the grapevine
(Issue #43; June 1, 1998.)
kidbits
little lovebugs
Miracle, 2nd child, born to Ester on January 25th.--Brazil
Kevin Angelo, 7th child, born to Maria and John on February 28th.--Brazil
Baby (no name given), 6th child, born to Silvia and Marcelo on February 28th.--Argentina
Aline Batista, 7th child, born to Clara and Joao on March 3rd.--Brazil
Amanda, 1st child, born to Ana and Daniel on March 4th.--Brazil
Christopher Gitano, 2nd child, born to Ruth and Gabriel on March 8th.--Brazil
Philip David, 1st child, born to Letisia and Juan on March 10th.-- Italy
Baby (no name given), 1st child, born to Rebecca Amor on March 11th.--Ecuador
Gabriela, 1st child, born to Cristal Love on March 14th.--Brazil
tidbits
new laborers
Tiago Andre (20, Portuguese) joined in Brazil, in January.
Mark (26, Australian) joined in Australia, in February.
Sergio (27, Argentinean) joined in Brazil, in March.
getting together
Godfrey and Spring got married on March 2, with family and friends attending.--USA
Pioneering
Nigeria
(From Aaron, Oli and Elizabeth:) This last month, half of our Home hit the road to Calabar, the easternmost city in Nigeria, which is nestled in the jungle away from everything. Calabar was the first place in West Africa to be pioneered by missionaries. However, for some time now, Calabar has turned away from its beginnings of Christianity, and is well known for its involvement in Ju Ju (a traditional African religion). Calabar is now the Nigerian headquarters for some of the ancient mystical groups such as the Rosicrucians, the Order of the Cross, and others. Witchcraft is the norm in this part of Nigeria. Even cannibalism still exists in very remote parts of this region.
When our team of six adults and four children arrived in Calabar, the Lord opened a door for a place to stay immediately. We started off with a bang by invading the main university in the city. After a morning of witnessing, we arranged a meeting with all the interested students at lunch. Over 60 students came to our meeting, and we gave them an Endtime class. They were very turned on--so much so that they took up the torch to get out the rest of our posters throughout the university.
At the same time, the children and two of us adults were invited to record a children's show at the city's largest radio station. The entire program was done by the children, including the narration. Considering they are only five to seven years old, they did fantastic. The show will reach half a million people!
On the tail end of our journey we were able to go to the British Museum in Calabar and see pictures of Calabar's past. It was so special for us all as we went through the museum and saw the pictures of Mary Slessor (a famous missionary to Calabar) and artifacts from her time. It was a reminder to all of us of what really made a missionary in those days, and the difficult lives they endured. It made us want to all the more give our entire lives to Jesus.
on the net
Germany
(From the German PPC:) Did you ever meet someone while out witnessing that was really sheepy, but you couldn't send them any follow-up material as they only spoke German? Never fear. Help is here! The German area PPC has recently been working on a Web site where you can download all the German lit available in text form.
The address is: http://members.xoom.com/German_ppc. (Please note the following three details: There is no www prefix for the address; the capital G; the "underscore" between German and ppc.)
On this site you will find the text version of all the lit we have available at present, ready to download at your request. We hope that the site will be a blessing and that it'll be a help in feeding His sheep. Any comments or questions can be sent to our e-mail address, diefamilie@bluewin.ch.
1) International Family Web site - March 1998
The stats have been steadily climbing, with 1.1 gigabytes downloaded from the International Family site, averaging over 37 MB per day. The International Family site was visited 5,874 times!
2) Members Only site - March 1998
447 MB downloaded from the Members Only site, a great leap from the 118 MB downloaded in February! 1,902 visitors were recorded as visiting the Members Only site!
3) Work in progress:
a) A new Family history section is being designed for the main Family site!
b) Additional songs for the Songbook on the Members Only site!
c) A new music section for the GP, including some of our latest GP songs from the three GP tapes [Higher, Uncharted, Free Zone]! Please keep this in your prayers.
1. GP and Members Only sites stats report - April 1998
a) This month 1 gigabyte was downloaded from the International Family site in March, averaging nearly 34 MB per day. The International Family site was also visited 4,205 times.
b) 430 MB downloaded from the Members Only site. 2,100 visitors were recorded as visiting the Members Only site!
2. Work completed and uploaded in April
Complete listing of all recommended (and non-recommended movies) on the Members Only site!
3. Work in progress
a) Additional songs for the Songbook on the Members Only site!
b) A new music section for the GP, including some of our latest GP songs from the three GP FTTs!
c) "Latest News" section for the GP site, of exciting happenings (with audio and video clips) of the Family's work around the world. This project is still in the embryonic stages, so all prayer (as well as any reports, photos or video clips of such happenings) will be very appreciated!
Spanish Family Web site - April 1998
--www.lafamilia.org
1) April Web Stats Report:
a) 286 MB downloaded, about 10 MB per day.
b) 1582 people visited the site, about 53 people per day.
2) New sections added in April:
a) Revamped and updated FAR section
3) Work in Progress:
a) Adding new FARs
b) Adding MO Letter condos to "Our Founder" section
c) Adding several Statements to "Dossier" section
d) Adding the Charter to "Dossier" section
e) Redoing sound clips for CD section
f) Adding "Feedback" form
think deep
Sometimes the Lord calms the storm; sometimes He lets the storm rage and calms His child.
media coverage
--from all over
Hungary - Zenith TV (formerly ZTV) continues to broadcast clips of our TAs and KVs, reaching over 1 million viewers monthly in Budapest and other parts of Hungary.--Ruby, Peter and Faithy
On April 6, a TV program called "Reflex" was aired on the RTL Klub channel, a new station which has become very popular. The show began with a film about a kidnapping and deprogramming. Following this was a discussion on NRMs, where someone spoke derogatorily about the Family and FFing. Czene Gabor (a journalist from one of the largest Hungarian newspapers) refuted that statement, explained the Family no longer practices FFing anyway, and went on to speak very positively about the way we teach our children.--John and Ruby
Romania - We participated in a weekly radio talk show on Radio AS, reaching about 130,000 listeners in Suceava.--Josiah, Joy, Victor and Julia
Russia - Avtoradio (audience: 350,000) and Radio Uralsvyaz (audience: 150,000) aired a program several times this month covering the opening of our center for homeless children.--Jered, Christina and Michael
Bosnia - One of our shows for 1,000 kids at the main school in Kiseljak, central Bosnia, was filmed by KISS TV (audience: 500,000). They put nice clips of our show together with a very positive presentation of the Family as an international volunteer group, and a summary of our work in Bosnia. It was aired on the news that night!
A reporter from the local radio station also recorded a report on the show and a short interview, and later we had a live interview in their studio (Radio Kiseljak) with the lady in charge of that program, who we had met before and became good friends with. This radio interview was with Becky, Enoch, Daniella (SGA) and Jasmine (YA), and it went very well and was a good presentation of the Family and our work. A newspaper article also came out in a well-known Croatian newspaper (circulation: 500,000).
Another major media event came up when a reporter came to our door asking to use our phone in order to conduct a live radio report on the soccer game happening that day. Our house overlooks the town's soccer field, and from our entrance upstairs you get a perfect view of the games! This man also happens to be the director of the bank in our town and a well-known reporter who writes articles for the three national Bosnian newspapers! When he heard we were volunteers doing humanitarian work, he wanted to do an article on us.
We were desperate when Becky and Enoch went for the interview a few days later, as we knew that appearing in one of these national newspapers could make us or break us, especially in this sensitive area! TTL, it went very well and his first question was, "What would you like me to write about?" He also asked which of the three newspapers we would like the article to appear in! We gave a general presentation of our volunteer work and activities in Bosnia.--Enoch, Angela, Peace and Becky
Albania - One of our live-outs translated and printed the "Bible Code" article in the second biggest weekly magazine. This article was also read on the main TV station reaching all of Albania (circulation: 3.3 milion).--Christian, Marco and Gabriel
Japan - One of the major TV stations in Japan interviewed Japanese Alf and Claire (who have 11 kids) for a special program concerning "good husbands." The program introduced three couples, and devoted 15 minutes of air time to each of them. It was MC'ed by a famous and popular commentator, and was aired on May 11. One of the best film crews in the country filmed Alf and Claire's Home for two days--home-schooling, CTP projects, shopping, JJT, devotions, etc.--About 800 minutes of footage! The crew said that their family was too good to be true, and they were all very positive and favorable toward our way of living.--Stephen, VS
Thailand - A very positive half-page article about the Family, including six beautiful color photos, was published on April 29 in the third largest newspaper here in Thailand.--Silas, CRO
Our local day-school!
--what just a little love can do
(From the Home of Chris and Celeste, Caleb and Sonnet, John Mark and Hope:) We recently pioneered a small day-school in Monterrey, Mexico. By sharing with you a little of how the Lord led us into this project, we hope some of you in similar circumstances might benefit!
A little background
We are a Home of campers in Mexico, consisting of three couples in motorhomes: two large families (with eight and six kids respectively) and a couple without any resident children. We came to Mexico just over a year ago. Our first year in Mexico consisted of "entrance exams"--adjusting to a new field, learning a little of the language, and getting to know the national brethren. For the most part, our Home has been supported by fund-raising trips to the U.S. on a monthly or bimonthly basis--permitting us to learn to witness locally without too much financial pressure.
