The date has been set to leave Port Angeles. We plan to depart on May 7th. Originally we intended to leave a week earlier but our Grandson, Asher, has his first baseball game on May 5th. Asher has never played in any organized sports until a couple of weeks ago. I have been working with him on baseball skills such as catching, throwing, hitting, and fielding. So we have to stay at least for his first game.
We will take a couple of days to get to Fir Point Bible Camp. We really want visit Mt. St.Helens which is in southern Washington.
This evening I got to speak at a home Bible study from the Independent Bible Church of Port Angeles. (Dayle came down with the flu today so she didn't get to go.) They were very interested in my Jewish background, Coast Guard and police adventures and ministry. They were asking so many questions that I didn't have any time to get into the lesson that I had prepared. But they did ask us to return next Thursday evening.
The weather is beginning to break here in the rain forest. There have actually been a few days of sunshine. Last week we had three days in a row without any rain. What joy it is to see blue sky and sun shine. Of course, I capitalize on the opportunity and head to the mountain bike trails. There is a 25 mile trail called the Discovery Adventure Trail that is quite a challenge. I have ridden this trail several times now. I leave from our son's house and ride 4 miles to the trail head. So the entire ride is just under 30 miles and it takes me right around 5 hours each time. After every ride I loose a couple of pounds. I have dropped 10 pounds in the last month by riding and eating less. I will keep up my riding at Fir Point as there are plenty of trails to ride in the mountains around the camp.
Once we get to Fir Point I am going to try to find a church where we can serve at while we are there. Our heart's desire is to serve in a local church in whatever capacity the Lord allows. While we are at Fir Point we will still be available for the mission to send us wherever we are needed.
Please continue to pray for ministry opportunities. Also pray for my Dayle that she will kick this flu quickly.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Friday, April 13, 2012
Still Waiting
We are still in Port Angeles enjoying the virtually incessant rain and cloudiness. Although I do get to go for a bike ride now and then. I just acquired full rain gear for the bike so I'm not going to let a little rains stop me anymore.
We are a bit surprised that we haven't been assigned a new church yet. So about the first of May we will be heading to Fir Point Bible Camp. There is much work that needs to be done to get ready for the summer camp season. I will be able to use my technical skills in repairing the RVs that are used for summer staff. Plus there is wood to cut, buildings to repair, and the list goes on.
We will be just 25 miles from Annie and family so we will be able to spend some time with them. No surgery has yet been scheduled for AJ. The doctor wants to take a wait and see posture for the time being. They may have to go to the Children's Hospital in Portland but nothing more is known yet.
Please continue to pray for AJ and for the entire Galli family -- Mel, Annie, AJ, and Andy.
We are a bit surprised that we haven't been assigned a new church yet. So about the first of May we will be heading to Fir Point Bible Camp. There is much work that needs to be done to get ready for the summer camp season. I will be able to use my technical skills in repairing the RVs that are used for summer staff. Plus there is wood to cut, buildings to repair, and the list goes on.
We will be just 25 miles from Annie and family so we will be able to spend some time with them. No surgery has yet been scheduled for AJ. The doctor wants to take a wait and see posture for the time being. They may have to go to the Children's Hospital in Portland but nothing more is known yet.
Please continue to pray for AJ and for the entire Galli family -- Mel, Annie, AJ, and Andy.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
From Los Angeles to Issaquah to Lynwood, Washington
These past three weeks have been blessing after blessing. It started with the Shepherd's Conference in L.A. where I heard great preachers and teachers speaking about the sufficiency and power of God's Word. The fellowship with many long time friends and meeting new friends was wonderful as were all the speakers. I attended every session that I could and then I downloaded every session from www.shepherdsfellowship.org I highly engourage everyone to download these great messages! They are all free!
The following weekend, March 17 we drove from Port Angeles, WA to Issaquah, WA where I would be preaching on the 18th at Trinity Evangelical Church. While enroute another motorist pulled up along side of us and was frantically waiving and pointing to our trailer. We had blown a tire and didn't even know it. We pulled over and the tire was shredded. After a quick tire change we continued on our way to Issaquah.
On Sunday I spoke on the Doctrine of Indestructible Joy. It almost never seems to fail that God always provides a living illustration for me to use in my sermons just as He did with the blown out tire. After the message the people took up a collection which almost totally paid for a new tire. What a blessing to be ministered to by such warm and loving people!
On Sunday we drove to Sunset Bible Church in Tacoma where we would park our house while attending the Pacific Northwest Regional Conference to be held at Corban Seminary. The fellowship was great as we were able to meet new friends and reconnect with old. The theme of the conference was "Biblical Church Growth." I am always suspicious when I hear this topic and it turns out I had good reason to be suspicious. The speaker's first two sessions were excellent but his last two sessions were quite dissappointing. It is amazing to me how I can go from one conference and hear some wonderful teaching right out of the Word of God and then go to another conference one week later and hear the exact opposite. I hope to soon be speaking with the officers of the PNW Regional concerning their last speaker and will be encouraging them to listen to a couple of the Shepherd's Conference sessions that addressed the same topic.
