FAMILY UPDATE NEWS #28 -- February 1995 DO
"Keep strong in the Word! Preach the Word! Be instant in season and out of season, all the time! Always witnessing, always litnessing and always preaching the Gospel and leading others to the Lord . . . always showing Jesus' love wherever you go, wherever you are. When you see Jesus and the results, you're going to know it was worth it all! Hallelujah!" (ML# 1495:173,62).
(c) February 1995, Home Services, Zurich, Switzerland.
(Required reading for JETTs and up. Selected portions may be shared with children younger than JETTs at the discretion of their parents, teachers or shepherds.)
NOTICES
Great news! Family income reaches all-time high!
By WS Staff
In answer to your prayers and in reward for your obedience to counsel in recent Letters, your faithful witnessing and your sacrificial giving, the Family's total income during December 1994, was the highest of any month in our entire history! December was a phenomenal month, and from the looks of it, Family income is still on the rise. Praise the Lord!
Financially, 1994 started off quite slow, but after Mama's Letter's on finances were published in July (see "From Poverty to Plenty" and "More on the Importance of Making Your Needs Known" in GN 598) and WS gave away the last of their reserves following Dad's "Dream about Finances" (ML# 2937, GN 604) and the worldwide prayer day for finances in September, things took a dramatic turn for the better. The first of the "Finance and Fund Raising" FSMs were published in November, and the Family's finances continued to climb. The worldwide Family's income during the last four months of 1994 lifted the year's total to the highest ever! What a miracle!
One continental office reported: "This Christmas was one of the most exciting and fruitful we've ever had. Not only was distribution very good, but the Lord supplied wonderfully for the Homes through cash gifts and provisioned goods. Many people testified that they felt this year's witness was much more powerful than previous years', and that the Lord did many miracles to reach and touch people in a way the Family had never seen before."
Another office reported: "The Homes jumped with both feet into their Christmas witnessing, and the Lord blessed it tremendously. With extra funds coming in through witnessing, their giving was way up as well. Tithes were up 36% and designated gifts were up 56%!"
A third office reported: "December's tithes from the Homes were up another whopping 20%! Perhaps the best news of all is that this increase was not due to one or two Homes receiving an inheritance or other windfall, but rather the fact that most Homes' income through witnessing and follow up is really taking off. This is a terrific breakthrough!"
Praise the Lord! We certainly have a lot to be thankful for, financially and in every other way! "God has promised that, if we obey Him, and open the windows of our lives upon others, He `will open the windows of Heaven, and pour out such a blessing, there will not be room enough to hold it.' `Give and it shall be given unto you.' That's a law of God, more than the law of gravity!--If you will continue to overflow, God will continue to overflow upon you!" (DM1:17). Keep up the good work!--And keep praying in His promised plenty! God bless you! We love you!
Mistake to correct in FSM 263, "Educating Our Children...Finding the Balance!"
By WS Staff
On page 3, right-hand column, the second paragraph after the numbered list says, "Word time is of course a daily necessity (and can sometimes be combined with scholastics if fun and vigorous)."
Of course, we want to encourage you to have lively Word times, and if the words "fun and vigorous" bring this to your attention, that's good! However, the phrase "if fun and vigorous" was misplaced, and should have come after the next point on get-out.
We do want to encourage you not to have the children spend their get-out times doing some non-physically-active practical skills training, or perhaps being a witnessing partner involving mainly sitting and observing the adult witness. (Of course, the children will learn about witnessing, from observing, and there is nothing wrong with them doing this--but this shouldn't replace an active get-out.) An active "witnessing" get-out might include walking from place to place while postering, witnessing, or doing follow up; or perhaps being involved in a singing and dancing group. Or perhaps after witnessing, adults might take a break in a park to allow their child partners to have time to run around or play. Children of all ages, as well as JETTs and teens, need lots of physical exercise, and time to play and have fun! So, this next point should have said:
"Get-out is a daily necessity (and can sometimes be combined with witnessing and practical skills training, if fun and vigorous)."
Could you please make this correction in your copy of the FSM? Thank you!
REACTIONS, COMMENTS AND PERSONAL WORDS
To the children I hurt: You led me back into the arms of Jesus!
From Paula (Bithia)
(Editor's note: We suggest that the following letter, written after Paula met several of the children who were imprisoned in Argentina and France, be read to all MCs and up, and then discussed. The parents, teachers or shepherds presenting this to the children should be prepared to answer any questions they may have about Paula or related situations and allow plenty of time to do so. [See FUN #19 for a brief summary.]
(Upon reading this letter from Paula, Mama commented: "The things which Paula commends our children for are the same things that helped the early martyrs bring many of their captors to know the Lord--their sample of bravery under intense persecution, and their love for their enemies.")
Dearest Children,
Recently I was quite touched by a precious letter Mama had written to those of you who had weathered the fierce persecution storms. (See FUN #17.) It is in tribute to you that I now write this letter.
As I read over Mama's letter to you, it was easy for me to visualize your tender wounds. Some of these wounds I know have been deep and painful, causing you much heartache and suffering.
Indeed, it has been your heroic courage and sincere faith that you demonstrated in battle that has helped to change my life. Now, you may wonder how I know you were courageous when in fact you may have been feeling weak and afraid. You may even be tempted to scold yourself for not having had more faith. But I want to tell you that you have been triumphant in battle! I know, because I admired you in the heat of the battle when you were tested most.
You see, I was there too--watching. It was I who wounded you. I believed the battle I waged against you was a righteous one. I had hoped to rescue you from a life of presumed harm and abuse. For those of you who were captured in battle, I watched in horror as you were ripped away from your loved ones and placed in dangerous faith-destroying environments. It was not long before I saw that I had become the abuser that I wanted to rescue you from.
Then you did something that was truly astonishing. You forgave me! Not only did you forgive me, but you also loved me! And you have kept on loving me!
So you see, I know how deep your wounds are. But now let me tell you about the healing that your wounds brought about.
When I visit you and spend time with you, as I have with many of you, without hesitation you embrace me with your loving smiles and generous hugs. Even though you realize that I was responsible for putting your mother or brother in jail and caused you to lose many valued possessions, you are quick to share with me whatever it is that you have, willingly giving me the better portion. When you find me crying over my personal losses, you're right there with me, quick to comfort me and pray for me, and to strengthen me with your faith and ability to claim God's promises.