Last fall, in one of our monthly city council meetings, one of the nationals put forth a proposal to have an area day-school. It was apparent that many were really struggling in single-family Homes with lots of kids, supervising all the different age levels, and the huge task of supporting themselves (which is extremely difficult for those who have to raise funds solely in Mexico). Though some had the burden to teach their children, there didn't seem to be enough hours in the day, and with English being a second language for many, CLE or BEKA were a bit daunting.
However, the mommies in our Home had been enjoying having immediate contact and oversight of the schooling of their children, post-Charter. They were not really interested in going back to a "group" situation where they felt they might lose the personal touch with their kids. Also, there was no location available for such a school. So the idea was shelved at the time.
Unchallenged kids
After the Christmas push, our attention shifted to plans for the new year. We have a very nice situation, with a scenic place to park our motor homes, and favorable landlords. We are surrounded by mountains and live under shady trees next to a large grassy field where the children have plenty of room to play.
However, in spite of what seemed like an ideal situation, the children did not seem to be as happy or challenged as we wanted to see them. Fellowship with other Homes was sporadic. We were quickly realizing that just being "on the field" was not an answer in itself. Other parents in the area had also expressed their concern, as their OCs and JETTs seemed to be unchallenged and bored. It seemed to be a general trend in our city.
A new vision
Just after Christmas, our landlady informed us that a small house located on the same property would be vacated soon, and asked us if we wanted to rent it. We tossed around several ideas such as a common kitchen and meeting room, or renting it out to another Family couple. There was a measure of uncertainty about it, so we kept the matter in prayer. It was during this time that Chris received the vision for a day-school.
He was burdened for the children in the area, and felt a school might provide the fellowship and change the kids needed. He and Celeste took time on their next W&R to pray further about the idea and do some research in the Word on the "school vision." After getting a confirmation from the Lord, they decided to present the idea to our Home.
Their proposal came as a bit of a shock, as it represented a complete change of direction. We agreed to ask the Lord about it on the spot. The Lord spoke very positively about the idea, through one of us who had not been in favor of the move.
Overwhelming Response
Being potentially such a big change, we took a little time to absorb what the Lord had said, and then agreed to proceed in presenting the idea to the area. We called a city meeting within a couple of days to see what everyone would think. The response was overwhelming. The Homes were wonderfully in favor of such a joint venture. We spent several hours discussing ways to help each other towards our common goal.
Polarized!
You would think that with such a confirmation the way seemed pretty clear. However, there were a myriad of physical problems to work out. One of our families was away on an extended business trip and we were only four adults at the time. A quick calculation indicated a possible enrollment of close to 30 kids, divided into three levels. Some of us felt we should have a full day from nine to five, which would include Word time, get-out, JJT and quiet time, in addition to scholastics. The rest thought we should stick to scholastics and let the Homes take care of the additional care and supervision of the children--at least until we got more teachers. Also, many of the children had fallen way behind in their schooling and were without proper books. We had no desks, no blackboards, poor lighting, and only one toilet.
We had our ups and downs for a few weeks, battling over whether we should go ahead with this project or just abandon what seemed too overwhelming. In the end, we polarized. Speaking very candidly, it was a big time of testing for our Home. While some were determined not to let "anything quench the (Lord's) Spirit," the Lord had made it clear we were all "welcome in whatever capacity we chose."
When we believe not
Thank the Lord that when we believe not, He abideth faithful. The Lord soon helped us all say "yes" to Jesus, so we went ahead, by faith, and told the landlady we'd take the place. Just days later, one of the dads showed up with 10 desks and a huge whiteboard. Then two of the parents offered to help share the teaching of the OCs. They also said they could each bring a nice, long table with chairs, for the younger class.
At our second planning meeting, a senior teen offered to help Celeste teach the YC/MCs, and a national brother agreed to give weekly classes in Mexican history. During our first week of school, one mommy showed up in a truck with two portable bathrooms, and a sister from the SC provisioned seven sets of fluorescent lights. Someone else came over with a heater and paint for the bathroom. One of our teachers returned from a border trip with greatly-needed school books which a Christian school had discounted to him, along with lots of posters and colored construction paper.
On a recent business trip to Canada, Sonnet provisioned a suitcaseful of school supplies, and last week one of the parents called to say that a local company was prepared to donate any amount of scrap wood we needed for building shelves, etc. This is a huge blessing in Mexico, where wood is extremely scarce and expensive!
Enormous progress
In just two months we have seen enormous progress in the children's scholastics. They are getting consistent schooling, and are challenged to keep up with each other.
Before school started, we had a teachers' meeting where we set a united disciplinary standard. The Lord had told us to be strict at first, as many of the children were unruly. It took a few weeks for them to settle in. We made it clear that those who didn't really want to learn might have to stay home.
The first hour of the day is Word class. The older ones are reading the New Wine and being challenged in Endtime preparation by learning to hear from the Lord. Get-out is an important time for the children, as they all look forward to playing games with their friends. Most of the children do not have yards to play in at home, whereas the school is blessed with a huge playing field and an indoor swimming pool. They are very thankful for their school.
Increased unity
In addition to the way the school is serving our children, the area has also benefited from increased unity. We have seen the Lord fulfill His promise to use the school as a cohesive force. Each person is pitching in to do whatever they can to make it work--whether teaching, provisioning or transporting children. We are also learning lessons of love--learning to communicate if late, having the grace to absorb additional work and cover for someone else when needed, etc.
Life is not without its struggles. There are daily challenges as we all struggle to establish order and a pleasant learning environment. We seem to take turns getting a bit discouraged as we encounter various difficulties and the Enemy tries to fritz up the work. With unity being one of our main goals for '98, he really fights us on that point. Then, when we fight and don't give him place, he tries an outside attack like vehicle breakdowns, childhood diseases, etc. But, as long as we keep loving Jesus and staying yielded, He is able to turn seeming setbacks into good.
Teachers: Our greatest need!
Teaching staff remains our greatest need at present. Teacher absence, unfortunately, often means cancellation of classes at this point. If any of you feel called to such a work, why not ask the Lord if He wants you to contact us? We welcome any and all communication. Contact us directly at our e-mail address: FireBallCC@aol.com. You can send designated gifts through your TRF to The Monterrey Day School. Thanks so much! WLY!
find-a-friend
Christy (Lamb, of Jason) is looking for Danish Celeste. E-mail: WILAWISP@aol.com. Add: C. Hanna 16523 96th St., Live Oaks, FL 32060.
Australian Faith (formerly Leah, of Gil) wants to contact Gideon and Esther, previously in Madras. Add: MBE 138, Levent 80600, Istanbul, Turkey.
Michel (in France) would like to contact Byron and Psalm in Australia. Contact me via EURCRO.
Hungarian Christine (Martha) would like to contact Andrew and Andrea. Contact me via the Hungarian ABM.
Daniel Dutch seeks urgent contact with French Mary and Daniel (in London?) E-mail: DAN@ERIDAN1.KIEV.UA.
Black Jewel is looking for Cristia Dieter. Last known location was Croatia. E-mail: Goforest. Add: Jewel, 754538 Ave. N., Apt.5 St. Petersburg, FL 33710
Gloria and Estrella (of Joo and Maria) in Brazil please contact Daniella (of Marcos and Sara) IMMEDIATELY through e-mail: lahome@iafrica.com. Add: PO Box 15079, Beacon Bay 5205, South Africa.
Could Enoch and his sister, Marie (Rachel) please contact Melissa (of Christina, Joyous) and Patrick (Sammy) at: someturtle@usa.net.
Sarah Arrow (of Daniel Arrow) lost contact with Joseph or Philip Bechard (Dad). E-mail: seapands@poikc.bashnet.ru.
Yanek (of David and Heidi), please contact Daniel. E-mail: criptus@arrakis.es. Add: Cenaceros 20 Pedregalego, Malaga, Spain.
Sharon (Usha) and Dita Kaiser please write Heidi at e-mail: Privyet@privyet.lviv.ua. Or contact me through the Polish ABM, Home # UI003. Eve (of Jerry and Joanna), Joy (of Peace) and Rosa Deogracias, please contact Clare (of Pierre and Cedar) at above address.
Iris (Portuguese) would like to contact Pedro (Spanish, of Hannah). We lived together in Valencia in 89. E-mail: bmh@nutecnet.com.br. Add: Caixa Postal 216, CEP. 70359-970, Brasilia, DF, Brazil.
Lance and Davida, Hannah in Romania would love to hear from you! Add: CP 22-516 Bucharest, Romania. E-mail: familia@ starnets.ro.
Alissia, please contact Joana in Brazil. E-mail: msantana@netville.com.br.
backtracking
A kidbit correction: Sonja Loraine was born on January 25th, rather than October 27th. Our apologies, Esther and Jonathan!
notices
Educational materials
Japan
(From Ginny, FED:) Recently I came across an Internet mail-order bookshop called "Amazon." They carry a large percentage of the books listed in both the CVC book list and the "Educational Book Guide." This is a real time and money saver when ordering, as other mail-order bookstores usually only specialize in certain subjects, which means you have to order from several different stores or publishers. Whereas this bookstore has it all, and the ones they don't have in stock, they can order or find for you, if you like.
