Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Swazi Team Monthly Prayer Calendar

Saturday May 1: But your iniquities have separated you from your God; and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear Isaiah 59:2 The Big Bend Baptist Church began revival services on the 26th of April and will conclude on the 8th of May. Repentance is the theme and Isaiah 59:2 is the theme verse. Pray the people of the Big Bend Baptist Church will feel a deep burden to confess sins that separate them from their God and will seek His face and hear His voice.

Sunday May 2: During the first two weeks of May the Allens will be sharing with a few local Baptist churches near where Steve’s parents live in North Carolina. It is a small community and probably not many missionaries come share with these churches. Pray for the Allens as they connect with different churches in sharing how God is moving in Swaziland.

Monday May 3: “This is the first Easter in two years!” remarked a leader concerning the National Easter Services in April. The last two years problems had occurred that caused division. This year there was a spirit of unity, fellowship and a desire to see everyone work together. The “Spirit of Easter” definitely came to this year’s Easter services. Pray for a continued spirit of unity among the Swazi Baptist churches and Swazi Baptist Convention. Pray the Spirit of Easter will be with us all year long!

Tuesday May 4: A year ago Lisa Warren’s father, Lloyd Claiborne suffered a debilitating stroke. The Claibornes have lived with the Warrens since their return to the states in August 2009. Last month the Claibornes were able to return to their home. We praise the Lord for His healing touch. Pray Mr. Claiborne will have full recovery from his stroke. Pray for the Warren family as they seek the Lord’s will and direction for their future ministries.

Wednesday May 5: Trying to start and sustain homestead churches continue to be difficult. Challenges include not wanting to be identified as Zionist (African Traditional Religion), feeling the church belongs to the homestead family and feeling the church imposes on the family by meeting each week. Pray Christian Swazis will understand the need to reach their neighbors for Jesus. Pray these challenges will not keep them from organizing and meeting on a regular basis.

Thursday May 6: Praise the Lord for the opportunity the Allens have had for a stateside time of refreshment and renewal for themselves and the family. Continue to pray for great times with own family and special memories with their extended family. Continue to pray for Monica as she and Lacie are homeschooling while stateside. It is an adjustment for our family but we are enjoying these times of one on one with Lacie each day.

Friday May 7: Continue to pray for Al and Belinda Jordan as they serve in Mbabane and Manzini while the Allens are stateside. Pray for strength to do daily ministries and wisdom to make daily decisions that will glorify the Lord. Pray their time in Swaziland will be very special.

Saturday May 8: The executive committee of the Baptist Mission of Swaziland meets today. One item on the agenda is to evaluate the National Easter Services in April. Pray for this group as they prayerfully reflect on the 2010 Easter services. Pray for a time of unity and consensus.

Sunday May 9: MOTHER’S DAY!!

A mother’s love is something

That no one can explain,

It is made of deep devotion

And of sacrifice and pain.

(Helen Steiner Rice)

Pray this day will be very special for the mothers of the Swazi Team members!!

Monday May 10: Continue to remember Bill and Matt from the Integrity Baptist Church as they prepare to come and minister in the Shiselweni and Lubumbo regions of Swaziland May 19-31.

Tuesday May 11: The Swazi Team praises the Lord for answering our request for personnel. A couple will arrive in October to fill the request for a church planter in the Manzini region and Religious Education which includes developing Rural Church Training Schools for pastors and lay leadership. Pray for this couple as they prepare for their ministry in Swaziland. Pray God will send more workers to serve alongside the Swazi Team to further God’s Kingdom.

Wednesday May 12: Pray the Allens will be wise with their time management of scheduling to share with churches and groups and the much needed times of rest. Pray they do not neglect their daily times with the Lord and family worship times together. They are thankful to be able to attend different churches in English as well as for Lacie and Nathan to be with other kids their own age.


Thursday May 13: Please continue to pray for the First Baptist Church of Belton, Texas preparing to lead the 2010 Swazi Baptist National Youth Camp in August. Pray the Lord will provide wisdom in the preparation of lessons and activities. Begin now praying the National Youth Camp will reach many Swazi youth for the Lord.

Friday May 14: Continue to remember family members of the Myers who are dealing with physical problems. Pray for Wayne’s brother Terry, currently in remission from stage 4 cancer; pray for his sister Patsy with COPD and on oxygen 24/7; pray Barbara’s sister’s husband will fully recover from his herniated disc surgery and pray for Barbara’s niece’s husband’s mother diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Saturday May 15: A former pastor of the Velebantfu Baptist Church and his wife have experienced marital problems over the years and have tried to make the marriage work with little success. Last month the couple reconciled and live on a farm between Thunzini and Nhlangano. Pray this family will be able to work out their difficulties. Pray the Lord will be the victor in this situation.

Sunday May 16: The Hawane Baptist Church has elected members to serve on its building committee. Please pray for these members as they lead the church in making plans for building a structure for the congregation.

Monday May 17: May 17-26 the Allens will be in eastern North Carolina sharing with these churches: First Baptist Church, Washington (19th), Swan Quarter Baptist Church (23rd); and possibly a church in the Atlantic Association on the 26th. Steve and Monica look forward to sharing with these churches that impacted Steve’s life. Pray for a great time of reunion and encouragement for the Allens as well as the churches.

Tuesday May 18: The volunteer team from the South Roanoke Association (NC) scheduled to arrive in April to work with the Luwahawheni community cancelled due to economics. The team currently is making plans to come to Swaziland in September. Pray for this team as preparations are made to continue with follow-up ministries with the Luwhawheni Baptist Church and community. Pray for each member of this team as he/she prepare for a time of reaching the lost and encouraging believers.

Wednesday May 19: The two-man volunteer team from the Integrity Baptist Church (NC) arrives today. The team will minister in the Shiselweni and Lubumbo regions conducting a revival and baptism service, teaching Bible studies and visiting homesteads. Pray for Ben and Matt as the Lord prepares them for His special assignment in Swaziland. Pray many lives will be touched through their witness.

Thursday May 20: Please pray salvation will come to the house of the King of Swaziland, his wives and children. Pray true revival will take place in this country.

