a success and many new children attended the children's crusade. The only difficulty we ran into was having to completely tear down every night and set up again the next day as it is a rented facility. Above and below are pictures of the actual program.
After the children's program, the adult crusade began with bands, dramas, videos and preaching. There was a nice crowd and a good first night. Please keep us in prayer as we have another two full days of the crusade. Our health is strong, our energy is high and God is continually amazing us.

One more note, if you have been to Romania with one of our teams, the church members are asking about you. You have left your imprint here and they want you to know they love and miss you all!

Romania - Friday

2009-06-18T23:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was another busy day starting with prayer and followed by teaching sessions. We then hit the streets in our bright green shirts passing out fliers inviting people to the city wide crusade. The people were very receptive and we are believing for many souls this week-end. The church has passed out about 15,000 fliers. Terry believes we personally passed out 1,000 of them. Please agree in prayer with us for souls.
We squeezed in many moments of one on one ministering and encouragement. Many were eager to inform us of all that has happened in their lives this past year. They also asked our opinions on so many subjects such as relationships, dating, marriage, parenting, God's will and calling on their lives, hearing God's voice, and submission to authority to name a few.
Last year, Florine, the young man on the left, sat down with Terry as he had an interest in missions work and had never left Romania. Now ten months later, he has been on two mission trips to Bulgaria and Albania. When we retired for the night we had many stories to share with each other. It is wonderful to reunite with our Romanian family we have come to know, love and serve these past 6 years.

Romania - Thursday

2009-06-17T22:51:00.000-07:00

We arrived in RomaniaTuesday afternoon and went straight from the airport to the church. We were greeted with so many old friends and it was wonderful to catch up in everyone's life. A lot has happened in a year. We have been very busy preparing for the crusade this week-end. The picture above is an intense time of prayer which takes place daily.

Above is a picture of Pat with Elisa, the pastor's wife. They are preparing for the children's program which will take place every night of the crusade. Below is one of the sessions with the church to encourage and teach them in preparation for the crusade.

We have finally adjusted to the time change and it is glorious to be here. We are very busy and have almost every minute scheduledm including prayer, teachings, and passing out fliers. Terry found the only English speaking man on the street to minister and invite to the crusade. We have met some ministers from Germany who work in Africa that have come to also help with the crusade. It is such a blessing to work with such a passionate group of young people believing God for souls to come to know Christ this week end. Please keep this crusade in your prayers.

LEAVING FOR ROMANIA

2009-06-12T01:59:00.000-07:00

With not much turn around we are heading to Romania. We will be leaving Monday, June 15th and will be working with Life of Hope Church in conducting a city wide crusade in Tragoiviste, an hour and a half north of Bucharest. Above is a picture of some of our dear friends and leaders in the church.

This crusade will also include a program for the children of their city and they have asked us to come and help with this outreach. Above is a picture of the youth pastor and some of the young people we worked with last year to train for the children's ministry. We are excited to return and work with them again.

Please keep us in your prayers. As the internet is available to us, we will try and keep our friends and supporters updated as we travel.

Macomb Correctional Facility

2009-06-05T10:59:00.000-07:00

After only having a few days to adjust back to the American culture, we were scheduled to minister at the Macomb Correctional Facility. This state prison can appear intimidating from the outside, but inside we have come to know some precious brothers in the Lord. We were greeted with smiling faces and friendly greetings. They were telling us that they had read our blog about Colombia and had been faithfully praying for us. It was so refreshing after a week in a developing country to find so many of them had kept us up in prayer. The ministry on Sunday, not only reported about the poor street children in Colombia and what Jesus was doing there, but it brought many of these men to a vulnerable place where they had similar childhoods. We taught on the Father's blessing. At the conclusion of the ministry, one young man said "thank you, now it all makes sense." Another said " Thank you, that was emotional for me, but if I cry they will label me emotional and put me with the crazy guys."

A few thoughts from Pastor Terry

2009-05-25T19:36:00.000-07:00

Colombia is a beautiful country and the masses of people are wonderfully gracious. Medellin has streets full of small shops and street venders, always crowded and alive with friendly and interesting people. I thoroughly enjoy walking down the streets, taking in this vastly different culture ( and of course eating empanadas).