I checked their prices against another good mail-order shop, Great Christian Books, and found the prices comparable, with discounts ranging from 20% to 40%. They say they ship anywhere in the world, and international ordering seems simple. Postage for standard shipping is $4.00 per shipment, plus $1.95 per book. You can pay with a credit card, check or an international postal money order drawn in US dollars.
Their e-mail address: www.amazon.com
Their address:
Amazon.com Books
1 Centerpoint Blvd.
P.O. Box 15550
Wilmington, Delaware 19850-5550, USA
Phone: (206) 694-2992
highlights from NACRO
--Summit 1998 feature article
(The following excerpts were taken from one of the Summit meetings, in which each of the CRO teamworks gave a 30-minute presentation. Please bear in mind that these aren't comprehensive outlines of all that's been going on in each area--just some highlights of what's happened since the last Summit meeting in 1996.)
The NACRO area includes United States, Canada, Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Belize, Nicaragua, Honduras and Panama.
The NACRO teamwork is Abi, Dust, Abner, Andrew, Simon, Ezekiel and Sunny, Jason and Cedar.
In North America there are
193 CM Homes -- 2,400 CMs
215 FM Homes -- 1,300 FMs
CRO Team, Field Bases
Dust: Since the Summit of '96, we have five new additions to our CRO teamwork: Simon, Jason and Cedar, and Ezekiel and Sunny. Actually, Andrew arrived in NACRO just shortly before the last Summit. So in a sense, we have six additional CRO teamworkers. Ezekiel and Sunny joined us from SACRO, and Jason, Cedar and Simon are new CROs; it's been a wonderful blessing to have them all. We're now nine CROs on the NACRO team. We have united teamwork meetings every three months, which last a week to 10 days.
Since the last Summit, we pioneered a number of new CRO Field Bases. Aside from the various ministries which go on at these CRO Bases, one of their main purposes is for our CROs to live with and train our VSs.
One of the first CRO Bases to be opened after DC was the LAMB Home in Los Angeles. Then Abi pioneered her base in San Antonio, Texas. Simon opened a new Home in Atlanta. Even at our office, Andrew opened a new Home fairly recently. Jason and Cedar went on to pioneer a new Home with Ezekiel and Sunny in Guadalajara, and then Ezekiel and Sunny branched out from there to open a new Home in Cuernavaca, just south of Mexico City.
Since Summit 1996, 400 missionaries have left the US and Canada for greener pastures.--But our numbers don't seem to decrease! As some go out, others come in. The present NA Family population is 2,400 CM, and 1,300 FM.
Central America was once part of SACRO, but as of a year ago, it is part of the NACRO area--a very precious field. Cuba, however, still remains part of SACRO. Teams do go to Cuba from the US, with clearance from SACRO.
Overview of the US Work
We'll begin in the Western United States (which includes Hawaii and Alaska) and Western Canada. Abner oversees this area.
VSs Tim and Joy have been traveling the Northwest; SGAs Sharon (of Gary), Eva and Ben White have visited in California, and they've all helped with Family camps held throughout the area. They have worked together with a number of YAs and SGAs in the LAMB Home who have functioned as VS trainees. Ado and Kanah have also worked as VSs, helping with Family camps, CVC seminars, and visitation throughout the West. They now are focusing on taking teams of teens abroad into countries like China, India, and Russia, via an exciting program they have dubbed Just Go! - In '98.
The West consists of about 100 Homes. There are some 65 FM Homes and 36 CM Homes. In Abi's area there are 22 FM Homes and 38 CM Homes. The Mexico and Central America area consists of 31 FM Homes and 39 CM Homes. There were some 15 CM Homes in Mexico just about a year ago, so the number of Homes there has almost tripled. There's been a real push into Mexico from the United States. Homes in Mexico are almost without fail the top soul shiners of the world, as reported in the Grapevine.
Abi oversees the central area of the US, and her VS team includes Elise, Frank and Sara, and Christina (SGAs). It used to include parts of Mexico, but now it doesn't because Ezekiel and Sunny shepherd the southern part of Mexico and Central America, and Jason and Cedar the northern part of Mexico, along with Robin (VS).
Simon from Atlanta oversees and shepherds the Southeastern US, which is everything east of the Mississippi and south of the Virginias, and includes Puerto Rico. I (Dust) oversee the northeast.
In the Southeast (including Puerto Rico) there are 73 Homes; there are 39 FM Homes and 34 CM Homes. The Northeast has a total of 105 Homes; 61 FM and 44 CM. The Northeast VS team of James, Ahlai, Miguel, Meeky, and VS trainees Sam and Esther base out of DC.
North America's monthly stats are about
-- 40,888 souls
-- 500,680 tools (posters, tapes, videos, tracts, etc.)
-- 261,185 personal witness
During the past 12 months
-- 15 CM new disciples have been won
-- 8 FM new disciples have been won
-- 10 Former Members changed to CM status
-- 52 Former Members changed to FM status
-- 106 FMs changed to CM status
-- 100 babies have been born in NA, or nine per month
[Note: Based on a year's average]
JETT/Teen/OC Camps
Abi and Ezekiel, in San Antonio, were the first ones to start having camps. They held the first JETT/teen camp in the San Antonio area, shortly after Abi's team was asked to leave Brother Thomas' house. They had to open a new Home in San Antonio. They moved near to what we call Casa Blanca, the Home of Mercy, Joanna, Amos and Faithy, and Eli and Renee, where they held a series of camps for JETTs, teens, OCs and another camp for YAs.
Family Camps
The Lord showed Abner to try something innovative and start having what we call Family camps. That was a real step of pioneering. Until then we'd had a number of JETT and teen camps, even TTC '96 in Mexico. Some of the kids who went to that camp had never been to any kind of camp or fellowship in their lives.
Family camps simply means that instead of having a camp designated for a certain age group, the entire family is invited. Some of the advantages are that everyone gets to come and no one has to stay home to care for the other kids, etc. Everyone who comes receives the same vision and inspiration, too. So it's not like your JETT comes home and gives you the vision of what happened. While the YCs, MCs and OCs are with their groups, the JETTs will be having a class, the junior teens likewise, and then the senior teens through the adults are usually in united meetings together, with different activities in the evenings. They have been having them every three months in the Western US.
At the same time, Simon and team hosted Family camps, JETT camps and teen camps in the Southeast as well. We had a massive Family camp in DC, with over 500 CMs and FMs in attendance, and another one in Texas with around 400 people in attendance.
Other happenings
Service Centers: We have three Service Centers. Andrew got together with Matthew Canada and opened a new Canadian Service Center in Montreal. There's the US Service Center, and there's one in Mexico. The Mexico Service Center is becoming a legal entity because there are some opportunities in Mexico to sell videos in a big way under contract to some people who want to distribute to some System markets in Mexico and elsewhere.
Homes Online: About 75% of all of our Homes in the US are now online and using the TeleTRF.
Common Pot: As the year goes by, we take a percentage out of our Common Pot in order to give free tools to the Homes for Christmas. For the last few years, we've given out $25,000 worth of Christmas tools to the Homes during Christmas time. Also, we've given a number of shiner prizes away at Christmas time (for tool distribution shiners). Last year it was a big stereo, and this Christmas it was a TV/VCR combo.
The Common Pot also subsidizes all the e-mail communications for Mexico, as well as purchasing computers for the Homes. In order to help each Mexican Home get a computer and on-line, the Common Pot pays half the cost of their computer. Our Common Pot also subsidizes the price of the tools for the Family in Mexico, so they can buy their tools at cheaper prices, since they sell them cheaper there than in the U.S..
Media teams: We have two media teams in North America: Marc and Claire located in DC, and Ben and Maria in Mexico City. They both do a tremendous job. A book has been written about us, one by sociologist Gordon Melton called The Children of God--Stranger than Fiction. Dr. Susan Palmer has written a book with chapters about us, as has professor James Chancellor. In Mexico, the first book with extensive information in Spanish about the Family, compiled by Elio Masferrer, has just come out, with one chapter written by Ben and Maria.
CLE: The CLE ministry is located in the Baltimore Home. They've done a lot recently to try to solve some of the problems with getting the shipments to the areas on time. I'm sure we'll make some more progress on that soon.
Q: Where is the hot spot(s) in your area? Or where are the hot spots to go to from the USA?
A: Recently several teams have left the States and Canada and have gone to China. At present there are teams of young people in the Washington, DC, area and other cities in the Eastern US preparing to go to Africa. The push is still on to get more missionaries into Mexico, where there's plenty of room! Mexico is a booming and precious mission field of 80 million. Central America is nearly untouched, with very few Homes.
Ado is continuing with his program of taking teen teams to mission fields such as India, Russia, and China for up to a month at a time. He recently returned from a trip to India with Tim (of Joy, VS). (See article on page 2 & 3 of this Grapevine for exciting details.) Three of the teens that went with them got so turned on to the field that they stayed (after getting clearance from ASCRO, of course!). Most of the others want to either return to India or go on to another mission field!
There are other teams throughout the US who are in the final stages of preparation before moving on to mission fields such as Indonesia, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Russia. Another team is heading up to re-pioneer Alaska, where there is a huge Latin community, believe it or not! Arthur and Becky have had an extremely fruitful ministry helping FM teens who want to become CM, and they have sent dozens of such new missionaries on to other fields. They themselves may be going on to India next year, after a job well done here!
