Volunteer Reflections #2

Sanibonani!
Hello from Swaziland! We hope you are all doing well. We have had a busy few days and just wanted to send a quick update with some pictures. Sunday, we went to Hawane Baptist for a baptismal service. We arrived at about 11:00 to an extremely crowded church that had already started singing. Hawane has definitely outgrown their structure, and it was confirmed once again during the service. Somehow, we all fit inside the church and enjoyed a nice service. We greeted the church and shared with them briefly about different things that the Lord has been doing in our lives since we last were in Swaziland. As always, we enjoyed about an hour of singing and then about thirty minutes of testimonies before Steve began preaching at 12:30. At about 1:15 we began the baptisms. Four Swazis were baptized with ages ranging from about 15 to 70. This was the first time that both of us had been to a baptism, and we really enjoyed it. We have included a few pictures for you to see. Sunday night, we went to the International Bible Study that the Allens attend each week.
Monday, we spent the morning shopping at Swazi Candles and then went to the market in Ezulwini (the mile long one). After we had lunch at the mission house, we went to visit Maria’s blind friend. Maria goes to see her every Monday and reads the Bible to her. We walked to her house and stayed for a couple of hours and just talked. We read from Philippians and Ephesians and prayed together. She served us hot, roasted peanuts and some sweet potatoes. Yum.
Today, we left at about 8:15 to go with one of the Allen’s missionary friends, Teresa Rehmeyer, who works with HIV patients and breast cancer patients. We went to the breast cancer clinic with her in Manzini and were there for most of the day. Some of these women were just in for check-ups. Most do not have access to a mammogram machine because there is only one in all of Swaziland, and it is at a private clinic which they cannot afford. Others were bringing back results from the hospitals or other doctors. The doctor we were working with is from Cuba, which presented an additional language barrier. Teresa spent most of the time discerning what he was saying (when it was “English”), and then telling the Swazis (still in English). Sometimes, it took two different translators: the doctor spoke to Teresa who spoke to a translator to tell the patient in siSwati. As you can probably imagine, it was quite an ordeal with each and every patient, especially when they did not speak English. We learned a new meaning to the words “lost in translation.” We did enjoy our time at the clinic and learned a lot. Some of you may remember when Hunter worked with Teresa last year. There was a special little girl we worked with whose name was Lomasantfu. She was about 10-years-old and had an enormous tumor on the side of her face. Well, Teresa told us that she saw her this past Sunday, and she looks like any other little girl- healed, running around, and happy. The doctors had discovered that the tumor was in her bone; therefore, her entire jaw was replaced about 6 or 8 months ago in South Africa. She will probably have to get another prosthetic jaw put in as she gets older and grows, but she is doing so much better and is attending a church through another Christian organization. This was such great news to hear, and I know many of you are rejoicing with us upon hearing this news.
This afternoon, we met up with Monica at the Spar (the grocery store). Tomorrow is Lacie’s fifth birthday, so we were buying some things for her special birthday dinner. Tonight, we are just enjoying some time visiting together. The weather has been warmer the past few days, so we have not had a fire which both of us have been bummed about. J Apparently, this is a much warmer winter than usual, but we have been thankful for it. Tomorrow, Sandile is coming over for lunch, and we are so excited to see him. In the afternoon, we are going to Sibebe with Maria for her weekly Bible Study. Enjoy the pictures! We will write more soon!

Love, Hunter and Brinkley

Volunteer Reflections #1

Greetings from Swaziland!
Brinkley and I have just finished our second day of ministry work here and are currently enjoying some hot tea in front of the fire (seriously!). We landed in South Africa on Tuesday and drove to Swaziland on Wednesday. While we are in Mbabane, we are staying in the “Journeyman house” next door to the Allens. We spent Thursday running errands around town and unpacking. Yesterday, we went to Hawane for an afternoon Bible Study. Steve leads an adult study each week, so we did one for children. Brinkley taught about the four friends who carried the paralyzed man to see Jesus and lowered him through the roof. We also taught them how to do a 3-legged-race and played some other games they are used to. The weather was finally sunny and warm yesterday, because it had been cold and rainy since we got off the plane. We definitely enjoyed being outside. It was great to see several of the women we know from our previous trips, as well as a few of the youth. We have included a picture of Brinkley with Thokozani and Kuseni, which some of you may recognize. We are looking forward to seeing the rest of our friends at Hawane on Sunday.
We had a nice Swazi experience after the Bible Study. The Hawane church was finally shown a plot of land that they have been granted so they can build a new church structure, because they have definitely outgrown the building they currently use. We sat in the grass with several of the elders and the chief’s assistant (or the indvuna), Babe Jele, and talked about the new location for about an hour or so. The Hawane church has been waiting for 8 months for this meeting. It was exciting to be a part of it.
Today, we visited the new area that Steve has been working in- Lesivovu. There were about 20 youth and adults and 50 children. Hunter continued the chronological Bible Study that Steve has been doing for the youth and adults, and Brinkley taught the children. It was the first time many of the children had played with parachutes and Frisbees, so they thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Brinkley also made cross necklaces with them, which they loved. Seeing a camera was also new, so we loved all of the reactions and got some good pictures.
Another Swazi experience, which is also the highlight of today, was having 32 people in our single cab baki (truck). There were 29 people in the back, including both of us and Jane, who came to help translate. Steve, Lacie, and Maria counted as the other 3 in the truck. There is a picture of the back of the truck included. It is impossible to see us, but we are all the way in the back. This will at least give you an idea of our fun. Please remember, this has also been the warmest day we’ve had yet, and we were close to Manzini, which is always about 10 degrees warmer than Mbabane, so fun is a great word to use. J We have also included a few more pictures taken in the back of the truck today, after we had dropped off all of the children.
Monica’s mom arrived tonight. The kids were thrilled to see their “Gogo Polly.” Also, Maria and Jane both send their greetings to First Baptist. Tomorrow, we will all go to Hawane, and the plan is to have a baptism service if the weather is warm enough. This will be a new experience for both of us, and we are really excited. We hope you enjoy these pictures. Please feel free to email us (hunterclaire88@yahoo.com or brinkleyj91@yahoo.com). As always, thank you all for your prayers and support. We will send another update soon.

Love,
Hunter and Brinkley

Swazi Team Prayer Calendar - August 2009

Saturday August 1: Pray for Sarah Warren today on her birthday!!
The executive committee of the Baptist Convention of Swaziland meets today. Pray this meeting will reflect the desire to glorify the Lord in all that is said and done. Pray for good attendance of those on the executive committee.

Sunday August 2: Pray for the new outreach group in Lesibovu, south of Manzini where Steven Allen started a new Bible study in February. The group averages about 50 each Saturday afternoon. Pray for God’s wisdom in guiding each step with this new group. Even now pray for leaders that would rise within the congregation to be trained in the near future. A few weeks ago 28 people accepted Jesus Christ during one of the Bible studies. Plans are being made for the FIRST Sunday service at Lesibovu August 2nd at 1:30pm.

Monday August 3: July 1st the IMB (International Mission Board) began a new epoch of change from geographic regions to global affinity groups. (Affinity groups are large groupings of related peoples that share similar origins and cultures.) Please pray for IMB personnel as they transition to new administrative structures, leadership, relationships and ministry possibilities. Ask God to speak into missionary hearts, revealing His vision for reaching the massive number of people groups who have yet to hear or respond to the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Tuesday August 4: In April Lisa Warren’s father suffered a stroke and has been in rehabilitation care centers. Due to insurance limitations he will return to his home on August 3rd. After much prayer the Warrens feel God leading them to return to the States to care for Lisa’s father (Lisa is the only child). They will leave Swaziland on the 5th of August. Please pray for direction and discernment in all aspects of life from preparing their home to handle Lisa’s dad’s special needs to placing Jessie, Matthew and Sarah back in school as well as Bert and Lisa finding employment.

Wednesday August 5: Thank you for praying for Steven Allen’s trip to Israel for the archeological dig with Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. It was a fantastic trip and one he will remember for the rest of his life. Thank you for praying for his safety in travels and a wonderful time of holiday being refreshed doing something that is a passion of Steven’s heart.
-Pray for wisdom in the next step of where God wants Steven Allen to pursue seeking a new work area. After much prayer and seeing other established evangelical work in the Nkhaba area, God has closed the doors for us to continue the outreach Bible study each week.

Thursday August 6: The youth leaders of the Swazi Baptist churches in the Shiselweni Region met July 18th and 25th to plan for future ministries in their churches. Planning went well with a new excitement among the youth leaders. Please pray these youth will stay strong and develop into strong leaders for their churches. Pray they will live pure and holy lives and through their witness many Swazis will come to know Jesus Christ as their Savior.

Friday August 7: Pray as the Swazi team prayerfully works on personnel job requests for workers to come serve alongside the Swazi Team. Even now be praying for the people God wants to send to work with the Swazi mission team and the Swazi people to further His kingdom.

Saturday August 8: A couple of weeks ago 5 new believers of the Mphembekati Baptist Church (Manzini) were baptized. Please pray for the 5 that were baptized to be faithful to the Lord and the Christian way of life. Pray for Pastor Lloyd Dlamini as he leads the church.

