Sunday May 1: Pray for different baptism services that need to occur before the weather turns too cold. (Baptism is held outside). The Allens have rescheduled some due to late rains. Pray the Victory Baptist Church will be able to conduct their baptism service today!!
Monday May 2: Thank you for praying for the strikes scheduled April 13, 14 and 15 in Swaziland. Protestors were encouraged to converge on the city of Manzini to protest the extravagant spending of the monarchy as well as their desire to elect own leaders and officials. Soldiers, policemen and protestors were gearing up for a big showdown. Thank goodness it did not occur. There were incidents of police and soldiers tangling with the protestors. The city of Manzini was tightly blocked so outsiders could not enter to join in the protesting. This displeased the unions and they have vowed that another strike will be called. Nothing was really solved and discontentment continues. Pray the political situation in Swaziland will reach a peaceful solution.
Tuesday May 3: Lacie Allen returns to school for Term 2. Pray she adjusts quickly into the school routine and continues to do well in Grade 1.
Wednesday May 4: The Swazi Team praises the Lord on word that the Minister of Finance has given the okay for the 648 In-Home Care Kits (BGR buckets) to enter the country tax free!! Presently BGR is determining the best method to get the buckets to Swaziland. Pray the buckets will be easily transported from Durban, South Africa to Swaziland as quickly as possible. Pray for the Swazi Team as they seek to train our church members on the use of the buckets with AIDS victims and their families.
Thursday May 5: Praise God for the past few months of discipleship training at Peace Baptist Church. The Allens ask prayer for this faithful group of women that have led this church mostly on their own since 2002. Pray for God to raise up a faithful man of integrity to lead this church!
Friday May 6: April 21-24 the Swazi Baptist National Easter Services met in Manzini with over 150 attending. The agenda included convention reports, Bible studies, a full-scale children’s program, worship, testimonies and wonderful music. Most attendees arrived on Thursday evening with their blankets, bags and Bibles. They found their “sleeping spot” and prepared for three nights and four days of sharing and fellowshipping with members of approximately 25 of the 30 Swazi Baptist churches. Plenty of laughter and singing could be heard throughout the “camp”! Pray a spirit of unity among the Swazi Baptist churches and Swazi Baptist Convention will continue. Pray the ‘Spirit of Easter’ will be with us all year long!!
Saturday May 7: 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 2011 Easter services. Pray for a time of unity and consensus.
Sunday May 8: Mothers’ Day!!
Dear Lord, I do not ask that thou should’st give me some high work of thine,
some noble calling or wondrous task;
Give me a little hand to hold in mine:
Give me a little child to point the way over the strange, sweet path that leads to thee.
Give me two shining eyes thy face to see.
The only crown I ask, dear Lord, to wear is this:
that I may teach my little child.
I do not ask that I may ever stand the wise, the worthy, or the great;
I only ask that softly, hand in hand, my child and I may enter at the gate. (Author Unknown)
Pray for godly mothers in the USA, Swaziland, Africa and throughout the world. May each mother’s actions and thoughts reflect the heart of the loving God and Savior.
Monday May 9: In March the Mpembakati Baptist Church was officially granted land for a church building. A knot was ceremoniously tied in the tall grass to mark the spot. Pray for this church as the congregation moves ahead with the construction of their church building.
Tuesday May 10: Nathan Allen returns to school today for Term 2. Pray he will continue to enjoy school and have great times with children his own age.
Wednesday May 11: “Although our family and mission team are excited and blessed with the various summer missionaries, volunteer teams and short-term missionaries coming to serve with us in Swaziland, pray our family (Allens) will balance family and ministry well in the months ahead. Pray for our children (Lacie and Nathan) especially during this busy season and for us (Steve and Monica) as parents to be sensitive to their needs at all times.”
Thursday May 12: The Luwhawhaweni Baptist Church recently lost one of its original members. She was HIV positive and suffered a stroke. She always had a smile and even though she walked with a slight limp (from a previous stroke) she regularly attended church and Friday Bible study. She will be missed. Pray for the family of this lady (34 years old with three children) as they deal with their loss. Pray for the Luwhawhaweni Baptist Church that continues to lose members to the AIDS pandemic.
Friday May 13: For the last few months prayer has been requested for the start of a Bible study in the community of MaCethuka (approximately 5 kms from the Vuvulane Baptist Church). It has been difficult to meet with this group (who requested the Bible study) for various reasons. Pray Satan will not succeed in keeping this Bible study from beginning. Pray the Lord will be the victor.
Saturday May 14: The Shiselweni Baptist Association meets today. Continue to pray for this association that strives to meet together for encouragement and unity. There are 9 Swazi Baptist churches in this region.
Sunday May 15: Kym Pennington, True Love Waits International consultant returns to Swaziland today to lead three three-day True Love Waits Trainings,; 16-18 in Mbabane, 19-21 in Manzini and 23-25 in the Shiselweni or North Lubumbo region. Pray for Kym as she leads these three training events. Pray for the Swazi Team as they encourage possible attendees and prepare for these events.
Monday May 16: We never know what to expect the first time we begin a Bible study or new work but praise the Lord for over 100 people waiting to hear the truth of God’s Word from Steve Allen in the Ngowane area! Pray for God to continue opening doors in this new community and praise God that the indvuna and community leaders gave their blessings for the Bible study to begin.
Tuesday May 17: The children gathered in the room ready to sing, study and have fun. Laughter could still be heard even after the teacher began talking. There is so much to teach these children and so much for them to learn about Jesus, the Bible, Christian living and church life. The task must begin when they are young so they can develop into strong committed Swazi Christian leaders. Pray the 30 Swazi Baptist churches will take seriously the responsibility of teaching and training their children. May each Swazi Baptist church have a strong children’s program.