The US and Canada are certainly not for everyone. If you are not called to be here, it may well be your graveyard! For those who are called, there are ministries to "Rainbow" kids, street youth, gangs, ethnic communities from around the world, academics, the poor, the rich, and others from all walks of life, plus a number of other exciting ministries. But beware, if you are not called by the Lord to be here you may have to fight for your life against Nivea, Oplexicon, and Satan himself! So don't fight the Lord 's conviction if He wants you to be somewhere else!
Q: Any new ministries your area is pioneering, special opportunities, etc.?
A: GP ministries: Trust and Claire answer the 800 phone (1-800-4-A-FAMILY) at the LAMB Home. They also answer the e-mail from the International Family Website, produce the Wine Press and send it to a growing mailing list of former members, also offering them many of the latest tools. These are brethren who still love us and count themselves one with us, but for one reason or another are not in either the CM or FM Family.
Follow-up Desk: A new GP Follow-up Desk is now in the planning stages and will also be launched in the near future.
Upcoming CDs: The DC Band/Studio has just completed a new album, Eagle Bleeds, of heavy-duty witnessing songs which should be coming your way soon. The DC Home is continuing to produce CDs for the Family, with their latest production being Loving Jesus, Set II. That CD consists of Embrace and Dancing with Jesus. The DC Studio is planning to record a Simon Black album in the near future, while the CD project team is planning to put out a new compilation set of fast and slow songs taken from FTTs 9 through 13 as well as Higher and Wild Wind. These CDs are entitled Swift and Smooth.
FCF umbrella: Many Homes in the US and Canada are coming under the FCF umbrella, and with the winning of the Freedom Works Award, (see May "service" FAR) a new push is being launched to capitalize on the benefits therefore.
look for
(From Mama:) A terrific article coming up in the Zine, for young and old alike!--An exclusive interview with the NUTS missionary Home in Russia, featured in Zine #20. Don't miss it!
letters to the editors
Re: "Some of our saints"
I wanna say a big "Amen" to the thanks expressed in Grapevine #39 to those special nobodies in Thailand who have been helping Pearl's family. We used to have a family helper as such (we are a family of 11 kiddos) when we were in Thailand. Name: Simon (now happily mated himself to [another] Pearl in the UK). He was always there as our foster dad, and you could almost say "servant," as he attended to our every need while our dad was serving the Lord in different fields. The younger kids still talk about him, though it's been about five years since we last saw him. He, like Irish John and Crystal (in Thailand), was always jumping in when needed, and without ever complaining. As a 10-year-old at the time, I remember always admiring his willingness! We love you, Uncle Simon! Missing you! With love, the Bush family!
--Janet (teen of Asaph and Charity), Pakistan
Open letter to ASCRO shepherds
I wanted to thank our faithful and concerned ASCRO shepherds who for years have laid down their lives sacrificially and have been there for us personally. They have been a never-failing source of encouragement to our field, and have always kept a close, regular and personal connection with us via messages or visits. On a distant mission field, it has made all the difference to know they care so tenderly for each of us.
Recently, after reporting some hardships our Home was facing, we received a beautiful, heartfelt, four-page message with encouragement, prayers, prophecies and most importantly, the reassurance of their daily prayers. The following week we witnessed some wonderful answers to their prayers. I am deeply touched by their love and concern, and would like to express a heartfelt thank you!
--Stefan Newheart, Pakistan
what's up?
Major Mission
Mexico
(From the GuadSquad Home:) On April 30th our Southreach team in Guadalajara struck out on a CTP mission to one of Guadalajara's poorest neighborhoods, for what is considered Mexico's biggest children's holiday next to Christmas--El Dia del Nio [the day of the child]!
We had been praying for the Lord's leading in how we could most effectively reach the many poor here in our city. Sometimes we felt like we had so little ourselves in the way of provisions that we didn't know how we were going to come up with enough to give away, but at the same time we felt like a large part of our sample was to be striving to do all that we could to fill at least a small part of their physical needs, since the Lord is always so faithful to take care of us.
Like most Homes, we are pretty busy with a number of different ministries going on to just keep the "home fires burning," but when El Dia del Nio came around--a very special day here in Mexico when people across the country plan special events, food distribution, etc., for children--we felt we needed to get active and plan some sort of CTP project.
The Lord led us to "crash" a very poor community which we frequently had driven by. Then came the question of what we were going to do and how we could come up with something to give away, so the Lord led us to all go down to our local market the following day with a "wish list" of what we would like to be able to give away at the neighborhood we had in mind.
We printed up a list of some food items which we wanted to be able to give to the poor children that we would meet. It was pretty amazing for us all, as we saw the Lord supply in store after store! We realized that we had kind of low expectations for what we had put the Lord on the spot to do in regards to our provisioning; after three hours of approaching different warehouses and market stands for this project, we had come up with over 440 pounds of rice, beans, sugar, salt, eggs, etc. Wow! Where God guides, He certainly provides!
When we got home we had a "bagging party" to package up all these goodies. The next day was a Continental Prayer Day, during which time we committed this CTP mission to the Lord. The following morning we blasted off with a vanful of excited missionaries, color children's posters and bags of food to give away.
When driving down the dusty dirt road which wound through this little community, we were directed by one of the locals to the neighborhood school, which was having a special "Dia del Nio" event for some 600 of the local kids.
After explaining our intent to one of the teachers, we decided to park our "Southreach-mobile" outside the school to be able to catch the kids on their way out. This worked well, as no sooner had they wrapped up their festivities and opened the school doors than we were completely surrounded by a crowd of expectant little hands. We had made about 400 bags of food from the provisioning, which we were able to give to almost all of the children, along with a color children's poster. It took us about an hour just to hand these out.
When we ran out of despensas (care packages), as they call them here, we witnessed and prayed with the group of about 45 children who stuck with us till the end. During this whole event, many mothers and fathers stood by watching, and thanked us for having thought of them on this special day. Before pulling out, our team sang a couple of songs, and by the last song we had a little kids' "choir" singing along with us.
More than the food that was given out that day, I think the Lord made it something very special for the purpose of not only touching these precious children's lives, but also to encourage our faith that "little is much if God is in it!"
Millions hear our message!
Japan
(From the Personal Follow-up Home:) Jonathan, who works at a large local English school, was approached by his boss and asked if he would consider producing a short English conversation show that would be aired twice a week on the most popular FM radio station in the city. (Apparently, his boss had connections with the radio station and thought that this would be a chance for free advertising.) At first we weren't too sure about this, as it would take a lot of time and Jonathan was already quite busy. However, after praying we felt it was the Lord's will, so he took the job by faith. At the end of each show he was asked to request an English song, so he was inspired with the idea--as our music, after all, is the best--to bring Free Zone and other Family CDs, and to have them aired. The disc jockey was very impressed by our songs. He especially liked "Tap into the Power" and danced enthusiastically around the studio the whole time it was being played.
During Christmas, Jonathan was able to have the Christmas CD aired, which was also well-received. After a few months, we (Sarah and the older children) also went with him, as he felt it would not only give the show more variety but would be an excellent chance to witness as well. During the show, the hostess asked Sarah questions on subjects such as childcare, Christianity, family relationships and our way of life. Sarah was able to give good Godly counsel, and all the radio personnel were in awe, as they had never heard anything like that before. During the entire show, the hostess was constantly commenting on how this was what the Japanese need to hear.
So far we have been able to witness on the air for two months, and our Family music has been aired regularly for the past four months. It's amazing that the Lord turned something that began as a simple English class into a mighty witness to reach millions.
Reaching ethnic minorities
USA
(From Lydia Cook:) For about a year and a half, we have been helping from three to five apartment complexes, each housing fifty or more families of Asian refugees and Hispanic immigrants, with food and other necessities on a weekly basis as our CTP project in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The Homes in the area help by volunteering a driver each week, sharing the load of our market provisioning, and aiding in this ministry. Each week we rent a 15-foot truck, which the Lord fills to the brim! Many times we're able to help even more people in the area, including many downtrodden and broken white and African-American people who have been so thankful for even a little of the produce we give, along with a poster or tract and a smile of concern. Recently, due to a lack of personnel, especially drivers, we've had to cut down our ministry to every two weeks instead of weekly.
The Lord has put the burden on my heart to open a Home in close proximity to the area we've been ministering in, and to launch into a full-time ministry there. The need is great, as this is one of the lowest income-areas of Dallas. Most of the Vietnamese, Cambodian and Laotian families we minister to have many children and live in very crowded, low-standard housing. There is especially a need among the youth, as they are torn between being raised in America and being Americanized, and the Asian culture of their parents. There is little to be offered in the area as far as any type of recreation; gang problems are rife.
My vision now is to open a youth center to reach the youth in the area. There is a possibility that someone might donate the use of two apartments for this purpose. Many prominent individuals have said they would help to support the work once we have something going.
France
(From Joh [of Milcah]:) In a long exit corridor of a discotheque, a few years back, I was attacked by a drunk, tall and muscular Eskimo. He had been thrown out just half an hour previously by four men working there. Thinking I was one of the workers, he came towards me displaying his karate movements and saying, "I'll smash you to pieces." I knew nothing about karate, was not very strong, and was much smaller than he was. I had only one thing that he didn't have--the Lord.
