JETT/Teen

Public Relations

Visitation and Shepherding

CM/FM 12/02

JETT/TEEN PILLAR

AFRICA

Compiled by Phoebe, regional JT chairperson

How things work in our region

The distances to travel are vast‚ and our JETTs and teens are mostly situated in Homes far apart. E-mail and communications are unreliable and visas and transportation are expensive. But the Lord has seen us through every step of the way, and thankfully every obstacle was overcome. Here are the highlights from our national boards:

Southern Africa national JT board

We organized a mini camp for the OCs, JETTs, and teens in the Johannesburg area—all 15 attended. We had a games night, united video, big inspiration with a live band, skits, Bible class, ice skating, barbeque, swimming, and a soccer match. We are having another fellowship soon where we will go camping at a game reserve.

In Cape Town the national board members got together with the JETTs and teens to play football, go swimming, have snack‚ and spend some time getting to know each other.

The CP board hosted a mini camp for the OCs, JETTs and junior teens in the Cape Town area. Our Homes and board members are far away from each other, and traveling is not always easy. We've worked it out that when possible the CP board includes the JETTs and juniors in mini camps with their OCs, and we include the OCs in our fellowships. This has worked well and had made it "happen" more often.

Other achievements and activities include:

*Word advisory sent to all Homes on devotional ideas for JETTs and teens.

*Four JT newsletters sent to the JETTs and teens called JungleChat.com. This is a compilation of testimonies from the JTs in our area and testimonies of the JT fellowships that we have held.

*JETT/teen info pack sent to the parents‚ containing relevant information about JETT and teen Charter and Word guidelines.

*Sent out two prayer lists to the parents, focusing on the needs of the JETTs and teens.

*Compiling an info pack on education, especially GCSE and GED info for our JETTs' and teens' education.

West Africa national JT board

West Africa is a field with a mixture of endless possibilities and great challenges! The Homes are scattered throughout quite a few countries, with large distances to cover. We have initiated a monthly bulletin/magazine for West Africa in order to bring our JETTs and teens closer together and to unify us as an area. This bulletin is still in its infant stages, but we have a couple of issues out already, full of testimonies, stories and photos from our very own young people.

Establishing strong lines of communication will be a key factor for our future progress as a board and area‚ so we are dedicating ourselves to be faithful correspondents, never more than an e-mail away!

We are striving to make full use of the power of the keys by making our daily prayer vigils a very serious force against the Enemy's attacks.

East Africa national JT board highlights

Because of the unique constraints of visa and travel costs from one field to another, we haven't yet had any get-togethers. Our focus has been on getting to know the young people in our area. Brian and Robin visited the Homes, spending time getting to know the young people‚ hearing from and establishing a connection with them.

The Lord showed us to communicate with the parents in our area, to ask for their input and prayer requests for the JETTs and teens, and we have committed to praying for them.

We started a newsletter from and about young people in our area. We have been receiving a number of contributions of art, photos, testimonies, etc. This newsletter is helping the JETTs and teens to get to know others of their own age—something that's a real benefit in our mostly isolated situations.

Our biggest prayer is for the Lord to miraculously supply the funds we need for gathering our teams together. We have several potential places we could bring a group of JETTs and teens to. There is a great deal of inspiration in witnessing here and there are plenty of challenges, but the thing that's a little less common is fellowship. This is where the board, D.V., will be a key in helping that come to pass.

BRAZIL

Compiled by Jonathan, regional JT chairperson

Our board members divided into three groups, with each group focusing on one of the age groups—JETTs, juniors, and seniors, thus enabling each person to channel their talents to their target age group. Each group has from three to five people working together with them.

São Paulo/South national board, by Alfredo, Celeste‚ Charity, and Michael

We realized that in order to accomplish anything with the young people, and have their cooperation, we needed bellwethers who would help create positive peer pressure. We have one of the largest concentrations of JETTs and teens in the south, therefore the need for on-fire and dedicated bellwethers was imperative.

*We've held several fellowships for all 12-17-year-olds in the area. Included in the activities were horseback riding, a dance‚ movie, memory contest (the winner took home a prize), and other fun.

*We've tried to have two activities per month for our junior teens. Our focus has been to provide fellowship, fun activities, inspiring and motivational Word times‚ as well as get to know them better‚ open the channels of communication, and get the ideas flowing.

*We started having a one-day monthly activity for senior teens in which we would have get-out, Word class and other Word-related activities, memory projects, and games.

*A discipleship-training course started with Family teens and young sheep‚ after two Homes started a youth Bible study that literally exploded with new disciples and Active members.

*Organizing a CVC seminar to promote the CVC amongst the teens and JETTs.

Rio/North national board, by Phil

The Lord showed us to establish strong bases in Rio and in Salvador—the two main population centers of young people in the north of Brazil—and from there, to service the smaller surrounding cities. Because distances in Brazil are so vast, a goal for 2003 is to create a Web site, so that distant Homes with only a few teens can pick up the classes and programs and virtually do the same thing. We in Rio are in close communication with Salvador; we pass on to them by e-mail all the programs we do here, and we run simultaneous program schedules.

*We have activities with the JETTs every two weeks‚ where they come over and spend the day with us. They have a Word class, sports, activities‚ games, homework, etc. During these programs we have special time to talk with the majority of the young people, to get closer to them and get to know them better.

*We have focused on the junior teens' W&R, offering them fellowship and fun, and not only a weekly Bible class. Once a week we spend a day together, having activities, recreation and sports, Word, and lots of fellowship. (These activities are also open for senior teens who want to participate.) The Lord showed us to focus on the basic Letters with them.

*The senior teen course (open to YAs as well) is a weekly evening meeting. The program goal was to create a hot‚ on-fire, close-knit discipleship group of seniors and YAs composed of only those who really commit themselves to making progress and living the discipleship standard of the Word. Another goal of this program is that after two three-month courses, these young people would become the labor pool for the bellwether program.

*With both juniors and seniors, we held several nighttime beach personal witnessing outings. A few times we gave a class on personal witnessing before going ("4 Steps/7 Proofs" [ML #527]; "Wonder Working Witnessing," etc.), and then would go out and let them burn free.

EASTEURASIA

Compiled by Stephen‚ regional JT chairperson

AMBER JT national board

In August we held a summer camp in Romania on the Black Sea called the JT "CUP2002" (Camp for Upcoming Professionals). In light of "The Professionals" GN we wanted to emphasize what being in the Family is all about: witnessing! We had one week of classes‚ quizzes, swimming and witnessing with the junior/senior teens, and a second week for the JETTs and junior teens.

After enjoying an outing at a provisioned amusement park and bowling alley, all were ready to head to the beach for evening witnessing. Afterward some of the most notable comments were: "I haven't witnessed like this in five years!" "I haven't ever gotten to do this!" "I hope I can do this at home too!" "Let's go again tomorrow!" Now that we are all inspired about personal witnessing, we hope to have more united witnessing adventures.

B2B JT national board highlights

During the last two weeks of August, we held a two-week JT witnessing camp for the B2B area in the Rijeka Home, located on the beautiful Croatian coast. We divided into two sessions with a total of 28 attendees. Most Home members hit the road for those two weeks so that we could hold the camp in the Home itself. The idea was to have a camp on a smaller level, getting to know one another more personally, meanwhile encouraging the attendees that they could do the same at their own Home.

We had daily classes covering the Endtime, how to teach the 12 Foundation Stones and more, get-out, personal witnessing‚ and of course, lots of fun! We went on a day trip near the Bosnian border and got a chance to visit the former war zone firsthand, visit a refugee camp, and get two families activated. Meanwhile, back at the Home, life continued as normal—sheep came over (some rather unexpectedly), plus some attendees participated in giving one of the 12 Foundation Stones classes to a couple of our Active members.

INDIA

Compiled by Mark, regional JT chairperson

Interview with the board

Hi! My name is Jeremiah Tell it on the Big Mountain (long for JT board member). Well, being our first year on the job, we hopefully learned a lot. Each national board was getting to know their team and the teens, getting direction from the Lord and counsel as far as goals for our board‚ focusing mainly on the JETTs and teens, but also working with the parents. In order to really give you a clear, honest picture of what exactly our board has done this past year, we felt we would have to ask the teens themselves.

JTBM: Here is a teen. Hi, Noah (short for No One)! How have things been for you since the JT board came into place? Has anything changed for you?

Noah: Yeah! Of course! My JETT brother attended a three-day camp and 43 of us junior teens also got to go to a three-day camp this year. We had some far-out classes on the Endtime and current events, persecution‚ and witnessing. We had Word quizzes, and our destiny redefined! I heard that the JETTs in the south had their classes in camping surroundings‚ with a swimming pool and all. Some other teens had a get-together on the beach in Goa!

Teen Amos (short for anonymous): I've been really excited with all the opportunities that I am getting with the CVC courses that I'm taking. About 10 of us teens got a Bible Knowledge certificate a while ago, and now I am working on two others—Photography and Home Safety/First Aid.

JTBM: Yes, there are six courses going on right now. They involve about 26 junior and senior teens, who work with the city course supervisors. This is a project that, together with the FED board, we hope to expand next year.

Noah: The young people throughout India have regular weekly classes. We have watched the "Codebreakers" videos, had witnessing classes, public speaking classes, gone through the 12 Foundation Stones, current events, and lots more.

Amos: I have always wanted to do more witnessing, and that's one thing that the boards have really helped me with. The board organized a road trip that I went on with seven other junior teens to a seaport city called Mangalore, and they have been organizing united witnessing in some of the bigger cities.

JTBM: Thanks‚ guys! You sure sound busy, not much time for things like feeling bored, movies …

Amos: Speaking of movies, that movie booklet was a great idea! It used to take us an hour in the local video shop just to find a movie that we hadn't seen that our parents knew was rated for us. Thanks so much for that updated rated movie booklet!

Teen Joan (short for Unknown): Hey, guys! Are you coming for the organized weekly soccer match? We're all waiting in the car!

Amos and Noah in unison: Yeah, we're coming! Sorry, gotta go! Bye!

JTBM: Bye! Thanks so much. Okay, let's look at a few testimonies from the national boards.

In the south, they put together a public speaking course. It's aimed to help the young people feel more comfortable to speak publicly and articulate their words, express an opinion or a point; basically helping them to be better witnesses. This was well documented and is now a course available for other areas to use.

In the north, they started a bimonthly teen newsletter including testimonies‚ pictures, etc.

