FEBRUARY 2011 PRAYER CALENDAR
The Swazi Team
Tuesday February 1: The Allens’ crate from the states should arrive the first of February in South Africa. Pray they will have no difficulties getting their crate from South Africa and into Swaziland.
Wednesday February 2: Kym Pennington, True Love Waits International consultant, spent two weeks in Swaziland January 15-27. She was able to meet all the missionaries on the Swazi Team and become acquainted with pastors, True Love Waits presenters, adults and youth interested in helping with the True Love Waits ministry and make plans to return to Swaziland to conduct 3-day True Love Wait training (May 16-30 and October 16-30). Kym will also be getting married on the 18th of June!! Pray for Kym as she begins a new chapter in her life with her marriage. Pray for the beginning of a very strong True Love Waits program in Swaziland with presenters committed to the TLW message as well as TLW ministry in their country.
Thursday February 3: During a Bible study at Luwhhawhhaweni, an older lady of the group shared that the man she lived with for 35 years was not her husband since they had not been legally married and she did not carry his surname. His family was concerned that the ancestors would be very angry with her and the family if she tries to be buried in her “husband’s” plot and not have his surname. The family was encouraging her to marry her son so she would have the name and could be buried in the family plot and everyone (including the ancestors) would be happy. She asked the leader of the Bible study if this would be okay. Being a new Christian and unsure of so many things concerning her faith, this lady (like so many Swazis) struggles to do what is right in a society that is controlled by appeasing the ancestors and adhering to many culture practices that are unchristian. Pray Swazi Christians will understand the customs and traditions that are a normal part of life are not always acceptable to the Lord. Pray they will study more and learn about the Lord and His ways.
Friday February 4: January 13, training for teachers of the Swazi Baptist churches preschools was conducted at the Phuzumoya Baptist Church. Five preschools were represented. Supplies were given as well as training on the use of the teaching aids. Pray these teachers will commit to provide the best preschool education for the children attending and this will be a great year for everyone.
Saturday February 5: Today the executive committee of the Swaziland Baptist Convention meets to continue the planning of the 2011 Good Friday/ Resurrection (Easter) Services April 21-24. Pray for the members of this committee as they actively plan this very important event. The venue needs to be finalized soon. May the Lord be glorified in all the planning.
Sunday February 6: Pray for Todd and Deborah Hoskins as they seek God’s leading concerning support and involvement in a Swazi Baptist church in the Manzini area. Pray they will continue to adjust to living in Swaziland.
Monday February 7: Praise the Lord for the lady Steven Allen met while waiting in lines at the government office for over 8 hours one day that accepted the Lord! No fun waiting in lines but how exciting to know God had Steve where he wanted Him to be and a life forever changed.--Pray for several other folks that have recently accepted Jesus into their lives!! Pray each will grow in his/her walk with the Lord and will stay involved in a local church.
Tuesday February 8: There are very few children attending the Vuvalane Baptist Church. Some live with their grandmothers who faithfully attend but do not encourage or help the young ones dress each Sunday morning. Children’s Sunday School class was begun in January. Pray soon the Vuvulane Baptist Church will have a strong children’s program that will ensure a strong future for this struggling church. Pray for the youth/children outreach event planned for March 13 (9:00-3:00). Pray many will come and a “new beginning” will start for the Vuvulane Baptist Church.
Wednesday February 9: Pray for Monica Allen today on her birthday!!
Continue to pray for the Allen family as they seek to balance family and ministry. Now that Lacie and Nathan are in school, pray Steve and Monica will use their time wisely and look for opportunities to minister to folks everyday.
Thursday February 10: Praise the Lord Lacie and Nathan Allen are loving their new schools and starting this new school year well. Continue to pray for a great school year, their teachers, great friends and opportunities to share the love of Jesus with those around them.
Friday February 11: The rains continue to be good throughout Swaziland. Unfortunately abundance of rain in some parts of the country has damaged crops. Pray families affected by the large amounts of rain will be able to receive supplements to their food supplies. Pray many Swazis will have wonderful crops and gardens this year!!
Saturday February 12: Please continue to pray for members of the IMB Presidential Search Committee as they seek God’s man to lead our organization.--Thank you for contributing to the 2010 Lottie Moon Christmas offering. Members of the Swazi Team have been enriched, not only by the fruits of labors but by your faithful prayer support and giving.
Sunday February 13: Sunday January 23, missionary Wayne Myers was blessed when on short notice was asked to preach and lead the worship services at the Luwhhawhhaweni Baptist Church. As usual Wayne arrived at the small house that hosts this congregation to a few but by the time the services ended the room was full and 5 people committed to follow Jesus Christ. We are thankful for this wonderful blessing. Please pray this small church will be a strong witness to a community that is in bondage to unchristian Swazi traditions and culture.
Monday February 14: HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!!
Pray for the controversy and conflicts at the Victory Baptist Church due to leadership by one person. It is causing members of the congregation to leave the church. Pray for the Allens as they seek the Lord’s direction with this sticky situation.
Tuesday February 15: The Swazi Team has asked prayer many times for Swazi Christians to be faithful to the teachings of the Bible especially with regard to God’s plan for marriage and Christian living. With sadness in our hearts we continue hear of those who fall prey to culture and the desires of the flesh. One of the youth trained to present the True Love Waits message and a gifted children’s Sunday School teacher is now pregnant and not married. What a disappointment and also a great concern of contacting HIV/AIDS. Even though Swaziland is being devastated by the AIDS pandemic, the population lives as though there is no AIDS. Pray the message of abstinence, and most especially the power of Jesus Christ behind the message, will permeate the hearts of the Swazi people.
Wednesday February 16: Pray for the new ladies’ disciple group that began on the 19th of January (meets every Wednesday) at the Peace Baptist Church. Over the next several weeks their study will be on 1 Corinthians. May this time be an encouragement to these ladies as they continue to faithfully serve each Sunday without consistent pastoral leadership.
Thursday February 17: 1Timothy 2:1-2 commands us to pray for kings and those in authority. Please pray the King of Swaziland, his wives and children will come to understand what it means to be a Christian. Pray their lives will show the love of Christ.
Friday February 18: In Manzini a Muslim mosque is nestled amidst businesses and schools. The structure draws attention to those that pass by and is another indication of the rapid growth of the Muslim faith in Swaziland. Pray Christians will continue to see the urgency to witness to their loss friends and neighbors. May the spread of Islam be halted throughout Swaziland.
Saturday February 19: Today is Phil Hoskins (Todd’s father) birthday. Pray he will have a great day!!--Please pray for Deborah Hoskins and family who lost two great-uncles in January. Pray for peace and comfort during this time of loss.
Sunday February 20: The Shiselweni Baptist Association met on the 15th of January. Their next scheduled meeting is March 19th. Pray for this association as it meets regularly. Pray the meetings will be conducted in the spirit of unity and much will be accomplished for the Kingdom of God.
Monday February 21: “I plan to return every year as long as I can!” These words were spoken by a volunteer team member who ministered in Swaziland in 2010. The Swazi Team is so thankful for volunteers who give of their time to help evangelize and disciple Swazis. February 21-March 3, a volunteer team from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina will minister in the Shiselweni region. Plans include an overnight ladies’ retreat, weekend youth retreat and homestead visitation and Bible studies. Pray the ministry of this team will touch many Swazi hearts. Pray the sharing of spiritual fruit will reap great rewards.
Tuesday February 22: Pray for the young (unsaved) man Steven Allen recently met on the way home from Lesibovu who is seeking to learn more about God. He has shown a desire to attend the weekly Bible study at Lesibovu that meets on Saturdays. Pray this young man will see the need to be in church with God’s people studying God’s Word.
Wednesday February 23: The Swazi Team received confirmation of 100 BGR buckets for AIDS ministry in Swaziland. We are so thankful for the buckets that will help AIDS victims have dignity and hope and give them an opportunity to see and hear God’s love for them. Pray the Team will soon receive the buckets. Pray for the Lord’s guidance as the Team begins ministering to the many hurting victims of AIDS and their families.If your church is interested in helping pack a BGR bucket, contact this website www.inhomecarekit.org. Your help is much needed and will be much appreciated!!
Thursday February 24: SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN UNENGAGED PEOPLES: Within the desert country of Botswana, the following six people groups--the Lozi, the Mbukushu, the Ndebele, the Pedi, the Shona and the Yeye—have two things in common. First, they are relatively small, all with a population between 10,000 to 23,000. Second, each of these people groups is “unengaged,” which means that no national church, IMB missionary, or SBC volunteer team is specifically taking the Gospel to them. Please pray these six small people groups within Botswana will hear of the Lord’s plan for their lives. Pray someone will take the Gospel to them.
Friday February 25: On the 20th of March the Velebantfu Baptist Church will conduct a special licensing service for their pastor Lizwe Nsibandze. Pastor Nsibandze has led this church for many years and is a strong leader and committed Christian. Pray for the planning of this very special service. Pray the members of the Velebantfu Baptist Church will continue to support their pastor as he leads the congregation.
Saturday February 26: Pray for the volunteer team from Clear Creek Bible College in Pineville, Ky., serving with the Allens in March. The group will lead revival services, homestead visitations and Bible studies in two specific areas of ministry. Pray for the team’s preparations and for each team member to desire to accept all the Lord has planned for them.
Sunday February 27: It is the desire of many of our Swazi Baptist pastors and leaders to be trained in the work in which the Lord has called them. Providing this training is a big undertaking that will help strengthen our Swazi Baptist pastors/leaders and churches. The first Rural Bible Training School for 2011is scheduled for May 10-13 and the second school is September 20-23. Pray for the Swazi Team as logistics and curriculum are planned. Pray the participants will come with a heart to learn and be trained. Pray wonderful blessings will touch the heart of each participant.
Monday February 28: March 30-April 4, 2011 is the scheduled Cluster Strategy Meeting at the Birchwood Conference Center in Johannesburg, South Africa. The First Baptist Church of Orlando will provide volunteers to work with the missionary children (MK-missionary kids) program and lead in the worship services. Your missionaries on the Swazi Team will attend this meeting. Pray for the continued preparations/logistics for this meeting. Pray for spiritual preparedness for the missionaries attending, the volunteer ministering and the leadership leading.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
Myers Weekly Prayer Letter
Love to pray. Feel often during the day the need for prayer, and take trouble to pray. Prayer enlarges the heart until it is capable of containing God’s gift of himself. Ask and seek and your heart will grow big enough to receive him. - Mother Teresa
Saturday Wayne received a phone call from the young man that preaches at the Luwhhawhhaweni Baptist Church each Sunday that he would be unable to attend Sunday due to his job. This young man is not the pastor of the church but a member of the Phuzumoya Baptist Church. He comes every week because the pastor is in a situation that the community views of inappropriate. His family sent him to live in the home of his deceased brother’s wife to care for the property when she is not there which is often since her job is in Big Bend. Even though the couple claims not to have a sexual relationship, to the community this is not how a pastor should live. He does not have a job and until he can provide for himself he can not leave this home even though he knows he needs to have a good witness. Therefore Mandla comes every week to preach to the congregation. The last time we had attended Luwhhawhhaweni, we had to wait thirty minutes until someone arrived to unlock the small house that serves as a church. It was a rather warm day with few in attendance. Sunday was also a very warm day but with many in attendance. At the end of the service five people came forward to accept Jesus as their Savior. What a blessing for these and this little church and what a blessing for Wayne to have a part in this service. Please pray for these to understand what it truly means to follow the Lord Jesus Christ. Pray for the situation with the pastor—he will be able to find a job that will take care of his needs and still lead this congregation. Pray the church will be a lighthouse in a community that lives in darkness.
I did not attend Luwhhawhhaweni on Sunday with Wayne but felt my place was at the Vuvulane Baptist Church. This church also meets in a home in the middle of sugar cane fields. For several months we have taken a lady (Gertrude) that lives on the farm and works in the office with us to church. She was baptized at the last baptism service at Vuvulane and loves to read her Bible and attend worship services. When we arrived Sunday to the church, we stayed and Wayne left for Luwhhawhhaweni. It was a dismal group that sat on the floor in the lounge (living room) of that home waiting for people to come. We finally started singing and by the time Sunday School had ended we had approximately 15 people. For the last several weeks there have been very few children attending. Even the children on the homestead that hosts the church do not come. The children on the homestead next to the church do not come either even though their grandmother is there every Sunday. When asked why the children do not come, she says, “Oh they didn’t have any clean clothes. I didn’t get the chance to wash them.” The host grandmother says, “I tell them to get ready to come to church but they do not do it.” These children will play outside during our worship time causing the children inside the church to want to come out and play with them. Also the children do not have a Sunday School class on Sunday morning because it is too far for the teacher to come every Sunday. The normal noisy children were not noisy Sunday, but it was two of the children that had been inside that went outside supposedly to go to the bathroom that were in the midst of beginning to be quite disruptive. I sat there for a few seconds. I did say, “Lord I won’t do anything you do not orchestrate.” But to be honest I don’t know if it was the Lord’s urging or whether I just had enough of this behavior, but before I knew it I had my shoes on marching outside to bring those children inside!! Through all of this I knew something needed to be done to encourage the Mavusos (pastor) who were quite discouraged and to ensure the church has a future. Without the spiritual instruction of the children there is no future. I prayed concerning this situation and we invited the Mavusos over Tuesday night to talk. They were more than happy to accept any help we could offer. From this meeting, I committed to leading the children’s Sunday School. Gertrude will help me and when I can’t be there she will continue with this ministry. Hopefully I will be able to train her to accept this ministry as her own. Wayne feels led to start working with the youth, although at this point I only know of one. A youth/children outreach has also been scheduled for March 13. Pray soon the Vuvulane Baptist Church will have a strong children’s and youth program that will ensure a strong future for this struggling church. Pray the youth/children outreach event planned for March 13th (9:00-3:00) will attract many neighborhood youth and children. Pray this will be a “new beginning” for the Mavusos and the Vuvulane Baptist Church.
Update on my computer….Going next door to ask if they knew when the computer shop would open, Wayne was told the shop had moved. When he found the shop he was able to get information concerning the graphics card from my computer. A new card has been ordered and will be brought by the volunteer team in February. Thanks for praying.
FEBRUARY CALENDAR:
--Saturday February 5, the executive committee of the Swaziland Baptist Convention meets to continue the planning of the 2011 Good Friday/Resurrection (Easter) Services April 21-24. Pray for the members of this committee as they actively plan this very important event.
---February 17th, Wayne, Steve and Todd will meet (Manzini) to discuss logistics and curriculum for the Swazi Baptist Rural Training Schools. The first school is scheduled for May 10-13 and the second school is September 20-23. Pray for Wayne, Steve and Todd as they seek the Lord’s wisdom concerning the particulars of the school.
--February 21-March 3 a volunteer team from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina will minister in the Shiselweni region of Swaziland. All six of the team members have been in Swaziland before on a volunteer team and most have been several times!! Plans include an overnight ladies’ retreat at the Thunzini Baptist Church, a weekend youth retreat at the Mgamudze Baptist Church and homestead visitation/Bible studies. Pray for this team as planning continues for their trip to Swaziland. Pray for Wayne and I as we prepare for the team’s arrival and ministry.
FAMILY PRAYER CONCERNS:
-Please remember JC as he recovers from his pancreatitis. He still is not feeling well. His labs will be checked today (Friday). Pray he will soon feel like eating and recovery will be complete.
-My Aunt Aldean (mother’s sister who broke her hip and right arm) was able to have the bones set. She is recuperating. Please pray for her full recovery.
-Please continue to pray for Wayne’s siblings: Terry currently in remission from stage 4 cancer, Patsy suffering from COPD and Lynda dealing with health issues as well as Patsy’s husband Jim. Pray the Lord will wrap His loving arms around this family.
Thank you for your prayer support!
Saturday Wayne received a phone call from the young man that preaches at the Luwhhawhhaweni Baptist Church each Sunday that he would be unable to attend Sunday due to his job. This young man is not the pastor of the church but a member of the Phuzumoya Baptist Church. He comes every week because the pastor is in a situation that the community views of inappropriate. His family sent him to live in the home of his deceased brother’s wife to care for the property when she is not there which is often since her job is in Big Bend. Even though the couple claims not to have a sexual relationship, to the community this is not how a pastor should live. He does not have a job and until he can provide for himself he can not leave this home even though he knows he needs to have a good witness. Therefore Mandla comes every week to preach to the congregation. The last time we had attended Luwhhawhhaweni, we had to wait thirty minutes until someone arrived to unlock the small house that serves as a church. It was a rather warm day with few in attendance. Sunday was also a very warm day but with many in attendance. At the end of the service five people came forward to accept Jesus as their Savior. What a blessing for these and this little church and what a blessing for Wayne to have a part in this service. Please pray for these to understand what it truly means to follow the Lord Jesus Christ. Pray for the situation with the pastor—he will be able to find a job that will take care of his needs and still lead this congregation. Pray the church will be a lighthouse in a community that lives in darkness.
I did not attend Luwhhawhhaweni on Sunday with Wayne but felt my place was at the Vuvulane Baptist Church. This church also meets in a home in the middle of sugar cane fields. For several months we have taken a lady (Gertrude) that lives on the farm and works in the office with us to church. She was baptized at the last baptism service at Vuvulane and loves to read her Bible and attend worship services. When we arrived Sunday to the church, we stayed and Wayne left for Luwhhawhhaweni. It was a dismal group that sat on the floor in the lounge (living room) of that home waiting for people to come. We finally started singing and by the time Sunday School had ended we had approximately 15 people. For the last several weeks there have been very few children attending. Even the children on the homestead that hosts the church do not come. The children on the homestead next to the church do not come either even though their grandmother is there every Sunday. When asked why the children do not come, she says, “Oh they didn’t have any clean clothes. I didn’t get the chance to wash them.” The host grandmother says, “I tell them to get ready to come to church but they do not do it.” These children will play outside during our worship time causing the children inside the church to want to come out and play with them. Also the children do not have a Sunday School class on Sunday morning because it is too far for the teacher to come every Sunday. The normal noisy children were not noisy Sunday, but it was two of the children that had been inside that went outside supposedly to go to the bathroom that were in the midst of beginning to be quite disruptive. I sat there for a few seconds. I did say, “Lord I won’t do anything you do not orchestrate.” But to be honest I don’t know if it was the Lord’s urging or whether I just had enough of this behavior, but before I knew it I had my shoes on marching outside to bring those children inside!! Through all of this I knew something needed to be done to encourage the Mavusos (pastor) who were quite discouraged and to ensure the church has a future. Without the spiritual instruction of the children there is no future. I prayed concerning this situation and we invited the Mavusos over Tuesday night to talk. They were more than happy to accept any help we could offer. From this meeting, I committed to leading the children’s Sunday School. Gertrude will help me and when I can’t be there she will continue with this ministry. Hopefully I will be able to train her to accept this ministry as her own. Wayne feels led to start working with the youth, although at this point I only know of one. A youth/children outreach has also been scheduled for March 13. Pray soon the Vuvulane Baptist Church will have a strong children’s and youth program that will ensure a strong future for this struggling church. Pray the youth/children outreach event planned for March 13th (9:00-3:00) will attract many neighborhood youth and children. Pray this will be a “new beginning” for the Mavusos and the Vuvulane Baptist Church.
