WD Mission's News and Reviews

~Barcelona Commentary - March 2012

2012-03-06T11:31:00.000-08:00

Please continue to PRAY for all our missionaries around the world.

Barcelona Commentary

Rev. & Mrs. Nathan A. Harrod

Missionaries to Spain

United Pentecostal Church International

Revival Report...

New Church Plant

Manresa

In the month of February we had our first services in the city of Manresa, a town about 40 miles outside of Barcelona. We had 12 in attendance in our first service and we are excited about what God is going to do in this new city. We're thankful to have the Nutt Family, Aimers with us in Spain that are helping to establish this new work.

A small view of a Sunday service in Barcelona

Sunday Worship 3/4/12

Visit from the Matthew Tuttle Family

The Matthew Tuttle family from The Netherlands came to Barcelona to minister in our church this past month. The church was tremendously blessed by them and there were 3 that received the baptism of the Holy Ghost that Sunday.

Rev. Matthew Tuttle

Thank You!

Thank you for all your prayers and support.

Together we are claiming Spain

in Jesus' name!

God Bless,

Nathan, Tanya, Alaina and Lincoln Harrod

Harrod Family

Quick Links:

Enroll as PIM
Global Missions
Interested in AIM

Los Pentecostales

In August of 2012 we will be coming to the states for our scheduled deputation. If you are interested in having our family for a service please contact your Global Missions District Director. With your help we will be able to return to the field as quickly as possible. You can click on the link to see what districts we will be in.

Deputation Schedules

~David F. Gray Memorial Bible School / Vanuatu, South Pacific

2012-03-05T17:31:00.000-08:00

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PROJECT: David F. Gray Memorial Bible School

The desire of Missionary Lee Sherry in Vanuatu, South Pacific is to see the completion of this Bible School. You will be seeing and hearing a lot of information concerning this project in the coming months. Please be much in prayer about what you could do to help...there is a need of approximately $200,000 dollars to finish this building.

Below are some photos of the structure as it now stands:

The Sherry family is now home on deputation for approximately one year...they would like to complete this Bible School during their next term in office. It will be completed - let's help them do it soon after their return to the island.

~Mexigram - March 2012 / REVIVAL in Mexico

2012-03-04T16:36:00.000-08:00

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From the email desk of Missionary T.Wynn Drost - General Superintendent UPC of Mexico

• 9,550 baptized in 2011; and,

• 9731 received the Holy Spirit in 2011.

• Our baptized solid membership grew by 20.6% in 2011

• Our Constituency today is of 109,049 in all of Mexico

• We have 863 Licensed Ministers and Pastors in the UPCM

• We have 981 Churches and Missions in the UPCM

We are VERY excited with the growth the God continues to give the United Pentecostal Church of Mexico. The statistics that you see above are the rresult of what was compiled in all 28 Districts that we have in this country.

ANNUAL MINISTERS' CONFERENCE.

We just finished driving to all of those Districts that we have in Mexico, a total of 17,100 kilometers (or, 10,625 miles) during the months of January and February - in a total of 44 days. In each District we have their yearly District Assembly with the financial reports and elections for the different District offices. We rejoice over the results of what God is doing and has done during this past year of 2011.

Mexico is truly a revival field! That we know of, there is no other country in the world today reporting (consistently) that many being baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit each year. God has given us a great group of dedicated Pastors and leaders, who love God and are working very hard for the Lord. We have not reached a plateau, but are only seeing the beginnings of MUCH MORE!

In each District, not only were we thrilled with the statistical reports, but also many stories of healings, miracles, etc. Being that Mexico is going through a time of violence and many deaths, due to the ongoing drug-war that is being waged in this country, there are also tremendous testimonies of protection, while at the same time, of wonderful conversions from those dregs of sin. Jesus is still in the saving and life-transforming business!

Pictured above are students in a Bible School in Campeche where Brother Mario Alfaro (to my right in the pictures) is the District Supervisor. I was able to teach for three hours while there, during the first days in February 2012.

We are experiencing revival! To God Be The Glory!

We cherish and appreciate your prayers for continued revival in this great country!

Rev. T.W.Drost - General Superintendent UPC of Mexico
www.ipumex.net (011-521) 55-5438 1013 cell phone

~Adopt a Window or Door -W. H. Dean Bible School/Managua, Nicaragua

2012-02-27T09:08:00.001-08:00

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LIVE from Nicaragua...

Please consider adopting a WINDOW or DOOR at only $120.00 a piece...you may be able to purchase only one or possibly you could donate five (5), (10) or more. Please contact Bro. Stephen Nix on his FB page at 'Stephen Nix'or contact Global Missions at UPCI in Hazelwood, MO. This would a great blessing to the Nicaraguan church and Bro. Nix to help in the completion of this building. They need to be using this beautiful school to teach, train, instruct and mentor students, leaders and pastors.

Below is a picture of a completed window:

God bless,

Jerry E. Powell
Western District GMD Promotion Director

~Project for the country of Portugal - Oscar Rodriques family

2012-02-26T21:36:00.001-08:00

Please consider supporting one of the above named projects for the country of Portugal

~W. H. Dean Bible School/Administration Bldg. - More Photos

2012-02-26T21:20:00.001-08:00

Louisiana Men On A Mission

Bro. Alan Hennigan keeping up with the tile layers

Bro. C. W. Dowden suited up and ready to spray paint

Missionary Nix checking the paint job

The window my wife and I purchased

Our group leader...Bro. Kent Rhoads from Vivian, LA

The entrance way is getting a special design

Tile is complete in kitchen and dinning room area

Tile in Men's bathroom and shower

Bro. Alan Hennigan mixing 'mud' for the tile layers

'Work smarter, not harder' Bro. Vining

The work day is over and we will soon be in our hotel

Stay tuned...more photos to come!

~W. H. Dean Bible School/Administration Bldg. - Additional Photos

2012-02-26T07:00:00.001-08:00

After devotion and prayer Bro. Alan Goss getting us lined out for the day

Bro. C. W. Dowden getting the walls ready for texture

Tile floor nearly completed in this room

Lunch and rest - Tip Top chicken every day

Bro. Milton Vining texturing the walls

Missionary Stephen Nix conducting business while supervising

Bro. Kevin Reeves contemplating the next move

It's looking good brethren...keep up the good work

Bro. Lane Laborde and Bro. David Gunther figuring it all out before proceeding

Making good progress on the laying of tile in all of the bottom floor

Serious thinking and discussion by Bro. Alan Goss and Bro. Kent Rhoads

Back to the hotel for a well deserved meal and good night's sleep

More photos of the progress to come soon...stay tuned!

~Work Continues on the W. H. Dean Bible School/Managua, Nicaragua

2012-02-25T07:12:00.001-08:00

The above photos are from Day One...more photos to come in other posts. Please continue to PRAY that the financial need will be met so this beautiful building can be completed.

~Barcelona Commentary - January/February 2012

2012-02-16T14:20:00.000-08:00

Please continue to PRAY for ALL missionaries around the world.

Barcelona Commentary

Rev. & Mrs. Nathan A. Harrod

Missionaries to Spain

United Pentecostal Church International

Revival Report...

Bible Schools In Spain

Bible school training is an important part of the growth in Spain. We have Bible schools both in Madrid and in Barcelona. Recentley Missionary Gary Sones who is based

in Madrid was able to aquire new facilites to accomadate the second full-time Bible school in all of Europe! In the first semester we had 83

Bible School In Madrid

students at these new Bible School facilities. This past semester we had a total of 140 students between our Madrid and Barcelona Schools.

Though they are now in the new Bible School in Madrid there is still construction to be done in order to complete the Bible School. If you are interested in investing in the future leaders of Spain you can send donations to the Global Missions Department:Project #103.FA.033215.22.2204._.280

Students In Class

Starting the year off right

We were glad to have Evangelist Brian Norman with us to close out the year. During these services we had many

people testify of physical healings and 13 that received

Altar Service

the baptism of the Holy Ghost. We have now had 19 receive the Holy Ghost in this New Year. God is doing great things!

New AIMers

David Nutt Family

We are happy to have a new Associates In Missions family working with us here in Barcelona. The David Nutt family have been a blessing since their arrival in October. They have been helping in all areas of the church and a great help in teaching home Bible studies. We are always looking for dedicated people that desire to come on AIM and be a part of the work that God is raising up in this nation.

Plans to start another church

Manresa

In order to reach the masses of people that live in our part of the country we MUST start new churches. With the help of the Lord we have started two new churches this term and our goal is to start another church this year before we begin our next deputation. This year we have begun having house meetings and bible studies in a new city outside of Barcelona. We ask that you would pray for the city of Manresa that God would lead us in establishing a new church in this city. Recently we have had as high as 20 people attend this house meeting in this city with no church.

Thank You!

Thank you for all your prayers and support. Together we are claiming Spain

in Jesus' name!

