A Treasure Was Taken

On Saturday evening, December 26th at 10:45 PM, a treasure was called home. Sis. Nona Freeman, veteran missionary to Africa and one of the best-loved writers in Pentecost, at the age of 93, passed from this life peacefully at home with her family around her.

Sister Freeman and her husband, Rev, E. L. (Bug) Freeman, began their life in missions work in 1948 in South Africa. They left the United States with their five children ranging in ages from nine years to six months, and spent the next forty-one years in Africa.

Even after Brother Freeman's death in 1999, Sister Freeman continued to travel, preach and speak. She served the Lord in ministry for seventy years and has touched thousands of lives. Only eternity will truly know the far-reaching impact this great lady had.

Please be in prayer for the Freeman family during this difficult time.

"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God."

Matthew 5:3-9

A Message from Nona

This is an update about Sister Nona Freeman’s condition. As you were advised on December 8, 2009 hospice has been called in to her, since then she has lost so much strength and is no longer able to even feed herself. This week a hospital bed was brought to her home to better care for her and she made the statement. ‘This is where I will go to meet God.’ At that time it did not seem it would be a reality but even today she is weakened. Unless it is the will of God to intervene her home going could be anytime due to her present condition. She is not in any pain but at times is non-responsive nor has the strength to communicate.

Next to Jesus and her ministry, her family, friends and supporters has always been her life. Per her own conversations to her staff this past week; it is her desire for her messages and devotionals on various forums to be continued. She personally spent time last week to prepare this and made the statement, ‘I have spent hours writing in airports, hotel rooms or other places for publications and recordings that I leave behind for the work of God. It is my desire my postings continue because so many are hurting and I won’t be here.’ True to her word, she has left months of prepared messages.

Some of her family is with her and are doing everything possible to see she is comfortable. Every conversation is about her longing to see Jesus then ‘My Bug’ her beloved husband of 62 years also now gone on to be with the Lord.

Where most of us have traveled areas she traveled CONTINENTS for the name of Jesus but now is anxious to reap her reward. Everyone is so supportive and the Nona Freeman family wants to advise everyone of her weakened condition because even they are shocked and asks for your prayers in the days ahead. Not only is it their mother, grandmother, etc., but a gospel legend that has blazed the Apostolic trail for us to follow.

Anyone desiring to do so may leave a message or comment. What better time to say, ‘Thank you for giving to the Lord’ to Sister Nona Freeman; and to her beloved family’s thanks for sharing her with the world.’

Pray for the Philippines

John and Deborah Wolfram have a heart for world missions. They have been able to minister to the masses, as well as one-on-one, in more than 30 nations around the world since the early 1980's.

One of the highlights of their ministry came in the early 1990's when they helped take the gospel to the war torn nation of Vietnam, where in 1968-1970 he had served two terms with Underwater Demolition Team 11 (Navy SEAL's).

For more information about their ministry please visit them on the web at www.johnwolfram.org.

Currently Missionary Wolfram is on location in The Philippines. Recently he sent this prayer request regarding our brothers and sisters in that part of the world.

I am amazed how third world countries have a way of facing tragedy with such grace and dignity.

Deborah and I have witnessed the worst storm to hit the Philippines in 40 years. Most everyone here agrees that the government’s estimates of deaths are way below the body counts of the various towns and barrios.

Just last night, I went to be with a family who two weeks ago witnessed several miracles. When “Ondoy” hit they were hosting an all night prayer meeting. By early morning their house was completely underwater, broken apart and swept away along with dozens of others that were built on the river’s edge.

The swift current pulled the family members apart as they fought to stay above water. A frantic elderly grandmother grabbed a piece of floating debris. She also held in her arms a terrified four-year old girl named Maiden Grace.

Divine providence provided a small washbasin to float by in arm's reach. She placed the tiny Maiden Grace inside and said a prayer as the current separated her from the child. In the hordes of bodies being pushed downstream a man grabbed the small ark and placed his own little girl in the basin as well, almost capsizing the flimsy craft. Together all three rode the current for over nine hours as he steadied the basin with one hand while holding on to a piece of floating wood with the other. After a cold frightful night the little girl’s mother, father and grandmother were rescued but separated.

No one knew whether or not each other survived or drowned for three long days. After a lengthy search all of them were reunited. Their greatest surprise was little Maiden Grace was also alive. Not all of their family and friends were so fortunate. One hundred and twenty of their fellow villagers in the Paltok barrio drown or were electrocuted from the many live electric wires submerged in the water. Their amazing miracle was dampened this past Saturday when the thirty-nine-year-old father, Fernando Jemido died from an infection caused by a cut in his foot during his heroic effort to stay alive throughout a dark, chilly night.

Though the floodwaters have subsided in many places, and the clean-up has allowed thousands of people to return to a more normal life, thousands more are still homeless or fighting for their lives. A former Bible school student also has succumbed to this water born disease (leptospirosis) because he didn’t have enough money to pay for a blood transfusion.

This past Wednesday I took two-dozen Bible school students to a displacement center in Barangay Tatalon, Quezon City to feed and encourage the homeless. After the students joined each dejected family on the floor amid cardboard boxes and plastic bags of salvaged or donated goods to share a personal Bible study, we had church. Entire families were baptized. The local pastor, Elsie Pestano has 15 families in her assembly alone, whose houses burnt down after electrical wires set fire to their flooded homes.

If you compound this calamity by several hundred churches on Luzon, plus thousands of saints, you can get a better picture of what many of our unfortunate brothers and sisters are going through.

Please continue to keep these precious souls in your prayers.

This Week's Missionary Focus, October 11th - 17th

Joseph Bir, a 1978 graduate of Texas Bible College, and his wife, Loretta, worked in a Christian school and served as assistant pastors before they pioneered a home missions work.

They received their appointment as United Pentecostal Church missionaries to Paraguay in May 1986. This appointment resulted from the Birs’ long-standing foreign missions burden. Following a year of language study in Costa Rica, the Birs arrived in Paraguay in December 1988. He is now the field superintendent and “is involved in just about all aspects of ministry.” He also serves as the area coordinator for the South America’s Southern Cone, which encompasses Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay.

Loretta Bir is involved in children’s and ladies’ ministries and teaches in the Bible school. She can usually be found translating material into Spanish late at night and in the wee hours of the morning.

This Week's Missionary Focus

The Stephen Bennett family has served 15 years with foreign missions in the Middle East while Lloy has spent 25 years in the region.

They have pioneered works in Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates and have completed a year and a half of Arabic language study. Steve served on the district board as vice president of the UPC of the Gulf States.

In partnership with Home Missions Division, the Bennett family, including their two daughters, are the voices behind various characters in many of the episodes of then ew "Kids Power Up" radio series. The Bennetts look forward to continuing the harvest in Israel/Palestine as superintendent of the Arabic works as well as serving as adjunct professor for the Jerusalem Biblical College.

This Week's Missionary Focus

The Stephen Bennett family has served 15 years with foreign missions in the Middle East while Lloy has spent 25years in the region.

They have pioneered works in Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates and have completed a year and a half of Arabic language study. Steve served on the district board as vice president of the UPC of the GulfStates.