Update on my computer….Going next door to ask if they knew when the computer shop would open, Wayne was told the shop had moved. When he found the shop he was able to get information concerning the graphics card from my computer. A new card has been ordered and will be brought by the volunteer team in February. Thanks for praying.
FEBRUARY CALENDAR:
--Saturday February 5, the executive committee of the Swaziland Baptist Convention meets to continue the planning of the 2011 Good Friday/Resurrection (Easter) Services April 21-24. Pray for the members of this committee as they actively plan this very important event.
---February 17th, Wayne, Steve and Todd will meet (Manzini) to discuss logistics and curriculum for the Swazi Baptist Rural Training Schools. The first school is scheduled for May 10-13 and the second school is September 20-23. Pray for Wayne, Steve and Todd as they seek the Lord’s wisdom concerning the particulars of the school.
--February 21-March 3 a volunteer team from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina will minister in the Shiselweni region of Swaziland. All six of the team members have been in Swaziland before on a volunteer team and most have been several times!! Plans include an overnight ladies’ retreat at the Thunzini Baptist Church, a weekend youth retreat at the Mgamudze Baptist Church and homestead visitation/Bible studies. Pray for this team as planning continues for their trip to Swaziland. Pray for Wayne and I as we prepare for the team’s arrival and ministry.
FAMILY PRAYER CONCERNS:
-Please remember JC as he recovers from his pancreatitis. He still is not feeling well. His labs will be checked today (Friday). Pray he will soon feel like eating and recovery will be complete.
-My Aunt Aldean (mother’s sister who broke her hip and right arm) was able to have the bones set. She is recuperating. Please pray for her full recovery.
-Please continue to pray for Wayne’s siblings: Terry currently in remission from stage 4 cancer, Patsy suffering from COPD and Lynda dealing with health issues as well as Patsy’s husband Jim. Pray the Lord will wrap His loving arms around this family.
Thank you for your prayer support!
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Update on the Hoskins
Hello everybody!
I hope everyone is doing well and staying warm through all of the cold weather and snow that has affected so many of you. We are doing quite well.
We are so amazed at God’s provision of a home for us in Manzini. We were able to move into the apartment in the TransWorld Radio building on January 1st. It has proven to be a great location for people to be able to stop by and visit. We have been able to host new friends, and Deborah has even made muffins—everything is feeling more and more like home. We are getting to know the area by taking a walk in the mornings. I think in about another month everyone in town will recognize us as the crazy folks who walk in the morning and without seeming to have a destination in mind.
Todd is working on the logistics for the Bible Training School that is to have its first session May 10th through May 13th. Please pray for wisdom in figuring out how to make the school effective and self-sustaining.
We would also appreciate prayer as we decide on a church to attend here. There are five different Baptist churches in the Manzini area with which our team works, and Todd and I would like to be a part of one of them. We have been visiting the churches over the past several weeks. Please pray that God will give us wisdom and direction in knowing where to invest our time and energy.
We uploaded a video from the other half of our training time in West Africa. You can click on the following link to view it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6eHKbzc94kQ
or search “Entry 002_Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.”
Thank you so much for your love and support! We couldn’t do our work without you!
I hope everyone is doing well and staying warm through all of the cold weather and snow that has affected so many of you. We are doing quite well.
We are so amazed at God’s provision of a home for us in Manzini. We were able to move into the apartment in the TransWorld Radio building on January 1st. It has proven to be a great location for people to be able to stop by and visit. We have been able to host new friends, and Deborah has even made muffins—everything is feeling more and more like home. We are getting to know the area by taking a walk in the mornings. I think in about another month everyone in town will recognize us as the crazy folks who walk in the morning and without seeming to have a destination in mind.
Todd is working on the logistics for the Bible Training School that is to have its first session May 10th through May 13th. Please pray for wisdom in figuring out how to make the school effective and self-sustaining.
We would also appreciate prayer as we decide on a church to attend here. There are five different Baptist churches in the Manzini area with which our team works, and Todd and I would like to be a part of one of them. We have been visiting the churches over the past several weeks. Please pray that God will give us wisdom and direction in knowing where to invest our time and energy.
We uploaded a video from the other half of our training time in West Africa. You can click on the following link to view it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6eHKbzc94kQ
or search “Entry 002_Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.”
Thank you so much for your love and support! We couldn’t do our work without you!
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Myers Weekly Prayer Letter
Life has a way of making us laugh even while doing the mundane. Since moving to Tshaneni, Wayne has experienced difficulty accessing and sending his messages. In fact he has to travel down the road a ways, park his vehicle and do his emailing. At various times the Tshaneni police have stopped at his vehicle to see if everything was okay. Even at a roadblock (random check of road worthiness of Swazi vehicles), one of the policeman asked Wayne why was he always parked in the forest (it is shady and cool). Wayne explained about his email situation. The policeman went on to say, “But in the forest? There are pirates in the forest. You need to park somewhere else!!” The other day while Wayne was doing his daily emailing, a Tshaneni police car pulled in behind him. The police proceeded to get out of his vehicle and approached Wayne. They chatted a little and then the policemen showed Wayne his new laptop computer that he had received for Christmas. Then he asked Wayne, “Could you show me how to get on the internet?” Wayne said, “Sure!” The policeman got into our vehicle and for the next few minutes Wayne showed him how to get on the internet.
Speaking of computers…my computer has been in the shop since October due to a faulty graphics card. I have continued to use Wayne’s old Dell laptop. BUT, I really need my computer. Please pray the computer shop will open (closed for holidays at least I hope the office is just closed for the holidays L) soon and Wayne will be able to get the information needed to order a new graphics card. Pray I will soon be reunited with my computer!!
--We had a wonderful week with Kym Pennington, (True Love Waits International consultant) here in Tshaneni (January 16-21). Kym was able to meet all the missionaries on the Swazi Team, become acquainted with pastors and Swazis interested in helping with the TLW ministry and make plans to return and conduct 3-day True Love Waits trainings. Kym’s return dates are May 16-30 and October 16-30. Pray for the beginning of a very strong True Love Waits program in Swaziland with presenters committed to the message as well as TLW ministry. Kym is presently ministering with the Allens until the 27th of January. Kym is also getting married June 18th!! Pray for Kym as she begins a new chapter in her life!
AIDS UPDATE:We have asked prayer many times for Swazi Christians to be faithful to the teachings of the Bible especially with regard to God’s plan for marriage and Christian living. With sadness in our hearts we continue hear of those who fall prey to a culture and the desires of the flesh. Last week we heard of one of our youth who had been trained to present the True Love Waits message and was a gifted children’s teacher (helping with the children camps) was now pregnant and not married. What a disappointment and also a great concern of contacting HIV/AIDS. Even though Swaziland is being devastated by the AIDS pandemic, the population lives as though there was no AIDS. Pray that the message of abstinence, and most especially the power of Jesus Christ behind the message, will permeate the hearts of the Swazi people.
--The Shiselweni Baptist Association met on the 15th of January. The Association’s next scheduled meeting is March 19th. Pray for this association as it organizes and meets on a regularly. Pray the meetings will be conducted in the spirit of unity and much will be accomplished for the Kingdom of God. February 21-March 3 a volunteer team from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina will minister in the Shiselweni region of Swaziland. All six of the team members have been in Swaziland before on a volunteer team and most have been several times!! Plans include an overnight ladies’ retreat at the Thunzini Baptist Church, a weekend youth retreat at the Mgamudze Baptist Church and homestead visitation/Bible studies. We are thankful for this group of volunteers giving of their time to help evangelize and disciple Swazis. Pray for this team as planning continues for their trip to Swaziland. Pray for Wayne and I as we prepare for the team’s arrival and ministry.
FAMILY PRAYER CONCERNS:
--JC went back to the Dr. He says metabolically everything is where it should be. They will check the enzymes next Friday and we will know more. They are still trying to get all of his meds regulated so he does not sleep so much. He is beginning to get some color back in his cheeks and he is beginning to get a little more lively. So hopefully we are on the right track. It is just going to be a very slow process to rebuild his digestive system. Please pray for JC’s continued healing and his enzymes will return to normal.
--My mother’s sister, (Aldean Maples-86 years old) fell and broke her hip and arm. Before the broken bones can be set, she will have to be gotten off her blood thinner meds. They have her in some kind of air cast until they get her off the blood thinner. Once they get the broken bones set they will be moving her into a nursing home in Jeffersonville (Ind.) Please pray the bones will be set and Aunt Aldean will heal from this injury. Pray for a speedy recovery.
--Please continue to pray for Wayne’s siblings; Terry currently in remission from stage 4 cancer, Patsy suffering from COPD and Lynda dealing with various health issues as well as Patsy’s husband Jim. Pray the Lord will wrap His arms around this family.
PRAY REQUESTS FROM THE IMB OFFICE OF GLOBAL PRAYER STRATEGY:-January 24-March 23: Field Personnel Orientation. The first field orientation of the year will bring together 98 adult missionaries and 38 MKs (missionary kids) for approximately eight weeks in order to equip them for overseas ministry and living. Please pray daily for them, as well as for the administrative and teaching staff.-January 24-26: Iniciativa 21. There are more than 30,000 Hispanic churches in the United States. For over a decade, Christians have ministered to the unreached overseas. In the last two or three years, the call has expanded to bless the nations that are around us in the U.S. In this conference, speakers will share information about people groups and how to reach them in this country and around the world. This conference will be conducted in Spanish. Oh, that God would call out more and more Hispanic churches and individuals to be His laborers in His harvest fields!
--Please continue to pray for the IMB’s Presidential Search Committee as they seek God’s man to lead our organization.
Speaking of computers…my computer has been in the shop since October due to a faulty graphics card. I have continued to use Wayne’s old Dell laptop. BUT, I really need my computer. Please pray the computer shop will open (closed for holidays at least I hope the office is just closed for the holidays L) soon and Wayne will be able to get the information needed to order a new graphics card. Pray I will soon be reunited with my computer!!
--We had a wonderful week with Kym Pennington, (True Love Waits International consultant) here in Tshaneni (January 16-21). Kym was able to meet all the missionaries on the Swazi Team, become acquainted with pastors and Swazis interested in helping with the TLW ministry and make plans to return and conduct 3-day True Love Waits trainings. Kym’s return dates are May 16-30 and October 16-30. Pray for the beginning of a very strong True Love Waits program in Swaziland with presenters committed to the message as well as TLW ministry. Kym is presently ministering with the Allens until the 27th of January. Kym is also getting married June 18th!! Pray for Kym as she begins a new chapter in her life!
AIDS UPDATE:We have asked prayer many times for Swazi Christians to be faithful to the teachings of the Bible especially with regard to God’s plan for marriage and Christian living. With sadness in our hearts we continue hear of those who fall prey to a culture and the desires of the flesh. Last week we heard of one of our youth who had been trained to present the True Love Waits message and was a gifted children’s teacher (helping with the children camps) was now pregnant and not married. What a disappointment and also a great concern of contacting HIV/AIDS. Even though Swaziland is being devastated by the AIDS pandemic, the population lives as though there was no AIDS. Pray that the message of abstinence, and most especially the power of Jesus Christ behind the message, will permeate the hearts of the Swazi people.
--The Shiselweni Baptist Association met on the 15th of January. The Association’s next scheduled meeting is March 19th. Pray for this association as it organizes and meets on a regularly. Pray the meetings will be conducted in the spirit of unity and much will be accomplished for the Kingdom of God. February 21-March 3 a volunteer team from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina will minister in the Shiselweni region of Swaziland. All six of the team members have been in Swaziland before on a volunteer team and most have been several times!! Plans include an overnight ladies’ retreat at the Thunzini Baptist Church, a weekend youth retreat at the Mgamudze Baptist Church and homestead visitation/Bible studies. We are thankful for this group of volunteers giving of their time to help evangelize and disciple Swazis. Pray for this team as planning continues for their trip to Swaziland. Pray for Wayne and I as we prepare for the team’s arrival and ministry.
FAMILY PRAYER CONCERNS:
--JC went back to the Dr. He says metabolically everything is where it should be. They will check the enzymes next Friday and we will know more. They are still trying to get all of his meds regulated so he does not sleep so much. He is beginning to get some color back in his cheeks and he is beginning to get a little more lively. So hopefully we are on the right track. It is just going to be a very slow process to rebuild his digestive system. Please pray for JC’s continued healing and his enzymes will return to normal.
--My mother’s sister, (Aldean Maples-86 years old) fell and broke her hip and arm. Before the broken bones can be set, she will have to be gotten off her blood thinner meds. They have her in some kind of air cast until they get her off the blood thinner. Once they get the broken bones set they will be moving her into a nursing home in Jeffersonville (Ind.) Please pray the bones will be set and Aunt Aldean will heal from this injury. Pray for a speedy recovery.
--Please continue to pray for Wayne’s siblings; Terry currently in remission from stage 4 cancer, Patsy suffering from COPD and Lynda dealing with various health issues as well as Patsy’s husband Jim. Pray the Lord will wrap His arms around this family.
PRAY REQUESTS FROM THE IMB OFFICE OF GLOBAL PRAYER STRATEGY:-January 24-March 23: Field Personnel Orientation. The first field orientation of the year will bring together 98 adult missionaries and 38 MKs (missionary kids) for approximately eight weeks in order to equip them for overseas ministry and living. Please pray daily for them, as well as for the administrative and teaching staff.-January 24-26: Iniciativa 21. There are more than 30,000 Hispanic churches in the United States. For over a decade, Christians have ministered to the unreached overseas. In the last two or three years, the call has expanded to bless the nations that are around us in the U.S. In this conference, speakers will share information about people groups and how to reach them in this country and around the world. This conference will be conducted in Spanish. Oh, that God would call out more and more Hispanic churches and individuals to be His laborers in His harvest fields!
--Please continue to pray for the IMB’s Presidential Search Committee as they seek God’s man to lead our organization.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Myers Weekly Prayer Letter
Prayer is the expression of a human heart in conversation with God. The more natural the prayer, the more real he becomes. It has all been simplified for me to this extent. Prayer is a dialogue between two persons who love each other. –Rosalind Rinker
While it is winter in the good old USA it is summer in Swaziland. We know of the cold and snow that has attacked the southeast section and do hope you are able to keep warm and happy!! Right now in Tshaneni it is a muggy summer day, just like summer in Kentucky. Wayne is on his way to the Shiselweni region to attend the Shiselweni Baptist Convention tomorrow (Sat. 15th) at the Velebantfu Baptist Church. The association is in the process of regrouping and meeting on a regular basis under the leadership of Pastor Nkosingiphile Dlamini. We are thankful for the strong leadership he provides and ask that you pray for this association as they reorganize and meet regularly. Pray the meeting tomorrow will be conducted in the spirit of unity and much will be accomplished for the Kingdom of God.
--The training for the teachers of the Swazi Baptist churches’ preschools was conducted at the Phuzumoya Baptist Church on the 13th of January. There are six Swazi Baptist preschools organized for the 2011 school year. Five of those churches were represented. Supplies were given as well as training on the use of the teaching aids. Pray these teachers will commit to provide the best preschool education for the children attending and this will be a great year for everyone.
Monday (17th) starts a new school year and experience for Lacie Allen as she enters 1st grade at the Sifundzane Primary School in Mbabane. Pray Lacie will adjust well and will enjoy her new school. Nathan Allen will attend preschool two mornings a week (Monday and Wednesday) beginning Wednesday the 19th. Pray Nathan will do well and adjust to the structure of school.
AIDS UPDATE: Saturday (15th) the True Love Waits International consultant, Kym Pennington arrives in Swaziland. Kym will spend Saturday night with the Hoskins in Manzini. Sunday she will make her way to Tshaneni and be with us until Friday the 21st. From the 21st until her departure on the 27th, she will work and visit with the Allens. Kym will be introduced to pastors and trained TLW presenters as well as explaining the ministry of True Love Waits to Swazi Baptist church groups. Pray this time will help Kym have a strong beginning with the True Love Waits ministry in Swaziland. Pray leaders will be developed to faithfully share the message of purity in schools, churches and with friends and family members.
FAMILY PRAYER CONCERNS: JC (my great nephew) update: JC had the scope done yesterday but they found nothing. They are inserting a feeding tube so he can get some nourishment until they find out the cause of the problem. His enzymes are still elevated but everything else is showing up clear. They have several theories but nothing concrete about what is wrong. One is that the anxiety when he started back to school started it and now his body thinks it is suppose to purge every time something hits the stomach. One of the reasons for inserting the feeding tube is to give the stomach time to readjust. Another theory is that the Triliptal for seizures has caused the elevated enzymes--thus the reason for changing his seizure medication. But this has to be done gradual in order not to throw him into a seizure. Please pray JC will soon be eating and feeling better and able to leave the hospital. Pray for complete healing!!
--Please continue to pray for Wayne’s siblings, Terry, Patsy and Patsy’s husband and Lynda who are dealing with health issues. Pray for the for the Lord’s healing touch.
