What a different week we had! At the college, there is an outreach week every semester. Each team, composed of students and team leaders, goes on a mission. Some go to different countries; some stay in Germany. The goal is to get experience in helping churches, evangelizing , and learning to be a group, working together. Bruce and I went with a team to Austria, to help at the CC Castle in Millstatt. The Castle is used for conferences, refreshment, and is a hub for Europeans. They only have a small staff of 6, and needed much help cleaning, repairing, and ministering to several guests currently there. Most of the week, we were there, coming alongside of them in any way we could. Also, in a nearby town, Spittal, we helped the church with their services, as well as cleaning, etc. It was a full week. We left the Bible College last Saturday, and headed for the Castle. It's in the Alps, and is overlooking a gorgeous lake. While we were cleaning windows, we'd often pinch ourselves, as we couldn't believe the views we were seeing. Just like the "Sound of Music." On Sunday, Bruce taught the church service in Spittal, and I led worship with some of the team. It was great singing some German songs. Good experience learning a new culture! Sunday evening, we led a worship night at the Castle for the staff, guests, and our team as well. They were so hungry for having worship in their language. There were missionaries there from Russia who miss English worship.
Then on Monday, we all went to work. I haven't worked that hard in manual labor for years!!! Running up and down several flights of stairs in the Castle, cleaning bathrooms, doing yard work, etc etc... We were tired Monday night!!
Tuesday, we went back to work at the Castle again. Then on Tuesday evening, we took a 45 minute drive down to a border town in Italy to eat pizza. You know how Americans yearn to taste of Italy!!! We walked around a bit, and then came back.
Wednesday, we worked again at the Castle, then went street witnessing in Spittal. We passed out tracts, and got to speak with different people. My German is "nicht" (not!) so I didn't talk much. We met some girls from Hungary, and they didn't speak German or English! As we were leaving town, a man riding a bicycle, was checking out the girls in our van. They smiled at him,then held up a sign that read Jesus loves you, in German. He smiled,then the girls handed him a tract out the window. He took the tract and rode off. Talk about being instant in season!!!We laughed at God's unique creative ways!
Wed night, Bruce gave the study at Church. He shared a beautiful song he wrote about Millstatt, and the people. He has such a gift for story songs!
Thursday, we went to the church to help out there. We were served an authentic Austrian lunch. These amazing dumplings filled with different ingredients. Thursday night, we did another Worship Night for the Castle. It was really good! God touched our hearts with His presence, and it was a great time of fellowship afterwards.
Friday, we packed up and left for Innsbruck. One of our team members, a couple, is praying about starting a Calvary in Innsbruch. We prayed for the city, and stayed in a hostel. It is a beautiful city, but very dark, and you can see it in people's faces. We'll continue to pray for God's will in that city.
The next morning, I woke up to a birthday surprise. I turned 60 on this special day, and I had already decided I wouldn't get sad that I'd be riding in a car all day back to Germany, with a non-eventful ride. But God had put it on Katha's heart(our team leader) to bring us to Schloss Newschwanstein. Thee fairy tale Castle of all times!!!
I so enjoyed this special day, in such a special place. Bruce brought me up to the castle in a horse drawn carriage. How special was that?! I felt like a princess~
We all needed this break, as we had worked so hard all week and were in need of some down time. God blessed our week with good weather, good health, good relationships, and good fruit. He is such an awesome God.
There are only 2 more weeks til the semester ends. Lots of things to do before school ends. Bruce and I will be serving at the Pastor/Leadership conference here after school lets out. This is the main conference in Europe for leaders. Please keep it in prayer.
We continue to be so grateful to you for all your prayers, and support.
May God keep pouring out His blessings and His spirit upon you!
Love in Him, Bruce and Teresa
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Easter in Prague
Happy belated Easter to everyone!!
We got back from Prague safely. What a time we had there. We went their to both get away together alone for a few days, and also to minister at the CC there for their Sunday service. We led the worship, and afterwards got to minister to the budding musicians there. Bruce took lots of pictures of the beautiful architecture there. Amazing details in their buildings. He posted them on facebook for those who want to see them. We passed out some tracts, drank some CZECK coffee, and walked along the river.