Sunday August 9: Revival services were held ion Aprill 22nd -May 3rd.at Maphungwani. Sunday worship services began after the revival services concluded and have continued led by members of the Phuzumoya Baptist Church. Pray this congregation will become a strong Baptist church and will strive to reach the lost in the community. In June 58 people were baptized.

Monday August 10: According to the “Swazi Weekend Observer” several cultural practices and beliefs contribute greatly to the spread of HIV and AIDS in Swaziland. Besides cultural practices such as forced marriages and widow inheriting, other factors include poverty, high mobility of the population, alcohol and drug abuse and male dominance. Pray these problems that plague the Swazi population will be controlled and no longer help spread HIV and AIDS. Pray for a strong sense of Christian living verses cultural practices in Swaziland.

Tuesday August 11: In April Kelly Woody, True Love Waits International consultant visited the Swazi Team members in their areas of work. She was able to connect with some of the True Love Wait presenters. Kelly returns to Swaziland today to assist the Swazi Team with True Love Waits and to teach about TLW at the National Youth Camp (Aug. 27-30). Pray for Kelly as she works with Swazis and missionaries to establish a strong True Love Waits program in Swaziland.

Wednesday August 12: Pray for the Allen family to have strength and wisdom as Steve and Monica balance family and ministry each day. Pray for their walks with the Lord to grow more and more and specifically direction for family as Lacie and Nathan are taught to the love the Lord Jesus with all their hearts. Since the weekly church services are conducted in siSwati it is difficult for the children to understand what is being said. Pray Steve and Monica will continue to find ways to make weekly worship at home positive and meaningful for the children especially Lacie.

Thursday August 13: Pray the Vuvulane Baptist Church will continue to reach the lost in the community. Pray for Douglas and Simphiwe Mavuso as they commit to leading this congregation.

Friday August 14: More and more of the small businesses in Nhlangano are being operated by Indian Musims from South Africa who promise help with school fees and jobs if recipients convert to the Muslim faith. Pray Swazis will not be easily misled by the Muslim faith. Pray for a stronger and bolder witness of the believers in Nhlangano and all of Swaziland.

Saturday August 15: Before the school year ends this year, Lacie Allen needs to have her name on a school list for first-grade (January 2011). Steve and Monica are looking at two schools in the Mbabane area and hope to visit both schools in the next couple of months. Pray Steve and Monica will be able to choose the right school environment that will be best for Lacie.

Sunday August 16: “It is a vital necessity for Christians to think along the lines in which they pray. The philosophy of prayer in that prayer is the work.” (Oswald Chambers) Pray the Lord will burden the hearts of Swazi Baptist church leaders to develop a strong prayer relationship with the Lord. Pray prayer will be an important ministry in every Swazi Baptist church.

Monday August 17: “Learning about the Bible” is this year’s theme for the Shiselweni Region Children’s Camps. The first camp begins today and ends on Wednesday (Aug. 17-19). The second camp is scheduled for August 31-Sept. 2. Pray Baptist churches in the Shiselweni Region will send their children to these camps. Pray this event will touch the lives of the children attending.

Tuesday August 18: Continue to pray for all our Baptist churches without pastoral leadership. Pray for these churches to remain one and faithful in serving one another as they patiently wait on the Lord to provide the right person to lead these churches.

Wednesday August 19: Pray for the Luwwhaweni Baptist Church (began in 2008, baptism conducted January 2009). Pray strong leaders will develop from this group that will lead the church and begin Bible studies and work in the surrounding areas.

Thursday August 20: Pray the King of Swaziland will hear and understand the gospel message. Swaziland is a polygamous nation and the King is allowed to take a wife every year. Pray the King’s wives and children will also have a chance to hear a presentation of the gospel message and believe.

Friday August 21: Pray for several churches that are currently trying to obtain plots for building new churches or shifting existing churches. Hawane Baptist is STILL waiting to have their plot of land marked by the community council. Victory Baptist plans to move a bit closer to the main road. Ntsintsa Baptist has met in a Red Cross building since it started in the 1990’s and desires to have their own church. Mphembekati Baptist has to move their existing church due to being too close to a school. Peniel Baptist recently lost their church meeting place so they are seeking a new one temporarily until they can begin building their own structure.

Saturday August 22: “If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land, says the Lord.” (2 Chronicles 9:14). Pray many Swazis will seek the Lord and humble themselves so revival can come to their land.

Sunday August 23: Pray for Lord’s direction for the ministry in Mafacula area (northeast Swaziland). Specifically pray for direction concerning youth ministry and for God to guide the pastor who has a heart to reach the youth in this community.

Monday August 24: Pray for Lisa Warren’s father to recover from his stroke (suffered in April). Pray for Bert and Lisa as they assist her mother with her dad’s medical care.

Tuesday August 25: Pray for Wayne Myers’ brother, Terry whose stage 4 cancer is in remission. Pray for his full recovery from cancer. Pray also for Barbara’s niece’s husband’s mother suffering from Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Pray for the Lord’s strength and courage for the family during this difficult time.

Wednesday August 26: Please pray Swazi men will be reached for Christ and God will provide strong Christian men and pastors from among the believers. Pray one day every Swazi Baptist church will be led by a strong mature pastor or leader.

Thursday August 27: Each year the Swazi Baptist churches have the opportunity to send their youth to the National Youth Camp. This year’s camp is August 27-30, 2009. The theme is “God Chooses Me” based on Ephesians 1:4-5. The camp’s main speaker is Lad Chapman, missionary friend serving with Children’s Cup. Pray the annual National Youth Camp will reach many Swazi youth for the Lord. Pray those who attend will daily seek the Lord’s face and will constantly strive to understand the Lord’s will for their life.

Friday August 28: Pray for Wayne and Barbara Myers as they prepare for their stateside assignment in Kentucky September 24-December 30. Pray a vehicle will be available for them to drive while stateside.

Saturday August 29: Because of a concern for charismatic tendencies and practices displayed during the National Easter Services, a follow-up time of teaching is scheduled for September 11-12, 2009. Please pray for a better understanding of those attending concerning Baptist beliefs. Pray members from our Baptist churches will commit to making their churches stronger in Baptist beliefs as well as Christians beliefs.

Sunday August 30: As the AIDS pandemic continues to ravage Swaziland, pray the Swazi team will seek the Lord’s guidance in developing ministries that will touch the lives of those with AIDS and their families.

Monday August 31: The second 2009 Shiselweni Children’s Camp begins today (Aug. 31-Sept. 2). Pray a good group of children will attend. Pray for the workers to be excited and ready to lead and guide the children. Pray for a wonderful camp for everyone.

Myers Weekly Prayer Letter - July 20, 2009

Yesterday, we assisted the Allens (who were in Jo’burg) with a baptism at the Mpembekati Baptist Church (outside Manzini). The baptism was scheduled and since we had a meeting in Ezulwini Valley around 3:00pm we were asked to help Pastor Lloyd Dlamini with the baptism of 5 new believers!! The wind was quite chilly even though the sun was shining, but all five were ready to jump into the baptism waters!! (Baptisms in Swaziland are conducted outside.) Please pray for the 5 that were baptized yesterday to be faithful to the Lord and the Christian way of life. Pray for Pastor Dlamini as he leads the church.

-A couple of months ago a couple from New Mexico emailed Wayne to see if we could meet sometime while they were ministering as volunteers with the Dream for Africa organization. We made plans to meet yesterday. They are members of a Southern Baptist church in New Mexico and during our conversation we learned their church wanted to send a volunteer team to minister in Africa with Southern Baptist missionaries. We left the door open for further discussions for a possible team from their church coming to Swaziland. Please pray for this possibility and for the new beginning of working with this church. J

-I spoke with Monica Allen this morning and Steven passed a kidney stone late last night. Thank you for praying for his recovery from this kidney stone episode. After seeing the doctor this morning they were planning to return to Swaziland today. Please continue to pray for Steve’s full recovery from this kidney stone.

From the Warrens….
As most of you know Lisa’s Dad suffered a stroke this past April, and has been in rehabilitation care centers since then. Due to insurance limitations, he will be returning to his home on August 3, 2009. He has been classified as homebound and will need care providers 24/7, as well as Home Health visits to continue his rehab, and prayerfully his recovery. After much prayer, we feel that God is leading us return to the States to care for Lisa’s father (August 5th or 6th).
We will return to Marshville,NC and be moving to Lisa’s parents into our home. Please remember our family as we prepare to say goodbye to our wonderful team here, and the many Swazi people here we love. Please pray for direction and discernment in all aspects of life as we return, from packing and saying goodbyes here, traveling, moving logistics, preparing our house to handle Dad’s special needs, along with placing the children back into school and finding employment again.

Saturday the 18th of July, the youth leaders of the Swazi Baptist churches in the Shiselweni Region met at the Velebantfu Baptist Church (10:00-1:00). The meeting went well with much discussion and planning. It was felt they also needed to meet this Saturday (July 25th) to finish their planning. Pray all our youth leaders will be able to attend this meeting. Pray a good time of planning and organizing will take place.