God Bless,

Nathan, Tanya, Alaina and Lincoln Harrod

Harrod Family

Quick Links:

Enroll as PIM
Foreign Missions
Interested in AIM

Los Pentecostales

~January 2012 Mexigram - Revival in Mexico!

2012-02-15T10:12:00.000-08:00

From the email desk of Missionary T.Wynn Drost - General Superintendent UPC of Mexico

THE MEGA-CITY WITH THE MOST UPCI, JESUS' NAME, PENTECOSTALS IN THE WORLD! NOW, OVER 7,000 BAPTIZED BELIEVERS! *

MEXICO CITY ANNUAL MINISTERS' CONFERENCE. We have 28 Districts in the UPC of Mexico, and during the months of January and February of each year we have all of Annual Ministers' Conferences in each District throughout the country. It means a lot of traveling for us, since we go to all of them (as the General Superintendent of the UPC of Mexico) and chair in each District Ministers' Assembly. But, those more than 8,900 miles aren't as tiresome when it means seeing and being part of the revival blessing that is taking place in this country. During each District Assembly, aside from the election of each Districts' officers (including each District Supervisor or Superintendent) we also collect and verify the statistics for each District.

THE CENTRAL DISTRICT is the largest (statistically, not geographically) of all the Districts, and we had our Annual Central District Conference on Saturday, January 7, 2012. The Central District encompasses Mexico City, which has a population of over 22 million people. It is no longer the largest city in the world, but is now in third place.

Above is a picture of the Central District Pastors and their wives, in one of the services on the 7th of January. Aside from this annual Conference, we have monthly Ministers' meetings, each first Monday night of the month. It is always a tremendously exciting time where the Pastors report baptized, filled with the Holy Spirit during the former month, besides any new Churches, missions or miracles!

Pictured above is a banquet type meal that the Ladies of the Central District provided and set up, with 296 present - which included Pastors, their wife and children.

STATISTICS: Each year, in every District, we collect a Census, which is included in the each District's Annual Report to their District Assembly. In the Central District we now have:

104 Pastors in this mega-city, with close to 100 Churches and Missions.

We now have over 7,000 solid faithful baptized believers.

Pictured above is our CENTRAL DISTRICT BOARD. Besides being the General Superintendent of the UPC of Mexico, I am also the Central District Supervisor - elected by the Pastors in this District to that position. I also pastor in this city. To my right (in the middle) is Brother Alberto Gutierrez, the Central District Secretary. He pastors two Churches with over 500 baptized believers between the two. To my left is Brother Gustavo Aldana, the Central District Treasurer, also pastoring (he is also a top executive of Colgate-Palmolive, here in Mexico). The rest are all Sectional Presbyters, voted on and elected by the Central District Pastors.

As a note of interest, on the far left front row (beige suit) is Brother Filogonio Zapata (Presbyter) who pastors two different churches in the city. He is the grandson of a very famous General during the 1910 Revolution here in Mexico, whose name was Emiliano Zapata.

*MEGA-CITIES. A mega-city is one that has a population of over 10 million people. In a recent United Nations report, the five largest mega-cities in the world are: Tokyo, Sao Paulo, Mexico City, Bombay, Dhaka, and Delhi. Mexico City (by far!) is the one with the most UPCI, Jesus' Name, Pentecostals. We are very thankful to the Lord for that. Although, the first United Pentecostal Church in this city was started in 1991 - not that long ago. We are experiencing revival! To God Be The Glory!

We cherish and appreciate your prayers for continued revival in this mega-city!

Rev. T.W.Drost - General Superintendent UPC of Mexicowww.ipumex.net (011-521) 55-5438 1013 cell phone

~CSI Thanks YOU for your Generous Support

2012-01-31T16:14:00.000-08:00

Thank You For A Wonderful 2011

It was once said, "Nobody can do everything, but every-
one can do something." Compassion Services Inter-
national together with your support was able to do some
great things in 2011. We want to thank you for your
sacrifice to help the hurting around the world. So many
people have given of their time, talents and finances
enabling humanitarian aid to be sent around the globe.
In 2011 your gifts have reached the people of Japan and
Myanmar and continued to help the people of Haiti as
they continue their rebuilding efforts. Most recently aid
was sent to earthquake victims in Turkey and to flood
victims in the Philippines. 2011 was a year when disaster
struck close to home as tornadoes ripped through
Alabama and Joplin, MO. Because so many of you gave,
CSI was able to send financial aid and supplies to many of
the families directly affected by these tragic events.

CSI continues because of your faithful support. The
words thank you cannot begin to convey how much CSI
appreciates every person who contributes their time,
talents, resources and finances to ensure that those in
greatest need receive the aid they so desperately need.

2012 promises to be an exciting time for CSI and we are
glad that you have partnered with us to reach out to a
world in need. As we continue to focus on helping the
hurting around the globe let us remember the words of
Winston Churchill, "We make a living by what we get, but
we make a life by what we give."

Rebuilding in Haiti

Food Distribution in Japan

Tornado Destruction in Alabama

Thank you again for your sacrificial giving and for helping us

to fulfill Matthew 25:40 and James 1:27.

With Great Appreciation

Compassion Services International
3333-1 Rue Royale
St. Charles, MO 63301
636-724-0328

~The Mark Alphin Family - Finland

2012-01-04T21:29:00.000-08:00

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Finland's Intercessor Team Prayer Focus The Mark Alphin Family-UPCI Missionaries, FINLAND January 2012

Thank you for supporting us in either prayer, finance, or both. You are receiving this email in response to your commitment to seeing an apostolic voice rise in Finland.

IT'S A NEW SEASON!

The dawning of a new year nearly always brings a mindset of

change. No matter what one is considering, whether it be weight,

relationships, job, relocation, etc., it always involves changing

something about 'life.' Looking back over2011, we can see where

our family experienced a whole lot of change! And, from where

we stand, it has all been good. God has been faithful. Our team

connection has been strong! And, we have been involved in

praying for specific FIT requests in which God has moved

in a miraculous way, astounding multiple doctors and proving

that time and space does not matter to the Master Physician!

2012 and Finland - here's what we've planned so far (just in

a nutshell, mind you, in order to save time and space):

"Light and Might"

In 2012, we are purposing to pray "Light and Might" into the

spiritual atmosphere of Finland, asking God to illuminate

the spiritual darkness with His Holy light while dispatching

angels to fight - with might, strength, and anointing - in

order to take territory from the evil one."Ye are the light of the

world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men

light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick;

and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light

so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and

glorify your Father which is in heaven."(Matthew 5:14-16, KJV)

Our prayer is that His light, within us, would shine brightly before

the Finns!

30 days of Prayer and Fasting

The Europe/Middle East Region is in the midst of a 30-day period

of prayer and fasting for the Europe/Middle East. If you are interest

-ed in joining us, we welcome you to do so! Sis. Jerolyn Kelley, the

EME Prayer Commission Coordinator, had some great fasting ideas:

no sugar, tea/coffee, eating one meal a day, fasting until a certain

time each day, no meat, chocolate, bread, internet, newspaper,

and read nothing but the Bible. There is certainly more than one

way to deny ourselves, and with the right motive, our efforts serve

to draw us closer to Him.

Read It Through!

Our family is planning to read the Bible through at least once this

year. Won't you join us? There are a number of programs available

to assist you in making it an easy task, not to mention it has lasting,

spiritual benefits! Bread Chart (Bible Reading Enriches Any Day)

Home Bible Studies

Our goal is to reach out to others on a personal level, share our

knowledge of Jesus, and help others develop a relationship with

God that is built on Truth found in the Word of God. All of us will

be involved in teaching Bible Studies!

Looking ahead

In August, the EME Prayer Commission will bring a small team of

intercessors to Helsinki, Finland, in order to conduct prayer walks

in various areas around the city. We are thrilled that our country

was chosen for such a venture, and ask that you help us prepare the

spiritual atmosphere for a great awakening in the hearts and minds

of men. We will be sharing more about this as the date draws closer.

EME Prayer Commission website

Thank you for being a part of Finland's Intercessor Team.

We could not possibly do 'what we do' without you!

Glenda Alphin

UPCI Missionary, Finland

EME Prayer Commission Member

PRAYER NEEDS

Language Study

Our family begins another round of classes at the University of

Helsinki in January! Mark, Glenda, and Candace are going for round

2 - Suomi 2, to be exact - and Miranda will be studying Suomi 1.

Pray for: clarity of thought, illumination of understand-

ing, bind and remove confusion, loose a covering of peace

Home Bible Studies and Book of Acts Home Group

Bible Studies: We will soon be starting an additional Bible study.

We will be making a number of new acquaintances in language

class and want to follow God's direction in making new contacts.

Home Group: We have two who call our group home when they

are able to attend.