Friday May 21: Statistics continue to tell us that many in Swaziland are HIV positive and many are dying with AIDS. The country of Swaziland contains less than 1 million due to the AIDS pandemic. Pray the AIDS pandemic will begin to lose its grip on the Swazi people. Pray for spiritual renewal in the hearts of Christians that will lead to godly lifestyles and salvation for the many living in spiritual darkness.

Saturday May 22: There are 26 countries in Africa with more than 1 million Muslims. The term Muslim refers to followers of Islam and its literal meaning is “submitted one.” Pray the Swazis will not be influenced to follow Islam due to the offer of jobs, payment for school fees and nice buildings in which to meet. Pray many Swazis will adhere to the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ and submit their lives totally to Him.

Sunday May 23: Today the New Hope Baptist Church will conduct a baptism service. The volunteer team from the Integrity Baptist Church will lead this time of celebration. Pray those being baptized will truly understand the commitment they have made to the Lord. Pray this special service will encourage the congregation of the New Hope Baptist Church.

Monday May 24: June 13-14, Monica Allen is scheduled to share at the National WMU meeting in Orlando, Fla. Pray for Monica as she prepares exactly what God would have her share with the many that will hear how God is moving all around the world.

Tuesday May 25: May 25-28 revival services will be held in the Luwhawheni community. Matt and Ben from the Integrity Baptist Church will lead. Pray these special services will touch the hearts of many Christians as well as the many lost Swazis in this area. Pray for a strong follow-up after the completion of the revival services.

Wednesday May 26: The Swazi Team welcomes Kym Pennington as their True Love Wait International Consultant. With the threat of AIDS destroying Swaziland’s youthful generation, the need for a strong True Love Waits program is great. Plans are being made for Kym to visit Swaziland and meet with the True Love Waits presenters. Pray for the planning of Kym’s visit and her time in Swaziland will be the beginning of a wonderful working relationship.

Thursday May 27: SUB-SAHARN AFRICA UNENGAGED PEOPLE: Pray for the Jahanka people of Mali. They are extremely strict Muslims, believing Mohammed to their uncle and are very proud of their strong Muslim heritage. Pray they will have a chance to come in contact with believers and will turn to the truth.

Friday May 28: In just a few weeks the biggest event to happen in South Africa-FIFA World Cup 2010 begins (June 11-July 11). Churches and religious organizations in South Africa are gearing up to get involved in this international soccer event. Please pray more church leaders and churches will choose to get involved by providing sports-related programs with opportunities to share testimonies during the World Cup.

Saturday May 29: June 28-July 5, June Mason, retired missionary will conduct three one-day Swazi Baptist women Bible studies in the Shiselweni and Lubumbo regions. June served in Tanzania, Zimbabwe and with the Swazi Team before retirement. Please pray for June as she prepares to come to Swaziland and minister with the Swazi Baptist women.

Sunday May 30: The lack of pastors continues to be one of the biggest problems facing our Swazi Baptist churches. Many of the churches continue to meet under lay leadership (often the women) who get discouraged that God has not provided them with pastoral leadership. Please pray God will develop leaders for these congregations.

Monday May 31:
Father, thank you for the United States and its government. I pray for the president, the national and local government, the judges, the policemen, the business leaders and all those who are in leadership positions in this country. Please protect them from evil that is in the world and keep them safe and free from harm. You have promised to bless any nation that follows after you. Help us live quiet and peaceful lives so that we can continue to spread the Good News of the Gospel throughout our land. Amen
(www.presidentialprayerteam.org)

Myers Weekly Letter

OUR CONTENTS OF OUR CRATE ARRIVED IN TSHANENI ON TUESDAY (4/20). It was as though Christmas arrived. Like a child I was quickly opening boxes and pulling everything out!! Making mental notations as to where each precious item would be placed!!

I am also so very happy to say for the first time since our return from stateside assignment in January, every box is unpacked, all belongings are placed and the house is clean!! AMEN!!

Because of the wonderful developments mentioned above I was so hoping to retain normalcy in my life as well as a routine. I planned to spend today on the computer (in my nice office that I share with Wayne) answering emails and sending our weekly prayer letter. BUT, Saturday when the computer was turned on, the keypad began ringing, like a school bell when the day is done!! Even though the computer is working (somewhat) Wayne felt the ringing might indicate a possible problem with the hard drive. After all, the sound of a school bell echoing from a computer must spell BAD NEWS!! To make the aggravation even worse, we purchased this computer in 2007 and at the end of 2008 it crashed and now this!

Please pray I will be able to do what I need to do on the computer this week, especially sending May’s Swazi Team Prayer Calendar.

We hope to find someone in Tshaneni that could help with our problem, if not Wayne will take the computer with him on Friday when he travels to Jo’burg to attend the week-long workshop, “Taking it to the Next Level.” Please pray we will be able to get the problem sorted without too much interruption to my newborn routine!! If Wayne takes my computer, pray I will be able to use his old laptop to do my computing chores.

The Big Bend Baptist Church has scheduled revival services that begin tonight and end on the 8th of May. Repentance is the theme and Isaiah 59:2 the theme verse. Pray the people of the Big Bend Baptist Church will feel a deep burden to confess sins that separate them from their God and will seek His face and hear His voice.

Wayne will preach on April 26th-29th during the revival. Pray as he seeks the Lord’s guidance concerning the words and messages he is to bring to the people.

-Tomorrow morning Wayne and the pastor of the Lawhawheni Baptist Church will meet with the family of the lady that died in March from TB. She had been instrumental in the start of the church and now the family wants to donate land to the church for their church building. This gift is another testimony and witness of this lady’s life to those in her community and family. Pray the meeting will go well and the Lord will be glorified in every decision made.

-Friday, April 30-May 5, Wayne will be in Jo’burg attending the workshop “Taking it to the Next Level.” This workshop is designed for Strategy Team Leaders and will discuss, brain storm, as well as ask/answer questions that will help develop strategy that will “take it to the next level.” Pray those attending especially Wayne, will learn and benefit from this workshop.