MEDICAL PRAYER CONCERNS:
-Continue to pray for Terry Myers whose cancer is in remission. Pray for his full recovery from cancer.
--Pray for my niece’s husband’s mother who has been diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. My nephew-in-law reported that the doctors are going to insert a feeding tube before her breathing becomes too bad for the procedure to be done. Pray for the Lord’s strength and courage during this difficult time.
--Pray also for Kerry Harp who continues to recover from a motorcycle accident last year. Pray the Lord will wrap his loving arms around him and Kerry will feel His presence.

AIDS UPDATE:
New Cure for AIDS
Introducing a new cure for all the AIDS ailments! Under the strict guidance of the ancestors who entrust traditional healers in everything they do, a new product is happily introduced. Its name is Hlabatihlangana. This product has been known to contain the progress of AIDS. Also patients have been healed from their various elements including the so-called opportunistic infections associated with AIDS. This medicine is made from plants found in all four regions of Swaziland and is available at E150 per liter. Because of the concern by everyone about the AIDS pandemic, the tinyanga (witchdoctor) decided to work towards finding a cure for the ravaging disease. Pray Swazis will understand the cause of AIDS. Pray such advertisements as this one will not lure the people into having a false hope. AIDS kills-only God heals.
This is another of the stories in the Swazi People prayer booklet. -- Please pray I will receive the help needed to get the prayer booklet printed. Pray the booklet will be a wonderful tool for prayer support for the Swazi people.

UPCOMING EVENTS:
July 27th is the scheduled quarterly Swazi Team meeting in Tshaneni. Pray for a wonderful time of fellowship and business.

“Learning About the Bible” is the theme for the Shiselweni Region’s 2009 Children’s Camp. The first camp is scheduled for August 17-19 and the second camp August 31-September 2. As preparation continues, please pray the Lord will guide and direct each decision made. Pray the children will begin to look forward to this time of learning and having fun!

Each year the Swazi Baptist churches have the opportunity to send their youth to the National Youth Camp. This year’s camp is August 27-30, 2009. Pray for a venue to be confirmed this week. Pray the annual National Youth Camp will reach many Swazi youth for the Lord. Pray those who attend will daily seek the Lord’s face and will constantly strive to understand the Lord’s will for their life.

--Because of the concern for charismatic tendencies and practices displayed at the National Easter Services, teaching was scheduled by the Baptist Convention of Swaziland May 22nd-23rd. September 11-12 a follow-up teaching is scheduled. Please pray for Wayne Myers and Steven Allen as they prepare for a time of additional information sharing and a question and answer time. Pray for a better understanding of those attending concerning Baptist beliefs. Pray members from our Baptist churches will commit to making their churches stronger in Baptist beliefs as well as Christian believers.

Continue to pray for us as we continue to prepare for our departure on the 24th of September. Christmas in Kentucky, what a wonderful thought!!
--Pray we will also be able to secure a vehicle for our time in the states. (September 24th-December 30th).

Pray for Steve Allen

The Swazi Team has a special prayer request on behalf of Steven Allen. Yesterday the Allens left Swaziland to take Monica’s mother Polly to Jo’burg and the airport for her return flight to Florida. The Allens planned to return to Swaziland today but during the night and early morning hours Steven began having problems with a kidney stone (Steve has a history of kidney stones). He saw the doctor this morning and if he does not pass the kidney in the next couple of days, the stone will be surgically removed.
Please pray for Steven as he struggles with passing the kidney stone and the pain that comes with this condition. Pray he will soon completely recover!!

Warren Family Prayer Request

Good morning faithful prayer warriors,
As I sit to type this, I still can't believe all that has taken place, and what is about to happen next. We are writing today to update you on our current situation, and ask for your prayers. As most of you know, Lisa's Dad suffered a stroke this past April, and has been in rehabilitation care centers since then. Due to insurance limitations, he will be returning to his home on August 3, 2009. He has been classified as homebound and will need care providers 24/7, as well as Home Health visits to continue his rehab, and prayerfully his recovery. After much prayer, we feel that God is leading us to return to the States now to care for her father.

We are in the process of making plans to return, and should arrive back in Charlotte early August. We will return to Marshville, NC, and be moving her parents into our home there. As you remember, we have had this home on the market to sell for the past year. Now we know the answer as to why it is still ours. God's plans are perfect and we are so thankful for His faithfulness, and for your prayers in this situation. Please remember our family as we prepare to say goodbye to our wonderful team here, and the many Swazi people here we love. As a family, we would also covet your prayers as we begin another new chapter in our lives. Please pray for direction and discernment in all aspects of life as we return, from packing and saying goodbyes here, traveling, moving logistics, preparing our house to handle Dad's special needs, along with placing the children back into school and finding employment again. We have been experiencing such a range of emotions this past week, but we know that God is in control and has everything in His Hands. He was the One who brought us from North Carolina to Swaziland, and provided in such amazing ways that ONLY He could put into place, and we know that He will never leave or forsake us. We will rest in His wonderful promise

It's hard to believe, but August marks one year of service with the International Mission Board. We are so thankful for the opportunity to serve the Lord here in Swaziland through the leadership of this organization, and the support of our Southern Baptist Churches. We can't tell you how much you have meant to us over this past year, and how thankful we are for all of your love, support, prayers and partnership in sharing the Gospel. We have been so humbled to be a part of the Lord's work here, and will hold close in our heart what we have seen and experienced here. God has taught and shown each of us so much here, and for that we are deeply grateful. The harvest is plentiful ... we've all read and heard these words many times, and it is so true ... here and everywhere! Please pray for the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His fields. Please continue to remember the Swazi Team as they faithfully serve the Lord here. You may continue to visit the team website or blog for weekly/monthly prayer requests and updates, www.swaziprayerbytes.blogspot.com or www.swazimissions.org. Thank you for sharing this journey with us, and know that we would love to continue hearing from you and how God is working in your lives. We will continue to use our family blog to share how God is working in our family as well.

Thank you for all the many ways you have ministered to our family and the people of Swaziland, and how YOU have impacted lives for an eternity!!!!
We love you all!

Serving Him together,

~ The Warren Family ~bert, lisa, jessie, matthew & sarah
warrensinafrica@gmail.com


US Mailing Address:
Bert & Lisa Warren6612 Pleasant Hill Church Road
Marshville, NC 28103

Family Blog: www.warrensinswaziland.blogspot.com

Myers Weekly Prayer Letter - July 13, 2009

We returned from Jo’burg on Friday after delivering Hunter and Brinkley at the airport for their return flight to the States. Thursday we began our stateside assignment physicals. We were able to get most of our tests completed and will await the findings this week. We are glad they are over!! Continue to pray for us as we continue to prepare for our departure on the 24th of September. Christmas in Kentucky, what a wonderful thought!!
--Pray we will also be able to secure a vehicle for our time in the states. (September 24th-December 30th).

Loading Up the Portable Baptistery…
We loaded up the portable baptistery, two fifty gallon drums of water and other supplies and headed to our destination, an hour earlier than usual to allow us time to get the baptismal pool set up and before services started for the day. The baptismal candidates gave a brief salvation testimony and a sermon was preached about the Lordship of Jesus Christ. During the service we had a brief interruption as we had to chase away some cows that discovered the baptismal pool and thought it was a drinking trough. Eleven people were baptized. It was a joyous celebration for all those present.
--Pray new Swazi Christians will grow daily in their faith.
--Pray the Lord will bring a spiritual harvest among the Swazi people.
--For the last two years I have been working on a Swazi People prayer booklet titled “So That Christ Might Dwell in Their Hearts” The story Loading up the Portable Baptistery is one of the stories included in this booklet. I was scheduled to meet with the media department at BIMS but the missionary lady I was to see could not make the meeting because of having a baby!! J I did talk to her mother who took the booklet and information. Please pray I will receive the help needed to get the prayer booklet printed. Pray the booklet will be a wonderful tool for prayer support for the Swazi people.

Monica’s mom, Polly Trice has spent several weeks with the Allen family. The Allens are blessed that she was able to visit with Steve, Monica, Lacie and Nathan and see how God is working in Swaziland. Polly leaves on the 17th to return to the USA. Pray for safe travels to her home in Florida.

Saturday the 18th of July, the youth leaders of the Swazi Baptist churches in the Shiselweni Region are scheduled to meet at the Velebantfu Baptist Church (10:00-1:00). Pray all our youth leaders will be able to attend this meeting. Pray a good time of planning and organizing will take place.
--Saturday the 26th of July the Shiselweni Baptist Association will meet at the Velebantfu Baptist Church. Pray for this planning meeting!!

July 17th is Lisa Warren’s birthday. Pray her day will be full of wonderful blessings.
-Please continue to pray for her father’s recovery from a stroke. Please pray for strength, patience and comfort as he continues therapy and is now struggling with kidney stones.

MEDICAL PRAYER CONCERNS:
-Continue to pray for Terry Myers whose cancer is in remission. Pray for his full recovery from cancer.
--Pray for my niece’s husband’s
mother who has been diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. My nephew-in-law reported that the doctors are going to insert a feeding tube before her breathing becomes too bad for the procedure to be done. Pray for the Lord’s strength and courage during this difficult time.
--Pray also for Kerry Harp who continues to recover from a motorcycle accident last year. Pray the Lord will wrap his loving arms around him and Kerry will feel His presence.

