The parish of St Paul's, Banbury
UP-DATE - SEPTEMBER 2008
Edited by Brenda Smith
We support the BARNABAS FUND working with the SUFFERING CHURCH
REV MICHAEL LUBOWA in UGANDA
It is almost a year since Michael and Janepher returned to Uganda with little George. When they were in the UK St. Paul’s discussed with them the possibility of a small group visiting them to further our bonds of fellowship, to encourage Michael in his ministry and to show our love and support for the Ugandan church. Would you be praying about this; it may take place early next year? And if the Lord so leads, would you be willing to go? In the meanwhile keep this in your prayers, as also the educational needs of Michael and Janepher’s children, the need for serious Biblical teaching (many are poor peasants) in the 14 parishes under his pastoral care. Do see his letter with several pictures on the Word Church Notice Board.
NEIL & PAULA LAWRENCE with James
We have not received news recently. We knew that some issues needed our prayers, including James’ schooling. The Lord knows their situation and we pray his guidance for the family as to their future ministry.
BRIAN & VAL HODGKIN with WYCLIFFE
After an incredibly busy period involving much travel between the UK and the USA, they are now back home and enjoying a much needed holiday. We wait to hear the results of their interview with the Mission leadership regarding the ministry for which they will be responsible in the near future.
SANDY & KIRSTEN RUSSELL, Vi & Kamo,
in NORTH IRAQ with MECO
They are adjusting back after three months in the UK. Pray especially for Vi and Kamo settling into local secondary and nursery schools. His work with the Bible Society is crucial to outreach in the country so pray for vision, energy and attention to detail in translation, publishing and distribution. Sandy and Kirsten’s neighbour is “losing” her son to the West. “How can he even afford to have a wife here?” she asks. “The Kurdish youth are vanishing like smoke!” A Pastor speaks of Christians being threatened, kidnapped or attacked, and of a family having to pay US$30,000 for the return of their young son. Believers are still moving, in some numbers, from the centre to the north of Iraq. Remember Sandy as he trains and disciples Bible Society staff and Kirsten as she has a period of focused Kurdish study.
“SHALOM CENTRE” in Arequipa, Peru
Ruth Green, whose vision it was to set up this centre, writes: “As the International College celebrates 85 years of Christian witness, Shalom is celebrating five! We shall celebrate with a mixture of formal and relaxed – the latter taking the form of food! We are so thankful for the support and prayer we receive. If you belong to one of these categories, may the Lord bless and reward you for your goodness to us.” A special sleep system has been started for the mothers of small children – a generous gift has made it possible for the special beds to be given; home visits will be made to check on their right use. This term will be very busy for the centre. Meanwhile Esme and Edward, who have spent the last few weeks in Arequipa sorting out their affairs, return to the UK in time for Edward to continue his theological studies. They praise the Lord for his provision of a “coaching house” to live in, a very welcoming church, and increased financial support for Edward. Esme will be looking to find her niche and a job, as they both prepare for their future ministry in the Andes.
MIKE REEVES with UCCF
Mike asks prayer for the up-coming Gospel distribution project. He says: “The aim is to put a copy of Mark’s Gospel into the hands of every under-graduate in the country, because it is God’s Word that changes lives. They are now all printed and ready to go.” Please pray that they will be read. Mike would also value prayer for his on-going training of staff. “We need to make sure we are all as clear as we can be on the Gospel, so we can proclaim Jesus in a way people will hear and understand. This is a very important year for the evangelization of a younger generation.” And let’s not forget Bethan and Lucy (who recently passed her 1st birthday) while Mike’s ministry involves his being away from home so often
And finally …….
We ought not to consider mission, whether at home or overseas, just an optional extra; it was Jesus’ last command to his people - to you and me - to go and spread the Good News. So what can you do, and what can we do as a church? Why not ask the Lord to guide in just how to commit yourself to prayer and support of some part of our church outreach.
GO ‘N TELL
This highly valued ministry of ours to local schools is unable to continue this term – partly for lack of people trained and available to participate. That is a very sad fact. Could you be one of those whom God is looking for to join the team. If so, talk to Stevie for further information.
GROW GROUPS
What about your group possibly taking on a commitment to pray for any one – your choice - of our church projects
