(Dont forget to look at previous entries that arrive inbetween reminder emails)
We are seeing the High School opened up in a way that hasnt happened in remembered history!
We received an open invitation to adopt an entire year group and be their chaplain. They are open to the Pastor 'loitering with intent' to chat with kids about God. They asked if we would come alongside teachers and help them address their disciplines when our expertise contributes.
The Christian Club at Alva Academy is growing and being populated with seekers and interested non-Christians. So cool!
We are seeing growth in the church and maturity in the existing family who gather.
We spent a recent deacons' mtg discussing the need for the church to repent of her poor witness in the community over decades; and celebrated a Harvest Thanksgiving service with a theme of repentance. All on the heals of a prayer service where this pastor apologized to the community if we were at any point the awnry sister down the road. God is so faithful when we come to Him humbly and glorifying Him. He is just and He is worthy.
The church is open on Sunday Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
Not just traditional church, but relationships seeded with the gospel message.
Playing ping pong Friday night a young man shared the following:
"You know, since I've been coming to church (Friday night, not yet Sundays), I can see God's hand on my life. Iv'e been reunited with my sister and brother, I can see that God has given me (his mom's boyfriend) as a guy in my life to help me, and I am learning more about God. Iv'e been thinking that I would like to be baptized" (pastor lifts jaw off the table)
Simon came to the house the next week and his mom's boyfriend was concerned that the lad not take action in ignorance or rashly. Simon's mom came by the next week to see what we are about and approves of her son's decision.
We will be starting a discipleship course begining with Salvation and Baptism on a Wednesday night soon (next week).
There is life here! We see fruit. Love works!!!
This is a church that is returning to her First Love.
And you stand with us!
THANK YOU JESUS!
1 comment:
Praise God for His work in Simon!
In Him,
Matt Semenza
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