Then in the midst of it all, our car light went on for engine malfunction. The manual said not to drive on it. So fortunately (hmm) we just "happened " to be right near a Volkswagon dealership/service center, and we took it in. They did a whole workup on it. Boy were we praying. We had thoughts going thru our heads of engine breakdown, etc, and how we'd deal with it. All this to find out that the gas cap wasn't closed properly. When we first arrived in Czech republic, the gas station had an attendant there pumping all the gas. So he put the cap back on wrong. But hey, $75 to find that out was a relief after thinking about what it could've been. I guess perspective plays a huge part in how we look at life. And we were very thankful to have a normal car back!
Bruce and I are the cooks this weekend for the college. Every staff member takes a weekend, to give the regulars a break. We're going to make Fajitas, spaghetti, chicken soup, and cinnamon rolls. Not all in one meal of course!! We have 2 students to help us. We cook for around 50. Will be an adventure!
The afterglow this morning went well. We learned about the gift of prophecy, and then we all got to wait on the Lord, pray, etc.
It was a good meeting. We only have four more weeks of school. It's going so fast. Our outreach week is coming up on April 17th.
All the students go on teams to different places to do ministry. We'll be going with 13 to Austria to help a church in Millstatt. We'll
be staying at the CC castle. It's near the church there. Bruce will be teaching, I'll be leading worship, and our other members will help with sunday school, etc... If you think of it, keep us in prayer for good weather, safety, the car (!) and ministry opportunity!
Thank you for all the prayers! God is so faithful. We are confident of His purposes being fulfilled here, and realize that there's so much opportunity to spread the good news of His life, and hope here in this dark world.
Truely, the time is short. Our lives here are just for a moment before we are gone. Like King David said in the Psalms, "make me to know the measure of my days, O Lord."
For HIs glory,
B&T
We got back from Prague safely. What a time we had there. We went their to both get away together alone for a few days, and also to minister at the CC there for their Sunday service. We led the worship, and afterwards got to minister to the budding musicians there. Bruce took lots of pictures of the beautiful architecture there. Amazing details in their buildings. He posted them on facebook for those who want to see them. We passed out some tracts, drank some CZECK coffee, and walked along the river.
Then in the midst of it all, our car light went on for engine malfunction. The manual said not to drive on it. So fortunately (hmm) we just "happened " to be right near a Volkswagon dealership/service center, and we took it in. They did a whole workup on it. Boy were we praying. We had thoughts going thru our heads of engine breakdown, etc, and how we'd deal with it. All this to find out that the gas cap wasn't closed properly. When we first arrived in Czech republic, the gas station had an attendant there pumping all the gas. So he put the cap back on wrong. But hey, $75 to find that out was a relief after thinking about what it could've been. I guess perspective plays a huge part in how we look at life. And we were very thankful to have a normal car back!
Bruce and I are the cooks this weekend for the college. Every staff member takes a weekend, to give the regulars a break. We're going to make Fajitas, spaghetti, chicken soup, and cinnamon rolls. Not all in one meal of course!! We have 2 students to help us. We cook for around 50. Will be an adventure!
The afterglow this morning went well. We learned about the gift of prophecy, and then we all got to wait on the Lord, pray, etc.
It was a good meeting. We only have four more weeks of school. It's going so fast. Our outreach week is coming up on April 17th.
All the students go on teams to different places to do ministry. We'll be going with 13 to Austria to help a church in Millstatt. We'll
be staying at the CC castle. It's near the church there. Bruce will be teaching, I'll be leading worship, and our other members will help with sunday school, etc... If you think of it, keep us in prayer for good weather, safety, the car (!) and ministry opportunity!
Thank you for all the prayers! God is so faithful. We are confident of His purposes being fulfilled here, and realize that there's so much opportunity to spread the good news of His life, and hope here in this dark world.
Truely, the time is short. Our lives here are just for a moment before we are gone. Like King David said in the Psalms, "make me to know the measure of my days, O Lord."