And then there are those tender moments when you allow me to help clean your wounds, and in so doing you frequently find that I am overwhelmed with guilt and feeling justly condemned. It is then that you compassionately embrace me and look into my tear-filled eyes and say, "I forgive you." And through our tears, our hearts become united and Jesus' healing balm washes and cleanses our unpleasant wounds. Amazingly, you proceed to share with me the wondrous stories, victories and memorable experiences you've encountered during the days of your "furnace of affliction." Miraculously, your stories are filled with visions of angels and divine interventions rather than recalling the intense heat of the furnace.
Truly, "a little child shall lead them," as you have me--straight into the arms of Jesus. You have taught me the true meaning of love and forgiveness. Each of you possess more faith and courage than I could ever dream of. You are teaching me to know Jesus in a very personal way--which you would not be able to do unless He was intimate with you first. It is I who am the child, and you my teachers and guides.
Though your wounds may be tender now, the day will come when you can display your battle scars with pride and proclaim with passion, "These are the scars from the battle of '93! What a victory the Lord gained that year!"
Mama said, "Soldiers in men's armies who are wounded in battle get special medals. When soldiers in the Lord's army are wounded, they get eternal heavenly rewards which are much better."
The medal I have been given has been the badge of forgiveness, for which I owe my thanks to you. The sacrifices you made to secure this badge for me are all being tallied on your behalf even now.
Nowhere else have I encountered such supernatural love, and nowhere has the Lord become more alive and real than He has in my companionship with you.
So please don't get discouraged: Even when you think you are weak, He is strong and He will faithfully work through you. There are so many other more deserving souls than I that are even now desperately waiting for a ray of hope to enter their lives. Let us now enter this battle together and fight side by side for the victory that the Lord has promised us.
With much love and gratitude,
Auntie Paula
WANT ADS
Daddies/mates wanted
Would you like to be the daddy of two beautiful girls? My name is Joyful and I have two sweet on-fire girls, Daniella (6), and Gaby (2). We have been praying for a daddy--specifically in this new year--and we trust the Lord will do it. Right now I'm in an inspiring pioneer Home in Italy. (We're pioneering this area, plus working in refugee camps nearby.) So if the Lord puts a burden in your heart, please contact us. We're also ready to change to another area or country if that is His will. God bless you! We love you! Joyful (Editor: No age, nationality or address given. Please respond via your reporting office.)
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Hello. I am Tabitha Praisemore and I have three beautiful girls aged 12, 8, and 2 years old, and am pregnant with my fourth. (Editor: Tabitha's baby was due in late December. Details of the birth have not yet reached WS.) We have lots of love to share with a precious brother out there! Would you like to write and find out more about us? We'll answer anyone who writes. At present we are in the British Isles, but are open to suggestions of travel. We love you and hope to hear from you soon. (Editor: No age, nationality or address given. Please respond via your reporting office.)
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Hi! My name is Faithy Fighters. I'm a 43-year-old American and a Scorpio. I've been in the Family for a total of 17 years. (Most of these years were spent on the foreign field.) I have three beautiful daughters: Lisa (14), Rachel (12), and Lily (10). At present I am provisioning, doing outreach, follow-up and mail ministry, which I really enjoy. I also enjoy cooking. I'm not extremely talented in any special area, but I've been told several times that I have the gift of helps.
I've been a single mom for almost 10 years. There is a need in our lives for someone who is willing to be a "real father" to my children and a sweet, loving companion to me. If you have kids that need a mother and/or if you need lots of affection, warmth and TLC, then please pray about this request. If you believe that the Lord is calling you to fill this need in our lives, then please write and tell me why you believe it's the Lord's will. I will answer you right away. You can reach me at: T. Anderson, #176, 12430 Tesson Ferry Rd., St. Louis, Missouri 63128, USA. (Editor: Since it is Family policy to avoid publishing street addresses of Homes, we assume that the above address is a mail service.)
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My name is Joan (Irish), and I am a 41-year-old Pisces. I have three boys: Timothy (14), Michael (11), and Jason (9). We have been praying for a daddy for some time, so whether you're a single brother or a single daddy, as long as you have a real daddy's heart for children, we'd love to hear from you.
My main ministry is childcare and teaching. If you share the same vision of pouring into our children and "teaching and training them in the way which they should go," I'd be happy to team up with you, and try my best to be a sweet, loving mommy. Presently I'm in England, but would like to go to a new field. If the Lord speaks to your heart about us, please write. We look forward to hearing from you! Lots of love, Joan. Our address: BM Box 317, London WC1N 3XX, England.
FAR EAST
FAMILY SAFE IN KOBE EARTHQUAKE!
In the early morning of January 17th, Japan's worst earthquake in over 70 years leveled parts of the western port city of Kobe. Over 5,000 people were killed--many in the major fires that followed the quake--and several hundred thousand more were left homeless. Thank the Lord, there were no Family members in Kobe at the time. A couple of years ago we had a Home in one of the areas which was worst hit. Thank the Lord for His foresight and infinite care in leading the Family to move out well ahead of the disaster! "A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee" (Psa.91:7).
JAPAN FAMILY SHINES IN KOBE RELIEF PROJECT!
From reports by Claire, Ezra and J.P.: In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake, nearly all of Kobe was without electricity and a million households were without heating in the dead of winter. Water and food were scarce. Many houses and buildings, if not totally flattened by the earthquake or burned by the many fires that followed, were considered unsafe for living until tested, leaving 300,000 homeless. The Homes throughout Japan immediately volunteered personnel to help in the relief efforts.
After preliminary research indicated that going through official government channels would be quite difficult and slow, they contacted various friends, looking for possible open doors. Mr. I., one of the Family's friends in Kobe who is a prominent businessman, had already begun his own relief project with only a handful of people, independent from the various government agencies. When the Family offered their help, he was overjoyed. "I have supplies and places which need help," he said, "but lack the laborers." This was the opening the Family had been praying for!
Within hours, the first team left from Osaka. It consisted of seven adults and 17 YAs and teens, traveling in three busses and a two-ton truck laden with food and other supplies. They made large signs for the front and sides of each of the vehicles which read, "EMERGENCY RELIEF SUPPLIES," and they obtained the necessary police permits in order to use the roads which were designated for emergency purposes only.