I pointed at him and screamed, "I rebuke you in Jesus' name!" He was only one meter away from me. He tumbled backward as if he had been hit by a wall and fell flat on his back. I jumped on him and pinned him down. The brethren had heard my scream, and came to my rescue until the police came and took him away.
A few months ago in France, a 17-year-old college student was killed by three boys who wanted to take his gold chain. The boy had a black belt in karate, so refused to give in. He was kicked to death. Teens and YAs, please don't rely on your own strength; it's not enough in these times, nor has it ever been. Only the Lord can protect you. Believe me, I'm a firsthand witness.
movie ratings
Movies Rated for Senior Teens and Up
MERCURY RISING (1998)
Bruce Willis, Alec Baldwin, Miko Hughes
Action drama about an FBI agent trying to protect a young autistic boy after he unwittingly breaks a top secret government code. Action entertainment only.
Movies Rated for Junior Teens and Up
MAD CITY (1997)
Dustin Hoffman, John Travolta
Drama about a television reporter who lands in the middle of a hostage situation and attempts to use it for his own advantage. Somber expos of the dog-eat-dog world of media and reporting. Beware of some emotionally heavy content.
Movies Rated for OCs and Up
LES MISERABLES (1998)
Liam Neeson, Uma Thurman, Claire Danes
Dramatization of classic tale by French author Victor Hugo. Good lessons on how love and kindness conquers even the hardest of hearts. Discussion may be needed to bring out lessons for younger viewers.
MY GIANT (1998)
Billy Crystal, Kathleen Quinlan, Gheorghe Muresan
Comedy/drama about a Hollywood agent visiting Romania, who is not doing too well at his work until he meets a local giant. Expos on how people of the world use each other to their own advantage. Lessons on love and compassion and putting others first.
Non-Recommended Movies
IN AND OUT (Kevin Kline; 1998)
OBJECT OF MY AFFECTION (Jennifer Anniston; 1998)
movie reviews
Mad City
(Dad speaking:) This movie is a terrific expos. It gives clear insight into many aspects integral to the workings of the world. If it's looked at as a pure enjoyment movie, then it may not be to the liking of some. But it's not the type of movie that you're supposed to like; it's the kind that's supposed to instruct you, open your eyes, and break your heart for the lost and the lonely.
It's a good movie for witnessers. Put yourselves in the situation of the guy caught in the middle--how much could you have done in the situation? It's a sample of how this newscaster's own attitude changed by being confronted with this type of situation, and how it exposed the whole hypocrisy of the news media world to him. There's a lot in there, but it takes a mature viewer to draw it out. If the junior teens see it as a casual viewing, for fun or relaxation, they're not going to get anything out of it and it will fly over their heads.
Let people make up their own minds as to the interest level or maturity of their own kids. There are some kids on the mission field who are pretty young, but they're awfully sold out and dedicated, and this kind of movie could spark their desire for souls even further, and show them clearly where the System's at, and even the dangers of believing everything you see on TV. (End of prophecy.)
I'm wondering ...
Q: We recently got some beautiful books from the WS book printing project, some of which were distributed one per Home, regardless of the amount of people in the Home. We just wanted to ask about this, as some Homes only have four members and others, like ours, have 30 members or more. We are very grateful for the books, but wanted to ask about this, as one book in a large Home has to be shared between many.
A: Extra copies of these books can be ordered by larger Homes from your SC. There are limited stocks available, though, so the SCs may only be able to give one extra copy per Home, so that as many Homes as possible can benefit and so that there will still be copies on hand for new Homes that will open in the future.
Q: Some of the couples in our Home have expressed a desire to each have their own copy of books that are given out one per single and one per couple (for example, To Jesus - With Love and From Jesus - With Love). There probably are good reasons for it being like this, but we wanted to ask if there is any possibility of sending such books as one per Charter member?
A: While it would be nice for every member to have their own copy of these books, we are limited by finances, and thus decided on the one per single or couple ratio. We hope that it will suffice, and enable everyone to have easy access to these terrific books.
mama's mailbox
Dear Mama,
I think the last Feast was the best I have ever had--not that the others weren't wonderful, but I was more desperate and more desirous to get what the Lord had for me. I think that desire is a result of the Loving Jesus revelation.
When I have prayed or heard from the Lord, I've often pictured Jesus in Heaven speaking to me, looking at me with such love and warmth and understanding. Seeing Jesus like this has always been a great help and encouragement to me. But during the Feast, one day while we were praying, I felt Jesus taking my arms and swinging me around and dancing. We were both so happy and laughing. It was so real, and I felt Him closer than I think I have ever felt Him before.
One of the points in the "Goals for 1998" was to have fewer lonely people in the Family. For a few years now I have been living separate from my wife. Although we meet every now and then, most of the time, like any other singles, I have felt very, very lonely. The Word has so much to say about how if we give love we'll get love, but in my misery, I didn't really see it. Then after the Feast, I prayed about this goal and thought of all the others in the Family who are lonely and probably worse off than me--single mothers with no one to help with the kids, or those in small Homes with very little fellowship. So the victory is that the Lord helped me to think more of others and what I can do to help, and now I don't feel so lonely myself anymore!
--P. (adult man), Asia
former members seeking contact
Serena Joy, a former Family member in the States, is looking for Dutch Peter Page (Antoine Walberg). His daughter, Victoria Rose (7) would like to contact him. He can contact her via the following e-mail address: SerKay@aol.com.
Jennifer (USA) would like to know if any road trips come through Savannah, GA, so they can stop by. I would like to find Belte, Kohath, Erastus Rural, Shafat Muscrat, and others whose names I can't remember. My name was Pandita. I joined in 1974, in Atlanta, went to babes ranch in Dallas, then Jacksonville, Fl; Cincinnati, Oh; Bowling Green, Ky; Louisville, Ky; Indianapolis, Ind; Mobil, Al; and a few other places in the States. Thanks!
Our Indian adventure
--Just Go! - In '98
As you read in Grapevine #40, Ado (of Kanah) and Tim Streams (of Joy) took a team of eight teens from the US and Canada on an overseas missionary trip to India. Following are firsthand accounts taken from Tim and the teens' travel journals while on their 30-day trip.
Tim Streams (of Joy, VSs in the Western US): [Note: Tim was our guide on the Just Go! - In '98 teen trip to India.]
Joy and I lived in India for about a dozen years, but that was nearly nine years ago! Going back to India on this one-month tour with eight teens was a very special dream come true. We've always had it in our hearts to return someday, so this was a golden opportunity for me to see how India has changed, and whether we would still love and enjoy life there with our children when we return someday.
This was the land where Joy and I got saved and joined the Family, and began raising our kids. I had always wondered if the love I had in my heart for India was just "of me," or was this the Lord's love? Was it just nostalgia, or really being "married to a field" like the Lord says in prophecy? The moment I stepped off the plane in India, I knew it was the Lord's deep love He put in my heart for this special, wonderful and mysterious land!
Since Rajiv Gandhi's death, multinational companies have been allowed in, and many Western-type appliances are now available. This means that these items that are useful to the public can be of good quality and available to make life easier and more efficient. TV has also become modernized with access to Western programs via satellite. Sad to say, although the cord is shortened as far as knowing what is going on around the rest of the world, it also means a lot of Western garbage is getting sucked up by the people of India. The wealthy youth are separating themselves from the Indian traditions.
Nevertheless, India is still basically the same, with its masses of people living like they have been for hundreds of years--in darkness and needing Jesus so desperately. What kept us there for many years came alive again as I could still see the sweet, humble people who have countless gods but are yet in such great need of one true God and our precious Husband and Savior, Jesus!
On this trip, the beautiful thing was seeing the Family teens being real missionaries, having fun serving the Lord. It was a great inspiration to have three teens from our team stay in India upon their request and with their parents' permission! TYJ!
Crystal (14, of Tim and Joy, California, who stayed in India when our teen team left): One thing that surprised me about India was that the standard in the Homes was as high as anywhere else I've been. They don't live in these little shacks and stuff. The rent is so cheap. The Family Homes are very hospitable. Everyone is super outgoing and goes out of their way to make you feel comfortable.
Going witnessing in India is very easy 'cause people are so sheepy and sweet. One time some of us teens went out witnessing with some teens from the Home. We went to a girls' college, and we'd just go up to the people and say, "Hi, what's your name? Do you know what Heaven is?" They'd say yes. Then we'd say, "Are you going there?" Since most people are Hindu, they'd say no. Then we'd say, "Well, you know there is this really cool thing..." and we'd tell them about Heaven and pray with them right there. We'd win a lot of souls. Before we knew it, we had huge crowds of people around us wanting to pray. That day we only were out for two hours, and we won 100 souls!
When I first went to India I was thinking, "Oh great, all the teens here are going to be living in the '70s or something--like way behind in the way they dress and act and do stuff." But actually they dress the same as the teens in the West, except that you can't wear shorts or short tops when going out on the streets. But in the Home, you can wear basically whatever you like. The Family teens are super sweet, and lots of them have been living there for a lot of their life. They are super dedicated.