AIDS UPDATE:
Continue to pray for the Warrens as they seek direction in future orphan and HIV/AIDS ministry, and also for partnerships with other mission organizations. Meetings are being scheduled with Samaritan’s Purse, and the Red Cross. Pray the Lord’s will be accomplished.

WORD FROM THE OFFICE OF GLOBAL STRATEGY:
-The second summer stateside assignment conference is scheduled for July 12-19. Please pray for the participants to enjoy safe travel, refreshing communion with the Lord, warm fellowship with colleagues, and helpful equipping for their future overseas ministries.

PRAYING FOR OUR TROOPS:
Security for Afghan elections: According to the American Forces Press Service, troops from the 554th Military Police Company out of Stuttgart, Germany, are assessing polling sites in Afghanistan’s Nangarther province for next month’s Afghan elections. A sergeant for the 1st Platoon, 554th Military Police Company said the purpose of the missions is to assess local security posture.

UPCOMING EVENTS:
July 27th is the scheduled quarterly Swazi Team meeting in Nhlangano. Pray for a wonderful time of fellowship and business.

“Learning About the Bible” is the theme for the Shiselweni Region’s 2009 Children’s Camp. The first camp is scheduled for August 14-17 and the second camp August 31-September 2. As preparation continues, please pray the Lord will guide and direct each decision made. Pray the children will begin to look forward to this time of learning and having fun!

Pray for the National Youth Camp August 27-30 for the youth of the Swazi Baptist churches. The venue is undecided. Pray for all the logistics to be completed and for the youth to make plans to attend this important event.

--Because of the concern for charismatic tendencies and practices displayed at the National Easter Services, teaching was scheduled by the Baptist Convention of Swaziland May 22nd-23rd of May. September 11-12 a follow-up teaching is scheduled. Please pray for Wayne Myers and Steven Allen as they prepare for a time of additional information sharing and a question and answer time. Pray for a better understanding of those attending concerning Baptist beliefs. Pray members from our Baptist churches will commit to making their churches stronger in Baptist beliefs as well as Christian beliefs.


A HAPPY DAY
Today will be a happy day
If, first, you find some time to pray;
If, first, alone you go apart
From worldly things, and in your heart
You make resolve to do your best
And then to God you leave the rest.
For God will take the hate and fear
Of yesterday and yesteryear
And in their place He’ll make you feel
The light and love He would reveal;
Yes, this will be a happy day
If, friend, right now you’ll stop and pray.
-Author Unknown


Check these special Swazi sites:
www.swaziprayerbytes.blogspot.com
www.swazimissions.org
To receive a daily list prayer needs of IMB missionaries around the world subscribe to www.subscribe.org or imb@imb.org.

Warren Family Newsletter - July 2009

Warren Family News - July 2009
Interested in following our day-to-day life here in Swaziland,
visit our blog for NEW updates:
www.warrensinswaziland.blogspot.com


As most of you are experiencing some pretty HOT temperatures, and enjoying those beautiful summer nights grilling outside ... it feels more like we should be celebrating Christmas here! Although I must say that I am thankful for the change in temperatures, and not complaining!!!! We pray that each of you had a wonderful 4th of July celebrating the gift of our freedom.

As I sat to begin to write this update to you on all the happenings here in Swaziland, God gently tugged at my heart and had a different plan for this month's newsletter. Today I'd like to share with you what I was reading when He spoke .....

"And then he told them, 'Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.' " Mark 16:15 (NLT)

(The following story was taken from a Proverbs 31 Ministry Devotion I received written by Tracie Miles, www.proverbs31.org)
"I recently heard about a little boy who was involved in a serious accident, and lay in a coma in the hospital with massive internal injuries. The following day,
the little boy's kindergarten teacher was talking to the students about the accident, and asking for suggestions on what they could do for their injured classmate.
Several children made suggestions such as taking food, writing cards and drawing him pictures. Then one little girl suggested that the class could pray for him. A few seconds passed, and then a young boy, who had been intently listening to the discussion, asked quietly, "What is prayer?" The little girl proceeded to tell him how Christians pray to Jesus. The boy looked at her inquisitively for a moment, and then said, "Who is Jesus?" This little girl, along with a few other classmates, proceeded to witness to this young boy, telling him all about Jesus. They shared that He is God's Son and
was sent to earth to die on the cross for our sins so that we could have eternal life and go to Heaven. The teacher stood there with tears in her eyes, as these
precious little children, barely knowing their ABC's, shared the gospel with intense knowledge, passion and commitment, and without any hesitation or fear.
They were proud of their Jesus, and wanted to share God's love and promises with this little boy, who was completely unaware of Jesus.We can be there too, just in a different circumstance, with different people, and at a different time. I was reminded that opportunities for sharing the good news of Jesus are everywhere: around every corner, in the next cubicle, in every neighborhood, and in every classroom. We simply have to grasp the opportunities that are presented. Scripture tells us that everyone will be accountable to God (Romans 14:12), even if they have not heard of Him, which is the basis for global missions work.
As Christians, it is our duty to make sure that people become aware of Jesus.


As I sat and read this story, my heart just melted. It reminded me again of how we need to be continually praying for God's "eyes" every day to see those all around us who are lost or need encouraging, the ones He is calling US to share His message of love with. I couldn't wait to share the story with Bert, and after I finished reading it to him, he shared this story ..........
"It was past noon as Pastor Masuku and I were returning from follow up ministry work and making our way along the long gravel road back home. We came upon four teenage boys who were flagging us for a ride into the next town. (It is very common here to give rides to those who are asking if you are able, so to these young boys it was not uncommon for a perfect stranger to stop and pick them up.) After the four boys squeezed into the back seat and we were on our way, I told them that this ride was going to be different. It was going to cost them to ride. Silence fell among them all as they heard my words. I asked if they would like for me to tell them the cost of the ride, and nervously one of them answered, “Yes”. I explained that the cost of this ride would simply be that they would have to listen to the difference that Christ had made in my life. They listened as I shared my testimony. We were now entering the small town where they needed to go. As I was pulling up to the curb to let them out I asked if there was anyone who would also like to have the assurance of salvation in their life as I had in mine. Instantly one of the boys said, “Yes, I would like to know how!" So, we all got out of the truck, and stood right there on the sidewalk in town. We explained from the Bible how to repent and place your belief in Christ for eternal life in Him. Today, Mandla Tsabedze Nkulalini is our brother in Christ. The cost of his ride cost the same as our ride ... nothing, but to repent and believe, receiving the gift of salvation through the grace and mercy God the Father has for us all."


The people we encounter can be a divine appointment… whether it be here in Africa or back home in the US. It IS our responsibility to share His message of love, we are not responsible for their decision .... ultimately that is their choice.
BUT how can they make this life-changing decision if they've never heard?
May God shine in and through you as you continue to serve Him wherever He places you ....
Praises/Prayer Requests:
Praise the Lord for a wonderful time of ministry with Hunter & Brinkley Johnson (South Roanoke Association Team), and Rev. Steve Willis & Jeremy Allen (West Virginia Team), and for their hearts to serve and share the love of Christ with the people of Swaziland.
Continue to pray for direction in future orphan and HIV/AIDS ministry, and also for partnerships with other mission organizations. Meetings are being scheduled to meet with Samaritan's Purse, and the Red Cross. Pray for the Lord's will to be accomplished.
Pray for the Lord to be glorified through the new structural changes that are being implemented beginning this month by the IMB. (www.imb.org)
Pray for the many new believers throughout Swaziland, as they begin their walk with the Lord. Pray that they would seek Him with all their hearts and be grounded in His word daily.
Continue to pray for Lisa's Dad, Lloyd Claiborne, as he continues to recover from his stroke. Pray for strength and patience as he seeks to regain use of his left side.



Thank you for all your love, support and prayers and the many different ways you are ministering to our family.Serving Him together,

~ The Warren Family ~bert, lisa, jessie, matthew & sarah

As we come to mind in prayer, we ask that you would pray
Colossians 1:9-10 for our family:

"So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding. Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better."


SPECIAL NOTE: We are in the final stages of completing a Ministry DVD to be shared with our prayer partners/churches back in the States. If you are interested in receiving one, please email us your mailing address. We'd like to say a "BIG" thank you to our home church, Euto Baptist, for copying and distributing these DVD's !!!!


Is God calling you to come minister in Swaziland? Is it through a vision trip, prayer walking, revival services, VBS, children/youth camps, homestead visitations, medical missions, evangelism? If you or your church are interested in learning more about short-term mission trips, please email us and we will send you information on our mission trips ... we'd love to see you in Swaziland!
Is He calling you to join the front lines of battle in intercessory prayer for the people of Swaziland, and the Swazi Team?If you feel led to join our prayer team, please email us and we will be sure to forward you our Weekly Team Updates.

Stay in touch, we'd love to hear from you .....