In partnership with Home Missions Division, the Bennett family, including their two daughters, are the voices behind various characters in many of the episodes of the new "Kids Power Up" radio series. The Bennetts look forward to continuing the harvest in Israel/Palestine as superintendent of the Arabic works as well as serving as adjunct professor for the Jerusalem Biblical College.

This Week's Missionary Focus

Samuel Balca, a native-born Yugoslavian with Canadian citizenship and the son of John Balca, has a long-standing burden for the people of Europe. He and his wife, Pat, who are both skilled linguists, have been involved in evangelizing and training Europeans since 1971.

They received their appointment as UPCI missionaries to Eastern Europe in 1979, and he served as the area coordinator for 16 nations of Eastern Europe. The Balcas resided in Budapest, Hungary and traveled extensively throughout Eastern Europe.

The collapse of communism in Eastern Europe has opened unlimited opportunities to encourage, evangelize and train the 132.5 million people behind the former Iron Curtain.

In September 2003, the Balcas’ appointment was changed to France and Monaco. The Balcas live near Paris and teach in the Bible school while helping to establish the United Pentecostal Church in the new field of Monaco.

A Miracle for the Marquez Family

On November 17, 2008, I woke up with an intense feeling as if someone was stabbing my head with a knife. I was admitted into the hospital in Costa Rica, and many things were told to us during that time. From a bleeding vein in my head-to a stroke we heard it all. The left side of my face twitched uncontrollably and dropped during this time. I was experiencing severe weakness , and had to do physical therapy after being released from the hospital. We spent Thanksgiving in Costa Rica, but instead of getting better, I was getting worse.

Bro. Howell and Bro. Hopkins expressed their concern, and asked us to return home for medical attention. Upon arrival to the states, intense medical exams began. My doctor told me that the medicine given to me in Costa Rica was causing different reactions in my body, and 2 of them were not approved in the United States, due to the adverse side affects, which I was experiencing.

In January, I began to have seizures. We did not know what was going on. A preliminary EEG showed abnormalities, something that had been also noticed in Costa Rica. I was put on 1000 mg of Depakote a day. The seizures continued to worsen. My neurologist changed my medicine from 1000 mg of Depakote to 200 mg of Topamax. I then had my first gran mal seizure. The Topamax was upped to 500 mg. On February 9, I had 3 seizures. the Topomax was upped to 850. On February 10th, I had 4 more consecutive seizures, and my neurologist had me go into the ER. I was admitted. During my CT scan I had another seizure while the exam was being done. On that day I had 7 seizures in all.

They started testing me. I didn't know then, but later my neurologist told me that because of all of the consecutive seizures, and since my white blood cell count was so low, they thought I had a tumor in my brain.

THANK God-He is an ever present, all powerful God, and has His hand upon me at all times!
After the testing no signs of tumors were found!

After having a 72 hour EEG, the doctors switched my medicine all over again, and I was released on Valentine's Day from Baylor hospital.

The seizures did not stop, but were more controlled due to the medicine.

Then on February 27th, we were in Lake Charles, La, with our good friends, Rigo and Lettie Martinez (retired missionaries to Mexico). That day I had 2 seizures, one that left me unconscious on the floor. The next day was Sunday, and we ministered in their service, and then went on to Sunday night service with Pastor and Sis. Glen and Madonna Massey, where Bro. Jason Sciscoe was preaching. There was a tremendous move of God.

How many of us go to a service, hear the last song, see the lights being turned off, and think that God is done for the night? Well, that is EXACTLY what I thought. I had put my energy into the services, and I was feeling not so great by then. We went to shake Bro. Sciscoe's hand. My husband conversed with him, and he asked if we were on deputation. My husband said, "No, my wife has been quite ill. Bro. Sciscoe turned to me, and asked me to place my hands in his. I did. He started rebuking the spirit of illness. When he did that, I felt as if I was going to have a seizure right there on the platform. He grabbed my hands tighter, and said, "spirit of illness, I rebuke you in the name of Jesus, leave her body NOW." This second time, I felt as if a hand reached into my chest, and pulled the illness out of my body.

When I went into see my neurologist 4 months ago, he said, "Jessica, how are you?" I told him, "the Lord healed me." He said, "oh, really how many seizures have you had in the last few weeks? (I had had 12 in the two weeks prior to my healing) Dr. Salmon then said, "well, we'll see in a month, if still no seizures, I'll believe that God has healed you."

In that month I had NOT ONE seizure. PRAISE BE TO HIM! I walked into my doctor's office again. He asked if I had any seizures during that month. I told him no. He said, "Well, Jessica, since you had been having so many seizures, and you have not had any whatsoever in the past month, I also believe that God has healed you...."

I have been seizure free for 4 months now, and my neurologist has signed my medical release form to return back to the field....

I can say with all assurance..."We serve an ALL POWERFUL, ALL HEALING, ALL Glorious God!"

Tanzania Flash-Point

Prayers of the RIGHTEOUS...

Tabora - 2 people healed! 1 person could not walk and had to be carried. This person came to church, was brought forward for prayer and left COMPLETLY HEALED! 3 people have recieved the Holy Ghost in 1 church!



MARA - A small child had been having SEVERE stomach problems, and after prayer, the Lord touched him, and he was healed!!



IRINGA- 23 people received the Holy Ghost - 15 were CHILDREN!
But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven Matthew 19:14

Prayer Request

Update on Steve and Barbara Willoughby:

Thank you for your continuing prayers and show of support and love to the Willoughby’s.

After recovering from the surgery to insert the portacath, Sis Barbara Willoughby commenced her new chemotherapy regime on Wednesday, 6 May 2009.

Last week was a particularly difficult week for Sis Willoughby as she suffered from a severe reaction to the chemotherapy with nausea, loss of appetite, muscle weakness and dehydration.

On Wednesday, 13 May 2009, she saw her oncologist who gave her an IV infusion to rehydrate her. Because her white blood counts were very low, she was unable to proceed with the next chemotherapy cycle.

She will be reassessed to see whether she can continue with chemotherapy on Wednesday.

Prior to the commencement of chemotherapy, a blood test was done to measure Sis Willoughby’s CEA tumour markers. Despite not having any drug therapy for 3 weeks prior, the results showed that her tumour markers had dropped from 286 to 196. Sis Willoughby and her oncologist were very encouraged by these results.

A short update on Bishop Willoughby … for the past two and a half weeks Bro Willoughby has had increasing weakness in his left leg which at times causes his leg to drag, he finds it difficult to climb stairs and his balance is affected. Alarmed at this development, the oncologist ordered a MRI. The MRI was performed on Wednesday, 13 May 2009. The results showed that there is no reoccurrence or growth of any new tumours in Bro Willoughby’s brain. What the scan did show however was an increase rather than a reduction in the swelling in his brain. Bro Willoughby has resumed steroid therapy and the radiologist and oncologist at Memorial Sloan-Kettering have been consulted to provide an opinion on the brain swelling.

Let us not be discouraged and say that God is not doing His part. He is but we must also recognize that a daily battle wages. A battle for supremacy between Fear and Faith. Some days, it appears that Fear has the upper hand and that Faith has quietly crept away abandoning us to our worst imagined fears. But a curious thing then happens. We are reminded or we suddenly see the small blessings of the day and gratitude arises and Faith reappears. It is not easy to battle Fear. It’s not easy to ignore his whispers that ‘things will never change’, ‘you are losing the fight’ or his best line, ‘just stop fighting and give up’. For every one of Fear’s whispers, we must utter the name of Jesus. We must believe that and live like fear can be defeated.