Even though they arrived at 4:00 a.m., Mr. I. was there to meet them, and helped them set up their operation in large tents which he had erected right in front of the main train station. Within a few hours they were busy distributing the food they had brought with them, as well as food which Mr. I. and others provided. Some of the first people to be fed broke down and cried as they ate their first meal in four or five days.
Mr. I. also contacted a number of radio and TV stations to let the public know that the Family was distributing food at this location. Less than 12 hours after their arrival, various TV and radio crews were at the site, filming the operation and doing interviews. This area, like the rest of Japan, has heard a lot of false reports about the Family, but now they are getting a chance to see what we're really like. Praise the Lord!
That evening another team of five from nearby Family Homes arrived with two more truckloads of supplies and stayed to help. Ever since that first night, the team has been sleeping in tents in near-zero temperatures.
When they heard that access to a certain area of town was so difficult that 70 people there hadn't yet received any relief supplies, a team of teens headed off on bicycles to see what they could do to help. Within a few days, they had organized daily bike and motor scooter teams to take hot food to this and other areas which were unreachable by car or truck. They have now distributed truckloads of goods this way, bit by bit.
At the time of this report, over 50 Family members are in Kobe, directly involved in relief work. From all reports, these trying circumstances are bringing out the best in each of them. God bless them. Friends, contacts, officials and converts all praise the Family's work and expertise in this type of situation. The local government has virtually recognized the Family's operation as an official supply depot and distributor of needed goods, so many of the city offices and agencies are channeling their donated goods through the Family. Independent volunteers are coming to the Family, asking to be put to work. They see that the Family is getting things done and affecting change, and they want to be a part. Praise the Lord!
The rest of the Family all over Japan also continues to do all they can. Those who can't go themselves, support the others in prayer, provision and organize the shipping of food and other supplies to Kobe, and raise funds for several Homes which are sacrificing much of their personnel and normal witnessing to help this crisis situation. God bless them all!
LOCAL OFFICIALS PRAISE OUR CHILDREN!
From Alf, Jonathan and Sunny, Japan: For the fourth year, we invited our Home's friends and contacts over for a special "mochitsuki" party (a traditional Japanese end-of-the-year event of beating steamed rice into a rice-cake). Among others, the present and former mayors of our city and the head of our local community attended. We had a great time pounding mochi together, followed by a barbecue outside, and a nice little performance by our singing group and some of the adults in our Home. Our guests seemed quite pleased with our school and children, and both mayors said that those who oppose us would be ashamed of their own children if they could see our children's sample.
NORTH AMERICA
MULTITUDES FED AT CHRISTMAS!
(Editor's note: Lord willing, this next article will be included in a FAR special issue consisting of some of the most inspiring reports of your Christmas '94 outreach. In the meantime, we're including it here for your inspiration. It has been edited for the GP.)
From Cacho, Mexico: Several Family Homes joined forces to feed and perform a Christmas show for thousands of Mexico City's poor in the city's main square, the Zocalo. We organized a one-week program to collect food and raise the needed sponsorship from friends and local companies, then we printed and distributed invitation flyers to beggars, vendors, shoe-shine boys, street sweepers, etc. One blind man asked his boy to read the invitation and then commented, "You see, son, God didn't forget us. We are going to have Christmas after all!"
Many restaurants promised to donate cooked food on the appointed day. One restaurant owner, who is a friend of the Family, decided to close for the day in order to dedicate his whole operation to cooking for our Christmas dinner for the poor. Other friends offered to cook pots of food in their homes. One bakery donated over half a ton of bread, and another sponsor gave over 3,000 disposable plates and cups.
The big day arrived and we went to the square, still planning to go through with the show even though we had no generator for electricity and our sound equipment hadn't arrived. As we unloaded the food, it continued to cook in the hot morning sun. We needed a miracle or two.
A few minutes later, a total stranger approached us. We gave him an invitation to a free meal and answered his questions about our work. "What compelled you to do such a thing as this?" he asked. When we answered that it was the love of Christ, he pointed to several large tents on the opposite side of the square. "They're mine," he explained. "I had also planned a big Christmas program, but my performers are very late and now I'm stuck with no show!"
When we introduced him to our teen performers he excitedly exclaimed, "Look, I've got a stage and no show and you've got performers and no stage. Why don't we join forces? You can use one of the tents to set up your food line and you can use the big tent with the stage for your Christmas program!" When we explained that our sound equipment hadn't arrived, he pointed to an array of sophisticated equipment being unloaded from his trucks and said, "It's all yours to use!" We had prayed for help from Heaven, and this was it!
We quickly organized our teams and started setting up in both tents, but before we were finished, dozens of people had already arrived and were asking for free food. We hastily passed out donuts and coffee, trying to buy a little time. Soon so many people had gathered that we began to think we might get mobbed before we could get our serving lines organized. As we worked, we prayed that the situation wouldn't get out of control. Soon some of the children and women who had come to be fed pitched in to help us set up, and everything proceeded smoothly.
For the next seven hours, twelve of our staff worked non-stop serving food to what seemed a never-ending line of hungry people. One elderly lady cried openly as she stood in line. "I've never seen anyone do something like this for others on Christmas!" she said. A few times we looked in the pots, thinking they must surely be empty. Somehow the food seemed to stretch and stretch. By the time our last guests had eaten their fill, our servers had dished up more than 3,000 meals.
Other Family members gave away free toys and clothes to people as they passed through the food line. The parents seemed to appreciate this even more than the children. To our amazement, strangers kept bringing us more bags of clothes to give away!
Meanwhile, in and around the large show tent, a crowd of several thousand gathered for the musical program, which was emceed by Francisco and included our teen singing group, our younger children's show and Juan's puppets.
Several times when the crowd swelled and things seemed to be moving so quickly, we wondered again if we were going to be able to keep everything under control. We shouldn't have worried.--The Lord had everything under His perfect control. In the food tent the long queues moved quietly along and the meals were served in an orderly fashion. The show tent was filled with the joy-lit faces of dear, impoverished folks cherishing their own Christmas musical on stage. On the fringes, our teens talked with individuals who approached them for prayer and counsel about their problems. Hundreds prayed with us that day to receive Jesus.
Finally the last were fed and our kids had sung their hearts out. As we packed up and said good-bye to our new-found friends, our hearts echoed what they had been telling us all day. This was the best Christmas we had ever had.
FAMILY SHOW TROUPE IS "CATALYST OF CONTROVERSY" AT M.I.T.!