Transport here is totally different. In the West you have all these cars basically going the same speed and staying pretty much in their own lanes. In India you have buses that are so packed--with about 500 people in one bus--and you are all standing up barely holding on to something. Every time the bus sways you crash into the people all around you.
They have these little auto rickshaws which are like little tricycles with a motor and a little cover over them; they go so slow and make a lot of noise. They have bicycles pulling carts which you ride in; they have ox carts, horse carts, camel carts and elephant carts. There are all these old, old cars, and also there are cows all over the road. And you can't move the cow out of the way, 'cause it's holy. There are dogs everywhere. They have these little motor scooters, and they stick a whole family of five on it, and stuff. It's quite funny.
We got to see the Indian Parliament building, which was very interesting. It's in pretty bad shape 'cause they are so poor there and they don't want to waste their money on their big government buildings like the West does. They gave us a whole tour of the Parliament building and a super good lunch.
There are so many Indian people, yet so few Family members and so much to do here. I decided to stay here and help out the Delhi Home for a few months. Even if you can't come, you can help make it possible for someone else by sending donations--even small gifts go a long way here.
Angelo (14, of Ado and Kanah, California): When we arrived in India, we rode from the airport in the Home's small van and a taxi. It was a shock, as the driving was so crazy. Everybody honked their horns all the time; it seemed like their horns were jammed. Our taxi driver didn't even look when crossing to another lane or turning--it was very different.
I'll move on to a subject that is important to many people (especially teen boys)--FOOD. The food here is spicy, sweet and sour, and bitter--a variety--it all depends on what you want to eat. One of the main dishes here is dahl (lentils) and rice. Everybody cooks their dahl differently, so you can get different styles. If you eat meat, you have a choice between eating water buffalo (almost like beef), chicken (which is expensive), or mutton, which is reasonably priced. The food here is easy to get used to because a lot of it tastes real good. Most of the Homes told us that nearly all of their food is provisioned, including so much meat that at evening meals we could eat all we wanted.
Lydia (14, of Eman and Meek, Washington, who stayed in India when our team left): I really like the ministries they have in India, which include CTPs to schools for the poor, shows for the handicapped, the retarded and deaf. It touched me to see how they react to the Family. I like how the Family is helping them and not just talking about it. They really live up to what they are talking about.
It's really fun to see all sorts of animals just roaming around on the streets here: pigs, camels, warthogs, dogs, elephants, boars, cows, monkeys, goats, buffalo, sheep, horses, mules, chickens and cats! They roam around like the streets are a big farm! It's sad to see how many beggars there are roaming the streets as well. There are people with missing legs and other injuries everywhere. It's heartbreaking. I think that's one of the things that made me want to stay here and help. I always wanted to come to India, but I didn't realize it would be like this. The people here really want our help.
Sam (14, of Patrick and Christina, Oregon): On March 13, the Indian people have a festival that they call "Holi" day. People walk around on the street with small bags of paint and water balloons filled with water paint that they throw at you. This is actually a Hindi holy day, so you must accept the paint that is thrown at you. It is in celebration of spring. I read in the local newspaper that they can actually hit with amazing accuracy. Walking down the street I had to occasionally dodge the flying balloons. (This paint will stain.) It took me about a week to get it off my skin after some different colors were rubbed into my forehead.
Michael (14, of Andrew and Lily, Arizona): We went to see a Persian carpet factory, and we saw how they made carpets. They make them all by hand. First they take the wool and weave a design. Then they wash it. It may take weeks to completely finish a carpet. Some carpets have 400 knots every square inch. They had all different sized carpets. They rolled out a big carpet in front of us; it was silk with gold-plated thread. They were selling it for $12,000! We were told that the women don't get paid as much as the men, even if they do the same amount of work.
We saw seven Family Homes here in India. We traveled from Delhi to Bombay, Bangalore and Hyderabad before returning to Delhi. We participated in or observed seven CTP projects during our visit to these Homes.
Micah (15, of Thad and Serenity, Washington): Everything in India is real cheap. There are different ways to travel by train in India, depending on what price you want to pay. We traveled second class, non air-conditioned; the train had fold-up bunks. While on the train we were approached by all sorts of beggars wanting money. In India they think all people from the West are rich men. They most commonly sweep the floor, then ask you for money. Vendors would also approach you, selling all sorts of foods and drinks. When you get off the train you'd be smart to shower, in order to get the soot and dust off you!
Mari (17, of Ado and Kanah, California): After just one week, I was convinced that India was definitely the place to be--at least for me. Three more weeks of being there only confirmed my initial reaction. And yes, as soon as I can, I hope to go back. If you were to ask me what it was that I liked best or what in the world could be drawing me back to India--a country with a billion people (I'll have you know I tend to shy away from crowds of more than like five people) and a cleanliness standard not exceptionally high (I'm a little picky along those lines), and a variety of animals all over the place (that part was okay with me, except for the warthogs and huge boars) I would be a bit stumped for an answer.
I feel (oops, we're not supposed to go by feelings!) justified in saying that in general the people in India are some of the nicest, sweetest, most receptive people I've ever, ever met (and I have met lots of people). I didn't experience a culture shock, because being in the Family and traveling to so many different countries gives us a broader outlook on life, whereas non-Family young people who have lived in the States all their lives have nothing to compare with except the "wonderful" West.
Before I left on the trip to India, I had heard so many "black picture" stories of all the horrible and scary things about India, so I had prepared myself for the worst. After spending a few days there I realized, "Hey, this isn't half as bad as I expected, so what was it that I was all concerned about?" As a matter of fact, we had some very enjoyable experiences there. Some um interesting ones, too.
One of our main means of transport while there was train, which in total came out to 105 hours of travel covering over 3,500 miles. Besides visiting the Family Homes, going out witnessing, participating in the Homes' CTP projects, and doing a bit of sightseeing, the rest of our time was spent riding the infamous Indian trains.
To see the way that some of the Indian people lived was heart-wrenching. During CTPs, we were asked by the teachers to be present during the inauguration of two different schools for slum kids. Most everyone in India speaks English, except for the extremely poor folks. Even though we weren't really able to verbally communicate with some of these poor slum folks, a smile is the same in every language. They appreciated us taking time to come visit them. If you feel that personal witnessing to "hungry sheep" is a cool way to witness, India is the place to go.
Asaph (17, of Peter and Mesha, Canada, who stayed in India when the team left): Our stay at each Home was fantastic. A big "thank you" to the Delhi Homes, as well as the Mumbai (Bombay), Bangalore and Hyderabad Homes for their extreme hospitality and help toward making our trip fun. Our first destination from Delhi was Mumbai (Bombay) where Luke, Joy and Crystal, Daniel and Dora graciously took us in. We had a few high-action days there where we visited another Home and joined in on a CTP project.
Then on to Bangalore, where there are six Homes--and I don't mean fuddy-duddy Homes! Bangalore is a place with action! The two Homes we saw were packed with teens and YAs, show groups, bands and a lot of CTP projects.
For you folks who want a higher level of service for the Lord, India is the place (otherwise you can just come for the high level of energy that's here). A Home has invited me to stay, and I am staying until my visa expires in six months. All of the Homes want more teens to come (especially guys, I understand). The need is so intense here that there will never be a dull moment.
Lisa (16, of Dan and Abi, Delhi): [Note: We landed at her Home in Delhi, and then she joined our teen team as we traveled around India.]
One thing that I've noticed is the responsibility that the teens here have. Even 14-, 15- or 16-year-olds lead meetings, inspiration for the Homes, or city fellowships; they lead witnessing teams, talk to visitors, and have ministries in the Homes. The need is so great and the laborers so few that they learn to be responsible. If you feel unused or bored, come to India--a land of 1 billion people! There's so much to do and we need you!
When I first came here I thought to myself: Maybe--just maybe--I'll stay for a year. I've been here for two years, and I don't want to leave! There is tons to do here: endless CTP projects, school seminars, youth outreach, and disciples to be won. It's so exciting! Maybe you've seen pictures or video clips and thought, Look at those costumes they have to wear! or They can't wear shorts and short skirts outside the Homes, poor folks. But those are just a few small sacrifices that we make for the sake of being a witness.
fruitful fields
India - (From ASCRO:) Most people's heart's desire is to be on a truly needy mission field, where the harvest is white, ripe and ready and the laborers are all too few--so if that's you, why not try India? With a population of almost 1 billion people and only 30 Homes, India is waiting for you! Many have already answered the call and are on their way, which we and the Family in India are so excited about. The job at hand is enormous!
We're sure there are many more missionaries who are thinking and praying about coming India-ward, and may soon apply for clearance.--Which is what we want to talk about here. Everyone is interested in shortcuts or ways to make it easier to get where they're going, so we thought we could offer a few tips which may help you in your planning and preparations for such a major move.
Tip #1: If you're considering applying for clearance to India and would like to hear the final "green light" on your clearance as soon as possible (besides, of course, the initial receipt of your clearance), be sure to send an evaluation from your Home teamwork along with your clearance request. As soon as we receive the evaluations, we then begin processing the request. Sending that evaluation with your clearance form saves a number of messages and sometimes weeks or even months of delay.