Wednesday May 18: Please pray salvation will come to the house of the King of Swaziland, his wives and children. Pray true revival will take place in the country.
Thursday May 19: For years missionary Barbara Myers and several Swazis have worked to translate from English to siSwati adult, youth, older children, children and beginner Sunday School materials. In 2005 siSwati children and beginner’s Sunday School books were printed and are currently being used in our Swazi Baptist churches. Pray for Barbara as she strives to bring this big project to a satisfying end. Pray these materials will also be printed in book form that will easily be accessable to the Swazi Baptist churches.
Friday May 20: SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN UNENGAGED PEOPLES: The Subia of Namibia live in the far northeastern corner of the country, an area called the Caprivi Strip. Farming is the mainstay of their economy but they also have herds of cattle, sheep and goats. The Subia believe that their ancestral spirits will harm anyone who does not honor them or who disregards tribal tradition in some way. Fear dominates their lives. Pray that someone will take the Gospel to the Subia so they may know the freedom of Christ. Pray that many will experience new life.
Saturday May 21: A few weeks ago after worship, members of the Vuvulane Baptist Church visited a sick lady in the community. When Wayne Myers first entered the room he did not see her emaciated body and walked right past her. Perhaps it will be a matter of time before this lady succumbs to her illness. The sign of loss is everywhere. Homesteads are either caring for a sick loved one or burying a loss family member. The only occupants of some homesteads are children with no one to care for them. What is their hope? For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16 Pray those dying with AIDS will have a chance to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior before it is too late.
Sunday May 22: 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 23: The Muslim creed simply states “There is no god but Allah and Mohammed is His prophet.” When making this statement 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 by God to point Muslims to Him.
Tuesday May 24: May 24-May 31 a volunteer team from Clear Creek Bible College (Pineville, Ky.) arrives to work with the Allens in the Hhohho region. Please pray for Dan and Shannon, Steve and Sheri and Dr. Lucas as they come to serve in Swaziland. The team will primarily minister in the two newest work areas in this region.
Wednesday May 25: Pray for Thomas Yawn (Deborah Hoskins’ brother) today on his birthday!!
Pray Thomas will have a very happy birthday!!
--The Hoskins enjoyed their time with friends Tia and Caleb who visited last month. Tia and Caleb were able to see the different ministries throughout Swaziland and South Africa. Todd and Deborah hope they visit again!!
Thursday May 26: Next month four “Hands On” missionaries involved with True Love Waits ministries will arrive in Swaziland. Sienna, Brandi, Kim and Heather will stay in Tshaneni and Mbabane for six months ministering to and with the Swazi people. Their term will end in December. Pray for these missionaries as they prepare for their time in Swaziland. Pray hearts and lives will be touched as God’s plan for marriage and purity is shared.
Friday May 27: Today Hunter Johnson and Katie Halllack arrive from the states (May 27-June 30). Hunter and Katie will serve with the Myers, Allens and Hoskins throughout the month of June in various ministry opportunities. Pray Hunter and Katie will enjoy their time of ministry in Swaziland. One ministry includes speaking/leading the National Youth Leaders Retreat on June 3-5. Pray for all the Swazi Baptist Youth leaders as the plan to attend this retreat. Pray Hunter and Katie’s time with these youth will be very special.
Saturday May 28: With the new True Love Waits missionaries arriving in June, dynamics will change for the Swazi Team. Instead of 8 team members, the number will increase to 18. Pray the Myers, Allens and Hoskins will be able to adjust to working with the Lord’s provision of new workers for the harvest. Pray mighty blessings will occur.
Sunday May 29: Both the Luwhawhaweni and Vuvulane Baptist Churches (North Lubumbo) have been given land to build church structures. Pray as these congregations plan towards their building projects. Through tithes and offerings, may these new structures be completed.
Monday May 30: Medical care for the Swazi people is not always available due to clinics with no doctors or adequate supply of medications, nurses diagnosing and prescribing medications, hospitals usually are over crowded and patients sleep on the floor, family must care for the patients’ needs while in the hospital, cleanliness is a concern and many still consult sangomas and witch doctors. Pray the government of Swaziland will see the need to provide doctors in clinics and a supply of medications will be adequate. Pray Swazis will not seek the use of traditional methods for medical care.
Tuesday May 31: Pray for Todd and Deborah Hoskins today on their 3rd Wedding Annversary!!
Today the six summer missionaries (June-July) arrive in Swaziland to begin their time of sharing the True Love Waits message with Swazi churches and schools. The Swazi Team welcomes Jonathon, Ronald, Victoria, Adam, Elizabeth and Tiffany. Pray these missionaries will be spiritually prepared for the task the Lord has given each of them. Pray they will have good physical, emotional and spiritual health and will receive many blessings.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
April Update from Hoskins
Thank you for your prayers for the cluster meeting in Johannesburg. We had a wonderful time with our coworkers from all over southern Africa. Todd was particularly delighted that a group from First Baptist Orlando came to lead us in worship. He attended First Baptist Orlando while he worked at Disney a few years back, so worshiping with them was like a taste of home. I think he must have paid them beforehand to play all of his favorite songs.
Easter is the largest celebration of the year here in Swaziland. Last week we had a gathering of about 200 people from all the Baptist churches in the country. The churches put together a continuous agenda of worship, teaching, and fellowship that lasted from Thursday through Easter Sunday. Some of the ladies cooked for the entire group, so we got to eat a lot of good traditional cooking, and Deborah learned a few more secrets from the Swazi kitchen. We were able to use our vehicle to transport some people from the deep rural area, who had never been able to attend an Easter service before. Todd was also able to bring his friend, Lucky Dlamini. It was the first Easter Service he had ever attended too.