A team from the JT boards worked on putting together a Sex Ed course called the "X" Foundation. It includes five booklets for the teens covering aspects of sex education (Biblical, Physical, The Family, Health and Hygiene, and Feeling and the Facts). There is also a booklet for parents.

We have organized a few parenting/shepherding meetings. This has been fruitful and nice to help the parents get to know us board members, and also to talk about and evaluate the board activities. They have also been a wonderful forum for praying together and sharing the load together of raising and discipling our wonderful JETTs and teens.

In some cities, the boards were able to organize the watching of Mama and Peter's videos together for the JETTs and junior teens‚ which was helpful as it gave a floor for feedback and discussion.

And that's about it! Okay, gotta go now‚ as some teens need me to drive them to their youth Active member meeting.

Jeremiah hums as he drives off: "Gooo tell it on the…"

JAPAN

Compiled by Crystal, regional JT chairperson

What an exciting nine months it has been since the boards went into effect. All the boards in Japan have been very active.

The Lord helped the JT board in Japan hold five meeting/camps over the past nine months. We've also organized other initiatives in areas with less young people. Between the east and west JT boards we have held two senior teen meetings, two junior teen meetings, and one JETT camp.

The boards have been meeting and communicating regularly‚ counseling about ways to help inspire and challenge the young people in their witnessing in Japan.

The Lord has raised up some excellent SGAs, FGAs, and senior teens who have answered the call to help us organize camps and follow up on the teens. They are a great blessing in helping to shepherd them.

MEXICO

Compiled by Miguel‚ regional JT chairperson

North Mexico JT national board

One of the highlights of this last year was that the adults, SGAs, and YAs from six of the Homes in the Monterrey area worked together on a three-month Missionary Training Course (MTC) for all the 30 OCs, JETTs, and junior teens in the area. One day a week we would all gather in one Home in the area to have Word classes‚ activities, and get–out. The Homes in the area would send a couple of adult/SGA volunteers who would teach classes or give vocational training. Each MTC day would consist of the following activities:

*United inspiration

*United memory and review games

*Word study classes (divided into groups by ages)

*Three hours of vocational courses, including singing and performing, guitar classes‚ mechanic classes, survival skills, arts and crafts, dance classes, and carpentry classes

*Personal witnessing (on one very special MTC day we collectively led over 200 souls to the Lord!)

*United games and evening activities

*Word and memory quizzes (all attendees were given homework; i.e., personal Word studies and memory work)

At the end of the three-month course, a graduation was held for all the attendees. The Lord supplied a large meeting room in a hotel for this event, and a catering service supplied all the food. He also supplied tuxedos for the boys and evening gowns for the girls. All the attendees came up by groups to receive a certificate and a silver Family symbol necklace. They also shared a presentation of what they had learned during the last three months.

It was wonderful to see the fruit of working together as an area‚ FGAs with SGAs and foreigners with nationals on this united area project.

Southern Mexico JT national board

Going personal witnessing and doing united Holy Ghost samples every two weeks at a popular hangout is one of the most outstanding activities in our area. This has become a major highlight for all the young people in the area, igniting the back-to-the-basics witnessing fire in all of us!

Every Monday night we have Bible classes for not only the junior teens from the area, but anyone who wants to be involved. These classes are called "A Call to Win!" They include a variety of inspiration, Word classes, skits, Bible verse contests—all focused on helping us to become professional soul–winners and disciple-winners.

In October a two–day fellowship was held for all the JETTs and junior teens in the Mexico City area. This fellowship included a rock'm sock'm morning inspiration, a three–hour class on our role during the Endtime (using the movie The Matrix as a springboard), fun volleyball tournaments, a hotdog roast, true–to-life stories, and gypsy dancing around a campfire, and overnight camping in tents.

Central America JT national board

The first assignment that our precious Love gave us was to organize a JETT and teen camp. The Lord gave us the theme and the classes to be taught, and everyone put their whole heart into the preparations. This turned into a one-week camp, held in July, which over 35 JETTs and teens attended. By the last few nights the inspirations were so powerful that we felt you could almost plug in and light up the whole city! What we‚ as the parents and shepherds of these young people‚ had hoped and prayed for happened. All left the camp on-fire and recommitted.

We are putting together a monthly JETT/teen magazine called "Alive."

As board members, one of the greatest changes in our lives is how the Lord seems to open our eyes more to the needs of our JETTs and teens. We feel a much greater compulsion to pray for them, to encourage them, and to be there for them. Our greatest challenge and encouragement came from the GN "Raising Junior Teen Disciples."

MIDDLE EAST

Compiled by Emmy and Serena, regional JT co-chairpersons

*Serena visited the Homes in Pakistan in June and was able to spend time with most of the JETTs and teens and get to know them personally.

*The first of a two-page monthly bulletin was put together for parents and shepherds of the JETTs and teens in our area, with tips and ideas concerning the shepherding and care of our JETTs and teens. Topics include Word time‚ discipline, memorization ideas and incentives, local language and witnessing, computers and Internet use, activity ideas, reminders of Charter requirements, tidbits‚ information as to what is available through the FED, and Word-based videos, educational CDs, etc.

*A monthly JT mag began on a national level but has now been adopted on the regional level. The JETTs and teens can contribute art, stories, testimonies, poems, jokes, etc.

*Prayer list with special prayer requests pertaining to the needs of the JETTs/teens is circulated amongst the board members

*Our regional board came up with many ideas to help spice up our devotions and Word time and are circulating these ideas to the Homes.

*We've delegated to the national boards the goal of motivating Homes to get the JETTs/teens involved in youth witnessing and outreach, more responsibility and vocational training.

*Possibility of provisioning outside classes such as music, dancing, sports, etc., encouraging the young people themselves to do the provisioning.

*Adding new features to spice up the teens' clown/puppet shows, to help them not get boring or monotonous. Clown show classes on video with Marco.

Central ME national board, by Marco

*We held a three-day camp for the JETTs and junior teens in our national area. We had very inspiring Word classes on "Conviction vs. Compromise" and "Becoming One," mingled with fun activities such as hiking and swimming.

*Our JT magazine is in its beginning stages, but we have sent out our first issue of a mag for the JETTs and teens in our region.

*An initiative to have an e-mail buddy for each of the JETTs and teens in our area that they could communicate with‚ who would also be a good influence on them and who could hopefully give them counsel or advice and just be there for them.

Pakistan national board, by Martin and Asaph

Because our Homes are very far apart‚ the vast majority of our JETTs and teens hadn't seen each other for literally years. After the board meetings, we had a JETT/teen camp in the beautiful northern area of Pakistan, with 21 JETTs and teens in attendance.

Turkey national board‚ by Dolly

A week after our board structure meetings in February, the Homes in Istanbul merged, putting half the JETT/teen population in one Home. That may sound like it should be a large group, when in fact it was only three junior teen boys. We've been able to have fun fellowship together and Word classes, working through and completing Tiago's Endtime "Codebreakers" VCDs, as well as portions of the Babes Basic reading list from the Charter.

Other things we've done:

*We began vocational training programs for the junior teens‚ such as drumming, guitar, animation shows, etc.

*We've been reading through the Letters in the "New Disciples' Priority Reading List" in the Charter several times a week.

*In our memorization push, so far they've memorized Revelation 13 and James 3. They get a little shiner money for each chapter they complete, which adds motivation.

NORTH AMERICA

Compiled by Ado, regional JT chairperson

This year was one of organization, of setting up, of establishing communications, and of studying our JT board responsibilities and how to fulfill them. The four national JT boards in the North America region looked for ways that they could serve the JETTs, teens, and their parents. The priority for each national board was to meet the JETTs and teens in their respective areas and find how we could help.

The major thrust at present for the national boards is to develop ways to provide leadership training to our JETTs and teens in the region. Our young people are advanced in so many ways and many already have the skills, talents, and ability to go far beyond what any of us have ever done. It is now up to each of us to do our part to help them become disciples and fulfill that calling in their lives.

National board victories and progress

The western national board began with several local meetings and activities introducing the JT board members to the teens and discussing possible activities and programs. The area is divided into two areas, the Pacific Northwest and Southern California‚ with JT board members in each.

Besides each of these areas holding regular get–togethers with the JETTs and teens, there was a large summer camp held for the area, with 30 teens attending. This area is striving to build a core group of JETTs and teens who want to do something for the Lord.

At the close of the year there was a teen/parent dinner at a local restaurant in the Southern California area, organized, hosted, and provisioned by JT board members.

After the summer, the national board of the central area, which includes mostly the huge state of Texas, began a push to encourage the JETTs and teens in their area to sign up for the CVC program. This helped many of the young people and their parents to focus on their educational goals for the upcoming school year.

The southeastern board jumped right into the program by hosting several JETT/teen fellowships, which included a number of parents attending these get-togethers. This not only gave the board members a chance to get to know the young people, but also provided a time for the parents to talk shop with other parents and board members.

The northeast area is quite spread out, so the NB set as one of their first goals to meet the JETTs and teens in the area. The main concentration of young people is in Eastern Canada.

PACIFIC (ACTON)

Compiled by Sweetie, regional JT chairperson

We have gifted and capable people helping on the JT boards and we're seeing lots of progress being made—all things that we COs and VSs would have never gotten around to doing before—so we are very thankful for the board vision!

Some of the highlights of our region are:

Camps

The Taiwan JT board hosted a junior camp in May 2002‚ which 31 young people (ages 12-15) attended. All the board members, several YA and SGA bellwethers, as well as at least one adult from almost every Home in Taiwan attended. (See the full testimony, with photos, in GV #136.)

The China JT board hosted a Family camp in October 2002. JETTs, junior, and senior teens from several Homes attended. This was a first for many of the young people who attended, as due to the conditions of the field they are seldom able to fellowship with each other and enjoy the open "Family" atmosphere that prevailed during our time there.

In Australia the senior teens were able to work together with the CP board to help host and organize an OC camp.

Activities

Held in Taipei, Taiwan, one evening each week is a Word or witnessing class and an activity or outside sports. During the witnessing classes the kids memorize witnessing phrases in Chinese. This is to help them be more effective personal witnessers. In two other cities in Taiwan, there have also been regular activities held for the young people.

Each city has formed their own soccer team, and so far we've had one national soccer tournament for the JETTs and teens from all over the country! They, along with their families‚ met together for an afternoon of games and fellowship. Sometimes the JT soccer teams are able to play local teams as well. These activities and sports events have been a blessing in giving the JETTs and teens things to look forward to in the way of fun activities and the fellowship they crave, as well as teaching them valuable classes.