Tip #2: If you're a large family, you'd probably want to look into long-term visa possibilities, as if you go in on a tourist visa you have to leave the country after only six months! Business or student visas are very possible to get if you apply from your home country. These take time and quite a bit of work (along with communications with your prospective Home in India, who may need to assist you), so planning in advance and leaving ample time to get this sorted out saves time and expense in the long run. Once in India, you'll need to plan on investing a bit of time in keeping your business or student visa credible--such as (if you're on a student visa) attending some kind of a course, or (if you're on a business visa) doing something within the framework of whatever your business visa indicates, in order for these to be honored in India.
Tip #3: If you're single and want to stay in India for longer than six months, try looking into the one-year student visa possibilities. (What you would be expected to study varies according to the "class" you signed up for--i.e., studying Hindi, flower arranging, or other classes available in the school you've selected.)
Tip #4: If you prefer to just come on a six-month tourist visa, be prepared to either return to your former field or take a visa trip to a neighboring country (i.e., Nepal or Pakistan) once your six months are up--where you may or may not get another six-month visa for India. Visa trips are not cheap, so you should probably bring enough extra funds to cover the cost to and from either Pakistan or Nepal, from whatever Home you receive clearance to. Please communicate with whatever Home you receive clearance to for further details.
Tip #5: It's good to come with a round-trip ticket, whether you're single or a large family. It is definitely helpful, should your visa extension not come through for some reason or other (which has happened on occasion--please see point two regarding your visa type).
Tip #6: Last but by no means least, the preparation of the heart and mind is very important. Dad and Mama have taught us so much through the years about the importance of becoming one in order to be a true missionary who can reach and relate to the sheep they are trying to win. Being in India is different from anything you could experience in most Western countries and even other mission fields, so often it's quite an adjustment, not only of appearance, but even of mindset, learning to relate to a totally new and foreign culture and frame of mind--and more!
India is officially a non-Christian, Hindu country. Though India has become more Westernized in the larger cities, some things have not changed for hundreds of years in certain areas. Its religion and culture is quite conservative, something that will take getting used to in order to be fruitful. Everything that Dad has ever said about becoming one and loving those that we are witnessing to, being willing to become all things to all men that we may win some, certainly applies to India. In short, it can be a pretty sacrificial field. But hey, don't let that scare you away!--Isn't that what we joined the Family for? If your desire is to serve the Lord, give it all you've got and be a missionary in these fields; you'll make the adjustment just fine!
As for the need--how's this? There are cities of millions in India with only one or two Homes--or with NO Homes! Disciples are being won all the time; it's as if there's a whole new generation of young people waiting to be reached and won to the Family. It's a witnesser's paradise, that's for sure, and you'll hardly find a sheepier, friendlier and more receptive people! So what are you waiting for?! We love you!
grapes of thankfulness
A big thank-you to Mark 16:15 in the US for helping our work. Your donation was safely received and much appreciated.
-Peter and Joy, South Africa
We wanted to thank S&P and J&M's Home for sharing their provisioning with our Home, as well as others. It's such a blessing when people share with others the Lord's blessings. It's a good testimony, and also helps others a lot.
-David, Ruth and Tabitha, England
We want to send a heartfelt thank-you to Paul and Clara in Ocala, Florida, for taking us in when we were in a fix and didn't have anywhere to go. I had just arrived from Europe and was pregnant, one week away from my due date, and in a state of emergency, looking for a place to have the baby! My husband, Andre, was still in Europe, working on obtaining his visa, so we were on our own. Sweet Paul and Clara and family didn't hesitate to take in our team of three, (including my one-year-old and Andie, my teen helper). They were a real strength and support, and have forever earned our respect and a special place in our hearts! We love you, Paul and Clara! It's people like you who make up this beautiful body of believers that we can proudly call the Family!
-Celine, USA
your views on issues
About loneliness
France
(From a male FGA:) Before I joined the Family, I was married for seven years, and was used to having affection and regular sex. I can feel for the ones not having a partner, or the ones who once had a mate but now have none, for whatever reason.
When I joined the Family, it was taboo to get too affectionate with the opposite sex. For me it was a big trial not being able to share, but I accepted the rule and for two and a half years I concentrated my love and energy on ministering to the sheep. Around one year after I joined, the Poorboy Club vision and the letters "Sex Works" and "Lovelight" came out. We were then able to show a little affection to the girls on the dance floor, but no kissing nor sex.
All our love energy was put into use in the clubs. Many boys and girls joined and later became our husbands or wives. I had to temporarily forsake even the thought of ever seeing one sheep I liked to be with, but a year later the Lord gave her back to me and we got married. I was 28; she was 18. We now have seven children, and have been married for 22 years.
The ideal would maybe be to find someone already in the Family with years of training, but if there are not enough to choose from, how about trying the sheep [winning some more disciples]? You might be surprised to find the Prince Charming or the Queen of your life out there, just waiting for you to bid them in. Besides increasing the Family population, it would also give you someone to train. Have you noticed how much we shape up in the spirit when a new sheep is around?
Judging other Homes
Location unknown
(From Charles and Katie:) Everyone has to admit that their Homes are not perfect, their kids are not perfect; their teens are, well, teens! And you are most definitely not even close to being perfect, right? So I'm wondering why there is so much judging of other Homes. I've noticed that in the Homes I've been in, they talk bad about the other Home's way of doing things, their standards, the behavior of their teens--everything.
Then I happen to move to that Home, and they too think they are perfect and that the other Home is much too stuck on rules and regulations, etc. It's always bothered me. If it's supposed to be a new day of going by your own faith, then it's not the place for others to say what is "good faith" or what is "not faith." If we really are a Family of love, why don't we love each other?--At least just a little more.--And that includes behind each others' backs, as well.
More thoughts on "Eat Right"
USA
(From an adult:) Eating right is a big topic which I have felt burdened about. I am very happy that this subject has come up, and that Dad is addressing it head-on in the new Letter, "Eat Right" (ML #3180, GN 784). There are several other issues to consider regarding food, some of which the Charter touches on ("Food and Drink Rules," 6B, pages 125-126). This Letter deals mainly with sugary foods; however, another point that could be raised is food additives, which comes up with many pre-prepared foods for microwaving (frozen dinners, pot pies, etc.), plus some "fat-free" foods.
People concerned about their health, especially their weight, are prone to fall prey to another type of unhealthy food intake: Sweetened foods which are labeled "lite" or "sugar free" often have the saccharin substitute Aspartame (saccharin has been proven to be unhealthy), which some in the medical profession have determined is very unhealthy and can cause a number of uncomfortable symptoms.
"Fat-free" and other processed foods often use artificial ingredients. Not all "fat-free" foods are unhealthy, but people should be concerned with looking at the ingredients (if the product has this information on the label), and not so much the calorie information. "Low in cholesterol" may also mean "low in food value"--so check the ingredients. The flavor-enhancer MSG is also to be avoided.
Daddies/husbands needed
Location unknown
(From an SGA woman:) I got pregnant awhile ago and I'm just about to have a baby. I'm single. I have to confess, though, that when I had the idea to just go ahead and have a baby even though I'm not married, I thought that it wouldn't be too hard to find a husband in the not-too-distant future.
Since then my eyes have been opened to an attitude that I've been hearing a lot about in the Family, that's really breaking my heart. It seems that our young men, especially YAs and SGAs, have this attitude that "being single is the way to go." I know some guys that have had three or four kids with different girls and they're proud of it! They not only are proud of it, but go around telling other guys that it's cool, and that it's not cool to be married, and that being single is the thing to do. I even heard about one guy who got a girl pregnant and then said he loves her but doesn't wanna marry her because he wants to be single!
I think that once the guys reach SGA age, they should have had their fun and be thinking about settling down. What about the single YA moms in the Family who are looking for husbands? What about the children that need fathers? Wouldn't it be more Christlike to be trying to be a blessing to someone instead of just living a selfish life, having dates with girls everywhere with no intention of settling down and being a blessing to anyone?
I firmly believe that the Law of Love is true and a wonderful thing, but I've been hurt recently by this attitude and now feel like there's no hope for marriage or settling down for people like me. I feel that if maybe these guys didn't have this attitude then some of us lonely ladies would have more hope of settling down and finding a father for our children.
Don't stay quiet
Italy
(From Juan [of Letizia]:) Nowadays, you hear foul language anywhere, everywhere, and I am finding out that it just doesn't pay to stay quiet about it.
Once while visiting a friend of Letizia's mother, who was in the hospital for severe depression, she was using all kinds of bad words as adjectives and adverbs when referring to her husband, neighbors, nurses, etc. When I asked her to please stop that way of expressing herself, there was a great silence in the room where we were gathered. There wasn't an acknowledgment of my plea, neither in words nor by look, but the foul language was corrected at once. Later on she asked to be forgiven for it.
On our way home, as we were visiting our relatives for Christmas, I shared with our relatives that we should try our best not to allow that kind of language, as it doesn't glorify God, nor does it edify anyone. They were thankful for the lesson.
support-a-missionary
(From Madras Deaf Home:) We are Simon and Sunny--training two new Deaf CM Disciples and 150 more Deaf catacombers and outside witnessers! Can you help us? We need monthly support, as our Home is very new. Write today! Add: S. Chakravarthy, C.D.F.C., Reliance Chambers, W - 120, 3rd Ave., Annanagar, Madras - 600 040, India.