Summertime in the United States will be bringing a lot of extra hands to work with us here in Swaziland. Six college summer missionaries will be in Swaziland for two months sharing the message of True Love Waits in the rural areas. Four Hands On missionaries will be here for six months beginning in June working with True Love Waits. Having these workers come with the specific mission of True Love Waits is an answer to prayer for this country that is devastated by HIV/AIDS.
Please be in prayer for the missionaries coming this summer. Please pray for opportunities for them to share God’s love. Along with those already mentioned, there will also be a several teams visiting and working in different areas all over the country. Extra hands require extra work, but we are excited about how God can use our growing team, and we are excited that we may be seeing some of you soon!
Thank you for your support.
Easter is the largest celebration of the year here in Swaziland. Last week we had a gathering of about 200 people from all the Baptist churches in the country. The churches put together a continuous agenda of worship, teaching, and fellowship that lasted from Thursday through Easter Sunday. Some of the ladies cooked for the entire group, so we got to eat a lot of good traditional cooking, and Deborah learned a few more secrets from the Swazi kitchen. We were able to use our vehicle to transport some people from the deep rural area, who had never been able to attend an Easter service before. Todd was also able to bring his friend, Lucky Dlamini. It was the first Easter Service he had ever attended too.
Summertime in the United States will be bringing a lot of extra hands to work with us here in Swaziland. Six college summer missionaries will be in Swaziland for two months sharing the message of True Love Waits in the rural areas. Four Hands On missionaries will be here for six months beginning in June working with True Love Waits. Having these workers come with the specific mission of True Love Waits is an answer to prayer for this country that is devastated by HIV/AIDS.
Please be in prayer for the missionaries coming this summer. Please pray for opportunities for them to share God’s love. Along with those already mentioned, there will also be a several teams visiting and working in different areas all over the country. Extra hands require extra work, but we are excited about how God can use our growing team, and we are excited that we may be seeing some of you soon!
Thank you for your support.
Myers Weekly Prayer Letter
The National Swazi Baptist Easter Services last Thursday-Sunday (April 21-24) are now history. The services were conducted at a school in the Manzini area and over 150 attended. The agenda included convention reports, Bible studies, a full-scale children’s program, worship, testimonies and wonderful music. Most attendees arrived on Thursday evening with their blankets, bags and Bibles. They found their “sleeping spot” and prepared for three nights and four days of sharing and fellowshipping with members of approximately 25 of the 30 Swazi Baptist churches. Plenty of laughter and singing could be heard throughout the “camp”! Pray a spirit of unity among the Swazi Baptist churches and Swazi Baptist Convention will continue. Pray the “Spirit of Easter” will be with us all year long!
I was asked to help provide a children’s program that began on Thursday evening and ended on Saturday evening. The children presented a play on the last week of Jesus’ life and resurrection during the worship on Sunday morning. I had wonderful Swazi helpers and was blessed by their commitment to our task. The children gathered in our room ready to sing, study and have fun. Laughter could be heard even after the teacher began talking. There is so much to teach these children and so much to learn about Jesus, the Bible, Christian living and church life. The task must begin when they are young so they can develop into strong committed Swazi Christian leaders. Pray the 30 Swazi Baptist churches will take seriously the responsibility of teaching and training their children. Pray each Swazi Baptist church will desire to have a strong children’s program.
WHERE’S THE CHICKEN???
Remember the commercial a couple of decades ago for a hamburger chain with the grandma that yelled “Where’s the Beef?” The participants or our Easter services found themselves looking not for the beef but for the chicken. Saturday night 9 bags of chicken portions mysteriously disappeared. Whispers of where was the chicken, who took the chicken, what happened to the chicken were being heard around the camp. It was a true mystery!! So mysterious in fact that around midnight the sleeping attendees were roused from their sleep and their bags searched for the missing bags of chicken portions!! Alias, the missing chicken continued to be missing since it was not found among the searched belongings. Instead of whispers, complete vocal comments could be heard the next day around the camp. One brave soul even condemned the search since at Saturday night’s supper there was an enormous amount of chicken. So much in fact extra pieces were being freely given. Could this be the missing chicken? Did the cook’s accidently cook all the chicken instead of Saturday night’s allotment? Oh well, I guess the mystery of the missing chicken portions will continue to be a mystery since no one is admitting to the crime. So we can say in unison “Where’s the Chicken?”
As I type this prayer letter the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton is taking place. Many people line the streets to see the participants of the wedding, the Queen, and the wedding couple. What a spectacular affair. Tomorrow (April 30), another wedding is taking place. The couple is not royalty but hard working Swazis who have been together for many years and have several children together. He is the pastor of the Ntuthwakazi Baptist Church. The Mkhiliphis desire to be obedient to the Lord and have a Christian wedding. Plans and preparations are being completed. Other Swazi Baptist pastors are part of the program and ceremony. There is excitement everywhere. Pray for this couple as they invite their friends, family, church members and community to their Christian wedding tomorrow at the Ntuthwakazi Baptist Church. May their wedding be a wonderful witness to their family and the Ntuthwakazi community.
--Saturday May 7, the executive committee of the Baptist Convention of Swaziland meets. One item on the agenda is to evaluate the National Easter Services in April. Pray for this group as they prayerfully reflect on the 2011 Easter Services. Pray for a time of unity and consensus.