The young people in China participated in a nationwide memory project organized by the JETT/Teen board! Prizes were awarded to those who passed their test. Several JETTs and teens received their Memory Shiner certificate at the recent camp, and the others will receive them through the mail.

Newsletters

Claire and her daughters, Heather and Olivia, pioneered Taiwan's JETT/teen newsletter, called Hotmail@you.com. Four issues have been published (with contributions from the JTs on the field).

The China JT board produced their first newsletter‚ called "Action"—a fun and inspiring newsletter. We are planning on expanding this newsletter to our entire region.

Letters‚ advisories and parenting meetings

One of the first things the Taiwan board did was to get together with the parents to talk about the young people. Besides parenting meetings, the JT board also sent out messages to the field addressing issues relating to the JETTs and teens.

Regional board meetings

Although there are many differences in each of the countries in our region, there are many similarities. We are striving to help our boards do the best job we can to help our JETTs and teens grow and be happy and enjoy their service for the Lord.

Special thanks

We'd like to give a special word of commendation and thanks to the young people on the JT boards who have taken up the torch in our area, in order to help with the "Call to the Rescue" vision. Their youthfulness‚ insight‚ enthusiasm and faith is a tremendous help, and we need more of you!

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Compiled by Ariane, regional JT chairperson

Spanning the wide region of SEA, at present there are over 103 CM and 42 FM JETTs, junior and senior teens in our region, divided up into three national areas—Thailand and the surrounding countries, the Philippines, and Indonesia. JETTs and teens make up over 20.7% of the population in our area!

Since our board covers such a wide range of ages, distance, culture, and needs, the Lord showed us to send out simple questionnaires to the parents and some of the JETTs and teens. This helped us board members get to know the JETTs and teens in our area better. It was helpful for us to see what the biggest needs and desires of the parents and Homes are, as well as the JETTs and teens themselves.

Our board has committed to being a "board of prayer." Each national area has compiled a prayer list of requests from the JETTs‚ teens, and Homes, and each board member has a copy of these prayer requests for our personal prayer vigil times.

Thailand JT national board‚ by Aaron and Joanne

We have begun sending out a bimonthly newsletter for the JETTs and teens, with contributions by the young people themselves. It's called "Look Whoz Talking." It is filled with testimonies, articles, poems, Word quizzes, and pictures.

Knowing how busy each of our Homes can be, we compiled the reading list from the Charter for all those turning senior teens for the parents and shepherds to have easy access to.

Our board has been compiling fun and new Word/Bible classes to send to the parents and shepherds every few months so that they have something ready-made to work from for inspiring and feeding JETT/teen Word classes.

Philippines JT national board, by Simon

In March two sets of meetings were held in Manila. The first, a three-day meeting with the senior teens and YAs from around the Philippines, and the second for JETTs and junior teens. Tiago gave inspiring classes on making a difference, standing out rather than always trying to be in with the crowd, and the Endtime.

In April we held a fellowship for the teens in the Manila area, at which time we went over highlights of "The Professionals" GN. Included was an overnight excursion to a small resort with swimming and united games, as well as some inspiring Word classes.

In August we held a three–day JETT/teen seminar which was attended by about 26 young people. There were rousing inspirations and skits, and classes covering topics such as forsaking all, boredom, the Devil's devices, our job, and the importance of applying ourselves to CVC‚ scholastics, and education.

In June and October we held a one-day united fellowship for all JETTs/teens in the Luzon area, with Word classes, a barbeque, united sports, united Word games, and a video.

We have initiated a soul-winning push, with actual trophies and medals being awarded on a monthly basis to the Home and individual shiners who win the most souls.

Indonesia JT national board, by Rejoice

In July we invited all of the JETTs and teens from the Jakarta area for a fun-filled weekend. The activities included Word classes based on our future, the glories and wonders of Heaven, and witnessing; skits and quizzes, and witnessing excursions where we set ourselves goals for tracts and posters distributed and souls won. The Lord provided provisioned meals, camping, hiking, swimming‚ and an excursion to some hot springs.

Our JT and CP board members combined forces to host a day of fellowship, Word, and games for the Jakarta Homes' OCs and JETTs. The focus was the Word, the theme being based around the study month GNs. We had rousing inspiration, Word classes, and Word games.

SPANISH SOUTH AMERICA

Compiled by Sam, regional JT chairperson

VEC JT national board

*A one-day seminar on the keys of the Kingdom was held in June for the young people in Bogotá.

*In July we held a three-day camp for all the young people in Venezuela. The theme was the importance of being disciples and followers.

*We had two days of meetings in September with all the young people in Ecuador to pass on the vision of giving themselves fully, 100% to the Lord as His disciples.

*In July we put together the "Radical Teens" band in Venezuela. In October we put together the "Selah" band in Ecuador.

*In October we kicked off our monthly bulletin.

*In October we put together an "action committee" for the JT board. This committee is comprised of on-fire young people who work with and are in close communication with the JT board. It's working marvelously.

*After the showings of Mama and Peter's videos, we held one-day meetings with the young people in Colombia, Venezuela and Ecuador.

*The JT board helped with a personal witnessing push over the months of July and August in both Venezuela and Colombia. This included some Holy Ghost samples where the young people witnessed as a group.

*In August we had several healing meetings which were hosted by the young people in Bogotá.

ABCP JT national board highlights

*We've held biweekly activities for both JETTs and the junior/senior teen age groups in Santiago. Among these were a number of all-day fellowships at one of our larger Homes, witnessing outings‚ several parties, a hiking excursion, a visit to an interactive science museum and a movie outing, both provisioned!

*Several seminars for the young people were held in the area. The topics addressed: follow-up, provisioning and PR‚ and for the older young people, two classes on leadership paved the way for a legal/media course presently underway. A witnessing class was given in preparation for Christmas outreach, providing instruction and techniques on a variety of witnessing activities.

*Some of the teen girls in the Santiago area are preparing to perform the Endtime street play; this has been great fun and we pray it will be a terrific motivator for witnessing.

*A group of teens regularly visit a local university and invite the youth they meet to a weekly Bible class at one of their Homes.

*Several young men are putting together a band for outreach.

*A group of young people organized a fellowship for Homes, live–outs, friends, and sheep at a large discothèque provided by a friend of the Family's.

*A highlight was the national area senior teen camp held in November. It was five days of classes, fellowship, and fun. The classes included heeding God's call in your life, an in-depth look at what great men and women of the past have had to forsake, and what forsaking means for us. A seminar on CVC was given by a member of the FED board and a motivating class by a member of the north SA JT board about carrying on the torch of the Revolution. On the last day, we participated in a wonderful seminar on healing and the keys of the Kingdom.

*Communication with the Homes has been strengthened throughout the year; thanks a ton to all who have sent in ideas, encouragement and prayer requests. Keep it coming!

WESTERN EUROPE

Compiled by Petra‚ regional JT co-chairperson

This year has been a year of pioneering our board. We've been faced with the challenge of discovering and getting to know all the JETTs and teens in our area, forming lines of communication and friendship with them‚ as well as hearing them out in open forums. The Lord has been doing wonderful things with our boards.

Witnessing

The main thing the Lord has been showing the national boards is the need for exciting witnessing to challenge the young people. The first activity we organized was a witnessing adventure at a pop festival in Switzerland toward the end of July 2002. The north and south national boards combined efforts to make this possible. It was completely by faith, and the Lord did mighty things by strengthening our faith, supplying our every need‚ giving us gorgeous weather, and witnessing opportunities previously only dreamed of by many of the JETTs and teens!

Camps

In August an official JETT/teen camp was held in Manchester, England‚ for approximately 60 attendees. This camp had a tremendous impact on many of them, who we've been able to keep in contact with and counsel since. From October 7-11 a fellowship was held in England organized by the VS board, and the JT board was able to do some follow-up with the JETTs/teens that had attended the previous JETT/teen camp.

At the end of August the southern board, working alongside the VS board, organized a JETT/teen camp at a fellowship for the Family in Spain and Portugal, held in beautiful beach bungalows in Spain. This was a very different atmosphere than the more focused camp in England, but we learned as we went along and adapted. Many of the Family there hadn't gotten together in many years, so it was a time of excitement and fellowship.

In September we participated in a fellowship held in Italy for the Family from Italy, Greece, Switzerland, and Germany. Our board held a complete JETT/teen camp alongside all the other activities! We had about 70 JETTs and teens attend, and we held Word classes, inspirations, games, get-outs, talent night, open forums, memory work, and of course the long-anticipated dance night.

Interaction with the parents

At each of the Family fellowships we attended, aside from our activities with the JETTs and teens‚ we were also able to hold an open forum with many of their parents and hear their concerns and ideas concerning the young people, and share our ideas and points of view. This proved to be a big blessing, not only for the benefit of communication and unity‚ but for our eyes to be opened to the concerns of the parents. It's going to take both parties, the parents and the boards, working together to make a difference in our dear JETTs and teens' lives.

Communication with the young people and future plans

We've been able to pass out our e-mail addresses at all these camps so as to form a direct line of communication with the young people. A JETT/teen e–mag is in the works, which the JETTs/teens can contribute to, and see pictures of their fellow JETTs and teens and get involved in quizzes and challenges.

PUBLIC RELATIONS PILLAR

AFRICA

Compiled by Oli, regional PR chairperson

In May 2002‚ the Lord told us to prepare materials and tools to use in presenting the Family to friends and contacts. Little did we know at that time that within three short months the Lord would have us participate in one of the biggest international events of 2002, the World Summit on Sustainable Development, held in Johannesburg, South Africa (held August 17–September 7). The Family's participation in the Summit was a cumulative effort of the Africa PR and South Africa CGO board, as well as the Johannesburg Family, WS‚ and the many Homes in Africa who sent personnel to make this possible—a real sample of the board vision in action!

The World Summit 2002
—In Our Back Yard!

By Gideon and Rachel Scott

The World Summit on Sustainable Development (billed as the largest international gathering ever) was held in Johannesburg, South Africa‚ in August and September 2002. It was a fantastic opportunity to fulfill some of the PR board's goals. As a positive presentation of the Family—its message and beliefs—you could not wish for a better international platform or a more spectacular result.