For HIs glory,
B&T
Friday, March 26, 2010
PASSOVER
It's that time of year again, when we reflect on our Lord and Savior's death and resurrection. We are also going to lead the school in a "seder", a passover service.
This is the last supper that Jesus was having with his disciples. We will all go through the hagaddah,(the worship service book), then have a meal with mazto ball soup, chicken, veggies, and a kosher dessert! Then we finish the meal with a short final closing service. Last year, we had one at our home with some of Nate and Jonny's friends. This year, we will have 50 attending. We will be celebrating it on April 1st. Not the actual passover date, but this is the only time the college can do it, because of many time conflicts. We have lots of preparation this next week. I'm so glad that death has been passed over, and we can look forward to life forever!!!
Tomorrow, Bruce and I are driving to Frankfurt with some students to attend a music expo. There will be lots of different instruments, and equipment there from every dealer. This is the largest one in Europe. It will be quite an eye opener for the students!
Mid terms are now over! Everyone did well, although there was lots of nervousness going around! It's hard to believe that we're half way through the semester already!
Next weekend, we are going to help a church in Prague with their worship service. The school is off for 4 days for Easter, so we'll be able to enjoy Prague for a couple days as well. It's about 5 hours from here. It will be nice to take a little break from the tight schedule we are on.
We're continuing to learn German. It's getting easier, and we can now pronounce words when we read them. We're also learning more German songs. The worship services here use both English and German lyrics.
The afterglow sessions are continuing to be a blessing. Last week, we laid hands and prayed for those who feel called to go on the mission field, or be pastors, worship leaders, or other positions they feel called to take a step of faith. We discussed the gift of faith and healing. We also prayed for healing for several with needs.
God is meeting many needs here, and although there are many trials for the kids being in such intense and tight schedules and quarters, God is maturing, and filling them up with more of Himself.
Please continue to pray for their growth in the Lord. The German culture has a hard time embracing grace. They are so diligent in their works, and it tends to carry over into their relationship with God. God's unconditional love needs to be embraced in their heart as well as their heads.
Thankyou for your many prayers. God has been blessing our hearts. We are so blessed being in the center of His will, and are so grateful for being used to mentor and encourage those around us. I'm sure it's because of all the prayer!
Because He lives, we can face tomorrow... Because He lives, all fear is gone!!!!
Amen! Love and prayers,
Bruce and Teresa :)
This is the last supper that Jesus was having with his disciples. We will all go through the hagaddah,(the worship service book), then have a meal with mazto ball soup, chicken, veggies, and a kosher dessert! Then we finish the meal with a short final closing service. Last year, we had one at our home with some of Nate and Jonny's friends. This year, we will have 50 attending. We will be celebrating it on April 1st. Not the actual passover date, but this is the only time the college can do it, because of many time conflicts. We have lots of preparation this next week. I'm so glad that death has been passed over, and we can look forward to life forever!!!
Tomorrow, Bruce and I are driving to Frankfurt with some students to attend a music expo. There will be lots of different instruments, and equipment there from every dealer. This is the largest one in Europe. It will be quite an eye opener for the students!
Mid terms are now over! Everyone did well, although there was lots of nervousness going around! It's hard to believe that we're half way through the semester already!
Next weekend, we are going to help a church in Prague with their worship service. The school is off for 4 days for Easter, so we'll be able to enjoy Prague for a couple days as well. It's about 5 hours from here. It will be nice to take a little break from the tight schedule we are on.
We're continuing to learn German. It's getting easier, and we can now pronounce words when we read them. We're also learning more German songs. The worship services here use both English and German lyrics.
The afterglow sessions are continuing to be a blessing. Last week, we laid hands and prayed for those who feel called to go on the mission field, or be pastors, worship leaders, or other positions they feel called to take a step of faith. We discussed the gift of faith and healing. We also prayed for healing for several with needs.
God is meeting many needs here, and although there are many trials for the kids being in such intense and tight schedules and quarters, God is maturing, and filling them up with more of Himself.
Please continue to pray for their growth in the Lord. The German culture has a hard time embracing grace. They are so diligent in their works, and it tends to carry over into their relationship with God. God's unconditional love needs to be embraced in their heart as well as their heads.