From Ahlai, USA: We surely sent shock waves through old MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) when our 12-member show group performed on the steps of the student union for nearly one thousand passers-by during the busy lunch hour! Several days later, an article appeared in the school paper, complete with a great picture of the show troupe in action and banners in the background. One banner read, "The Family Sings Live!--Making the World a Better Place!" The other banner was our Family symbol. The article, which called our show "a catalyst of controversy" over religious freedom, greatly multiplied our Endtime witness and message. The paper is circulated to all of the colleges and universities in the Boston area!
MEETING WITH DAUGHTER OF ELIZABETH CLAIRE PROPHET!
From a Home in the USA: We had a sweet time with 22-year-old Tatiana Prophet, fourth child of Church Universal and Triumphant (CUT) leader, Elizabeth Claire Prophet. Tatiana remarked that she very much enjoyed the visit of some Family young people to the CUT headquarters last year. During our conversation, she went into detail about how her eldest sister, Moira, had "defected" to the ACM--much the same as Deb--and she spoke of the agony her mother went through over it. Moira finally returned and her mother forgave her.
Tatiana was home-schooled before attending university. She now works full time with their church, and is doing research in preparation for writing a book about her mother and the history of the movement. God bless her, she is a credit to her mother.
CHURCH MINISTRY UPDATE!
From Joy, Phebe, Stefan, Ruth and Timmy, USA: Our teens were invited by the youth pastor of a large non-denominational church to help lead the Sunday morning meeting for their 150-member teen department. Our teens presented a powerful program with lots of variety, including songs, dances, skits and reading the story of "Tommy." We were invited to return to lead a meeting for the whole congregation.
We also lead the Sunday morning singing at a Lutheran church twice each month, and that pastor referred us to another Lutheran church which was looking for help with their adult fellowship group. Now each Saturday night, a two-man team from our Home receives a good donation for leading their singing. The program consists of about eight Family songs. As with most of our new projects with the churches, we arranged a one-month trial period before committing ourselves any further.
OUR DETRACTORS, "FOILED AGAIN!"
From teen Angel, USA: One of our detractors, who is closely affiliated with CAN, teaches at a college which is very close to the gas station where we do a weekly car wash. (See previous car wash testimony, "Celebrities Receive Witness from Family Teens" in FUN 25.) He stopped in one day to find out if we were the Family, meaning COG. When he found out we were, he immediately went to "inform" the owner of the gas station that he had been duped into letting a "cult" use his place for a car wash. Several days later, he returned to give the gas station owner a lot of anti-Family material. When we talked to the owner later in the week, he was a little confused. He said, "One of you--either the Family or this other man--is of God.--And whichever that is, the Devil is fighting them." We arranged a special meeting to better explain our work, after which he said he was convinced that we are of God and our enemies are of the Devil! Praise the Lord! This sweet man continues to let us use his gas station every week, God bless him!
It also just so happened that the week after this detractor showed up, we provisioned a professionally made banner which says "The Family Car Wash." We loved putting it up for all to see!--Not only for our customers and the thousands who drive by, but also to boldly proclaim our presence in the faces of our enemies! We've had no more problems with them since! Praise the Lord!
(Editor's note: On the subject of teen car washes, Mama recently commented: "Car washes have been good for our kids for several reasons. They have been answers to their prayers for support and have brought in good support quickly. They've been a good witness with Family banners, Family tools available and people being able to see the Family young people working hard like any normal teenagers who are uniting for a cause. Even if there was no witness at all--which isn't the case--the exercise that the kids get would probably make it worth it; it's good get-out that they probably desperately need. I believe that anything that our young people can do to get out in the public and be seen by them and be any kind of witness is a good start.")
"LET ANOTHER MAN PRAISE THEE..." (Pro.27:2).
When the Washington D.C. Home needed to move, they asked their landlord for a recommendation letter, which he was more than happy to write. Mama commented: "This is a good example of what the owners of all the properties the Family rents should be able to say when we leave. Such letters of recommendation from satisfied landlords can be very helpful. I think this letter speaks very well for the Family, and it could serve as a sample letter for other Homes who have kept up their places well and want to ask their landlords for a letter of recommendation when they leave."
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
We rented our home, located at _________________, to the Family. Our home was managed by my associate while we were in Europe.
We were very impressed by the great care and diligence they exercised as tenants. They maintained the property in the most professional and exemplary manner. They made wonderful improvements on the house and in the garden. After first securing our permission and concurrence, they undertook these improvements on their own initiative, with great professional care and at their own expense.
During the two-year period they rented our home, we are pleased to report that the rent was always paid on time, the grounds were very well kept and substantial improvements to the property were made by them. We can honestly state the house is today in better condition than when they began their lease.
As the manager of the property, my associate, who has managed many properties, cannot say enough kind words about these wonderful tenants. He feels that they treated the property as if it were their own home.
As owners, we are deeply indebted to them for all the loving and tender care spent these past two years to make our home a much-improved property.
Should you wish to have any further information, you may call us during normal business hours at _________.
Yours sincerely, ___________.
EUROPE
HIGHLIGHTS FROM CATACOMBERS IN THE FORMER SOVIET UNION!
From Magda: After three years, we now have over 50 catacombers spread between eight catacomb groups in different areas of the former Soviet Union. (In these same areas we have over 1,200 outside witnessers who distribute our literature--about 400 of whom live in Siberia.) Each catacomb group is led by a teamwork of catacombers. Most of them have received their main training from Family pubs with very little oversight from DO Family members. Generally speaking, each catacomb group does even more soul winning and lit distribution per month than the average DO Home in Russia.
The catacombers in Irkutsk (eastern Siberia--where we previously had a DO Home) have rented an apartment and some of them are living by faith. Recently the Lord supplied so much through their provisioning (warm sweaters, gloves and canned food) that they were able to share it with a DO Home in another city and also some orphanages.
In Chelabinsk (Urals), all but one of our 10 catacombers are girls, and all but three are still going to school or college. Four of the girls live together in a hotel room which they provisioned for as long as they need it. Recently they presented the KVs to the regional TV station, which reaches an estimated three million viewers. After watching the KVs, the station asked the catacombers to make their own 30-minute program.
These catacombers also have a new ministry at a prison for women. Recently they met the pastor and teacher of a local church, who were quite impressed when the catacombers did activities, sang songs and memorized verses with their kids.