The prayer pointers for this week are as following:

1 That Bishop Willoughby will not have to undergo surgery to address the brain swelling.
2 That Sis Willoughby will have no further severe reactions to the chemotherapy.
3 That in addition to physical strength, God will grant them extraordinary emotional strength to overcome unexpected challenges.
4 That in the daily battle for supremacy, Faith will triumph.
5 That the Willoughbys will stay in their position of authority as God’s children and servants.
6 That all the God-given dreams, visions and promises given to the Willoughbys that the enemy has attempted to archive will come alive in their minds and spirits as they embrace the fact that the best is still to come in their lives and ministries.

Friends, in life, there are many uncertainties. But there is one certainty that the enemy cannot take from us – we win.

May you continue to fight.

Sandra
On behalf of Tabernacle of Joy, Singapore

Praise Report from Sri Lanka

Praise Report

From J. Prince Mathiasz (Sri Lanka/Eastern Europe):

It is with gratitude and thanksgiving, we praise God for the ending of a three decade long civil war which wrecked the nation of Sri Lanka. This war which began just two weeks after our arrival on the field to begin our very first term of missionary work just ended this week. The death of so many and the destruction of this beautiful island was very heart-wrenching and beyond comprehension.

The church in Sri Lanka and our International Fellowship had not ceased in their prayer efforts to see this war come to an end and see democracy, peace and normalcy return to this pearl of the Indian Ocean.

Thank you UPCI for all your prayers, letters of encouragement during the trouble times of civil war and terrorism in Sri Lanka. We are grateful to all of our leaders, pastors, brothers, sisters and friends of this great world-wide fellowship for your concern, and burden for the nation and the church in Sri Lanka. We thank everyone who called this week sharing their joy and prayer support.

We are so blessed to be a small part of such a great and wonderful family of God's people.
Please continue to pray that God will help, guide and bless the leaders of this nation as they face the monumental task of finding an acceptable solution to all sections of the people and rebuilding the nation so that the yearning and the dreams of living normal lives of the citizens of this country will come to fruition. People are optimistic and your prayers are very much appreciated.

Togo/Central African Report

Greetings to all of our precious friends in the Name of Jesus!

This update brings exciting news!

A few weeks back, we had a worker in our home. We got on the discussion of baptism. He asked for some literature. He then took the tracts to his pastor. After reading the tracts, the pastor requested a meeting/Bible Study with us.

Great News...At the end of this month, Pastor Simeon will be re-baptizing his church family in the Name of Jesus!!! On the Sunday that we visited his church, we had 3 receive the Holy Ghost, 4 testified of instant healings, and 2 stood and testified that after the sermon, they felt that 'skin had been removed from their eyes' as they saw the true One God! Incredible!!! God is doing great things in Togo and we are thrilled to serve here with the Adam's!

As you can imagine, the devil has not sat idly by throughout the revelation of the One God to Pastor Simeon. You may have noticed that our family was the prayer focus on the FMD Prayer Calendar for this past Sunday. We are praising the Lord for the prayer covering that was over us. Read below the story of our 'break in' on Sunday night. Please, note that here in Togo, being caught as a thief is a major crime. They generally take the thief out, put old tires around him, and burn him to death. Mike has already witnessed "a burning" in our first 5 months here in Togo! If you are a thief, you do not want to get caught!

Break-In: It seems three intruders climbed through a window in the children's bathroom around 1:30am this morning (Sunday night). The bathroom connects Hannah and the boys bedrooms. The intruders rummaged through the children's bedrooms storing their items in the bathroom until the get away. Apparently, a neighbor across the street saw them enter the window and called the police. (Although no one will fess up to calling the police now so we could get a statement.)

As the police arrived, the intruders fled via the stairwell to our roof and jumped onto another roof from there. They left their bag and flash light behind. Thankfully, the children were not awakened (this is a miracle of God, as you know how violent the African's can become when confronted). Hannah was asleep in her bed. Tied to the theives' bag, was a 'gag rag'..........

God is so good to us and surely his angels were keeping guard! As far as we can tell, the only thing they successfully stole was a gas tank for the stove that was hooked to the grill outside.
Of course, the kids are upset and scared. We ask you to please pray for our family, as we try to settle everyone back down. Bro. Adam's has been with us, guiding us through the process of how to handle this situation. Thank the Lord for the Adam's!

We want you to know that all is well and God is doing great things in Togo! Thank you so much for your love, prayers and support. We cannot be successful without you standing with us! We are very thankful for our Mission/Church Family!

Faithful to the Name and Cause of Christ,
Michael and Danan
Togo/Central African Republic

Prayer Request from Mexico

Prayer Requests

From Superintendent T.W.Drost (Mexico):

Please pray for our people during this serious outbreak of the swine flu in Mexico - which has expanded.

In news conferences, over the past few days government officials seem to be reporting a bit more honestly than before, and now they are confirming over 150 deaths with the swine flu in Mexico City, and over 2,000 confirmed infected.

Thus far, Mexico is the only country that is reporting any deaths on account of the swine flu but, the more alarming news is that, they now have reported cases in over half of the 32 States in Mexico (the country) which increases the potential for greater harm.

We request your prayers for the over 80,000 baptized believers that we now have in all of Mexico, in over 750 Churches.

We are believing God for His protection. Also, the government has now directly prohibited any gathering of people (to reduce the spread of the disease), which means that we are not allowed to have services.

This prohibition has been declared for the entire country. Various district-wide events, that had been planned for this weekend, and for some time in some of our districts, have been canceled. That, of course, affects our people.

Prayer Request

Prayer Requests

From Georgene Shalm (Pakistan/Afghanistan): Please pray for the Christians in Pakistan.

I have just had a call from a pastor in Karachi. Yesterday the Taliban surrounded a church in one of the outlying areas of the city where mostly Christians (of all denominations) live, and where we have a UPC pastor and several families.

The Taliban harassed the people and forced many of them to leave their homes. Guns were fired and one child was killed; many, many more were injured. They have asked that our missionary family would especially remember them in prayer, that they would be strong in the face of persecution and that the Lord would protect them.

Africa Report

Africa Revival Reports April 2009

GETTING TO KNOW OUR MISSIONARIES:

David & Alice Kline

The Klines arrived in Africa in November 1994 as Associates in Missions. Brother Kline taught in the Bible schools in Zambia and Zimbabwe and evangelized in different churches on weekends. Over 100 people were filled with the Holy Ghost in their weekend services.

Equatorial Guinea ~Regional Missionary Brother Mua & Area Coordinator Jim Poitras

The church is experiencing growth. Four were baptized in Jesus' Name and two received the Holy Ghost. Others have given testimonies of healing and being delivered by the power of God.

Gabon~Regional Missionary Brother Desire & Area Coordinator Randy Adams

A woman was baptized on Easter Sunday morning and came out of the water speaking in tongues.

Ghana ~Jim Poitras, Colleen Carter, & Nick Sisco families

Thirteen received the Holy Ghost at a regional all night service. Three received the Holy Ghost at a Bible school students church.

