Church-Planting Missionary
by Pat Creed
The term church-planting missionary is used so often that it becomes a cliché. What does it really mean? Matthew 16:18 says, "And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." Ephesians 5:25 says, "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it...."
We read scripture like this and realize the importance of the church to God. We read in the book of Acts and see the importance of starting churches as the example is given. We read the Great Commission and see that we are commanded to start churches. We have no problem seeing what we are to do. The blessing is seeing it done.
Praise the Lord for BIMI missionaries throughout the Caribbean Islands who are used of God to plant Independent Baptist churches. We have so many who are involved in new church plants: the Chappells in Aruba, just beginning; the Smiths in Barbados; the Lindquists in Jamaica; nine families in the Dominican Republic, with the Johnsons just arriving and going to a city in the North part of the country (which is new for us), and the Longs are heading for Trinidad.
Think of what it means for a city without a Gospel-preaching church to have a church-planting missionary arrive. Lives will be changed, families changed, and communities changed. That is what Christ does through His church. A city with a church-planting, gospel-preaching, soul winning missionary is blessed of God.
We are certainly thankful for the many men and women who are giving their lives to God and going to a city on some island in the Caribbean to plant a New Testament, Independent Baptist church. This is the thrust of International Baptist Missions and it is our desire to see many called and carrying out this great task. Return to Top
by Pat Creed
The term church-planting missionary is used so often that it becomes a cliché. What does it really mean? Matthew 16:18 says, "And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." Ephesians 5:25 says, "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it...."We read scripture like this and realize the importance of the church to God. We read in the book of Acts and see the importance of starting churches as the example is given. We read the Great Commission and see that we are commanded to start churches. We have no problem seeing what we are to do. The blessing is seeing it done.
Praise the Lord for BIMI missionaries throughout the Caribbean Islands who are used of God to plant Independent Baptist churches. We have so many who are involved in new church plants: the Chappells in Aruba, just beginning; the Smiths in Barbados; the Lindquists in Jamaica; nine families in the Dominican Republic, with the Johnsons just arriving and going to a city in the North part of the country (which is new for us), and the Longs are heading for Trinidad.
Think of what it means for a city without a Gospel-preaching church to have a church-planting missionary arrive. Lives will be changed, families changed, and communities changed. That is what Christ does through His church. A city with a church-planting, gospel-preaching, soul winning missionary is blessed of God.
We are certainly thankful for the many men and women who are giving their lives to God and going to a city on some island in the Caribbean to plant a New Testament, Independent Baptist church. This is the thrust of International Baptist Missions and it is our desire to see many called and carrying out this great task. Return to Top
Dear Noteworthy Friends,
We have had a lot of rain so far this spring, and showers bring flowers and weeds. Weeds sometimes look just like plants that are coming up. I let them grow a little to see if they are weeds or flowers, then pull them up because they will choke out the flowers so they won't grow and bloom.
Our lives are like a flower garden and the weeds are the things that keep us from growing and blooming to our full potential. There are a lot of good things you can do, but they aren't the best things.
As women we have to prioritize our lives to determine what is most important. It's not easy, and it takes a lot of prayer and discipline.
Every day we need to pray about the things that will make our lives a beautiful garden for the Lord.
In Thessalonians 5:17-18, 21, it says, "Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Prove all things: hold fast that which is good."
Love and Prayers,
June Return to Top
We have had a lot of rain so far this spring, and showers bring flowers and weeds. Weeds sometimes look just like plants that are coming up. I let them grow a little to see if they are weeds or flowers, then pull them up because they will choke out the flowers so they won't grow and bloom.
Our lives are like a flower garden and the weeds are the things that keep us from growing and blooming to our full potential. There are a lot of good things you can do, but they aren't the best things.
As women we have to prioritize our lives to determine what is most important. It's not easy, and it takes a lot of prayer and discipline.
Every day we need to pray about the things that will make our lives a beautiful garden for the Lord.
In Thessalonians 5:17-18, 21, it says, "Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Prove all things: hold fast that which is good."
Love and Prayers,
June Return to Top
4 lbs. green and red seedless grapes
18 oz. sour cream
18 oz. Philadelphia cream cheese
18 oz. cool whip (or whipping cream)
1/3 c. of sugar
Soak grapes in cold water for 4 hours. Drain and take off vine. Mix in sour cream, cream cheese and sugar. Then fold in cool whip. Chill and serve.