Pray for: direction, wisdom, open hearts and minds, bind

deception and release revelation, loose spirit of Truth

Associates in Missions

We are in conversations with several individuals regarding

potential ministry within Finland. Pray for: wisdom and

direction, both for us and each person considering our

field of labor

Ongoing Requests

- A hunger to arise within the Finnish people for an urgency to

seek God; spiritual awakening

- Revelation about the Oneness message

- A blood covering over the people of the Name within the country

- Open doors for the Word of God to have free course

- For those we meet to seek our company and want to learn

about Jesus

- Associate in Missions help; fellow laborers

Remember, we pray for you, too. If you have a need, don't
hesitate to email it to us!

VISIT OUR UPDATED WEB SITE!

We appreciate you!

Mark, Glenda, Miranda, and Candace

Join Our Mailing List

~Suriname News Flash - December 2011

2012-01-04T19:57:00.000-08:00

Suriname News Flash

December 2011

Seasons Greetings!
We trust you and your family had an enjoyable holiday season, and that you will be blessed during 2012.

Trip to Aruba

In December we visited Aruba, where we met with some contacts. Aruba currently has no United Pentecostal churches, and is considered a target nation. Please pray that a church can be established there.

Special Prayer Request
The church in Paramaribo met in a hotel conference room for several years, but had to move in November due to remodeling. The congregation currently rents an auditorium on an hourly basis. While church buildings are not everything, we feel a building will be a blessing for the stability and future growth of the work. Please pray that the Lord will provide a suitable location.

Thank you for praying for our family and for the church in Suriname.

The Rhoads Family
Missionaries to Suriname

Visit our web page at www.RhoadsMission.com.

Follow us on Twitter at user name PhillipRhoads.

~Happy New Year - 2012

2012-01-01T00:23:00.000-08:00

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~It's New Year's Eve - Celebrate

2011-12-31T02:44:00.000-08:00

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We are at the end of the road in 2011 with only a few hours left before beginning the trek into a New Year...

...thanking God for all He has done in 2011.

Expecting GREATER things from God in 2012!

Ephesians 3:19-21

19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

The BEST is yet to come...

~Merry Christmas from the WD FMD

2011-12-24T23:19:00.000-08:00

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"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a savior, which is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:11

Merry Christmas!

WD Foreign Missions Board:
Michael Hanks
John Thomas
Jerry Powell
Don Demyan
Clayton Brown
Morgan Underwood

~Merry Christmas from the David Bernard Family

2011-12-24T07:26:00.001-08:00

~Merry Christmas from the Suppan family - Austria

2011-12-23T16:56:00.000-08:00

Dear friends and family,

We would like to extend our warmest
Christmas Greetings to you and your loved
ones, and hope you will be able to spend
many enjoyable hours with those close to
you!

The Suppan Family,
Austria

Bernhard & Shelley, Joshua & Lela, Savannah

The Christmas Story as told by Luke

In those days it occurred that a decree went

out from Caesar Augustus that the whole

Roman empire should be registered. This was

the first enrollment, and it was made when

Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all the

people were going to be registered, each to

his own city or town. And Joseph also went up

from Galilee from the town of Nazareth to

Judea, to the town of David, which is called

Bethlehem, because he was of the house and

family of David, To be enrolled with Mary, his

espoused (married) wife, who was about to

become a mother. And while they were there,

the time came for her delivery, And she gave

birth to her Son, her Firstborn; and she

wrapped Him in swaddling clothes and laid

Him in a manger, because there was no room

or place for them in the inn.

And in that vicinity there were shepherds

living [out under the open sky] in the field,

watching [in shifts] over their flock by night.

And behold, an angel of the Lord stood by

them, and the glory of the Lord flashed and

shone all about them, and they were terribly

frightened. But the angel said to them, Do not

be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of

a great joy which will come to all the people.

For to you is born this day in the town of David

a Savior, Who is Christ (the Messiah) the Lord!

And this will be a sign for you [by which you

will recognize Him]: you will find [after search-

ing] a Baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and

lying in a manger. Then suddenly there appear-

ed with the angel an army of the troops of

heaven (a heavenly knighthood), praising God

and saying, Glory to God in the highest

[heaven], and on earth peace among men with

whom He is well pleased [men of goodwill, of

His favor]. When the angels went away from

them into heaven, the shepherds said one to

another, Let us go over to Bethlehem and see

this thing (saying) that has come to pass,

which the Lord has made known to us. So they

went with haste and [by searching] found Mary

and Joseph, and the Baby lying in a manger.

And when they saw it, they made known what

had been told them concerning this Child, And

all who heard it were astounded and marveled

at what the shepherds told them. But Mary was

keeping within herself all these things (say-

ings), weighing and pondering them in her

heart. And the shepherds returned, glorify-

ing and praising God for all the things they

had heard and seen, just as it had been told

them.

Luke 2:1-20 (Amplified Bible)

~URGENT Appeal for the Philippines - Please HELP!

2011-12-22T14:43:00.000-08:00

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← Typhoon Devastates The Southern Philippines!!

DECEMBER 22, 2011 · 10:04 PM

Urgent Appeal for The Philippines

Please continue to pray for the people in the Philippines. Flooding caused by the recent Typhoon has caused massive destruction. Flood waters rushing through towns seem to wash away everything in its path. Thousands are without food, water and shelter. Bodies line the streets waiting to be identified. The stench of death is all around. Those who survived are now cold, exhausted and terrified. The next few days will be critical. In the aftermath of such a crisis, hunger and disease caused by stagnant water and tainted supplies will be two main areas of concern. In a country where approximately 30% of the population live below the poverty level the loss of homes, food and income will cause further devastation to these families.

You can help those in need by visiting www.compassionservices.org and donating to our General Fund! Your donations will be sent to help those in the greatest need. To those in need no gift is too small. You can also mail your donations to our office: 3333-1 Rue Royale, St. Charles, MO 63301. Thank you for your prayers and support. We will continue to post updates as they become available.

~CSI - An URGENT Appeal for HELP!

2011-12-21T17:54:00.000-08:00

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Compassion Services International

URGENT APPEAL

We are appealing to anyone that can donate to help those affected by Typhoon Washi!

Typhoon Washi has devastated the Southern Philippines. The violent storm slammed ashore on Mindanao island this past weekend while its residents slept. The storm sent torrents of water and mud through the villages. The hardest hit areas were Iligan and Cagayan de Oro City. Flood waters washed away entire houses while the families were still inside. One such area located in Iligran that is between two rivers had 70% of its homes washed away. Reports have come in that more than 1000 people have perished. Hundreds of people drowned in flash flooding while others perished in sudden landslides, which reportedly engulfed entire villages.This storm has affected more than 300,000 people. Rescue efforts are still underway to search for the hundreds that are still missing.

We have received word from those on the ground that the people affected are in need of food, water and clothing. You can help by making a donation so that financial help can be sent to supply these most basic necessities. Financial donations are the quickest way to get help to the area. At this time of year while we celebrate the greatest gift we have been given please consider giving to help those who have lost so much. Please keep the people of the Philippines in your prayers. The rebuilding process will be a long road.

To make a donation please visit our homepage at www.compassionservices.org. Donations can also be sent directly to our office: 3333-1 Rue Royale, St. Charles, MO 63301.

Click the picture below to donate now

Compassion Services International
A non-profit organization to help the hurting around the globe

~Urgent Need in the Country of Turkey

2011-12-20T23:33:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas From Compassion Services International
DECEMBER 20, 2011 · 9:57 PM
URGENT NEED IN TURKEY

Recent earthquakes in Turkey have caused severe devastation. More than 2,260 buildings in Van and the vicinity were damaged or destroyed. There have been hundreds of confirmed deaths and thousands of injuries. Tens of thousands appear to be homeless as many families have had to evacuate their current homes to seek safety. We are urging everyone who can, to donate to Compassion Services International’s General Fund so that we can send financial support to Turkey. We have been notified by those on the ground of several families that have lost everything. These families have had to relocate and are now in the process of rebuilding their lives by finding a permanent residence and new jobs. Together, we can help them in the interim by providing funds for transportation and temporary housing. Thank you in advance for helping those in need and for helping to fulfill Matthew 25:40 and James 1:27. May God’s blessings be upon you this Christmas season as you give. You can donate now to our General Fund by visiting our homepage, www.compassionservices.org. You can also mail your donation to our office: 3333-1 Rue Royale, St. Charles, MO 63301.

~'Washi all Away' by Missionary Kelley Dibble

2011-12-20T11:21:00.000-08:00

Washi all Away

'Twas the weekend before Christmas
And all through the town
No one believed the Weather Man's frown

"The typhoon will come
It is on its way"
But no one believed
One word he did say

You've likely read the report(s) by now. I haven't yet. We were on Guam Island when like a thief in the night tropical storm Washi struck the island of Mindanao (not Luzon where we reside).

"Did you hear about the typhoon that struck Cagayan de Oro?"

Mindanao? I thought. On Mindanao? I thought they never get typhoons or tropical storms. But it was gravely true.

For three days they were warned. It won't affect us down here, they yawned, slapping the snooze button as they turned over on their mats. No one prepared, no one believed, no had one listened.

In a recent report by our district presbyter of Northern Mindanao is line after line of horrifying news. Most are five words divided by a comma. To you and I "house destroyed, all belongings damaged" are ink on paper, images on a screen. Just another report.