Guinea ~Reported by Albert S.

During a special revival service in the capital city, four were baptized in Jesus' name and six received the Holy Ghost. Guinea is a predominantly Muslim country.

Kenya ~ Jim Crumpacker & Patrick Groves families

Easter Regional Conference had over 600 in attendance. Sixty-four received the Holy Ghost and twenty were baptized in Jesus' Name.

Lesotho ~David Kline family

Certificates were awarded to those who completed the New Life classes and Sunday school teacher training. This month's focus was on water baptism. Thirty-six were baptized in Jesus' name and eight were filled with the Holy Ghost.

Liberia ~ Albert S. family

During regular church services twenty-three were baptized in Jesus' name and twelve received the Holy Ghost.

Nigeria ~ Gerry McLean family

Fifty-five were baptized in Jesus' name at a weekend revival. There are many new students at the Bible school, most who have never had any contact with the UPCI. Eight new students were baptized in Jesus' Name and nine were filled with the Holy Ghost. Three former trinitarian ministers were baptized in Jesus' Name.

Togo ~ Randy Adams family

During a Sunday morning service, eight received the Holy Ghost and ten testified of healing. As a result of the Radio ministry, seven more have been baptized in Jesus' name. During an Easter weekend revival, three adults and one child received the Holy Ghost.

Zambia ~Gary Abernathy family

During two separate prayer conferences, a total of sixty received the Holy Ghost and twenty-two were baptized in Jesus' Name.

Zimbabwe ~Tremayne Simoneaux family

Easter General Conference had one of its largest attendances ever. Twenty-six received the Holy Ghost and seventy were baptized in Jesus' Name. This was the most ever baptized in a Zimbabwe conference.

Mexi-Gram

The month of March 2009 was one of great victory in the Central District - which covers Mexico City. This city with its teaming 20 to 22 million people is a harvest field for the Gospel.

On March 16 we had a District Congress with over 2,500 in attendance: 118 received the baptism of the Holy Spirit and 19 were baptized. But, we also rejoiced in many healings and miracles. Three different people got up and walked out of their wheel-chairs! Many other miracles were reported. Here is a picture of one of the services:

We are so excited with the way the Churches are growing here in the Central District, where we also pastor a Church right in the heart of Mexico City. We now have over 70 Churches and Missions with over 80 Pastors and Ministers. Also, we have over 5,100 baptized in the Precious Name of Jesus.

Every first Saturday of the month we have a Monthly Pastors' meeting where all the Pastors come together for fellowship, reports and inspiration. This past meeting, the Pastors reported a total of 368 baptized and 264 received the Holy Spirit during the month of March 2009 – that’s just in Mexico City! In the former month of February 2009, we had 255 baptized in Jesus' Name. To God be the glory!

Please continue to pray for more Revival in Mexico - and especially Mexico City.

Tanzania Flash-Point

Dear Partners,

It is with great joy that the church of Tanzania welcomes back Bro. and Sis. Smoak!!!
After a year and a half of traveling, they are finally back in the country.

Bro. and Sis. Robertson wish to express a heartfelt THANK YOU to all of you who kept their family in prayer over the past few months. Here are a few updates:

*Chva'na and Tessa have recently enrolled in Sanford-Brown University, studying Dentistry and Dental Assisting respectivly.

*Kaylah has been given a clean bill of health and has returned to work after several months of medical leave.

*Kandra is enjoying time alone with Mom and Dad. She hopes to complete her High School education by the end of this summer!

Revival Fires Spreading Across Tanzania!

Dar es Salaam - Pastor Kashalilika has been giving Bible studies to 2 police officers. These officers have been attending faithfully for the past year!

Tanga - The church has tripled in the last year and God has used Pastor Omari greatly. In the past few months, 2 other preaching points have been opened and 6 new people have started attending the newly established home fellowship groups.



Kilimanjaro- While recently attending a church in the village of Malula, an elderly man came to the front to be prayed for. He has severe problems with his eyes. After a few moments of prayer, he returned to his seat. At the end of the service, he told his pastor, Pastor Kashili, that his eyesight had improved after the prayer!!!!

Thank God for His mighty power!

From crusades in corn fields, to power packed prayer meetings, and little mud church buildings full and overflowing...

REJOICE with us as we watch what God is going to do in the coming months of this year!!

Prayer Requests

From Phillip Rhoads (Suriname):
Please pray for my dad, Milton Rhoads, who is undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatment for stage four cancer.

From Theresa Richardson (Mauritius/Reunion/Seychelles):
Please pray for our grandson, Ethan, (son of Joel and Lisa, missionaries to Gabon).

One of his ear drums ruptured and the other ear has an acute infection. The Dr. has put him on strong antibiotics. Pray for complete healing and that he has no hearing loss. Thank you.

Update on Corliss Williams, wife of C. Patton Williams, Florida District superintendent:
The oncologist diagnosis for Corliss is that she has Third Stage Diffuse Large B-Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. The doctor was very positive about the success of treatment and with our faith in God as The Healer we are believing for her complete recovery.

They allowed her to come home late last evening to rest a couple of days and gather her thoughts. We have been bombarded with a mountain of information the last five days.

She will be hospitalized again on Monday to begin chemo-therapy and be in the hospital for four or five days. After that, the treatments will be done on an outpatient basis and continue for at least the next six months.

Prayer is our only need. Doctors can help but God is the One who heals.

Bangladesh Report

"I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. 2 My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. 3 O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together."
(Psalm 34:1-3)

Praise the Lord! We have just received a telephone call from Bangladesh informing us that the police and RAB (Rapid Action Battalion/SWAT) have rescued the capitol city pastor's daughter from her kidnappers, and have arrested the two young men involved in the kidnapping.

We thank the Lord for His mighty hand of Action during this time of need, and would also like to thank each and every one of you for your prayers! We love and appreciate you all so very much! We thank the Lord for this tremendous recovery, for many times in Bangladesh young people are kidnapped, raped and then killed.

Thank you so much for your prayers!
The James Corbin family

Africa Report

Burundi
Reported by Area Coordinator, Jim Crumpacker

A two day seminar was taught to forty pastors and leaders from various church groups. After the seminar, seven pastors were baptized and seven others asked for our pastors to come teach their churches and baptize them with their people. Several more said they were convinced of the truth and were trying to decide what to do.

Gabon
Reported by Regional Missionary, Brother Desire

There are thirty-four part icipants in the Certificate Program of the (GATS) Global Association of Theological Studies program.

Ghana
Jim Poitras, Colleen Carter, & Nick Sisco families

Two received the Holy Ghost at a church Family, Friends & Fellowship Day.

Liberia
Albert Stewart family

Sixty-three were baptized in Jesus' name and forty-one received the Holy Ghost in regular services.

Madagascar
Chris Richardson family

Even amidst political turmoil, the church continues to rise.

Recently a small group of oneness churches requested to affiliate with the UPC. The National Superintendent has met with them and is in the process of integrating them into our fellowship.

Local churches continue to report revival and people being filled with the Holy Ghost.

Malawi
Tremayne Simoneaux family

During a recent crusade, eighty received the Holy Ghost and twenty-five were baptized in Jesus' name.