Through the Family's participation at this event we spoke to and delivered prophecy packs to nine heads of state. We reached many government ministers and United Nations officials and international delegates. At our stand, where people received a very full witness—our work, salvation, Endtime message—we had the South African president televised dancing with our singing troupe‚ and on separate occasions met the First Lady of South Africa, a Zulu king, an Australian senator, government officials, the media, members of parliament from different countries, and top businessmen.

There were more than 10,000 visitors to our stand, and we won 4,107 souls. We have a huge mailing list of people whom we have since been following up on via mail and e–mail, with many very positive responses. The booth and the children singing and dancing was on national TV news at least three times; on a serious program on religion at the Summit; on national TV once with interviews and an explanation of our work as missionaries; and again with the children performing; and also on at least one radio program. The international media took hundreds of photos of the children and us with different heads of state for the international press. We literally have no idea how far the message has gone, and we give the Lord all the glory for all the miracles!

As a result of the World Summit, a number of new tools were created to help present not only the Family and our work in Africa, but more specifically how our many local projects, of which we have a number of very successful and dynamic ones which are legal entities in their own right, link up under the Family umbrella. We are working on making these tools (which include a presentation VCD and brochure) available to all the Homes in Africa for use in their witnessing and outreach activities and with sponsors, officials‚ and sheep, to help strengthen the link between each of our associations and the Family—a major goal of our board!

Another key event for our board this year was the weeklong inter–PR board meeting that was hosted by the Family Information Department in England for the three EURCRO area PR boards. Three PR board members from Africa were able to attend, and it was a blessing in terms of shortening the cord with our brethren in Europe. This time together proved very valuable in working together on media and Family presentation materials for Africa, as well as handling any Africa-related issues and press interest that comes up in Europe.

BRAZIL

Compiled by Mark, regional PR chairperson

Representatives from Brazil's PR board attended CGO board meetings to pray and discuss steps to be taken to prepare the Homes for persecution. In this meeting a subcommittee (two PR board members and three CGO board members) was designated to plan seminars, the first of which was held in Rio. This marked the beginning of greater communication and cooperation between these two boards, as well as recognition of the need for each of the other boards to participate in joint persecution preparation projects. We also had extensive dialogue and prayer with members of the FED board regarding Family educational needs and homeschooling, whether on the legal side or on the educational side.

We are working with the FED board to publish a FAQ regarding Family education, to help Family members understand their rights and to be better able to explain our educational position to friends and authorities. We are also working with the CGO board to standardize a deeper Word feeding curriculum for our Active members.

One of the Brazil PR board's projects is the formation of a "Judiciary Subcommittee" with our lawyer disciples and members of the PR board, for the purpose of informing our Active members and other friendly lawyers of our beliefs and the controversies surrounding some of them.

There is a prestigious System site which offered to post descriptions of our CTPs so that outsiders can be informed and volunteer to help, whether with manpower or materials.

A PR/Media Support Group was established to create a network of designated Family participants‚ who volunteer to work with the PR board to provide counsel, manpower, and expertise in the diverse areas of PR/Media, such as in the legal field‚ meeting authorities, ministering to academics and media figures, etc. Although our PR board is small, there is a valuable network of experienced and talented people throughout the country who can help. We are also working to establish a network of stronger, more experienced Active members who can help in standing up for the faith.

EASTEURASIA

Compiled by Hannah and Joseph, regional PR co-chairpersons

We started off the year with a united meeting in February of the WE and EEA PR boards, and with Gideon (of Rachel) attending from Africa. A total of 19 of us gathered at the MM Home (now CEAD—Central European Activated Desk) for five days of meetings. Our main goal was to see how we could help the Homes to be better prepared for media events and what we can do proactively in reaching out to the media world and academics. We covered such topics as how to do more proactive work on our fields and better supply the Homes with up–to-date PR materials, contact with former members, and proactive work with parents, sending a PR survey to Homes, etc. We set up five committees for the European area covering media, legal and human rights, Family legal and humanitarian, reconciliation‚ and translations.

One inspiring point of progress is that in Hungary there is now an academic who is setting up an objective information center on New Religious Movements. He has studied under Eileen Barker in England and is interviewing and collecting data on all the NRMs which are active in Hungary. He had a good interview with John and Ruby and they were able to pass on various documents on the Family for the archives he is putting together.

INDIA

Compiled by Ruth, regional PR chairperson (with Cephas)

The India Family Web site was launched this year to provide Homes with a well-planned PR tool to explain our work to their friends and contacts.

A statement on the Family, its makeup, work, and beliefs, was written for India to help Family members to accurately and positively present the Family. The need was felt for the Indian Family to "speak with one voice" when presenting our faith, work, and other features particular to our movement‚ such as childcare, support, etc.

The PR and CGO boards organized promotional events that were held in Bangalore, Delhi, and Mumbai for our friends and contacts as well as the press to promote God on God and Scott MacGregor's visit. Four positive book reviews were published in top national newspapers before Scott arrived in India and ten events were held in the three cities, which were followed by eight positive newspaper articles highlighting the book and the author.

JAPAN AND KOREA

Compiled by Stephen, regional PR chairperson

Positive coverage about the Family in Japan seems to be increasing. Many Homes have been contacted by the media about their CTP projects, missionary work, and/or musical ministry, and the articles and TV programs were a good witness.

We sent out our first PR board newsletter to the Homes in Japan and Korea, covering the five goals we set for the year. We compiled a video presentation of the Family's worldwide and nationwide work for the Active members, at the request of the CGO board. One Home in Japan is bearing good fruit as an NPO (nonprofit organization), and some other Homes are interested, so we compiled the information regarding NGO/NPOs for the Homes in Japan. We also attended a symposium organized by a lawyer's group whose focus is on helping victims of media abuse.

MEXICO/CENTRAL AMERICA

Compiled by Ben and Maria‚ regional PR members

Conferences and meetings

Last year we were very involved in a series of conferences, forums, and other meetings with academics, government officials, and policymakers. Many of these conferences and events came about through our connection with the interreligious group, Campaña por la Tolerancia (Campaign for Tolerance). The CPT is constantly in contact with various government officials from the Religious Department‚ United Nations, Human Rights‚ congressmen, and others in the process of meeting with and assisting in the organization of conferences. This has given us a terrific open door for meeting with the heads of these various organizations and government officials in a way that we were never able to do before. It has helped us keep abreast of the academic and political trend of thought regarding religions and tolerance. It's also given us a platform to have exposure as the Family‚ our works and the message through our music and writings that we've taken from our pubs for certain topics on tolerance, women's role in society, etc.

Following are some of the activities of the CPT:

*Organizing forums for the general public on human rights‚ tolerance, and religious rights.

*Assisting in the organization of forums for specific public, government, and human rights officials, etc.

*Organizing cultural events that promote tolerance.

*Drawing up proposals for new laws.

*Helping to defend the rights of minorities.

Projects we worked on this year

A GP magazine presenting the Family's work in Mexico, a CD presenting the work in Mexico, a brochure about women in the Family to pass out at a conference we attended, a speech on tolerance, a security advisory memo and an education memo for the Homes.

We helped set up a civil association in Monterrey, "La Familia, un Proyecto del Futuro." God bless the brethren there for taking the initiative. We're in the process of learning the ropes on how to work through these legalities.

Our yearly Christmas humanitarian project at the Zocalo plaza [a central square in Mexico City], where we've been giving out thousands of plates of food to the needy over the past eight years on Christmas day, has done much to promote the Family's good works with the government. Nationwide‚ it has been a terrific appeal project to reach many, as well as giving us more mass witness on this day than the rest of the year. In 2001, the mass witness was 203,000,000!

MIDEAST

Compiled by Joan‚ regional PR chairperson

The ME regional PR board, which covers the work in Lebanon, Pakistan‚ Turkey, and several sensitive countries in the Middle East, met for the first time in September. The two-day meeting was a wonderful opportunity to unite and discuss proactive ways to promote the Family name and work in our area.

The main topic of prayer and discussion was recommending that the Homes establish PR teams to improve follow-up on the many media contacts and friends that have been made over the years. Almost all media coverage we have received so far has been positive‚ so making a commitment to faithfully follow up on these contacts is an important proactive step. The board suggested that the PR teams report every three months to the regional PR board on any proactive projects they worked on, media coverage they received during the previous three months, and other victories and/or problems. The PR board also recommended that each country develop and regularly update a local Web site on which they can advertise their activities.

One area all agreed is a weak one that all Homes could and should improve in is learning the local languages. While we have produced and distributed lots of booklets, videos, and audios in the local language, and the Mideast singing team has made tremendous strides in learning to sing in Arabic (to where 90% of their songs are now in the local language)‚ actually learning to speak the language has been a weak point for many, which often reflects negatively on our image. The board encouraged the Homes to seek the Lord for solutions to improve individual local language learning and to put a renewed emphasis on it. Some Homes started scheduling local language study for their members twice or more each week, which is a good start and something the board hopes to continue to encourage the Homes in.

A profile of our organization and work has been prepared by some members of the Mideast PR and CGO boards. Since the work in the Middle East is rather sensitive and closely connected, all agreed there was a need in our particular situation for each country to have such a profile. While each country will adapt the profile to their local situation and work‚ it will help standardize our approach region-wide when answering questions regarding our background and beliefs to the media or those interested.

NORTH AMERICA

Compiled by Marc and Claire (regional PR co-chairpersons) and the NA Media Home

North meets south—the board vision on the move

This past year we were able to circulate 10 monthly newsletters to the other PR boards around the world, as a way of sharing what the Lord is doing in our area. We also compiled nearly 1,000 files related to public relations, court cases, academic findings, etc., which we recently made available to public relations teams. Our YA secretary, Marianne, organized a file of articles published on the Family dating back to the beginning of the Family, containing thousands of articles to make available to PR teams around the world. Our PR board prepared two advisories for the NA field regarding security and persecution prep. Phil (PR board member) compiled an advisory for Homes in North America about how to find information on forming nonprofit organizations‚ all of which was made available to the Family via the Internet.

We also held three seminars in the year on public relations related points‚ at which we gave presentations; two of these were in the United States, and one in Brazil with folks attending from all over South America. We teamworked with the PR team in Mexico on a few legal situations, which the Lord resolved through desperate prayer and the power of the keys! We were able to collaborate with the PR team in Chile regarding the efforts of the Chilean Congress in appointing a committee to investigate sects/cults.