Wayne’s schedule this week includes working on our 2011 budget and a statistical report that is due besides nightly preaching at the Big Bend Revival. Pray he will get everything done before he leaves Friday for Jo’burg.

-We recently learned Johannes and Lindiwe Tfwala (former pastor of the Velebantfu Baptist Church who separated from wife last year when they couldn’t work out their differences) are back together and living on the farm between Nhlangano and Thunzini. We do not know the details but ask that you please pray this family will be able to work out their differences. Pray for all in the family who are suffering from various health issues and for the Lord to be the victor in this situation.

***Do You Know?

What goal-specific program of the 50’s and 60’s preceded Bold Mission Thrust as a pledge to strengthen and enlarge the missionary force?

-Continue to remember Wayne’s sister Patsy suffering from COPD and on oxygen. Pray also his brother’s (Terry) quarterly medical tests will continue to show his stage 4 cancer in remission. Pray Barbara’s brother-in-law, Gary Rutledge will soon be able to move around unassisted (herniated disc surgery in November) and for Barbara’s nephew-in-law’s mother diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

May 25-28 revival services will be held in the Lawhawheni community. The volunteer team from the Integrity Baptist Church will lead.

Pray the pastor will be encouraged as he serves the Lord in the Lawhawheni community. Pray for spiritual preparation for the special services in May and for true revival to touch the hearts of many Christians as well as the many lost Swazis in this area. Pray for strong follow-up after the completion of the revival services. May the Lord be glorified in Lawhawheni!!

--Continue to remember Ben and Matt from the Integrity Baptist Church as they prepare to come and minister in the Shiselweni and Lubumbo regions of Swaziland May 19-31. Besides the revival services at Lawhawheni the team will also conduct a baptism service on the 23rd of May at the New Hope Baptist Church. Bible studies for all ages are also being planned.

***Answer to Do You Know question:

Program of Advance, began under the administration of M. Theron Rankin. The goal of 1,750 missionaries and an annual budget of $10 million to underwrite their support was realized in less than 15 years.

IMB OFFICE OF PRAYER STRATEGY:

-The Directors of Finance from each of the four overseas missionary support centers will be in Richmond for the week of April 26-30. Please pray for wisdom and discernment as they meet to evaluate the past couple of months’ work, plan for the remainder of the year, and work on outstanding issues.

-Please continue to pray for IMB’s Presidential Search Committee as they seek God’s man to lead our organization.

WORLD CUP IN SOUTH AFRICA

June 11-July 11, 2010

Each week I will be sharing prayer requests for one of the 32 countries participating in the World Cup (Soccer). This week’s Country Focus is ITALY:

-Occultism and Satanism are widespread in Italy. 100,000 full-time magicians in Italy out-number Catholic priest three to one! Pray that Italians would know the Truth about the Almighty God.

-Pray for godly, humble and compassionate leaders in Italy who can be an example in their lifestyle as much as their words and inspire people to follow Jesus and love Him more.

-The need for expatriate missionaries is great but the attrition rate has been unacceptably high, with only 10% of foreign missionaries on average returning for a second term. Pray for more missionaries with spiritual stamina and emotional maturity.

(Information from The Ultimate Goal (TUG) a project of SASCOL and is the outreach initiative taking place during June and July 2010. TUG is a network of local and international churches, para-church organizations and ministries all working together on one common goal: to bring hope and change to South Africa.)

Check out www.worldsoccerjourneys.com.

CELL NUMBERS AND EMAIL ADDRESSES:

Everyone in Swaziland added 7 to the beginning of their cell number effective April 1st. Please note:

Wayne: (268) 7602-0551

Barbara (268) 7619-7295

Also, please discontinue the use of our africaonline address: Send emails to: Wayne-wmyers@shelbywireless.net and Barbara-swazibam@shelbywireless.net

Thank You!!

Myers Weekly Letter

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO STEVE ALLEN TODAY (20th of April) ON HIS BIRTHDAY!! Pray his special day will indeed be special!

You will find in your “closet of prayer” what you frequently lose when you are out in the world. The more you visit it, the more you will want to return. If you are faithful to your secret place, it will become your closest friend and bring you much comfort. The tears shed there bring cleansing. –Thomas A. Kempis

We could see from our room the white foamy waves of the Indian Ocean, and hear as the waves crushed onto the beach at the Natalia resort in Durban, the meeting place of our annual missionary training event/prayer retreat April 16-19. Our time together began on Friday evening and ended officially Sunday evening. During that time we heard of the work and ministries of other missionaries, shared prayer requests and prayed together, heard and experienced the preaching of God’s Word, were given brief updates on the restructuring of the IMB, sang praises together, ate together and enjoyed wonderful fellowship together. It was truly refreshing and enjoyable to be with missionary colleagues. Thank you for praying for this special event. Please pray for all the missionaries of the Southern Section (Sub-Saharan African Affinity Group) as they minister in various areas and with many different people groups. Please encourage them through your prayer support!!

We arrived in Tshaneni yesterday afternoon around 3:30pm. Our dogs were hiding in the garage due to thunderstorms on Sunday night and during the day on Monday. Upon closer inspection this morning we noticed a small tree had fallen on one section of the new fence on the property. We are glad it fell on the fence and not the house but are sorry to see the damage to the fence. Pray the fence will soon be repaired.

Update concerning our crate:
We were officially contacted Friday that our crate had left Jo’burg with a company from Swaziland and should be in Mbabane. Pray as plans are made to get the crate from Mbabane to Tshaneni hopefully this week!!

But your iniquities have separated you from your God; And your sins have hidden His face from you so that He will not hear. Isaiah 59:2 The Big Bend Baptist Church has scheduled revival services for April 26-May 8. Repentence is the theme and Isaiah 59:2 the theme verse. Pray the people of the Big Bend Baptist Church will feel a deep burden to confess sins that separate them from their God and will seek His face and hear His voice. Wayne will preach on April 26th-29th during the revival. Pray as he seeks the Lord’s guidance concerning the words and messages he is to bring to the people.

-April 30-May 5, Wayne will be in Jo’burg attending the workshop “Taking it to the Next Level.” This workshop is designed for Strategy Team Leaders and will discuss, brain storm, as well as ask/answer questions that will help develop strategy that will “take it to the next level.” Pray those attending especially Wayne, will learn and benefit from this workshop.