--May 15, Kym Pennington, True Love Waits International consultant returns to Swaziland to lead three three-day TLW trainings; 16-18 in Mbabane, 19-21 in Manzini and 23-25 in the Shiselweni or North Lubumbo region. Pray for Kym as she leads these three training events. Pray for the Swazi team as they encourage possible attendees and prepare for these events.
AIDS UPDATE:
Please continue to pray the In-Home Care Kits (BGR buckets) will soon make their way to Swaziland from Durban, South Africa. Pray for the Swazi team as they seek to train our church members on the use of the buckets with AIDS victims and their families.
COMPUTER UPDATE:
We are still experiencing computer woes. After 6 months, I still do not have my computer. Wayne has talked with the “head man” of the group who has given Wayne an update on the situation, but every time they talk it is a different update. He did tell Wayne he is talking with the technician that is working on the computer but I don’t particularly trust him and still have great concerns. I don’t know who has the computer. L Please continue praying that the ending to this situation will be a friendly one.
--We will take Wayne’s computer to Jo’burg for repairs the end of May. We are both using his old but trustworthy Dell laptop and adjusting to having to take turns on the computer!!
I was asked to help provide a children’s program that began on Thursday evening and ended on Saturday evening. The children presented a play on the last week of Jesus’ life and resurrection during the worship on Sunday morning. I had wonderful Swazi helpers and was blessed by their commitment to our task. The children gathered in our room ready to sing, study and have fun. Laughter could be heard even after the teacher began talking. There is so much to teach these children and so much to learn about Jesus, the Bible, Christian living and church life. The task must begin when they are young so they can develop into strong committed Swazi Christian leaders. Pray the 30 Swazi Baptist churches will take seriously the responsibility of teaching and training their children. Pray each Swazi Baptist church will desire to have a strong children’s program.
WHERE’S THE CHICKEN???
Remember the commercial a couple of decades ago for a hamburger chain with the grandma that yelled “Where’s the Beef?” The participants or our Easter services found themselves looking not for the beef but for the chicken. Saturday night 9 bags of chicken portions mysteriously disappeared. Whispers of where was the chicken, who took the chicken, what happened to the chicken were being heard around the camp. It was a true mystery!! So mysterious in fact that around midnight the sleeping attendees were roused from their sleep and their bags searched for the missing bags of chicken portions!! Alias, the missing chicken continued to be missing since it was not found among the searched belongings. Instead of whispers, complete vocal comments could be heard the next day around the camp. One brave soul even condemned the search since at Saturday night’s supper there was an enormous amount of chicken. So much in fact extra pieces were being freely given. Could this be the missing chicken? Did the cook’s accidently cook all the chicken instead of Saturday night’s allotment? Oh well, I guess the mystery of the missing chicken portions will continue to be a mystery since no one is admitting to the crime. So we can say in unison “Where’s the Chicken?”
As I type this prayer letter the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton is taking place. Many people line the streets to see the participants of the wedding, the Queen, and the wedding couple. What a spectacular affair. Tomorrow (April 30), another wedding is taking place. The couple is not royalty but hard working Swazis who have been together for many years and have several children together. He is the pastor of the Ntuthwakazi Baptist Church. The Mkhiliphis desire to be obedient to the Lord and have a Christian wedding. Plans and preparations are being completed. Other Swazi Baptist pastors are part of the program and ceremony. There is excitement everywhere. Pray for this couple as they invite their friends, family, church members and community to their Christian wedding tomorrow at the Ntuthwakazi Baptist Church. May their wedding be a wonderful witness to their family and the Ntuthwakazi community.
--Saturday May 7, the executive committee of the Baptist Convention of Swaziland meets. One item on the agenda is to evaluate the National Easter Services in April. Pray for this group as they prayerfully reflect on the 2011 Easter Services. Pray for a time of unity and consensus.
--May 15, Kym Pennington, True Love Waits International consultant returns to Swaziland to lead three three-day TLW trainings; 16-18 in Mbabane, 19-21 in Manzini and 23-25 in the Shiselweni or North Lubumbo region. Pray for Kym as she leads these three training events. Pray for the Swazi team as they encourage possible attendees and prepare for these events.
AIDS UPDATE:
Please continue to pray the In-Home Care Kits (BGR buckets) will soon make their way to Swaziland from Durban, South Africa. Pray for the Swazi team as they seek to train our church members on the use of the buckets with AIDS victims and their families.
COMPUTER UPDATE:
We are still experiencing computer woes. After 6 months, I still do not have my computer. Wayne has talked with the “head man” of the group who has given Wayne an update on the situation, but every time they talk it is a different update. He did tell Wayne he is talking with the technician that is working on the computer but I don’t particularly trust him and still have great concerns. I don’t know who has the computer. L Please continue praying that the ending to this situation will be a friendly one.
--We will take Wayne’s computer to Jo’burg for repairs the end of May. We are both using his old but trustworthy Dell laptop and adjusting to having to take turns on the computer!!
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Myers Weekly Prayer Letter
The week began with quite a bit of uncertainty. A strike had been called by the labor unions and facebook participants for April 13, 14 and 15. Soldiers and policemen as well as protestors were gearing up for a big show-down. Thank goodness it did not occur. There were incidents of police and soldiers tangling with the protestors. The cities of Manzini and Mbabane were tightly blocked so outsiders could not come in to join in protesting. This displeased the unions and they have vowed that another strike will be called. The event was covered by the South African news. One clip showed King Mswati watching the protestors, dressed in Swazi traditional dress. One wonders what was going through his mind as he watched the protestors dance for political change. South Africa trade union also voiced their displeasure in the outcome of the strike. “We will not allow any goods to come into Swaziland.” We don’t when that will happen and hope it does not. Nothing was really solved and discontentment continues. Pray the political situation in Swaziland will reach a peaceful solution. Grievances include displeasure by the extravagant spending of the King, his 13 wives and numerable children and the desire to chose own leaders and officials.