--Friday while at Luwhhawhhaweni for his Friday afternoon Bible study, Wayne was given another look at the culture that controls the lives of so many Swazis. The older lady in the group was sharing that the man she lived with for 35 years (is deceased) was not her husband since they were not legally married and she does not carry his surname. His family was concerned that the ancestors would be very angry with her and the family if she tries to be buried in her “husband’s” family plot and not have his surname. The family was encouraging her to marry her son so she would have the name and could be buried in the family plot and everyone (including the ancestors) would be happy. She asked Wayne if this was okay. L Being a new Christian and unsure of so many things concerning her faith, this lady (like so many other Swazis) struggles to do what is right in a society that is controlled by appeasing the ancestors and adhering to many cultural practices that are totally unchristian. Pray Swazi Christians will understand the customs and traditions that are a normal part of life are not always acceptable to the Lord and why they are not acceptable. Pray many will study and learn about the Lord and His ways.
PRAYER REQUESTS FROM THE IMB OFFICE OF GLOBAL PRAYER STRATEGY:
-January 17-21: Strategy Logistics Associates and Office of Global Logistics Support Meeting. May the Lord’s blessings be upon them as they travel, worship, debrief, learn and fellowship together.
--January 19: Executive Forum. May our Father’s hand of leadership be upon our interim president, Clyde Meador, and his team during this important administrative/strategy meeting.
--January 22: Medical Missions Day (conference) hosted by Willowbrook Baptist Church, Huntsville, Ala. Pray for the conferees as they learn about new, effective health strategies; become better equipped for short-term medical missions; hear about Southern Baptist medical missions that cover the globe; discover service opportunities; and network with other like-minded healthcare professions.
--Please continue to pray for the IMB’s Presidential Search Committee as they seek God’s man to lead our organization.
Thank you for your sacrificial giving to the 2010 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.
While it is winter in the good old USA it is summer in Swaziland. We know of the cold and snow that has attacked the southeast section and do hope you are able to keep warm and happy!! Right now in Tshaneni it is a muggy summer day, just like summer in Kentucky. Wayne is on his way to the Shiselweni region to attend the Shiselweni Baptist Convention tomorrow (Sat. 15th) at the Velebantfu Baptist Church. The association is in the process of regrouping and meeting on a regular basis under the leadership of Pastor Nkosingiphile Dlamini. We are thankful for the strong leadership he provides and ask that you pray for this association as they reorganize and meet regularly. Pray the meeting tomorrow will be conducted in the spirit of unity and much will be accomplished for the Kingdom of God.
--The training for the teachers of the Swazi Baptist churches’ preschools was conducted at the Phuzumoya Baptist Church on the 13th of January. There are six Swazi Baptist preschools organized for the 2011 school year. Five of those churches were represented. Supplies were given as well as training on the use of the teaching aids. Pray these teachers will commit to provide the best preschool education for the children attending and this will be a great year for everyone.
Monday (17th) starts a new school year and experience for Lacie Allen as she enters 1st grade at the Sifundzane Primary School in Mbabane. Pray Lacie will adjust well and will enjoy her new school. Nathan Allen will attend preschool two mornings a week (Monday and Wednesday) beginning Wednesday the 19th. Pray Nathan will do well and adjust to the structure of school.
AIDS UPDATE: Saturday (15th) the True Love Waits International consultant, Kym Pennington arrives in Swaziland. Kym will spend Saturday night with the Hoskins in Manzini. Sunday she will make her way to Tshaneni and be with us until Friday the 21st. From the 21st until her departure on the 27th, she will work and visit with the Allens. Kym will be introduced to pastors and trained TLW presenters as well as explaining the ministry of True Love Waits to Swazi Baptist church groups. Pray this time will help Kym have a strong beginning with the True Love Waits ministry in Swaziland. Pray leaders will be developed to faithfully share the message of purity in schools, churches and with friends and family members.
FAMILY PRAYER CONCERNS: JC (my great nephew) update: JC had the scope done yesterday but they found nothing. They are inserting a feeding tube so he can get some nourishment until they find out the cause of the problem. His enzymes are still elevated but everything else is showing up clear. They have several theories but nothing concrete about what is wrong. One is that the anxiety when he started back to school started it and now his body thinks it is suppose to purge every time something hits the stomach. One of the reasons for inserting the feeding tube is to give the stomach time to readjust. Another theory is that the Triliptal for seizures has caused the elevated enzymes--thus the reason for changing his seizure medication. But this has to be done gradual in order not to throw him into a seizure. Please pray JC will soon be eating and feeling better and able to leave the hospital. Pray for complete healing!!
--Please continue to pray for Wayne’s siblings, Terry, Patsy and Patsy’s husband and Lynda who are dealing with health issues. Pray for the for the Lord’s healing touch.
--Friday while at Luwhhawhhaweni for his Friday afternoon Bible study, Wayne was given another look at the culture that controls the lives of so many Swazis. The older lady in the group was sharing that the man she lived with for 35 years (is deceased) was not her husband since they were not legally married and she does not carry his surname. His family was concerned that the ancestors would be very angry with her and the family if she tries to be buried in her “husband’s” family plot and not have his surname. The family was encouraging her to marry her son so she would have the name and could be buried in the family plot and everyone (including the ancestors) would be happy. She asked Wayne if this was okay. L Being a new Christian and unsure of so many things concerning her faith, this lady (like so many other Swazis) struggles to do what is right in a society that is controlled by appeasing the ancestors and adhering to many cultural practices that are totally unchristian. Pray Swazi Christians will understand the customs and traditions that are a normal part of life are not always acceptable to the Lord and why they are not acceptable. Pray many will study and learn about the Lord and His ways.
PRAYER REQUESTS FROM THE IMB OFFICE OF GLOBAL PRAYER STRATEGY:
-January 17-21: Strategy Logistics Associates and Office of Global Logistics Support Meeting. May the Lord’s blessings be upon them as they travel, worship, debrief, learn and fellowship together.
--January 19: Executive Forum. May our Father’s hand of leadership be upon our interim president, Clyde Meador, and his team during this important administrative/strategy meeting.
--January 22: Medical Missions Day (conference) hosted by Willowbrook Baptist Church, Huntsville, Ala. Pray for the conferees as they learn about new, effective health strategies; become better equipped for short-term medical missions; hear about Southern Baptist medical missions that cover the globe; discover service opportunities; and network with other like-minded healthcare professions.
--Please continue to pray for the IMB’s Presidential Search Committee as they seek God’s man to lead our organization.
Thank you for your sacrificial giving to the 2010 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Myers Weekly Prayer Letter
Standing in a hot and crowded class room hoping the fresh air would soon begin flowing from the front door we all clapped our hands and sang siSwati songs to welcome in 2011 (Friday Dec. 31st). Members from the three churches, Vuvulane, Mafacula and Luwhhawhhaweni gathered at the Mafacula Secondary School to worship and fellowship together. A portion of the “Jesus” film was shown and Pastor Nkosingiphile Dlamini brought the sermon. Choirs sang and even though it was hot and muggy (with all the humanity in one small room) it was a very nice service. The only thing that was a great hindrance to our spirit of worship was the many many bugs flying around and landing in our hair, on our arms and all over our bodies. Some of the bugs were small, some were big and some were even bigger!! At one point in the service I thought if one more bug hits me in the head I am going to scream!! But I overcame my compulsion to show my emotion and praised the Lord for His blessings and for the ministry with the people of Swaziland. Please pray in 2011 many Swazis will truly understand who Jesus is and follow Him completely putting aside traditions that conflict with the Christian way of life.
--Today the executive committee of the Baptist Convention of Swaziland is meeting to continue planning the 2011 National Easter Servces (April 21-24). Pray for this committee as they plan this very important event.
--The rains continue to be good throughout Swaziland. Please continue praying the rains will not stop just when the crops and gardens need it the most. Pray the rains will continue until April or May and there will be enough water to fill the streams and rivers and food for all Swazis.
JANUARY MINISTRY EVENTS:
--January 13th, is the scheduled training for teachers of the Swazi Baptist churches’ preschools at the Phuzumoya Baptist Church. I am happy to say there are six preschools, Phuzumoya, Vovovo, Big Bend, Manzini, Peace and Velebantfu. Pray these schools will offer the best preschool education to the children attending. Pray the teachers will find this training very helpful.
-January 15th the Shiselweni Baptist Association will meet at the Velebantfu Baptist Church. Pray for a good representation from the churches in the Shiselweni region. Pray for unity that will develop a strong Baptist association.
--January 15-27, Kym Pennington, True Love Waits International consultant will be in Swaziland. While in the country she will meet with trained True Love Waits presenters, discuss future plans for TLW ministry with pastors and Swazi Team members and begin her ministry with the Swazi people. With the AIDS pandemic continuing to devastate the country of Swaziland, pray leaders will rise up and stand strong in sharing the message of purity. Pray for Kym’s visit to Swaziland to be the beginning of a wonderful ministry.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO STEVE AND MONICA ALLEN ON THE 12TH OF JANUARY!!
The Allen family will take a holiday January 11-12 to the Kruger National Game Reserve. Pray this will be a fun time for Lacie and Nathan. Pray they will see many animals and other interesting things.
AIDS UPDATE:Wayne received a phone call this week and learned there are 100 BGR buckets for the Swazi Team. We are so thankful for these buckets that will help AIDS victims have dignity and hope and give them an opportunity to see and hear God’s love for them. Pray we will soon receive the 100 buckets. Pray for the Lord’s guidance as the Team begins ministering to the many hurting victims of AIDS and their families.If your church is interested in helping pack a BGR bucket, contact this website www.inhomecarekit.org. Your help is much needed and will be much appreciated!!
PRAYER REQUESTS FROM THE IMB OFFICE OF GLOBAL PRAYER STRATEGY:
-January 10-15: Stateside Assignment Conference for 220 missionary adults and 134 MKs (missionary kids). May the Lord’s blessings be upon them as they travel, worship, debrief, learn and fellowship together.
--Please continue to pray for the IMB’s Presidential Search Committee as they seek God’s man to lead our organization.
--August 28, 1993 Wayne and I arrived in Swaziland to begin a journey of ministry with the Swazi people. Over the years our lives have been enriched not only by the fruits of labors but by your faithful prayer support and giving. Thank you for your sacrificial giving to the 2010 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.
UPDATE ON LISA WARREN’S FATHER: Lisa’s father, Lloyd Claiborne underwent a heart catheterization Friday December 31st and it revealed a strong heart muscle but 4 major blockages that can only be treated with heart medications. Due to his stroke (2008) and current health condition, he is not a candidate for bypass surgery. Please remember Lisa and her parents. Pray for strength and comfort as they move through the days ahead. Pray the Lord’s guiding hand will guide their every step.
We had a visitor this week on our back porch. It was not Mr. Snake but Mr. Crab!! We live next to a swampy area and so I guess he was wandering around and decided to stop by. We didn’t know what to think of each other as I returned from hanging clothes on the clothes line and spotted him at the back door. His pinchers were braced for battle. I tried to calm him down and assure him I would not disturb his time of resting and if it was all the same to him, I think I’ll go in the front door. He eventually continued his journey. We occasionally see these crabs (not for eating according to the Swazis) in our yard and around our gate. We also have a troop of monkeys (vervet monkeys, black face and gray body and much smaller than chimps) that visit us on a regular basis. The other day I heard something and when I went to investigate found a monkey or monkeys looking in our windows. As soon as they saw me they jumped down and scurried across the yard. I love to watch them, especially the young ones play. Since they have eaten all they wanted from our garden (corn, beans, peppers, tomatoes) they content themselves with jumping from tree to tree and sitting on the fence. I talk to them occasionally too. They don’t know what to think of me, either. When I talk they just stare and if I move they run away.
Thank you for your prayer support!!!
--Today the executive committee of the Baptist Convention of Swaziland is meeting to continue planning the 2011 National Easter Servces (April 21-24). Pray for this committee as they plan this very important event.
--The rains continue to be good throughout Swaziland. Please continue praying the rains will not stop just when the crops and gardens need it the most. Pray the rains will continue until April or May and there will be enough water to fill the streams and rivers and food for all Swazis.
JANUARY MINISTRY EVENTS:
--January 13th, is the scheduled training for teachers of the Swazi Baptist churches’ preschools at the Phuzumoya Baptist Church. I am happy to say there are six preschools, Phuzumoya, Vovovo, Big Bend, Manzini, Peace and Velebantfu. Pray these schools will offer the best preschool education to the children attending. Pray the teachers will find this training very helpful.
-January 15th the Shiselweni Baptist Association will meet at the Velebantfu Baptist Church. Pray for a good representation from the churches in the Shiselweni region. Pray for unity that will develop a strong Baptist association.
--January 15-27, Kym Pennington, True Love Waits International consultant will be in Swaziland. While in the country she will meet with trained True Love Waits presenters, discuss future plans for TLW ministry with pastors and Swazi Team members and begin her ministry with the Swazi people. With the AIDS pandemic continuing to devastate the country of Swaziland, pray leaders will rise up and stand strong in sharing the message of purity. Pray for Kym’s visit to Swaziland to be the beginning of a wonderful ministry.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO STEVE AND MONICA ALLEN ON THE 12TH OF JANUARY!!
The Allen family will take a holiday January 11-12 to the Kruger National Game Reserve. Pray this will be a fun time for Lacie and Nathan. Pray they will see many animals and other interesting things.
AIDS UPDATE:Wayne received a phone call this week and learned there are 100 BGR buckets for the Swazi Team. We are so thankful for these buckets that will help AIDS victims have dignity and hope and give them an opportunity to see and hear God’s love for them. Pray we will soon receive the 100 buckets. Pray for the Lord’s guidance as the Team begins ministering to the many hurting victims of AIDS and their families.If your church is interested in helping pack a BGR bucket, contact this website www.inhomecarekit.org. Your help is much needed and will be much appreciated!!
PRAYER REQUESTS FROM THE IMB OFFICE OF GLOBAL PRAYER STRATEGY:
-January 10-15: Stateside Assignment Conference for 220 missionary adults and 134 MKs (missionary kids). May the Lord’s blessings be upon them as they travel, worship, debrief, learn and fellowship together.
--Please continue to pray for the IMB’s Presidential Search Committee as they seek God’s man to lead our organization.
--August 28, 1993 Wayne and I arrived in Swaziland to begin a journey of ministry with the Swazi people. Over the years our lives have been enriched not only by the fruits of labors but by your faithful prayer support and giving. Thank you for your sacrificial giving to the 2010 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.
UPDATE ON LISA WARREN’S FATHER: Lisa’s father, Lloyd Claiborne underwent a heart catheterization Friday December 31st and it revealed a strong heart muscle but 4 major blockages that can only be treated with heart medications. Due to his stroke (2008) and current health condition, he is not a candidate for bypass surgery. Please remember Lisa and her parents. Pray for strength and comfort as they move through the days ahead. Pray the Lord’s guiding hand will guide their every step.
We had a visitor this week on our back porch. It was not Mr. Snake but Mr. Crab!! We live next to a swampy area and so I guess he was wandering around and decided to stop by. We didn’t know what to think of each other as I returned from hanging clothes on the clothes line and spotted him at the back door. His pinchers were braced for battle. I tried to calm him down and assure him I would not disturb his time of resting and if it was all the same to him, I think I’ll go in the front door. He eventually continued his journey. We occasionally see these crabs (not for eating according to the Swazis) in our yard and around our gate. We also have a troop of monkeys (vervet monkeys, black face and gray body and much smaller than chimps) that visit us on a regular basis. The other day I heard something and when I went to investigate found a monkey or monkeys looking in our windows. As soon as they saw me they jumped down and scurried across the yard. I love to watch them, especially the young ones play. Since they have eaten all they wanted from our garden (corn, beans, peppers, tomatoes) they content themselves with jumping from tree to tree and sitting on the fence. I talk to them occasionally too. They don’t know what to think of me, either. When I talk they just stare and if I move they run away.
Thank you for your prayer support!!!
Monday, January 3, 2011
Happy New Year from Swaziland
Happy New Year from Swaziland!
Whew....cannot believe that we are already into yet another year. Time just flew by last year for our family. We pray everyone had a wonderful Christmas and a blessed year ahead.
Praises:
- Todd and Deborah Hoskins, our newest personnel, have moved down to their new flat (apartment) in Manzini over the weekend. We miss not having them next door but know this is where God has them for their time of ministry in Swaziland. Continue to pray for them as they are in the midst of yet another transition.
- Steve had the opportunity to lead someone to Christ while waiting in lines at one of our government offices last week...praise the Lord!
- We also were able to assist in leading two people to Christ at Bethel Baptist a few weeks ago during their morning service. God is at work in Swaziland and pray we continue to keep our eyes open every day for people that desperately need to know Jesus.
- Thank you for everyone that generously gave to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering this past holiday season!!! Because of YOUR sacrificial giving, we are able to continue with the ministry God has called our family to Swaziland.
- Several of our churches gathered in different locations for New Year's weekend services. Praise God for their faithfulness and may these services encourage them all in their walks with the Lord.- Our family was able to participate with a few churches with their Christmas celebrations/lunches. It was a special blessing to us all.
- Lacie was able to participate in a children's Christmas program at a church in town and that was a rare but special treat for her.
- Our family had a nice Christmas with our team leaders, Wayne and Barbara Myers, at our house. We have also gotten with other missionary friends over the holidays for fellowship and fun.
Prayer Requests:
- Steve plans to a prayer drive within the next two weeks in preparation of a new work area. This has been a prayer concern for a bit but something has stopped us from being able to do this each time.
- We have three volunteer teams coming to serve with us in 2011. We are looking forward to their time with our family and the Swazi people. Pray for all the logistics on our side, ministry that God wants for these teams and the finances/spiritual preparation for each team in the USA.
***If anyone else is interested in coming to serve with us, let us know! We have a big need for a volunteer team to come serve at our National Youth Camp in late August.
- Our True Love Waits consultant, Kym Pennington, is coming to Swaziland, January 15-27. Kym is a former journeyman with our company to Malawi. Pray for Kym's time with our Swazis and our mission team. We know many need to hear AND live out the TLW message!
- Lacie starts grade 1 on January 17 and Nathan starts preschool two days a week on January 19. Pray for them as they begin new schools. May God protect them, provide special friends and opportunities for us as a family to reach out as a shining light for Jesus.