After the PNW Regional we returned to Jason and Shelli's home in Port Angeles to be with Autum on her 12th birthday. Then on Saturday we headed to Lynwood where I would be speaking at Alderwood Community Church in three of their fellowship groups. The topic that they wanted to me to speak on was "How did a nice Jewish boy like you become a Christian Preacher?" We had a lot of fun with this topic and always took the people to the Scriptures concerning the sovereignty of God. As I write this entry we are in Snohomish at Associate Pastor Tim Walton's home and getting ready to speak at one more group before departing back to Port Angeles.
Concerning future ministry....We were told that we may be sent to Idaho to help out a church so hopefully we will hear more soon. If nothing comes up we will be heading to Fir Point Bible Camp to work until needed elsewhere. So please continue to pray for us, and for ministry opportunities. Also pray for our grandson, AJ, Annie's oldest, for possible brain tumors. We will know the results of the CT Scan soon.
The following weekend, March 17 we drove from Port Angeles, WA to Issaquah, WA where I would be preaching on the 18th at Trinity Evangelical Church. While enroute another motorist pulled up along side of us and was frantically waiving and pointing to our trailer. We had blown a tire and didn't even know it. We pulled over and the tire was shredded. After a quick tire change we continued on our way to Issaquah.
 |
| Trinity Evangelical Church, Issaquah, Washington |
 |
| Inside the Chapel of Corban Seminary |
 |
| Outside Alderwood Community Church with Merilee, Kristy, and Jackson Walton |
 |
 |
| Speaking in the Silver and Gold Fellowship on Tuesday. Approx 80 seniors. |
Concerning future ministry....We were told that we may be sent to Idaho to help out a church so hopefully we will hear more soon. If nothing comes up we will be heading to Fir Point Bible Camp to work until needed elsewhere. So please continue to pray for us, and for ministry opportunities. Also pray for our grandson, AJ, Annie's oldest, for possible brain tumors. We will know the results of the CT Scan soon.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Going to the Shepherd's Conference
As I write this entry I am in Klamath Falls, with my good friends Duane and Cora Tucker. A couple of weeks ago Duane called me and asked me to go to the Shepherd's Conference with him. I was hesitant for two reasons--having to be away from Dayle and the grand kids for a week; and secondly, I really didn't want to drive for 24 hours down to LA. Well, Duane and Cora were going to be up in Bremerton which is just 1 1/2 hour drive from Port Angeles. He convinced me to go. I met them in Bremerton this morning, parked the car at the Amtrak station in Tacoma, and hopped in the van. Duane, being a professional driver, plans to do most of the driving, and I can just sit and relax.
Tonight we are in Klamath Falls. Tomorrow I have a few errands to run, and very early Tuesday morning we will head to Los Angeles. I am looking forward to a great conference, spiritual refreshment, and sweet fellowship. On early Sunday morning, I board the Amtrak train and return to Tacoma.
Dayle is staying in Port Angeles...the grand kids were willing to let one of us go, but not both. Our daughter-in-law said that "mom" cannot go.
Tonight we are in Klamath Falls. Tomorrow I have a few errands to run, and very early Tuesday morning we will head to Los Angeles. I am looking forward to a great conference, spiritual refreshment, and sweet fellowship. On early Sunday morning, I board the Amtrak train and return to Tacoma.
Dayle is staying in Port Angeles...the grand kids were willing to let one of us go, but not both. Our daughter-in-law said that "mom" cannot go.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Arrived in Port Angeles, Washington
We arrived in Port Angeles on Wednesday (2/15) to all the grand kids waiting for us at the road. They sure make us feel special! The last two days have been pretty much constant rain. When we went to bed we discovered that the bedroom carpet was soaked. Water had leaked in. This was very puzzling because we have been in monsoon rains in Arizona with no leakage. Then I noticed that the trailer had settled and was now leaning the wrong way. So at 10:00 at night I am out in the cold and the rain, putting a tarp over the front part of the trailer and then I leveled the trailer. So, no more leaks. Due to the high humidity here, I had to go purchase a dehumidifier otherwise the floor would never dry. Fun, fun, fun! But now we have a real nice dehumidifier.
We are really enjoying spending time with the kids. They have all grown so much. Asher is bigger that Dayle, and Autum is almost as tall as Dayle.
Tomorrow we will accompany them to their church, Peninsula Bible Church. The following weeks we will visit the three IFCA churches in the area.
March will be a busy month. I will be going to the Shepherd's Conference. My friend Duane Tucker will pick me up in Tacoma and I will drive down with him. On the return trip, he will drop me off at the Amtrak train in Klamath Falls and then Dayle will pick me up in Tacoma. (Tacoma is about a two hour drive.) I also still have two speaking opportunities and the NICE Regional conference. We will be taking our trailer to the regional. But its cheaper than a hotel and we that way we don't have to worry about the dogs.