Happy Birthday to Steven Allen on the 20th of April. Pray Steve will have a very special day!!
--Tuesday the Swazi Team will meet at the home of the Hoskins’ to discuss accommodations and ministry of the six summer missionaries and four “Hands On” missionaries arriving in June to share the True Love Waits message with schools and churches. The summer missionaries with be in Swaziland during June and July. The “Hands On” missionaries will arrive in June and leave the middle of December. Pray for these missionaries as they prepare to work and live in Swaziland. Pray for the Swazi Team as we prepare to host them!!
--The Swazi Team praises the Lord on word that the Minister of Finance has given the okay for the 648 In-Home Care Kits (BGR buckets) to enter Swaziland tax free!!! Presently, BGR is determining the best method to get the buckets into Swaziland. Pray the buckets will be easily transported from Durban, South Africa to Swaziland as quickly as possible. Pray for the Swazi Team as we seek to train our church members on the use of the buckets with AIDS victims and their families.
What are the In Home Care kits? It is a compilation of medical and hygiene supplies that Baptist Global Response (BGR) is asking US churches, groups or individuals to provide to assist caregivers of home-bound, terminally ill patients. An In-Home Care Kit is designed to be delivered individually to a sick person’s home to show the love of Christ in a tangible way. The Kit is packed in a 5-gallon bucket filled with items like multivitamins, sheets, a towel and washcloths, soap for sensitive skin, gloves for caregivers and much more. For more information about the kit, go to http://www.inhomecarekit.org/ and go to the “Shopping List” page. Also the “How do these items help?” page will give you some suggestions about how we use the items in the kit.
KITS FOR KIDS…Connecting Kids Who Care With Kids in Need!!
This summer Baptist Global Response is partnering with LifeWay Christian Resources in the Vacation Bible School missions project. Kids in Vacation Bible Schools all over the United States will be collecting school supplies for “Kits for Kids.” There’s even a website of resources for churches at http://www.vbskitsforkids.com/. Check it out!! Maybe this is something your VBS would like to do.
AND CHRIST WAS CRUCIFIED ANEW
Not only once, and long ago,
There on Golgotha’s rugged side,
Has Christ, the Lord been crucified
Because He loved a lost world so.
But hourly souls, sin-satisfied,Mock His great love,
flout His commands,
And drive nails deep into His hands,
And thrust the spear within His side.
--John Richard Moreland
Celebrate God’s gift to man on Good Friday April 22 and Easter Sunday April 24!!
Pray for the National Good Friday/Easter Services that begin on the 21st of April and conclude on Easter Sunday. The theme is the “Power of the Resurrection” and sessions will be provided for adult/youth and children as well as evening worship. Pray the 2011 Good Friday/Easter Services will be a blessing to those attending. May everyone understand the true meaning and purpose of the Christ’s crucifixion and His resurrection.
AIDS UPDATE:
--The Luwahhawhhweni Baptist Church lost a member this week. She was one of the original members of the small congregation and she was HIV positive. She always had a smile and even though she walked with a slight limp (from a previous stroke) she regularly attended church and Friday Bible study. She will be missed. Pray for the family of this lady (34 years old with three children) as they deal with their loss. Pray for the Luwhhawhhaweni Baptist Church that continues to loss members to the AIDS pandemic. Another member (with symptoms of AIDS) has also been sick and in the hospital. Pray she will gain strength and recover from her illness.
--Last Sunday after worship services the adults of the Vuvulane Baptist Church visited a very sick lady in the community. When Wayne first entered the room he did not see her emaciated body and walked right past her. She too showed signs of AIDS. Pray for this lady. Perhaps it will be a matter of time before she succumbs to her illness. The sign of loss is everywhere. Homesteads are either caring for a sick loved one or burying a loss family member. The only occupants of some homesteads are children with no one to care for them. What is their hope? For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16 Pray those dying with AIDS will have a chance to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior before it is too late.
Happy Birthday to Steven Allen on the 20th of April. Pray Steve will have a very special day!!
--Tuesday the Swazi Team will meet at the home of the Hoskins’ to discuss accommodations and ministry of the six summer missionaries and four “Hands On” missionaries arriving in June to share the True Love Waits message with schools and churches. The summer missionaries with be in Swaziland during June and July. The “Hands On” missionaries will arrive in June and leave the middle of December. Pray for these missionaries as they prepare to work and live in Swaziland. Pray for the Swazi Team as we prepare to host them!!
--The Swazi Team praises the Lord on word that the Minister of Finance has given the okay for the 648 In-Home Care Kits (BGR buckets) to enter Swaziland tax free!!! Presently, BGR is determining the best method to get the buckets into Swaziland. Pray the buckets will be easily transported from Durban, South Africa to Swaziland as quickly as possible. Pray for the Swazi Team as we seek to train our church members on the use of the buckets with AIDS victims and their families.
What are the In Home Care kits? It is a compilation of medical and hygiene supplies that Baptist Global Response (BGR) is asking US churches, groups or individuals to provide to assist caregivers of home-bound, terminally ill patients. An In-Home Care Kit is designed to be delivered individually to a sick person’s home to show the love of Christ in a tangible way. The Kit is packed in a 5-gallon bucket filled with items like multivitamins, sheets, a towel and washcloths, soap for sensitive skin, gloves for caregivers and much more. For more information about the kit, go to http://www.inhomecarekit.org/ and go to the “Shopping List” page. Also the “How do these items help?” page will give you some suggestions about how we use the items in the kit.