Iligan City (pronounced ill ee GONE)
Ramirez family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
Caputol family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
Gatin family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
Bangcon Family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
Maglasang family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
Siarot family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
Cadampog family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
Apalla family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
L. Apalla family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
Tutor family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
G. Tutor family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
A. Tutor family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
Saa family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
Actub family: belongings/clothes damaged
Canoy family: some belongings damaged
Abelardo family: belongings damaged
Englatiera family: clothes soaked with mud
Cobillo family: clothes/belongings soaked with mud

We don't see the faces,
nor feel the mud,
can't smell the mold
or hear the heartbreak.

The report concludes with:

Cagayan de Oro City (pronounced cah guy ON day OH row)
Rullida family: house destroyed, all belongings damaged
Quidet family: clothes/belongings soaked with mud

The church and parsonage were flooded and some belongings are damaged. We presently have no electricity.

The church has donated P7,000 for food assistance to those affected. Some of the brethren donated rice and canned goods.

If anyone is interested in helping, it is desperately needed and greatly appreciated. . . .

Silent night, holy night
All is calm, all is . . .

bright?

We hope to either go or send funds to help. That's the least we can do! Thank you for your prayers for these precious people.

- from the Blog http://kelleyhighway.blogspot.com/ written by Sis. Kelley Dibble, missionary to the Philippines and South Pacific.
Used with permission of the author.

*Note! Picture added by editor of this blog.

~More Information on Tropical Cyclone Washi/Philippines

2011-12-19T11:25:00.000-08:00

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Washi – known in the Philippines as Sendong – brought flooding and mudslides that resulted in over 650 deaths and 800 still missing.

Tropical Storm Washi was the 27th tropical system to develop in the western Pacific typhoon season. It ultimately brought extreme flooding and mudslides that resulted in over 650 deaths with nearly 800 people still missing across the southern Philippines.

Washi formed on December 13, 2011 as tropical depression 27W. Washi formed in the north Pacific ocean and strengthened into a strong tropical storm with maximum sustained winds around 65 miles per hour. Washi intensified prior to making landfall in the Philippines on December 15, 2011. Heavy rain increased in the system, and Washi brought torrential rains and mudslides to the Philippines.

Tropical Storm Washi actually has two names. Storms that develop in each basin, such as the western Pacific and the Atlantic, are given names after reaching a minimum strength of 39 mph or higher. Each basin has a six year list that is used to name the storms. However, some countries choose to name the storms themselves. The Philippines actually named this storm Sendong. It is important to note that the media will reference Sendong as “Washi”, which is the official name of the storm in the western Pacific. For less confusion, we will call this storm “Washi” for the remainder of this post.

Washi’s convection increased, which meant thunderstorms and heavier rain bands were increasing in the system. An increase in convection on satellite from a tropical cyclone typically shows an intensifying storm. The storm moved over the mountainous regions of the Philippines on Mindanao Island, producing nonstop rain for at least 12 hours across the region. The heavy rains ran down the mountain side causing trees to become uprooted and cars being overturned in many areas. The Red Cross in the Philippines report that at least 346 died in Cagayan de Oro and 206 in Iligan. The death toll has already reached over 650 deaths, and that number is projected to increase as many isolated villages affected by Washi have not been assisted due to the overwhelmed disaster relief personnel in other regions of the country. There could be some families completely washed out and perished.

- for more very interesting information on development of this storm click on 'Read More' below.

NASA’s Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite produced the image above late on December 15, 2011. In this image, it shows the tallest thunderstorms in the storm that reached around 15 kilometers or approximately 9.3 miles. The TRMM estimated only heavy rainfall located in the southwest quadrant of the storm early on December 15. By that evening, the storm had intensified and was showing rainfall estimates of at least two inches (50 mm) per hour in the east, north, and western quadrants. Some areas across the region, including Mindanao, saw rainfall totals you would typically see in a month in just one day. Everyone pays attention to the winds of a tropical system, but the biggest threat from any tropical cyclone is heavy rain, flooding, and storm surge.

The areas hit hardest in the Philippines had never seen such widespread damage or heavy rain in their lifetime. Thousands of people had to climb up on the roof’s of their house as flood waters rose nearly three feet in one hour. People were swept out to sea while others were buried alive in mudslides due to the higher elevation in the area. The mayor of Iligan, Lawrence Cruz, said, “It’s the worst flood in the history of our city. It happened so fast, at a time when people were asleep.” The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) told residents that Washi was expected to make “landfall over Surigao del Sur early Friday afternoon and by Saturday afternoon, at 220 km East Northeast of Puerto Princesa City. By Sunday afternoon, it will be at 260 km West Northwest of Puerto Princesa City.” The last storm to compare to Washi was when tropical storm Ketsana pushed into the region back in 2009. In 2009, Ketsana killed 747 people and resulted in over a billion dollars of damage, making it the worst tropical cyclone in the western Pacific for 2009.

Bottom line: Tropical Storm Washi, commonly known as Sendong in the Philippines, has killed over 650 people and the death toll is expected to climb as nearly 800 people are still missing. Washi pushed into the Philippines late Friday on December 16, 2011 and brought up to nearly eight inches of rain. Flooding caused mudslides, overturned cars, and left thousands homeless. As of now, over 20,000 soldiers are currently performing a search and rescue to find the survivors after the devastating floods pushed into the area. The hardest hit areas include major ports of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan, on the north coast of the island of Mindanao. All prayers go out to the victims from tropical storm Washi.

- above information from EarthSky.org

~Photos of Devastation in Southern Philippines

2011-12-19T00:09:00.000-08:00

A picture is worth a thousand words...

Please keep the Southern Philippine Islands in your prayers.

~Tropical Storm Ravages Southern Philippines

2011-12-18T18:29:00.000-08:00

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Residents rescued following flash floods

MANILA, Philippines – As a storm that killed more than 650 in the southern Philippines raged outside the store where she works, Amor Limbago worriedly called home to check on her parents, but their cellphones just kept ringing and later went dead.

Limbago, 21, rushed home as soon as the flash floods receded and confirmed her worst fear: Her parents and seven other relatives were gone, swept away from their hut by the river. They had eagerly planned a small Christmas dinner in that hut just days earlier.

"I returned and saw that our house was completely gone," a weeping Limbago told The Associated Press from Cagayan de Oro city. "There was nothing but mud all over and knee-deep floodwaters."

Tropical Storm Washi blew away Sunday after devastating a wide swath of the mountainous region on Mindanao island, which is unaccustomed to major storms.

Most of the victims were asleep Friday night when flash floods cascaded down mountain slopes with logs and uprooted trees, swelling rivers and killing at least 652 people. The late-season tropical storm turned the worst-hit coastal cities of Cagayan de Oro and nearby Iligan into muddy wastelands filled with overturned cars and broken trees.

Most of the dead were children and women, Philippine Red Cross Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang said. At least 808 others were still missing, mostly in the two cities, she said.

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and top military officials flew to Cagayan de Oro and Iligan to help oversee search-and-rescue efforts and deal with thousands of displaced villagers. Among the items urgently needed are coffins and body bags, said Benito Ramos, who heads the government's disaster-response agency.

"It's overwhelming. We didn't expect these many dead," said Ramos, adding that authorities were continuing to find bodies floating at sea.

Although the disaster-prone Philippines is lashed by about 20 typhoons and storms annually, the devastation shocked many, coming close to Christmas -- the predominantly Roman Catholic nation's most-awaited time for family reunions. Army officials in the south said they canceled Christmas parties and would donate the food to homeless survivors.

Limbago said she and her mother, Jean, 50, and father Amancio, 63, planned to have a simple Christmas dinner of spaghetti. Those plans had evaporated Sunday as she and surviving relatives checked crowded morgues, hospitals and evacuation centers for any sign of her missing parents.

Others lost homes and belongings but were happy to have survived.

Edmund Rubio, a 44-year-old engineer, said he, his wife and two children scrambled to the second floor of their house in Iligan city as floodwaters engulfed the first floor, destroying his TV set and other appliances and washing away his car and motorcycle.

Amid the panic, he heard a loud pounding on his door as neighbors living in nearby one-story houses pleaded with him to allow them up to his second floor. He said he brought 30 neighbors to the safety of his house, which later shook when a huge floating log slammed into it.

"It's the most important thing, that all of us will still be together this Christmas," Rubio told the AP.

About a block away from Rubio's house, rescuers used a backhoe and shovels to search for 19 people in the muddy ruins of a two-story house that collapsed when it was hit by a massive log. They dug out 11 bodies from the site Saturday, witnesses said.

Army officers reported unidentified bodies piled up in morgues in Cagayan de Oro, where electricity was restored in some areas, although the city of more than 500,000 people remained without tap water.

At least 346 died in Cagayan de Oro and 206 in Iligan, the Red Cross said. The death toll was expected to rise because many isolated villages still had not been reached by overwhelmed disaster-response personnel.