Thankyou for your many prayers. God has been blessing our hearts. We are so blessed being in the center of His will, and are so grateful for being used to mentor and encourage those around us. I'm sure it's because of all the prayer!
Because He lives, we can face tomorrow... Because He lives, all fear is gone!!!!
Amen! Love and prayers,
Bruce and Teresa :)
Friday, March 5, 2010
"March|" On!!
"Guten Tag" Dear Ones~
The weeks here seem to be flying by. Everyday is packed with things to do, so time passes quickly. Life at the bible college is fast paced, with every minute filled with studying, ministry, worship, fellowship, and of course, eating!!! Some of us even throw some sleep in there!!! But we are revelling in the blessings of ministry here.
We have a praise report, for those who have been praying about our car. As many of you know, we shipped it here, filling it with our musical equipment, instruments, and a couple of boxes of "stuff" that we couldn't fit in our suitcases. Our car arrived, and sat for almost 3 weeks in customs, waiting to be cleared. They don'tlike people bringing in things, in case of selling for profit,etc. We all prayed hard,and last Wednesday, Bruce got the clearance to pick it up! The first all sunny day we had, and God blessed his travels back from Bremehaven, (3 1/2 hours north). Everything arrived in good condition, including the car. We are so grateful. It's like a good old friend came to be with us. I was so excited to get keyboard, I stayed up til midnight just playing it!
Last night, we had a wonderful prayer meeting in our apt, and we worshipped away, and interceeded for many people, places and things. WITH our keyboard!
God is really stirring up the students to worship Him more, and press on towards more of God in their lives. The special times we have in our afterglow meetings have been a sweet and learning experience. Fears, walls, and insecurities are beginning to fall to the wayside, as God's presence is pouring out.
We found out that the last pastor's conference here in the EU, had pastors on their face, crying out before God, pleading for worship leaders. There is such a dearth of worship leaders with a heart to serve here. So many church plants are sprouting up. We had heard that before, but now we see first hand, the real need. We pray that God sends and raises up more young people (and even old!)to step out in faith and "go."
A student in the devotions this morning, shared how his parents left everything in America and went to Ireland to serve the Lord. They have found, like so many, that God is faithful, dependable, and will provide when we step out in faith to do His will.
Well, this already is pretty long......So much to say. The Lord is doing a marvelous work here, and we are so grateful to be a part of it.
Once again, we are so grateful for you, your prayers, your support, and your love. We are one body, and linked together. You that partner with us, are reaping the same rewards and blessing. May God continue to glorify Himself, and pour out His presence on this school, and the staff and students.
In His hand,
Teresa
The weeks here seem to be flying by. Everyday is packed with things to do, so time passes quickly. Life at the bible college is fast paced, with every minute filled with studying, ministry, worship, fellowship, and of course, eating!!! Some of us even throw some sleep in there!!! But we are revelling in the blessings of ministry here.
We have a praise report, for those who have been praying about our car. As many of you know, we shipped it here, filling it with our musical equipment, instruments, and a couple of boxes of "stuff" that we couldn't fit in our suitcases. Our car arrived, and sat for almost 3 weeks in customs, waiting to be cleared. They don'tlike people bringing in things, in case of selling for profit,etc. We all prayed hard,and last Wednesday, Bruce got the clearance to pick it up! The first all sunny day we had, and God blessed his travels back from Bremehaven, (3 1/2 hours north). Everything arrived in good condition, including the car. We are so grateful. It's like a good old friend came to be with us. I was so excited to get keyboard, I stayed up til midnight just playing it!
Last night, we had a wonderful prayer meeting in our apt, and we worshipped away, and interceeded for many people, places and things. WITH our keyboard!
God is really stirring up the students to worship Him more, and press on towards more of God in their lives. The special times we have in our afterglow meetings have been a sweet and learning experience. Fears, walls, and insecurities are beginning to fall to the wayside, as God's presence is pouring out.