Conferences highlighting religion and religious freedom issues

We attended five conferences pertaining to minority religions or religious freedom issues this year. We spoke at one of these conferences, which sponsored a full academic panel presenting papers on the Family. We presented a paper ourselves, which was well received. The papers presented reflected a deeper understanding of the Family and our current history, which was refreshing. One of the conferences we attended was a counter-cult conference (this is a collection of religious individuals discussing ways to de-convert members of new religions, which they consider false religions). A paper was also presented there on the Family, which was insightful and accurate‚ focusing on the last ten years of our history. We were able to interact with and visit members of other new religions‚ such as Jesus People USA, Kashi, Scientology, Unification Church, etc. This interaction can be quite helpful in networking and discussing common issues.

New writings published on the Family

This year several publications on the Family were published, with some new ones in the works. Ten years ago, there was very little third–party information written on the Family. It's been a miracle to see people take interest in the Family and begin to seek to portray us accurately and understand our theology and belief system. This year, one book was published, Dr. William Bainbridge's The Endtime Family—The Children of God, which represented several years of research‚ interviews and surveys. Besides this, three papers were written on the Family, plus several entries for encyclopedias on religion and women in religion.

Religious Internet service

Over a year ago, the Lord led us to pioneer a nonprofit religious news service for human rights activists, new religions, and experts on religion. This service expanded vastly over the past year and we were able to send out over 5,000 news articles on religion last year. This has been a contact point for people interested in religious tolerance and the freedom of religion of minorities. We also compile these articles into a 12 to 16-page bimonthly newsletter‚ which we send out to a couple of hundred academics and religious freedom activists, as well as homeschooling organizations. This year we sent out two homeschooling issues and five religious news magazines‚ a total of 886 magazines.

New Web sites

We launched several new Web sites this year for the North American work as well as our work in the international arena of religious freedom and tolerance. The first site is a Web page for our news service, which includes an archive of over 2,000 news articles about religion and religious freedom. This generated many new subscribers and enhanced our service considerably. We received over 400 visitors this year who downloaded over 700 MB. Our team also revamped the "media" section of the GP Family Web site, making it more GP-friendly and updating the information to keep it current and focused on current issues. In conjunction with the CGO board, our board decided that a Web site for the Family in North America would be a helpful tool, presenting the specific work we do in North America with testimonies from our field. We were able to launch this Web site this year, though it is still in its early stages, pending input from the field (www.thefamilyna.org). We also set up a local Web site for our PR work in our area‚ which has proved a real blessing, in conjunction with our updated PR album. The Web is certainly becoming a tool of choice in reaching out to many.

North America mail ministry

Over the past seven years‚ as part of our PR proactive work, our public relations team has operated a mail ministry to individuals who study religion, religious freedom activists, government officials who handle religious affairs, embassies, and parents and relatives of Family members. This past year, we sent out 6,889 mailings. They go out to over 2‚000 people, who receive a few mailings a year (not to mention the other 200 homeschooling societies we send regular mailings to as well). Ginna and Marianne‚ who handle these mailings, sent out 4,376 Activated mags, 1,128 Reflections‚ 6,073 FARs, 1,003 GNs, GN comps and FSMs, 10,831 WRNS pubs and other pubs, with a total of 22‚228 pieces sent out. This doesn't include the 17,000 Activated mags distributed by our Home this past year via outreach.

In reply to a mailing we sent out to embassy officials, we received a request from an African country for school books for their schools, since most schools in that country struggle along without any textbooks. We were able to send off several shipments of books and received some beautiful letters of acknowledgement and thanks from their Ministry of Education. We also received a request from them for more Activated magazines, which we sent their way.

PACIFIC (ACTON)

Compiled by Paul D., regional PR chairperson

Taiwan

Taiwan already had a functioning media and PR team‚ so was one of the first national PR boards to be set up. Because of the need to translate PR materials into Chinese, some of the board members are from the Lit-Pic. As a field, Taiwan is very accepting of Christians and many are appreciative of the work the Family is doing there. One big step forward is the launching of Chinese Activated, as it offers a wonderful opportunity to feed people step by step. There are a number of tools in the works designed to strengthen our friends and contacts‚ such as a Family brochure, translation of simplified Statements, and some initiatives to strengthen the convictions of Family members.

During the study month, Tim led a couple of workshops entitled "Meat of the Word." The board completed a compilation of "Tips and Steps for Deeper Feeding of Friends," which was sent to local field Homes. A training seminar was held for board members on what it takes to be a spokesperson‚ as well as go over some "hard questions" that were turned into P&P and study assignments. The PR board is preparing training seminars for all Taiwan national disciples for 2003.

The Chinese Lit-Pic is putting together two media packs—one milky‚ including "The Facts About Our Family" and "The Family Adopts the Charter," along with a few FARs and our Statement of Faith. The second is more meaty, with all of the above plus "Summary of Statements" and some full Statements that are not covered in the summaries above.

Media programs done on Family members have been favorable.

China

We have been thankful for the WRNS news service from the NA media team as they frequently include news reports from China that keep us informed about relevant religious freedom issues. As you can imagine, the role of our PR folks in China is quite different than in many other places. Our focus has been more toward strengthening security and keeping updated communications with the Homes.

Australia

In Sydney the Lord has led us to set up a charity that encompasses our CTP ministries in the jails and with the underprivileged. It's called "Change the World, Inc." and has been recognized by the State's Office of Charities. Our jail ministries give us high profile as the Family.

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Compiled by Steven, regional PR chairperson

Our board growth and progress has been steady, beginning with the addition of new board members from Indonesia and the PI to represent those fields, as well as increased communications with the Homes. Since April 2002 we have sent out 21 messages and/or advisories to the Homes in our region concerning media and legal issues.

In October, we hosted a persecution prep seminar for the Homes in Thailand. We sent copies of the seminar pack to the board members in Cambodia, Indonesia, and the PI. We covered points such as the importance of unity‚ obedience to the Word, desperation‚ and prayer in combating persecution. The Lord highlighted the importance of everyone taking action on these points, and we've kept in touch with the Homes on the progress being made.

Thailand

One of the biggest PR-related victories continues to be the favorable media coverage the Family is getting through the lukthoong ministry. The Lord has continued to use this fruitful ministry as a vehicle to proactively project a positive image of the Family. Many of the programs that are broadcast or articles that come out about either Jonas and/or Christy also bring the Family into the picture, often focusing quite a bit on the Family's work and lifestyle. We're desperate to not only continue to give the Lord the credit for anything that has been accomplished in this regard, but to follow His leadings closely in the media field, be it working with or handling the many media outlets that we're in contact with.

In addition to the numerous interviews done by either Jonas and/or Christy that also included the Family, there were three main articles on the Family done by the Bangkok Post and The Nation, all positive. There have been two articles on the Family in The Nation--one on a CTP project at Bahn Pakred, a home for handicapped children; the second one on the educational assistance the Family offers different institutions. Over the last 10 months, there have been about four interviews done at the DF Home for various TV programs‚ and several others for magazines and newspapers, featuring Family home life. There was a TV interview featuring Jonas and Christy's Web site, which they showed online during the TV program (see below). Several magazines have published photo pages of the Family's CTP work. Channel 5 has continued to air Family songs as fillers in between programs.

The Family was once again the recipient of the "Public Welfare Supporter of the Year" award. This is the seventh or eighth time we have received this award in conjunction with our CTPs at various institutions under the Department of Public Welfare.

We have two Web sites, www.thaifamily.org and www.jonasanderson.com, which are regularly updated. Both have continued to be an important asset in promoting the Family's good name both locally and abroad. (Channel 9 requested an interview with Jonas and Christy about their Web site, to use for an IT program. Jonas and Christy's Web site is probably the only Web site in the country for a lukthoong artist and one of the better Web sites for a singer or performer in the country, plus it's bilingual‚ so they were quite interested in it. They came over to the Home to film Jonas and Christy in the studio at their computer, showing their Web site online, which not only has performing pictures and news, but also pictures of CTPs and Family-related things.)

In conjunction with the CGO board, we are working to create a new PR brochure to represent the Family's work in Thailand, a color calendar for 2003, and a bilingual Heavenly Streams booklet.

MUSIC MINISTRY HIGHLIGHTS

MEDIA – 118 major TV/radio/newspaper interviews/press conferences were done by Jonas and Christy in regards to their ministry and/or the Family, all of which were favorable. Besides a myriad of programs and interviews with local media outlets (TV/radio/newspapers/magazines), they have also done interviews with NHK, Fuji TV (both from Japan)‚ Voice of America, Voice of Free Asia‚ and Associated Press TV. Jonas and Christy received an award for their efforts to increase drug awareness in Thailand.

OVERSEAS TRIPS – Jonas and Christy made six overseas trips between November 2001 and October 2002.

NEW ALBUMS – Jonas and Christy recorded and released one new album each this last year, as well as a corresponding music video. Jonas is now working on his fourth album.

Philippines/Indonesia

Some of our goals for the PI include: making a renewed push to contact our friends in the media and other levels of influence, preparing them for potential persecution; documenting the Family's good works for an upcoming PR video; communicating with the Homes concerning the importance of upping the physical standard‚ and regularly updating our children's educational records and other related points via an advisory (in communication with the other relevant boards on this).

In Indonesia‚ the brethren have gone on the attack in feeding our friends more deeply, explaining in detail what the Family is and grounding them in the Word. They continue to have a very fruitful CTP ministry and contact with many high-ranking and important people who are favorable to the Family.

Cambodia

The team there has been able to make contact with a lot of influential and high–ranking people, winning key people to our work. Peter and Sharon (YAs‚ of Markus and Ammi) were invited to participate in two 1½-hour radio music shows, reaching a total of four million in seven provinces. They explained a bit about our work, answered calls on the air, and played some of our music. The DJ was so flipped out about our songs that he asked us to come back again the next week. We were able to play another three songs the following week and talk more about our lifestyle. They have asked us to consider hosting our own radio program, which we are praying about.

SEA pioneer field

Michelle SGA (of Paul Hart) is writing/compiling a column on the care and education of young children for an upmarket monthly magazine. This month's article was five pages long, and so far the reactions have been very positive. As of November it'll be a regular monthly column.