"Our fear is there may have been whole families that perished so there's nobody to report what happened," Pang said.

Both Iligan, a bustling industrial center about 485 miles southeast of Manila, and Cagayan de Oro were filled with scenes of destruction and desperation.

A lone worker gingerly embalmed scores of bodies laid side by side in an Iligan city funeral parlor. Outside the embalming room, seven white coffins were placed in a corridor, surrounded by weeping relatives.

"Many mothers, fathers were walking from one funeral parlor to another, looking for their children," said army Maj. Eugenio Osias, who led a rescue effort in Cagayan de Oro.

Ramos attributed the high casualties "partly to the complacency of people because they are not in the usual path of storms" despite warnings by officials that one was approaching.

In just 12 hours, Washi dumped more than a month of average rain on Mindanao.

Thousands of soldiers and hundreds of local police, reservists, coast guard officers and civilian volunteers were mobilized for rescue efforts, but were hampered by flooded-out roads and lack of electricity. Rescuers in boats rushed offshore to save people swept out to sea.

- from Foxnew.com

~Merry Christmas from the Oscar Rodriques family

2011-12-17T23:58:00.000-08:00

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~Merry Christmas from Gary/Kristi Landaw - Puerto Rico

2011-12-15T10:43:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to you and yours.

This past year we have been blessed to be able to not only pastor a

church in Puerto Rico but also have been working to see new areas

hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. We have been planting the word of

God and watering with prayer and believing God for a wonderful

Harvest soon. As recent as last night we had an outdoor service in

Santurce where we had several new visitors. It is so exciting working

for Jesus!

Trinidad and Tobago is reaching out into new areas also as the lead-

ers and saints are reaching out to the areas of Scarborough Tobago

and Arima, Trinidad. This year we have seen a good harvest of souls

and anticipate an even greater harvest in 2012. Though we do not

live in Trinidad we have been there quite frequently preaching, teaching

and giving direction to the church.

It has been a wonderful year to work in the Kingdom of God. We

have seen souls saved, people healed, and delivered. It is such a

blessing to be able to be ambassadors of Jesus Christ.

God has also blessed us to be able to see all of our children during

the year. Amy is working in Spain as an English teacher and also

is an AIM worker in Madrid. Joseph and Cassandra were on a very

short deputation and return to Trinidad for a few months and then

in July 2012 pick up their deputation travels again. Melisa and

Jordan are involved in the church they attend in Martinsville. This

year we will all be able to spend Christmas together and for that

we are very thankful.

Thank you for your prayers and support. We do hope you
continue to fervently pray for us. We really need to see a break-
through in these new areas of labor. In Jesus name strongholds
will be broken.

God bless you.

Gary and Kristi Landaw
Missionaries with UPCI

Ways to communicate with us:

Phone 787.993.1540 Facebook:GaryKristiLandaw Twitter:GaryLandaw

email:galandaw@aol.com

~We're Back - Michael and Christine McKinnies/AIMers to Latvia

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

OLD RIGA on the DAUGAVA RIVER

New Friendship

Alexandra is looking forward to building a frienship with Olja. A sweet young lady she met through AIMer, Rachel Zehm.

Riga Worship Team

Alexandra has joined the Worship Team for Hall Church. Here she is singing the song "Here I Am To Worship" in Latvian. The woman on the keyboard is Vineta, a Latvian national and member of the Church in Riga.

Red Cross Ministry

Missionary Mark Shutes and interpreter are ministering to a group of men at the local Red Cross.

A Blessing!

Konstance, a faithful member of the Church in Riga, has been a great blessing as an interpreter to Missionary Mark Shutes and myself for the Red Cross Ministry. She is a wonderful young lady. We enjoy seeing how God is using her and working in her life.

Follow Us!

Partners in Missions

For monthly pledges and one -time offerings call Pat Morgan at World Evangelism Center with our Global Missions Division #13297.

314-837-7300

For one-time offerings you may also click one of the Paypal links below.

10 25 50 100 250 500

Mail to

Michael McKinnies

c/o Evelyn Curry

32817 56th Ave.

Paw Paw, MI 49079

We're Back!

We have finally arrived back in

Riga, Latvia! We would like to

offer a great big THANK YOU

to all of our Partners in Missions,

to those that have been with us

since the beginning of this journey

and to those who have recently

come aboard. We would not be

here without your prayers and

financial support. We will forever

be grateful for you help in making

an impact in the nation of Latvia

for the Kingdom of God.

Remember to cover our family

in prayer as well as the work here

in Latvia. May God continue to

bless you as you sacrifice to give.

Thank You to Pastor Pickard for

allowing me to be a part of the

Ontario Missions Conference. I

would also like to thank all the

Pastors and Churches who allow-

ed me and my family to share

our burden and vision for

missions in Latvia while we were

in the States. A SPECIAL 'Thank

You' to Bro. Vic and Sis. Ginger

for sponsoring the Project for

Alexandra and Preston. They

each now have their own real bed

with an attached desk and shelf

unit for homeschooling. This

personalized space in a shared

room means a lot to them.

Thanksgiving

We had the honor of celebrating

Thanksgiving with many wonder-

ful people, who we count not

only as friends but also as 'family.'

We were blessed to share this

day with Nathan and Kaylana

Miller and Family (American's

residing/working in Latvia), Tony

and Shasta Miller and Family

(Missionaries to Lithuania), Nate

and Ingunn Turner and Family

(Missionaries to Estonia), Cilija

(AIM from Norway to Estonia),

Rachel Zehm (AIM to Latvia)

and of course Missionaries Mark

and Robin Shutes. We all enjoyed

a fabulous turkey dinner with all

the trimmings and a fantastic time

of fellowship and games! Almost

felt like 'home.'

Praise Reports from

Team Latvia

Souls for the Kingdom

We are so excited about what

God is doing! There have been

a total of 17 baptized in Jesus

Name and 12 have been filled

with the gift of the Holy Ghost.

We are part of an awesome

team in Latvia and we have an

awesome group of Partners In

Missions supporting us both in

prayer and in finances. More

importantly, we serve an awe-

some God! To God be the Glory!

Miraculous Healing

While we were in the United

States a young couple was

brought to the house church in the

Kengarags Region of Riga. They

were in desperate need of a

miracle in their lives. This was an

unmarried couple who were

expecting the birth of their first

child in a couple of months. The

couple explained their devastating

situation. The young woman had

tested positive for HIV and there

was a fear that the child would

have it as well.

The House Church

group rallied around them and pray-

ed as the presence of the Holy

Ghost filled the apartment. Two

days later she went back to the

doctor for a second test. This time

the results showed that there was

NO SIGN of HIV in her system.

After that they were taught on the

plan of salvation, baptized in Jesus'

Name and the young man was filled

with the Holy Ghost. The week that

we arrived back in Riga, she gave

birth to a healthy baby boy, who

was in a hurry to come into this

world a little early. The couple was

married on November 20th by Bro.

Doug Elkins immediately following

our Sunday Hall Church. The young

woman and her baby were officially

discharged from the hospital and

came home this past Wednesday.

The young couple and their new-

born baby were in attendance at

Bible Study Group on Thursday.

God is a miracle working God!

New Bible Study Group

The young man in the above praise

report is so excited about God,

what He has done in his life and

what God is continuing to do that

he approached Mark Shutes about

starting a new Bible Study Group

and inviting all his friends. We met

with this Bible Study Group this

past Thursday and will continue on

a weekly basis; looking forward to

what God has in store for this

wonderful group of people.

Red Cross Opportunity

Since our return to Riga, God has

opened a door at the Red Cross

and has given the team the

opportunity to teach Life Lessons

and English classes every week.

Included in the Life Lessons Class

is Biblical study and we end each

session with prayer. Through this

we have seen lives impacted by

the power of God! We have had

an average of 16 in attendance the

last three weeks.

Prayer Requests

We are currently looking for a

building to lease in Riga City

Center that we can hold our

Sunday Hall Church services in.

Our lease on the current building

ends on January 31st with no

opportunity to extend the lease.

Please pray for God's guidance that

we will find the building that fulfills

His purpose.

Please also keep Missionary

Mark Shutes and his team in

your prayers as they will be launch-

ing Revival By Design (RBD) in

Europe/Middle East in January.

Michael and Christine McKinnies and Family

Directors of Evangelism for Latvia

Facebook: michael n christine mckinnies

Email: juniorquizmaster@yahoo.com

Phone: 269-978-1965

~Impact ASIA - November 2011

2011-12-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

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By Bro. Eugene Wilson

In September, 2011 I was approached by a lady in our church whose husband happened to be working in China at the time. She asked, "Are you ready to go to China?" Without hesitation I replied, "Yes!" Sixteen months prior, while listening to my professor talk about
a recent trip he had made to China, the Lord quickened in my spirit that I would one day visit this country. The husband of the lady who approached me travels to China four times a year with his job. His company allows him to fly first class, but if he flies economy they will pay the air flight for a friend. As a result, on October 15, 2011, I left Memphis, TN for a thirteen-day trip to China. After a layover in Seattle, we boarded our plane for a twelve-hour flight to Beijing, China. As God would have it, the man in our church got bumped from economy seating to first class. I love how God works.