Thank you for your faithful prayer support!!!!
May God continue to richly bless all your lives!
Whew....cannot believe that we are already into yet another year. Time just flew by last year for our family. We pray everyone had a wonderful Christmas and a blessed year ahead.
Praises:
- Todd and Deborah Hoskins, our newest personnel, have moved down to their new flat (apartment) in Manzini over the weekend. We miss not having them next door but know this is where God has them for their time of ministry in Swaziland. Continue to pray for them as they are in the midst of yet another transition.
- Steve had the opportunity to lead someone to Christ while waiting in lines at one of our government offices last week...praise the Lord!
- We also were able to assist in leading two people to Christ at Bethel Baptist a few weeks ago during their morning service. God is at work in Swaziland and pray we continue to keep our eyes open every day for people that desperately need to know Jesus.
- Thank you for everyone that generously gave to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering this past holiday season!!! Because of YOUR sacrificial giving, we are able to continue with the ministry God has called our family to Swaziland.
- Several of our churches gathered in different locations for New Year's weekend services. Praise God for their faithfulness and may these services encourage them all in their walks with the Lord.- Our family was able to participate with a few churches with their Christmas celebrations/lunches. It was a special blessing to us all.
- Lacie was able to participate in a children's Christmas program at a church in town and that was a rare but special treat for her.
- Our family had a nice Christmas with our team leaders, Wayne and Barbara Myers, at our house. We have also gotten with other missionary friends over the holidays for fellowship and fun.
Prayer Requests:
- Steve plans to a prayer drive within the next two weeks in preparation of a new work area. This has been a prayer concern for a bit but something has stopped us from being able to do this each time.
- We have three volunteer teams coming to serve with us in 2011. We are looking forward to their time with our family and the Swazi people. Pray for all the logistics on our side, ministry that God wants for these teams and the finances/spiritual preparation for each team in the USA.
***If anyone else is interested in coming to serve with us, let us know! We have a big need for a volunteer team to come serve at our National Youth Camp in late August.
- Our True Love Waits consultant, Kym Pennington, is coming to Swaziland, January 15-27. Kym is a former journeyman with our company to Malawi. Pray for Kym's time with our Swazis and our mission team. We know many need to hear AND live out the TLW message!
- Lacie starts grade 1 on January 17 and Nathan starts preschool two days a week on January 19. Pray for them as they begin new schools. May God protect them, provide special friends and opportunities for us as a family to reach out as a shining light for Jesus.
Thank you for your faithful prayer support!!!!
May God continue to richly bless all your lives!
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Updated Swaziland Team Photo
Swaziland Baptist Mission Team - Todd and Deborah Hoskins, Steve, Monica, Lacie and Nathan Allen and Wayne and Barbara Myers
Myers Weekly Prayer Letter
This is the last day of 2010. We hope it has been a good year for you. For us it has been a year of change with moving to Tshaneni and continuing the work the Warrens began during their time of ministry. We also had to move from one house on the Swazi Citrus Farm to another house. But we praise the Lord for walking beside us though all the changes the year brought and we are looking to what he has for us in 2011. Please pray 2011 will be a good year for us and the Swazi Team as we minister to the Swazi people. Pray many Swazis will accept Jesus and put aside culture and traditions that conflict with the Christian way of life.
A few years ago a missionary was given a couple of pineapple tops to plant. After planting the tops he waited for about three years until finally he began to see evidence of a pineapple growing on one of the plants. It was another six months before the pineapple was ready to pick. What a joy it was to pick that first pineapple. Using this example of the growing pineapple one can see the growing of leaders and workers for the harvest field in Swaziland takes a long time. Working with youth and young adults in a culture that promotes an unchristian lifestyle can be emotionally trying but the reward can be so sweet. As missionaries on the Swazi Team struggle with disappointments, pray in 2011 they will look to the Lord for guidance, His wisdom and assurance that the outcome will be worth the wait.
--Thanks to the many of you who prayed for Wayne and his family during the loss of his brother, Rusty. We also appreciate the many emails with words of sympathy and encouragement. Please continue praying for the family during this difficult time of loss.
Last Sunday we were blessed to be a part of the Big Bend Baptist Church (Lobombo region) and assist with the baptism of three new believers. It is always a thrill to see Swazis come to know the Lord and follow his command to be baptized. Please pray for these three new believers. Pray also the Big Bend Baptist Church will continue to seek the many lost in the community. After the baptism the pastor told all the people to return to the church because the service was not finished. Usually the baptism is at the end of the service and I was quite surprised to be told to return to my pew. The pastor thanked us for coming and then told us (Myers) we could leave. We had collected a lady that lives on the Citrus Farm along the way from Siteki (she was visiting her mother). When we were excused to leave she told me that the pastor was fussing at his congregation for not attending the Christmas Day services scheduled. Evidently no one attended and he felt he needed to explain that it was more important to worship and celebrate our Lord’s birthday on Christmas Day than fix our fancy food. He was still explaining this to the people when we drove away.
Tonight, the Vuvulane, Mafucula and Luwhhawhhaweni Baptist Churches will gather for New Year’s Services at Mafucula. A portion of the Jesus film will be shown as well as Pastor Nkosingiphile Dlamini (from the Shiselweni region) bringing the message and plenty of fellowship and singing. Pray this time will continue to promote unity and fellowship among our three churches in this area. Pray we will see the new year arrive together with hopes of reaping a great harvest of lost souls in 2011.
JANUARY MINISTRY EVENTS:
--The executive committee of the Baptist Convention of Swaziland meets on Saturday the 8th of January in Manzini. Planning has begun for the 2011 National Easter Services. Pray for the committee as they plan for this very important event.
--January 13th, is the scheduled training for teachers of the Swazi Baptist churches’ preschools at the Phuzumoya Baptist Church. In the last few years due to government regulations a few of our preschools have ceased to function. But, I am happy to say there are six preschools, Phuzumoya, Vovovo, Big Bend, Peace, Manzini and Velebantfu. Pray these schools will offer the best preschool education to the children attending. Pray the teachers will find this training very helpful.
AIDS UPDATE:
--January 16, True Love Waits International consultant, Kym Pennington is scheduled to arrive in Swaziland (January 16-27). While in the country she will meet with trained True Love Waits presenters, discuss plans for TLW ministry with pastors and begin her ministry with the Swazi people. With the AIDS pandemic continuing to devastate the country of Swaziland, pray leaders will rise up and stand strong in sharing the message of purity. Pray Kym’s visit to Swaziland will be the beginning of a wonderful ministry.
The rains have been good throughout Swaziland thus far. Pray the rains will not stop just when crops and gardens need it the most as usually is the case. Pray the rains will continue until April and May and there will be enough water to fill the streams and rivers and food for all Swazis.
Lisa Warren requests prayer for her father Lloyd Claiborne. He was admitted to the hospital Sunday after Christmas due to dehydration diagnosed to be from twisted intestines that will require surgery. He may also have problems with his heart. Pray for wisdom for the doctors to offer the best treatment for his medical condition. Pray for Lisa and her family as they wait to hear the doctors’ conclusions and plan of treatment.
GOD GRANT US HOPE AND FAITH AND LOVE HOPE for a world grown cynically cold,
Hungry for power and greedy for gold… FAITH to believe when within and without
There’s nameless fear in a world of doubt… LOVE that is bigger than race or creed,
To cover the world and fulfill each need… God, grant these gifts to all trouble hearts
As the old year ends and a new year starts.
--Helen Steiner Rice
Wishing you a very Happy New Year!!
A few years ago a missionary was given a couple of pineapple tops to plant. After planting the tops he waited for about three years until finally he began to see evidence of a pineapple growing on one of the plants. It was another six months before the pineapple was ready to pick. What a joy it was to pick that first pineapple. Using this example of the growing pineapple one can see the growing of leaders and workers for the harvest field in Swaziland takes a long time. Working with youth and young adults in a culture that promotes an unchristian lifestyle can be emotionally trying but the reward can be so sweet. As missionaries on the Swazi Team struggle with disappointments, pray in 2011 they will look to the Lord for guidance, His wisdom and assurance that the outcome will be worth the wait.
--Thanks to the many of you who prayed for Wayne and his family during the loss of his brother, Rusty. We also appreciate the many emails with words of sympathy and encouragement. Please continue praying for the family during this difficult time of loss.
Last Sunday we were blessed to be a part of the Big Bend Baptist Church (Lobombo region) and assist with the baptism of three new believers. It is always a thrill to see Swazis come to know the Lord and follow his command to be baptized. Please pray for these three new believers. Pray also the Big Bend Baptist Church will continue to seek the many lost in the community. After the baptism the pastor told all the people to return to the church because the service was not finished. Usually the baptism is at the end of the service and I was quite surprised to be told to return to my pew. The pastor thanked us for coming and then told us (Myers) we could leave. We had collected a lady that lives on the Citrus Farm along the way from Siteki (she was visiting her mother). When we were excused to leave she told me that the pastor was fussing at his congregation for not attending the Christmas Day services scheduled. Evidently no one attended and he felt he needed to explain that it was more important to worship and celebrate our Lord’s birthday on Christmas Day than fix our fancy food. He was still explaining this to the people when we drove away.
Tonight, the Vuvulane, Mafucula and Luwhhawhhaweni Baptist Churches will gather for New Year’s Services at Mafucula. A portion of the Jesus film will be shown as well as Pastor Nkosingiphile Dlamini (from the Shiselweni region) bringing the message and plenty of fellowship and singing. Pray this time will continue to promote unity and fellowship among our three churches in this area. Pray we will see the new year arrive together with hopes of reaping a great harvest of lost souls in 2011.
JANUARY MINISTRY EVENTS:
--The executive committee of the Baptist Convention of Swaziland meets on Saturday the 8th of January in Manzini. Planning has begun for the 2011 National Easter Services. Pray for the committee as they plan for this very important event.
--January 13th, is the scheduled training for teachers of the Swazi Baptist churches’ preschools at the Phuzumoya Baptist Church. In the last few years due to government regulations a few of our preschools have ceased to function. But, I am happy to say there are six preschools, Phuzumoya, Vovovo, Big Bend, Peace, Manzini and Velebantfu. Pray these schools will offer the best preschool education to the children attending. Pray the teachers will find this training very helpful.
AIDS UPDATE:
--January 16, True Love Waits International consultant, Kym Pennington is scheduled to arrive in Swaziland (January 16-27). While in the country she will meet with trained True Love Waits presenters, discuss plans for TLW ministry with pastors and begin her ministry with the Swazi people. With the AIDS pandemic continuing to devastate the country of Swaziland, pray leaders will rise up and stand strong in sharing the message of purity. Pray Kym’s visit to Swaziland will be the beginning of a wonderful ministry.
The rains have been good throughout Swaziland thus far. Pray the rains will not stop just when crops and gardens need it the most as usually is the case. Pray the rains will continue until April and May and there will be enough water to fill the streams and rivers and food for all Swazis.
Lisa Warren requests prayer for her father Lloyd Claiborne. He was admitted to the hospital Sunday after Christmas due to dehydration diagnosed to be from twisted intestines that will require surgery. He may also have problems with his heart. Pray for wisdom for the doctors to offer the best treatment for his medical condition. Pray for Lisa and her family as they wait to hear the doctors’ conclusions and plan of treatment.
GOD GRANT US HOPE AND FAITH AND LOVE HOPE for a world grown cynically cold,
Hungry for power and greedy for gold… FAITH to believe when within and without
There’s nameless fear in a world of doubt… LOVE that is bigger than race or creed,
To cover the world and fulfill each need… God, grant these gifts to all trouble hearts
As the old year ends and a new year starts.
--Helen Steiner Rice
Wishing you a very Happy New Year!!
Friday, December 24, 2010
Monthly Prayer Calendar - January
Saturday January 1: HAPPY NEW YEAR!!Pray 2011 will be a wonderful year for members of the Swazi Team as they minister to the Swazi people. Pray many Swazis will accept Jesus and put aside culture and traditions that conflict with the Christian way of life.
Sunday January 2: The Allens plan to start a new outreach group in the Hhohho region sometime this month. The “Jesus” film will be shown. Pray Steve and Monica will have a clear direction where to begin this Bible study. Pray many will desire to study God’s Word regularly and grow in their knowledge of the Lord and His ways.
Monday January 3: Todd and Deborah Hoskins are scheduled to move to an apartment (owned by TransWorld Radio) in Manzini this month. Pray as they make this move and pray for a continued desire to follow the Lord’s will in Swaziland. The Hoskins are 2-year church planters and will help develop the rural training schools.
Tuesday January 4: A few years ago a missionary was given a couple of pineapple tops to plant. After planting the tops he waited for about three years until finally he began to see evidence of a pineapple growing on one of the plants. It was another six months before the pineapple was ready to pick. What a joy it was to pick that first pineapple. Using this example of the growing pineapple one can see the growing of leaders and workers for the harvest field in Swaziland takes a long time. Working with youth and young adults in a culture that promotes an unchristian lifestyle can be emotionally trying but the reward can be so sweet. As missionaries on the Swazi Team struggle with disappointments, pray in 2011 they will look to the Lord for guidance, His wisdom and assurance that the outcome will be worth the wait.
Wednesday January 5: Last month Wayne Myers lost his oldest brother, Rusty due to complications of diabetes. In the last three years Wayne has lost four of his siblings. Pray for Terry currently in remission from stage 4 cancer, Patsy suffering with COPD and Lynda dealing with various health issues as well as Patsy’s husband, Jim. Pray the Lord will wrap His healing arms around this family.
Thursday January 6: Pray the Allens will soon receive the crate they packed prior to leaving the states in October. The crate was expected to arrive in Swaziland in December but the Allens received word last month that the crate had not left the states. Friday January 7: Today is Carroll Yawn’s birthday (Deborah Hoskins’ father). Pray Carroll will enjoy a special day with the family.
Saturday January 8: The executive committee of the Baptist Convention of Swaziland meets today in Manzini. Planning has begun for the 2011 National Easter Services. Pray for the committee as they plan for this very important event.
Sunday January 9: In December two from the Bethel Baptist Church accepted the Lord as their Savior and are waiting to be baptized. There are others in the Hhohho and Manzini regions also waiting to be baptized including Lacie Allen. Pray Steve Allen will soon be able to schedule baptism services. Baptisms are held outside and rain has been on the forecast for most Sundays.
Monday January 10: Mary Alice and Susanna Yawn (Deborah Hoskins’ sisters) begin their spring semester today at Georgia Southern. Please pray their classes will go well. This is Mary Alice’s last semester before graduation. Tuesday January 11: The Allen family will take a holiday January 11-12 to the Kruger National Game Reserve. Pray this will be a fun time for Lacie and Nathan. Pray they will see many animals and other interesting things.
Wednesday January 12: Pray for the Allens today on their anniversary!! Steve and Monica asked you to pray for the family as they worship with their Swazi brothers and sisters in the different Baptist churches. It is hard for Nathan to sit still very long. Thank you for praying. Monica reports that Nathan is beginning to sit still throughout an entire service. Please continue to pray for the Allen family as they try to set an example of family worshipping together to the Swazis in which they work. Swazis tend not to worship together as a family.
Thursday January 13: For the last few years the development of rural training schools for male pastors and leaders has been a prayer concern for the Swazi Team. So many of our pastors and leaders desire to be trained in the work in which the Lord has called them and have asked the missionaries to provide this training. It is a big undertaking that will help strengthen our Swazi Baptist pastors/leaders and churches. The first school in 2011 is scheduled for May 10-13 and the second school is September 20-23. Pray for Todd as he works out the logistics of the school and Steve and Wayne as they outline the curriculum. Pray the participants will come with a heart to learn and be trained. Pray wonderful blessings will touch the heart of each participant.
Friday January 14: The rains have been good throughout Swaziland thus far. Pray the rains will not stop just when crops and gardens need it the most as usually is the case. Pray the rains will continue until April and May and there will be enough water to fill the streams and rivers and provide food for all Swazis.
Saturday January 15: True Love Waits International consultant, Kym Pennington is scheduled to be in Swaziland January 15-27. While in the country she will meet with trained True Love Waits presenters, different pastors and discuss plans for TLW ministry in Swaziland. With the AIDS pandemic continuing to devastate the country of Swaziland, pray leaders will rise up and stand strong in sharing the message of purity. Pray for Kym as she begins her time of ministry with the Swazis and Swazi Team.
Sunday January 16: Pray for the new church, Jikwene Baptist (Lubumbo region) and Pastor Musa Mamba. This church began in May 2010. Pray the Lord will be glorified in this new work.
Monday January 17: Today Lacie Allen begins 1st grade at the Sifundzani Primary School in Mbabane. Pray for Lacie as she begins a new experience. Pray she will adjust well. Nathan Allen will attend preschool two mornings a week (Monday and Wednesday) beginning the 19th of January. Pray Nathan will do well and adjust to the structure of school.
Tuesday January 18: Please continue praying for the IMB Presidential Search Committee as they seek God’s man to lead our organization.
Wednesday January 19: The Ntuthwakazi and Velebantfu Baptist Churches conducted revival services in the last few weeks. The services were well attended. Pray the seeds of salvation were sown in the hearts of those who attended the services and do not know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Pray soon the seeds will be able to take root and many new believers will bloom!!
Thursday January 20: One of the biggest problems facing many of the Swazi Baptist churches continues to be the lack of pastors. Many of the churches continue to meet under lay leadership who get discouraged that God has not provided them with pastoral leadership. Pray for godly and strong fruitful leaders for every Swazi Baptist church that will commit to faithfulness to the church and its members.
Friday January 21: Pray 2011 will be the year the King of Swaziland, his wives and children will hear the true Gospel message. Pray for a change in beliefs and lifestyles in the royal family.
Saturday January 22: Recently the Myers were asked to pray for a young lady of the Mafucula Baptist Church who was very sick. They were told she had TB or possibly pneumonia. Usually when missionaries hear the word TB they automatically think of HIV/AIDS since TB is a symptom of the disease. When they arrived they found the young lady struggling to breath and were told she had started coughing up blood earlier in the day. She was scheduled to see her doctor the next day in Siteki. The Myers and other church members prayed with this young lady. We are happy to say she has recovered enough to return to work, but we do ask you to pray if this one is HIV positive she will soon be able to receive the ARVs (anti-retro viral drugs) that will prolong her life. Pray she and others like her will know what the Lord expects of His children and may they be comforted to know He is walking beside them.