SPANISH SOUTH AMERICA

Compiled by Juan‚ regional PR chairperson

Participation in Chile's "Tolerance Forum"

For two years we have been permanent members of the "Tolerance Forum" in Chile, composed of professors, heads of foundations, government officials, jurists, and human rights activists. The main objective of this forum is to make Chile a more tolerant and diverse country, contributing information from numerous cases of discrimination to a team of jurists of the University Diego Portals, where they have their headquarters. The forum has made important contributions to the freedom of press and speech laws‚ recently passed by the Chilean Congress, as well as substantial contributions to the reformation of the penal procedural system that are being implemented now. The forum is presently working on an anti-discrimination law, for which we have been able to share our experience as a small new religious movement. We were asked to organize a meeting to cover the global problem of all NRMs in Chile.

Media and educational workshop for young people

The first part of the course, for 18-year-olds and up, covers topics such as leadership‚ attitude, motivation, communication, ethics, commitment, and vision. The second part has to do with being a spokesperson and assisting in legal matters‚ including knowledge of our Family Statements, civil rights and the legal framework in Chile, the main sociological works pertaining to the Family, and a brief history of the ACM. We also include workshops on the practical applications of talking to journalists and officials. The final part of the course covers academic subjects for Family young people, including history‚ politics, economy, history of modern thought, sociology‚ influences of the media in today's culture, etc. The purpose of these studies is to help the young people acquire a deeper understanding of the world we live in, in the context of the prophecies of the Endtime.

Media workshop for adults

We held our first adult media workshop, discussing subjects related to the work of a spokesperson. When we started this program with the young people, many adults expressed their desire to participate in a workshop of this nature. We covered topics such as the cultural changes that were effected in the Family through our attitude toward persecution (from the persecution in France until now), our civil rights‚ the legal framework in Chile, and the rights that we have as citizens to profess our beliefs‚ etc.

The main problem that some adults face when they are verbally attacked or subjected to hostile questioning is confusing our beliefs with what we have been accused of. Our organization is not criminal, as has been demonstrated worldwide. There is no doubt about that in judicial terms. Regarding our beliefs, the laws of most countries guarantee us the right to believe whatever we want, however eccentric our beliefs may be. If we are to increase the visibility of the Family, we should be prepared for controversy. It's vital that each Family member is prepared in this area, free of fears and doubts, and ready to lift the name of the Family with conviction and dignity.

Argentina: Lawsuit against criminal psychologists

It's been eight years since we began a lawsuit against the specialists that falsified the psychological reports in the Argentina case. It was these reports that Judge Marquevich based his pretrial detention order on against the 21 adults. Investigation has determined that the drawings were falsified (one of them copied from a psychology manual) and that the evidence was forged only for the intent of harming the Family. The case is presently before the Supreme Court.

Our lawyer is determined to further appeal to the Inter-American Court of Human Rights if the Argentine Supreme Court's ruling is not favorable to us. Pray for the Lord to further vindicate the Family with a favorable ruling. We are also asking for prayer for a breakthrough in our case against the state of Argentina to receive economic compensation for the damages that we suffered.

WEST EUROPE

Compiled by Abi, regional PR chairperson

Building our work

All the European countries—west and east—and the Central Asian countries that used to be part of the Soviet bloc, are interconnected. For instance, almost every international conference is attended by academics from west and east. Another example is how the Council of Europe, which has quite an impact on "sect" matters at a government level, encompasses all of this area. When praying about how to manage the proactive work in this area, we realized we couldn't artificially divide West Europe from the EastEurAsia area, but rather needed to build on the united proactive platform that has already been established. The result is that we still have one "European Family Information Department" (FID) that coordinates, advises, and assists those helping with proactive work, no matter whether in Western‚ Central, or Eastern Europe. Of course, the West Europe and EEA PR boards do operate autonomously as fully functioning boards, but with assistance from the FID in some matters and projects. The FID also provides some assistance to the African PR board.

First West Europe PR board meeting

We produced an "Introducing the Family" brochure with an updated and European-flavor sample of the Family and an updated legal dossier. The PR board members were able to give presentations at four different fellowships, which were attended by a majority of the West Europe Homes. The presentation included an explanation of the services our board is offering, how the FID can help the Homes should they have encounters with the media‚ other advice geared to their particular area, plus some information handouts.

European Family Information Department or "FID"

The FID is based near London. At present our team is Abi, Valour‚ and Sara, plus we get lots of practical help from Simon. Our main goals are to represent the Family in Europe, helping to ensure that key people such as academics in the religious field, government officials, and other people of influence get to hear the truth about the Family and also to understand the importance of religious freedom for minority groups such as ours.

One of the biggest victories in the past year was opening the Family Information Office. The office is starting to receive visitors, and those who come are highly impressed by the display of Family books and materials‚ photos, and other information. We also have a lot of archive and research material that they can browse.

In the past year the FID (sometimes with other PR board members) has represented the Family at ten international conferences and seminars in England, Norway, and Hungary. We have been providing information about the Family for several books in the works (one in Sweden, two in England). We've also answered requests for information about the Family from academics and students (from England, Germany, and Sweden) and about religious freedom (this will be published, God willing). We gave presentations on the Family to two university classes.

It's hard to estimate how many people we directly influenced through all of these events, but we'd guess it's in the hundreds. We put together a few local pubs for specific conferences or events, including a 2001 year-end newsletter‚ an Easter newsletter, and a "Religious Freedom" paper. We have a mailing list of around 400 key contacts in the EURCRO area that received these. We also send monthly "e-mailings" to around 110 key contacts around Europe, which includes a cover letter with recent news plus the month's FARs. Since the middle of the year‚ we've been sending out a monthly summary of significant religion news to around 50 key contacts, which is appreciated.

Legal and media

On the legal front, the major victory was in Spain, where a judge closed an investigation that had been started following some outlandish accusations on a TV program. The brother concerned was questioned, but the judge concluded that there was no basis or reason to continue the proceedings.

The biggest media victory was the BBC Radio 4 series on "Bigots or Believers" (which you can listen to online: http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/religion/bigots.shtml). In the UK, we had one major newspaper article that wasn't particularly positive. However‚ this was followed up by a BBC Radio Scotland interview in which Dom (SGA) and Abi were able to give a clear witness. We have since been invited to participate in several other TV programs. We ask the Lord about each one and only go ahead with those that He confirms. There was also a controversial program shown in Italy.

Ministry with former members

There are nearly 100 former members receiving the Wine Press monthly mailing (Wine Press with other DFO and GP pubs). A majority of them communicate with us and/or send gifts, while others have been sponsored by Family members. We send a cover letter with every mailing. We get quite a bit of personal response‚ news, and prayer requests. We received around 300 letters and e-mails this year‚ all of which were answered with a personal note. There are also roughly 115 other former members on our list. We send them a mailing of a Reflections, CLTP, or Christmas card 3 or 4 times a year, so they know they're still loved and cared for. Some of these folks are then inspired to request the Wine Press.

At the end of 2001 we organized our first "former members fellowship" for Christmas. The former members are scattered throughout Europe, so it wasn't possible for many to attend, but those who made it enjoyed it very much, and the newsletter we sent out afterwards had a very good response.

"Proactive Preparation and Planning" meeting

One of our goals as the year progressed was for the PR board members around Europe to get more involved with proactive work. There is so much that can be done and people who can be met that it's sometimes hard to know where to begin. The Lord gave prophecies and ideas about holding a "Proactive Preparation and Planning" meeting, to which we invited all PR board members who had a burden to get more active in this way. We hosted a five-day meeting attended by members from all three EURCRO PR boards—West Europe, EEA, and Africa. The two main goals of the meeting were to make concrete plans for proactive work and to share training and experiences.

The Lord's victories!

At virtually every event where we go to represent the Family, we are explaining the meat of our message‚ and all in all, we find it is well received. Even if people don't agree with our theology, they realize these are our sincerely held religious beliefs and they do see their scriptural foundation. We can hardly remember any negative response to our proactive work in the past year.

Although there is still an active anti-cult movement in Europe and some governments are definitely biased against minority religious movements, plus we still face some distorted accounts in the press, overall it would seem that in the past year there has probably been more factual information circulated about the Family in Europe than negative. We are well known amongst the international community of scholars who specialize in New Religious Movements, and most of them seem quite respectful of our religious beliefs and lifestyle.

VISITATION AND SHEPHERDING PILLAR

AFRICA

Compiled by Lisa, regional VS chairperson

I would like to commend the VSs here in Africa for their sacrifice and love, as well as that of their Homes in letting them go on extended visitation last year. A victory is that since the boards began, every Home in Africa—with the exception of two Homes, due to difficult circumstances—has been visited, against many odds. The cord has been shortened and the foundation laid for closer communication and interaction in the future. Receiving the videos from Mama and Peter and having the privilege of taking these around was also a great unifying factor and special commission!

East Africa national board, by Robin

We had a wonderful initial board meeting to get started in Nairobi. Rose came from La Reunion‚ Michael was already in Nairobi, and I came from Uganda.

Rose has been busy in communication with our teams in La Reunion and Madagascar, where we have the French production team‚ producing both audio tools as well as translations of Activated and an increasing range of wonderful French pubs.

After the initial board meetings, I visited the Dar es Salaam teams, Mombasa, and Nairobi Homes. Within a few months, we organized a second set of board meetings, and I was again able to visit the Nairobi teams.

The biggest boost to our visiting was taking around the VCDs of Mama and Peter to each of our Homes.

Southern Africa national board, by Dom

We are a new VS team consisting of Thaddeus‚ Nora, Elizabeth‚ and Dom. It is the first time that we are finding ourselves working in teamwork while living in different Homes—a real challenge. Through our board meetings, teaming up together to visit the Homes, and e–mail communications, our Husband is drawing us closer to Him, each other‚ and our precious Family members throughout the area.

The highlight of our year was visiting all the Homes in our area and showing the videos featuring Mama to the Family. Each and every Home was thrilled to see and know Mama in person via video.

It was a treat to have Gabe (from WS) join one of our teams in visiting some of the Homes. We not only got to see Mama on video but it also brought WS down home for us. Gabe was a good sample of one who loves the Lord, Mama, Peter, and the Family, and is human just like the rest of us. It brought home "The Way Things Really Are in WS." He has a real heart for each and every Family member he met.

West Africa national board, by Peace‚ Simon, Virginia, and Jan

We have been thrilled to see all that the Lord has done, in less than a year‚ with the implementation of the board vision. Each of our board meetings has been very miraculous, as there are great distances between us, and traveling conditions in this part of the world are less than ideal. But the Lord has always supplied. The meetings have served to "shorten the cord" amongst our areas.