A husband and wife came to the crusade healing service. Both were healed, received the Holy Ghost, and were baptized.

One young girl received the Holy Ghost and spoke in perfect English.

South Africa
Karl Smith, Dan Davis, David Flowers, & Louis Louw families

Six received the Holy Ghost at a revival meeting in the capital city.

Tanzania
Richard Smoak & Jim Robertson families

Seven received the Holy Ghost in two different meetings.

Togo
Randy Adams family & reported by the Mike Benson family

A pastor was healed. A few weeks back, one of the pastors had something fly into his eye while driving his moped. The eye swelled shut and caused him great pain with sensitivity to light. On a recent Sunday, he was interpreting for one of the missionaries who was preaching about "Standing On Your Faith." The missionary drew a circle in the dirt and stood in it to reinforce his thought. The pastor repeated the action. Upon stepping into his circle, the pastor testified that the pain immediately left his eye and he was able to remove his sun glasses.

Uganda
Phil Tolstad family

A total of twenty-seven have been baptized and forty-two have received the Holy Ghost.

Three new churches have been started.

A woman was healed of HIV and her health restored.

Twelve pastors have asked to join our church after they received teaching on the apostolic message.

Seven pastors who await a seminar have committed to be baptized and accept the truth of the Word. They are very excited and plans have been made to go in April and baptize those congregations.

A pastor, who was recently baptized and brought his two churches into the truth, now faces opposition from witchdoctors. The witchdoctors have put pressure on the landlord to chase away the church because their magic and charms are not working. The devil cannot chase the church. Witchcraft doesn't work around the house of God. This pastor continues to stand strong for the message of Jesus.

At the funeral of a pastor's brother, there were sixteen pastors who heard the message of salvation. They are friends and relatives of the pastor, and many want to know more.

A Presbyter reports that after he received his motorcycle, he has been able to travel and meet several pastors who have wanted him to come and share the Word. Nine pastors and churches have affiliated with us since February.

Praise Report

From Ed Hosmer (Japan):

I want to share with you a praise report.

A couple of months ago, after a Friday night prayer meeting, we took many of our youth to McDonalds on our way home.

We met a young Air Force NCO there who was out drinking with a friend of his. Our youth being full of the Holy Ghost and bold invited them to eat with us. From there this NCO "Stephen" began to attend our cell group meetings. Then all of a sudden he vanished. No phone calls, no contact, etc.

A few weeks later he just shows up at our cell group meeting and related that he had been deployed for a short time. In fact he was not suppose to return back to Okinawa at all and was suppose to go directly to Iraq. For some reason he was able to return back to Okinawa for just 2 weeks.

Someone in our church began to talk to him that Wednesday night about the need to be baptized in Jesus' Name. The next Friday night he was baptized in Jesus' Name. Praise God! Tears were rolling down his face as he was so thankful to have his sins remitted. An hour later my wife and daughter taught him another Bible study about receiving the Holy Ghost. They could not even finish the Bible study. He said "I want to get the Holy Ghost now!" Within moments he was filled with the Holy Ghost! Two days later, he deployed to Iraq!

Urgent Prayer Request

Urgent Prayer Request from Foreign Missions Division:

Several of our missionary families are in politically unstable areas with civil unrest.

Please pray a prayer covering over all of the foreign missionaries. Pray for protection and provision for the missionary families and the national ministers and saints. Pray for wisdom in the midst of chaos. Pray that men's hearts will turn to the Lord during these times of adversity and that Jesus Christ will be glorified.

Thai Gram - March 2009

Rev. & Mrs. Frank Poling

Worship & Praise

Pastor James Varnum & Sister Thea

The Thai Conference this year had well over seven hundred in attendance.

Twenty-nine people were baptized in Jesus' name and one hundred and ninety-seven people stood on the platform after Sunday's Holy Ghost service to be counted as born again of the Spirit.

One Thai man (who only understands the Thai language) cried out "Glory, Glory, Glory" as he was filled with the Holy Ghost. There were also many, many people healed during the conference. A twenty-one person team from the USA came once again to minister at the conference. Great teaching, preaching, praying and worship!

Brother & Sister Frank Poling were honored for their dedication and commitment in coming to Thailand and ministering for thirty years! After serving more than thirty-five years as General Superintendent of Thailand, Brother Chaiyong Wattanachant has retired. Brother Ping Ploklaa is the newly elected superintendent.

"Thank you" so much for your continued prayers and support! If you would like to support our ministry in Thailand on a monthly basis you can go to our web site and enroll as a "Partner in Missions" or you can give a one-time offering.

Prayer Requests

From Joseph Collins (Portugal):
Please pray for the Portuguese national conference this weekend, March 14-15, and also for my wife who is not well.

We need to request prayer for Portugal and for my wife who is suffering in her body. We have our National Conference this weekend March 14 -15 and we want to see the Lord pour out His Spirit.

From Terry and Cindy McFarland (Ireland):
Please help us pray for the peace process here in Northern Ireland to remain moving forward.

Over the last three days we have had the murder of soldiers and police here. The Real IRA and the Continuity IRA have claimed responsibility for the deaths. We have been moving freely here in the land since the peace process started and now they are trying to derail the peace process here. All of the shootings have taken place within 5 miles of our home here. Thank you in advance.
From Randal Richardson (Mauritius/Reunion/Seychelles):
Please continue to pray for La Reunion and Madagascar.

Here in La Reunion March 10, 2009, is their next big day for manifestations and expected rioting and looting.

In this country the unemployment rate is over 25% and those living below the poverty level are more than 52%. Things are very serious. Everyone without exception is expecting major problems.

Already during the past three days: at least four businesses have been burnt out, six cars burnt and destroyed, and other damages.

One of our pastors reported that it really was bad in front of his home Saturday evening. They are saying that it is too late for anyone to fly out of the country as there will be no planes and no flights available on March 10.

All of the major shopping areas have been closed by protesters with the Gendarmes involved in those incidents. More than 9 arrests have taken place. Thank you for your prayers.

In Madagascar the opposition known as TGV is calling for major protest on March 10, 2009. This has become very serious because the military has now split in two. March 10th will be a very important development in all of this instability. The underlying factor of it all is the economy and poverty of the people. Madagascar will appreciate your prayers.

From DLB:
Please pray for Nona Freeman.

-Sister Nona Freeman suffered another ‘mini’ stroke Monday. Sandra called a neurologist and was able to get a same day appointment who feels she is having TIA’s [transient ischemic attack].

The symptoms are like a stroke but do not last long and occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or reduced, often by a blood clot.

After a short time, blood flows again and the symptoms go away. Her blood thinner is still being monitored which is currently 1.5 and needs to be between 2-3. She will have an MRI this week and that will tell her doctor more. Of course her faith is in the Almighty and all of us holding her up in prayer.

Prayer Requests

From Ed Hosmer (Japan):
Please pray a Japanese lady in Tokyo who is dying.

A Japanese lady contacted Brother Matsui in Tokyo to see if he could preach her funeral. She has not been able to eat for two months and is dying. Brother Matsui is a Japanese pastor in the Tokyo area. He is requesting for immediate prayer for healing and deliverance.

From Gary Sones (Spain):
Please pray for my father who suffered a fall resulting in five broken ribs and a partially collapsed lung.