Family Email: warrensinafrica@gmail.com
Team Blog: www.swaziprayerbytes.blogspot.com
Blog: www.warrensinswaziland.blogspot.com

Mailing Address:Bert & Lisa Warrenc/o Steve & Monica AllenPost Office Box 4480Manzini, Swaziland

Myers Weekly Prayer Letter - July 6, 2009

Hunter and Brinkley Johnson (sisters) arrived last Monday (June 29th) in Nhlangano and have spent their time conducting Bible studies and reuniting with old friends. Hopefully their week has been enjoyable and filled with wonderful memories. Tomorrow we will visit one of the Swazi Game Reserves and then Wednesday travel to Jo’burg for their return flight to the States. Pray their return flight will be uneventful and their homecoming will be exciting as they reunite with family and friends in the states.

Saturday the executive committee of the Swaziland Baptist Convention did not meet as planned. A few of the members had to work or had other engagements.

Steve Allen will return from his archeological dig in Israel on Wednesday July 8th. We will return together to Swaziland on Friday July 10th. Continue to pray for Monica, Lacie and Nathan as they look forward to Steve’s return to Swaziland.
******************************


MEDICAL PRAYER CONCERNS:
--Thank you for praying for Lisa Warren’s parents as her dad continues to recover from his stroke. Please pray for strength, patience and comfort as he continues therapy and is now struggling with kidney stones.
-Continue to pray for Terry Myers whose cancer is in remission. Pray for his full recovery from cancer.
--Pray for my niece’s husband’s mother who has been diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Pray for the Lord’s strength and courage during this difficult time.
--Pray also for Kerry Harp who continues to recover from a motorcycle accident last year. Pray the Lord will wrap his loving arms around him and Kerry will feel His presence.
Last week we received our health forms from the Health Travel Agency for our Stateside Assignment physicals and have doctors’ appointments and lab work scheduled for Thursday and Friday of this week. We will be glad to have these appointments behind us!! Pray everything will go well concerning our tests and exams.
-Continue to pray a vehicle will be secured for traveling while in the states-September 24th –December 30th.


SiSwati Word for Woman
There is a siSwati word the Swazis use for wife or woman that means “One who dies without speaking of what she has endured.” This basically means women in Swazi society are supposed to be silent when they are abused. Laws are being drafted against sexual offenses and prosecuting rape cases. Women’s rights to own land, to enter contractual agreements and generally function independently of their husbands and fathers are limited. When men die Swazi women are left without land, money or skills to earn a living.
Pray for the plight of women in Swaziland and for laws to be passed giving more rights and choices.
Pray Swazi men will not be able to abuse women without laws being passed protecting women from such behavior.
--For the last two years I have been working on a Swazi People prayer booklet called “So That Christ Might Dwell in Their Hearts”—I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. Ephesians 3:16-17a The story SiSwati Word for Woman is one of the stories included in this 30 day prayer booklet. Thursday I have a meeting with our media department to discuss the printing of this booklet. Pray this meeting will go well and plans can begin for the printing of this booklet.


AIDS UPDATE:
Recently Bert Warren was given an opportunity to meet with the “phalala” (group of HIV/AIDS sufferers seeking to minister in their community) in Mafucala. Please pray for wisdom and direction as Bert and Pastor Masuku explore avenues to minister to those suffering from this deadly disease in Swaziland. Pray they will walk daily with the Lord, listening for His voice to know which steps to take next. Also pray for future partnerships with other mission organizations that will help many Swazis come to Jesus as their Lord.


WORD FROM THE OFFICE OF GLOBAL STRATEGY:
-The second summer stateside assignment conference is scheduled for July 12-19. Please pray for the participants to enjoy safe travel, refreshing communion with the Lord, warm fellowship with colleagues, and helpful equipping for their future overseas ministries.
-Pray for the July 12 missionary appointment service, which will take place at Urbancrest Baptist Church, Lebanon, Ohio. May this not only be a time to appoint new missionaries, but also a time when scores of people respond to God’s call to International mission service.


PRAYING FOR OUR TROOPS:
Substance Abuse among our Troops: According to the U.S. Army, the number of Army soldiers enrolled in alcohol treatment programs has doubled since 2003. The rate currently is 11.4 per every 1,000 soldiers. Marine Corp statistics show a similar trend, with Marines screening positive for drug and alcohol problems increasing by 12 percent since 2005.


UPCOMING EVENTS:
-Monica Allen’s mother, Polly Trice has spent several weeks with the Allen family. The Allens are blessed that she was able to visit with Steve, Monica, Lacie and Nathan and see how God is working in Swaziland. Polly leaves on the 17th of July to return to the USA. Pray for safe travels to her home in Florida.

July 27th is the scheduled quarterly Swazi Team meeting in Nhlangano. Pray for a wonderful time of fellowship and business.

“Learning About the Bible” is the theme for the Shiselweni Region’s 2009 Children’s Camp. The first camp is scheduled for August 14-17 and the second camp August 31-September 2. As preparation continues, please pray the Lord will guide and direct each decision made. Pray the children will begin to look forward to this time of learning and having fun!


Pray for the National Youth Camp August 27-30 for the youth of the Swazi Baptist churches. The venue is undecided. Pray for all the logistics to be completed and for the youth to make plans to attend this important event.



OVERHEARD IN AN ORCHARD

Said the Robin to the Sparrow;
“I should really like to know
Why these anxious human beings
Rush about and worry so.

Said the Sparrow to the Robin:
“Friend, I think that it must be
That they have no heavenly Father
Such as cares for you and me.”
--Elizabeth Cheney


Check these special Swazi sites:
www.swaziprayerbytes.blogspot.com
www.swazimissions.org
To receive a daily list prayer needs of IMB missionaries around the world subscribe to www.subscribe.org or imb@imb.org.

Swazi Team Monthly Prayer Calendar - July 2009

Wednesday July 1: June 8-20, the Mhlambi Baptist Church held revival services. Recently the main leader left to find employment in South Africa. Imphilo Mamba currently is leading the church. Pray for the Mhlambi Baptist Church under the leadership of Imphilo Mamba to grow spiritually and reach its community for the Lord.

Thursday July 2: Continue to pray for Hunter and Brinkley Johnson serving in Swaziland until the 8th of July. Since their arrival on the 9th of June they have led children and youth Bible studies, the National Youth Retreat and served with other mission organizations. Hunter and Brinkley led a children’s Bible study at a new work area, Lesibovu on two Saturdays with approximately 125 children.

Friday July 3: Thank you for remembering the Warren Family as they began homeschooling last month. They praise the Lord for His direction in this change and how He is granting them precious time teaching the children and opening new doors of ministry. Bert has also been teaching the children’s Bible class each morning, sharing the foundations of faith and God is blessing this time. Please continue to pray for guidance and strength as Bert and Lisa seek to teach the children academically and spiritually.

Saturday July 4: Independence Day!
Today the executive committee of the Baptist Convention of Swaziland meets. Pray this meeting will reflect the desire to glorify the Lord in all that is said and done. Pray for good attendance of those on the executive committee.

Sunday July 5: Continue to pray for all Swazi Baptist churches without pastoral leadership. Pray these churches will remain one body and faithful in serving one another as they patiently wait on the Lord to provide the right person to lead these churches.
Monday July 6: Thank you for praying for the National Youth Leader’s Retreat June 26-27. Pray the youth leaders will share everything they learned with their churches and youth. Pray the youth leaders will stay faithful and strong as they serve the Lord in the Swazi Baptist churches.

Tuesday July 7: Steve Allen returns tomorrow from an archeological dig in Israel with Southeastern Theological Seminary. Pray for Steve to have an enjoyable return journey and even more enjoyable reuniting with Monica, Lacie and Nathan.

Wednesday July 8: Today the Myers, Hunter and Brinkley Johnson leave for Jo’burg for the girls to catch their returning flight to the States. Pray their flight will be uneventful. Pray Hunter and Brinkley will remember the many wonderful blessings received from their time of ministry in Swaziland.

Thursday July 9: For the past six months a group from the Nyamane area has been attending Nhlangano Baptist Church. The Nyamane area is approximately 7 kilometers from Nhlangano and the lack of transportation has made it difficult for regular attendance. There is a desire for the group to organize and begin meeting regularly on Sunday morning. Please pray the Lord will provide His leader to meet with this group on a regular basis. Pray this group will one day be a strong Baptist church.

Friday July 10: The Warrens praise the Lord for volunteers, Rev. Steve Willis and Jeremy Allen from West Virginia that came to serve in June. Church Leadership sessions were held for our pastors and church leaders in the Lubumbo region. Many were able attend this time of teaching and were able to gain more knowledge. Join Bert and Lisa in praying for future teams and field personnel that are praying and seeking the Lord’s will about serving Him in Swaziland.

Saturday July 11: Pray for the Allen family to have strength and wisdom as Steve and Monica balance family and ministry each day. Pray for their walk with the Lord to grow more and more and specifically direction for their family as they teach Lace and Nathan to love the Lord Jesus with all their hearts. Since the weekly church services are conducted in siSwati it is difficult for the children to understand what is being said. Pray Steve and Monica will continue to find ways to make weekly worship at home positive and meaningful for the children, especially Lacie.

Sunday July 12: Pray for the Manzini and Sithwethweni Baptist Churches as they continue to meet concerning the possibility of merging the two congregations. Currently they are working on a joint constitution. Please pray the two churches will be in agreement on a possible leader after the merger. This is the major issue regarding the coming together of the two congregations.