***Do You Know?
Who was the first executive director of the Foreign Mission Board?

We are thankful to report Lisa Warren’s father, Lloyd Clairborne has improved greatly from his stroke of a year ago and the Clairbornes have moved back to their home. Mr. and Mrs. Clairborne were staying with the Warrens during his rehabilitation. We praise the Lord for this wonderful news!! Pray Mr. Clairborne will completely recover from his stroke. Pray for the Warren family as they continue to seek the Lord’s will and direction for their future ministries.

-Continue to remember Wayne’s sister Patsy suffering from COPD and on oxygen. Pray also his brother’s (Terry) quarterly medical tests will continue to show his stage 4 cancer in remission. Pray Barbara’s brother-in-law, Gary Rutledge will soon be able to move around unassisted (herniated disc surgery in November) and for Barbara’s nephew-in-law’s mother diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

May 25-28 revival services will be held in the Lawhawheni community. The volunteer team from the Integrity Baptist Church will lead.
Pray the pastor will be encouraged as he serves the Lord in the Lawhawheni community. Pray for spiritual preparation for the special services in May and for true revival to touch the hearts of many Christians as well as the many lost Swazis in this area. Pray for strong follow-up after the completion of the revival services. May the Lord be glorified in Lawhawheni!!

--Continue to remember Ben and Matt from the Integrity Baptist Church as they prepare to come and minister in the Shiselweni and Lubumbo regions of Swaziland May 19-31. Besides the revival services at Lawhawheni the team will also conduct a baptism service on the 23rd of May at the New Hope Baptist Church. Bible studies for all ages are also being planned.


***Answer to Do You Know question:
James B. Taylor, a former Baptist minister in Richmond, Va., who served 1846-1871.


IMB OFFICE OF PRAYER STRATEGY:
-The upcoming Field Personnel Orientation, April 19-June 19, will equip 64 adults and 47 children for their new roles as IMB missionaries. Pray for them today as they make preparation for their interim journey to Richmond, Va., for orientation and then later to their place of ministry.
-The National Missionary Parent Fellowship is held every two years and is being hosted on April 23-25 by the missionary parents in South Carolina. Please pray that these parents will have safe travel to and from the retreat and that they will find meaning and enjoyment in the worship, the missions messages and the fellowship.

WORLD CUP IN SOUTH AFRICA
June 11-July 11, 2010
Beginning this week I will be sharing prayer requests for one of the 32 countries participating in the World Cup (Soccer). This week’s Country Focus is SOUTH AFRICA:
-Crime rates continue to rise in South Africa. Violent crimes are commonplace and the murder rate is seven times that of the USA. Pray that Christians would be able to make an impact in this hurting society.
-An AIDS epidemic is ripping the nation apart. 1,200 victims die each day and nearly half a million children are orphaned. Pray for effective solutions to slow down this terrible trend.
-Pray that there would be strength, unity and vision for the Church of South Africa. Pray that Christians would be able to speak into every level of society, bring truth and hope.
(Information from The Ultimate Goal (TUG) a project of SASCOL and is the outreach initiative taking place during June and July 2010. TUG is a network of local and international churches, para-church organizations and ministries all working together on one common goal: to bring hope and change to South Africa.)
Check out www.worldsoccerjourneys.com.

NEW CELL NUMBERS:
Everyone in Swaziland will now add 7 to the beginning of their cell number effective April 1st.
Wayne: (268) 7602-0551

Monday, April 12, 2010

Myers Weekly Letter

The small building being used for a church was tucked away along a dusty road off the main highway. It was further back than I remembered from my last visit and I thought we would never arrive. When we did, we saw a young girl standing in the doorway looking to see who was in the vehicle. When she saw us she laughed and ran back into the building. We had collected the pastor and so we joined the small group of children in the Lawhawheni Baptist Church. It was a cloudy and cool day and I wondered how many would come. Usually on these types of days the attendance is lower than usual and yesterday was no exception. By the time we began Sunday School there were 11 people, 6 children, 1 youth and 4 adults (counting Wayne and myself). Before Sunday School began the pastor had voiced his discouragement over the lack of attendance and interest of the people. I think the term “demon possessed” was used to describe the climate of the community. I could almost feel his “let down” when he again saw so few in attendance. During the teaching time, five more came into the church. After Sunday School we sang a few songs and then Wayne was asked to come preach the Word. During the service the children were anything but attentive. They had not been taught respect for God’s house and the preaching of His Word. When the service was completed announcements were given and everyone left the church to make their way back to their homes.
May 25-28 revival services will be held in the Lawhawheni community. The volunteer team from the Integrity Baptist Church will lead.
Pray this pastor will be encouraged as he serves the Lord in the Lawhawheni community. Pray for spiritual preparation for the special services in May and for true revival to touch the hearts of many Christians as well as the many lost Swazis in this area. Pray for strong follow-up after the completion of the revival services. May the Lord be glorified in Lawhawheni!!

--Continue to remember Ben and Matt from the Integrity Baptist Church as they prepare to come and minister in the Shiselweni and Lubumbo regions of Swaziland May 19-31. Besides the revival services at Lawhawheni the team will also conduct a baptism service on the 23rd of May at the New Hope Baptist Church. Bible studies for all ages are also being planned.

Update concerning our crate:
We asked you last week to pray for the arrival of our small crate we packed before leaving the states. I am glad to say we received word the crate is at our Baptist Mission Office in Johannesburg. Wayne is making plans with a company in Swaziland that travels to Jo’burg weekly to bring the crate to Swaziland. Pray the company will be able to bring the crate back to Mbabane without any problems. Pray we will be able to transport from Mbabane to Tshaneni.

***Do You Know?
What convention was the forerunner of the Southern Baptist Convention?

--Friday, we will travel to Durban, South Africa to attend our annual missionary training meeting/prayer retreat (April 16-19). Our retreat’s theme is “Determined Devotion.” During this year’s retreat each team is to provide a 10-15 minute prayer focus. Pray as we prepare to present this prayer focus. Pray also for a great time of fellowship with missionary colleagues. We will return to Swaziland on Monday the 19th.