I have lots of picture I would like to post, but we have a very slow internet connection here at our son's house, so I will have to wait for a better time.
We are still waiting for an assignment.
We are really enjoying spending time with the kids. They have all grown so much. Asher is bigger that Dayle, and Autum is almost as tall as Dayle.
Tomorrow we will accompany them to their church, Peninsula Bible Church. The following weeks we will visit the three IFCA churches in the area.
March will be a busy month. I will be going to the Shepherd's Conference. My friend Duane Tucker will pick me up in Tacoma and I will drive down with him. On the return trip, he will drop me off at the Amtrak train in Klamath Falls and then Dayle will pick me up in Tacoma. (Tacoma is about a two hour drive.) I also still have two speaking opportunities and the NICE Regional conference. We will be taking our trailer to the regional. But its cheaper than a hotel and we that way we don't have to worry about the dogs.
I have lots of picture I would like to post, but we have a very slow internet connection here at our son's house, so I will have to wait for a better time.
We are still waiting for an assignment.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Rancho Cordova, CA to Klamath Falls, OR to Grants Pass, OR
Wow! so much has happened since our last post. We spent two weeks with Stephen and Neeley in Rancho Cordova. We had such a good time with them. We stayed in their guest room. Both Stephen and Neeley are very health conscious and they made sure that I ate healthy. No junk food for me. I did go bike riding almost every day along the American River Trail. The first week I rode over 100 miles. I even rode to downtown Sacramento on a 30 mile round trip ride.
We went to Grace Bible Church with them and we always enjoy sitting under the teaching of Dr. Rick Gregory. If I ever had to live in California, it would have to be close enough to be a part of this church. We also attended a home Bible study with them. It was truly a blessing to know that our kids are in such a good church with such great teaching.
Both Stephen and Neeley work at UC Davis Medical Center and they love their jobs. Stephen works the day shift and Neeley works the night shift so they often pass each other in the hallway. They do get plenty of off time though. On one of their day's off we went to San Francisco for the day. Among other things, we drove down Lombard Street four times and visited Golden Gate Park.
We arrived in Klamath Falls on Friday February 3rd and parked our trailer at the farm of Dan and Kathy Wetzel (Stephen's parents). What a gracious and fun couple. Our mission in Klamath Falls was to go through our storage unit and dig out our winter clothing and to separate out everything that we want to sell in the spring. We decided to sell most everything in storage which we will do in the spring. We also had the privilege of seeing many friends at an open house held in our honor. We were able to get everything accomplished that we needed to do. I even got to see my favorite dentist, Tim Moore, and get my teeth checked and cleaned.
Right now we are staying at Fir Point Bible Camp in Glendale, Oregon which is just 25 miles north of Grants Pass where our daughter Annie and family live. We haven't seen them since thanksgiving. When we first saw them Annie started crying. She said, "I didn't realize how much I missed you guys!" Well, we missed something terribly too (I didn't cry though). The boys have sure grown. We will be staying through Monday so we can see the boys in their respective classes. Andy is in dance and AJ is in karate.
We asked the mission to not reassign us until the end of February so we still don't know where we will be going next. But I do have two speaking opportunities in March, both in Washington as one (possibly two) conferences to attend.
For more pictures you can check out our facebook page.
Please continue to pray for safety on the road, God's provision, and for the Lord's work to be done.
We went to Grace Bible Church with them and we always enjoy sitting under the teaching of Dr. Rick Gregory. If I ever had to live in California, it would have to be close enough to be a part of this church. We also attended a home Bible study with them. It was truly a blessing to know that our kids are in such a good church with such great teaching.
Both Stephen and Neeley work at UC Davis Medical Center and they love their jobs. Stephen works the day shift and Neeley works the night shift so they often pass each other in the hallway. They do get plenty of off time though. On one of their day's off we went to San Francisco for the day. Among other things, we drove down Lombard Street four times and visited Golden Gate Park.
 |
| Stephen and Neeley up a tree in Golden Gate Park |
 |
| My two docs. Well, they are not doctors, but they look like doctors. Stephen is a nuclear medicine tech and Neeley is an ultrasound tech. |
Right now we are staying at Fir Point Bible Camp in Glendale, Oregon which is just 25 miles north of Grants Pass where our daughter Annie and family live. We haven't seen them since thanksgiving. When we first saw them Annie started crying. She said, "I didn't realize how much I missed you guys!" Well, we missed something terribly too (I didn't cry though). The boys have sure grown. We will be staying through Monday so we can see the boys in their respective classes. Andy is in dance and AJ is in karate.
 |
| This is where we will spend our summers if we do not have a church assignment from NICE. |
We asked the mission to not reassign us until the end of February so we still don't know where we will be going next. But I do have two speaking opportunities in March, both in Washington as one (possibly two) conferences to attend.
For more pictures you can check out our facebook page.
