The construction photos on Gary's screen saver and the accompanying flood of fond memories manage to keep our 'previous life' as ‘Baumeister and cook’ somewhat in the forefront these past months! We've enjoyed emails, telephone and Skype contact with folks in Germany. They tell us that they are enjoying use of the sanctuary, Sunday school rooms and the nice dining hall for their meetings, however, the work left to complete is a concern.
Since our leaving, individuals have dedicated time after their regular jobs, some have come from other churches to help for a few days, but there is still too much to do: floors, ceiling, installation in the kitchen, wallpapering, painting in the hallways, the baseboards, and basement. They will need additional funds for construction materials to complete the remaining requirements of the legal occupancy document. We are asking God for, and believing with Andre and the church members, that they would be able to raise the necessary funds, bring together the necessary workers and receive the legal occupancy permit before the celebrations at the end of May.
On 'a second burner' at home here, Gary continues to keep contact with the architect, pastors and missionary couple at the Camp in Sao Paulo, Brazil. MBMSI has asked that we keep part of June, July and August open for a possible construction and ministry time in Brazil. Thanks to the telephone and internet, it is possible to communicate and participate regularly, albeit from a distance. The developments during these coming weeks will determine some of the specifics of our involvement in Brazil during the summer.
With the invitation from Germany to return in 2011 to serve in resourcing, outreach ministries and church planting, we are also in the application process for long term missions with MBMSI. This has involved interviews and assessments now, and we expect to be part of the orientation, training sessions in Abbotsford from Sept - Dec.
The 'changed agenda', the uncertainties of our assignment to this point, and the short notice of our impending return to Berlin, have left our missionary support fund in a negative balance. MBMSI encourages us to go in good faith that God will provide the necessary funds for our support, both immediate and long term.
We've clearly experienced God's presence and direction during this time, and again cover your prayers for us as we pack, go, re-enter, work and bless the people at Springbornstrasse. We would be delighted if you would join us in raising the financial support we need for this ongoing ministry. Our account at MBMSI continues as #7839, and their mailing address is: MB Missions and Service International, 302-32025 George Ferguson Way, Abbotsford, BC V2T 2K7. MBMSI can be contacted at:1-888-866-6267; or by email: mbmsi@mbmsi.org.
Hard to believe there's only a week left in Abbotsford now! Hard to believe we'll be flying and jet-lagging on the Easter weekend this year!! Spring has been beautiful and it has been so good to be near family! The hard part about going is leaving.
Know that we would enjoy hearing from you and about how the last year has been for you. Always willing to 'connect' over coffee, or by email at garellie@gmail.com
Thanks again for standing behind us in this venture,
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