We found out that the last pastor's conference here in the EU, had pastors on their face, crying out before God, pleading for worship leaders. There is such a dearth of worship leaders with a heart to serve here. So many church plants are sprouting up. We had heard that before, but now we see first hand, the real need. We pray that God sends and raises up more young people (and even old!)to step out in faith and "go."
A student in the devotions this morning, shared how his parents left everything in America and went to Ireland to serve the Lord. They have found, like so many, that God is faithful, dependable, and will provide when we step out in faith to do His will.
Well, this already is pretty long......So much to say. The Lord is doing a marvelous work here, and we are so grateful to be a part of it.
Once again, we are so grateful for you, your prayers, your support, and your love. We are one body, and linked together. You that partner with us, are reaping the same rewards and blessing. May God continue to glorify Himself, and pour out His presence on this school, and the staff and students.
In His hand,
Teresa
Monday, February 15, 2010
Bibleschule!!!!
Dear Ones,
We had a good morning. "guten morgen."Bruce and I played worship with a couple students, and it was great!! Bruce led the devotional. (They start their day M,W, and F with devos for 1 1/2 hours. ) Afterwards, we had a meeting with anyone who wanted to be involved in worship. We had a good response. The kids are eager to learn and be used. 6 of them claim to be worship leaders already, and there are other singers, guitar players, keyboardist, and percussionists. We put them on a list with their gifts, and availability. So now we'll be putting together teams for them to play. There are 4 opportunities a week to play. There are 12 weeks left in the semester. One of those weeks is called outreach week. The students pick a place to go with a team to minister in different ways. Some are going to Greece, some Germany, some England or Israel. They have to pay for it as well. They will do things from evangelism to helps ministries in various outreaches and churches.
Tomorrow is Bruce's worship class. We put together a syllabus for the semester. It will be an overview of worship. Both the "heart and art" of worship. It's a 2 1/2 hour class. The first half will be about worship in the scriptures, including examples of men and women of God. It will address the heart of the worshipper, and his attitude and motives.
The second half will focus on the technique and skills of a worship leader, team member, and individual. It will cover everything from playing instruments to creating flow on a worship set, congregational connection, etc.
We'll also be mentoring students in their skill level with guitar, vocals and keyboards.This will be done on an individual as well as class level. We have our work cut out for us!!!
We're adjusting well to Germany. Jet lag is pretty much over, although sometimes around 4 pm we'll get a bit sleepy. We've been walking a lot, and breathing fresh, snowy air! Everything is covered in white. There's a river right across the way from us that's very full. Yesterday we hiked up a hill that overlooked the city. It was very pretty. I hear bird songs here I've never heard before. Still can't see them, but they sure are inspiring!
Tonight there is a class open for the church community, held at CCSiegen .It's David Guzik's weekly class in Hebrews. (he's in brazil right now, but will be back on Sunday).David is the head of the bibleschule(college) and is a tremendous teacher. Tomorrow night there's a class on German offered. Of course, we'll be taking it!. Have to learn this Deutch!
Thursday is Bruce's other class on Church History. It's a 2 1/2 hour class as well.
We're connecting well with the students. They are very welcoming, and are coming up and talking with us. They have a heart for God and for learning. Some are Americans, and others are from all over Europe ; one's from Ethiopia.
The church here is about 800 people. It's a very dynamic church, and is attracting lots of young German families. The Lord is really moving in this church. You can pray for their pastor, Nick Long. He has a slipped disk, and is probably going to need surgery unless God miraculously heals him. (which we pray He will)
We'll keep you updated with more details as we go. We're so grateful to be here, to be available for whatever God would have us do. We are so grateful for you as well. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to be here; for your prayers, support, and love.
Maranatha!!
Bruce and Teresa
We had a good morning. "guten morgen."Bruce and I played worship with a couple students, and it was great!! Bruce led the devotional. (They start their day M,W, and F with devos for 1 1/2 hours. ) Afterwards, we had a meeting with anyone who wanted to be involved in worship. We had a good response. The kids are eager to learn and be used. 6 of them claim to be worship leaders already, and there are other singers, guitar players, keyboardist, and percussionists. We put them on a list with their gifts, and availability. So now we'll be putting together teams for them to play. There are 4 opportunities a week to play. There are 12 weeks left in the semester. One of those weeks is called outreach week. The students pick a place to go with a team to minister in different ways. Some are going to Greece, some Germany, some England or Israel. They have to pay for it as well. They will do things from evangelism to helps ministries in various outreaches and churches.