Please continue to pray for safety on the road, God's provision, and for the Lord's work to be done.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
On the Road Again
Since our departure from Lake Havasu City, we have been visiting family and friends. Our first stop was my mother and sister's family in Pinon Hills, CA. It was good being able to spend time with mom and to help out around the house. Of course, I just can't sit still. My sister asked me to install some shades in the living room. While this may sound like a simple task it was anything but simple. Her windows are not really designed to accept pull-down shades. Drapes are what is normally used for these type of windows. So after giving it some thought, I installed a shelf between the top half-round window and the lower rectangular window, then attached the shade to the underside of the shelf. It looks pretty good. I also did the same to mom's room and we used room darkening shades...now she can sleep past sunrise.
On Sunday we went to Grace Community Church and saw many friends that we have not seen in a few years. After the service I saw a young mother with her two small children walk past. She looked very familiar but I couldn't quite place her. then she walked past a second time and I realized that she looked like the young Dickson girl, Lynn. She would have been 10 when we saw here last, but she looked just like her mother. We were very good friends with her parents at the church we attended from 1983 to 1986 and we haven't seen any of them since. I knew that her parents, Norm and Carol, became missionaries with AWANA in Scotland. But much to my surprise there they all were just 20 feet from us. I grabbed Dayle by the wrist and pulled her along...my apologies to whomever Dayle was talking to at the time.
After church we hooked up with Brian and Christine Rush and together we went to Chili's for lunch.
We also had a great time with my niece and nephew. We played a lot of hide-and-seek and Dayle played a lot on the trampoline and the skateboard with Madison, our 10 year old niece.
We departed My sister's house on the 16th and headed to our dear friends Jon and Judy Cunningham in Oakhurst, CA. They live 14 miles from the south entrance on Yosemite. We didn't go to Yosemite but it sure is pretty where they live. We also went to see our long time friends, Bob and Beth Clark who live on the opposite end of Oakhurst. We met the Clarks in 1974 at the very first church that we ever went to. It was good to catch up and to see how the Lord has been working in every one's life.
Then on Wednesday the 18th we arrived at Stephen and Neeley's house in Rancho Cordova, CA and down came the rains. I mention the rains because when I went into the 5th wheel after the rains I discovered water. It wasn't much water but just enough to let me know that the slide-out seals need to be replaced. I suppose the intense dry heat of the Arizona desert wasn't too good for the rubber seals. So off to the RV store and a couple of hours of work and all the seals are replaced.
It has been raining pretty much constantly since we arrived. However yesterday, Tuesday, the rain stopped and it gave me a chance to get out on the bicycle for a wonderful 23 mile ride on the
American River trail.
We plan on leaving Rancho Cordova next Wednesday or Thursday and heading into Klamath Falls to visit more friends and to get stuff from our storage unit.
We are still awaiting for our next assignment. But in the meantime we are enjoying our family and friends and still praying for additional financial support.
On Sunday we went to Grace Community Church and saw many friends that we have not seen in a few years. After the service I saw a young mother with her two small children walk past. She looked very familiar but I couldn't quite place her. then she walked past a second time and I realized that she looked like the young Dickson girl, Lynn. She would have been 10 when we saw here last, but she looked just like her mother. We were very good friends with her parents at the church we attended from 1983 to 1986 and we haven't seen any of them since. I knew that her parents, Norm and Carol, became missionaries with AWANA in Scotland. But much to my surprise there they all were just 20 feet from us. I grabbed Dayle by the wrist and pulled her along...my apologies to whomever Dayle was talking to at the time.
 | ||
| The Dickson Family |
After church we hooked up with Brian and Christine Rush and together we went to Chili's for lunch.
We also had a great time with my niece and nephew. We played a lot of hide-and-seek and Dayle played a lot on the trampoline and the skateboard with Madison, our 10 year old niece.
We departed My sister's house on the 16th and headed to our dear friends Jon and Judy Cunningham in Oakhurst, CA. They live 14 miles from the south entrance on Yosemite. We didn't go to Yosemite but it sure is pretty where they live. We also went to see our long time friends, Bob and Beth Clark who live on the opposite end of Oakhurst. We met the Clarks in 1974 at the very first church that we ever went to. It was good to catch up and to see how the Lord has been working in every one's life.
Then on Wednesday the 18th we arrived at Stephen and Neeley's house in Rancho Cordova, CA and down came the rains. I mention the rains because when I went into the 5th wheel after the rains I discovered water. It wasn't much water but just enough to let me know that the slide-out seals need to be replaced. I suppose the intense dry heat of the Arizona desert wasn't too good for the rubber seals. So off to the RV store and a couple of hours of work and all the seals are replaced.
It has been raining pretty much constantly since we arrived. However yesterday, Tuesday, the rain stopped and it gave me a chance to get out on the bicycle for a wonderful 23 mile ride on the
American River trail.