This is a very simple and delicious. You can put in nuts if you like. Return to Top
18 oz. sour cream
18 oz. Philadelphia cream cheese
18 oz. cool whip (or whipping cream)
1/3 c. of sugar
Soak grapes in cold water for 4 hours. Drain and take off vine. Mix in sour cream, cream cheese and sugar. Then fold in cool whip. Chill and serve.
This is a very simple and delicious. You can put in nuts if you like. Return to Top
by Shirleen Godfrey
Carl and I, along with our children Carl and Sheila, came to the Bahamas in June 1965 as missionaries. Later, the Lord blessed us with a son Tim and daughter Michele. Our ministry was with the Haitian people. Because of the poverty in the country of Haiti, people were willing to risk their lives coming on small sailboats into the Bahamas where work was available. We went to Nassau, Bahamas, in l968 to take over the Haitian ministry there when the missionary left for medical reasons.
In October, 1973, Calvary Haitian Baptist Church on West Avenue was started. During those early days, busses and vans were used to transport the people to church. Very few of our people had cars at that time. Visitation was done and the church grew with many accepting Jesus as their Saviour. Pretty soon, we needed more room and so the second story to the church was added.
In November, 1988, my husband was diagnosed with cancer and Pastor Henri began taking more responsibility for the ministry. In November 1990, his doctor in the U. S. told him that nothing more could be done for him. He told Dr. Lasky that God had called him to pastor the Haitian people in 1965 and that he was going back home to the Bahamas to be with them until the Lord called him Home. With the approval of the Committee of Calvary Haitian Baptist Church, Carl turned the work over to Pastor Cher-Aime. It was an easy transition, as they had worked so closely together through the years and they had become one.
The Haitian ministry that God called him to in 1965 has grown beyond anything that we could imagine! How true Jeremiah 33:3 is! Truly, God has given Pastor Henri wisdom in reaching out not only to Nassau but other areas too. Under the ministry of Pastor Henri, Resurrection Baptist, Coral Harbour Baptist and Solid Rock Baptist was started in the outlying areas of Nassau. There is also a work at Eleuthera, Bahamas.
On Saturday, February 9, 1991, my husband went Home to be with His Lord whom he had served so faithfully for over forty years.
When the Lord called him Home, I knew in my heart that the call was upon my life to still continue to be part of this ministry started so many years ago. I am involved in working with the children, as well as visiting and working closely with Pastor Henri in the many areas of the ministry there. Two years ago we started working with the older teens who had a love for teaching and they are being used now in the classes. This was such a needed area and it has been a blessing to watch them grow and learn. We have evening classes, training workers in many different areas. This has really grown a lot.
Because of work permits needed in the Bahamas, this is an ongoing problem as many of our people do not have them and are subject to being deported.
GOD has made it possible for BIBLES to be available to our different churches. This has been a real answer to prayer as many of these cannot afford BIBLES. One Sunday was BIBLE Sunday and they were given to all in Sunday school.
My heart's desire is to be part of this great work as long as GOD'S perfect will is done in my life and for these works. Each and every facet of the work is a blessing from above.
It is a privilege to be part of Baptist International Missions, Inc., and see it grow these many years. Truly, GREAT THINGS HE HATH DONE. Return to Top
Carl and I, along with our children Carl and Sheila, came to the Bahamas in June 1965 as missionaries. Later, the Lord blessed us with a son Tim and daughter Michele. Our ministry was with the Haitian people. Because of the poverty in the country of Haiti, people were willing to risk their lives coming on small sailboats into the Bahamas where work was available. We went to Nassau, Bahamas, in l968 to take over the Haitian ministry there when the missionary left for medical reasons.In October, 1973, Calvary Haitian Baptist Church on West Avenue was started. During those early days, busses and vans were used to transport the people to church. Very few of our people had cars at that time. Visitation was done and the church grew with many accepting Jesus as their Saviour. Pretty soon, we needed more room and so the second story to the church was added.
In November, 1988, my husband was diagnosed with cancer and Pastor Henri began taking more responsibility for the ministry. In November 1990, his doctor in the U. S. told him that nothing more could be done for him. He told Dr. Lasky that God had called him to pastor the Haitian people in 1965 and that he was going back home to the Bahamas to be with them until the Lord called him Home. With the approval of the Committee of Calvary Haitian Baptist Church, Carl turned the work over to Pastor Cher-Aime. It was an easy transition, as they had worked so closely together through the years and they had become one.