But, we have come here to work with Open Arms Ministry. They reach out to the poor, homeless and abused that come from a history of such evils as drug addicted parents, glue sniffing children, mothers prostituting their children and physical abuse. These children have grown up in an environment of gangs, pornography, sex and poverty. Therefore, we find it a necessity to also report about this.
Thank God for Christian people who lay down their lives for this most difficult and thankless service, ministering to those caught in this great darkness. They hold on to some miraculous testimonies and wonderful successes, but too much of the time their hearts are broken by those that do not follow Christ.

COLOMBIA, Sunday

2009-05-24T14:15:00.000-07:00

We have discovered a new ministry for our youth. Selling empanadas in front of the church. Above is one of their faithful teens who set up before we got to church. The director said they will let me bring the empanada flour to the states. Do we know anyone who can make them? Below is a closer look. For those who do not know, empanadas are fried dough filled with meat and potatoes. They taste much better than they look.

The church was filled this morning. We enjoyed seeing old friends and meeting new ones. Terry ministered and was well received. There was a great response to the altar call and precious time of prayer. Below is a picture of Terry with his interpreter, the founder's son, Mike.

Pat with Pastora (Pastor's wife), children, niece and nephew. This is a precious family.

After the service Bill and Wanda, the founders of Open Arms Ministry took us out to eat. Then they brought us to a village where the Spanish first settled in Colombia. It was a beautiful place up in the middle of Medellin. The mountains surrounded the entire area and it was easy to appreciate God's creation here.

This is Clara. This is the little girl that Bill and Wanda are adopting. When she was born, the doctor tried to sell her and they fought for her. She is about 18 months old. Look at those eyes and tell me if she doesn't remind you of someone?

Another wonderful God given day in Colombia.

COLOMBIA, Saturday

2009-05-23T18:41:00.000-07:00

Our morning started with our favorite breakfast on the street: AREPAS! Arepas are a kind of pancake made with corn flour and cheese on top. Muy Delicioso!

Then to the barrio for Children's Ministry. Many children came and participated. It was exciting to be there. Open Arms is going into the neighborhoods to reach the young children before they start living the life of drugs and prostitution on the streets.

Here is Pat with a few of the children. Aren't the Colombian children beautiful?

In the afternoon we made home visits to the families of the children that attend the outreaches here. The staff counsel the families and invite them to church on Sunday.

This is in one of the homes. This 74 year old grandmother is raising her granddaughters after her daughter died. The granddaughter is only 15 and has an 8 month old baby. There aren't any men around to help. This grandmother is blind in one eye and very discouraged. We visited many homes this afternoon and each one needs our prayers.

Who needs a gym membership when you walk around the mtns. of Colombia?

We are loving our time here in Colombia. As Terry once said "Follow me honey and I will show you the slums of the world!"

Thank you all for keeping us in your prayers. We have felt the hand of God on us the whole week and are grateful for all of you remembering to pray for us. Tomorrow is church, Colombian style. Jesus es poderoso!

Colombia, Friday

2009-05-22T12:56:00.001-07:00

Above is the view from Enoc and Cristina's 9th floor apartment. The bible study here with the women went well. Jesus touched many of them. Three women were on the floor crying out to Jesus. God is so faithful.

Below is a picture of the young ladies at the girls' home. Last time we were here they had 5 girls and more on the way. But the young girls get homesick and the older ones "need" to get back home and "work" for their families. They call prostitution their work. The girls can quickly make a lot of money to support their families. It is very sad how young they are and how difficult it is to keep them in the program. Sometimes the families come and take them back and other times they run away.
Below is a bridge over the river. On each side of the bridge is a different gang. Many young people have died in this area, fighting for their territory. Just recently five young men died. Open Arms Ministry is doing its' best to change this. God's creation is so beautiful and we are praying for God to take these kids and this area back for His glory.

We traveled with many forms of transportation this week. Walking up and down the steep mtns. gave us our daily exercise. It was difficult when they run into children that used to be in the program. Young boys that have run away and are back on the streets sniffing glue. Heartbreaking to say the least.