We plan on leaving Rancho Cordova next Wednesday or Thursday and heading into Klamath Falls to visit more friends and to get stuff from our storage unit.
We are still awaiting for our next assignment. But in the meantime we are enjoying our family and friends and still praying for additional financial support.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
We're Gone!
This past Sunday Bethany Bible Church's new pastor, Dennis McBride, delivered his first sermon as Pastor Dennis. The beginning of the service we had our "change of command." The local paper printed a press release announcing the new pastor and three people came because of that ad all of whom said that they plan to return. Attendance was 50 people in the morning and 35 in the evening. Compared to a low of 11 when we first arrived last April, that was a huge increase. How very exciting for the church. After the service they had a "hail and farewell" dinner for us and the McBrides.
Then Monday morning, we packed up and departed Arizona. We were asked to stay for a couple of weeks, but I have learned that it is never good for the ex-pastor to stay in the church. Even though I was the pastor for only 9 months I knew that the only way for the people to bond with their new pastor and leadership is for the previous pastor to get out of the way. So, we did. But we sure love Lake Havasu City and who knows, we may even settle there some day.
So, right now we are with my sister and family and my mom. Mom has been having some problem with her vision so we went to the eye doctor today for an eye examination. She has cataracts in both eyes. A surgery consultation is scheduled for the end of the month. She is not happy about this. Please keep her in your prayers especially for her salvation.
We will be in Southern California until Monday (1/16) and will then head up to Stephen and Neeley in Rancho Cordova.
 |
| The church Deacons praying for Pastor Dennis and his wife, Lynda |
 |
| The Cake ...very yummy too! |
 |
| Look at all the people! |
Then Monday morning, we packed up and departed Arizona. We were asked to stay for a couple of weeks, but I have learned that it is never good for the ex-pastor to stay in the church. Even though I was the pastor for only 9 months I knew that the only way for the people to bond with their new pastor and leadership is for the previous pastor to get out of the way. So, we did. But we sure love Lake Havasu City and who knows, we may even settle there some day.
 |
| Our dear friends and one of the most hospitable couple's we have ever met. We will miss them greatly! And so will our dogs. |
We will be in Southern California until Monday (1/16) and will then head up to Stephen and Neeley in Rancho Cordova.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
We're Done!
This past Sunday I preached my last message. On Monday I cleaned out the pastor's office. What a wonderful feeling to have set out to "work myself out of a job" and have accomplished that goal. The new pastor arrives this evening. Today a bunch of us are going over to the house that the new pastor has rented to insure that it is ready for their arrival. Tomorrow morning we will unload their truck and move them in.
There is a real sense of hope and excitement in the air as the church is looking forward. We too are very excited for Bethany Bible Church and we are excited about what the Lord has in store for us next. This next Sunday with be Pastor Dennis McBride's first Sunday. The Church is going to have a "Hail and Farewell" dinner for us and the McBrides after the morning service.
Right now we are staying in Stan and Stephanie Broder's 5th wheel trailer. We left our trailer at my brother-in-law and sister's house in Pinon Hills when we went to visit with them for Christmas. We had to move out of the RV Park to make way for new renters. So since we needed a place to stay at my sister's house, we took our trailer. We will be returning to my sister's house on the 8th or 9th and will stay with them for about a week. Then up to Neeley in Rancho Cordova (Sacramento area). We plan on being back in Klamath Falls toward the end of January. We should be in southern Oregon for about a week (+ or - a few days) to visit Annie, Mel and the kids and take care of personal business in KFalls, then up to Port Angeles to be with Jason and Shelli and the kids.
We have not received a new assignement yet but we are sure that will come soon.
Please continue to pray for Bethany Bible Church. Please continue to pray for us as we are still in need of financial support; and pray for safety as we travel, and for our next assignment.
There is a real sense of hope and excitement in the air as the church is looking forward. We too are very excited for Bethany Bible Church and we are excited about what the Lord has in store for us next. This next Sunday with be Pastor Dennis McBride's first Sunday. The Church is going to have a "Hail and Farewell" dinner for us and the McBrides after the morning service.
Right now we are staying in Stan and Stephanie Broder's 5th wheel trailer. We left our trailer at my brother-in-law and sister's house in Pinon Hills when we went to visit with them for Christmas. We had to move out of the RV Park to make way for new renters. So since we needed a place to stay at my sister's house, we took our trailer. We will be returning to my sister's house on the 8th or 9th and will stay with them for about a week. Then up to Neeley in Rancho Cordova (Sacramento area). We plan on being back in Klamath Falls toward the end of January. We should be in southern Oregon for about a week (+ or - a few days) to visit Annie, Mel and the kids and take care of personal business in KFalls, then up to Port Angeles to be with Jason and Shelli and the kids.
We have not received a new assignement yet but we are sure that will come soon.