The Haitian ministry that God called him to in 1965 has grown beyond anything that we could imagine! How true Jeremiah 33:3 is! Truly, God has given Pastor Henri wisdom in reaching out not only to Nassau but other areas too. Under the ministry of Pastor Henri, Resurrection Baptist, Coral Harbour Baptist and Solid Rock Baptist was started in the outlying areas of Nassau. There is also a work at Eleuthera, Bahamas.
On Saturday, February 9, 1991, my husband went Home to be with His Lord whom he had served so faithfully for over forty years.
When the Lord called him Home, I knew in my heart that the call was upon my life to still continue to be part of this ministry started so many years ago. I am involved in working with the children, as well as visiting and working closely with Pastor Henri in the many areas of the ministry there. Two years ago we started working with the older teens who had a love for teaching and they are being used now in the classes. This was such a needed area and it has been a blessing to watch them grow and learn. We have evening classes, training workers in many different areas. This has really grown a lot.
Because of work permits needed in the Bahamas, this is an ongoing problem as many of our people do not have them and are subject to being deported.
GOD has made it possible for BIBLES to be available to our different churches. This has been a real answer to prayer as many of these cannot afford BIBLES. One Sunday was BIBLE Sunday and they were given to all in Sunday school.
My heart's desire is to be part of this great work as long as GOD'S perfect will is done in my life and for these works. Each and every facet of the work is a blessing from above.
It is a privilege to be part of Baptist International Missions, Inc., and see it grow these many years. Truly, GREAT THINGS HE HATH DONE. Return to Top
We thank the Lord for His blessings these past few months. I spent 3 weeks in March in the Dominican Republic. During that time, we celebrated our church's 2nd anniversary with a high attendance of 120. The Lord blessed and we had people saved and baptized that day. We rejoice to see the growth in the church and the faithfulness of our people during our absence. We thank the Lord for the good work the Schepers are doing in the church while we are in the U.S.
We are now in the fourth phase of Stephen's chemo. It is a two month cycle of more intense treatments. Please pray for him that the Lord will give him grace to get through this time. When this cycle is over, he should only have to be on a "maintenance dose" of chemo for a period of about 2/12 years.
We are working out the details to be able to continue his maintenance chemo in the Dominican Republic. We are hoping to go back in October or November. We covet your prayers for wisdom as we make these decisions and for the Lord's blessings as I am travelling and reporting to our churches. Return to Top
We are now in the fourth phase of Stephen's chemo. It is a two month cycle of more intense treatments. Please pray for him that the Lord will give him grace to get through this time. When this cycle is over, he should only have to be on a "maintenance dose" of chemo for a period of about 2/12 years.
We are working out the details to be able to continue his maintenance chemo in the Dominican Republic. We are hoping to go back in October or November. We covet your prayers for wisdom as we make these decisions and for the Lord's blessings as I am travelling and reporting to our churches. Return to Top
by Howard ChappelAruba's publicity is widespread for numerous reasons, but being a haven for Christians and the Gospel is not among them. After looking at this island, most people would think that all is well. Unfortunately, most people would have it all wrong as there is a tremendous need for Christ and His saving power of salvation. After working on five other islands, I see it is apparent that Aruba has the greatest need of them all. Many tears have been shed for the islanders who are obviously in desperate need of our Savior. The challenges thus far have been overwhelming.
Getting into Aruba as missionaries was improbable, so God in His providence allowed us to get on the island as retired residents. He directed us to a house surrounded by neighbors who had asked God to send them a Bible teacher. They asked us to start a Bible study and then, three months later, followed up with a request to start a church. Hallelujah! The Lord graciously blessed us as we held Bible studies in our house over the course of eleven months. We have since expanded and gather together in three unique locations throughout the week. It is not without some difficulty, but God's grace is sufficient.
Our Heavenly Father has opened so many doors for us in the ministry that His love for the people is clearly demonstrated! Teaching in the teachers' college, helping with a fundraiser, using multiple puppets, teaching in a Catholic school, preaching the Gospel in rest homes, holding Vacation Bible Schools, and teaching instructors how to present the language of Papiamento to their students have been just a few of the many ways that God has engaged me in His work here. Cactus Kids Club and youth meetings occupy our Friday nights, and helping out with birthday parties has become an opportunity to show ourselves friendly to the neighborhood.Now regarding both the battles and the praises: we have been attacked on every side, but God has worked in wonderful ways each time we were tested. Teaching the "ABCs of Christian Growth" has helped the people who are predominantly from a Catholic background. Eighty-four percent of the people are professing Catholics. Renting a building here by the month is far too expensive; therefore, we meet in three different locations weekly. This itself is a battle.