-April 30-May 5, Wayne will be in Jo’burg attending the workshop “Taking it to the Next Level.” This workshop is designed for Strategy Team Leaders and will discuss, brain storm, as well as ask/answer questions that will help develop strategy that will “take it to the next level.” Pray those attending especially Wayne, will learn and benefit from this workshop.

-Continue to remember Wayne’s sister Patsy suffering from COPD and on oxygen. Pray also his brother’s (Terry) quarterly medical tests will continue to show his stage 4 cancer in remission. Pray Barbara’s brother-in-law, Gary Rutledge will soon be able to move around unassisted (herniated disc surgery in November) and for Barbara’s nephew-in-law’s mother diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
**Pray for King Mswati on his birthday, April 19th. Pray the strongholds that keep him, his wives and children from accepting Christ will be broken and they will commit their lives to serving Jesus.
***Answer to Do You Know question:
The Triennial Convention, so called because it was to meet every three years. Its full name was the General Missionary Convention of the Baptist Denomination in the United States of America for Foreign Missions. It was organized in 1814 by 33 delegates from 11 states.

IMB OFFICE OF PRAYER STRATEGY:
-The upcoming Field Personnel Orientation, April 19-June 19, will equip 64 adults and 47 children for their new roles as IMB missionaries. Pray for them today as they make preparation for their interim journey to Richmond, Va., for orientation and then later to their place of ministry.
-Continue to pray for IMB’s Presidential Search Committee as they seek God’s man to lead our organization.

WORLD CUP IN SOUTH AFRICA
June 11-July 11, 2010
The countdown on April 1 was 72 days until the opening of the World Cup 2010. The slogan for the World Cup is “Ke Nako,” which means, “It is time.” In South Africa, nationals believe that is time for Africa to be recognized not just in soccer, but globally as a presence. Many of the stadiums are designed to display an African theme. The Soccer Stadium in Johannesburg is designed to look like a “calabash” (an African pot) sitting on a pit of fire, symbolic of the melting pot of African cultures being naturally brought together. As nations gather together in these different stadiums throughout South Africa, forming a “calabash” of the nations, pray that this will be the time that many will hear the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Pray that God will use South Africa for His purposes, to be a blessing to Him and to be a blessing to the nations of the world.
Check out
www.worldsoccerjourneys.com.

PRAY FOR PEACE:
Most Holy Lord, today our news is filled with wars and rumors of wars, nationalist conflicts and worrisome disputes. We see turmoil in Pakistan, Turkey, Russia, the Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, Iraq, Kyrgyzstan and so many more places. We thank you, Lord that Jesus warned us that such things would happen, even though the end is yet to come. Help us, therefore, to do as He said and not be alarmed, but know that all matters are in Your control. We rest in You today. Amen
www.presidentialprayerteam.org

Lord, what a risk you took loving us. Give us the wisdom and courage to risk loving you in return. Amen (Patsy Clairmont)

NEW CELL NUMBERS:
Everyone in Swaziland will now add 7 to the beginning of their cell number effective April 1st.
Wayne: (268) 7602-0551
Barbara (268) 7619-7295

Even after 2,000 years of Christian influence, more than 1.5 billion people are still missing out on the opportunity to hear the Gospel. They are hidden behind cultural, physical and language barriers to a Gospel witness. Join us and pray for a people group that no one is trying to reach.

Myers Weekly Letter

There’s a flag flying high in the castle of my heart, in the castle of my heart, in the castle of my heart. There’s a flag flying high in the castle of my heart, the King lives in there.
Chorus: Fly it high, fly it high let the whole world know, let the whole world know, let the whole world know. Fly it high, fly it high let the whole world, the King lives in there.

Do you know this song? (A good old Baptist song.) I didn’t until Annah Thwala taught the children during our National Easter Services (Friday-Sunday). Annah was taught the song by the volunteer team from the Atlantic Association that conducted a children’s camp in the Shiselweni region in January. Annah made the flags and every child waved their flag as loudly they sang. During Easter morning service, the children led the whole congregation in singing of a flag flying high in the castle of my heart. What a blessing!!

The entire National Swazi Baptist Easter services were a blessing!! One leader remarked, “This is our first Easter in two years!” The last two years problems have occurred when certain individuals aggressively promoted speaking in tongues and the prosperity gospel. But, this year there was a spirit of unity, fellowship and a desire for everyone to work together. My heart was touched more than once by the camaraderie that was evident. Lives were moved as Al Jordan (missionary covering for the Allens while they are on stateside assignment) preached. Sessions were geared toward learning more about Baptist polity and the theme of the children’s program was “New Beginnings.” Thank you for praying for this special yearly event. The “Spirit of Easter” definitely came to this year’s services.

Monday we were able to move most of our belongings from one house on the Swazican farm to another house 2 ½ kilometers away but still on the farm. It was long day but by its end we had a bed to sleep in!! We still have quite a few boxes to unpack, so please pray we will be able to get quite a bit of unpacking done this week. Pray there will be a place for all of our “stuff”.

NEW CELL NUMBERS:
Everyone in Swaziland will now add 7 to the beginning of their cell number.
Wayne: (268) 7602-0551
Barbara (268) 7619-7295

Also, the small crate we packed before leaving the states in December arrived in South Africa the middle of February. In March all the needed paper work was submitted. Pray we will soon receive our crate that contains special mementos and other goodies from “home.”

***Do You Know?
What country has been served the longest by Southern Baptist missionaries?

We will be attending our annual missionary training meeting/prayer retreat April 16-19, 2010 Durban, South Africa. The theme is “Determined Devotion.” During this year’s retreat each team is to provide a 10-15 minute prayer focus. Pray as we prepare to present this prayer focus. Pray also for a great time of fellowship with missionary colleagues.

-April 30-May 5, Wayne will be in Jo’burg attending the workshop “Taking it to the Next Level.” This workshop is designed for Strategy Team Leaders and will discuss, brain storm, as well as ask/answer questions that will help develop strategy that will “take it to the next level.” Pray those attending especially Wayne, will learn and benefit from this workshop.