Sunday January 23: Pray for the controversy and conflict in the Victory Baptist Church due to leadership by one person. People are leaving the church. Pray for the Allens as they seek the Lord’s direction in dealing with this sticky situation.
Monday January 24: Many in Swaziland do not have the promise of eternal life. For some their belief in Islam keeps them from knowing the true Son of God. The poverty of Swazis leave them open to promises of jobs, money, security if they convert to the Muslim faith. Pray Swazis will not be led by a false sense of security outside the Christian faith. Pray for Christian renewal throughout the country.
Tuesday January 25: A testimony from a Swazi: “I accepted the Lord in October 1994. Before I was a Christian I didn’t know I was a sinner. I thought I was perfect. I didn’t fight with others or drink. I saw other people going to church but I didn’t know why they were going. The Baptist missionaries who came to Swaziland helped me change. Through their teaching I came to know I needed Jesus in my life. I learned I was a sinner and I needed Jesus to change me. I asked Him for forgiveness of my sins. Before the Baptists, I never had a person talk to me about Jesus or ask me if I was a Christian.” Because of your giving to the Lottie Moon Christmas offering we are able to share the Gospel with many Swazis such as this one. Pray giving to the 2010 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering will be enable the missionary force on the field to continue with the work of evangelizing the many lost people of the world.
Wednesday January 26: Pray Swazi Baptist pastors and laymen will see the need to start new groups/churches so many Swazis will come to know Jesus as their Savior. Pray barriers will be overcome and more Swazi Baptist churches will be started.
Thursday January 27: Sub-Saharan African Unengaged Peoples: The baboon is one of the larger apes found across sub-Saharan Africa. Baboons are not only very clever, but also dangerous, able to hunt small antelope with their speed and powerful jaws. The baboon is also the totem chosen by the Bahananwa Pedi people. The Bahananwa live in the northwestern part of the Limpopo Province, South Africa. There is currently no missionary sharing the Gospel with the Bahananwa. Pray that they will know of God’s love for them and His plan or their salvation through Jesus Christ. Pray that their eyes will be opened to the danger of rejecting God for false gods. Pray their hearts will be penetrated by the Gospel, resulting in the Bahananwa bowing before His Throne.
Friday January 28: February 26-March 3 a volunteer team from the Atlantic Association (NC) will minister in Swaziland in the Shiselweni region. Plans include an overnight ladies’ retreat as well as a weekend youth retreat. We are thankful for this group of volunteers giving of their time and money to help evangelize and disciple Swazis. Pray for this team as planning continues for their trip to Swaziland. Pray for the Myers as they prepare for the team’s arrival and ministry.
Saturday January 29: March 30-April 4, 2011 is the scheduled Cluster Strategy Meeting. Those attending will stay at the Birchwood Conference Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa. The First Baptist Church of Orlando will provide the volunteers to work with the missionary children (MK-missionary kids) program and lead in the worship services. Your missionaries on the Swazi Team will attend this meeting. Pray for the continued preparations/logistics for this meeting. Pray for spiritual preparedness for the missionaries attending, volunteers ministering and leadership that is leading.
Sunday January 30: “Pastor, here are my tithes which I have been owing my Jesus Christ. Please pray for me for doing that, the situation was too bad. From now I swear I won’t owe him.” These words were spoken by a member of the Vuvulane Baptist Church who realized she was sinning against her Lord by not giving him a tenth of her earnings. Pray the Swazi Baptist churches will teach their members the importance of tithing to the Lord. Pray for great spiritual fruits from these teachings.
Monday January 31: The Allens are hosting a volunteer team from the Clear Creek Bible School (Pineville, Ky.) March 13-19. Ministries include revivals, studies with children, youth and adults as well as homestead visitation. Pray for this team as preparations continue for their ministry in Swaziland. Pray for the Allens as they work with this team.
Sunday January 2: The Allens plan to start a new outreach group in the Hhohho region sometime this month. The “Jesus” film will be shown. Pray Steve and Monica will have a clear direction where to begin this Bible study. Pray many will desire to study God’s Word regularly and grow in their knowledge of the Lord and His ways.
Monday January 3: Todd and Deborah Hoskins are scheduled to move to an apartment (owned by TransWorld Radio) in Manzini this month. Pray as they make this move and pray for a continued desire to follow the Lord’s will in Swaziland. The Hoskins are 2-year church planters and will help develop the rural training schools.
Tuesday January 4: A few years ago a missionary was given a couple of pineapple tops to plant. After planting the tops he waited for about three years until finally he began to see evidence of a pineapple growing on one of the plants. It was another six months before the pineapple was ready to pick. What a joy it was to pick that first pineapple. Using this example of the growing pineapple one can see the growing of leaders and workers for the harvest field in Swaziland takes a long time. Working with youth and young adults in a culture that promotes an unchristian lifestyle can be emotionally trying but the reward can be so sweet. As missionaries on the Swazi Team struggle with disappointments, pray in 2011 they will look to the Lord for guidance, His wisdom and assurance that the outcome will be worth the wait.
Wednesday January 5: Last month Wayne Myers lost his oldest brother, Rusty due to complications of diabetes. In the last three years Wayne has lost four of his siblings. Pray for Terry currently in remission from stage 4 cancer, Patsy suffering with COPD and Lynda dealing with various health issues as well as Patsy’s husband, Jim. Pray the Lord will wrap His healing arms around this family.
Thursday January 6: Pray the Allens will soon receive the crate they packed prior to leaving the states in October. The crate was expected to arrive in Swaziland in December but the Allens received word last month that the crate had not left the states. Friday January 7: Today is Carroll Yawn’s birthday (Deborah Hoskins’ father). Pray Carroll will enjoy a special day with the family.
Saturday January 8: The executive committee of the Baptist Convention of Swaziland meets today in Manzini. Planning has begun for the 2011 National Easter Services. Pray for the committee as they plan for this very important event.
Sunday January 9: In December two from the Bethel Baptist Church accepted the Lord as their Savior and are waiting to be baptized. There are others in the Hhohho and Manzini regions also waiting to be baptized including Lacie Allen. Pray Steve Allen will soon be able to schedule baptism services. Baptisms are held outside and rain has been on the forecast for most Sundays.
Monday January 10: Mary Alice and Susanna Yawn (Deborah Hoskins’ sisters) begin their spring semester today at Georgia Southern. Please pray their classes will go well. This is Mary Alice’s last semester before graduation. Tuesday January 11: The Allen family will take a holiday January 11-12 to the Kruger National Game Reserve. Pray this will be a fun time for Lacie and Nathan. Pray they will see many animals and other interesting things.
Wednesday January 12: Pray for the Allens today on their anniversary!! Steve and Monica asked you to pray for the family as they worship with their Swazi brothers and sisters in the different Baptist churches. It is hard for Nathan to sit still very long. Thank you for praying. Monica reports that Nathan is beginning to sit still throughout an entire service. Please continue to pray for the Allen family as they try to set an example of family worshipping together to the Swazis in which they work. Swazis tend not to worship together as a family.
Thursday January 13: For the last few years the development of rural training schools for male pastors and leaders has been a prayer concern for the Swazi Team. So many of our pastors and leaders desire to be trained in the work in which the Lord has called them and have asked the missionaries to provide this training. It is a big undertaking that will help strengthen our Swazi Baptist pastors/leaders and churches. The first school in 2011 is scheduled for May 10-13 and the second school is September 20-23. Pray for Todd as he works out the logistics of the school and Steve and Wayne as they outline the curriculum. Pray the participants will come with a heart to learn and be trained. Pray wonderful blessings will touch the heart of each participant.
Friday January 14: The rains have been good throughout Swaziland thus far. Pray the rains will not stop just when crops and gardens need it the most as usually is the case. Pray the rains will continue until April and May and there will be enough water to fill the streams and rivers and provide food for all Swazis.
Saturday January 15: True Love Waits International consultant, Kym Pennington is scheduled to be in Swaziland January 15-27. While in the country she will meet with trained True Love Waits presenters, different pastors and discuss plans for TLW ministry in Swaziland. With the AIDS pandemic continuing to devastate the country of Swaziland, pray leaders will rise up and stand strong in sharing the message of purity. Pray for Kym as she begins her time of ministry with the Swazis and Swazi Team.
Sunday January 16: Pray for the new church, Jikwene Baptist (Lubumbo region) and Pastor Musa Mamba. This church began in May 2010. Pray the Lord will be glorified in this new work.
Monday January 17: Today Lacie Allen begins 1st grade at the Sifundzani Primary School in Mbabane. Pray for Lacie as she begins a new experience. Pray she will adjust well. Nathan Allen will attend preschool two mornings a week (Monday and Wednesday) beginning the 19th of January. Pray Nathan will do well and adjust to the structure of school.
Tuesday January 18: Please continue praying for the IMB Presidential Search Committee as they seek God’s man to lead our organization.
Wednesday January 19: The Ntuthwakazi and Velebantfu Baptist Churches conducted revival services in the last few weeks. The services were well attended. Pray the seeds of salvation were sown in the hearts of those who attended the services and do not know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Pray soon the seeds will be able to take root and many new believers will bloom!!
Thursday January 20: One of the biggest problems facing many of the Swazi Baptist churches continues to be the lack of pastors. Many of the churches continue to meet under lay leadership who get discouraged that God has not provided them with pastoral leadership. Pray for godly and strong fruitful leaders for every Swazi Baptist church that will commit to faithfulness to the church and its members.
Friday January 21: Pray 2011 will be the year the King of Swaziland, his wives and children will hear the true Gospel message. Pray for a change in beliefs and lifestyles in the royal family.
Saturday January 22: Recently the Myers were asked to pray for a young lady of the Mafucula Baptist Church who was very sick. They were told she had TB or possibly pneumonia. Usually when missionaries hear the word TB they automatically think of HIV/AIDS since TB is a symptom of the disease. When they arrived they found the young lady struggling to breath and were told she had started coughing up blood earlier in the day. She was scheduled to see her doctor the next day in Siteki. The Myers and other church members prayed with this young lady. We are happy to say she has recovered enough to return to work, but we do ask you to pray if this one is HIV positive she will soon be able to receive the ARVs (anti-retro viral drugs) that will prolong her life. Pray she and others like her will know what the Lord expects of His children and may they be comforted to know He is walking beside them.
Sunday January 23: Pray for the controversy and conflict in the Victory Baptist Church due to leadership by one person. People are leaving the church. Pray for the Allens as they seek the Lord’s direction in dealing with this sticky situation.
Monday January 24: Many in Swaziland do not have the promise of eternal life. For some their belief in Islam keeps them from knowing the true Son of God. The poverty of Swazis leave them open to promises of jobs, money, security if they convert to the Muslim faith. Pray Swazis will not be led by a false sense of security outside the Christian faith. Pray for Christian renewal throughout the country.
Tuesday January 25: A testimony from a Swazi: “I accepted the Lord in October 1994. Before I was a Christian I didn’t know I was a sinner. I thought I was perfect. I didn’t fight with others or drink. I saw other people going to church but I didn’t know why they were going. The Baptist missionaries who came to Swaziland helped me change. Through their teaching I came to know I needed Jesus in my life. I learned I was a sinner and I needed Jesus to change me. I asked Him for forgiveness of my sins. Before the Baptists, I never had a person talk to me about Jesus or ask me if I was a Christian.” Because of your giving to the Lottie Moon Christmas offering we are able to share the Gospel with many Swazis such as this one. Pray giving to the 2010 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering will be enable the missionary force on the field to continue with the work of evangelizing the many lost people of the world.
Wednesday January 26: Pray Swazi Baptist pastors and laymen will see the need to start new groups/churches so many Swazis will come to know Jesus as their Savior. Pray barriers will be overcome and more Swazi Baptist churches will be started.
Thursday January 27: Sub-Saharan African Unengaged Peoples: The baboon is one of the larger apes found across sub-Saharan Africa. Baboons are not only very clever, but also dangerous, able to hunt small antelope with their speed and powerful jaws. The baboon is also the totem chosen by the Bahananwa Pedi people. The Bahananwa live in the northwestern part of the Limpopo Province, South Africa. There is currently no missionary sharing the Gospel with the Bahananwa. Pray that they will know of God’s love for them and His plan or their salvation through Jesus Christ. Pray that their eyes will be opened to the danger of rejecting God for false gods. Pray their hearts will be penetrated by the Gospel, resulting in the Bahananwa bowing before His Throne.
Friday January 28: February 26-March 3 a volunteer team from the Atlantic Association (NC) will minister in Swaziland in the Shiselweni region. Plans include an overnight ladies’ retreat as well as a weekend youth retreat. We are thankful for this group of volunteers giving of their time and money to help evangelize and disciple Swazis. Pray for this team as planning continues for their trip to Swaziland. Pray for the Myers as they prepare for the team’s arrival and ministry.
Saturday January 29: March 30-April 4, 2011 is the scheduled Cluster Strategy Meeting. Those attending will stay at the Birchwood Conference Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa. The First Baptist Church of Orlando will provide the volunteers to work with the missionary children (MK-missionary kids) program and lead in the worship services. Your missionaries on the Swazi Team will attend this meeting. Pray for the continued preparations/logistics for this meeting. Pray for spiritual preparedness for the missionaries attending, volunteers ministering and leadership that is leading.
Sunday January 30: “Pastor, here are my tithes which I have been owing my Jesus Christ. Please pray for me for doing that, the situation was too bad. From now I swear I won’t owe him.” These words were spoken by a member of the Vuvulane Baptist Church who realized she was sinning against her Lord by not giving him a tenth of her earnings. Pray the Swazi Baptist churches will teach their members the importance of tithing to the Lord. Pray for great spiritual fruits from these teachings.
Monday January 31: The Allens are hosting a volunteer team from the Clear Creek Bible School (Pineville, Ky.) March 13-19. Ministries include revivals, studies with children, youth and adults as well as homestead visitation. Pray for this team as preparations continue for their ministry in Swaziland. Pray for the Allens as they work with this team.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Merry Christmas from the Hoskins!
Thank you for your prayers! We will be moving into an apartment on the top floor of the TransWorld Radio building in Manzini, Swaziland in a couple of weeks. We are excited that we will be closer to our areas of ministry and that our rent will be supporting another Christian ministry here in Swaziland.
We had a wonderful meeting this month with the rest of our team discussing the plans for the upcoming year. It was very helpful for us to be able to get the big picture of the work that has been done, is being done, and is to be done. We now have a much better idea of our role in the team's work. We hope to organize a rural Bible training school for pastors and church leaders for our local churches. Ideally, this will give the church leaders the training that they crave without having the extensive time and expense of formal seminary training that is largely inaccessible. Please pray for wisdom and direction as Todd works on the logistics for this venture.
We were able to get a short video clip from our stays in Ghana. You can view it by clicking on the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iHFkn7-l-oc Or search "Entry 001_Nalerigu, Ghana" on YouTube.
Thank you for your support!
Merry Christmas!
We had a wonderful meeting this month with the rest of our team discussing the plans for the upcoming year. It was very helpful for us to be able to get the big picture of the work that has been done, is being done, and is to be done. We now have a much better idea of our role in the team's work. We hope to organize a rural Bible training school for pastors and church leaders for our local churches. Ideally, this will give the church leaders the training that they crave without having the extensive time and expense of formal seminary training that is largely inaccessible. Please pray for wisdom and direction as Todd works on the logistics for this venture.
We were able to get a short video clip from our stays in Ghana. You can view it by clicking on the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iHFkn7-l-oc Or search "Entry 001_Nalerigu, Ghana" on YouTube.
Thank you for your support!
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas from the Allen Family!!!
Sanibonani! Greetings from Swaziland, Africa! We cannot believe that it is almost time for Christmas and the year 2010 is drawing to a close. Where did this year go as it passed by quite fast? As we look back over the past year, it is the first time our family spent half the year in one country and the other half in another. This year was our time to be in the USA for our stateside time and we were all over the southeastern part of the USA for six months. It was tons of fun to be in the USA again with family and friends, mostly in North Carolina and Florida. It was a great time to share with churches and folks how God is working in Swaziland and giving our family many opportunities to tell others about Christ. We did our best to not overwhelm ourselves with speaking engagements and have some special family times as well. Not always an easy balance but we managed to accomplish seeing much and doing several different fun things, too.
Some of our big highlights this year were: Lacie asking Jesus Christ into her life on Father’s Day in June, spending time with all of Steven’s siblings and their families as we honored his parent’s 50th wedding anniversary, special trips to Sea World, Florida Keys, Disney World, Georgia Aquarium, the zoo and sharing many memories with family and friends for several months. Steven also spent much of his stateside time writing and recording an archeological dig he did in Eastern North Carolina back in the mid-1990’s.
At the end of September, we boarded the plane once again to return to Swaziland to continue serving our Lord together as a family. We hit the ground running with ministry and getting back into the swing of life in Africa again. It was good to be back with our Swazi brothers and sisters in Christ. Lacie returned to school again, Bible studies continued, our women’s camp was a wonderful time for our Swazi women, new personnel arrived to join our mission family and Steve had his appendix removed. Yes, it has been a roller coaster ride in many ways! J
The kids are growing and growing. Lacie is now 6 years old, graduated from kindergarten on December 1, starting grade 1 in January, looking forward to her summer break and placed 2nd at gymnastics national competition. Nathan is 2.5 years old, energetic, full of life and keeps us going. He is all boy and we love to see him learning new things all the time.
Our prayer is that you will seek and find the real meaning of Christmas wherever you are this year and to remember - Jesus IS the Reason for the Season!
Some of our big highlights this year were: Lacie asking Jesus Christ into her life on Father’s Day in June, spending time with all of Steven’s siblings and their families as we honored his parent’s 50th wedding anniversary, special trips to Sea World, Florida Keys, Disney World, Georgia Aquarium, the zoo and sharing many memories with family and friends for several months. Steven also spent much of his stateside time writing and recording an archeological dig he did in Eastern North Carolina back in the mid-1990’s.