Please continue to pray for Bethany Bible Church. Please continue to pray for us as we are still in need of financial support; and pray for safety as we travel, and for our next assignment.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Making Preparations to Depart Lake Havasu
Our departure date from Lake Havasu is now set for January 9th. It will be a bitter-sweet departure. We have met some wonderful people and have made some life-long friendships. We arrived on April 15, 2011 at Bethany Bible Church to do a job. That job being to bring this church back to life. The church was in danger of closing its doors. Attendance was about 12 people, giving was dismal, and there was virtually no enthusiasm to be found.
Well, to make a long story short these past eight months have been a lot of work, a lot of training and teaching the people to take ownership of their church, to experience the joy of serving, and the joy of being a child of God. There was much to be corrected in the church's constitution, and operating policies, as well as correcting the church's vision. So after these 8 plus months the church has turned around. Attendance has more than doubled, people are giving and are giving enough to support a pastor. We have had two church decorating parties to decorate inside and out for the celebration of Christmas. The people brought many decorations and they asked me how I want it done. I told them this is your church so decorate it the way you want---and they did--and they loved it! The ladies had a Christmas cookie exchange with testimonies, singing, games, and a devotional. People are excited about their church. I overheard one member say the other night, "Church is fun again!"
The new pastor and his wife, Dennis and Lynda McBride, should arrive on January 5th and he will preach his first sermon as Pastor on the 8th. Dennis will have a firm foundation of F.A.T. people (Faithful, Available, Teachable) upon which to build up this church and provide a good outreach into the community. We are very excited for this church and we have every reason to expect it to really flourish.
Today Stan Broder and myself began making three 7 foot tall oak bookcases for the pastor's office. We have also begun to work on the antiquated sound system and have installed a computer to record the pastor's sermons. Another member has drawn out some plans for a new sound booth which we may begin to work on next week.
But on January 9th we must leave. It will be "bitter" because we will greatly miss our new friends and fellow servants of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. It will be "sweet: because we came to do a job which has been quite trying at times, but with the Lord's help we have accomplished our goal. So for that we rejoice.
But all-in-all it has been a wonderful experience for us. We knew that there was much to be fixed and we also knew that not everyone was going to like the changes. But, since we were the "fix-it" guys and we were only here temporarily that we could be the "fall guys." We were willing to be the "bad guys" if necessary--and we were. A few people did leave the church, but some came back and some new ones stayed. But God has blessed and we now have a healthy church once again.
Please remember to pray for this church and for the new pastor and his wife. We too would appreciate your prayers as we leave Lake Havasu. We hope to take a few weeks visiting with my mom, sister and family in Southern California. Then to Neeley and Stephen in Rancho Cordova, California for a week or two before returning to Klamath Falls. In Klamath we will be going through our storage unit sorting and getting things that we need. That alone should take a couple of days. The storage unit is a mess. We also want to see friends before moving on to Grants Pass, Oregon to spend some time with Annie, Mel and the two boys. Then we will head up to Port Angeles, Washington with Jason, Shelli, and the kids. We also have to meet with Bob Rodgers, the mission director near Tacoma, WA. So, hopefully by the end of February we will be reassigned by NICE to another church that needs some assistance.
Also please pray as we are in need of some financial support. Deputation letters went out to almost everyone we know. We were missing a few addresses in our address book, so if you were missed, please don't take it personal. If you are interested is partnering with us please let us know and we will get you in contact with the mission. Or contact them directly at:
909 Main St. Suite 5
Sumner, Washington 98390
Phone: 253-826-7881 Fax: 253-863-0495
Email: office@nicechurchplanters.org
Life in the Havasu RV Resort
Being able to stay in the Havasu RV Resort has truly been a blessing. We are about 200' from the office, the mail boxes, and the Reverse Osmosis water machine. We are about 200 yards from the fitness center where we try to work out 3 or 4 times a week. The park is quite full now with snow birds from all over the country and Canada. I am really surprised at all the Oregonians. Directly across from us is a couple from the Klamath Falls area.
Last week there was a Christmas parade. Everyone decked out their ATV's and paraded through the whole park. It wasn't anything like the Klamath Falls Snow Flake Parade, but it was sure fun.
Well, to make a long story short these past eight months have been a lot of work, a lot of training and teaching the people to take ownership of their church, to experience the joy of serving, and the joy of being a child of God. There was much to be corrected in the church's constitution, and operating policies, as well as correcting the church's vision. So after these 8 plus months the church has turned around. Attendance has more than doubled, people are giving and are giving enough to support a pastor. We have had two church decorating parties to decorate inside and out for the celebration of Christmas. The people brought many decorations and they asked me how I want it done. I told them this is your church so decorate it the way you want---and they did--and they loved it! The ladies had a Christmas cookie exchange with testimonies, singing, games, and a devotional. People are excited about their church. I overheard one member say the other night, "Church is fun again!"
 |
| The adult Sunday School Class. An increase from 5 people. |
The new pastor and his wife, Dennis and Lynda McBride, should arrive on January 5th and he will preach his first sermon as Pastor on the 8th. Dennis will have a firm foundation of F.A.T. people (Faithful, Available, Teachable) upon which to build up this church and provide a good outreach into the community. We are very excited for this church and we have every reason to expect it to really flourish.