Prior to my trip, I had contacted Bro. Xenn with some questions regarding the forms for a Chinese Visa. During our correspondence he mentioned the possibility of me connecting with the underground Chinese church. Things came together and after spending a few days of sightseeing in Beijing, I flew to Chengdu, Szechuan to meet Bro. Caleb. The following four days were the highlight of my trip. Bro. Caleb hosted a leadership training seminar where I spoke on "Helping People Change." Several pastors and key leaders were in attendance, about thirty people total. On Friday, I taught for over six hours. A beautiful move of the Spirit swept through several times as people received the Word of God.

The following evening, after a day of fellowship and sightseeing, I met with a Chinese pastor and his wife. Together, they pastor sixteen churches with over 1000 people. They are currently training 100 leaders and wanted to know if I had any thoughts as to what they should be doing with regards to leadership training. God used Bro. Caleb and me to minister to this couple. It was a humbling experience. Another Chinese pastor had joined our meeting; near the end of our time together, he began talking about the United States. He remarked that America was losing the battle for morality and, consequently, our support for Israel had lessened. He said if America did not reverse the current trend, America would end up where China has been. He could speak some English and he said, "I want to pray for America and Israel." As he began to pray I began to weep. I was in a nation that does not allow freedom of worship, and this man was praying for United States, a nation that allows freedom of worship but is walking away from God. It was one of the most powerful prayers I have heard. I understood at that moment, clearer than ever, why I believe the end time revival will come primarily through the church in China.

On Sunday, I was privileged to minister in a house church Bro. Caleb started one year ago. There were nearly 50 people in attendance. We stood shoulder to shoulder in the living room and hallway of an apartment and worshipped God. The expression of joy on the faces of these people as they sang songs of worship was absolutely beautiful. A young lady who is blind led us in singing. She helped to usher us into the presence of God. The Lord ministered a direct word for the congregation and people were touched. Afterwards, several ladies fixed a wonderful Chinese meal. After dinner we made our way back to Chengdu were we had another service; this service took place in Bro. Caleb's home. Again, the presence of the Lord was manifested and the people were touched. Bro. Caleb was the most gracious host. I immediately fell in love with him and his family. He is a man appointed by God "for such a time as this."

There is much I could say about my visit to China. The country is beautiful. The Great Wall is incredible. And the people are friendly. But what stands out the most is the hand of God that is upon the church in China. These people do not have the freedom of worship as we have. They do not have the resources we have. They do not have the church buildings we have. But they do not need buildings. And in spite of the lack of resources the Chinese church is experiencing a great revival because the Chinese church has God.

Find more information about Impact Asia at

www.impactasia.us

www.globalimpactministries.us

~An Incredible Journey - Doug and Nannette Elkins

2011-12-02T09:23:00.000-08:00

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An Incredible Journey...
This is the only way to describe what we have experienced during our first six months in Riga. Knowing that we walked into a country where the spirit of deception has bound the people for centuries, and seeing a brand new awakening has been nothing short of miraculous!

Another Awesome Month!

It was hard for us to imagine that November could be more exciting than the previous months here in Riga...yet that is exactly what God had in store! Sadly, the month began with our son Korey, and another young man who had been here since late May, returning to the States. Both of these young men played a major role in the successes and impact that the team was able to make here in Latvia. we will continue to pray for them as they seek the will of God for their future.

Following our House Church service one evening, a young couple was brought to us who were in desperate need of a miracle in their lives. Janis & Laura were an unmarried couple who were expecting the birth of their first child in a couple of months. You could see the devastation on their faces as they shared the scope of their situation. Laura had tested positive for HIV and there was a fear that the child would have it as well. Our House Church group rallied around them and as we prayed, a tremendous presence of the Holy Ghost filled our apartment. We made arrangements to meet with them a few days later to teach them a Bible study. Two days later, I received a report that Laura had gone back to the doctor for a second test. This time the results showed that there was NO SIGN of any HIV in her system anywhere! The joy on their faces when we met with them the following day was incredible. We taught them on the plan of salvation, we baptized them in Jesus' Name and Janis was filled with the gift of the Holy Ghost!

And the story doesn't end there! The next night they were in attendance at our Hall Church service. The presence of God was so rich as Janis & Laura both soaked it in. Following service, Janis asked me if I could marry them. As we were leaving for the States in a week, whirlwind preparations began to take place in order to bring this joyous occasion together. The following Sunday evening, the first portion of our regular Worship Service was set aside for their wedding. They had several guests in attendance to share in the joy, and many of them stayed for the duration of our abbreviated service that followed. Two of their friends were in attendance at our House Church meeting the following Tuesday, they were filled with the Holy Ghost this past Sunday, and were baptized this past Tuesday! God has truly opened the floodgates and we are preparing for a sweeping revival in Riga! By the way...in the midst of that hectic week of wedding preparations, Laura gave birth to a healthy, yet slightly premature baby boy! We can only surmise that he was just so excited that he didn't want to miss out on everything that was going on!

November brought a new chapter in our Riga Hall Church. We held our last service in the old, historical Anglican Church building. In order to facilitate a more suitable meeting time, we sought a new facility so that we could hold afternoon worship services. God opened another miraculous door in providing a wonderful meeting hall which is very modern as well as offering a place to hold children's services at the same time as we are ministering to the adults. In just four short months since we launched public services here in Riga, we have seen 16 people baptized and 12 have been filled with the Holy Ghost. When you consider the culture and the history of this country, these numbers are nothing short of astounding. We are beginning to see the foundation laid in the lives of these people that God will build a strong church upon. As we continue to teach, train and mentor these nationals in preparation for them to begin to evangelize and reach out to their fellow countrymen, God is doing mighty miracles in their lives.

The team has begun holding weekly Bible Studies in a conference room that is supplied at the local Red Cross building that serves as a shelter. The first meeting had 15 locals in attendance, and the anticipation is that this number will grow in the weeks that follow. This will prove to be the foundation for another new House Church group to be birthed. Ministry opportunities are becoming abundant as God shows favor on the sacrifice that has gone forth.

A Brief Pause...

We have currently returned to the States for a few weeks in order to solidify and increase our level of financial support. Upon our planned return to Latvia in mid-January, we will go full force into the preparation of launching Bible School programs throughout Europe and the Middle East. Traditionally, the end of the year is a time when many people are looking for an opportunity to make a tax-deductible donation. We would ask that you prayerfully consider making a one-time or partnering with us on a monthly basis. Our return to Riga is dependent upon our raising a substantial level of support. If you would like to join with us, please visit the support page of our website and find everything you need there to make a HUGE difference in the lives of many people! We appreciate your consideration in this matter.

Doug and Nannette Elkins

AIMers to Latvia

~Suriname News Flash - November 2011

2011-11-30T10:31:00.000-08:00

Suriname News Flash

November 2011

Hello from the Rhoads family. Here are a few events from November.

November 10-13
The national conference of the United Pentecostal Church of Suriname took place in Paramaribo, the capital city. Below are a few highlights of the conference.

Special guests, Pastor and Mrs. Kevin Prince, from Tyler, Texas
Business meetings for national board and licensed ministers
Leadership training sessions
Three people filled with the Holy Ghost

November 19
Kristin celebrated her sixteenth birthday. (A belated Happy Birthday from the Western District Foreign Missions department)

November 25
Suriname celebrated the thirty-sixth anniversary of its independence.

November 27
The assistant pastor in Paramaribo baptized sixteen people at the central prison.

Thank you for praying for our family and for the church in Suriname.

The Rhoads Family
Missionaries to Suriname

Visit our web page at www.RhoadsMission.com

Follow us on Twitter at user name PhillipRhoads.

~Happy Thanksgiving 2011 from WD Foreign Missions

2011-11-24T08:48:00.000-08:00

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Thank you everyone for your faithfulness and support in every area of giving...working together with God we can and will accomplish the work He has given us to do.

God bless all of you today as you celebrate 'Thanksgiving' with your family and friends...may God's continued blessing be upon you and your household as you serve Him.

"In all things give thanks..." - it doesn't mean that every thing that happens in our lives is good but that no matter what happens we will continue to praise and worship God and give Him thanks for His goodness, mercy and truth. "For the Lord is good, His mercy is everlasting and His truth endureth to all generations."

Western District Foreign Missions Department

Michael Hanks, Director

John Thomas, Secretary

Jerry Powell, Promotion Director

Don Demyan, Director - Region One

Clayton Brown - Director - Region Two

John Thomas - Director - Region Three

Morgan Underwood, Honorary

~Missions Miracle in Nicaragua - Read How it has Happened!

