April, 2009 A Retreat in Asia

At the end of January, we traveled to Bali for the PAOC World Retreat. We had a nice time there meeting with friends we know and we met new friends who share the same heart with us.    

It was a great time to spend with Darla (Teresa’s sister), who came out to join us, which made it that much nicer.  We shared great times of fellowship, fun and good food.

Upon returning to Ethiopia, we got back into the work here.  Many guest teachers have been with us teaching in the college.  The month of February was great as many helpful seminars and training programs went forward.  Healthy teaching on the Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts was given in the north, south and in Addis Ababa.  What a treasure to help lay spiritual foundations in the church leadership.  Terri and I both taught courses in the college as well.  

It has been an exciting time. Thanks for your continued support and prayers.  

Youth: Making an Impact

Recently, at one of our youth meetings, one of the youth told us of an amazing day she had at school that week.  A Muslim schoolmate approached her and asked her to share her faith.  Our youth girl then proceeded to tell the Muslim girl about Christ and the trinity.  

The Muslim girl said, “It is difficult to please God!”  Our youth girl then told her that it was difficult to please God but not impossible because Jesus made a way.  

After their conversation, the Muslim girl thanked our youth girl for sharing with her and left her with the words, “You have hope!”  It was an eye opener for the girl from our youth group to see what a blessing it is to know and walk with God.  We are excited to see what God is doing among the young people of our church.  Please keep them in your prayers as they live for Christ.

Baptisms

This last Sunday we had the privilege of baptizing five new converts.  One of the young couples from our church leads an outreach ministry that has won many to the Lord.  They have been attending our church for some time now and were feeling that they wanted to make their commitment to Christ public.  It was a celebration of new life in Christ.  God is good and continues to build His Church.

Church Plants

The Lord continues to build His Church.  We continue to see the church grow and expand into new areas in Ethiopia.  In many of the rural areas, the church is expanding into unreached areas.  

In the south and east through schools and Child Care Plus sponsorship, the gospel is going forth.  

Schools in Muslim communities have opened the door for the gospel to be spread.  Through good education, parents and children are willing and open to hear the message of their teachers.  In one area with ten schools, serving more than 1400 students, more than 3500 new converts have come as a result of the schools being a light in the community.  

Please continue to pray for these schools to have an influence in bringing the gospel to the next generation and their families.  

Jesus Christ is building His Church.  Praise the Lord!