Today Stan Broder and myself began making three 7 foot tall oak bookcases for the pastor's office. We have also begun to work on the antiquated sound system and have installed a computer to record the pastor's sermons. Another member has drawn out some plans for a new sound booth which we may begin to work on next week.
But on January 9th we must leave. It will be "bitter" because we will greatly miss our new friends and fellow servants of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. It will be "sweet: because we came to do a job which has been quite trying at times, but with the Lord's help we have accomplished our goal. So for that we rejoice.
But all-in-all it has been a wonderful experience for us. We knew that there was much to be fixed and we also knew that not everyone was going to like the changes. But, since we were the "fix-it" guys and we were only here temporarily that we could be the "fall guys." We were willing to be the "bad guys" if necessary--and we were. A few people did leave the church, but some came back and some new ones stayed. But God has blessed and we now have a healthy church once again.
Please remember to pray for this church and for the new pastor and his wife. We too would appreciate your prayers as we leave Lake Havasu. We hope to take a few weeks visiting with my mom, sister and family in Southern California. Then to Neeley and Stephen in Rancho Cordova, California for a week or two before returning to Klamath Falls. In Klamath we will be going through our storage unit sorting and getting things that we need. That alone should take a couple of days. The storage unit is a mess. We also want to see friends before moving on to Grants Pass, Oregon to spend some time with Annie, Mel and the two boys. Then we will head up to Port Angeles, Washington with Jason, Shelli, and the kids. We also have to meet with Bob Rodgers, the mission director near Tacoma, WA. So, hopefully by the end of February we will be reassigned by NICE to another church that needs some assistance.
Also please pray as we are in need of some financial support. Deputation letters went out to almost everyone we know. We were missing a few addresses in our address book, so if you were missed, please don't take it personal. If you are interested is partnering with us please let us know and we will get you in contact with the mission. Or contact them directly at:
Northwest Independent Church Extension
Address:909 Main St. Suite 5
Sumner, Washington 98390
Phone: 253-826-7881 Fax: 253-863-0495
Email: office@nicechurchplanters.org
 |
| Our first "decoration party" The first in the church's history. |
 |
| Here are just a few of the people. More pictures to follow. |
 |
| Decoration in front of the pulpit. |
Life in the Havasu RV Resort
Being able to stay in the Havasu RV Resort has truly been a blessing. We are about 200' from the office, the mail boxes, and the Reverse Osmosis water machine. We are about 200 yards from the fitness center where we try to work out 3 or 4 times a week. The park is quite full now with snow birds from all over the country and Canada. I am really surprised at all the Oregonians. Directly across from us is a couple from the Klamath Falls area.
Last week there was a Christmas parade. Everyone decked out their ATV's and paraded through the whole park. It wasn't anything like the Klamath Falls Snow Flake Parade, but it was sure fun.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Our Work is Almost Finished!
 |
| Dennis and Lynda McBride |
This last weekend Pastoral Candidate, Dennis McBride and his lovely wife, Lynda, were here to officially candidate. They had been here twice before and were well received. Dennis and Lynda are well qualified and have extensive pastoral ministry experience. He is a graduate of The Master's Seminary and was on staff at Grace Community Church for many years.
Right now we are with Stephan and Neeley (our son-in-law and daughter) in the Sacramento area for thanksgiving week and will return to Lake Havasu on Saturday. Once we return we have to move out of the RV Park as our space had been previously rented to incoming snowbirds. We will be parking at Stan and Stephanie Broder's house on their RV pad. We will remain here until we depart once the McBrides arrive.
We have learned so much here at BBC. Over the past years few years we have been to many struggling churches and have noticed some patterns which have led to their current state. I also discovered that BBC had fallen into some of these same patterns. I have been documenting what I have observed and have begun to write about them. This might even turn out to be a book some day. I have already prepared a document concerning those patterns and have highlighted my observations in a leadership class which I am teaching to the men of BBC now.
We are very excited for Bethany Bible Church as is the congregation. It is apparent and so very encouraging to see the Lord at work in this once nearly dead church. All but three members are now involved in a weekly Bible study. Attendance is up and new people have come and stayed. Giving is up and has met budget for a new pastor for the past two months. The people are really getting involved and taking ownership of their church. Please continue to pray for BBC as well as our move. Also pray for our new assignment wherever that may be.
Friday, November 11, 2011
How blessed it is to see the Lord working in the hearts of the people!
This last Sunday evening (November 6th) we had another business meeting to consider four constitutional changes. At the previous meeting six weeks earlier, we presented 12 changes and none of them passed. We figured that some of the members were overwhelmed. So, we presented four crucial changes and the deacons met with every member individually and thoroughly explained each one. Last Sunday when the vote was taken, all four unanimously passed. It was thrilling to see the unity in this once very fractured group of people.