Paul (Marco) and Crystal (Mary) with our six children are planning to pioneer a new Home in Indonesia. We've been in the East for the last 18 years, and have little home support. Due to the economic crash, it's difficult for us to raise needed funds. We need your help. Please send gifts via ASCRO to Paul and Crystal (IN06). Add: PO Box 98 CPA 15401 Ciputat - Indonesia. E-mail: smilazzo@yahoo.com.
One couple, two single mommies, five teens and all our kiddies need your prayers and support to reach the multitude of sheep here while there is still time. Please send any gifts to IA50, Bangalore, India.--James, Charity, Jewel and Victory
ws news
FC
(From Sharon:) Coming your way is a special issue mag for kids on Russia; several new HTKs and MLKs; more Memory Book Games; and a NEW Kids Endtime Mag featuring END articles, currents and Grandpa's viewpoints on these issues!
Love Lines #3 Available
(From the Grapevine editors:) The third edition of Love Lines has been compiled. We have already sent each participating member a copy of Love Lines #3 (via e-mail or snail mail, as per the address you sent in), as well as to those who specifically requested a copy. If you requested a copy via e-mail, you should have received it by now. If you haven't, please send us an e-mail, requesting a resend. Three or four of the e-mail addresses we were given say they have been changed or no longer exist! If you sent a postal address and you don't receive your Love Lines issue within the next two-three weeks, please also resend your request. It's most helpful if you can send an e-mail address, or ask if you can borrow the e-mail address of your neighboring Home.
All those who send in ads are automatically put on the Love Lines mailing list, so if you submitted an ad for publishing in the Love Lines bulletin and do not receive a copy of the Love Lines listing for those of the opposite sex, please be sure to resend your ad contribution. We may have missed receiving your message somehow!
Members' Only Family web site
--www.familymembers.com
July UserID: july
July Password: notebook.keyboard
thanking
--for your spirit story contributions
Peter (10) and John Parman (12, Sweden), Angelina (11, India), Ruth (of Ho, China) and Lily (England).
now that's funny!
Why a Ship Is a She
A ship is called a "she" because there is always a great deal of bustle around her; there is usually a gang of men about, and she has a "waist" that stays. It takes a lot of paint to keep her good-looking; it is not the initial expense that breaks you, it's the upkeep. She can be all decked out; it takes an experienced man to handle her correctly, and without a man at the helm, she is absolutely uncontrollable. She shows her top sides, hides her bottom, and when coming into port always heads for the buoys!!
--courtesy of Mary SGA, Mideast
Included with this file:
--cute kids (peanuts 'n' raisins)
Caption 1. Who are the leaders of The Family?
Caption 2. Mama and Peepers!!
(During devotions with YCs) Courtesy of Mike P., ASCRO
--peculiar people
Caption 1. Love the sinner hate the sin
Caption 2. Uh oh
March '98 Stats
TEAMWORK
Per Adult
Total
SOUL SHINERS FOR MARCH '98
Samuel/Rosita, Mexico
3,000
6,000
Madras Deaf Home, India
488
2,438
Ezequiel/Rejoice/Jonathan, Brazil
350
1,400
Timothy F./Rejoice E./Dove F., USA
343
2,058
Pablo E., Chile
261
784
James/Ruth/Ruthie/Timothy, Ukraine
220
2,429
Steven, Claire, Daniel, Crystal, India
162
812
Paul N./Ruth S./Bozrah, USA
155
620
Francisco/Mariana, Colombia
150
300
Andrew/Miracle/Angelina/Crystal, Croatia
144
1,011
POSTER SHINERS FOR MARCH '98
Michael/Maria, Japan
2,069
4,138
Philip/Meekness, Namibia
2,000
4,000
Peter S./Crystal S./Mary M., USA
1,895
7,582
Nadia P./David/Clarie/Titus/Timothy, USA
1,279
10,234
Steven/Mercy, Japan
1,000
3,000
Francis/Joanna R./Jenny/Andrew, USA
879
7,917
Timothy F./Rejoice E./Dove F., USA
817
4,903
Eric/Ester/Meek, USA
759
1,518
Andrew/Ruth, Japan
750
1,500
Jose/Priscilla, Mexico
750
1,500
TAPE SHINERS FOR MARCH '98
Dave/Jan/Rosemarie, Czech Republic
128
902
Pablo E., Chile
111
333
Joao/Ana Amador, Portugal
105
211
Tim/Claire/Stefan/Joy, Switzerland
95
382
Isaias/Joan/Mike, Chile
71
214
Pablo/Cielo, Brazil
65
130
Esperanza/Vicky, Chile
57
173
Andrew G./Crystal/Angela Dr/Maureen, USA
56
337
Adino/Joanna, Brazil
55
110
Gideon/Ruthie, Italy
54
109
VIDEO SHINERS FOR MARCH '98
Jose/Ester, Colombia
47
95
David/Esperanza/Santiago, Peru
44
176
Jonas/Lisa, Sweden
43
86
Ezequiel/Esther, Brazil
34
69
Emanuel/Rubi, Ecuador
33
67
Pablo/Cielo, Brazil
32
65
David/Peace, Germany
30
153
Marcos/Joyful, Brazil
28
84
Abner/Esther/Andrew/Katie, South Africa
27
110
Gideon/Ruthie, Italy
25
51
FREE POSTER SHINERS FOR MARCH '98 - Just for fun!
Josh/Vera/Daniel/Joan, Russia
3,750
15,000
Jonas/Ania/Ivan/Dove, Russia
3,286
13,147
Michael/Catrina/Charity, Latvia
2,366
7,100
Luke/Mercy/Abigail, Russia
1,500
9,000
Davida/Brunheld/Daniel, Moldava
800
5,600
Andrew/Dust/Diamond, Moldava
634
3,170
Claire/Steven/Carmen, Russia
622
3,110
John/Faith/Jahmai, Poland
620
3,100
Tim/Joy/Summer, Ukraine
612
4,288
John/Mercy/Vicky/David/Armendria, Estonia
562
4,500
April '98 Stats
TEAMWORK
Per Adult
Total
SOUL SHINERS FOR APRIL '98
Samuel/Rosita, Mexico
3,500
7,000
Juan/Sara Pescador, Venezuela
1,000
4,000
Magadalena/Samuel M./Pedro A., Mexico
849
5,945
Ezequiel/Rejoice/Jonathan, Brazil
833
2,500
Samuel/Keren, Brazil
750
1,500
Timothy F./Rejoice E./Dove F., USA
504
3,531
Madras Deaf Home, India
480
2,398
Esdras/Raquel, Mexico
402
805
Pablo/Hannah, Colombia
375
750
Mateus/Lily/Paloma/Nina, Brazil
320
1,283
POSTER SHINERS FOR APRIL '98
Ben/Meekness, Botswana
5,400
10,800
Esther/Lena/Jenny, South Africa
2,500
20,000
Jonathan/Clare, Japan
2,100
8,400
Peter S./Crystal S./Mary M., USA
1,965
7,863
Michael/Maria, Japan
1,803
3,607
Abner/Promise, Japan
1,342
4,028
Timothy F./Rejoice E./Dove F., USA
1,181
8,269
Samuel/Rosita, Mexico
1,174
2,349
Sunshine/Mercy, Japan
1,000
3,000
Francis/Joanna R./Jenny/Andrew S., USA
835
7,519
TAPE SHINERS FOR APRIL '98
Pablo E., Chile
134
539
Jude/Eden/Eve, Hungary
81
409
Joao/Pandita/Obede/Clara, Brazil
74
296
Adino/Joana, Brazil
70
141
Gideon/Ruthie, Italy
70
140
Pablo/Cielo, Brazil
66
132
Tim/Claire/Stefan/Joy, Switzerland
62
250
Andrew G./Crystal/Angela Dr./Maureen, USA
61
370
John/Marianne. South Africa
60
120
David/Madalena/Andrew/Paula, Brazil
57
520
VIDEO SHINERS FOR APRIL '98
Joseph/Rosa, Chile
80
160
Ben/Meekness, Botswana
65
130
Emanuel/Rubi, Ecuador
50
152
Apolos Fighter/Maria Clara, Mexico
32
64
Jonas/Lisa, Sweden
31
63
Pablo/Cielo, Brazil
29
59
Matthew, Micah, Taiwan
27
137
David/Esperanza/Santiago, Peru
26
107
Gideon/Ruthie, Italy
26
52
Philip/Meekness, Namibia
24
48
FREE POSTER SHINERS FOR APRIL '98 - Just for fun!
Luke/Mercy/Abigail, Russia
4,083
24,500
Ben/Maggie/Ivan, Russia
2,080
8,321
Davida/Brunheld/Daniel, Moldava
2,014
14,100
Valour/Praise/Ruthie, Ukraine
1,233
11,100
Tim/Joy/Summer, Ukraine
1,145
9,165
Sandra/Richard/Joanna/Angel/Brisa, Russia
838
5,031
Paul/Ruthie/Timothy/Praise, Russia
562
2,250
Nat/Reina/Claire/Bowy, Russia
508
6,100
David/Rose/Pearl, Russia
462
3,700
Michael/Catrina/Charity, Latvia
440
2,200
[End]
Copyright (c) 1998 by The Family