Some of our board members sit on more than one board, so we usually have all the boards meet at once. Having such good input from the other boards about childcare, education, young people and witnessing has helped us to be of better service to the Homes, helping us to identify needy areas sooner and direct related questions and problems to the right board.

We had the special honor of visiting all the Homes with the videos of Peter and Mama, and this being our first visit to most Homes, was a wonderful way to start our job.

BRAZIL

Compiled by Mark, regional VS chairperson

With the advent of the boards we added three new VSs, and two of the VSs who were appointed the previous year entered into greater front-line service‚ enabling us to more effectively minister to the needs of the Homes. Over half of our VS boards are composed of new members‚ filling a great need we had for more VSs.

The most outstanding accomplishment for the year was showing Mama and Peter's videos to approximately 85 Homes. We held group showings in the larger cities of Rio and São Paulo, after which our VS teams launched out into the interior, showing the videos and doing visitation for over two months.

All of our Homes in the interior were personally visited, plus most of our Homes in Rio and São Paulo received shepherding or visitation of some kind this year. Four out of our nine VSs are also regional or national board chairpersons of other boards, so God bless them for working double–duty.

The São Paulo/south VS board held a bellwether meeting together with the JT board and other senior teens, YAs‚ and SGAs—a selected group of about 18 chosen by the JT regional and national board chairpersons. This meeting proved to be a blessing and seems to have sparked a challenge in the young people. Many of the YAs and SGAs have committed to work together with the JT board, and have broken up into groups that tune into the three separate age groups.

VSs also participated in the Brazil national retreat, the south CGO retreat, and a PR/CGO persecution prep meeting in Rio. Mostly, though, they dedicated their year quietly, behind the scenes, in countless hours of unseen work ministering to the Homes and the brethren.

EASTEURASIA

Compiled by Dawn, regional VS chairperson

AMBER national board

In the nine months since the board structure took effect, we've visited 11 of the 25 Homes in the area. We also visited another three Homes from our former area to pass them on to the new VSs there.

A fair bit of time and work went into coordinating a Family camp.

Showing the videos to the Homes was a big undertaking for our team, and thanks to the help of DRs (Designated Representatives) John (of Jasmine) and Brian (of Rosa), we were able to show the videos from the Folks to the entire CM Family in the AMBER area.

As a VS team we have been involved in a variety of communications, ranging from clearance requests, disciplinary matters, reading of and responding to the comments and suggestions from the TRFs, to the sometimes daily messages from the field asking for prayer and counsel.

We've started a local newsletter, which the Lord showed us to put together as a simple "get to know you" means‚ and as a link of love to our mates‚ friends, and co-workers on the field. (A copy can be found on the MO site.)

Stats

*We visited 44% of the Homes in our area (11 out of 25).

*Our VS team traveled 6,300 km.

*During the showing of Mama and Peter's videos, our VS board members visited 64% of our Homes‚ and traveled approximately 2,200 km in doing so.

*A stat that people may not think of which came up recently is: the longest talk-time session. A couple of us spent time talking with and listening to someone for 12 hours with only about a half-hour break for dinner. It was a wonderful time of getting to know each other and finding the Lord's guidance and solutions.

B2B national board

99% of the Homes in our national area were visited, or a total of 22 out of 23—all but one!

We have worked with two VS trainees for the majority of the year, one of whom has become a full VS. It has been a blessing to have the extra help and it has enabled us to accomplish more in visiting the Homes, having P&Ps for their needs, helping with communications, etc.

Adjusting to working as a board, as compared with pre-board VSing: To be honest, the boards have brought with them a lot of work‚ as we have taken on more communications with the field and some decision-making which we weren't involved with before. However, we see how it will eventually lighten our load in helping us to concentrate on seeing the Family in our area a lot more.

We began our B2B area's newsletter, which has helped shorten the cord between the Homes and us.

NEAT national board

We visited 75% of the Homes in our area.

We held a fellowship for the Homes in much of our area this summer. We enjoyed each other's company and meeting Peter and Mama via video during the weeklong fellowship. The CGO, CP, PR and FED boards also made presentations.

The "Conviction vs. Compromise" series had a very big impact on the Homes and individuals in the area, causing each of us to examine our stand with the Lord and the Family. The ensuing prayer day was also a steppingstone, and as a result of following the counsel in the GNs, the Homes have been strengthened.

INDIA

Compiled by Cephas, regional VS chairperson

We were blessed to receive special input via prophecies through Mama's channels specifically tailored for our field, to help strengthen our resolve to become rewired, regenerated, and ready for the challenges and commission we have before us in 2003.

Along with the rest of the Family, we were blessed when Mama and Peter came into our living rooms personally via video to encourage, strengthen, and prepare us for the days to come.

The VSs and COs visited every Home in the country at least once, and as a field we have been able to meet (at the national and city level) to pray, discuss, and deliberate with individual Home members and their respective Homes, as well as assisting with city meetings and ACMs (Action Committee Meetings) in order to continue to be a help and strength to our faithful Family.

A follow-up meeting was held with the Homes to consolidate and share lessons and testimonies from the "Being Rewired" prayer day. Where we have put the spiritual first and fought to obey and uphold the spiritual standards, following the Letters as closely as possible as professionals‚ our efforts have been blessed with good fruit in reaching the field with Activated, tools distributed, church growth, and the expansion program.

As a field we have seen and witnessed the miracles of action through prayer. Every month or so the VSs have sent out an "Action Through Prayer" list of local prayer requests to solicit everyone's help and prayers on various matters, and through this forum answered prayers are being voiced abroad.

JAPAN AND KOREA

Compiled by Phoenix, regional VS chairperson

We held our first regional board meeting in October. We plan to hold a delegates' meeting at the beginning of the new year, in cooperation with all the regional boards, to further strengthen different areas in our field, as well as to prepare for persecution.

Each time we meet as a board‚ whether national or regional, the Lord bonds us together by leading us to share our own lessons and ask each other for prayer. The Lord keeps our precious VSs broken, as the VS job requires real desperation with the Lord, and relying on His strength and not our own.

East Japan national board, by Paul

The east national VSs made a total of 13 visits, and held three national board meetings.

We had a cooperative effort with the East Japan CGO board‚ holding a witnessing meeting last summer.

VSs from both national areas worked together to support the Activated seminar held in October at Mt. Fuji, attended by some 90 CM, FM, and Active members. All our VSs attended and offered counsel and prayer to the attendees.

West Japan national board‚ by Alf

Our teammate, dear Sunny, went to be with the Lord in July after a long battle with cancer. She was a sample of a true fighter to all of us. She died trusting, in spite of all the difficulties she went through‚ and she fought a good fight of faith until her graduation. Sunny certainly shares with us in the victories won this past year.

Jeremy and I both have large families (he has 10 kids and I have 12!)‚ and both his and my mate are also on boards (CP and CGO). So we want to thank the Lord for the wonderful Family members who stand by our side to uphold the standard and forge ahead with the vision that the Lord has set before us—the board vision. We give our hearty appreciation to the dedicated Home members who so willingly do whatever needs to be done to set us free to serve the Family as VSs and board members.

Since the board vision, we have held three national board meetings and participated in two teen meetings (organized by the West Japan JT board), and one regional Activated seminar. We also worked with the West Japan CGO board to organize two Activated seminars.

We visited 13 CM Homes. Putting a special emphasis on visitation and our involvement in area fellowships and meetings has helped us to see the state of the Homes in our area, as well as getting to know people on a personal level.

MEXICO/CENTRAL AMERICA

Compiled by Miguel, regional VS chairperson

Last year our average VS count for Mexico and Central America was seven VSs.

In tallying our visitation stats, we'll take out the Homes that have a "resident" VS or CO, because it's hard to measure a "VS visit" when a VS lives in the house! We visited 73% of the remaining Homes‚ and 39% had a repeat visit. In total, we made roughly 49 individual visits to Homes this last year.

MIDDLE EAST

Compiled by Joan, regional VS chairperson

The Mideast regional VS board is divided into three national areas: Pakistan, Turkey, and the Central Mideast. There are a total of nine VSs. Presently we are in the process of working with and training the VSs in two of the national board areas. It's been a wonderful victory that the Lord has raised up those who have been willing to make the sacrifice to help with the VS ministry, as it has helped to strengthen our regional area.

We have met regularly with our national board chairpersons, praying for and discussing our area, setting goals, and committing ourselves to serve the Homes the best we can.

The Central ME national board held meetings to discuss and pray about their responsibilities as Area Officers under the Charter‚ assign responsibilities, appoint a secretary and treasurer, discuss communications and come up with plans for a visitation schedule. From all of these discussion points and proposals, our board was able to put forth a number of initiatives, including upholding the discipleship standard with the Homes, for all of us to re-study the Charter, the "Conviction vs. Compromise" series and the S2K Letters‚ checking into the Homes' financial states, helping the Homes care for potential disciples and Active members‚ as well as tuning into the young adults by compiling a Word study on finding their calling and commitment.

Visitation

Since the boards were initiated, all Homes in our area were visited at least once. The VSs have also regularly communicated‚ counseled, and shepherded the Homes in their areas through the mail.

In July, we visited all three Homes in Pakistan: Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. We were able to get to know all these faithful missionaries, take personal talk–time with everyone (teens and up), hold united Home meetings and teamwork meetings, and have times of special activities together.

In July we went on a nine-day visit to CM and FM Homes in Beirut, Lebanon.

In August, we visited two of the CM Homes in Turkey. (The third Home was traveling at the time of our visit.)

We also made trips to other countries, including a newly pioneered field. The Home there has been operating since June and the Lord is opening some wonderful doors of opportunity.

NORTH AMERICA

Compiled by Tom and Simon, regional VS co-chairpersons

The board vision has had a significant impact on the work in North America‚ and has tremendously lifted the shepherding load that was previously on the VS and CO teamworks here. With the board vision have come many more teen camps and activities, OC camps and activities, FED materials, CGO/Activated seminars and materials, more communication and cooperation between Homes and areas, and the work has generally become tighter and more inspired.

Many of the VSs also serve on other boards‚ so they are involved with the progress and efforts of the Homes through these boards. This gives them the opportunity to work with the Homes and toward progress in a variety of ways, such as working with teen camps, CGO activities, and FED and childcare efforts.