We praise God that on the first Sunday of May 2009, several exciting events occurred. We voted on the church constitution along with the church's final name and had our first baptism (which included five people). As a result, four others have expressed a desire to be scripturally baptized as well. We look forward to the day when God allows us to start a Bible institute here in Aruba. Our son Stephen has a job on the island, and there is much anticipation as to how the Lord will use him in this ministry. There is much rejoicing for the five men our Father has given us along with the many women and children.
Return to Top
We are encouraged by what God has been doing in our ministry. During our short furlough God provided a very nice bus for our church and the money to ship it as well. Upon returning, we were informed that another church had decided to purchase a much needed generator for us. Praise the Lord! We are excited about the needs that God has met, including 5 new supporting churches. The most thrilling blessing so far has been seeing God move in the hearts of our people since being back. Last week we had our annual missions conference and God brought revival. The altar was full on Friday with those rededicating their hearts to God's work and to His will in their lives. Through many tears and testimonies, we saw God move and on Saturday we had 16 people come out for soul winning! On Sunday one lady who had received Christ the day before came with 2 family members and her sister got saved as well! We are amazed at what God has done and is doing at Abundant Life Baptist Church and are thankful to be part of His plan here in La Vega.
Stephen Brockell – Dominican Republic
Hallelujah, we have arrived!!! Kerri and I moved into our house on March 6, the day after my parents returned from furlough. The kids had to stay with their grandparents for another week while we prepared their room. Neither they nor Pawpaw or Mawmaw minded that too much. We are currently in our new house, but it is still a working project.
The number of salvations has dropped some in the past three months, but praise the Lord for those that were saved. One was our daughter!!! As they say here "Beni swa Letènèl!" (Praise the Lord). One of the young ladies in our church has a burden for the young girls and children in our neighborhood. Each Wednesday afternoon, a dedicated teenage lady in the church holds Bible club for any children who wish to come. On March 25, our three children attended. Micah can understand most of what is said in Creole, so he understood the story. After they got home, Micah retold the story in English and Katie began asking questions. Kerri was able to answer her questions, and Ethan informed her she had better not wait to get saved. He told her she needed to do it right away! Before the evening was over, our little Katie had accepted Christ as her Savior! Thank you to all who have been praying for the salvation of our children. Now all three are in the fold!
Benji Dryden – Haiti
With this semester ending, we bring to a close a big chapter in the history of Maranatha. After more than 30 years, we are closing the school to give ourselves completely to the church. The school was a blessing to the community and a place where a number of missionaries faithfully served over the years.
Al Hamilton -- Puerto Rico
We made it safely to the Dominican Republic on February 14, 2009. In just two short months we have been here, we have seen the Lord work in many special ways. First, we want to thank the Lord for many fellow BIMI missionaries who helped us get settled with our house and container. The process went so smoothly because we had really good people helping us. Also, within the last few weeks we have been able to see 4 people saved in our city, San Francisco de Macoris. We are now in the planning process for our upcoming ministry. We plan on starting a Bible study and kids club this June.
Erik and Holly Johnson – Dominican Republic
Greetings from Antigua in the heart of the Caribbean, which has become home for us after 42 years of ministry. We are grateful for what the Lord has done... 10 churches on the island of Antigua and an inter-island youth ministry which will be held on the island of Dominica in July of this year. We are presently involved in planting the Gray's Farm Fundamental Baptist in an area of the city of St. John's. Already GFFBC is involved in open-air and individual care ministries twice monthly. We go to the Mental Home every Thursday and God has wonderfully opened doors to the Government Schools and different members of Gray's Farm are involved in speaking in at least 7 schools weekly in addition to a Bible Club on Saturdays. We are involved in missions with 9 missionaries, while we are wading through the process of getting our little building registered. That is more involved than it once was. As one of our members said recently, "the fields are truly white unto harvest but we need more people to go through all the doors that are opening to us." We all need wisdom and strength. Our desire is to go through every door we can as we wait for the return of the Great God and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. We count it a privilege to be your servants for Jesus' sake. Praise the Lord.