KITS FOR KIDS…Connecting Kids Who Care With Kids in Need!!
This summer Baptist Global Response is partnering with LifeWay Christian Resources in the Vacation Bible School missions project. Kids in Vacation Bible Schools all over the United States will be collecting school supplies for “Kits for Kids.” There’s even a website of resources for churches at http://www.vbskitsforkids.com/. Check it out!! Maybe this is something your VBS would like to do.
AND CHRIST WAS CRUCIFIED ANEW
Not only once, and long ago,
There on Golgotha’s rugged side,
Has Christ, the Lord been crucified
Because He loved a lost world so.
But hourly souls, sin-satisfied,Mock His great love,
flout His commands,
And drive nails deep into His hands,
And thrust the spear within His side.
--John Richard Moreland
Celebrate God’s gift to man on Good Friday April 22 and Easter Sunday April 24!!
Pray for the National Good Friday/Easter Services that begin on the 21st of April and conclude on Easter Sunday. The theme is the “Power of the Resurrection” and sessions will be provided for adult/youth and children as well as evening worship. Pray the 2011 Good Friday/Easter Services will be a blessing to those attending. May everyone understand the true meaning and purpose of the Christ’s crucifixion and His resurrection.
AIDS UPDATE:
--The Luwahhawhhweni Baptist Church lost a member this week. She was one of the original members of the small congregation and she was HIV positive. She always had a smile and even though she walked with a slight limp (from a previous stroke) she regularly attended church and Friday Bible study. She will be missed. Pray for the family of this lady (34 years old with three children) as they deal with their loss. Pray for the Luwhhawhhaweni Baptist Church that continues to loss members to the AIDS pandemic. Another member (with symptoms of AIDS) has also been sick and in the hospital. Pray she will gain strength and recover from her illness.
--Last Sunday after worship services the adults of the Vuvulane Baptist Church visited a very sick lady in the community. When Wayne first entered the room he did not see her emaciated body and walked right past her. She too showed signs of AIDS. Pray for this lady. Perhaps it will be a matter of time before she succumbs to her illness. The sign of loss is everywhere. Homesteads are either caring for a sick loved one or burying a loss family member. The only occupants of some homesteads are children with no one to care for them. What is their hope? For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16 Pray those dying with AIDS will have a chance to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior before it is too late.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
An Update to an Update for the Allens
Dear Prayer Warriors,
Greetings from Swaziland! So much is happening right now that we wanted to update everyone on several items...
Praises/Prayer Concerns:
- Steven is leading a baptism service at Peace Baptist Church today and praising God that the weather is beautiful. Pray for those that are being baptized that they will stay strong in their new relationship with Jesus!
-Kids and I are home today as Lacie has yet another ear infection and keeping her low for the weekend to rest. She is doing much better and plans to return to school this week. Schools begin their term break after this week (schools close from April 15 - May 3 or May 10, depending on the school).
- Steven was able to visit the new work area with some of the members from Hawane Baptist Church this past Thursday. He was also able to meet the indvuna, chief's assistant, and was granted permission to proceed starting a Bible study. God keeps opening the doors! Pray for this new work to grow strong with a solid foundation of God's Word and Truth!
- Our recent missionary meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, was one of the best mission meetings we have ever attended. So many of us came to the meeting tired and worn out but left with a very refreshed heart and spirit to press on with all God has for our various ministries. We thank First Baptist Orlando for sharing with us in preaching, worship and leading our children. You all were amazing and God used you!
- Praise the Lord that we received word from the Minister of Finance that the container of 648 in-home care kits can come into the country tax free! Woo! Hoo! Pray now for the tranportation issues to get the container from Durban (nearest port to us and only one day drive) to us quickly. Pray for our team as we seek to train our churches in passing them out to the right people that needs these buckets.
- Our churches are busy planning our annual Easters services (Thursday - Sunday, April 22-25) as it is a time of them to come together for preaching, worship and fellowship. The group that met for the Convention was small but they were able to proceed with making final decisions for the services. Pray each life will be touched in a special way during the Easter services.
- Pray for our missionary team as we are looking towards a very busy American summer months with lots of volunteers and teams coming to serve with us, especially from May - August.
SPECIAL REQUEST: (sent out by our prayer advocate, Barbara Myers) In recent weeks political developments throughout the Middle East and Africa have been major headlines. As country after country struggles with inner conflict and turmoil, others watch hoping it will not happen to them. April 12, 13 and 14 the trade union in Swaziland has called for strikes in Mbabane, Manzini and Nhlangano. Although strikes and discontentment are not new to Swaziland, in view of current events there is need for concern. Political heads of our country are calling the strikes against the law and rumors of military preparedness are spreading. What will be the outcome? Please pray these strikes will not end in riots and the military/police will not be called to provide order. Chaos usually follows when the military or police get involved. Pray peace will prevail over the nation of Swaziland.
Our family is busy planning ahead with petrol for vehicles, generators, groceries, running necessary errands over the weekend and Monday. We will try to write with an update during these days if we still have electricity, phone and internet. It is all in God's hands!!!
Let us hear from you as you are able to write!
Thank you for your faithful prayer support!!!
Steven, Monica, Lacie and Nathan Allen
Greetings from Swaziland! So much is happening right now that we wanted to update everyone on several items...