2011-11-23T14:50:00.000-08:00

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by Missionary Stephen Nix

It all started with two offerings! In Bossier City there was a miraculous missions offering that was “looking” for just the right place to be invested in God’s Kingdom. In Nicaragua, 150 pastors and wives were gathered together in the “Pastors and Wives Only” service during the Nicaraguan General Conference. There was a need in the work, and an appeal was made to dig deep and give sacrificially. All over the auditorium, precious men of God dug deep into their pockets and gave in a way that only the Lord could inspire. In some cases, they gave money that they had planned to use to eat with on the way home … a trip that for some would mean eight to twelve hours on the road. Regional Director John Hopkins began to lead the pastors and wives in worship as the offering was taken. As they emptied their pockets to give, a mighty Spirit of rejoicing came over everyone present. All over the auditorium, pastors and their wives came pouring out of their pews, and in front of the platform, began to dance before the Lord with all their might! Some ran the aisles, others leaped up and down with the joy of the Holy Ghost, and various groups of ten or twelve pastors would link arms, forming a circle, and the circle would rotate as they jointly praised and worshipped the Lord of Lords and King of Kings … our Savior Jesus Christ!

As this awesome wave of the Spirit swept over the ministerial body of Nicaragua, and we worshipped with all our might, I borrowed Bro. Hopkins’ camera and captured a few moments of this unforgettable time of praise and rejoicing in the Spirit. Sometime later, Pastor Jerry Dean of the Pentecostals of Bossier City was sharing the news of the victorious offering, wondering how to best use it. Bro. Hopkins played the video clip of the Nicaraguan brethren worshipping after having given so sacrificially. Something “clicked” and a bond was made with a people never met, yet known -- through the Name of Jesus and the power of his Holy Spirit that unites believers of like precious faith all over the world! Bro. Hopkins shared that Missionary Supervisor Steve Nix and Nicaraguan UPC President Eduardo García had been praying for fifteen years for the Lord to bring to pass their vision for the Church to have a Bible School and National Offices on its own property.

From this conversation, the miracle for this vision began to unfold, and the William H. Dean Memorial Bible School Project was born! The Bible School and National Offices of the United Pentecostal Church of Nicaragua would be a memorial in honor of a great man of God, Pastor Jerry Dean’s father. While some miracles are instantaneous, others are a work in progress, which unfolds, little by little, exactly when the need is greatest. The story of the project in Nicaragua is one of perseverance through a series of victories and sacrifices and one of an incredible commitment that has been ongoing and unwavering on behalf of the wonderful folks at POBC. While it would have been exciting to wave a “magic wand” and watch everything leap into place overnight, this did not happen. What has happened, however, is that we have faced a series of events, challenges to be met, problems to be overcome, sacrifices to be made, and a whole lot of just plain hard WORK! At every turn, God has provided and brought us through, and with each successive victory, He has taken us just a little further toward the end goal … dedication of the William H. Dean Memorial Building, and renewed Bible School operations.

At times, the challenges were nearly daunting. We soon discovered that property of any size inside city limits of Managua would cost upwards of a million dollars. We prayed, believed and continued to seek, and after seemingly endless months of searching, the Lord led us to seven acres of property just five miles outside city limits, located only 3 blocks off a major highway with bus service in and out of Managua. After rejoicing over the purchase of the property, the next hurdle was finding an affordable architect to draw up plans. Once again, God provided and a young man just out of college did it for a fraction of what others wanted to charge! We excitedly raced the plans over to city hall, hoping for an immediate approval, only to discover that once again, much prayer and perseverance would be required to move to the next level of the project. After many months, God granted yet another victory and we had our building permit in our hands! December 6, 2010 was the red-letter day when a group of pastors gathered on the property with Bro. Nix, Bro. García and missionary Jayson Long to break ground for the William H. Dean Memorial Building.

Little did I know just how much was involved in constructing a two-story building of that size, and what looked simple on pieces of paper seemed to grow to overwhelming proportion as we began the journey together to make this building happen. But what a journey it has been! Nearly 50 weeks later, I can see God has been with us every step of the way. With very little in the way of fancy equipment, and often with tools of “yesteryear”, our crew has accomplished what seemed impossible at the start, and we are a long ways down the road toward completion.

At various times during this journey, the Pentecostals of Nicaragua have put their shoulder to the wheel when the need was the greatest. At the very beginning, the property had to be cleared of weeds and brush nearly 6 ft. tall. We designated a “mowing Sunday” and members within a 4 hour travel time were invited to come and help “mow” the property. Around 300 men and women showed up from all over, carrying machetes, axes, rakes and hoes. The sun rose, and the temperature climbed into the 90’s as the backbreaking work of mowing seven acres by hand began…and by early afternoon, the entire property had been cleared by a people excited to have our own Bible School property!

When it was time to dig the massive holes for the anti-earthquake columns and footers, the entire Nicaraguan church general board showed up to help dig, and in one day, the main digging was completed. Another major milestone was accomplished when the concrete pad for the second story was poured. The easy way would have been to contract a concrete company to bring trucks and pipe it in, but the cost was prohibitive. Instead, we declared a “concrete pouring Sunday” and called again for volunteers. Early that Sunday morning, 270 men showed up ready to go … knowing that the entire pad had to be poured in one day. Rain was threatening to downpour, but we lifted hands to God and asked Him to hold back the rain until we finished – and God answered prayer! We had three rented cement mixing machines and nine dirt pads for making concrete by hand. The men began working, mixing the concrete and carrying it upstairs in 5 gallon buckets. Because of the massive turnout and the amazing cooperation of everyone, the pad was entirely poured by early afternoon. When the last worker had finished, and plastic was placed over the new concrete, then and only then did the rain begin. God is so faithful!

When we needed someone to help us with the initial electrical installations, we had no one locally we could turn to. However, Pastor Dean had just the solution: a dynamic team of men from Bossier City! Bro. Josh Crochet and Allan Hennigan came down and worked in the intense heat of the Nicaraguan summer sun for a week, and their sacrifice was not only a tremendous boost in terms of labor, but their cheerful cooperation under difficult circumstances also gave us a needed boost in morale!

Another major victory was won through the blessing of the Louisiana Men on a Mission crew. Bro. Alan Goss is truly amazing, and his organization of the work crew was simply phenomenal. Even before the team arrived, we spent hours on the telephone working out details. We wanted to advance the upstairs electrical conduit and wiring as much as possible, so he took the time to send us detailed drawings that made it possible to follow step-by-step. Bro. Josh Crochet did the same for the downstairs area. The Louisiana team (also joined by Bro. Jerry Powell from California) left an unforgettable impression on us all as they worked with dedication and determination. In one week’s time they accomplished the impossible: install all the walls upstairs, sheetrock and mud, enclose the stairs, install the drop ceiling framework downstairs and complete electrical wiring to all the sub-panels. As I watched these men brave unbearable heat and humidity to help us out here on the mission field, there were times that I wanted to weep with thanksgiving that we should be so blessed to have someone come overseas and do what they did for us here in Nicaragua!

No, we are not finished with the construction yet. There are a number of major hurdles yet to be crossed, but we are a very long ways down the road, and because of helping hands – both Nicaraguan and North American – that have caught the vision and were willing to do what it takes, we have seen some incredible victories during the journey. By faith, we will see the William H. Dean Memorial Building complete and in operation!

~Suriname News Flash - October 2011

2011-11-19T11:03:00.000-08:00

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October 2011

As someone once said, "The hurrier I go, the behinder I get." We are definitely behind, as November is over half gone and we are just sending out our October update. Here it is, hopefully better late than never.

October 2
Back to School Sunday with special program and prayer for students.

October 5
Three people received the Holy Ghost at Open Door Group Gonggrijpstraat.

October 6
Happy birthday, Sandra! (And, a belated Happy Birthday from WD Foreign Missions)

October 9
One person received the Holy Ghost in Paramaribo.

October 11
Happy birthday, Phillip! (And, a belated Happy Birthday from WD Foreign Missions)

October 16
Leadership meeting for capital city church.

October 23
Assistant pastor preached in Paramaribo service. One person received the Holy Ghost.

October 28-30
Trip to Barbados for the Caribbean Conference of the United Pentecostal Church.

Thank you for praying for our family and for the church in Suriname.

The Rhoads Family
Missionaries to Suriname

Visit our web page at www.RhoadsMission.com.
Follow us on Twitter at user name PhillipRhoads.

~Kenneth F. Haney - A Word from J. Mark Jordan

2011-11-19T07:55:00.000-08:00

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On December 8, 2009, I wrote this letter as a response to the administration of Kenneth Haney after eight years as General Superintendent. Little did anyone know that we would attend his funeral less than two years later. As I re-read this letter, I felt it said everything I would have said in a written farewell. Hopefully, it will add something unique to the hundreds of other expressions that his passing has inspired.

Dear Brother and Sister Haney,

Leadership at the highest levels requires a special dispensation of the grace of God. “All of the great leaders have had one characteristic in common: it was the willingness to confront unequivocally the major anxiety of their people in their time. This, and not much else, is the essence of leadership.” Of all the things will be said about both of you during your farewell season, this quote from John Kenneth Galbraith seems most appropriate to me. Your ability to identify the major anxieties of our time, and the courage to address them, will forever define your place in the history of the United Pentecostal Church, International.