In Khabarovsk (eastern coast of Siberia) we have what we call the "big nine" (six girls and three boys who are long-time catacombers), plus another 10 or so younger ones. All of them are students. They are quite well organized and do very well in their witnessing and feeding their sheep. They go on trips to other cities and towns too. On an average they win about 250 souls, give out 10,000 pieces of lit, and do three shows per month. They have performed on TV, rebutted negative newspaper articles, etc.
In Moscow there are six girls who really love the Word and are faithful witnessers. A couple of them lived in for over a year, so they are able to strengthen the other girls. One of the former live-ins now has a job--and ministry--in a prison. These girls have regular meetings together, and come to our Home once a week for fellowship, APT, and to restock their lit and tool supplies. They go for faith trips, do kindergarten shows, do personal witnessing, postering, tapenessing, etc. Last week they spent a whole day organizing our Russian lit library and preparing lit orders for catacombers in other cities.
In Minsk (Belorussia) we have six catacombers (five boys and one girl). This catacomb group has had the least training from us, as we only make occasional trips there. It's the only one of the cities listed here where we haven't had a DO Home at some time. They've visited Family Homes, but none of them have ever lived in. They do programs in kindergartens and youth centers, and hold small Meaningful Meetings. They are also working on a short program to be broadcast by the local TV station daily. They have no technical training, are not experienced musicians or performers and don't have the needed equipment--not even a proper guitar. But they've got the Lord, His Spirit and pre-recorded Family materials (KVs, etc.), and the Lord is really using them.
In Kiev (Ukraine) the six main catacombers are quite well organized in their care of younger catacombers and outside witnessers. They usually distribute 50-70,000 posters per month. They are also starting prison and seminar ministries.
The catacombers in Riga (Latvia) hold regular meetings, do kindergarten shows, and help several orphanages.
There is also a catacomb group in St. Petersburg, but details of their recent activities are unknown at the time of this report.
ASIA
"BONEY M" RECEIVES ENCOURAGEMENT AND WITNESS!
From the Bangkok Training Center: A team of YAs and adults met and sang for members of Boney M, the world-famous Jamaican rock group, some of whom are born-again Christians. They were in town for a New Year's Eve concert at one of Bangkok's top hotels.
To make a long story short, the team from the Family felt strongly that they should try to meet and minister to Boney M, so they went to their hotel by faith. They were told they wouldn't be able to meet the group until after their performance, but persisted and finally met lead singer Liz Mitchell and her husband (who is also their manager) in the hallway, struck up a conversation, and the Mitchells invited them to the concert as their special guests.
After the concert, in the Mitchells' hotel room, the Family spent several hours singing and ministering to Liz, her husband, two of their backup singers and several band members. After the song "Someone to Care," they were all in tears. At one point, one of the group's main sponsors phoned and asked them join him downstairs, but Liz told him he would have to wait. "We're talking with some important friends," she said. The Family gave them copies of "The Lion, the Dragon and the Beast," "New Worlds" and some Reflections. As they were leaving, Liz thanked them over and over again, saying, "We're always performing and giving to others. Hundreds of thousands of people have come to our concerts to enjoy our music, but this is the first time someone has come just to give to us!"
When the Family phoned the hotel the next day to say good-bye, Liz and her husband said they would like to visit the Home when they pass through Bangkok again after the next leg of their tour. Please pray that the Family will be able to follow up on them, as they seem quite precious and needy!
SAMPLE WINS FRIENDS, DESPITE "BAD" PUBLICITY!
From a Home in SEA: The president of a large pharmaceutical company invited our singing team to perform for the local chapter of an international civic club. The function was attended by many prominent businessmen, both foreigners and locals. Our program began with a presentation of our work, the various activities we're presently involved in, and a summary of our goals. The team performed a variety of songs, both Christmas songs and others. An anti-narcotics song, written by Michael Piano, was very well received, especially by the locals who were attending. After the last song, the audience broke into thunderous applause that went on and on. Totally out of character for this type of audience, they called loudly for another song. That song brought a standing ovation which moved some of the Family singers to tears. At this point the senior vice-president of a major five-star hotel group broke protocol, jumped on the stage and exclaimed that in all of his years in hotel management and show business he had never seen anything as moving or as charming as the Family's performance! Praise the Lord for such an incredibly warm and positive reaction!
Although quite a few of those who attended this function had read negative articles that were recently published about the Family in the local English-language papers, their response to meeting us personally was overwhelmingly positive. One man commented, "Don't worry about all the negative articles and publicity. What I've seen today speaks louder. You'll always have opposition, but don't worry about it. Just keep up the good work!"
"UNTO THE UTTERMOST PART OF THE EARTH...!" (Acts 1:8)
From Gideon, Ana, Peter, Sam, Stefan, Heidi, Pakistan: We sent a three-week road team to a town approximately 1,000 kilometers from Karachi, on the Afghan border. This is a somewhat primitive area, known for its drug and weapons smuggling activities. However, the people there are very open and receptive, and our four-man team had a wonderful time ministering to people from all walks of life, giving them the Words of Life as well as the tools. In just three weeks time they were able to give out 220 videos! Many schools and educators were especially interested. One highlight of the trip was when they met the minister of education for the province. He was so enthusiastic about the Kiddie Viddies that he arranged to buy five complete sets, and then distributed them to various local schools!
One city father received us very warmly on a follow-up visit. After a meaningful conversation about godly values, he took two more of our videos for his 13 children and two wives. He had met us some years ago and appreciated our message, as was evidenced by the two faded posters taped to the rear window of his van for all to see! Although a devout Muslim, he also greatly appreciates the teachings of the Bible, and has a copy of his own, which he showed to us. This offered us an opportunity to give him a feeding class right from this "other Holy Book."
We followed up on a precious Christian couple who run a school for poor children in the city. They also care for over 20 orphans. They have all our videos and really love them. They give their young students our posters as shiner rewards when they do well.
One day we visited a small, poor school to give a video demonstration. When we arrived there was no electricity, as there had been a power failure. We offered to pray for the problem to be found and fixed, and ten minutes later the power came on! The children all came in for the video, but their video player was old and didn't work properly, no matter how much we tried to adjust it. We decided to ask all the students, teachers, and staff (who were mostly Muslims, plus a few Hindus and Christians) to pray with us that the Lord would fix it. Immediately after praying, everything began to work properly. They were all thrilled! Not only were they able to see the videos, but they were amazed to see the Lord answer prayer in such a specific way. Afterwards, some of the staff said, "We want to know more about God and His power to work such miracles!"