My 76- year-old dad fell from 7 or 8 feet up while working on the garage door. He suffered 5 broken ribs and a partially collapsed lung and is in the hospital. He is in extreme pain and has reduced lung function. We would appreciate your prayers.

Praise Report

Praise Report
From Linda Reed (Middle East):

Ten years ago I had an ultrasound and the doctor asked me if I was an alcoholic! Of course, I told him, "no way!" He informed me I had a fatty liver at that time. He surmised it was from heredity and damage due to the parasitical infections and chemicals we endured as missionaries in Jordan. For ten years, it hasn't bothered me. But this year, it showed signs of progressive problems. A fatty liver leads to inflammation, cirrhosis and even liver cancer. So, after two questionable liver function tests, my doctor ordered an ultrasound. In my desperation to be well, I asked God to give me a new liver, so I could live and work for Him at least another 15 years, like Hezekiah!

Well, this morning [Monday], after an extensive ultrasound, I was told there is no sign of a 'fatty liver'. My liver test was totally normal. The liver is no longer enlarged and filled with fat deposits. God has given me a 'new liver'. This is not possible with men, but God knows we don't have time to go through another lengthy disease cycle. The Middle East needs us healthy now! So, God gave me a new liver without transplant surgery. I am floating on cloud nine! God is so faithful. I thank Him and every one who prayed.

Prayer Requests

Prayer Requests
From Sharon Ritchie (Windward Islands/French Guiana):
Please pray for the French Windward Islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe.

Guadeloupe has been striking for over a month, and Martinique joined in about two weeks ago. Stores, schools, gas stations, banks, and post offices are closed; buses are not running ... People are hungry; it is not safe to have church in the evenings. The strikers have been throwing stones at the riot police; the police are using tear gas... The situation is explosive, to say the least. It is escalating into a racial riot. We ask prayer for the safety of our church members, and that peace and order will return to these islands.

From Barbara Abernathy (FMD):
Please continue praying for Bryan Abernathy.

Thanks for your prayers! While the doctor did tell Bro. Abernathy that his cellulitis is now in remission, he was just diagnosed today with shingles. We realize this is just another wave in our physical storm and are glad to know who walks on the water! We appreciate all the kind words and thoughts-it has made the rowing easier!

Africa Report

Africa Revival Report

February 2009

Cameroon
Terry Riddick family

In the French zone of the country, ten were baptized in Jesus' name and six more were to be baptized the following week. This took place after teaching was made on how the name of Jesus has all power and everything in word or deed is to be done in that name. One of the ladies who was baptized gave testimony of being pregnant for five months and not feeling the baby move. When she came out of the water she felt her child move and has continued to move ever since. There were sixty in attendance and two baptized in Jesus' name at the newest work in the French zone.
Ghana
Jim Poitras, Colleen Carter, & Nick Sisco families

In the north, sixteen received the Holy Ghost and nine were baptized in Jesus' name. Faculty Education had twenty-nine in attendance.
Kenya
Jim Crumpacker & Patrick Groves families

At a recent crusade, seventy-nine received the Holy Ghost and seven were baptized in Jesus' name. Thirty-five received the Holy Ghost during National Youth Convention.
Liberia
Albert Stewart family

Forty-three were baptized in Jesus' name and forty-four were filled with the Holy Ghost.
Malawi
Tremayne Simoneaux family

Seven new ministers received license at a recent ministers seminar.
Nigeria
Gerry McLean family

The Bible school has a record enrollment of forty-eight students. There are twenty-three in first year. One fellowship has asked for their ministers to be trained. They sent five students.
South Africa
Karl Smith, Dan Davis, David Flowers, & Louis Louw families

In one major city, thirteen were baptized in Jesus' name.
Tanzania
Richard Smoak & Jim Robertson families

In three days, seventeen were filled with the Holy Spirit.

While traveling to a seminar, the missionary and his daughter experienced the protecting hand of God as they escaped an accident by mere inches.

The missionary was attempting to park his truck at the church as a taxi was in the oncoming lane. He quickly moved to the shoulder and parked. After walking to the back of the truck to retrieve his briefcase, he saw a large drain hole about three feet deep. The left side of the truck was almost completely off the road and in that hole. The neighborhood was completely in shock at the fact that he had driven over the hole and did not fall in.
Uganda
Phil Tolstad family

At General Conference, thirty-one received the Holy Ghost and thirty-eight were baptized in Jesus' name. Six of those baptized were pastors of churches who have joined the UPCI. One of these pastors has started a new church.

Since the Conference, three pastors from very different areas of the country=2 0have been baptized.

Many miracles have occurred in the last three to four weeks.
1) One six year old girl was raised from death as they were preparing her funeral.
2) A pastor's wife, of a church in the capital city, was raised from her death bed due to AIDS and God healed her. She attends the UPC church. Jesus hears the prayers of these people.
3) Pastors with differences of opinion have made amends.

A combined report from five regions:
1) Sixty-eight received the Holy Ghost and sixty-two were baptized in Jesus' name.
2) Two trinitarian pastors were baptized in Jesus' name and received the Holy Ghost.
3) Two more pastors were baptized and now work with the UPCI.
4) Five new churches were started.
5) Seven pastors gathered with the Assistant Superintendent to be taught the Oneness Doctrine. Zimbabwe
Tremayne Simoneaux family

Over 200 attended 'Big Sunday' services and nine received the Holy Ghost. A total of sixty-eight received the Holy Ghost at two revival meetings.

Getting to Know Our Missionaries

Jim & Karen Crumpacker Jim and Karen Crumpacker gained their first foreign missionary experience as Associates In Missions to Kenya in 1982. They received full missionary appointment in October 1984. As the field superintendent of the UPC of Malawi, Brother Crumpacker oversaw the church structure, pastors, training ministers, and supervising the building of country churches.

In his additional role as a missionary to Mozambique, Brother Crumpacker made periodic trips to help the developing church in a nation still recovering from years of civil war. In 2003, the Crumpackers returned to Kenya leaving behind their beloved Malawi. In Kenya, Bro. Crumpacker holds the position of Missionary Director, serves on the National Board, and assists the Kenyan church in training and evangelism. Bro. Crumpacker also serves as Area Coordinator over the thirteen countries of East Africa.

Five of these nations have resident missionaries and eight do not. The Crumpackers have one son, Jason and daughter-in-law, Jill, who served as AIMers in Greece for some time. As an adult, Jason has returned to Africa twice, for ten month increments on AIM assignments, helping with building projects and to teach in the Bible School.

Jason and Jill now live in Indiana, USA and are proud parents of a precious boy named Orrin. Of course, Pop and Nana Crumpacker are proud of him too.

Prayer Requests

Prayer Requests

From Bev Lawrence (FMD):
Please continue praying for Robert Norris.

Thursday afternoon: I called ABI and got an update on Robert Norris. They took his feeding tube out and he is out of ICU. He is still in the St. Joseph's Hospital, but he is on the upside, looking better, and feeling better, plus he is eating again. They did find a lesion on his liver, but Brother Norris is doing better.

Friday morning: Brother Robert Norris has taken a turn for the worse. Please have everyone pray for him.

From Albert Stewart (Liberia):
Please continue praying for Liberia as the caterpillars are still causing a lot of damage.