Thank you for bringing integrity, transparency and kindness to the position you held. Thank you for your determination not to politicize your office. Thank you emphasizing a realistic approach to our operations, even though it necessitated difficult decisions. Thank you for leading us again and again to unity and brotherly love, pouring in the oil and balm of healing. Thank you for reminding us of our glorious oneness Pentecostal past, in both formal and informal ways while continuing to show us an even more glorious future that remains within our reach. Your irrepressible optimism set the tone for the many leaders under your influence, like me, and you constantly gave us a sense of purpose in our collective vision.

You accomplished all of the above without diminishing your ability to personally touch our lives. You took the time to shake our hands, call our names, compliment us on our achievements and listen to our grievances. You conducted yourself in your official capacity with exemplary humility, never showing the effects of any private burdens or difficulties of your own. You accepted the will of the brethren as the will of God, and you demonstrated to us all tremendous grace and dignity as you relinquished your position to another.

I am confident that you will venture into the next phase of your life and ministry with great faith, but there will be moments of reflection on the past eight years. As you look back, always remember that you engaged in greatness, not pettiness; that you were a force for the positive, not the negative; and that you always chose the right way, not the convenient way. You did not choose the climate or context of the times in which you were thrust into leadership, but you did not vacillate under the stress and demands of the circumstances. Truly, you were brought to the kingdom for such a time as this.

We are a better people, a better organization and we are better equipped because of your eight years at the helm of the United Pentecostal Church, International. You have our undying gratitude.

With great love and respect,

J. Mark Jordan

*Note! Reprinted with permission of the author, Bro. J. Mark Jordan.

~The Lord of the Harvest/Plan for World Evangelism - #8

2011-11-14T04:00:00.000-08:00

Move On:

“And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet” (Matthew 10:14).

To shake the dust off their feet was a Jewish custom. It was a visual to show the people that they had made the wrong choice. The opportunity to choose Christ may never be presented to them again. It let them know that the messenger was innocent of their blood. He had obeyed the Lord of the Harvest, fulfilled His task, and the results were in the hands of God and those that heard him. Shaking the dust off one’s feet was also symbolic to the preacher. It told him to keep moving and not to be discouraged.

It is easy to read this passage and the only thing that remains in our minds is the negative; to shake the dust off our feet and move on. But, look at the reverse impact of adhering to this master plan of evangelism. Through following its principles the gospel is taken to the whole world, the kingdom of God is expanded through evangelism, deepened through discipleship, new churches are planted in the most cost-effective manner, and souls are saved. These are all reasons for rejoicing and lifting one’s hands in praise, bending one’s knees in worship, and proclaiming God’s goodness. And that beats causing a little dust storm any day.

Jim Poitras, Director of Education/AIM for the UPCI Global Missions Department

*This is the last in a series of eight posts to complete the article

~The Lord of the Harvest/Plan for World Evangelism - #7

2011-11-13T04:00:00.000-08:00

Provide:
“Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat” (Matthew 10:9-10).

“Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:31-33).

The principles of God’s Word are very clear. If we take care of God’s business, He will take care of our business. God will provide. He will not forsake us. We walk by faith. Susan Fitkins said, “We never test the resources of God until we attempt the impossible for Him.” God has all we need and He will supply it to us (Philippians 4:19).

Inquire:
The messengers were to inquire or search for a place or person open to letting them stay there. Hopefully, in any and every town there is someone that will welcome the truth into his home and heart and will listen to the message and let it take hold in his life. Not everyone will be open and receptive. That is why, in missions, we refer to populations or people that are either receptive or resistant.

“And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, inquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence. And when ye come into an house, salute it. And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you” (Matthew 10:11-13).

Gailyn Van Rheenen in Biblical Foundations and Missions explains “the world may be thought of as a giant orchard having many fields. Although some fields are ready for harvest, the husbandman is concerned about all fields, for their harvest will come in due time.” The Lord of the Harvest cares for the world and sends laborers out into the fields; everywhere and anywhere. People are like those fields. They go through times of readiness and resistance. She recommends that “the receptive should be harvested while they are open to the message and the resistant nurtured until they become receptive.”

Jim Poitras, Director of Education/AIM for the UPCI

Global Missions Department

~Thai-Gram - Nov. 2011/Ed and Mary Simmons

2011-11-12T23:49:00.000-08:00

Thai-Gram

November 2011

Please continue to pray for Thailand as there is

much flooding taking place all over the country.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

There is a new page on our web site-New Life Bangkok

Please visit to learn about the capital city of Thailand

whose population is larger than 160 countries of the

world.

Click HERE New Life Bangkok to visit the page. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

After General Conference we began our deputizing in

the Oklahoma District. Had a wonderful time staying

with our previous Regional Director for Asia, Paul

Dennis. Brother and Sister Dennis were wonderful

hosts. I purchased Brother Dennis's new book at

General Conference and
thoroughly enjoyed reading

about the life of this apostolic minister/missionary. If

you're looking for an inspirational and faith building

book, then I highly recommend, "Order My Steps".

You can go HERE to get more information.

Paul Dennis & Ed Simmons

Shirley Dennis & Mary Simmons

Brother Nattapong passed away in his sleep at the
Ladies' Conference last month in Thailand. Please
remember his family in your prayers. He was one
of our dedicated and faithful pastors and a member
of the Thai UPC General Board.

The population of the city of Bangkok

is larger than 160 countries in the world!

Please add edandmarysimmons@aol.com

to your email's contacts/address book.

God bless each of you.

Thank you so much for your continued prayers

and support,

Ed & Mary Simmons

Bangkok, Thailand

Ed & Mary Simmons
8855 Dunn Rd.
Hazelwood, MO 63042
USA
edsimmons238@yahoo.com

Become a "PARTNER IN MISSIONS" with Us

Visit Our Web Site
Visit Thailand Bible School Web Site
Visit ApostolicWeb.Com

WD Mission's News and Reviews

~Barcelona Commentary - March 2012

~David F. Gray Memorial Bible School / Vanuatu, South Pacific

~Mexigram - March 2012 / REVIVAL in Mexico

~Adopt a Window or Door -W. H. Dean Bible School/Managua, Nicaragua

~Project for the country of Portugal - Oscar Rodriques family

~W. H. Dean Bible School/Administration Bldg. - More Photos

~W. H. Dean Bible School/Administration Bldg. - Additional Photos

~Work Continues on the W. H. Dean Bible School/Managua, Nicaragua

~Barcelona Commentary - January/February 2012

~January 2012 Mexigram - Revival in Mexico!

~CSI Thanks YOU for your Generous Support

~The Mark Alphin Family - Finland

~Suriname News Flash - December 2011

Suriname News Flash

~Happy New Year - 2012

~It's New Year's Eve - Celebrate

~Merry Christmas from the WD FMD

~Merry Christmas from the David Bernard Family

~Merry Christmas from the Suppan family - Austria

Dear friends and family,We would like to extend our warmest Christmas Greetings to you and your lovedones, and hope you will be able to spend many enjoyable hours with those close to you!The Suppan Family,Austria

~URGENT Appeal for the Philippines - Please HELP!

Urgent Appeal for The Philippines

~CSI - An URGENT Appeal for HELP!

~Urgent Need in the Country of Turkey

Merry Christmas From Compassion Services InternationalDECEMBER 20, 2011 · 9:57 PMURGENT NEED IN TURKEY

URGENT NEED IN TURKEY

~'Washi all Away' by Missionary Kelley Dibble

~More Information on Tropical Cyclone Washi/Philippines

~Photos of Devastation in Southern Philippines

~Tropical Storm Ravages Southern Philippines

~Merry Christmas from the Oscar Rodriques family

~Merry Christmas from Gary/Kristi Landaw - Puerto Rico

~We're Back - Michael and Christine McKinnies/AIMers to Latvia

~Impact ASIA - November 2011

~An Incredible Journey - Doug and Nannette Elkins

Another Awesome Month!

A Brief Pause...

~Suriname News Flash - November 2011

Suriname News Flash

~Happy Thanksgiving 2011 from WD Foreign Missions

~Missions Miracle in Nicaragua - Read How it has Happened!

~Suriname News Flash - October 2011

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October 2011

~Kenneth F. Haney - A Word from J. Mark Jordan

~The Lord of the Harvest/Plan for World Evangelism - #8

~The Lord of the Harvest/Plan for World Evangelism - #7

~Thai-Gram - Nov. 2011/Ed and Mary Simmons

Dear friends and family,

We would like to extend our warmest
Christmas Greetings to you and your loved
ones, and hope you will be able to spend
many enjoyable hours with those close to
you!

The Suppan Family,
Austria

Merry Christmas From Compassion Services International
DECEMBER 20, 2011 · 9:57 PM
URGENT NEED IN TURKEY