Praises/Prayer Concerns:
- Steven is leading a baptism service at Peace Baptist Church today and praising God that the weather is beautiful. Pray for those that are being baptized that they will stay strong in their new relationship with Jesus!
-Kids and I are home today as Lacie has yet another ear infection and keeping her low for the weekend to rest. She is doing much better and plans to return to school this week. Schools begin their term break after this week (schools close from April 15 - May 3 or May 10, depending on the school).
- Steven was able to visit the new work area with some of the members from Hawane Baptist Church this past Thursday. He was also able to meet the indvuna, chief's assistant, and was granted permission to proceed starting a Bible study. God keeps opening the doors! Pray for this new work to grow strong with a solid foundation of God's Word and Truth!
- Our recent missionary meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, was one of the best mission meetings we have ever attended. So many of us came to the meeting tired and worn out but left with a very refreshed heart and spirit to press on with all God has for our various ministries. We thank First Baptist Orlando for sharing with us in preaching, worship and leading our children. You all were amazing and God used you!
- Praise the Lord that we received word from the Minister of Finance that the container of 648 in-home care kits can come into the country tax free! Woo! Hoo! Pray now for the tranportation issues to get the container from Durban (nearest port to us and only one day drive) to us quickly. Pray for our team as we seek to train our churches in passing them out to the right people that needs these buckets.
- Our churches are busy planning our annual Easters services (Thursday - Sunday, April 22-25) as it is a time of them to come together for preaching, worship and fellowship. The group that met for the Convention was small but they were able to proceed with making final decisions for the services. Pray each life will be touched in a special way during the Easter services.
- Pray for our missionary team as we are looking towards a very busy American summer months with lots of volunteers and teams coming to serve with us, especially from May - August.
SPECIAL REQUEST: (sent out by our prayer advocate, Barbara Myers) In recent weeks political developments throughout the Middle East and Africa have been major headlines. As country after country struggles with inner conflict and turmoil, others watch hoping it will not happen to them. April 12, 13 and 14 the trade union in Swaziland has called for strikes in Mbabane, Manzini and Nhlangano. Although strikes and discontentment are not new to Swaziland, in view of current events there is need for concern. Political heads of our country are calling the strikes against the law and rumors of military preparedness are spreading. What will be the outcome? Please pray these strikes will not end in riots and the military/police will not be called to provide order. Chaos usually follows when the military or police get involved. Pray peace will prevail over the nation of Swaziland.
Our family is busy planning ahead with petrol for vehicles, generators, groceries, running necessary errands over the weekend and Monday. We will try to write with an update during these days if we still have electricity, phone and internet. It is all in God's hands!!!
Let us hear from you as you are able to write!
Thank you for your faithful prayer support!!!
Steven, Monica, Lacie and Nathan Allen
Friday, April 8, 2011
Myers Weekly Prayer Letter
“To the Praise of His Glory” was the theme of the 2011 Two Oceans Cluster meeting in Jo’burg March 30-April 4. What a wonderful time of praise and worship led by the First Baptist Church, Orlando, Fla. I can’t begin to tell you how my life was touched by the music and sermons that were shared with us. It gave my life the spiritual boost it so much needed. Ministering and serving is not about us, but about our Lord Jesus Christ, it is about HIM. Pray I will remember these words as I rise and prepare for each day. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:11 These meetings also provided a wonderful time of fellowship and reconnecting with our missionary colleagues that serve in South Africa, Indian Ocean Islands and Namibia. Please pray the Lord will continue to provide wisdom and discernment for these missionaries. Pray blessings will fall on their ministries and their lives.
We were in the middle of a meal and conversation when one of our missionary friends brought a young girl to our table. She preceded to say, “This young girl wanted to meet missionaries on the Swazi Team. Her parents were missionaries in Swaziland and she was born in Swaziland. Her name is Sarah Michelle Howard.” Oh what a joy to be able to see Sarah Michelle. I had been thinking of the family that was part of the “Swaziland Mission” 1992-1996. I remember Sarah Michelle when she was very small. Now she is 19 years old and was part of the volunteer team from the First Baptist Church of Orlando, Florida. The Lord continues to bless! We had a nice conversation with plenty of hugs!!
--Monday-Wednesday (April 4-6), Wayne and I attended the Community Development Training led by Mark and Susan Hatfield of BGR (Baptist Global Response). Basically our training helped us to see how to begin needed projects in communities using good “missiology” with avoidance of dependency. The Swazis have so many needs but they are also quick to look to others to provide for their needs. Pray the Swazi Team will seek the Lord’s guidance as we try to meet the needs of those around us without encouraging dependency.
SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST:
In recent weeks political developments throughout the Middle East and Africa have been major headlines. As country after country struggles with inner conflict and turmoil, others watch hoping it will not happen to them. April 12, 13 and 14 the trade union in Swaziland has called for strikes in Mbabane, Manzini and Nhlangano. Although strikes and discontentment are not new to Swaziland, in view of current events there is need for concern. Political heads of our country are calling the strikes against the law and rumors of military preparedness are spreading. What will be the outcome? Please pray these strikes will not end in riots and the military/police will not be called to provide order. Chaos usually follows when the military or police get involved. Pray peace will prevail over the nation of Swaziland.
--Saturday (9th of April) the Baptist Convention of Swaziland will meet to finalize plans for the National Easter Services April 21-24. Pray planning will be concluded and everyone will prepare for a time of fellowship and worship. The theme of this year’s services is “The Power of the Resurrection.” Sessions will be provided for adult/youth and children as well as evening worship. Pray the 2011 Good Friday/Easter Services will be a blessing to those attending. Pray for a wonderful time of unity and worship.