--A two member volunteer team from the Integrity Baptist Church (South Roanoke Baptist Association, NC) is scheduled to work in the Lubumbo and Shiselweni regions May 19-31. Pray for Ben and Matt as they prepare to come and minister in Swaziland. Pray for their spiritual preparation to reach the lost and encourage believers.

--Continue to remember Wayne’s sister Patsy suffering from COPD and on oxygen. Pray also his brother’s (Terry) quarterly medical tests will continue to show his stage 4 cancer in remission. Pray Barbara’s brother-in-law, Gary Rutledge will soon be able to move around unassisted (herniated disc surgery in November) and for Barbara’s nephew-in-law’s mother diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

***Answer to Do You Know question:
Nigeria, entered in 1850. In fact, Nigeria was Southern Baptists’ only field in Africa for 100 years.

IMB OFFICE OF PRAYER STRATEGY:
Thank you very much for your faith-filled prayers for needs relative to the Haiti and Chile earthquakes and aftershocks. These have been trying times for our personnel and the peoples among whom they minister. Please continue to pray for all of them as they continue to be buffeted by aftershocks and resultant stress and anxiety. Pray also for relief efforts by our missionary personnel and their partners. May many people come into the kingdom as a result of their efforts.

WORLD CUP IN SOUTH AFRICA
June 11-July 11, 2010
Check out
www.worldsoccerjourneys.com, the newest Web site that has been launched by the Africa Support Center Communication Team. Our primary goals are to focus on the ministries of our personnel, other GCCs, and volunteer teams and to generate prayer support for the urban centers of South Africa, many of which are venues for World Cup matches. In addition to virtual prayerwalks and regularly updated prayer requests, site visitors will find EV tools, details about projects and opportunities for service, and even information about soccer and the World Cup!

PRAY FOR PEACE:
NATO forces will launch a major offensive in the Kandahar region during April, seeking to clear Taliban strongholds while protecting the local population and establishing Afghan control. Pray for our military personnel in all branches of the Armed Forces, and for their families awaiting their return.
www.presidentialprayerteam.org

RODEO COWBOY CHURCH PRAYER TEAM:
Easter Sunday the church returned to the Red Barn Arena. Services began with the church’s first baptism!!
PRAYER CONCERNS:
· The Spencer Magnet newspaper wants to do an article on the church. Pray everything will be done to glorify the Lord.
· Pray the core group will come together.
· Pray more cowboys and cowgirls will be reached for the gospel.
· Pray for a sponsoring church.
· Pray for the first VBS, July 5-9, 2010.
Thanks for praying,
Jim Carpenter, Pastor
Cowboy Rodeo Church, Mt. Washington, Ky.

Even after 2,000 years of Christian influence, more than 1.5 billion people are still missing out on the opportunity to hear the Gospel. They are hidden behind cultural, physical and language barriers to a Gospel witness. Join us and pray for a people group that no one is trying to reach.

Swazi Team Monthly Prayer Calendar

Thursday April 1: Today begins the National Easter Services April 1-4. The venue is the Mbekelweni Lutheran High School in the Manzini Region. This yearly special event begins the day before Good Friday and ends on Easter Sunday with approximately 200 people attending. Al Jordan is the preacher for the event and will be speaking six times in four days.
Pray for Al as he shares the Resurrection story during this year’s Easter Services. Pray those attending will be spiritually renewed!!

Friday April 2: GOOD FRIDAY!!
Pray for the Swazi people steeped so deep in bondage to their traditional beliefs. Praise God for the many prayer partners and volunteer teams that give of themselves and their time to intercede on behalf of and who minister to, our team and the people of Swaziland.

Saturday April 3: March 19th, Al and Belinda Jordan arrived in Swaziland to cover the ministry for the Allens while they are on stateside assignment March 26-the end of September. Pray the Jordans’ adjustment to Swaziland will be quick and easy. Pray for their reuniting with Swazi friends.

Sunday April 4: EASTER SUNDAY!!
Up from the grave He arose,
With a mighty triumph o’er His foes;
He arose a Victor from the dark domain,
And He lives forever with His saints to reign,
He arose! He arose! Hallelujah Christ arose!
(Robert Lowry)
Pray the Swazis will understand the significance of the resurrection. May they accept the victory found in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Monday April 5: April 5-10 the Allen family will travel to the International Learning Center (Rockville, Va.) attending their stateside conference. Pray for the family as their time of orientation and debriefing will be beneficial and encouraging.

Tuesday April 6: In March Wayne and Barbara Myers made their second move since September in Tshaneni. Hopefully they will not have to move again in the next couple of years. Pray the Myers will be able to get settled and continue with the ministry.

Wednesday April 7: In February the Vuvulane and Mafucula Baptist Churches conducted baptism services. Three were baptized at Vuvulane and eight at Mafucula. Living in a culture that does not promote Christian principles is hard for new Christians. There are few encouragers. Please pray for those who were obedient to the Lord’s teachings will stay faithful no matter the pressures that may come from others to follow Swazi culture and traditions.

Thursday April 8: Monday March 8th the Swazi Team prayer calendar requested you to pray for the healing of a lady of Luwhawheni diagnosed with TB. We are sorry to say she died on the 6th of March. During the funeral her sister shared that because of the lady’s belief in Jesus, there was always a light around the homestead. Her witness to others was one of love and the desire to see many come to know Jesus. The sister was thankful salvation had come to this lady’s house. Pray many in this family will come to know Jesus because of the witness of their sister.

Friday April 9: For many in Swaziland TB is a symptom of the HIV virus that will eventually become full-blown AIDS. Pray for the many in Swaziland suffering from AIDS. Pray the unsaved will have a chance to accept Jesus as their Savior before death comes.

Saturday April 10: Lisa Warren’s father’s physical therapy ends on the 10th of April. The family praises the Lord for the significant improvement He has granted. Pray for Mr. Claiborne’s continued rehabilitation, health and strength. The end of April marks a year since his stroke.