Tomorrow is Bruce's worship class. We put together a syllabus for the semester. It will be an overview of worship. Both the "heart and art" of worship. It's a 2 1/2 hour class. The first half will be about worship in the scriptures, including examples of men and women of God. It will address the heart of the worshipper, and his attitude and motives.
The second half will focus on the technique and skills of a worship leader, team member, and individual. It will cover everything from playing instruments to creating flow on a worship set, congregational connection, etc.
We'll also be mentoring students in their skill level with guitar, vocals and keyboards.This will be done on an individual as well as class level. We have our work cut out for us!!!
We're adjusting well to Germany. Jet lag is pretty much over, although sometimes around 4 pm we'll get a bit sleepy. We've been walking a lot, and breathing fresh, snowy air! Everything is covered in white. There's a river right across the way from us that's very full. Yesterday we hiked up a hill that overlooked the city. It was very pretty. I hear bird songs here I've never heard before. Still can't see them, but they sure are inspiring!
Tonight there is a class open for the church community, held at CCSiegen .It's David Guzik's weekly class in Hebrews. (he's in brazil right now, but will be back on Sunday).David is the head of the bibleschule(college) and is a tremendous teacher. Tomorrow night there's a class on German offered. Of course, we'll be taking it!. Have to learn this Deutch!
Thursday is Bruce's other class on Church History. It's a 2 1/2 hour class as well.
We're connecting well with the students. They are very welcoming, and are coming up and talking with us. They have a heart for God and for learning. Some are Americans, and others are from all over Europe ; one's from Ethiopia.
The church here is about 800 people. It's a very dynamic church, and is attracting lots of young German families. The Lord is really moving in this church. You can pray for their pastor, Nick Long. He has a slipped disk, and is probably going to need surgery unless God miraculously heals him. (which we pray He will)
We'll keep you updated with more details as we go. We're so grateful to be here, to be available for whatever God would have us do. We are so grateful for you as well. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to be here; for your prayers, support, and love.
Maranatha!!
Bruce and Teresa
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Deutchland!!!!
We made it here in the Norte Country!!!! God was faithful during the whole 23+ hour trip! Going standby during major flight cancellations across the country was a challenge. Especially trying to sit together. But God intervened (thanks to all the prayers)and we got our flights, and even sat together! We had good flights. Not much turbulence or problems.
We arrived here on Wed @ 11 am. Another answered prayer: we were concerned about all the supplements and vitamins we brought over (enough for 6 months). Germany customs are very strict about vitamins, etc. But..... one of Bruce's suitcases was delayed for 1/2 hour. No one could find it. We prayed, and then it just appeared! By that time, everyone was gone, including the customs control . So we just walked through the area uninspected! PTL! We were met by Andrew, from the college . When we stepped outside, we felt the cold!!! We drove for a little over an hour. As we neared Siegen, it started to snow. Siegen is higher elevation than Frankfurt. We arrived at the college in a winter wonderland! We were shown our cute 1 bedroom apt, right across from the college!!! Originally, we were going to stay about a mile away in another apt. But the people are still living there for another month. So we are much closer. It's a cute newly upgraded place. All tile floors (which I'll have to get used to) and nice and bright and warm. Plus it will be so easy to get together with the students. We're right across from them!
Bruce taught Thursday morning his 2 1/2 hour church history class. Even though he was tired, God gave him the grace to do it!
We met with the staff and lots of students. We will be doing the worship class next week, and working with the students. We'll be developing those who are already leading worship here. There's lots of opportunity here for many things that need to be done.
Another couple here are Mike and Valerie Harrington. I met them in Israel, and they were over the bible college in Jerusalem. They had to leave because they had stayed there too long (7 years). They are working here with the administration paperwork, while Mike is teaching 2 classes. It's nice to be with them again!