At the end of September, we boarded the plane once again to return to Swaziland to continue serving our Lord together as a family. We hit the ground running with ministry and getting back into the swing of life in Africa again. It was good to be back with our Swazi brothers and sisters in Christ. Lacie returned to school again, Bible studies continued, our women’s camp was a wonderful time for our Swazi women, new personnel arrived to join our mission family and Steve had his appendix removed. Yes, it has been a roller coaster ride in many ways! J
The kids are growing and growing. Lacie is now 6 years old, graduated from kindergarten on December 1, starting grade 1 in January, looking forward to her summer break and placed 2nd at gymnastics national competition. Nathan is 2.5 years old, energetic, full of life and keeps us going. He is all boy and we love to see him learning new things all the time.
Our prayer is that you will seek and find the real meaning of Christmas wherever you are this year and to remember - Jesus IS the Reason for the Season!
Merry Christmas from the Myers
This ageless story has always been the source of inspiration, and Joseph Mohr (1792-1848) found that it was to him. In 1818, when he was assistant pastor of Oberdorf, near Arnsdorf, he attended a Christmas Eve meeting at the Arnsdorf schoolhouse. He was greeted by Franz Gruber, the schoolmaster, organist, songwriter, and intimate friend. As the Christmas celebration progressed, Mohr withdrew from the room. Later when recalled to participate in the service, he brought with him a folded paper, a gift to Franze Gruber. Gruber opened it and read aloud, “Silent Night, Holy Night,” the poem which has become the best-loved of all the Christmas hymns.So touched was he by this beautiful poetic gift that a sudden inspiration seemed to come to him. A short time later after Mr. Mohr had retired that evening he heard his poem being sung to the beautiful tune, “Stille Nacht.” Mr. Gruber had composed the melody!! Thus, on that memorable eve in 1818, the richness of the Christmas thought and spirit found its impression in:Silent night, holy night, All is calm, all is bright, Round yon Virgin Mother and Child, Holy Infant so tender and mild, Sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace.Silent night, holy night, Wondrous stars, lend thy light; With the angels let us sing Alleluia to our King! Christ the Savior is born, Christ the Savior is born. –Joseph Mohr, 1818 (Christ and the Fine Arts; by Cynthia Pearl Maus, 1938, 1959, Harper & Brothers Publishers, New York).
May the peace of Christmas fill us with the joy and laughter. The joy of this season does not hinder the sadness that may come to our lives. Wayne’s oldest brother, Rusty had been dealing with some very serious health issues due to diabetes. Yesterday when undergoing his daily dialysis he passed away. Rusty was 74 years old and lived in Lexington, Ky. We do not have any details concerning funeral arrangements. We ask that you pray for the family as they deal with this loss. Pray for his wife, children and grandchildren as they grieve the loss of a husband, father and grandfather.
--Next week (December 27-January 2) the Velebantfu Baptist Church will conduct revival services. Pray these services will reach many people for the Lord. May the members of the church truly experience revival.
NAMES OF GOD THE SON: BABE And they (shepherds) came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph and the babe lying in a manger. Luke 2:16
The wonder of Christmas is that Jesus was born in a stable that included straw for a bed with animals for night time companions. It is natural for us to wonder why God would choose this way to send His Son into the world. He could have arrived as a king to the blast of trumpets. He could have dazzled the crowds by riding into town as a triumphant general at the head of a massive army. But perhaps God wanted His Son to experience the helplessness of a little baby so He could sympathize with us in our sins and weakness. Going through the stages of life like all the people do, He could participate fully in the humanity of those He came to serve. (From the book The Names of God by George W. Knight 2009)
We want to wish each of you a most Merry Christmas!
Thank you for your faithful support in prayer of the work with the Swazi people.
May the peace of Christmas fill us with the joy and laughter. The joy of this season does not hinder the sadness that may come to our lives. Wayne’s oldest brother, Rusty had been dealing with some very serious health issues due to diabetes. Yesterday when undergoing his daily dialysis he passed away. Rusty was 74 years old and lived in Lexington, Ky. We do not have any details concerning funeral arrangements. We ask that you pray for the family as they deal with this loss. Pray for his wife, children and grandchildren as they grieve the loss of a husband, father and grandfather.
--Next week (December 27-January 2) the Velebantfu Baptist Church will conduct revival services. Pray these services will reach many people for the Lord. May the members of the church truly experience revival.
NAMES OF GOD THE SON: BABE And they (shepherds) came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph and the babe lying in a manger. Luke 2:16
The wonder of Christmas is that Jesus was born in a stable that included straw for a bed with animals for night time companions. It is natural for us to wonder why God would choose this way to send His Son into the world. He could have arrived as a king to the blast of trumpets. He could have dazzled the crowds by riding into town as a triumphant general at the head of a massive army. But perhaps God wanted His Son to experience the helplessness of a little baby so He could sympathize with us in our sins and weakness. Going through the stages of life like all the people do, He could participate fully in the humanity of those He came to serve. (From the book The Names of God by George W. Knight 2009)
We want to wish each of you a most Merry Christmas!
Thank you for your faithful support in prayer of the work with the Swazi people.
Myers Weekly Prayer Letter
Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the new-born King;
Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled.”
Joyful all ye nations, rise, join the triumph of the skies;
With th’ angelic host proclaim, “Christ is born in Bethlehem!
”Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the new-born King!”
--Charles Wesley, 1739
It is difficult to speak of the works of Charles Wesley without coupling his efforts with those of his brothers, John and Samuel. Four thousand hymns were published in the lifetime of the Wesleys and about twenty-five hundred were left in manuscript form.Although Charles Wesley was considered the greatest hymn-writer ever produced by the Church of England, only one of his hymns---“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”---was admitted to their Book of Common Prayer for many years.More than a century passed before the poem became associated with any fixed tune. Dr. Cummings, principal of the Guild Hall School of Music discovered this tune in Mendelssohn’s “Festgesang.”(Christ and the Fine Arts, by Cynthia Pearl Maus, 1938, 1959, Harper & Brothers Publishers, New York)May the peace of Christmas fill each of our hearts with joy.
--It is understood by everyone that Swazi weddings never start on time!! Usually I pass on the pleasure of attending an event that starts at least two hours late and lasts all day!! But, since Chris Msibi was getting married I felt my presence was necessary and so I prepared myself for a day of misery. Annah Thwala (Chris’ mother) told Wayne that the wedding was to start at 9:30 but we didn’t need to be there until 10:30(she knows my feelings concerning Swazi weddings L). We left Tshaneni at 7:30am and felt we had enough time to make the trip as well as a side stop by Ntuthwakazi (it wasn’t on our way) to collect Nkosingiphile Dlamini and few other guys that were helping with the Ntuthwakazi revival. This stop put us in the position of being terribly late for a Swazi wedding, which is not easy to do. Finally almost nearing our destination, Chris phoned and asked “Where are you?” I assured him we were within 10 minutes of our destination. We arrived at 11:30!! After we were seated we had to wait another 30-45 minutes before the wedding officially started. Since Wayne was the preacher, I think Chris was waiting until we arrived (oops!!) before his wedding party left Mgamudze for the Florence Academy (20 minute drive). When the wedding did finally start everything moved rather quickly and by 3:30pm the food was brought out for everyone to enjoy. We were able to see many of our Shiselweni friends and I must admit I rather enjoyed myself!! Pray for Chris and S’phesihle as they start their lives together. Pray they will be witnesses to others desiring Christian weddings and lifestyles.
--The Swazi Team end-of-the-year retreat in White River, South Africa (December 13-15) was also enjoyable. We stayed at a lovely location (Mercy Air Guesthouse) and were within minutes of Nelspriut where we could shop and eat when our business was completed!! I personally felt this was one of our better retreats and much was accomplished. Thank you for praying for this special event.
---One of the items of business discussed was the Rural Training School that has been a prayer concern for the Swazi Team for the last few years. So many of our pastors and church leaders desire to be trained in the work in which the Lord has called them and have asked the missionaries to help provide this training. It is a big undertaking that will help strengthen our Swazi Baptist pastors/leaders and churches. We are excited to say the first Rural Training School will be in May 2011 and the second school in September 2011. Todd (Hoskins) will work on the logistics of the school and Wayne and Steve (Allen) will outline the curriculum. Please pray for the organization of the Swazi Rural Training Schools that hopefully will meet three times a year. Pray the Lord will direct all the planning and logistical work that needs to be done and pray the participants will come with a heart to learn and be trained. Pray wonderful blessings will touch the heart of each participant.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO WAYNE ON THE 20TH OF DECEMBER!!
The Swazi Team is celebrating Wayne’s birthday Monday here at Tshaneni!! Pray for a great time of fun and fellowship. Pray Wayne’s special day will indeed be special. (You can send your birthday wishes to Wayne at wmyers@shelbywireless.net or swaziwayne@gmail.com). We will also celebrate our wedding anniversary on the 21st of December. Pray we will have many more anniversaries to celebrate!!
AIDS UPDATE:Thank you for praying for the prayer request sent last week concerning the young lady of the Mafucula Baptist Church (see below). Pastor Masuku phoned on Tuesday to say she was much better and had gone back to work. He did not tell us what the doctor said was her diagnosis or any other particulars. Pray she will continue to stay well and able to work. Pray she will also know what the Lord expects of her as His child and may she be comforted to know He is walking beside her.
--Sunday we were invited to attend the Mafacula Baptist Church’s children’s Christmas party. The children were in charge of the worship and food was provided following the service. After we had eaten we were asked to go to a home and pray for a young lady of the church who was very sick. We were told she had TB or possibly pneumonia. When we hear this we always think of HIV/AIDS since TB is one of the main symptoms of the disease. When we arrived we found this young lady had been my interpreter for Luwhhawhhaweni when I was leading a weekly children’s Bible study. She had lost weight and was clearly struggling to breath. The group prayed for her. The mother reported her daughter had started coughing up blood and they were returning to Siteki on Monday to get he reports from previous x-rays and to see the doctor. Pray for this one to receive medical help that is needed. If she is HIV/AIDS pray she will be able to soon begin taking the ARVs that will prolong her life.
When was the first Southern Baptist career missionary appointed specifically to work with the deaf? December 1988. Appointed to Colombia, the missionary had to learn not only Spanish but also Colombian sign language.
LOTTIE MOON CHRISTMAS OFFERING: Goal $175 millionThe Christmas season is a time of giving!! Throughout her career, Lottie Moon wrote numerous letters home, urging Southern Baptists to greater missions involvement and support. One of these letters triggered Southern Baptists’ first Christmas offering for international missions—enough to send three new missionaries to China. Please give to the 2010 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering so many lost people will have a chance to hear the salvation story and believe.
During this holiday season, please pray the Swazis of Swaziland will truly understand who Jesus is and follow Him completely putting aside traditions that conflict with the Christian way of life.
Christmas is more than a day at the end of the year,
More than a season of joy and good cheer,
Christmas is really God’s pattern for living
To be followed all year by unselfish giving.
-Helen Steiner Rice
Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled.”
Joyful all ye nations, rise, join the triumph of the skies;
With th’ angelic host proclaim, “Christ is born in Bethlehem!
”Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the new-born King!”
--Charles Wesley, 1739
It is difficult to speak of the works of Charles Wesley without coupling his efforts with those of his brothers, John and Samuel. Four thousand hymns were published in the lifetime of the Wesleys and about twenty-five hundred were left in manuscript form.Although Charles Wesley was considered the greatest hymn-writer ever produced by the Church of England, only one of his hymns---“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”---was admitted to their Book of Common Prayer for many years.More than a century passed before the poem became associated with any fixed tune. Dr. Cummings, principal of the Guild Hall School of Music discovered this tune in Mendelssohn’s “Festgesang.”(Christ and the Fine Arts, by Cynthia Pearl Maus, 1938, 1959, Harper & Brothers Publishers, New York)May the peace of Christmas fill each of our hearts with joy.
--It is understood by everyone that Swazi weddings never start on time!! Usually I pass on the pleasure of attending an event that starts at least two hours late and lasts all day!! But, since Chris Msibi was getting married I felt my presence was necessary and so I prepared myself for a day of misery. Annah Thwala (Chris’ mother) told Wayne that the wedding was to start at 9:30 but we didn’t need to be there until 10:30(she knows my feelings concerning Swazi weddings L). We left Tshaneni at 7:30am and felt we had enough time to make the trip as well as a side stop by Ntuthwakazi (it wasn’t on our way) to collect Nkosingiphile Dlamini and few other guys that were helping with the Ntuthwakazi revival. This stop put us in the position of being terribly late for a Swazi wedding, which is not easy to do. Finally almost nearing our destination, Chris phoned and asked “Where are you?” I assured him we were within 10 minutes of our destination. We arrived at 11:30!! After we were seated we had to wait another 30-45 minutes before the wedding officially started. Since Wayne was the preacher, I think Chris was waiting until we arrived (oops!!) before his wedding party left Mgamudze for the Florence Academy (20 minute drive). When the wedding did finally start everything moved rather quickly and by 3:30pm the food was brought out for everyone to enjoy. We were able to see many of our Shiselweni friends and I must admit I rather enjoyed myself!! Pray for Chris and S’phesihle as they start their lives together. Pray they will be witnesses to others desiring Christian weddings and lifestyles.
--The Swazi Team end-of-the-year retreat in White River, South Africa (December 13-15) was also enjoyable. We stayed at a lovely location (Mercy Air Guesthouse) and were within minutes of Nelspriut where we could shop and eat when our business was completed!! I personally felt this was one of our better retreats and much was accomplished. Thank you for praying for this special event.
---One of the items of business discussed was the Rural Training School that has been a prayer concern for the Swazi Team for the last few years. So many of our pastors and church leaders desire to be trained in the work in which the Lord has called them and have asked the missionaries to help provide this training. It is a big undertaking that will help strengthen our Swazi Baptist pastors/leaders and churches. We are excited to say the first Rural Training School will be in May 2011 and the second school in September 2011. Todd (Hoskins) will work on the logistics of the school and Wayne and Steve (Allen) will outline the curriculum. Please pray for the organization of the Swazi Rural Training Schools that hopefully will meet three times a year. Pray the Lord will direct all the planning and logistical work that needs to be done and pray the participants will come with a heart to learn and be trained. Pray wonderful blessings will touch the heart of each participant.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO WAYNE ON THE 20TH OF DECEMBER!!
The Swazi Team is celebrating Wayne’s birthday Monday here at Tshaneni!! Pray for a great time of fun and fellowship. Pray Wayne’s special day will indeed be special. (You can send your birthday wishes to Wayne at wmyers@shelbywireless.net or swaziwayne@gmail.com). We will also celebrate our wedding anniversary on the 21st of December. Pray we will have many more anniversaries to celebrate!!
AIDS UPDATE:Thank you for praying for the prayer request sent last week concerning the young lady of the Mafucula Baptist Church (see below). Pastor Masuku phoned on Tuesday to say she was much better and had gone back to work. He did not tell us what the doctor said was her diagnosis or any other particulars. Pray she will continue to stay well and able to work. Pray she will also know what the Lord expects of her as His child and may she be comforted to know He is walking beside her.
--Sunday we were invited to attend the Mafacula Baptist Church’s children’s Christmas party. The children were in charge of the worship and food was provided following the service. After we had eaten we were asked to go to a home and pray for a young lady of the church who was very sick. We were told she had TB or possibly pneumonia. When we hear this we always think of HIV/AIDS since TB is one of the main symptoms of the disease. When we arrived we found this young lady had been my interpreter for Luwhhawhhaweni when I was leading a weekly children’s Bible study. She had lost weight and was clearly struggling to breath. The group prayed for her. The mother reported her daughter had started coughing up blood and they were returning to Siteki on Monday to get he reports from previous x-rays and to see the doctor. Pray for this one to receive medical help that is needed. If she is HIV/AIDS pray she will be able to soon begin taking the ARVs that will prolong her life.
When was the first Southern Baptist career missionary appointed specifically to work with the deaf? December 1988. Appointed to Colombia, the missionary had to learn not only Spanish but also Colombian sign language.
LOTTIE MOON CHRISTMAS OFFERING: Goal $175 millionThe Christmas season is a time of giving!! Throughout her career, Lottie Moon wrote numerous letters home, urging Southern Baptists to greater missions involvement and support. One of these letters triggered Southern Baptists’ first Christmas offering for international missions—enough to send three new missionaries to China. Please give to the 2010 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering so many lost people will have a chance to hear the salvation story and believe.
During this holiday season, please pray the Swazis of Swaziland will truly understand who Jesus is and follow Him completely putting aside traditions that conflict with the Christian way of life.
Christmas is more than a day at the end of the year,
More than a season of joy and good cheer,
Christmas is really God’s pattern for living
To be followed all year by unselfish giving.
-Helen Steiner Rice
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Updated Photos of Swaziland Baptist Mission Family
Updated individual family photos taken during our Thanksgiving time together...enjoy! Hope to get an updated group photo at our annual end of the year retreat this coming week.
Wayne and Barbara Myers
Todd and Deborah Hoskins
Steve, Monica, Lacie and Nathan Allen
Wayne and Barbara Myers
Todd and Deborah Hoskins
Steve, Monica, Lacie and Nathan AllenMyers Weekly Prayer Letter
I heard the bells on Christmas day their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat of peace on earth, good-will to men.
And thought of how, as the day had come, the belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song of peace on earth, good-will to men.
Till, ringing, singing on its way, the world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime, of peace on earth good-will to men.
(Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1807-1892)
The hymn “I Heard the Bells” was written at Christmas time in 1863. The time at which the hymn was penned found the United States in the midst of bloody turmoil. The Civil War was at its climax. This beloved American poet (Wadsworth) must have been much concerned for in every stanza there is an emphasis on “peace on earth, good-will to men.”
(Christ and the Fine Arts, by Cynthia Pearl Maus, 1938, 1959, Harper & Brothers Publishers, New York)
May the peace of Christmas fill each of our hearts with joy.