Sunday April 11: Pray for Steve and Monica Allen today as they share with the Oak Grove Baptist Church (am) and the First Baptist Church Havre De Grace (pm). Pray as the Allens share how God is blessing the work in the Hhohho and Manzini regions of Swaziland.

Monday April 12: Continue to remember Wayne’s sister Patsy suffering from COPD and on oxygen. Pray also his brother’s (Terry) quarterly tests will continue to show his stage 4 cancer in remission. Pray Barbara’s brother-in-law, Gary Rutledge will soon be able to move around unassisted (herniated disc surgery in November).

Tuesday April 13: Pray for Steve Allen today as he speaks at a school in Maryland. Pray for a greater understanding by the students about Swaziland and the need for Christ to reach the hearts of the Swazi people.

Wednesday April 14: August 2009 the Warren family left Swaziland due to Lisa’s father’s stroke. They arrived in 2008 with great excitement and desire to serve among the Swazi people. Their hearts still have a burden for the many lost and the many dying of AIDS. Today is Bert’s birthday. Pray Bert’s special day will indeed be special. Pray for the family as they continue to seek the Lord’s will and direction for their future ministries.

***Do You Know???
What are the main intermediate channels for Southern Baptist International mission funding?

Thursday April 15: Pray for the First Baptist Church, Belton, Texas preparing to lead the National Youth Camp in August. Ask the Lord to provide wisdom in the preparation of lessons and activities. May each be spiritually prepared this awesome work.

Friday April 16: Today the Myers leave for Durban to attend their annual missionary training meeting (2010 Durban Retreat) beginning today and ending on Monday. The theme is “Determined Devotion.” During this year’s retreat each team is to provide a 10-15 minute prayer focus. Pray for the Myers as they prepare spiritually for this meeting. Pray for a great time of fellowship with missionary colleagues.

Saturday April 17: A few months ago, an unmarried presenter for the True Love Waits message confessed she had a baby boy in October 2009. This young lady vowed she would stay pure before marriage and it was very disappointing to see this trend continue. Not only does this behavior damage the Christian witness but the risk of becoming HIV positive is very strong. Please pray as the trends of pregnancy out of wedlock, several sexual partners, more than one wife and relationships and a disregard for God’s Word continue to dominate the lives of both Christians and non-Christian Swazis. Pray for a spiritual change throughout the country.

Sunday April 18: Imagine every Sunday arriving to church to find no one to lead the services or preach the sermon. The faithful few that continue to attend every Sunday try to encourage others to come and support the church. Youth and children programs suffer or are non-existent. Pray existing Baptist churches without pastoral leadership will stay strong and faithful in their work with the Lord. Pray for unity among churches as they reach out to their communities.

Monday April 19: Pray for King Mswati today on his birthday. Pray the strongholds that keep him, his wives and children from accepting Christ will be broken and they will commit their lives to serving Jesus.

Tuesday April 20: Pray for Steve Allen today on his birthday!! J
Pray for an easy transition for the Allen family during their stateside assignment (March 26-end of September), leaving their “home” to visit “home.”

Wednesday April 21: The Muslim creed simply states “There is no god but Allah and Mohammed is His prophet.” By saying “there is no god apart from God and Mohammed is the messenger of God” the believer announces his or her faith in all God’s messengers and the scripture they brought. Muslim is a growing faith in Swaziland. Please pray the peace of God will dwell in the heart of the Swazi people and the Muslim faith will not be allowed to gain strength. Pray that ordinary daily events will be used of God to point Muslims to Him.

Thursday April 22: A two-member volunteer team from the Integrity Baptist Church (South Roanoke Asso. In NC) is scheduled to work in the Lubumbo and Shiselweni regions May 19-31. Pray for Ben and Matt as they prepare to come and minister in Swaziland. Pray for their spiritual preparation to reach the lost and encourage believers.

Friday April 23: The biggest event coming up in South Africa is the FIFA World Cup 2010 that starts June 11th and ends July 11th. Over 32 countries have qualified to send their football (soccer) teams to South Africa. Please pray for the many events that Christians all over the country are planning to reach out to those who are coming this way or reach out to South Africans. Pray for safety for everyone that comes. Pray all the events planned as outreach will glorify the Lord.

Saturday April 24: SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA UNENGAGED PEOPLES: A recent trip to northern Mozambique served to renew a sense of urgency to pray for the many peoples in this part of Africa who have had little to no exposure to the Gospel. The Makonde is one group of people for whom we are asking the Father to send willing workers to prepare the fields, plant the seeds of Gospel and to lead to the harvest. Please join us in asking the Lord of the harvest to send someone to come and work with the Makonde, in the district of Mecula in northern Mozambique.

Sunday April 25: The New Hope Baptist Church has been without a pastor for over three years. A faithful leader tries to keep the church group together and meeting but he does not feel led to be a pastor. Please pray the Lord will provide a pastor for the New Hope Baptist Church. Pray the faithful will continue to be fruitful and the adults will strive to teach the youth and children the ways of the Lord.

Monday April 26: Retired missionary, June Mason will minister in Swaziland June 28-July 6. June served in women’s ministries many years in Zimbabwe and was also a part of the Swazi Team a short time prior to her retirement. June will lead Bible studies for women of our Swazi Baptist churches. Pray for June as she prepares to come to Swaziland and minister with the Swazi Baptist women.

Tuesday April 27: Steve Allen will be speaking during the chapel service at the Clear Creek Bible College in Pineville, Ky. Pray those attending chapel will gain a deeper knowledge of the needs of the Swazi people as well as deeper sense of calling involved in ministering overseas in different cultures.

Wednesday April 28: Last year during an archaeological dig in Israel, Steve Allen met Dr. Ray Lucas. Tonight Steve will share with the church in which Dr. Lucas is pastor. Pray for Steve as he shares about the work with the Swazi people the Lord has given the Allens. Pray this time will be spiritually uplifting for everyone.