The low here has been anywhere from 14-15 F. and the highs in the 20's. Next week is supposed to drop down to a low of 4F.!!! This is all new for me. I've never lived in a climate like this. But it's not bad outside if you dress warm! But inside is another story. We're used to in Seaside having doors and windows open all year. Love the fresh ocean air. But here you keep the windows shut so you don't freeze!! That means lots of dry heated air. We have pots of heated water going to put mist in the air!
Yesterday we went into Siegen to get a few things. They have a store here like home depot. It's even orange and white! We got a broom, shower mat, and little humidifiers that hang on the heaters( heated by hot water). By the way, this place is fully furnished, so we don't have to get much.
Our car will be arriving up north (3 hours) next week. Praying for good dry weather to get it.We don't have the right kind of tires here for snow/ice. I'll be happy to get our music equipment and other things.
We are praising the Lord for His goodness. He is faithful, and we trust Him for all that's in store. We never know what is around the corner, but we know Him, and He is good!! We miss you all, and are a little homesick, but know that God has put us here, and we live to do HIs will!
Until next time, "chooz" (bye) and may God fully bless you and keep you in His hand. A big THANK YOU for all those who have kept us in prayer. It surely has not been in vain!!
Love B&T
We arrived here on Wed @ 11 am. Another answered prayer: we were concerned about all the supplements and vitamins we brought over (enough for 6 months). Germany customs are very strict about vitamins, etc. But..... one of Bruce's suitcases was delayed for 1/2 hour. No one could find it. We prayed, and then it just appeared! By that time, everyone was gone, including the customs control . So we just walked through the area uninspected! PTL! We were met by Andrew, from the college . When we stepped outside, we felt the cold!!! We drove for a little over an hour. As we neared Siegen, it started to snow. Siegen is higher elevation than Frankfurt. We arrived at the college in a winter wonderland! We were shown our cute 1 bedroom apt, right across from the college!!! Originally, we were going to stay about a mile away in another apt. But the people are still living there for another month. So we are much closer. It's a cute newly upgraded place. All tile floors (which I'll have to get used to) and nice and bright and warm. Plus it will be so easy to get together with the students. We're right across from them!
Bruce taught Thursday morning his 2 1/2 hour church history class. Even though he was tired, God gave him the grace to do it!
We met with the staff and lots of students. We will be doing the worship class next week, and working with the students. We'll be developing those who are already leading worship here. There's lots of opportunity here for many things that need to be done.
Another couple here are Mike and Valerie Harrington. I met them in Israel, and they were over the bible college in Jerusalem. They had to leave because they had stayed there too long (7 years). They are working here with the administration paperwork, while Mike is teaching 2 classes. It's nice to be with them again!
The low here has been anywhere from 14-15 F. and the highs in the 20's. Next week is supposed to drop down to a low of 4F.!!! This is all new for me. I've never lived in a climate like this. But it's not bad outside if you dress warm! But inside is another story. We're used to in Seaside having doors and windows open all year. Love the fresh ocean air. But here you keep the windows shut so you don't freeze!! That means lots of dry heated air. We have pots of heated water going to put mist in the air!
Yesterday we went into Siegen to get a few things. They have a store here like home depot. It's even orange and white! We got a broom, shower mat, and little humidifiers that hang on the heaters( heated by hot water). By the way, this place is fully furnished, so we don't have to get much.
Our car will be arriving up north (3 hours) next week. Praying for good dry weather to get it.We don't have the right kind of tires here for snow/ice. I'll be happy to get our music equipment and other things.
We are praising the Lord for His goodness. He is faithful, and we trust Him for all that's in store. We never know what is around the corner, but we know Him, and He is good!! We miss you all, and are a little homesick, but know that God has put us here, and we live to do HIs will!
Until next time, "chooz" (bye) and may God fully bless you and keep you in His hand. A big THANK YOU for all those who have kept us in prayer. It surely has not been in vain!!
Love B&T
Sunday, February 7, 2010
We're Leaving!!!!
Well, time has come. These last few months seem to have both flown by, and taken forever ; all at the same time. So much has happened, and God has taken care of so many little details.