Monday July 13: Thank you for continuing to pray for Lisa’s parents as her dad continues to recover from his stroke. Please pray for strength, patience and comfort as he continues therapy and is now struggling with kidney stones. Praise the Lord that his therapy is going well. He can now move his hand to his face for a short period and is re-learning some basing “living skills.”

Tuesday July 14: Pray for the Swazi Team as they prayerfully work on personnel requests for workers to minister in Swaziland. Even now, pray for the people God wants to send to work with the Swazi Team and Swazi people to further His kingdom.

Wednesday July 15: Monica’s mom, Polly Trice has spent several weeks with the Allen family. The Allens are blessed that she was able to visit with Steve, Monica, Lacie and Nathan and see how God is working in Swaziland. Polly leaves on the 17th to return to the USA. Pray for safe travels to her home in Florida.

Thursday July 16: Because of the concern of charismatic tendencies and practices displayed at the National Easter Services, teaching was scheduled by the Baptist Convention of Swaziland May 22nd-23rd of May. This weekend (July 17th-18th) a follow-up time of teaching is scheduled. Please pray for Wayne Myers and Steven Allen as they prepare for a time of additional information sharing and a question and answer time. Pray for a better understanding of those attending concerning Baptist beliefs. Pray members from our Baptist churches will commit to making their churches stronger in Baptist beliefs as well as Christian beliefs.

Friday July 17: Pray for Lisa Warren today on her birthday!! J
Praise the Lord for this next year that He is allowing Lisa to serve Him in Swaziland. Pray she will remain dependent on Him in every area of life and will be able to manage her responsibilities so she can renew herself emotionally, spiritually and physically each day and be a usable vessel for Him.

Saturday July 18: Recently Bert Warren was given an opportunity to meet with the “phalala” (group of HIV/AIDS sufferers seeking to minister in their community) in Mafucala. Please pray for wisdom and direction as Bert and Pastor Masuku explore avenues to minister to those suffering from this deadly disease in Swaziland. Pray they will walk daily with the Lord, listening for His voice to know which steps to take. Also pray for future partnerships with other mission organizations that will help many Swazis come to Jesus as their Lord.

Sunday July 19: Pray for the new outreach group at Lesibovu, south of Manzini where Steven Allen started a Bible study in February. He is averaging about 50 people each Saturday afternoon and the group is already asking when Sunday services can begin. Pray for God’s wisdom in guiding each step for the Allens with this new group. Even now, pray for leaders that will rise within the group to be trained in the near future. Recently 28 people accepted Jesus Christ during one of the Bible studies.

Monday July 20: Pray for wisdom concerning the next step the Lord wants Steven Allen to take in establishing a new work area. After much prayer and seeing other established evangelical work in the Nkhaba area, God had closed the doors for the Allens to continue the outreach Bible study.

Tuesday July 21: Throughout King Mabusa’s (father of the present King of Swaziland) reign, Muslims were not allowed to own or operate businesses in the country. Unfortunately, the present King does not follow this principle and the Muslim influence is growing in Swaziland. Please pray the number of Muslim followers will not continue to grow. Pray Swazi Christians will take a stand for their faith and their country. Pray Christianity will touch the hearts of the King of Swaziland, his wives and children.

Wednesday July 22: May 22nd Wayne Myers lost his brother and June 14th his sister. Presently his brother Terry is in remission from stage 4 cancer. Please pray for the Myers family as they continue to deal with their losses. Pray Terry will continue to do well.

Thursday July 23: In the last few months members of Swazi Baptist churches in the Shiselweni region not officially married but living with someone have requested Christian weddings. Through the Lord’s conviction, these have seen the need to change their present situations and follow the Lord’s guide for a Christian home. Please pray for many other homes that need to follow these examples and have a Christian wedding. Pray for the youth of Swaziland to say no to tradition and yes to Christ and His way of life.

Friday July 24: Pray for several churches currently trying to obtain plots for building new churches or shifting existing churches. Hawane finally had their plot marked by the community council and will prepare to build very soon. Victory Baptist plans to move a bit closer to the main road and use most of the existing church materials. Ntsintsa Baptist has met in a Red Cross building since it was started in the 1990s and desires to have its own structure. Mphembekati Baptist has to move their existing building due to being too close to a school. Peniel Baptist recently lost their church meeting place and is seeking a new temporary place until they can build their own church structure.

Saturday July 25: Pray for the Swazi Team as “we” search for ways to effectively fight the HIV/AIDS pandemic that is taking the lives of so many Swazis.

Sunday July 26: Tomorrow the Swazi Team will gather in Nhlangano for their quarterly meeting. Pray for a wonderful time of fellowship and business.

Monday July 27: Pray for Bert and Lisa Warren today on their anniversary!! J
Bert and Lisa praise the Lord for another wonderful year together and how He has blessed them through the years. Pray Bert and Lisa will continue to grow closer to the Lord and to each other with passing day.

Tuesday July 28: Pray for the National Youth Camp August 27-30 for all the youth of the Swazi Baptist churches. The venue has not been finalized. Pray for all the logistics to be completed and for the youth to make plans to attend this important event.

Wednesday July 29: Please pray with the help of God’s Word, Swazi youth will understand the True Love Waits message and the impact it could have on the entire country, especially in view of the AIDS pandemic.

Thursday July 30: Time is fast approaching for the Myers’ fourth stateside assignment (Sept. 24th-Dec. 30th). Pray all preparations for their departure from Swaziland and arrival in Kentucky will go well. Pray a vehicle will be secured for traveling in the states.

Friday July 31: “Learning About the Bible” is the theme for the 2009 Shiselweni Children’s Camps. The first camp is scheduled August 14-17 and the second camp August 31-Sept. 2. As preparation continues, please pray the Lord will guide and direct each decision made. Pray the children will begin to look forward to this time of learning and having fun!

Check these special Swazi sites:
www.swaziprayerbytes.blogspot.com
www.swazimissions.org.

Myers Weekly Prayer Letter - June 29, 2009

Thank you for praying for the National Youth Leaders’ Retreat last weekend, June 26-27. Pray the youth leaders will share everything they learned with their churches and youth. Pray the youth leaders will stay faithful and strong as they serve the Lord in the Swazi Baptist churches.


We received wonderful news from Wayne’s family last week. Scans taken on Terry Myers’ cancer sites last week showed no cancer!! He is now in remission. Thank each of you for praying for his healing and recovery. Please continue to pray for his total healing from cancer.
*********************

Hunter and Brinkley Johnson (sisters) arrive today in the Shiselweni Region. They plan to lead youth Bible studies in several of the Swazi Baptist churches in the region. They will stay with us until next Wednesday (8th of July) when we will travel to Jo’burg for their return flight to the states. Pray they will have a wonderful week of fellowship with the Swazi youth as well as sharing God’s Word.

Saturday the executive committee of the Swaziland Baptist Convention meets. Pray this meeting will reflect the desire to glorify the Lord in all that is said and done. Pray for good attendance of those on the executive committee.

Continue to pray for Steven Allen participating in an archeological dig in Israel with the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He will return to Swaziland on the 10th of July. Pray for Monica and the children during Steve’s absence. Pray Steve will have a wonderful time of holiday of being refreshed doing something that is a passion of his heart.
Because of the concern of charismatic tendencies and practices displayed at the National Easter Services, teaching was scheduled by the Baptist Convention of Swaziland on the 22nd-23rd of May. Steven Allen taught about the “Biblical Response to the Prosperity Gospel” and Wayne taught on a “Biblical Response to Speaking in Tongues.” There was a good response and attendance from leaders from the Swazi Baptist churches and a desire for additional teaching was voiced. July 18th-19th, a follow-up time of teaching is scheduled. Please pray for Wayne and Steve as they prepare for a time of additional information sharing and a question and answer time. Pray for a better understanding of those attending concerning Baptist beliefs. Pray members of our Baptist churches will commit to making their churches stronger in Baptist beliefs as well as Christian beliefs.


“Learning About the Bible” is the theme for the Shiselweni Region’s 2009 Children’s Camp. The first camp is scheduled for August 14-17 and the second camp August 31-September 2. As preparation continues, please pray the Lord will guide and direct each decision made. Pray the children will begin to look forward to this time of learning and having fun!


July 27th is the scheduled quarterly Swazi Team meeting in Nhlangano. Pray for a wonderful time of fellowship and business.


Pray for the National Youth Camp August 27-30 for the youth of the Swazi Baptist churches. The venue is undecided. Pray for all the logistics to be completed and for the youth to make plans to attend this important event.


MEDICAL PRAYER CONCERNS:
--Thank you for praying for Lisa Warren’s parents as her dad continues to recover from his stroke. Please pray for strength, patience and comfort as he continues therapy and is now struggling with kidney stones.
--Pray for my niece’s husband’s mother who has been diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Pray for the Lord’s strength and courage during this difficult time.
--Pray also for Kerry Harp who continues to recover from a motorcycle accident last year. Pray the Lord will wrap his loving arms around him and Kerry will feel His presence.