Thanks to all of you that have been praying for the caterpillar invasion in Liberia. It turned out that they were not Army Worms. We understand that Army Worms are much more destructive. However, these caterpillars are still causing a lot of damage. Here is an excerpt from National Geographic News, dated Feb 5, 09: "Moving through the forest canopy on webs , devouring the leaves as they went, the caterpillars advanced like nothing the townspeople had ever seen. They ate food and cash crops -- coffee, cocoa, citrus, plantain, banana, and cassava. They took over homes and people fled. Venturing into the forest meant being hit by a wave of caterpillars that appeared to be moving forward about as fast as the average person walks." The President has declared a national emergency.

For a news update on Liberia: Click Here - I believe God is answering our prayers! Also pray for Guinea and Sierra Leone.

Prayer Needs for Missionaries:

Missionary Prayer Focus for Monday, February 9, 2009:
Rodger and Margaret White (Indonesia/Malaysia)

Missionary Prayer Focus for Tuesday, February 10, 2009:
Steve and Lloy Bennett (Israel/Palestine)

Missionary Prayer Focus for Wednesday, February 11, 2009:
Lonnie and Gail Burton (Venezuela)

Missionary Prayer Focus for Thursday, February 12, 2009:
Allen and Jean Gordon (Solomon Islands)

Missionary Prayer Focus for Friday, February 13, 2009:
Jonathan and Maria Strickland (Greece)

Missionary Prayer Focus for Saturday, February 14, 2009:
Rufus and Pam Parker (Asia Military Ministries/Japan)

Missionary Prayer Focus for Sunday, February 15, 2009:
Phillip and Sandra Rhodes (Suriname)

Missionary Prayer Focus for Monday, February 16, 2009:
John and Anne Nowacki (France)

Missionary Prayer Focus for Tuesday, February 17, 2009:
Kirby and Mary Parker (Malta./North Africa)

Missionary Prayer Focus for Wednesday, February 18, 2009:
Phil and Twyla Tolstad (Uganda)

Missionary Prayer Focus for Thursday, February 19, 2009:
Henry and Sharon Ritchie (Windward Islands/French Guiana)

Missionary Prayer Focus for Friday, February 20, 2009:
William and Elizabeth Turner (Russia/Ukraine/Kazakhstan)

Missionary Prayer Focus for Saturday, February 21, 2009:
John and Aurelia Hopkins (RD, Central America/Caribbean)

Missionary Prayer Focus for Sunday, February 22, 2009:
Louis and Rosemary Louw (Namibia/Botswana)

Prayer Requests and Praise Reports

Prayer Request
From Randall Richardson (Mauritius, La Reunion, and Seychelles):

One of our preachers' wives has undergone medical test for possible cancer. The results will be known on Friday. Please pray for her and her healing.

Praise Report

1.28.09 UPDATE SIS NONA FREEMAN

PRAISE THE NAME OF JESUS!!!! SISTER NONA FREEMAN IS HOME!!!!

Exactly three weeks to the day she suffered a stroke our precious Sister Freeman is home! She has had one miracle after another!

Please continue to pray for her that she will gain her strength and be able to resume her schedule. She depends on her bookings for her income and anything you feel no matter how small will be a blessing to her. It will be some time yet before she is able to resume preaching.

Kneemail will still continue to send out updates and have another video up on You Tube in the next few days.

Any questions or comments can still be emailed to her at nona.freeman@yahoo.com.

Also Gloria Patton pattongp@yahoo.com is maintaining Nona Freeman Fans on Everyones Apostolic and posting updates.

We still have .42 Nona Freeman stamps for an offering to Sister Freeman of $5.00. This is an actual US Postage stamp with her picture on it.

PRAISE THE NAME OF JESUS..... she is home. Please continue to cover her in prayer and pray for Sandra that she can have strength to take care of Sister Freeman and keep her ministry going. She is the unseen support for Sister Freeman.

Prayer Request from Liberia

From Albert Stewart (Liberia):

Please pray for Liberia as it is being invaded by hordes of caterpillars.

Liberia is being invaded by hordes of army worms (caterpillars). The caterpillars have attacked over 45 villages/towns causing mass destruction. They are destroying all vegetations and grass top roofs. Liberia is already suffering from a food shortage and they have destroyed many farms. Thousands are displaced from these villages because when the caterpillars come, you cannot stay. It's a real plague. Liberia does not have the equipment to fight these creatures. Unless God help us they could cover the entire country in a short time.

Click HERE to read more about this report from CNN.

Africa Report

Benin ~
Randy Adams family

*During a regional conference seventeen were filled with the Holy Ghost.

Central African Republic ~
Mike Benson family
reported by Area Coordinator, Randy Adams

*Eighteen people were baptized in Jesus' name in a major city.

Gabon ~
Randy Adams & Joel Richardson families

*During December, three people were baptized in Jesus' name.

Ghana ~
Jim Poitras, Colleen Carter, & Nick Sisco families

*During revival services/seminars, eighty-six received the Holy Ghost and ten were baptized in Jesus' name. There were also at least ten people interested in attending the Bible school.

Lesotho ~
David Kline family

*The Sunday school received a package from the Louisiana District Sunday School Department. The package included a portable puppet stage, two puppets, and resource materials for children's ministry. Dozens of children and youth20repented the first time the puppets were used. A drama team will trained to become puppet masters for Jesus.

The Sunday school teacher training and Bible studies are also going well. Eight new teachers are trained and will begin teaching soon.

In 2008 more than 1,650 Bible studies were taught, and there were more than 880 visitors.

Liberia ~
Albert Stewart family

*During several services, forty-nine were baptized in Jesus' name and fifty-two received the Holy Ghost.

At the annual national crusade, 2003 were filled with the Holy Ghost.

Madagascar ~
Chris Richardson family

*Leadership Conference was held with national leaders all coming together for budget/planning sessions.

Tanzania ~
Richard Smoak & Jim Robertson families

*In New Years services around the country more than 100 people were filled with the Holy Ghost. Many were also baptized in Jesus' name including a Trinitarian pastor.

There was a three year old boy who could not walk. After prayer he began walking.

In a special meeting, several were healed: one person was healed of tuberculosis, several were healed of severe headaches, and two were healed of bleeding ulcers.

In another region, sixteen repented and seven were baptized in Jesus' name.

In one of the local churches the pastor testified about God's provision. Earlier he didn't have seed to plant his farm. After prayer was made, having faith in God to answer, he left and started home. Before he left the Bible school grounds someone had given him bus fare to get home and before he reached home someone had given him seeds to plant his farm.

Togo ~
Randy Adams family

*During the national conference, there were fifty new people filled with the Holy Ghost. A miracle offering of $3,300 was received for the continuation of the Bibl e school building. A preaching point was opened following the conference.

In a new church seven were baptized in Jesus' name, and four received the Holy Ghost.

In another new church, two received the Holy Ghost.

During a Sunday morning service in one church, eight received the Holy Ghost and ten came forward to be baptized.

Zambia ~
Gary Abernathy family

*A full report of the Regional Prayer Conferences of 2008 showed totals of 4,453 in attendance with 101 receiving the Holy Ghost and 105 being baptized in Jesus' name.

