Tribute to a Sender

We were saddened when we received word of the passing of a dear lady who has blessed us with her faithfulness. We met Louise many years ago at a missions conference at her church when we were new missionaries just preparing to go to Belgium. From that brief weekend of interacting Louise began supporting our ministry and continued as we have lived in 3 different countries and ministered in over 30 others with 2 different mission organizations. Her steadfastness is all the more amazing as we never again had face to face contact.

When we found out a few years ago that Louise had moved we assumed this was a phase of life that might not allow her the means to continue with us financially. But she continued a donation every year until we learned that she has gone to her Lord and her reward.

I was surprised at the emotion I felt over the loss of this precious lady. We did not know her well, but she so encouraged us by her steadfastness through the years. And I’m sure this is only one of many examples of her service in the kingdom. 

It wasn't for us -- it was for God. It was not for earthly recognition or appreciation. Her heavenly reward is great.

. . . You know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.  Col. 3:24 

 

See the Good Stuff that Happened!

Mihalis tells about how the Southern Cross band impacted the country of Greece.

First Tour in Greece -- But not the Last

Didn’t we just get on this plane?? 

Now we’re already back from Greece, over colds and jet lag, and have had a chance to do some unpacking -- of our suitcases and our experiences in Greece.  

First we have to say how amazing this tour was! The team dynamic totally worked -- spirit and enthusiasm were excellent. And we experienced an incredible bond with our ministry partners in Greece. Everything Jim had sensed about the potential of this cooperative effort when they met last year was true -- and more. 

We can’t say enough about Mihalis who planned, organized and kept the tour going, drove, set up and ran sound, and made sure we were fed, served, entertained, and introduced to history and culture. And all while balancing other major responsibilities. This was definitely a “plowing” tour, and we knew that going in. But we sensed that every venue-- large or small -- and every ministry was strategic.

 

We were very aware of prayer on our behalf that whole time. God’s hand was evident. It was affirming that even with extremely diverse audiences the music was universally embraced. 

And the songs chosen and the message and introductions in each context were just right for the unique need in ways we could not have known or planned for.

And we were protected in what could have been some threatening locations with outreach to drug addicts, and frequenting rough areas of town in ministries to refugees and homeless. We never felt in danger.

As follow up – please pray for the new contacts who have strongly connected with these ministries we worked with. And for the tireless leaders whose innovative ministries are reaching people. We’re encouraged, especially by young leaders who are so dedicated and resourceful. Please pray for us as we consider future possibilities there.

Thank God, and continue to pray, for this team of guys –- Matt, Joel, Greg, Nels –- who were positively impacted by this experience, that their desire will stay strong to serve God however he leads. 

Southern Cross is planning to keep going. Please pray that God will direct in the opportunities.

The first day our friends in Greece were saying:       

      "If you come back . . . "

2nd day they were saying       

       "When you come back . . ."

3rd day WE were saying --          

       "When we come back . . . "

Next Stop: Greece - October 12-27

            

Southern Cross in Greece

Greg   Matt   Nels    Joel    Jim

In less than 2 months we will be with this band in Greece. All from our home church in Jacksonville, this is a a very motivated and dedicated group of excellent musicians already serving God and the local church through faithfully leading in Sunday worship times. Now they are excited about this opportunity that God has so clearly put together. See a sample of their music in this song that Matt wrote, and a little background on the group and info on the tour.

32 Years Ago Today

That was the day, July 2, 1982, we arrived in Ireland (because Belgium wouldn't let us in) for our very first mission experience together. We went not knowing where we would end up for our 3-year term -- Spain, Greece, Ireland, maybe Belgium? The hardest part was saying goodbye to family and friends but we were excited about our new adventure whatever it would be . . .

Little did we know what an amazing and rewarding adventure WAS ahead as we got off the flight in Dublin met by a team that welcomed us refugees without a country. 

Phil and Cheryl

The Kingsleys, who had already been in Dublin for a whole 3 months helped us settle in, and we had total confidence that they knew everything about Ireland and missions.

As it turned out -- we were there for only about 3 weeks before we got word that our visas for Belgium had finally been approved after a year of waiting. Within a couple days we were whisked off on a ferry across the Irish sea to pick up our car and some belongings that had been shipped to Liverpool, for a drive across England, car ferry to France, and the rest of the journey to Brussels. 

But in those short weeks in Ireland we bonded with the team and the country and are thankful for that great welcome experience God gave us. 

Sort of our missions honeymoon. 


I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.
 Isa 42:16 

Memories of World Cup Events Past

I'm remembering our first up-close experience with World Cup madness. We moved into our house in France the day France won the 1998 Championship which was played IN France. Poor 11-year-old-Jami who understood barely a word of French was out riding her bike when the neighborhood erupted. She was so traumatized by crazed neighborhood kids, I don't think she ever rode her bike again in the 4 years we lived there.

It's a huge deal, and one of the means Proclaim ministries are using to engage people as World Cup excitement builds in July. 

Click here to see how Proclaim ministries in Croatia and Peru are bringing World Cup crowds a world changing message.