AIDS UPDATE:
I Am Dying
The missionary stood by the bed of an emaciated man whom she had known for years. He had been a leader in one of the Swazi Baptist churches. His wife had died several months prior to this visit after being sick for a long time. The missionary looked into his face that was devoid of expression. Someone asked him how he was. Softly he answered, “I am dying.” It was just a matter of time when his suffering was over. Many people in Swaziland are suffering from AIDS. The battle rages as Swazis continue to live lives that spread the disease. Our society is in trouble and we find ourselves being carried away into a vortex of suffering, shame, guilt and death.
Pray the Swazi people will understand their lifestyles are causing premature deaths and by living as our Savior shows us, we don’t have to die.


PRAYING FOR OUR TROOPS:
Substance Abuse among or Troops: According to the U.S. Army, the number of Army soldiers enrolled in alcohol treatment programs has doubled since 2003. The rate is currently 11.4 per every 1,000 soldiers. Marine Corp statistics show a similar trend, with Marines screening positive for drug or alcohol problems increasing by 12 percent since 2005.
Time is fast approaching when we will be taking our 4th stateside assignment, September 24-December 30.
Pray we will receive all the information needed to schedule appointments in time to have our physicals completed by the middle of August. The timing of these exams will not affect our departure for the states but might our departure from the states.
-There always is a need for prayer in obtaining a vehicle to drive while stateside. Please pray a vehicle will be secured for traveling while in the states.
-Pray for peace concerning leaving our home and Wolf for three months.


Check these special Swazi sites:
www.swaziprayerbytes.blogspot.com
www.swazimissions.org
To receive a daily list prayer needs of IMB missionaries around the world subscribe to www.subscribe.org or imb@imb.org.



BE STRONG
Be strong!
We are not here to play, to dream , to drift;
We have hard work to do, and loads to lift.
Shun not the struggle; face it.
‘Tis God’s gift.

Be strong!
Say not the days are evil—who’s to blame?
And fold the hands and acquiesce—O shame!
Stand up, speak out, and bravely,
In God’s name.

Be strong!
It matters not how deep entrenched the wrong,
How hard the battle goes, the day how long,
Faint not, fight on!
Tomorrow comes the song.
--Maltbie D. Babcock

The Lord stood by my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory for ever and ever. Amen 2 Timothy 4:17-18

Myers Weekly Prayer Letter - June 22, 2009

In the last few months, we have been blessed by Swazi ladies attending our Swazi Baptist churches who requested to have a Christian wedding ceremony. These ladies were either living with the father of their children or had been married in a Swazi traditional ceremony (neither man attended a Swazi Baptist church but did consent to a Christian wedding). As a sign of their faithfulness to follow the Lord, they wanted to raise their children in a “Christian home.” Tuesday, we had another such visit by a former student of Wayne (when he taught Religious Education at Eric Rosenberg in the 90s). He arrived at the house at 12:30 and for over an hour plans were made for his Christian marriage. Both he and his wife say they are Christians but because of pressure from his family, they were married traditionally a couple of years ago. Now, they want to make it right. When the planning dust settled, a date and venue for the wedding were made: September 5th at the Regional Education Office in Nhlangano. (They wanted to have the wedding in my yard, but I had to say NO!! Can you imagine over 100 Swazis congregated in my yard and going in and out of my house to use the bathroom or whatever? Please pray for Duma (duma is the siSwati word for thunder) Dlamini and his wife as they commit their lives and home to the Lord. Pray their Christian wedding will be a witness to others in their community and family members.
-Please pray for many other homes that need to follow this example and have a Christian wedding. Pray also for the Swazi youth to say no to tradition and say to yes to Christ and live as he would have his children live.

Thank you for praying for the second week of revival services at the Mhlambi Baptist Church. Attendance was great even though some of the community youth tried to disrupt the nightly services with loud talking and unruly behavior. (This is so typical of revivals in the rural churches). Several individuals made decisions to follow the Lord!! Overall, the revival was a wonderful boast for the Mhlambi Baptist Church.
- Continue to pray the Mhlambi Baptist Church under the leadership of Imphilo Mamba will grow spiritually and reach its community for the Lord.
-There is a great need to develop leaders for the children and youth ministries. Pray these leaders will develop from the Mhlambi Baptist Church congregation.

Hunter and Brinkley Johnson (sisters) had a wonderful week working in the Manzini and Hhohho regions. Today they join the Warrens at Tshaneni and will minister with the Warrens until the 26th of June. Pray for Hunter and Brinkley this week as they minister in the Lubumbo region of Swaziland. Pray for continued good health and the joy of serving the Lord in Swaziland!!

Steve Allen left yesterday (Sunday June 21) to participate in the planned archeological dig in Israel with the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Pray for his safety as he travels and a wonderful time of holiday of being refreshed doing something that is a passion of his heart. Pray for Monica and the children during Steve’s absence.

We enjoyed a time of fun and fellowship with the Swazi Team, Polly Trice and several little girls who attended Lacie Allen’s birthday party on Saturday in Mbabane. The weather was beautiful and it was good to be able to sit down and chat with everyone.
This evening I will be meeting with Annah Thwala to plan the 2009 Shiselweni Children’s Camp. We were scheduled to have the camp the week of August 31-September 5, but will have to make adjustments because of the September 5th Dlamini wedding. Theme of the camp is “Learning About the Bible.” Pray we will be able to find a good time to have the two camps. Pray also as we decide on the two camp venues.

June 26-27 is the National Youth Leader’s Retreat (this weekend). Pray for this important retreat for all youth leaders of the Swazi Baptist churches. Hunter Johnson will be the main speaker. Pray God will move in a mighty way among the hearts of our youth leaders.

Because of the concern of charismatic tendencies and practices displayed at the National Easter Services, teaching was scheduled by the Baptist Convention of Swaziland on the 22nd-23rd of May. Steven Allen taught about the “Biblical Response to the Prosperity Gospel” and Wayne taught on a “Biblical Response to Speaking in Tongues.” There was a good response and attendance from leaders from the Swazi Baptist churches and a desire for additional teaching was voiced. On July 18th and 19th, a follow-up time of teaching is scheduled. Please pray for Wayne and Steve as they prepare for a time of additional information sharing and a question and answer time. Pray for a better understanding of those attending concerning Baptist beliefs. Pray members of our Baptist churches will commit to making their churches stronger in Baptist beliefs as well as Christian beliefs.

We want to say thank you to everyone who prayed and sent their sympathies on the death of Wayne’s sister JoAnn last week. We so appreciated your thoughtfulness. Please continue to pray for the family as they deal with their loss. Continue to pray for Terry who is doing well, but is still considered to have stage 4 cancer.

Yesterday as I walked back to the house from attending worship services at the Nhlangano Baptist Church, one of the ladies of the church joined me. We talked about different subjects but as we approached my gate, I mentioned that I thought the plot on the left side of our house had been sold (the Nhlangano Baptist had used the lot for revival services in December). It had been freshly mowed and a couple of months ago the owners asked Wayne if the Nhlangano Baptist Church was interested in purchasing the plot. The owners had been offered 450,000 emalangeni (1 dollar to 8 emalangeni) but, they would let the church have it for E415,000. (Needless to say on behalf of the church, Wayne had to decline their offer.) My friend commented that the Muslims probably purchased the land since they were ones in town that could afford to pay E450,000 for the plot. I voiced my concern of all the businesses that were now being operated by Indian Muslims. She said it was because the King now allowed them to come into the county and operate businesses. His father King Mabusa (died in 1982) refused to allow Muslims to operate businesses in Swaziland. Please pray the Muslim faith will not become stronger and Swazi Christians will take a stand for their faith and their country. Pray the King will see the harm that can come from allowing those that follow the way of Islam to work and settle in Swaziland.

Time is fast approaching when we will be taking our 4th stateside assignment, September 24-December 30.
Pray we will receive all the information needed to schedule appointments in time to have our physicals completed by the middle of August. The timing of these exams will not affect our departure for the states but might our departure from the states.
-There always is a need for prayer in obtaining a vehicle to drive while stateside. Please pray a vehicle will be secured for traveling while in the states.
-Pray for peace concerning leaving our home and Wolf for three months.

Allen's June Prayer Update

Dear Prayer Partners,

We wanted to send out another prayer update for the month of June to touch base with our prayer supporters about several different items. It has been a busy month but a great one, too.

Highlights:
- Four people were baptized at Hawane Baptist Church on June 14. One of the youth guys, Kuseni in the photo, told Monica after the service that "he had just had a funeral. He was now dead to self and alive in Christ". He said this with the biggest smile on his face! Praise the Lord! Another one of the folks that was baptized was an elderly lady, Make Dlamini. She has been wanting to be baptized for a long time but has been too sick. She was thrilled she was able to do so this time. Pray for these four people as they seek to grow each day in the Lord.

- The new work area of Lesibovu is going to grow each week. Today, there was about 140 people at the study, the highest attendance thus far. Hunter and Brinkley both taught with the children as there were over 100 kids ready and eager to hear about God. The people were all waiting for Steven, Hunter, Brinkley, Jane and Maria when they arrived....wow, talk about being ready and hungry to hear the word of God! Continue to pray for this Bible study and for God's direction in starting a Sunday morning service time in July.