Northeastern US national board

In the northeast area of North America, an area that extends from the Mason/Dixon line in the US up through Canada, and from the Atlantic to the Mississippi‚ every CM Home has been visited at least once since the implementation of the board vision, either during the showing of the videos of Mama and Peter or in a separate visit. The VS team reported that, "Since the implementation of the board vision, we have made about 25 visits to different Homes within our NE area. One added blessing this year was that we were able to show Mama and Peter's videos to the Homes‚ for which everyone was very thankful, and having the board structure in place made this possible."

VSs and COs in the Northeast traveled over 21,000 miles visiting the Homes, spent more than 300 hours counseling and praying with Family members, and together with the ABM work, answered over 1,500 e-mails.

Southeastern US/Caribbean national board

In the Southeastern US/Caribbean area, which extends south of the Mason/Dixon line and includes the Caribbean, the VS team reported that‚ "The Lord has made it possible since the implementation of the board vision for all the Homes to be visited at least once and some of them twice. In traveling throughout the southeast area, it has been such a blessing to see the fruits of the 'Conviction vs. Compromise' series, and the wonderful progress that has been made in the Homes. This is reflected not just in the improved unity in cities that previously had problems along those lines, but also in the strengthening of the spiritual walks of individual Family members.

"The Homes throughout the Southeast are striving to implement the Activated vision, and several of the Homes now have weekly Activated meetings, attended by friends and contacts who are growing in faith. The changes that individual Family members have made in their lives as a result of 'Conviction vs. Compromise' have been positively reflected in the fellowship amongst Homes. Nearly all of the Homes visited since the study month are making proactive steps to prepare for upcoming persecution."

The Southeast VSs and COs traveled more than 16‚000 miles in visitation, answered over 300 e-mails, and spent more than 400 hours personal counseling.

Central US national board

The central area runs from the Mississippi to the Rocky Mountains and from the Mexican border to Northern Canada. There are 22 CM Homes and 40 FM Homes in this area, spread out from 1,400 miles north/south and 750 miles east/west of each other. The VS team visited all the CM Homes and most of the FM Homes more than once, traveling 30,500 miles over the course of the year in their visitation. They handled over 1,000 e-mail messages over the course of the year‚ and spent untold hours in counseling and prayer.

Western US national board

The Western North American area runs 1‚500 miles north and south from Baja, Mexico, to Alaska, and from Arizona to Hawaii. There are 21 CM Homes and 50 FM Homes in the Western NA area.

The Western VSs said, "This year a number of people in our area have been afflicted with long-term life-threatening illnesses, including cancer‚ Hep. C, strokes, and other disabilities, some in our Home and amongst our personal family. The Lord has brought many beautiful things out of this in stirring us up to take on a ministry of prayer and intercession for others in the power of the keys.

"We visited or sent Designated Representatives to show the videos to all of the CM Homes in the Western US. We've made trips to Tijuana, Mexicali, Arizona, and Canada. Over the course of the year we used our Home bases for area meetings‚ JETT/teen activities, area dances, OC activities, as well as a time of rest and Word for different brethren in the area who needed a break away from their busy Homes.

"As a VS team, we were also involved in planning and hosting the JETT/teen camp in our area and the Activated/CGO seminar. All of our three-man VS team either sit on the JT or CGO board or were actively involved in activities of those boards."

Our Western shepherding board teams of VSs and COs traveled approximately 15‚000 miles, visited 33 Homes, spent over 1,300 hours praying and counseling with our wonderful Family members on the phone or in person, wrote 190 letters, and answered over 2,500 e-mail messages from the Homes.

PACIFIC (ACTON)

Compiled by Jeff, regional VS chairperson

One of the most inspiring moments for me since being in leadership has been to see so many capable people taking the reins and getting involved in the work via the boards—not only the members of the VS board, but the other boards as well.

A great victory for our region has been to break away from operating as individual Homes and come together once again as a field and as a region. We are grateful to have a tremendous crew of missionaries in all countries of our area. Here is a brief overview of the meetings, activities, and camps that were held last year.

China national board, by Claire

The formation of the VS board was a big strength and blessing. Previously the China VSs had very little contact with each other, so forming a board increased our communications, prayer, counsel, and unity. This was a major boost to each of us personally.

We wish we could tell you more about the wonderful job the Homes here are doing, but because of certain security concerns‚ we have to be discreet. Many of the brethren need to work at System jobs in order to remain in the country and support themselves or get visas, as the Homes cannot sell tools or do other fundraising activities, nor can they associate themselves openly to everyone they meet as the Family. Despite operating under such conditions, it was so encouraging to hear time and again in our visitation that teams are desperately praying to stay dropped out‚ full of conviction, disciples trying to live the Words of David to the full!

Taiwan national board, by Titus

The VS board majored in standing behind the other boards and their seminars‚ camps, and projects. There was one JETT/junior teen camp and an Activated seminar, which helped kick off the Chinese Activated mag.

We are in the planning stages of hosting a regional YA/SGA fellowship to help train our young people in the important role of leadership and being missionaries.

Australia/Tahiti/New Zealand national board, by Soni

At the beginning of 2002‚ Australia‚ New Zealand, and Tahiti received a visit by Jeff (CO). This trip was to help inspire the freshly starting board vision in this area. The New Zealand and Tahiti Homes hadn't had a visit from a VS or CO in five years! They were still faithfully witnessing and establishing a work in their countries despite the lack of visitation, and were each doing their best to follow the new moves of the spirit closely.

In Australia the Lord used the initial meetings to unite everyone and give them the vision for how much the Lord still wanted to accomplish on their field. Australia has nine CM Homes and 17 FM Homes. The main vision and goal for the Homes in Australia is to unite and work together to help reap the harvest of disciples that are there to be reached via Activated.

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Compiled by Adam and Steven, regional VS co-chairpersons, as well as Ariane

Thailand national board, by Steven and Ariane

There are 24 CM Homes and 22 FM Homes in Thailand and the surrounding countries. The VS team logged many miles this year showing the wonderful videos from our dear king and queen. Each Home in our national area received a VS visit during the months of August and September—a real victory!

In October we held a persecution prep seminar for all Homes in Thailand, in conjunction with the PR board, as a follow-up to the videos and the "Pray‚ Obey and Prepare" GN.

We held our first FM fellowship since the board vision for the eight FM Homes on the eastern seaboard.

We also held two meetings for Thai nationals this year. The first meeting's theme was praise and positiveness, more on the keys, and focusing on the power. The second meeting covered persecution prep.

A meeting was held (in conjunction with the CGO board) to confirm and restructure the outreach areas throughout Thailand.

Indochina pioneer efforts

From being a small one-Home pioneer situation‚ with additional personnel contributing talent, faith, and initiative, Cambodia has grown into a very potential field‚ with many open doors, tremendous witnessing opportunities to all levels of society, and very receptive people.

The work in some of the more sensitive surrounding countries in Indochina continues to grow miraculously. They have been blessed with additional personnel, and more are on the way. The Lit-Pics in these countries continue to faithfully produce the Word in the local language, both for the GP and the many friends who help us witness and get out our lit, as well as potential disciples.

Philippines national board‚ by Adam

Since the board vision, the PI VS board, with Adam, has visited nearly all of the eight CM and some of the six FM Homes twice, and some many more times. Two board meetings were held during this time.

More fellowship among the Homes has been encouraged and facilitated, resulting in greater unity within and between the Homes.

Indonesia national board, by Adam

The Indonesia VS team logged over 5,600 kilometers in their more than 25 visits to the six CM and two FM Homes last year. Adam also visited three times, totaling about six weeks of visitation. Three board meetings were held during this time.

The Lord also added to the host of helpers from the realm of the spirit with the graduation of Indonesian Michael‚ Sharon's mate, and said that He was going to use Michael to help activate the field of Indonesia.

SPANISH SOUTH AMERICA

Compiled by Juan, regional VS chairperson

The regional Spanish South American VS board is composed of two national VS boards that cover the entire Spanish South American continent.

The North Spanish South American national board covers the VEC area (three countries)‚ and has four VSs (three FGAs and one SGA); two are Colombian nationals, a Venezuelan national and a Spanish SGA national—two men and two women. They help to shepherd a total of 63 Homes (29 CM and 34 FM).

The South Spanish South American national board covers the ABCP area (five countries), and has three VSs (three FGAs); one Peruvian national, one Argentine national, and one Spanish national—two men and one woman. They help to shepherd a total of 66 Homes (42 CM and 24 FM).

Our northern national board was set up in March 2002 and our southern national board in late April. Since that time‚ our faithful VSs have visited all the countries and Homes in their respective areas.

Perhaps the biggest event of the year for our VS board members was the showing of the videos of Mama and Peter to all the Homes. This took a lot of prayer and planning, as traveling in South America is no easy task.

During our visitation to the Homes we have actively promoted the Conéctate vision‚ as well as tool distribution. The VSs, in conjunction with other boards, have hosted several area meetings such as city councils, inspirational meetings, tool distribution-related meetings, Christmas witnessing push, etc. These types of events have proven to be a key in helping to bring more unity to the area.

WEST EUROPE

Compiled by Naomi, regional VS chairperson

Fellowships/Happenings

Six fellowships for the CM and/or FM Family were held in Holland, Italy, Spain, and England. Over 500 Family members from Holland, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Switzerland, Italy‚ Greece, the BI‚ France, Belgium, and Scandinavia attended these fellowships.

Visitation

The VS boards in Western Europe have been very active, despite the fact that we have so few VSs in our area. We have approximately 80 CM Homes and 150 FM Homes in Western Europe, so VSing is a very big job.

The southern VS board consists of Andreas and Kitty, and James and Letizia (SGA trainees). They visited the Homes in Spain, Portugal, Switzerland‚ and some Homes in Northern Italy, as well as Germany. Besides this, they organized two major fellowships in their area (one in Spain and one in Italy), and attended to communications and the myriad of other VS tasks. Andreas and Kitty are also regional chairpersons of other boards, so they've been very busy, God bless them!

The northern VS board only has one VS at the moment, Meekness, who is also the chairperson of the national FED board. During the first half of the year, the Homes in Ireland were visited, as well as the Homes in Scandinavia, who hadn't received a VS visit in years—a real victory! Meekness visited most of the Homes in the BI, including the Homes in Ireland and Scotland. She also visited the Home in Finland, as well as organized a fellowship in England for the Homes in northwestern Europe.

There were also visitations to show Mama and Peter's videos. We had a number of Designated Representatives help with the video showing in the north, such as Mary Meek‚ Peter and Rose, and Gideon (of Lamb).

Copyright © 2003 by The Family

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