Thursday April 29: PRAYER FOR AMERICA
Father, thank You for the United States and its government. I pray for the president, the national and local government, the judges, the policemen, the business leaders and all those who are in leadership positions in this country. Please protect them from the evil that is in the world and keep them safe and free from all harm. www.presidentialprayerteam.org

Friday April 30: Today Wayne Myers leaves for Jo’burg to attend the workshop “Taking it to the Next Level” May 1-5. The workshop is for Strategy Team Leaders and will discuss, brain storm, as well as ask/answer questions that will help develop strategy that will “take it to the next level.” Pray those attending especially Wayne, will learn and benefit from this workshop.

***Answer to do you know question:
The Cooperative Program initiated in the mid-20s to channel funds to the various Southern Baptist agencies and the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering which traces its origins back to 1888.

Myers Weekly Letter

Today Palm Sunday, celebrates Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem and the beginning of the last week of His life. As we begin this Easter season, may all of our friends, neighbors and family members seek to have the Savior of the world dwell in their hearts.

This past week we have been in the midst of intense packing and moving. For the last three days Wayne and Mandla (our gardener) have been carting boxes and any type of furniture they could handle to the house in which we are moving. Wednesday the walls were washed down and the floors were mopped and polished. The drapes/curtains have been hung and we are down to the “last minute” packing. Monday we plan to have everything moved. It will be a very busy and long day.
Pray for us as we move from one house to another. There is cleaning to be done in this house and cleaning still to be done in the house in which we are moving, pray all the cleaning will be done so the unpacking can begin.
We look forward to the completion of this move and getting back to some sort of routine. Pray we will be able to get settled and back to normalcy!!
It has been extremely hot the last couple of days and has been hard on us workers. Pray temperatures will be pleasant and idea for a moving day!!

We did receive an answer to prayer this week. With this move we have been concerned with the lack of storage space available. Thursday Wayne was told two additional rooms were available to us. The rooms are located behind the house. We praise the Lord for his continued provisions!!

--Steve and Monica Allen (Lacie and Nathan) left for the states Friday March 26th for their six month stateside assignment. The first part of their time will be spent in North Carolina and the last three months in West Palm Beach, Florida. We will miss them and do wish their time stateside will be refreshing and relaxing. Pray for transition for the whole family as they leave “home” to visit “home.”

--Continue to pray Al and Belinda Jordan’s adjustment to Swaziland will be quick and easy. Pray for their reuniting with Swazi friends.

Please continue to pray for the National Swazi Baptist Easter Services April 1-4, 2010. These special services will take place at the Mpolonjeni High School in Manzini. Sessions for adults and youth will be provided as well as a two-day program and evening worship services for the children. Al Jordan will be the services’ preacher. Pray these services will reflect the Resurrection message and story. Pray those attending will be blessed and uplifted from the daily sessions and evening worship services. Pray for Al Jordan as he shares six times during the four days. May the Lord be truly blessed and glorified during this year’s National Swazi Baptist Easter Services.

Friday April 2, 2010 is GOOD FRIDAY!!
Pray for the Swazi people steeped so deep in bondage to their traditional beliefs. Praise God for the many prayer partners and volunteer teams that give of themselves and their time to intercede on behalf of and who minister to, our team and the people of Swaziland.

Sunday April 4, 2010 we celebrate EASTER SUNDAY!!
Up from the grave He arose,
With a mighty triumph o’er His foes;
He arose a Victor from the dark domain,
And He lives forever with His saints to reign,
He arose! He arose! Hallelujah Christ arose! (Robert Lowry)
Pray the Swazis will understand the significance of the resurrection. May they accept the victory found in our Lord Jesus Christ.

***Do You Know?
When and where did the first Southern Baptist Convention organize, and what was its single purpose?

--A two member volunteer team from the Integrity Baptist Church (South Roanoke Baptist Association, NC) is scheduled to work in the Lubumbo and Shiselweni regions May 19-31. Pray for Ben and Matt as they prepare to come and minister in Swaziland. Pray for their spiritual preparation to reach the lost and encourage believers.

--Continue to remember Wayne’s sister Patsy suffering from COPD and on oxygen. Pray also his brother’s (Terry) quarterly medical tests will continue to show his stage 4 cancer in remission. Pray Barbara’s brother-in-law, Gary Rutledge will soon be able to move around unassisted (herniated disc surgery in November) and for Barbara’s nephew-in-law’s mother diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

IMB PRAYER REQUEST:
The IMB’s Annual Staff Retreat is March 30-31. Pray this retreat at the International Learning Center will be refreshing and spiritually inspiring as the staff gather for worship and prayer.

We will be attending our annual missionary training meeting/prayer retreat April 16-19, 2010 Durban, South Africa. The theme is “Determined Devotion.” During this year’s retreat each team is to provide a 10-15 minute prayer focus. Pray as we present a Swazi Team/people prayer focus. Pray also for a great time of fellowship with missionary colleagues.

WORLD CUP IN SOUTH AFRICA
June 11-July 11, 2010
Check out
http://www.worldsoccerjourneys.com/, the newest Web site that has been launched by the Africa Support Center Communication Team. Our primary goals are to focus on the ministries of our personnel, other GCCs, and volunteer teams and to generate prayer support for the urban centers of South Africa, many of which are venues for World Cup matches. In addition to virtual prayerwalks and regularly updated prayer requests, site visitors will find EV tools, details about projects and opportunities for service, and even information about soccer and the World Cup!

PRAY FOR PEACE:
-More than 100 suspected militants linked to Al-Qaeda have been arrested in Saudia Arabia, including people from Saudi, Ethiopia, Yemen, Somalia, Bangladesh and Eritrea, along with computers, cameras, cell phones and weapons.
Pray for foreign agents who work under cover against terror in all its forms.

***Answer to Do You Know question:
-May 1845, First Baptist Church, Augusta, Ga;
-to promote international and home missions. The preamble speaks of : “…carrying into effect the benevolent intentions of our constituents, by organizing a plan for eliciting, combining and directing the energies of the whole denomination and one sacred effort for the propagation of the Gospel.”

Even after 2,000 years of Christian influence, more than 1.5 billion people are still missing out on the opportunity to hear the Gospel. They are hidden behind cultural, physical and language barriers to a Gospel witness. Join us and pray for a people group that no one is trying to reach.
prayerthreads.imb.org - (888) 462-7729