- After waiting for many, many months, Hawane Baptist Church is finally having their plot of land marked so they can begin to build their own building. It has been a long process with the community council and local chiefs to reach this point. Pray for tomorrow, June 21, as the church receives their piece of land to start their own church building. It is an exciting time for this church. Attached is a photo of the women of Hawane Baptist Church.

- Gogo Polly (Monica's mom) arrived in Swaziland on June 13 and will be with us until July 17. The kids are way excited that Gogo Polly is here with them and we all are enjoying our visit with her. Continue to pray for this special time with family and opportunities to join in on various ministries around Swaziland.

- Hunter and Brinkley Johnson (sisters) arrived in Swaziland on June 10 and will be in the country until July 8. They have been serving with our family in our ministry area and doing a fantastic job. They will be serving with the Warren family in the upcoming week and then joining the Myers family the following week. Hunter has been with our family for the past two summers so we feel like we have welcomed family back to be with us. Continue to pray for their time with our mission team and all God has planned for their lives while faithfully serving Him in Swaziland.

- Lacie turned five years old on June 17. It is hard to believe she is already five years old...whew! Today, we celebrated with Dora the Explorer party (thanks to Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church in Tennessee for sending us the supplies for the party) and had a blast! Attached are photos of Lacie with Gogo Polly and mission family taken at Lacie's birthday party.

- Tomorrow, June 21, Steven leaves for his archeology trip to Israel. Pray for safety as he travels, great times of digging with folks with the same passion, renewed strength by being away from ministry and special times with the Lord. We will miss him greatly but very happy for this unique opportunity for him. Also, we want to say, Happy Father's Day to Steven - you are truly a blessing in our lives and an amazing father to Lacie and Nathan!!!

- Next weekend is our National Youth Leader's Retreat at Manzini Baptist Church. The main speaker is Hunter Johnson and the theme is "The Leader God Uses....". Pray all our youth leaders are able to attend this important retreat especially for them. Pray for all the logistics to go smoothly behind the scenes.

- Continue to pray for Wayne Myers and his family. Wayne's brother, Larry, passed away in late May and this past week, he lost his sister, JoAnn, to cancer. It is difficult to be away from family during difficult times. Wayne and Barbara Myers are getting ready for their stateside time starting in September - December 2009.

We will keep you updated on other needs and events as we are able to do so. We covet your prayers for our family and ministry in Swaziland. God is moving and we are joining in HIS work and in HIS time!

***Remember, we live in Africa and there is no guarantee that our e-mails are received or even sent out correctly. If you have written and not heard from us, please write again. We would rather receive e-mails two times than not at all.***

Family Blog - www.allensinafrica.blogspot.com - leave us a comment so we know you stopped by to visit!
Skype - allensinafrica
Monica is part of Facebook so if you are on, let her know.

Blessings and love,
Steven, Monica, Lacie and Nathan Allen
IMB missionaries to Swaziland

Lacie with Hunter and Brinkley Johnson on her birthday
Lacie with her Gogo Polly (Gogo is siSwati for grandmother) visiting from the USA...yum, yum, enjoying her cake!

Baptism service at Hawane Baptist Church - Steven baptizing Kuseni Jele

The Baptist Mission of Swaziland mission family - Wayne and Barbara Myers, Bert, Lisa, Jessie, Matthew, and Sarah Warren and Steven, Monica, Lacie and Nathan Allen

Myers Weekly Prayer Letter - June 15, 2009

Rainy and cold conditions began the revival services at Mhlambi on Monday. With the weather being so disagreeable it was felt perhaps there would be few people to come to worship. But, to everyone amazement approximately 60 people sat within the tent and listened as God’s Word was preached. The wintery weather continued until Thursday evening and each service was blessed with the attendance of many brave souls dressed in many layers prepared for the cold and dampness of the night. Thank you for praying.
Revival services will continue this week at Mhlambi and end on Saturday. Please pray for the two men preaching this week. Pray the Lord will prepare them spiritually and physically for another week of evangelistic services for the people of the Mhlambi community.
- Continue to pray for the Mhlambi Baptist Church under the leadership of Imphilo Mamba will grow spiritually and reach its community for the Lord.
-There is a great need to develop leaders for the children and youth ministries. Pray these leaders will develop from the Mhlambi Baptist Church congregation.

Pray for Lacie Allen on Wednesday as she celebrates her birthday!!

Hunter and Brinkley Johnson (sisters) arrived in Mbabane on the 10th (Wednesday). The girls will minister with the Allens until the 22nd of June leading children and youth Bible studies; working with Great Commission Groups and teaching Sunday School at a couple of churches. Pray for Hunter and Brinkley this week as they minister in the Hhohho and Manzini regions. Pray for continued good health and the joy of serving the Lord in Swaziland!!

Remember Sunday the 21st of June is Father’s Day!! Give your Dad a big hug or a big phone call!!

On the 21st of June, Steve Allen will leave on an archeological dig in Israel with the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Pray for his safety as he travels and a wonderful time of holiday of being refreshed doing something that is a passion of his heart.

June 26-27 is the National Youth Leader’s Retreat. Pray for this important retreat for all youth leaders of the Swazi Baptist churches. Hunter Johnson will be the main speaker. Pray God will move in a mighty way among the hearts of our youth leaders.

We received this email this morning from Patsy, Wayne’s sister:
JoAnn (Wayne’s sister) passed away this morning at 3:30 (Sunday 14, 2009 ) She grinned when I told her that you had called and the girls were pleased. She will be cremated with a small memorial for neighbors and friends and then brought home (from Indiana) to Ky. She ended up going peacefully so don't worry about that. Please pray for the family during this time of another loss. It has been less than a month since Larry (Wayne’s brother) passed away. Please pray for Wayne’s brother, Terry as he continues to battle stage 4 cancer.

The Warren family would like to thank you
for continuing to remember Lisa’s parents in your prayers as her Dad recovers from a recent stroke. There has been a change in his rehab facility. He has now been moved to Autumn Care in Nashville, NC. This past week he was able to pass his swallowing test which will allow him to eat food by himself. Please continue to pray for Lloyd Claiborne as he continues to recuperate from his stroke.

Because of the concern of charismatic tendencies and practices displayed at the National Easter Services, teaching was scheduled by the Baptist Convention of Swaziland on the 22nd-23rd of May. Steven Allen taught about the “Biblical Response to the Prosperity Gospel” and Wayne taught on a “Biblical Response to Speaking in Tongues.” There was a good response and attendance from leaders from the Swazi Baptist churches and a desire for additional teaching was voiced. On July 1lth and 12th, a follow-up time of teaching is scheduled. Please pray for Wayne and Steve as they prepare for a time of additional information sharing and a question and answer time. Pray for a better understanding of those attending concerning Baptist beliefs. Pray members of our Baptist churches will commit to making their churches stronger in Baptist beliefs as well as Christian beliefs.

PRAYING FOR OUR TROOPS:
Expanded Troop Presence in Afghanistan: Ten thousand U.S. Marines have poured into Afghanistan in the last month and a half, seeking to transform their tiny base located in the center of that nation’s most violent province, Helmand, into a veritable fortress. They are part of the additional 21,000 troops ordered into the area by President Obama to combat the Taliban. www.presidentialprayerteam.org

If you loved the courageous stories of faith from God’s servants in the best-selling book Voices of the Faithful, you won’t want to miss continuing stories of triumph and perseverance. Voices of the Faithful Book Two is coming in September.
--In Book Two of this uplifting series, you will read stories of answered prayer, sacrifice, amazing conversions and miracles, adversity, encouragement, just to name a few.
--Because of your love for the first book, the IMB will give you a free copy of Book One with your advanced purchase of Book Two. Use Book One as a gift for someone to start them on the grand adventure of world missions.
This offer will expire on August 7th, so order soon.
Click here or call the IMB at 800-866-3621 to pre-order the VOICES ONE/TWO ADVANCE PACKAGE for $11.95 plus tax. Quantity discounts are available.

PLEASE PRAY FOR THIS IMB EVENT:
Candidate Interview Conference June 15-19: Approximately 100 new missionary candidates—short-term and long-term—will be in Richmond for this exciting conference. Ask God to bless them with a clear understanding of His call on their lives. Pray that staff will have a special Spirit-led sensitivity to their individual needs and will be able counselors for them.

Time is fast approaching when we will be taking our 4th stateside assignment, September 24-December 30.
Pray we will receive all the information needed to schedule appointments in time to have our physicals completed by the middle of August. The timing of these exams will not affect our departure for the states but might our departure from the states.
-There always is a need for prayer in obtaining a vehicle to drive while stateside. Please pray a vehicle will be secured for traveling while in the states.
-Pray for peace concerning leaving our home and Wolf for three months.

Check these special Swazi sites:
www.swaziprayerbytes.blogspot.com
www.swazimissions.org

“Man,” said one Christian Scotsman to another, “I got a wonderful text in my reading lesson today.” “Oh,” said his friend, “let me hear it.” “Well,” responded the other enthusiastically, “the text is Psalm 56:3, and it says, ‘What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee.’” “Very good,” agreed his friend, smiling, “but I got a better text in my reading lesson, for in Isaiah 12:2, I read, ‘I will trust, and not be afraid.’”
-Moody Monthly