Jerry and Scharmel Johnson – Antigua
Since our last prayer letter we presented our ministry to churches in Virginia, Illinois, Michigan, California, West Virginia, and Tennessee. We saw people saved during soul winning. People (especially some young people) made decisions about serving God and missions, and many people told us they were encouraged and blessed by our presentation. Four new churches have taken us on for monthly support so our support level is now 75%. Please pray for Daniel. While in Michigan, Daniel fell off a bike and broke his collarbone (nasty break with a 90% angle pointing upwards). Back in Maryland we saw an orthopedic doctor who is undecided about the course of action. Temporarily, Daniel is wearing a harness and a sling until we see the doctor again this week.
David Long – Trinidad
Things have been busier than ever here in Aguada, PR, and in Iglesia Bautista de Aguada. We have been able to take on a 2nd missionary and are hoping to take another on in June. We continue to grow slowly but surely and continue to see souls come to know the Lord. We are in the process of hunting for a building to purchase in the future, as we are outgrowing the facilities that we rent now. Please pray that God will show his will in this. We also have been able to start a small orchestra and choir recently, which have added greatly to the music program of the church. Pray also for a young man in the church, Luis, as he feels God has led him to attend Bible College this coming year to see what God might have for him in the future, possibly in the ministry. We are gearing up for a busy summer already. July is packed with groups from the States, coming for VBS, Teen camp, and ending with a Teen Conference. Please continue to pray that God continues to work in Puerto Rico.
The Sheltons – Puerto Rico
"Now also when I am old and greyheaded, O God, forsake me not: until I have shewed Thy strength unto this generation, and Thy power to everyone that is to come" Psalm 71:19. In the month of August this year, I will celebrate my 61st birthday and will begin my 40th year as a BIMI missionary. It is my prayer that the Lord will allow me to live many more years in order to share the gospel with as many people as possible. Throughout the past 39 years I have known many missionaries that have thrown in the towel and quit. I cannot understand this. The Lord called me to the mission field when I was 14 years old and because of what Christ has done for me, I must remain faithful to the end. Naturally, we may become weary in the work but should not become weary of the work.
Over the past few years, I have developed several physical problems which include a malignant tumor, problems with the pituitary gland, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism. Praise God, they tell me I am cancer free and haven't had problems with the pituitary gland in the last few years. However, each day I remember that the joy of the Lord is my strength.
For the first 16 years of missionary service, I served the Lord in the Bahamas. The next year and a half, I served Him in the Turks and Caicos Islands. For the past 21 years I have served Him in Puerto Rico. At present my ministries include: Sunday school superintendant for children's classes, Children's church, church pianist, preparation of and ordering of church materials, visitation, and the Source of Light Bible course. Throughout the years when I have become discouraged, the Lord has done something to encourage me. This year I have led 15 people to the Lord. One Catholic mother that has yet to come to our church is studying the Source of Light Bible course. She wrote in her testimony that since she accepted Christ, she is more peaceful and joyful.
Since we know that the effectual and fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much, please pray for the urgent need of a young couple to work with our teenagers, for the need of more physical strength, and above all for the need of more missionaries that will be faithful to the end.
Joan Whiteheart – Puerto Rico
Just a true story that you might enjoy—Last Thursday at home the phone rang, and I picked it up. The lady on the other end asked for another lady by name. I replied with a bit of humor that the person did not live at our home, but that I would be happy to go out and find someone with that name to call her back.
She laughed and said that would not be necessary but her call must have been to a wrong number. I quickly asked her if I could come to her house to invite her to our church. She gave me directions to her workshop (she does ladies' nails), and we set the appointment for Friday evening. Becca, my daughter, and I went together to the shop expecting to see just Carrie-ann, the lady to whom I had spoken. When we arrived, we were met at the door of the shop by a young girl who said, "You must be the preacher!" I said, "You ALL are expecting me?" The little shop was packed with ladies that seemed to be waiting for the preacher to come. She replied, "Carrie-ann told us you were coming!"
Well, after about an hour explaining of the gospel, eleven bowed their heads and asked the Lord Jesus to save them. It was my first time in a nail shop, but it was rather exciting.
Robert Smith – Barbados
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Stephen Brockell – Dominican Republic
Hallelujah, we have arrived!!! Kerri and I moved into our house on March 6, the day after my parents returned from furlough. The kids had to stay with their grandparents for another week while we prepared their room. Neither they nor Pawpaw or Mawmaw minded that too much. We are currently in our new house, but it is still a working project.