We also took the metrocable, which can give you a view of the city from the air. The poverty gets worse, the higher you go.

This is the metrotram. This can be very crowded at times. One of the security guards warned us to watch our backpacks.

Tomorrow we will be going to one of the poorest areas to do children's ministry.

They have asked Terry to preach at their Sunday service. He covets your prayers.
Dios de bendiga!!!

COLOMBIA, Thursday

2009-05-21T10:20:00.001-07:00

This morning we went to the foundation. Above is Terry preparing to minister to the staff. Below is Pat practicing her Spanish with the Foundation's psychologist. It was much more difficult to converse with the educated than talking to street kids. When he asked "how my stay in Colombia has been so far, has it been good," I could only understand the word good. We had a lot of fun trying to communicate and the people appreciate that I am trying.

Below are some of the girls that daily come to the foundation. This is stage one where the girls come from the streets to eat breakfast and a bible study. Note the swimming pool in the back, which is the lure to the program. Two of the girls are being prepared to go to the girls home next Tuesday.
EMPANADAS! This one is for Tommy. Eating empanadas in Colombia. (However, Tommy's mother makes a much better empanada.)

Tonight Pat will be ministering to the woman's bible study. This will be held in Cristina and Enoc's apartment.

Colombia

2009-05-20T17:53:00.000-07:00

We had an interesting route here. Our first flight was delayed due to a broken landing gear light. Then there was a medical emergency on the flight, so we needed to allow the medical team to exit the man to an ambulance. We had ½ hour to reach our connecting flight, only to have a fire alarm go off in the airport with an announcement saying wait for future instructions as the fire dept. checked it out. But we made it to Colombia on time with our hosts excitedly waiting for us at the airport. We took a bus followed by a taxi to their apartment in middle of the city.

We left bright and early for the boys farm this morning. We walked 1/2 hour to the tram, rode the tram for another 1/2 hour. Then we had to wait for our bus for an hour. It had broken down. When the bus came, we rode for another hour up 8,000 ft. in the mtns. Then we walked another couple miles to get to the farm.
It was well worth it. The boys' farm now house 37 boys from ages 9-26. Each boy has a story and if there is one problem, it is that there is not enough help. We enjoyed a full day up in the mountains with these boys. Each boy was taken off the streets. Parents are dead, drug addicts, or even worse. It is a hard work, but they are beginning to see some fruit of their labor. the older boys are being trained to work in the ministry. Below is one of the many homes where they house the boys. They were very organized and clean.
Here is Pat with one of the younger boys. They all loved all the attention they could get from the adults. Today brought visitations, encouragement, children's ministry for the younger boys, discipleship for the older boys, lunch, tutoring, and then soccer. The boys were excited to practice their English with us, and Pat practiced her Spanish with them.
Before the boys could start their soccer practice, they had a devotional with their coach. Below is a picture of some of the boys on the soccer field.
All in all today was exhausting but wonderful. Tomorrow morning Terry is preaching to the staff at the foundation. Please keep us in your prayers for strength and wisdom.

COLOMBIA, MEDELLIN

2009-05-13T00:38:00.000-07:00

This Tuesday we will be traveling to Medellin, Colombia. We have been invited to work with Open Arms Ministry, a ministry to impoverished street children. This ministry rescues children from a life on the streets of begging, drugs and prostitution. They go into very poor areas and invite the youth to their swimming pool. They also feed them and do a bible study. The work is difficult and has 4 stages, from bible studies to housing and mentoring them into adults.

The parents and drug lords are their worst enemies. They do not like loosing their greatest source of income. We have met children who were beat so badly their bones were even broken because they did not bring home enough money. Girls as young as 8 years old were in prostitution and young people so addicted to drugs they could not function. How can you not do something to help when the Lord allows you to see such things?