--We enjoyed our visit with Larry and Dianne Randolph. The Randolphs arrived on Tuesday and left Wednesday for Mbabane to spend time with the Allens and Hoskins. We appreciate the ministry of Larry and Dianne and also their friendship. I have to tell you of the wonderful welcome Larry and Dianne received at the farm. After getting checked into the guesthouse they followed Wayne back to our house. Upon entering our driveway they witnessed a bird swooping down upon a snake. The snake retaliated by trying to get the bird. This happened twice. Upon closer inspection (Wayne with his camera) we identified the snake as a vine snake, white with gray/black markings. (It is one of the poisonous varieties we find here in Swaziland.) What a welcome!!
--I am sorry but I don’t have an update on the revival at Ntuthwakazi (December 6-11). Revival services do end tomorrow night. Please continue praying that many lost in the community will hear the Gospel message and respond.
--Tomorrow we will attend the wedding of Chris Msibi and S’phesihle Sithole at the Florence Christian Academy (near Hluti) in the Shiselweni region. We have known and worked with Chris for many years. He was pastor of the Nhlangano and Mgamudze Baptist Churches before attending the Ngwane Teacher College for his teaching certificate. He has been teaching primary students and is currently attending college classes to receive his Teacher’s Degree. Pray Chris and S’phesihle will understand God’s plan for marriage. Pray they will be witnesses to other Christian couples.
--Monday-Wednesday (December 13-15) is the Swazi Team’s end-of-the-year retreat!! In the past this time has enabled the Team to not only have great fellowship together but also praise the Lord for His blessings the past year and a time of planning and prayer for future work. We thank the Lord for this special time of celebration. Pray for safe travel to White River, South Africa. Pray this retreat will be a special and beneficial time for the Swazi Team. Pray in all things the Lord will be glorified.
--Friday December 17th, Wayne will have his root canal work completed that was started last month after a week of pain and discomfort. Pray everything will go well!!
AIDS UPDATE: Sunday we were invited to attend the Mafacula Baptist Church’s children’s Christmas party. The children were in charge of the worship and food was provided following the service. After we had eaten we were asked to go to a home and pray for a young lady of the church who was very sick. We were told she had TB or possibly pneumonia. When we hear this we always think of HIV/AIDS since TB is one of the main symptoms of the disease. When we arrived we found this young lady had been my interpreter for Luwhhawhhaweni when I was leading a weekly children’s Bible study. She had lost weight and was clearly struggling to breath. The group prayed for her. The mother reported her daughter had started coughing up blood and they were returning to Siteki on Monday to get he reports from previous x-rays and to see the doctor. Pray for this one to receive medical help that is needed. If she is HIV/AIDS pray she will be able to soon begin taking the ARVs that will prolong her life. Pray she will also know what the Lord expects of her as His child and may she be comforted to know He is walking beside her.
Who said, “I will venture to go down, but remember that you must hold the ropes”? William Carey, an 18th century Baptist cobbler in England who became known as the “father of modern missions” for his 1792 journey to India to preach the gospel.
LOTTIE MOON CHRISTMAS OFFERING:Goal: 175 million
A testimony from a Swazi: “I accepted the Lord in October 1994. Before I was a Christian I didn’t know I was a sinner. I thought I was perfect. I didn’t fight with others or drink. I saw other people going to church but I didn’t know why they were going. The Baptist missionaries who came to Swaziland helped me change. Through their teaching I came to know I needed Jesus in my life. I learned I was a sinner and I needed Jesus to change me. I asked Him for forgiveness of my sins. Before the Baptists, I never had a person talk to me about Jesus or ask me if I was a Christian.”Because of your giving to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering, we are able to share the Gospels with many Swazis such as this one. Many have come to know Jesus as their Savior. Thank you for your sacrificial giving. Please give to the 2010 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering so many lost people (such as the Swazis of Swaziland) will have a chance to hear the salvation story and believe.
And wild and sweet the words repeat of peace on earth, good-will to men.
And thought of how, as the day had come, the belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song of peace on earth, good-will to men.
Till, ringing, singing on its way, the world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime, of peace on earth good-will to men.
(Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1807-1892)
The hymn “I Heard the Bells” was written at Christmas time in 1863. The time at which the hymn was penned found the United States in the midst of bloody turmoil. The Civil War was at its climax. This beloved American poet (Wadsworth) must have been much concerned for in every stanza there is an emphasis on “peace on earth, good-will to men.”
(Christ and the Fine Arts, by Cynthia Pearl Maus, 1938, 1959, Harper & Brothers Publishers, New York)
May the peace of Christmas fill each of our hearts with joy.
--We enjoyed our visit with Larry and Dianne Randolph. The Randolphs arrived on Tuesday and left Wednesday for Mbabane to spend time with the Allens and Hoskins. We appreciate the ministry of Larry and Dianne and also their friendship. I have to tell you of the wonderful welcome Larry and Dianne received at the farm. After getting checked into the guesthouse they followed Wayne back to our house. Upon entering our driveway they witnessed a bird swooping down upon a snake. The snake retaliated by trying to get the bird. This happened twice. Upon closer inspection (Wayne with his camera) we identified the snake as a vine snake, white with gray/black markings. (It is one of the poisonous varieties we find here in Swaziland.) What a welcome!!
--I am sorry but I don’t have an update on the revival at Ntuthwakazi (December 6-11). Revival services do end tomorrow night. Please continue praying that many lost in the community will hear the Gospel message and respond.
--Tomorrow we will attend the wedding of Chris Msibi and S’phesihle Sithole at the Florence Christian Academy (near Hluti) in the Shiselweni region. We have known and worked with Chris for many years. He was pastor of the Nhlangano and Mgamudze Baptist Churches before attending the Ngwane Teacher College for his teaching certificate. He has been teaching primary students and is currently attending college classes to receive his Teacher’s Degree. Pray Chris and S’phesihle will understand God’s plan for marriage. Pray they will be witnesses to other Christian couples.
--Monday-Wednesday (December 13-15) is the Swazi Team’s end-of-the-year retreat!! In the past this time has enabled the Team to not only have great fellowship together but also praise the Lord for His blessings the past year and a time of planning and prayer for future work. We thank the Lord for this special time of celebration. Pray for safe travel to White River, South Africa. Pray this retreat will be a special and beneficial time for the Swazi Team. Pray in all things the Lord will be glorified.
--Friday December 17th, Wayne will have his root canal work completed that was started last month after a week of pain and discomfort. Pray everything will go well!!
AIDS UPDATE: Sunday we were invited to attend the Mafacula Baptist Church’s children’s Christmas party. The children were in charge of the worship and food was provided following the service. After we had eaten we were asked to go to a home and pray for a young lady of the church who was very sick. We were told she had TB or possibly pneumonia. When we hear this we always think of HIV/AIDS since TB is one of the main symptoms of the disease. When we arrived we found this young lady had been my interpreter for Luwhhawhhaweni when I was leading a weekly children’s Bible study. She had lost weight and was clearly struggling to breath. The group prayed for her. The mother reported her daughter had started coughing up blood and they were returning to Siteki on Monday to get he reports from previous x-rays and to see the doctor. Pray for this one to receive medical help that is needed. If she is HIV/AIDS pray she will be able to soon begin taking the ARVs that will prolong her life. Pray she will also know what the Lord expects of her as His child and may she be comforted to know He is walking beside her.
Who said, “I will venture to go down, but remember that you must hold the ropes”? William Carey, an 18th century Baptist cobbler in England who became known as the “father of modern missions” for his 1792 journey to India to preach the gospel.
LOTTIE MOON CHRISTMAS OFFERING:Goal: 175 million
A testimony from a Swazi: “I accepted the Lord in October 1994. Before I was a Christian I didn’t know I was a sinner. I thought I was perfect. I didn’t fight with others or drink. I saw other people going to church but I didn’t know why they were going. The Baptist missionaries who came to Swaziland helped me change. Through their teaching I came to know I needed Jesus in my life. I learned I was a sinner and I needed Jesus to change me. I asked Him for forgiveness of my sins. Before the Baptists, I never had a person talk to me about Jesus or ask me if I was a Christian.”Because of your giving to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering, we are able to share the Gospels with many Swazis such as this one. Many have come to know Jesus as their Savior. Thank you for your sacrificial giving. Please give to the 2010 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering so many lost people (such as the Swazis of Swaziland) will have a chance to hear the salvation story and believe.
Myers Weekly Prayer Letter
We asked you to pray for the rains to be good in Swaziland this growing season and now I want to thank you for faithfulness to pray. We have had great rain this year. In fact, some of the rains have been so strong and heavy, we have had numerous leaks in our house and last night a stream of water from the rain was heading toward our back door. But we are so thankful for the wonderful rain. Please continue to pray the rains will not stop just when the crops/gardens need it the most as usually is the case. Pray the rains will continue until April or May and there will be enough water to fill the streams and rivers and food for all the Swazis.
--Thursday night the pastors (and families) of the Vuvulane, Mafucula and Luwhhawhhaweni Baptist Churches came to our house for food, fun and fellowship. Wayne also wanted to encourage the pastors to teach their church members especially the children the true meaning of Christmas. Many of our churches do not teach or preach Christ’s birth during this special time of year. The Swazis’ song books have Christmas songs that are never sung. When asked, “Why don’t you sing the Christmas songs?” Their response is “Oh, I don’t know, I guess we just don’t think about it.” Pray this Christmas season the Swazis will truly understand the importance Christmas has on all our lives. May the joy of Christmas touch the hearts of the Swazi people.
--Friday Todd and Deborah Hoskins came to Tshaneni for an overnight visit as well as a time of orientation. We also invited an American friend who lives here and works with the AIDS orphan ministry. Corine was able to offer helpful insights to the Hoskins on the ways of the Swazi people. We enjoyed a wonderful meal and even had time to play “chicken foot” (a very fun game with dominoes). Corine leaves on the 8th of December for California to spend time with family and friends during the Christmas season. She will return to Tshaneni the first of February. Pray for a very safe journey and wonderful time in the states. Pray Todd and Deborah were able to receive helpful insights during their time in Tshaneni.Todd and Deborah began their one month culture/language study on the 30th of November. Pray for a clear understanding concerning the culture and traditions that shape the lives of the Swazi people. Pray Todd and Deborah will be able to learn a little bit of siSwati.
THIS WEEK:--The Ntuthwakazi Baptist Church will conduct revival services December 6-11. Pastor Nkosingiphile Dlamini and Wayne will be preaching. Pray the members of the church will experience true revival. Pray many lost in the community will hear the gospel message and respond.
--Larry and Dianne Randolph, member care missionaries will visit the Swazi Team, December 7-9. Pray for Larry and Diane as they touch base with the Myers, Allens and Hoskins.
--December 11 (Saturday), Chris Msibi and S’phesihle Sithole are getting married. Chris is the former pastor of the Mgamudze and Nhlangano Baptist Churches. He is also the son of Annah Thwala who we have known since arriving in Swaziland and was our first convert. Annah also helps me with children’s ministries. Pray Chris and S’phesihle will understand God’s plan for marriage. Pray they will be witnesses to other Christian couples.
--December 13-15 is the Swazi Team’s end-of-the-year retreat. Pray as each Swazi Team member prepares for this special reflecting and planning time. Pray in all things the Lord will be glorified. AIDS UPDATE:The existence of HIV is high among Swazi pregnant widows, a study by the government and other stakeholders has revealed!! Statistics show that 85.7 per cent of pregnant widows are likely to be HIV positive. Pregnant women staying with live-in lovers were found with 58.5 per cent HIV prevalence. Married pregnant women were found to have an HIV prevalence of 40.9 per cent while that of divorced women or separated pregnant women is 40 per cent. Pregnant women who have never married have the least HIV prevalence, 38 per cent. Pray the Swazi people will understand their lifestyles are causing premature deaths and by living as our Savior shows they don’t have to die.
***What was the Southern Baptist Convention’s first foreign mission field and who was the first foreign missionary? China; S. C. Clopton, appointed to that country in 1845
August 28, 1993 Wayne and I arrived in Swaziland to begin a journey of ministry with the Swazi people. Over the years our lives have been enriched not only by the fruits of labors but by the faithful prayer support and affirmation of our friends, churches, volunteers, and family members. Thank you!! Please support the giving of the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. Because of your financially support through this offering and the Cooperative Program, we can spend time reaching lost people instead of raising support.
Helping. It’s a simple and noble assignment—and it reaps rich rewards! We benefit when we learn to serve as Christ Himself did. –Elizabeth George
-Please continue to pray for the IMB’s Presidential Search Committee as they seek God’s man to lead our organization. This week’s country focus: USA-In the last century the United States has sent out more missionaries than any other country, impacting every nation on earth. 35% of all foreign missionaries are American. Pray that these missionaries would be able to work in partnership with local churches.
-The attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11,2001 will continue to impact America—its identity as a land of ‘freedom’, its understanding of different faiths and its involvement in global politics. Pray for wise handling of issues of concern to Islam and to Muslims.
-Christianity is not impacting the nation as it should. Pray that Christians may repent of carnality, be revived and help to change rather than mimic culture.(Information from the Ultimate Goal a project of SASCOL and is the outreach initiative taking place during the World Cup in South Africa June and July 2010). This concludes the week’s country focus that began in April for the 32 teams participating in the World Cup in South Africa.
--Thursday night the pastors (and families) of the Vuvulane, Mafucula and Luwhhawhhaweni Baptist Churches came to our house for food, fun and fellowship. Wayne also wanted to encourage the pastors to teach their church members especially the children the true meaning of Christmas. Many of our churches do not teach or preach Christ’s birth during this special time of year. The Swazis’ song books have Christmas songs that are never sung. When asked, “Why don’t you sing the Christmas songs?” Their response is “Oh, I don’t know, I guess we just don’t think about it.” Pray this Christmas season the Swazis will truly understand the importance Christmas has on all our lives. May the joy of Christmas touch the hearts of the Swazi people.
--Friday Todd and Deborah Hoskins came to Tshaneni for an overnight visit as well as a time of orientation. We also invited an American friend who lives here and works with the AIDS orphan ministry. Corine was able to offer helpful insights to the Hoskins on the ways of the Swazi people. We enjoyed a wonderful meal and even had time to play “chicken foot” (a very fun game with dominoes). Corine leaves on the 8th of December for California to spend time with family and friends during the Christmas season. She will return to Tshaneni the first of February. Pray for a very safe journey and wonderful time in the states. Pray Todd and Deborah were able to receive helpful insights during their time in Tshaneni.Todd and Deborah began their one month culture/language study on the 30th of November. Pray for a clear understanding concerning the culture and traditions that shape the lives of the Swazi people. Pray Todd and Deborah will be able to learn a little bit of siSwati.
THIS WEEK:--The Ntuthwakazi Baptist Church will conduct revival services December 6-11. Pastor Nkosingiphile Dlamini and Wayne will be preaching. Pray the members of the church will experience true revival. Pray many lost in the community will hear the gospel message and respond.
--Larry and Dianne Randolph, member care missionaries will visit the Swazi Team, December 7-9. Pray for Larry and Diane as they touch base with the Myers, Allens and Hoskins.
--December 11 (Saturday), Chris Msibi and S’phesihle Sithole are getting married. Chris is the former pastor of the Mgamudze and Nhlangano Baptist Churches. He is also the son of Annah Thwala who we have known since arriving in Swaziland and was our first convert. Annah also helps me with children’s ministries. Pray Chris and S’phesihle will understand God’s plan for marriage. Pray they will be witnesses to other Christian couples.
--December 13-15 is the Swazi Team’s end-of-the-year retreat. Pray as each Swazi Team member prepares for this special reflecting and planning time. Pray in all things the Lord will be glorified. AIDS UPDATE:The existence of HIV is high among Swazi pregnant widows, a study by the government and other stakeholders has revealed!! Statistics show that 85.7 per cent of pregnant widows are likely to be HIV positive. Pregnant women staying with live-in lovers were found with 58.5 per cent HIV prevalence. Married pregnant women were found to have an HIV prevalence of 40.9 per cent while that of divorced women or separated pregnant women is 40 per cent. Pregnant women who have never married have the least HIV prevalence, 38 per cent. Pray the Swazi people will understand their lifestyles are causing premature deaths and by living as our Savior shows they don’t have to die.
***What was the Southern Baptist Convention’s first foreign mission field and who was the first foreign missionary? China; S. C. Clopton, appointed to that country in 1845
August 28, 1993 Wayne and I arrived in Swaziland to begin a journey of ministry with the Swazi people. Over the years our lives have been enriched not only by the fruits of labors but by the faithful prayer support and affirmation of our friends, churches, volunteers, and family members. Thank you!! Please support the giving of the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. Because of your financially support through this offering and the Cooperative Program, we can spend time reaching lost people instead of raising support.
Helping. It’s a simple and noble assignment—and it reaps rich rewards! We benefit when we learn to serve as Christ Himself did. –Elizabeth George
-Please continue to pray for the IMB’s Presidential Search Committee as they seek God’s man to lead our organization. This week’s country focus: USA-In the last century the United States has sent out more missionaries than any other country, impacting every nation on earth. 35% of all foreign missionaries are American. Pray that these missionaries would be able to work in partnership with local churches.
-The attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11,2001 will continue to impact America—its identity as a land of ‘freedom’, its understanding of different faiths and its involvement in global politics. Pray for wise handling of issues of concern to Islam and to Muslims.
-Christianity is not impacting the nation as it should. Pray that Christians may repent of carnality, be revived and help to change rather than mimic culture.(Information from the Ultimate Goal a project of SASCOL and is the outreach initiative taking place during the World Cup in South Africa June and July 2010). This concludes the week’s country focus that began in April for the 32 teams participating in the World Cup in South Africa.
Monday, November 29, 2010
December Prayer Calendar
DECEMBER 2010 PRAYER CALENDAR
The Swazi Team
Wednesday December 1: WORLD AIDS DAY!! Today Lacie Allen graduates from Grade 0/kindergarten. Pray for Lacie as she finishes up one school and starts a new one in January.