AFRICA
ZIMBABWE PIONEER REPORT!
From Eman: We met the director of a number of orphanages who was so impressed by our videos that he ordered three complete sets and introduced us to a woman who helps to oversee homes for children throughout southern Africa. She is interested in ordering the videos in German, Portuguese and English for a large number of schools in Mozambique, Angola, South Africa, etc. There is certainly a very great need for our tools in these schools and orphanages, some of which operate under crisis conditions, caring for children who have AIDS, etc. Please keep us in your prayers!
SOUTH AMERICA
VICTORY IN BRAZIL HOME SCHOOLING APPEAL!
In a landmark decision which is expected to have a major bearing on other pending court cases involving Family Homes in Brazil, by a vote of seven to one, an appeals court in Rio de Janeiro has ruled that the Family there may continue to home school their children! Praise the Lord! In order to see the situation first hand, the prosecutor assigned to the appeals court visited the Home involved, was very impressed and wrote an extremely favorable report which apparently formed the basis of the judges' final ruling. What a wonderful answer to prayer!
"MEANINGFUL MEETINGS" BRING VISITORS AND NEW LIFE TO OUR HOME!
From Phil, Brazil: About six weeks ago, instead of doing our usual Saturday night restaurant singing, postering and witnessing, we decided to take a "step of faith" and pioneer something different. We agreed to take part of our very busy Saturday afternoon to plan and prepare power-packed songs, skits, and inspirational readings, and then invite our friends over for a "meaningful meeting"! We say it was a step of faith because here people have a reputation for making appointments and then not showing up. We didn't want to sacrifice an afternoon's work and a night's fruitful witnessing for something that wasn't going to happen.
We waited and waited for our guests to arrive, and finally started the program for only one visitor. But by the time we finished the first set of songs, our living room was full of people! The skits (adapted versions of "The Box" and "Randy") were real hits! Soon all of our adults, teens and JETTs were involved in greeting visitors, making and serving snacks, or preparing for and participating in the skits or music. It was so unifying to have everyone working side by side!
We did it again the next weekend and even more friends and visitors came!
Having this weekly meeting has added extra "umph" to our witnessing because our witnessers know that they have a regular weekly live sample to which they can invite the most potential people they meet. The visitors usually resemble a cross-section of our own Home, being about half teens, and the other half adults and children. We direct the meeting to the teens and we've found that the adults who come really like the young, fresh, lively presentation of the message. We began one meaningful meeting with our Home's "Kiddie Show" for the parents and children who came, and finished with music and skits for the teens. This also worked well.
Even though our Home is in a remote area quite far from the city, the people come out to see us burn! Considering the time and effort that goes into these meetings, we've sometimes wondered if we should have them every week. We decided, however, that it was important that our friends know that they have a time when they can come for fellowship, and it's borne good fruit.
This new united witnessing activity has also pumped new life into our Home. Now instead of hearing, "What video are we going to watch this week?" or "What's the special activity going to be?" we hear, "Hey, we've got to get some skits together for Saturday!" or "Should I phone some of the sheep?" etc. Our whole Home is becoming more witnessing-oriented, and we're really thankful for the fire and other blessings which come along with that!
TESTIMONIES OF SUPPLY
PHILANTHROPIC ASSOCIATION GIVES OUR HOME A BOOST!
From a Home in Japan: This past summer, our spirited JETT/OC singing group, "The Heavenly Singers," were the top attraction at a prestigious fair. There they met Mr. Suzuki, who was captivated by their sweet spirits and invited them to sing at a party he was organizing in December for a philanthropic association. Later, he explained that this dinner event would be attended by 250 guests, all of whom are top executives or presidents of their respective companies.
Over the next few months, Mr. Suziki visited our Home a few times and learned more about our international missionary work. He urged us to take full advantage of this opportunity to perform before these business leaders, suggesting that we set up a booth to promote our videos and make our financial needs known. His association had already pledged a large donation for the show, but Mr. Suzuki also wanted us to solicit donations from the guests. "This is your chance!" he kept saying.
The show we did for this group was electrifying! The stage, sound, and lighting were excellent and the kids performed beautifully. During the first song, a lady in the audience was moved to tears and walked up to the stage to gave a large donation to one of the children. At the conclusion of the program, Mr. Suzuki stood up and gave a little speech, briefly explaining who we are and the work we do. Then he held up two large bills, pointed toward our booth and explained that he was going to make a personal donation. "I suggest that you all do the same," he told the audience. From that moment, our booth became a major attraction! Almost everyone visited our display corner, where large pictures illustrating our activities in the community were presented alongside our Kiddie Viddies and various literature. People literally lined up to talk to us at our table. In the end, we sold 47 videos and received donations totaling ten times what Mr. Suzuki gave! Praise the Lord!
"SHALL HE NOT MUCH MORE CLOTHE YOU...?" (Mat.6:30)
From Peter and Mary, Tim and Marie, SEA: Most of our JETTs and teens needed to renew their wardrobes, so we visited a few garment companies and each of them helped us with clothing. One company alone donated 23 big boxes of T-shirts, pants, and shorts--more than enough clothes for all the JETTs. Two sports shoe companies gave over 40 pairs of brand-new, top-quality shoes--an answer to our prayers!
"WHERE GOD GUIDES, HE PROVIDES!"
From Stevie, Pakistan: Due to our isolated situation, we need to dupe our own videos for distribution. In order to supply an upcoming road team with enough videos, we needed to dupe a lot of copies from a number of different masters. This is very expensive here, and we just didn't have the funds for such a large order. We decided to go to a new studio by faith, and prayed that the owner would either donate the studio time or give us a very good discount. The owner was sweet and agreed to let us use his equipment right away, even though there is normally a waiting list and we didn't have an appointment. When we explained our work and "consider the poor" projects, he became really excited! "Oh, I know you people," he exclaimed. "I attended your Christmas program last year! I like what you are doing to help my country!" He then agreed to lower the price to exactly the discount that we needed and had claimed in prayer!
EAVESDROPPER PAYS OUR WAY!
From Tim (of Angela), Australia: While on a recent road trip, I was on a public phone trying to provision a hotel. On the phone next to me a man from Hong Kong was chatting to his friend. It so happened that one of the hotel owners was Chinese, so being fairly fluent in Mandarin, I started talking with him in that language.