The number of salvations has dropped some in the past three months, but praise the Lord for those that were saved. One was our daughter!!! As they say here "Beni swa Letènèl!" (Praise the Lord). One of the young ladies in our church has a burden for the young girls and children in our neighborhood. Each Wednesday afternoon, a dedicated teenage lady in the church holds Bible club for any children who wish to come. On March 25, our three children attended. Micah can understand most of what is said in Creole, so he understood the story. After they got home, Micah retold the story in English and Katie began asking questions. Kerri was able to answer her questions, and Ethan informed her she had better not wait to get saved. He told her she needed to do it right away! Before the evening was over, our little Katie had accepted Christ as her Savior! Thank you to all who have been praying for the salvation of our children. Now all three are in the fold!
Benji Dryden – Haiti
With this semester ending, we bring to a close a big chapter in the history of Maranatha. After more than 30 years, we are closing the school to give ourselves completely to the church. The school was a blessing to the community and a place where a number of missionaries faithfully served over the years.
Al Hamilton -- Puerto Rico
We made it safely to the Dominican Republic on February 14, 2009. In just two short months we have been here, we have seen the Lord work in many special ways. First, we want to thank the Lord for many fellow BIMI missionaries who helped us get settled with our house and container. The process went so smoothly because we had really good people helping us. Also, within the last few weeks we have been able to see 4 people saved in our city, San Francisco de Macoris. We are now in the planning process for our upcoming ministry. We plan on starting a Bible study and kids club this June.
Erik and Holly Johnson – Dominican Republic
Greetings from Antigua in the heart of the Caribbean, which has become home for us after 42 years of ministry. We are grateful for what the Lord has done... 10 churches on the island of Antigua and an inter-island youth ministry which will be held on the island of Dominica in July of this year. We are presently involved in planting the Gray's Farm Fundamental Baptist in an area of the city of St. John's. Already GFFBC is involved in open-air and individual care ministries twice monthly. We go to the Mental Home every Thursday and God has wonderfully opened doors to the Government Schools and different members of Gray's Farm are involved in speaking in at least 7 schools weekly in addition to a Bible Club on Saturdays. We are involved in missions with 9 missionaries, while we are wading through the process of getting our little building registered. That is more involved than it once was. As one of our members said recently, "the fields are truly white unto harvest but we need more people to go through all the doors that are opening to us." We all need wisdom and strength. Our desire is to go through every door we can as we wait for the return of the Great God and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. We count it a privilege to be your servants for Jesus' sake. Praise the Lord.
Jerry and Scharmel Johnson – Antigua
Since our last prayer letter we presented our ministry to churches in Virginia, Illinois, Michigan, California, West Virginia, and Tennessee. We saw people saved during soul winning. People (especially some young people) made decisions about serving God and missions, and many people told us they were encouraged and blessed by our presentation. Four new churches have taken us on for monthly support so our support level is now 75%. Please pray for Daniel. While in Michigan, Daniel fell off a bike and broke his collarbone (nasty break with a 90% angle pointing upwards). Back in Maryland we saw an orthopedic doctor who is undecided about the course of action. Temporarily, Daniel is wearing a harness and a sling until we see the doctor again this week.
David Long – Trinidad
Things have been busier than ever here in Aguada, PR, and in Iglesia Bautista de Aguada. We have been able to take on a 2nd missionary and are hoping to take another on in June. We continue to grow slowly but surely and continue to see souls come to know the Lord. We are in the process of hunting for a building to purchase in the future, as we are outgrowing the facilities that we rent now. Please pray that God will show his will in this. We also have been able to start a small orchestra and choir recently, which have added greatly to the music program of the church. Pray also for a young man in the church, Luis, as he feels God has led him to attend Bible College this coming year to see what God might have for him in the future, possibly in the ministry. We are gearing up for a busy summer already. July is packed with groups from the States, coming for VBS, Teen camp, and ending with a Teen Conference. Please continue to pray that God continues to work in Puerto Rico.
The Sheltons – Puerto Rico
"Now also when I am old and greyheaded, O God, forsake me not: until I have shewed Thy strength unto this generation, and Thy power to everyone that is to come" Psalm 71:19. In the month of August this year, I will celebrate my 61st birthday and will begin my 40th year as a BIMI missionary. It is my prayer that the Lord will allow me to live many more years in order to share the gospel with as many people as possible. Throughout the past 39 years I have known many missionaries that have thrown in the towel and quit. I cannot understand this. The Lord called me to the mission field when I was 14 years old and because of what Christ has done for me, I must remain faithful to the end. Naturally, we may become weary in the work but should not become weary of the work.