We have been moved out of our house, and have been staying with Bruce's mom, Mary for the last 2 weeks. Everything is put away in storage, and all the paperwork has been taken care of.
Many dear friends have come alongside of us, to help with so many areas. Cleaning, packing, feeding us, doing errands, storing our car and valuables, our papers, managing our mail and financial matters; and just being wonderful come-alongside friends. Without all the help, we would not be able to do this.
That's just how God works though. We are together united for His purposes and for His glory.
Today Calvary Chapel Monterey prayed over us for both services. It was a wonderful send off. We said goodbye to many friends and loved ones.
We are looking forward to what's ahead now. Monday (tomorrow) we catch the plane and leave at 6:10 a.m. We go to Phoenix, then transfer to Charlotte. We have a 3 hr layover, then go to Frankfurt. It will be a long trip. But God's grace will be with us.
We arrive in Frankfurt on Tuesday morning.
The bible college has already started it's spring semester. They started the first week already. We'll arrive ready to start working. Bruce will be teaching two classes: Church history, and worship.
I'll be leading worship 3x/week. Monday, Wed, and Friday. Our little apartment will be waiting for us. It's part of the bible college, and is about a mile? away. Praise God it will be furnished, so we don't have to bother ourselves right off the bat with details of living. We're excited about working with the students, and are looking forward to all God's going to do.
It's always a bittersweet thing to leave. Leaving our family, friends, church, house, and even our dear dog is sad. Yet moving into what God has planned is fulfilling. Today at communion, I again reflected on how much Jesus gave up for me. How much suffering, loss, and sacrifice He endured, and willingly chose to go through. All because of HIs great love for me. So again, how can I EVER say no to anything He would require?
Nothing compares to the excellency of knowing Him, and pleasing Him.
Our next blog will be in Deutchland. I won't write in German. Even if I wanted to, I don't yet know the language. But.........I will learn.
So farewell, and we'll meet up on the other side of the Atlantic. STay tuned for the coming adventure!!
Lots of Love in Him,
B &T
We have been moved out of our house, and have been staying with Bruce's mom, Mary for the last 2 weeks. Everything is put away in storage, and all the paperwork has been taken care of.
Many dear friends have come alongside of us, to help with so many areas. Cleaning, packing, feeding us, doing errands, storing our car and valuables, our papers, managing our mail and financial matters; and just being wonderful come-alongside friends. Without all the help, we would not be able to do this.
That's just how God works though. We are together united for His purposes and for His glory.
Today Calvary Chapel Monterey prayed over us for both services. It was a wonderful send off. We said goodbye to many friends and loved ones.
We are looking forward to what's ahead now. Monday (tomorrow) we catch the plane and leave at 6:10 a.m. We go to Phoenix, then transfer to Charlotte. We have a 3 hr layover, then go to Frankfurt. It will be a long trip. But God's grace will be with us.
We arrive in Frankfurt on Tuesday morning.
The bible college has already started it's spring semester. They started the first week already. We'll arrive ready to start working. Bruce will be teaching two classes: Church history, and worship.
I'll be leading worship 3x/week. Monday, Wed, and Friday. Our little apartment will be waiting for us. It's part of the bible college, and is about a mile? away. Praise God it will be furnished, so we don't have to bother ourselves right off the bat with details of living. We're excited about working with the students, and are looking forward to all God's going to do.
It's always a bittersweet thing to leave. Leaving our family, friends, church, house, and even our dear dog is sad. Yet moving into what God has planned is fulfilling. Today at communion, I again reflected on how much Jesus gave up for me. How much suffering, loss, and sacrifice He endured, and willingly chose to go through. All because of HIs great love for me. So again, how can I EVER say no to anything He would require?
Nothing compares to the excellency of knowing Him, and pleasing Him.
Our next blog will be in Deutchland. I won't write in German. Even if I wanted to, I don't yet know the language. But.........I will learn.
So farewell, and we'll meet up on the other side of the Atlantic. STay tuned for the coming adventure!!
Lots of Love in Him,
B &T
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)