As soon as I hung up, the man on the phone next to me said, "I couldn't help overhearing your conversation. Hey, where did you learn to speak Chinese?" So I told him about the years I had spent in Taiwan and Hong Kong as a missionary, and it turned out that he was a sincere Christian. "Why are you asking hotels for a free room?" he asked. So I explained how we live by faith and usually don't have money for things like that.
"Did you find anything yet?' he asked. I told him that so far I'd only been offered a discount, but that it would still cost us $80 for two nights if we took it. "No problem, I'll pay for you!" he said, taking out his wallet and handing me the money. "And you had better take this as well, in case you don't have enough for food." And he handed me another $50! Praise the Lord! We were really inspired by the Lord's provision!
MIRACLE HOUSE!
From Mary, Sarah and Matthew, Australia: The Lord miraculously led us to our new house. It all started with a phone call from our landlord. He explained that due to a financial bind, he needed to sell the house we were living in.
About ten minutes later, we received a call from Elizabeth, a TSer we are close to. She explained that for several days, each time she drove past a certain house she got a check from the Lord about it. There was no indication that the house was for rent, but Elizabeth finally decided to stop and ask. As she approached the door, a lady was on her way out. Elizabeth asked if she would like to rent the house. "How did you know?" was the lady's shocked reply. "I've been renting the house myself, but was just on my way to the office of the company that manages the property, to terminate my lease." To make a long story very short, we rented the house and it's just what we need! It's situated on two and a half acres of land, and has five bedrooms, a study, a swimming pool, and a large garage which the agent suggested could easily be converted into nice additional bedrooms.
TS HIGHLIGHTS
TS KIDS EXCEL IN PUBLIC SCHOOL!
(Editor's note: In publishing the following testimonies, we are not promoting System schooling: However these reports do serve as encouraging examples of how the Lord is able to keep our kids and help them excel when home schooling is not possible. Also, as these parents testify, these success stories in System school are a wonderful reflection on Family training and the care of our children.)
From Charity, USA: The Lord has helped our kids who have to go to System school. Gabriel, who is 17, has been attending public school for three years. The first year he was a straight-A student. The second year he took part in many extra-curricular activities. He was still an "honor roll" student and his fellow students voted him "best-liked boy of the year" and "most likely to succeed." He also received several awards from the teachers for good conduct. The third year he maintained his honor roll status and was on the basketball and soccer teams, for which he also received awards. So Gabriel went right from a Family co-op school to a public school and adjusted just fine.
Luis, 15 years old, is in the 9th grade. On his latest achievement tests, he scored perfect in spelling, average in math and way above average in all of his other subjects. Luis says that he already knows a lot of the things covered in his classes because he's read about them in the Letters, whereas the other kids know very little about current events, etc.
Our other three children are now in the 4th, 5th and 6th grades. Their first test scores taken after leaving the DO Family placed them average or above average in all subjects, and they have been able to keep up without any problems. Having learned to read at early ages has been a big help. Praise the Lord!
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From Steven and Mary, Italy: Jessica has finished elementary school with top grades--the best in her class--and was praised by her teacher for having covered the curriculum in two years instead of the usual five. Naomi also passed her junior high school exams, doing the last two years' courses in one. All of our other children got good grades too. Thank You Jesus!
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From David and Maria Clara, Italy: Our three children, Juan (15), Lily (12) and Mariangela (9) all scored well in recent evaluations. Their teachers really like the children's abilities and scholastic discipline.
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From Caleb and Rose, Spain: Elaina (15) finished her studies at night school and got her "Graduado Escolar" diploma with a notably high overall score. She did all of her studies in Catalan, which is really her third language. The system school experience hasn't been as positive for our other children, but as Elaina was able to study at night school with older people who for the most part were also studying seriously, she didn't have to cope with the bad influences of system teenagers who are often into all kinds of foolishness.
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From Daniel, Germany: Our children all passed their school grades with great success, and their reports made special mention of their good behavior throughout the school year. We are so thankful for Family training which has given them such a firm foundation.
HOMEGOING ANNOUNCEMENTS
Angie, 4, of Jonathan (formerly Tiras Seeds) and Priscilla, South America: On January 14th, the Lord answered the Family's prayers for sweet Angie's healing by taking her to be with Him! Following are excerpts from a letter which Jonathan and Priscilla wrote to Mama a few days after Angie's homegoing:
Dearest Mama Maria,
As you might already know, our daughter Angie has gone to her heavenly home to join Jesus and Dad and our loved ones there. Hallelujah! The tremendous battle for her healing which we've been fighting for the past four months has ended with a wonderful victory! Praise the Lord! She's healed now, never again to feel pain or suffering. We could never have made it had it not been for the prayers and loving encouragement of our dear Family, and the Lord's words through Dad and you.
I want to say that I honestly do not believe the cancer killed my daughter, but that the desperate prayers of our wonderful Family moved the hand of God to mercifully deliver her from her pain and suffering. I'm so glad and at peace in my soul that she's "safe in the arms of Jesus" forever! Glory to Jesus!
Dad's homegoing helped to prepare us for her graduation with the comforting thought that if God took her home, she would be with our beloved Dad and get to sit on Grandpa's lap. (Editor's note: When the news of Angie's homegoing reached a WS office, before reading this letter from Jonathan and Priscilla, someone there had a vision of Angie sitting on Grandpa's lap!)
The GN on Dad's graduation changed our lives and truly brought Heaven much closer to us all. Your reaction and presentation of the news of Dad's departure was so faith-building and surely helped prepare our hearts for what the Lord was about to do in our lives. It's easier now for us to let go of earthly things and pleasures, and to truly "set our affections on things (and loved ones) above!" (Col.3:2).
We miss her a lot and feel times of pain, but as Dad said, "Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal!" When I went to the cemetery to bury her, as I walked away my heart hurt so much. But then I felt she was trying to say, "Dad! Hey, Dad! I'm not there, I'm up here!" Hallelujah! Then the Lord helped me to smile through my tears. Jesus is so sweet!
We both feel honored and privileged to have had our daughter called to the halls of Heaven to join our loved ones there, as they help prepare a place for us too! As Martin Luther said when his 13-year-old daughter died in his arms, "I have sent a saint to Heaven."--We have too! I pray I can make her proud of me as her father--one of "David's Mighty Men"!