Here is a picture of Enoc and Cristina, they are in leadership in Open Arms Ministry. We will be staying in their home. Enoc is Colombian growing up as a pastor's son in a very poor neighborhood has enhanced his heart to reach the street kids. His wife Cristina is from Brazil and works endlessly for the hurting and lost in this area. Here is our latest correspondence:
"Hello my family from away
I am so thankful to God to bring people like you both into our lives and ministry.
I am organizing my schedule...And believe me there will be a lot things that you are going to be able to help. Waiting for you with OPEN ARMS"

A picture of some of the girls in the home. Note how young they are.

The boys' ranch houses many boys. These boys below are playing soccer with their coach, a young man who grew up on the streets and spent time in jail. Once he found the Lord, he volunteered to help these boys develop a better life for themselves. Each one has a story that would break your heart.You can follow our work on this blog when we have Internet access. Please keep us in your prayers. Colombia is not only a developing country, it is listed by Voice of the Martyrs as the only country in South America with great persecution against the Christians. The guerrillas and drug lords do not like anyone that could get in their way of extortion and drug trafficking.

CFL Returns

2009-05-02T08:57:00.000-07:00

Champions for Life Kids' Camp will continue to be a part of our home mission's project. We have over 24 churches represented in our community that volunteer at this faith based camp. This camp is specifically designed for foster children and children at risk. Most of these children have been through very painful situations in their home life. These children learn to realize that they were created by a loving God and that He has a specific plan for their future.

CFL training is starting back up again. 20 new volunteers are now meeting once a month to train for the CFL 2009 summer camp. They will join the other 100 returning volunteers in June.

Here are some pictures from previous years at camp. There are many special moments where the children get specialized attention. Moments matter at this camp.

Children, who were forced into growing up too soon, come to camp and are encouraged to just have fun. They learn that there are adults whom they can trust. They also learn that they have a God who will always love them unconditionally.

There is a special moment where we write down our bad memories of the past. As we burn these memories, we ask Jesus to heal the pain of our past.

Sometimes the life of a foster child is very unstable. As they move around a lot, their birthday is sometimes forgotten. Therefore, we have established each year to have a birthday celebration where each child receives a personalized birthday cake, presents, and love for whom they are.

Please keep these children, some with horrific backgrounds and stories, in your prayers.

Prison Ministry

2009-04-18T05:56:00.000-07:00

Think about how many stories in the Bible involve a prison or a jail. The word "prison" actually occurs 77 times throughout the Bible. Recently, we have had the opportunity to minister at one of our state prisons, the Macomb Correctional Facility. The prison sits on a 100-acre site and contains security levels I, II, and IV.

Our son-in-law, Tommy Sheerer, is the chaplain there and has developed a strong church within the prison. There are 4 services every Sunday with the prisoners themselves leading the worship. Each service has about 50 prisoners who come in search of a loving and forgiving God. It has been a joy and pleasure to minister to these men. Please join us along with Chaplain Sheerer in prayer for revival in the prison.

India 2009

2009-04-04T07:13:00.000-07:00

In the movie, Slumdog Millionaire, a young boy from the slums of India becomes a millionaire and leaves the slums. In contrast, we consider ourselves "Slumdog Missionaries" using our resources to go the slums of India, where we love every minute of it.

We traveled to India early this year. While we were there, we ministered at four separate pastors' and leaders' conferences. Each conference was located in a different remote village and lasted 3 full days.

Pastor Terry also prayed over and commissioned the graduates of Alpha Bible College. These students know they must be willing to pray, preach or die at any given moment. They took their call very seriously.

There were also times of ministering to specific national ministers who needed much encouragement.

Pastor Terry was asked to preach at the mother church of Alpha ministries and was greeted by his great friends of over 20 years. Here is a picture of Pastor Pat with Dr. Matthews Cherion, the founder of Alpha Ministries.

Pastor Pat was invited to minister to 53 children with Hindu background at a bible study.

During this trip, God far exceeded our expectations of His faithfulness! Here is a video of one of the passionate worship services.

New Blog!

2009-03-28T19:45:00.001-07:00

Thank you for visiting our new blog!! We are excited about keeping our family, friends, and supporters updated with our ministry as we serve God in the calling of missions. Please feel free to contact us or post a comment. We would love to hear from you.