Over the past few years, I have developed several physical problems which include a malignant tumor, problems with the pituitary gland, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism. Praise God, they tell me I am cancer free and haven't had problems with the pituitary gland in the last few years. However, each day I remember that the joy of the Lord is my strength.
For the first 16 years of missionary service, I served the Lord in the Bahamas. The next year and a half, I served Him in the Turks and Caicos Islands. For the past 21 years I have served Him in Puerto Rico. At present my ministries include: Sunday school superintendant for children's classes, Children's church, church pianist, preparation of and ordering of church materials, visitation, and the Source of Light Bible course. Throughout the years when I have become discouraged, the Lord has done something to encourage me. This year I have led 15 people to the Lord. One Catholic mother that has yet to come to our church is studying the Source of Light Bible course. She wrote in her testimony that since she accepted Christ, she is more peaceful and joyful.
Since we know that the effectual and fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much, please pray for the urgent need of a young couple to work with our teenagers, for the need of more physical strength, and above all for the need of more missionaries that will be faithful to the end.
Joan Whiteheart – Puerto Rico
Just a true story that you might enjoy—Last Thursday at home the phone rang, and I picked it up. The lady on the other end asked for another lady by name. I replied with a bit of humor that the person did not live at our home, but that I would be happy to go out and find someone with that name to call her back.
She laughed and said that would not be necessary but her call must have been to a wrong number. I quickly asked her if I could come to her house to invite her to our church. She gave me directions to her workshop (she does ladies' nails), and we set the appointment for Friday evening. Becca, my daughter, and I went together to the shop expecting to see just Carrie-ann, the lady to whom I had spoken. When we arrived, we were met at the door of the shop by a young girl who said, "You must be the preacher!" I said, "You ALL are expecting me?" The little shop was packed with ladies that seemed to be waiting for the preacher to come. She replied, "Carrie-ann told us you were coming!"
Well, after about an hour explaining of the gospel, eleven bowed their heads and asked the Lord Jesus to save them. It was my first time in a nail shop, but it was rather exciting.
Robert Smith – Barbados
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ATTENTIONField Conference 2010 June 14-18, 2010
Embassy Suites, Santo Domingo,
Dominican Republic
Attendance is required for all BIMI Caribbean missionaries
Mark your calendar Return to Top
by Gary Sprunger
Today much talk is focused on the economic recession that is evident world-wide. Although we are living in changing times, one thing still remains the same: it is the need of mankind to know the God of the universe through salvation in and through His Son, Jesus Christ. During the past three months, Joy and I have had the joy of witnessing to people from Southern Alabama to the Ohio River Valley and as far as Barbados. Many exciting things have happened in our lives.
In February Joy and I flew to the Dominican Republic to assist Pastor Alexis and Zaida Remigio finalize the plans and secure the materials for the new church project in Vietnam. It was a joy to preach to the church and to give out Spanish Bibles to those who didn't have one. The response was one we will never forget. The joy of owning one's own copy of the Bible was expressed through the beaming faces and huge smiles. During out time on the island, we also preached at Moute Calvario and visited the church that Josh and Joy Wession started. It was evident that the Lord is blessing in the Dominican Republic and souls are being redeemed. Our week in the DR was packed full of work, and the Lord supplied the contacts and materials so that the church in Vietnam could be build. A week after we left, Fundamental Baptist Builders brought a work team and finished drying in the building. Pastor Alexis and his people celebrated their first service in a dry building at the end of March.
While in the Dominican Republic, we were able to spend a little time with Eric and Holly Johnson. They were working on the customs release of their trailer. The following week, all was released and taken to San Francisco de Marconis. Already they are seeing God work in many wonderful ways.
Upon arriving home, we were busy in presenting missions in a number of churches. Although many people have been laid off or terminated, the Lord is supplying. I was researching what happened to foreign missions during the Great Depression. I found that the evangelical churches continued to give 3.5% of their income to foreign missions. In 2006, it was reported that only 2.5% of church income was going for foreign missions. Sad to say, we might have been in a spiritual depression long before the financial one hit. In spite of this statistic, we have seen churches seeking to expand and increase their commitments to reach the world for Christ. We need to remember that "What God calls for He will provide for." We just need to keep our eyes on Him and carefully walk hand in hand with Him.