I'd also like to add that Angie is still being a witness here, as I tell everyone about my daughter's homegoing, and explain that she is with Jesus now and happy and healthy. People's first reaction is always, "Oh, I'm so sorry!" But when I share about Heaven and God's promises of eternal life, they see that death is the door to a better life.
Angie has already visited two times since her homegoing. Jordan saw her the next night in the room where Priscilla and I were sleeping. Also Claudio, a close friend of ours, saw her in his office. He said she was dressed in a blue dress--which is what she was wearing when we buried her--and she was all happy and cute. (Editor's note: Another report explained that Jonathan has been faithfully ministering to Claudio for several months, and that Claudio had been especially concerned about Angie's condition. When Angie appeared to Claudio to reassure him that she was happy and healed, he not only didn't know that she had been buried in a blue dress, but he did not even know that Angie had gone to be with the Lord. He learned that when he phoned Jonathan to tell him about the spiritual encounter he'd had with little Angie!)
Love and prayers forever,
Jonathan and Priscilla
LATE BREAKING NEWS:
Joanna, a Brazilian sister and single mother of four, went to be with the Lord on February 2nd, after a sudden stroke. She had not been sick, and on the day of her passing showed no symptoms of illness. She was busy and inspired when other Home members saw her less than five minutes before her stroke. However, it seems the Lord prepared her heart, as she had been talking about Heaven and singing the song "I'll See You in Heaven" throughout the day! The doctor who wrote the official report of her death explained that she died instantly and painlessly. The children are now with Joanna's (favorable) relatives. A Family couple who has been very close to Joanna and her children is requesting to adopt the children.
ANSWERED PRAYER
Heidi (of Peter), Australia (PL 23:40): In answer to everyone's prayers, Heidi is doing much better! Over the past several weeks she has regained most of her strength, is not experiencing any signs or side effects of the cancer, and is nearly her bubbly, busy self once again! Recent tests indicated that the cervical tumor and cancerous spots in her lungs have all shrunk to about half their former size and are not growing or spreading at present. What a miracle! Praise the Lord!
PRAYER REQUESTS
(Editor's note: Because Prayer List 23 will reach you very soon, if it hasn't already, we are including here only prayer requests which we received after that Prayer List was finalized.)
CRITICAL AND LIFE-AND-DEATH SITUATIONS: (For 14 years and up.)
1. Abi (formerly Morningstar Kings), Europe: For complete healing from cancer of the cervix. Please pray that it will not spread; for strength and speedy recuperation following an initial minor operation; for faith, wisdom and encouragement; also against unrelated stomach problems.
2. Hope Gepetto (TS), North America: A few months ago, Hope underwent surgery to remove a large malignant tumor from her brain. That operation was successful, thank the Lord, and Hope came through it miraculously well! However, recent tests show that the cancer has grown again and Hope is again in critical condition. Hope isn't experiencing any pain, but is having trouble being clear in her speech, which is frustrating for her. Please pray for a miraculous deliverance, and for her doctors' wisdom in any further medical care they suggest; for needed strength and faith for Hope and her family.
3. Please continue to pray for those listed in the "Critical and Life-and-Death" section of Prayer List 23:
>> Trust (of James), SA.
>> Heidi (of Peter), Australia.
>> Swiss Phoebe, Europe.
>> Jonathan (newborn of Joseph and Ruth, TS), North America.
>> Peter (3, of Dust and Maria, TS), Europe.
>> Faith (of Philip), Asia.
>> Liz Grey, Asia.
>> Thai Abe, Asia.
FAR EAST:
4. For the Family's relief efforts following the Kobe earthquake: Open doors, wisdom, fruitfulness, good health (despite living in tents in near-zero weather), protection and supply (including extra support for Homes who are sacrificing personnel and regular witnessing activities to help meet this urgent need). That the Lord will continue to lead the Family relief team to the neediest souls, both physically and spiritually; that the Family will also be a help to the many foreign students there who are very disoriented.
5. Crystal (of Hab), Australia: For healing from breast cancer, which is in the early stages. At present, Crystal doesn't have any serious symptoms, thank the Lord. Please pray that the Lord will remove the cancer before it spreads any further, and for faith, strength, encouragement, and wisdom as Crystal consults with her doctors about her condition.
NORTH AMERICA:
6. For Dr. Chris: a DO member who is also a practicing physician, has been diagnosed as having multiple sclerosis. She is going for further tests to confirm this diagnosis. Thank the Lord she is not presently suffering any serious symptoms of this debilitating disease. However, she is experiencing pains in her back, arms and hands. Please pray that the original diagnosis will be proven incorrect, or that the Lord will miraculously heal her at this early stage.
7. For Paula (Bithia): Against severe attacks of discouragement at a time when she is about to embark on an important new project.
ASIA:
8. For a series of very important benefit concerts in India, the first of which is scheduled for March 4th. A number of Family singers, dancers and technicians have travelled to India to take part in these concerts, so please pray for their further travel arrangements, quick adjustment to India's climate and culture, and anointed performances; also for the organization and success of these benefit shows, that they will be a powerful witness and open new ministries in the vast and needy mission field of India. It is going to take a miracle to put together the shows, as well as make all the logistical arrangements, in such a short amount of time. So let's pray for a miracle, the kind that our God specializes in!
EUROPE:
9. For Greek John (TS, of Hannah) to be completely absolved of any wrongdoing in a court hearing scheduled for February 28th. John is appealing a lower court's ruling in which he was fined $20,000 and faces up to one year in jail in a case involving a former Family vehicle which was registered in his name. When John returned from the mission field several years ago, he was informed by the government that, unbeknownst to him, the vehicle had not been deregistered when it was scrapped, and he is therefore liable for many years of back road taxes.
10. For four Romanian Family members who are due for military service, that they will be released from the draft, or at least that their military service will be postponed for several years.
SOUTH AMERICA:
11. For Joanna's children (see above homegoing announcement): That the Lord will encourage and comfort them, as well as those who lived with and were close to Joanna; that the Lord will have His perfect way regarding a Family couple adopting the children, who have expressed a desire to remain in the Family.
12. That a serious border conflict between Peru and Ecuador will be resolved quickly and peacefully. Recent border clashes have already claimed a number of lives, and if a peace agreement is not reached soon and fighting escalates, this could result in Family members from those countries being called up for military service, as well as other serious hindrances to our work in those countries.
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"And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask any thing according to His will, He heareth us: And if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him" (1Jn 5:14-15).
Copyright (c) 1998 by The Family