MY RISEN LORD
My risen Lord, I feel Thy strong protection;
I see Thee stand among the graves today;
“I am the Way, the Life, the Resurrection,” I hear Thee say.
And all the burdens I have carried sadly Grow light as blossoms on an April day;
My cross becomes a staff, I journey gladly This Easter day.
--Author Unknown
MEDICAL UPDATE:
Here is an update on my nephew JC Miracle who was diagnosed with pancreatitis. JC was on a feeding tube for a while but now seems to be doing okay. JC seems to be doing pretty good now. The Dr. told us not to be surprised if he has a relapse in 3-4 months. He said that with chronic pancreatitis you could expect a relapse every 3-4 months for the first couple of years afterwards. So, just keep praying that it is healed and doesn't come back. Thank You!!
AIDS UPDATE:
Continue to pray for the six summer missionaries and four “Hands On” missionaries as they prepare to minister in Swaziland sharing the True Love Waits message in churches and schools. The six summer missionaries will be in Swaziland June and July. The four “Hands On” missionaries will arrive in June and depart in December. Pray also for True Love Waits International consultant, Kym Pennington as she leads three (3-day) training events in Swaziland in May. May hearts be touched and changed and the AIDS pandemic will loosen its grip on the Swazi people.
IMB’S OFFICE OF GLOBAL PRAYER STRATEGY:
--Please lift up IMB’s affinity group strategists and overseas leadership team as they come together on April 10 for a week of strategic planning.
--IMB’s semi-annual Personnel Support Director’s Meeting is scheduled to be held in Lima, Peru on April 11-13. Pray for wisdom as discussions take place and decisions are made regarding how better to support field personnel in the areas of medical care, member care, education of their children, and the various elements of strategic support training.
We were in the middle of a meal and conversation when one of our missionary friends brought a young girl to our table. She preceded to say, “This young girl wanted to meet missionaries on the Swazi Team. Her parents were missionaries in Swaziland and she was born in Swaziland. Her name is Sarah Michelle Howard.” Oh what a joy to be able to see Sarah Michelle. I had been thinking of the family that was part of the “Swaziland Mission” 1992-1996. I remember Sarah Michelle when she was very small. Now she is 19 years old and was part of the volunteer team from the First Baptist Church of Orlando, Florida. The Lord continues to bless! We had a nice conversation with plenty of hugs!!
--Monday-Wednesday (April 4-6), Wayne and I attended the Community Development Training led by Mark and Susan Hatfield of BGR (Baptist Global Response). Basically our training helped us to see how to begin needed projects in communities using good “missiology” with avoidance of dependency. The Swazis have so many needs but they are also quick to look to others to provide for their needs. Pray the Swazi Team will seek the Lord’s guidance as we try to meet the needs of those around us without encouraging dependency.
SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST:
In recent weeks political developments throughout the Middle East and Africa have been major headlines. As country after country struggles with inner conflict and turmoil, others watch hoping it will not happen to them. April 12, 13 and 14 the trade union in Swaziland has called for strikes in Mbabane, Manzini and Nhlangano. Although strikes and discontentment are not new to Swaziland, in view of current events there is need for concern. Political heads of our country are calling the strikes against the law and rumors of military preparedness are spreading. What will be the outcome? Please pray these strikes will not end in riots and the military/police will not be called to provide order. Chaos usually follows when the military or police get involved. Pray peace will prevail over the nation of Swaziland.
--Saturday (9th of April) the Baptist Convention of Swaziland will meet to finalize plans for the National Easter Services April 21-24. Pray planning will be concluded and everyone will prepare for a time of fellowship and worship. The theme of this year’s services is “The Power of the Resurrection.” Sessions will be provided for adult/youth and children as well as evening worship. Pray the 2011 Good Friday/Easter Services will be a blessing to those attending. Pray for a wonderful time of unity and worship.
MY RISEN LORD
My risen Lord, I feel Thy strong protection;
I see Thee stand among the graves today;
“I am the Way, the Life, the Resurrection,” I hear Thee say.
And all the burdens I have carried sadly Grow light as blossoms on an April day;
My cross becomes a staff, I journey gladly This Easter day.
--Author Unknown
MEDICAL UPDATE:
Here is an update on my nephew JC Miracle who was diagnosed with pancreatitis. JC was on a feeding tube for a while but now seems to be doing okay. JC seems to be doing pretty good now. The Dr. told us not to be surprised if he has a relapse in 3-4 months. He said that with chronic pancreatitis you could expect a relapse every 3-4 months for the first couple of years afterwards. So, just keep praying that it is healed and doesn't come back. Thank You!!
AIDS UPDATE:
Continue to pray for the six summer missionaries and four “Hands On” missionaries as they prepare to minister in Swaziland sharing the True Love Waits message in churches and schools. The six summer missionaries will be in Swaziland June and July. The four “Hands On” missionaries will arrive in June and depart in December. Pray also for True Love Waits International consultant, Kym Pennington as she leads three (3-day) training events in Swaziland in May. May hearts be touched and changed and the AIDS pandemic will loosen its grip on the Swazi people.
IMB’S OFFICE OF GLOBAL PRAYER STRATEGY:
--Please lift up IMB’s affinity group strategists and overseas leadership team as they come together on April 10 for a week of strategic planning.
--IMB’s semi-annual Personnel Support Director’s Meeting is scheduled to be held in Lima, Peru on April 11-13. Pray for wisdom as discussions take place and decisions are made regarding how better to support field personnel in the areas of medical care, member care, education of their children, and the various elements of strategic support training.
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