At the writing of this article, Joy and I are in Barbados with Robert, Rhoda, Buddy and Becca Smith. The Lord has been doing some wonderful things here. Last night a young man accepted the Lord as his Saviour. Over 45 folks came out on Wednesday night for the beginning of this special meeting. At the invitation, the altar was full of folks making personal decisions. A sweet atmosphere was evident as folks lingered around for over an hour after the service. One young man told Pastor Smith that he and some others were going "Soul-winning" and that he didn't have to accompany them. They were taking it upon themselves to go out on their own. Although the cost of living is rising even in Barbados, the folks continue to expand their missions outreach. They are faithfully giving to buy land and build a facility that they can call their own. Until then, they are using a small private school facility.
I am reminded that Paul encouraged Timothy with these words: "Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life."
May we be found faithful even during this recession and realize that our Father is still rich. Return to Top
Today much talk is focused on the economic recession that is evident world-wide. Although we are living in changing times, one thing still remains the same: it is the need of mankind to know the God of the universe through salvation in and through His Son, Jesus Christ. During the past three months, Joy and I have had the joy of witnessing to people from Southern Alabama to the Ohio River Valley and as far as Barbados. Many exciting things have happened in our lives.
In February Joy and I flew to the Dominican Republic to assist Pastor Alexis and Zaida Remigio finalize the plans and secure the materials for the new church project in Vietnam. It was a joy to preach to the church and to give out Spanish Bibles to those who didn't have one. The response was one we will never forget. The joy of owning one's own copy of the Bible was expressed through the beaming faces and huge smiles. During out time on the island, we also preached at Moute Calvario and visited the church that Josh and Joy Wession started. It was evident that the Lord is blessing in the Dominican Republic and souls are being redeemed. Our week in the DR was packed full of work, and the Lord supplied the contacts and materials so that the church in Vietnam could be build. A week after we left, Fundamental Baptist Builders brought a work team and finished drying in the building. Pastor Alexis and his people celebrated their first service in a dry building at the end of March. While in the Dominican Republic, we were able to spend a little time with Eric and Holly Johnson. They were working on the customs release of their trailer. The following week, all was released and taken to San Francisco de Marconis. Already they are seeing God work in many wonderful ways.Upon arriving home, we were busy in presenting missions in a number of churches. Although many people have been laid off or terminated, the Lord is supplying. I was researching what happened to foreign missions during the Great Depression. I found that the evangelical churches continued to give 3.5% of their income to foreign missions. In 2006, it was reported that only 2.5% of church income was going for foreign missions. Sad to say, we might have been in a spiritual depression long before the financial one hit. In spite of this statistic, we have seen churches seeking to expand and increase their commitments to reach the world for Christ. We need to remember that "What God calls for He will provide for." We just need to keep our eyes on Him and carefully walk hand in hand with Him.
At the writing of this article, Joy and I are in Barbados with Robert, Rhoda, Buddy and Becca Smith. The Lord has been doing some wonderful things here. Last night a young man accepted the Lord as his Saviour. Over 45 folks came out on Wednesday night for the beginning of this special meeting. At the invitation, the altar was full of folks making personal decisions. A sweet atmosphere was evident as folks lingered around for over an hour after the service. One young man told Pastor Smith that he and some others were going "Soul-winning" and that he didn't have to accompany them. They were taking it upon themselves to go out on their own. Although the cost of living is rising even in Barbados, the folks continue to expand their missions outreach. They are faithfully giving to buy land and build a facility that they can call their own. Until then, they are using a small private school facility.
I am reminded that Paul encouraged Timothy with these words: "Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life."
May we be found faithful even during this recession and realize that our Father is still rich. Return to Top
Missionaries of the Day
Monday, March 15, 2010
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
KEITH & MARLA HERNDON - MOLDOVA
ANTHONY R & DAWN HESS - UKRAINE
KEVIN & MARY BETH HICKOK - BRAZIL
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
KEITH & MARLA HERNDON - MOLDOVA
ANTHONY R & DAWN HESS - UKRAINE
KEVIN & MARY BETH HICKOK - BRAZIL
Dr. Pat & June CreedAssistant Caribbean Director
Gary and Joy SprungerRead more about the Sprungers.
He can be contacted through the BIMI office
(423) 344-5050.