Thursday December 2: Yesterday was World AIDS Day. The pandemic in Africa continues to take many lives. How can you help? Pray for a cure for HIV/AIDS that would be readily available worldwide. Pack a Home Health Care Kit-this is a hospice care kit packed in a 5-gallon bucket that gives hope and dignity to someone who is terminally ill.. and most importantly gives them the opportunity to see and hear God’s love for them. www.inhomecarekit.org
Friday December 3: WEEK OF PRAYER FOR INTERNATION MISSIONS AND LOTTIE MOON CHRISTMAS OFFERING November 28-December 5: $3,315 was the amount in 1887 for the first Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. Your church involvement in this offering provides for your IMB missionaries’ day-to-day needs. Because you give sacrificially, your missionaries can spend their time reaching lost people. The offering comprises 53 percent of the IMB’s total income and every penny goes to missionaries and their ministries. In 2006 cost of supporting a missionary: $.08 a minute, $4.66 an hour, $111.96 a day, $785.90 a week, $3,405.55 a month, $40,866.61 a year. Pray the 2010 LMCO goal will be reached so missionaries can continue to be sent to reach the world’s people missing from God’s family.
Saturday December 4: Praise the Lord that Steven Allen was able to have his appendix removed in South Africa last month. He is getting “his feet back beneath him again.” Continue to pray for his complete healing.
Sunday December 5: Pray for godly, strong and faithful leaders to take a stand for Christ and press on against deep rooted cultural beliefs as well as expectations from the family. Pray for a strong leader for every Swazi Baptist church.
Monday December 6: December 6-11 the Ntuthwakazi Baptist Church (Shiselweni region) is conducting revival services. Pray the members of the church will experience true revival. Pray many lost in the community will hear the gospel message and respond.
Tuesday December 7: Larry and Dianne Randolph, member care missionaries will visit the Swazi Team December 7-9. Pray for Larry and Dianne as they touch base with the Myers, Allens and Hoskins. Pray for good fellowship and good visits.
Wednesday December 8: Todd and Deborah Hoskins began two month culture and language study on the 30th of November. Pray for a clear understanding concerning the culture and traditions that shape the lives of the Swazi people. Pray Todd and Deborah will also be able to learn a bit of the siSwati language.
Thursday December 9: The Allens report many Swazis are waiting baptism and ask for prayer for the right weather and opportunities for different churches to have their new believers follow Christ in believer’s baptism. One special person also waiting to be baptized is their daughter, Lacie. Lacie wanted to return to Swaziland to be baptized. Pray Lacie understands the importance of baptism in her life.
Friday December 10: The Swazi Team has been blessed with good volunteer teams that have worked with within strategy to help reach Swaziland for Christ as well as teach and disciple believers. Both the Allens and Myes have volunteer teams scheduled to work and minister in 2011 in Swaziland. Pray as teams plan to come to Swaziland prayerful preparation will be part of the planning. Pray for the anticipation of wonderful blessings.
Saturday December 11: Chris Msibi and S’phesihle Sithole are getting married today. Chris is currently teaching primary students as well as attending classes to receive his degree (currently has a certificate to teach). He is the former pastor of the Mgamudze and Nhlangano Baptist Churches and the son of Annah Thwala a leader in Swazi Baptist work. Pray Chris and S’phesihle will understand God’s plan for marriage. Pray they will be witnesses to other Christian couples.
Sunday December 12: Pray for the controversy and conflicts that are happening at the Victory Baptist Church due to leadership by one person. It is causing members of the congregation to leave the church. Pray for the Allens as they seek the Lord’s direction with this sticky situation.
Monday December 13: The 2010 Swazi Team end-of-the-year retreat begins today (December 13-15) in White River, South Africa. In the past this time has enabled the Team to not only have great fellowship together but also praise the Lord for His blessings the past year and a time of planning and prayer for future work. We thank the Lord for this special time of celebration. Pray this retreat will continue to be a special and beneficial time for the Swazi Team. Pray in all things the Lord will be glorified.
Tuesday December 14: Continue to pray for good rains this growing season. Pray this will be a good year of harvest for the Swazi people.
Wednesday December 15: As Swazi Christians celebrate Christmas this month, pray they will look around and see their Muslim neighbors who are not celebrating the Lord’s birth. Pray Swazi believers’ hearts will be burdened for these and will find ways to share the salvation story with them.
Thursday December 16: Pray for the Allen family as they desire to do a prayer drive in the Hhohho region to see where God is leading them to start a new outreach group. They have a couple of leads and ideas on areas but want to go where the Lord leads.
Friday December 17: Please continue to pray for the IMB’s Presidential Search Committee as the seek God’s man to lead our organization.
Saturday December 18: “Pastor, here are my tithes which I have been owing my Jesus Christ (Aug.-Nov.). Please pray for me for doing that, the situation was too bad. From now I swear I won’t owe him.” These words come from a member of the Vuvulane Baptist Church who realized she was sinning against her Lord by not giving him a tenth of her earings. Pray the Swazi Baptist churches will teach their members the importance of tithing to the Lord. Pray for great spiritual fruits from these teachings.
Sunday December 19: A young pastor finds himself in a position that is not good. He is single and was sent by his family to stay with his sister-in-law whose husband died. In Swazi culture it is acceptable and in some instances required for a brother of a deceased husband to wed the widow. This is not the case with this couple and the young man understands he must have a good testimony inside and outside the church. He wants to do right but is in no position financially to move to another place. Pray this young pastor will find the means to make the move. Pray he will be able to lead the church as Christ would lead.
Monday December 20: Pray for Wayne Myers today on his birthday!!The Swazi Team is celebrating Wayne’s birthday today in Tshaneni. Pray for a great time of fun and fellowship. Pray Wayne’s special day will indeed be special!!
Tuesday December 21: Pray for Wayne and Barbara Myers today on this anniversary!!
The Mkhaliphi family of the Ntuthwakazi Baptist Church has been faithful leaders allowing the church to meet on their homestead and providing weekly worship services. As with most Swazis the Mkhaliphis did not understand God’s plan for marriage and were married in the Swazi traditional way. Now the Mkhaliphis desire to be married in the Christian way (after being together for many years with several children) and will do so on the 30th of April. Pray for this family as they make this big important Christian commitment. We praise the Lord for this family and their desire to be the leaders God would have them be.
Wednesday December 22: This Christmas season, pray the King of Swaziland, his wives and children will hear the true Christmas story and will realize trusting in Jesus is the most precious gift of all.
Thursday December 23: ARV (anti-retro viral) drugs basically prolongs the life of one with the AIDS virus. There is no cure for AIDS but with the help of these drugs patients will live longer and healthier lives. But they must take the ARVs on a regular basis. One Swazi feels the Lord has healed him and he no longer needs to take the ARVs. We pray that is so but the condition of his body tells us a different story. He has also convinced another friend with the AIDS virus that the Lord will heal him and he too has quit taking the drugs. Pray the Lord will truly speak to these two concerning their future treatment of the AIDS virus. May he continue to lead and guide His children that walk the troublesome path of AIDS.
Friday December 24: There is little evidence of decorations or brightly decorated trees to indicate it is Christmas in Swaziland. Most Swazis know nothing of this American tradition just as many do not know the significance of this special day in the life of every Christian. This Christmas season pray many Swazis will truly understand who Jesus is and follow Him completely putting aside traditions that conflict with the Christian way of life. May the joy of Christmas touch the hearts of the Swazis of Swaziland.
Saturday Christmas 25: MERRY CHRISTMAS!! The Swazi Team wishes each of a most Merry Christmas. Thank you for your faithful support in prayer of the work with the Swazi people. Pray as the Swazi Team meet together in Mbabane to celebrate this very special day.
Sunday December 26: Last month the Thunzini Baptist Church conducted a licensing service for their pastor, Nkosingiphile Dlamini. Pastor Dlamini has led this church for many years and is a strong leader and committed Christian. Plans for a ordination service for Pastors Dlamni and Nsibandze (Velebantfu Baptist Church) have begun. Pray planning will go well in making this special service and event possible in 2011.
Monday December 27: SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN UNENGAGED PEOPLES: In northeast Mozambique there are people groups who have had so little opportunity to hear of Jesus. The Yao, Mwani, Koti and Makhuwa-Nahara are included in those who have had little opportunity to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ. The cry comes out for more laborers to come and help reach these people for Christ. Please pray God will bring more laborers to these people.
Tuesday December 28: 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 for medical attention. Please 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.
Wednesday December 29: October 22-24 the third children’s camp was conducted at the Maphungwane Baptist Church. Approximately 65 children attended this camp and enjoyed a time of Bible study and activities, worship, praying and organized games. Pray the members of the Mphungwane Baptist Church will support a strong discipleship program for their children.
Thursday December 30: February 26-March 4, a volunteer team from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina will minister to Swazis in the Shiselweni region. We are thankful for this group of volunteers giving of their time and money to help evangelize and disciple Swazis. Pray for this team as planning continues for their trip to Swaziland. Pray for the Myers as they prepare for the team’s arrival and ministry.
Friday December 31: Pray members of the Swazi Team will seek the Lord’s guidance as they look forward to 2011 with joy, love and desire to make their lives count for Christ.
The Swazi Team
Wednesday December 1: WORLD AIDS DAY!! Today Lacie Allen graduates from Grade 0/kindergarten. Pray for Lacie as she finishes up one school and starts a new one in January.
Thursday December 2: Yesterday was World AIDS Day. The pandemic in Africa continues to take many lives. How can you help? Pray for a cure for HIV/AIDS that would be readily available worldwide. Pack a Home Health Care Kit-this is a hospice care kit packed in a 5-gallon bucket that gives hope and dignity to someone who is terminally ill.. and most importantly gives them the opportunity to see and hear God’s love for them. www.inhomecarekit.org
Friday December 3: WEEK OF PRAYER FOR INTERNATION MISSIONS AND LOTTIE MOON CHRISTMAS OFFERING November 28-December 5: $3,315 was the amount in 1887 for the first Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. Your church involvement in this offering provides for your IMB missionaries’ day-to-day needs. Because you give sacrificially, your missionaries can spend their time reaching lost people. The offering comprises 53 percent of the IMB’s total income and every penny goes to missionaries and their ministries. In 2006 cost of supporting a missionary: $.08 a minute, $4.66 an hour, $111.96 a day, $785.90 a week, $3,405.55 a month, $40,866.61 a year. Pray the 2010 LMCO goal will be reached so missionaries can continue to be sent to reach the world’s people missing from God’s family.
Saturday December 4: Praise the Lord that Steven Allen was able to have his appendix removed in South Africa last month. He is getting “his feet back beneath him again.” Continue to pray for his complete healing.
Sunday December 5: Pray for godly, strong and faithful leaders to take a stand for Christ and press on against deep rooted cultural beliefs as well as expectations from the family. Pray for a strong leader for every Swazi Baptist church.
Monday December 6: December 6-11 the Ntuthwakazi Baptist Church (Shiselweni region) is conducting revival services. Pray the members of the church will experience true revival. Pray many lost in the community will hear the gospel message and respond.
Tuesday December 7: Larry and Dianne Randolph, member care missionaries will visit the Swazi Team December 7-9. Pray for Larry and Dianne as they touch base with the Myers, Allens and Hoskins. Pray for good fellowship and good visits.
Wednesday December 8: Todd and Deborah Hoskins began two month culture and language study on the 30th of November. Pray for a clear understanding concerning the culture and traditions that shape the lives of the Swazi people. Pray Todd and Deborah will also be able to learn a bit of the siSwati language.
Thursday December 9: The Allens report many Swazis are waiting baptism and ask for prayer for the right weather and opportunities for different churches to have their new believers follow Christ in believer’s baptism. One special person also waiting to be baptized is their daughter, Lacie. Lacie wanted to return to Swaziland to be baptized. Pray Lacie understands the importance of baptism in her life.
Friday December 10: The Swazi Team has been blessed with good volunteer teams that have worked with within strategy to help reach Swaziland for Christ as well as teach and disciple believers. Both the Allens and Myes have volunteer teams scheduled to work and minister in 2011 in Swaziland. Pray as teams plan to come to Swaziland prayerful preparation will be part of the planning. Pray for the anticipation of wonderful blessings.
Saturday December 11: Chris Msibi and S’phesihle Sithole are getting married today. Chris is currently teaching primary students as well as attending classes to receive his degree (currently has a certificate to teach). He is the former pastor of the Mgamudze and Nhlangano Baptist Churches and the son of Annah Thwala a leader in Swazi Baptist work. Pray Chris and S’phesihle will understand God’s plan for marriage. Pray they will be witnesses to other Christian couples.
Sunday December 12: Pray for the controversy and conflicts that are happening at the Victory Baptist Church due to leadership by one person. It is causing members of the congregation to leave the church. Pray for the Allens as they seek the Lord’s direction with this sticky situation.
Monday December 13: The 2010 Swazi Team end-of-the-year retreat begins today (December 13-15) in White River, South Africa. In the past this time has enabled the Team to not only have great fellowship together but also praise the Lord for His blessings the past year and a time of planning and prayer for future work. We thank the Lord for this special time of celebration. Pray this retreat will continue to be a special and beneficial time for the Swazi Team. Pray in all things the Lord will be glorified.
Tuesday December 14: Continue to pray for good rains this growing season. Pray this will be a good year of harvest for the Swazi people.
Wednesday December 15: As Swazi Christians celebrate Christmas this month, pray they will look around and see their Muslim neighbors who are not celebrating the Lord’s birth. Pray Swazi believers’ hearts will be burdened for these and will find ways to share the salvation story with them.
Thursday December 16: Pray for the Allen family as they desire to do a prayer drive in the Hhohho region to see where God is leading them to start a new outreach group. They have a couple of leads and ideas on areas but want to go where the Lord leads.
Friday December 17: Please continue to pray for the IMB’s Presidential Search Committee as the seek God’s man to lead our organization.
Saturday December 18: “Pastor, here are my tithes which I have been owing my Jesus Christ (Aug.-Nov.). Please pray for me for doing that, the situation was too bad. From now I swear I won’t owe him.” These words come from a member of the Vuvulane Baptist Church who realized she was sinning against her Lord by not giving him a tenth of her earings. Pray the Swazi Baptist churches will teach their members the importance of tithing to the Lord. Pray for great spiritual fruits from these teachings.
Sunday December 19: A young pastor finds himself in a position that is not good. He is single and was sent by his family to stay with his sister-in-law whose husband died. In Swazi culture it is acceptable and in some instances required for a brother of a deceased husband to wed the widow. This is not the case with this couple and the young man understands he must have a good testimony inside and outside the church. He wants to do right but is in no position financially to move to another place. Pray this young pastor will find the means to make the move. Pray he will be able to lead the church as Christ would lead.
Monday December 20: Pray for Wayne Myers today on his birthday!!The Swazi Team is celebrating Wayne’s birthday today in Tshaneni. Pray for a great time of fun and fellowship. Pray Wayne’s special day will indeed be special!!
Tuesday December 21: Pray for Wayne and Barbara Myers today on this anniversary!!
The Mkhaliphi family of the Ntuthwakazi Baptist Church has been faithful leaders allowing the church to meet on their homestead and providing weekly worship services. As with most Swazis the Mkhaliphis did not understand God’s plan for marriage and were married in the Swazi traditional way. Now the Mkhaliphis desire to be married in the Christian way (after being together for many years with several children) and will do so on the 30th of April. Pray for this family as they make this big important Christian commitment. We praise the Lord for this family and their desire to be the leaders God would have them be.
Wednesday December 22: This Christmas season, pray the King of Swaziland, his wives and children will hear the true Christmas story and will realize trusting in Jesus is the most precious gift of all.
Thursday December 23: ARV (anti-retro viral) drugs basically prolongs the life of one with the AIDS virus. There is no cure for AIDS but with the help of these drugs patients will live longer and healthier lives. But they must take the ARVs on a regular basis. One Swazi feels the Lord has healed him and he no longer needs to take the ARVs. We pray that is so but the condition of his body tells us a different story. He has also convinced another friend with the AIDS virus that the Lord will heal him and he too has quit taking the drugs. Pray the Lord will truly speak to these two concerning their future treatment of the AIDS virus. May he continue to lead and guide His children that walk the troublesome path of AIDS.
Friday December 24: There is little evidence of decorations or brightly decorated trees to indicate it is Christmas in Swaziland. Most Swazis know nothing of this American tradition just as many do not know the significance of this special day in the life of every Christian. This Christmas season pray many Swazis will truly understand who Jesus is and follow Him completely putting aside traditions that conflict with the Christian way of life. May the joy of Christmas touch the hearts of the Swazis of Swaziland.
Saturday Christmas 25: MERRY CHRISTMAS!! The Swazi Team wishes each of a most Merry Christmas. Thank you for your faithful support in prayer of the work with the Swazi people. Pray as the Swazi Team meet together in Mbabane to celebrate this very special day.
Sunday December 26: Last month the Thunzini Baptist Church conducted a licensing service for their pastor, Nkosingiphile Dlamini. Pastor Dlamini has led this church for many years and is a strong leader and committed Christian. Plans for a ordination service for Pastors Dlamni and Nsibandze (Velebantfu Baptist Church) have begun. Pray planning will go well in making this special service and event possible in 2011.
Monday December 27: SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN UNENGAGED PEOPLES: In northeast Mozambique there are people groups who have had so little opportunity to hear of Jesus. The Yao, Mwani, Koti and Makhuwa-Nahara are included in those who have had little opportunity to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ. The cry comes out for more laborers to come and help reach these people for Christ. Please pray God will bring more laborers to these people.
Tuesday December 28: 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 for medical attention. Please 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.
Wednesday December 29: October 22-24 the third children’s camp was conducted at the Maphungwane Baptist Church. Approximately 65 children attended this camp and enjoyed a time of Bible study and activities, worship, praying and organized games. Pray the members of the Mphungwane Baptist Church will support a strong discipleship program for their children.
Thursday December 30: February 26-March 4, a volunteer team from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina will minister to Swazis in the Shiselweni region. We are thankful for this group of volunteers giving of their time and money to help evangelize and disciple Swazis. Pray for this team as planning continues for their trip to Swaziland. Pray for the Myers as they prepare for the team’s arrival and ministry.
Friday December 31: Pray members of the Swazi Team will seek the Lord’s guidance as they look forward to 2011 with joy, love and desire to make their lives count for Christ.
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