Prayer Requests

From Winona Cole (VFMA: Peru):
Please pray for my husband Ronald Cole.

A short time ago my husband, Bro Ronald Cole from Chipman, N.B. had a routine checkup on his aorta. Everything was fine but during the test they discovered a lump on his thyroid.

Tomorrow, January 22 at 1:30 at the St. John Hospital he will have surgery to have the thyroid removed. Please keep him in your prayers.

From Dan Davis (South Africa):
Please pray for the Mkwane Family and for an end to the violence.

This family attended Turning Point until moving to another city for work. They had been in Johannesburg for holiday and were leaving today. As they left 8 men hijacked the car shooting Mrs. Mkwane through the heart, she was four months pregnant and the baby died as well. They also shot the 11 year old son but he lived and kidnapped the daughter who has not yet been found. We are having terrible violence between the Xhosa and the Zulu in certain areas near our home. Last night a policeman was shot in the violence.

From Robert Kelley (United Kingdom/Ireland/Channel Islands):
Please continue to pray for the accreditation of Harvest Bible College and the visa situation for the AIMers who want to come.

Many thanks to all who prayed for the accreditation inspection of Harvest Bible College. This was a very intense time and the enemy has fought very hard to frustrate and discourage us. The inspectors made many favorable comments about the college and also gave us areas of weakness. The final decision will be made on February 5, so we ask for your continued prayers. We are working on some of the recommendations that were made to us so that the accreditation agency can see them before the 5th of February. Please pray that God will give us wisdom and insight into all we need to do as well as the physical and mental strength we need.

Also, please pray for the UPC of Great Britain & Ireland as we work on immigration and visa matters for missionaries and AIMers desiring to enter the U.K. The paper work has been done and now we are believing God for a quick and favorable outcome. Pray especially for John and Susan Beek who need to get here quickly.

Prayer Requests

Prayer Requests

From Richard McGriffin (Hawaii District Superintendent/VFMA: Austria/Germany):
Please pray for the healing of my Achilles tendon.

I have a very special prayer need that if convenient, you might post to the missionary family. About a month ago I tore my right Achilles tendon and will be in a cast for 4 months. This has been a very difficult adjustment for me and has produced challenges I did not anticipate. Suffice it to say, I would appreciate the prayer covering provide by this remarkable group of laborers.
From Steve Bennett (Middle East): Please pray for my father.
My father had a heart attack Sunday night. He patiently waited, sitting in a chair for six hours, because he didn't want to wake my Mom....By the time they got to the hospital and got things sorted out...they found renewed damage to an aneurysm that was worked on a few years ago...that left him greatly weakened.

My Mom has been told that she should consider putting him in a rest home environment because he will need constant care, at least for a while...hopefully until recovered sufficiently to operate okay at home. Pray with me that he regains his strength and mental functioning sufficiently to live at home.

Update on Sister Freeman:

Today has been a little more challenging for Ouma. I went to see her last night to tuck her in around 8:15 and she was already sleeping soundly. I stopped by the nurses station for about 15 minutes to ask how Ouma had been - while standing there, Ouma called the nurse for assistance so I was able to go in and see her.

Yesterday Ouma was taken off of all anitbiotics. Last night she began wheezing and coughing while I was there. The nurse originally said it sounded just to be congestion in her throat because she had no rattle and was moving air very well. I left around 12:15 a.m. this morning.

I spoke with Sandra this morning to find out that doctors have restarted antibiotics for Ouma and are giving her Lasix to remove fluid.

She had improved and continues to do so. But while I was there last night, she was having a lot of trouble resting and her breathing was labored. She does not rest well when people are in the room so I told her I was going to leave - she asked me to stay because she did not want to be alone.

I'm glad to have stayed - we did not talk much - I just wanted her to rest. But she would wake every 10 to 15 minutes to cough or get a sip of water. So much of the night was a chore for Ouma. She was exhausted from the physical therapy she had yesterday - simple things like getting her water or kleenex was almost too much for her.

In the past hour, Sandra says Ouma seems to be doing better than yesterday and just looks tired. It does not look like Ouma will go to the Rehab hospital today. The little that Ouma and I did talk last night was encouraging. She continues to be thankful to Jesus for where she is and what she is going through. She speaks in tongues often. As she was laying in the hospital bed last night, she looked at me and said "I have been led by the Holy Ghost many years - and I am STILL led by the Holy Ghost. I am led by the Holy Ghost sitting in this bed. I am here in Jesus' Name".

There's really not anything you can add to that.....
Jay

Prayer Requests

Prayer Requests

From General Director Bruce Howell:
Please pray for Sister Freeman. She has had a stroke and is in ICU. She also has pneumonia and is in desperate need of healing.

From Rufus Parker (Asia Military Ministries/Japan):
Please pray for my wife Pam as she continues to battle with her voice loss problem and sickness.

From Eddy and Della Mae Kennedy (New Caledonia):
Please pray for my family in Canada. I received news from my family in Canada that my youngest brother just passed away.

From Tom Suey (International Coordinator, World Network of Prayer):
Please pray for the churches in Nigeria. Persecution has stepped into Africa when hundreds of people in a mob murdered the District Superintendent of the Assemblies of God in Nigeria last weekend. Keep them in prayer.

From Stanley Scism (South Asia/United Kingdom):
Please continue to pray for Dora and Pecos Kutesa's liver transplant surgery, now postponed to January 13.

Here's an update on the liver transplant surgery--date change to January 13. Six SCI students are donating blood on Monday, January 12. Please pray for Dora and Pecos in their surgery, and for the students in their blood donation.

2008: Europe in Great Revival

Charles and Stacey Robinette

I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an OPEN DOOR,
and no man can shut it: For thou hast a little strength, and hast kept
my word, and hast not denied my name.
Revelations 3:8

2008 will be remembered as a year of victory for the Lord Jesus Christ in Europe. The reports are pouring in from all nations declaring the wonderful works of our Lord. Here are just a few exciting moments we experienced traveling and working in Austria:

• Over 135 received the Holy Ghost in the country of Austria!
  

• A new church has been started in the city of Zwettl.
  

• The city of Krems is now open with a weekly house group Bible study.

• In Holy Ghost Rally’s in Spain, England & Norway 322 people were filled with the Holy Ghost and over 100 were baptized in Jesus name!
  

• On our A-Team Crusade to Malawi over 300 people received the gift of the Holy Ghost for the first time!
  

• While traveling for a few weeks before Thanksgiving in the USA; 130 people received the Holy Ghost and 22 were baptized.

Our Goals for 2009

RAISE 10,000 EURO IN OUR POSSES THE LAND OFFERING FOR CHURCH PLANTING.

100,000 MORE FLYERS DISTRIBUTED IN THE COUNTRY.

200 RECEIVE THE HOLY GHOST.

100 BAPTIZED IN JESUS NAME.

BREAK 200 IN SUNDAY ATTENDANCE IN VIENNA.

START TWO MORE CHURCHES IN TWO NEW DISTRICTS OF VIENNA.

LICENSE TWO NEW PREACHERS.

INITIATE NEW MEMBERSHIP CLASSES.

OPEN AUSTRIA MINISTRY TRAINING CENTER!

START TRAINING PEOPLE FOR MINISTRY!