Since these four changes were passed we can now go forward with the pastoral search process. The church has asked Dennis McBride to come as an official candidate. He and his wife, Lynda, will be here on the weekend of November 19th and 20th. They have been here twice before and they are very well liked. There will be a vote on the evening of the 20th to call him as their new pastor. I expect that he will be extended a call and he has already said that he could be here the first week of January. So we should be heading back to the Northwest in January. Please keep this church in prayer!
Since these four changes were passed we can now go forward with the pastoral search process. The church has asked Dennis McBride to come as an official candidate. He and his wife, Lynda, will be here on the weekend of November 19th and 20th. They have been here twice before and they are very well liked. There will be a vote on the evening of the 20th to call him as their new pastor. I expect that he will be extended a call and he has already said that he could be here the first week of January. So we should be heading back to the Northwest in January. Please keep this church in prayer!
Friday, October 7, 2011
We are now NICE guys!
This week has been a very exhausting week due to traveling. Sunday night/Monday morning we got up at 2 a.m. and were in the car at 3 heading to the Las Vegas Airport for a 7:15 a.m departure. We arrived in Portland, Oregon and picked up the rental car and drove to the Lewis and Clark Bible Church in Astoria which was also the location for the Regional Conference. We made it in time for our 1:30 p.m. interview with the Board of Directors for NICE (Northwest Independent Church Extension of the IFCA). This interview is the final step in our application process to become missionaries for NICE. On Tuesday evening it was announced that we have been accepted. So now we are officially NICE guys. Yes, we are real missionaries.
Once we are finished here in Lake Havasu, we will return to the Pacific Northwest. Hopefully, by that time we will have raised enough support to be assigned to a church. We are seeking prayer support as well as some financial support. If you desire to partner with us in prayer please let us know and we will put you on our prayer letter list. If you should feel led to support us financially please notify the home office at:
Northwest Independent Church Extension
Address:
4113 Bridgeport Way W
P.O. Box 64750
University Place, Washington 98464
Phone: 253-564-6423
Fax: 253-565-6194
Email: office@nicechurchplanters.org
Our job will be to assist IFCA churches. We may go as trouble shooters, interim pastor, pulpit supply, or whatever a church might need. Some churches are in danger of closing their doors because numbers have dwindled and they cannot pay a pastor. We could then go as their interim pastor and not be a financial burden on the church. This is exactly what we are doing here in Lake Havasu. We are quite excited about our future as this has been a dream of ours for quite some time.
Our boss is Bob Rodgers, Executive Director of NICE. He's a NICE guy too.
The Column
164 Stairs...yikes!
On the top of the Column with our friends Merry and Allen. Notice how windy it was up there.
Dayle is holding on for dear life!
The Columbia Lightship
Once we are finished here in Lake Havasu, we will return to the Pacific Northwest. Hopefully, by that time we will have raised enough support to be assigned to a church. We are seeking prayer support as well as some financial support. If you desire to partner with us in prayer please let us know and we will put you on our prayer letter list. If you should feel led to support us financially please notify the home office at:
Northwest Independent Church Extension
Address:
4113 Bridgeport Way W
P.O. Box 64750
University Place, Washington 98464
Phone: 253-564-6423
Fax: 253-565-6194
Email: office@nicechurchplanters.org
Our job will be to assist IFCA churches. We may go as trouble shooters, interim pastor, pulpit supply, or whatever a church might need. Some churches are in danger of closing their doors because numbers have dwindled and they cannot pay a pastor. We could then go as their interim pastor and not be a financial burden on the church. This is exactly what we are doing here in Lake Havasu. We are quite excited about our future as this has been a dream of ours for quite some time.
Our boss is Bob Rodgers, Executive Director of NICE. He's a NICE guy too.
Meet the new boss ----Bob Rodgers
The Regional conference was a great time of fellowship with friends we have not seen in some time and we made some new friends. The speaker was Dr. Steve Wilt, from FIM (Fellowship International Mission) and he spoke of "Beautiful Feet" from Isaiah 52:7 and Romans 10:15 which read, "HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET OF THOSE WHO BRING GOOD NEWS OF GOOD THINGS!"
While in Astoria we had an afternoon to explore the city. We hooked up with our friends Allen and Merry Grogan, Merry is the daughter of Dean and Barb Towne from our church in Klamath Falls. They were great tour guides and took us to "The Column" which is a tall narrow tower with a spiral staircase which had 164 steps. Once on the top we had a perfect view of the Columbia River and the most dangerous inlet in the country. We also went to the Maritime Museum and got to tour the Columbia Lightship.
On the top of the Column with our friends Merry and Allen. Notice how windy it was up there.
The Columbia Lightship
Please continue to pray for Bethany Bible Church in Lake Havasu City. There is still much that must be done and I am working very closely with the leadership. I will begin a leadership training class next week to train the men of the church on what is required in a church leader. We will be using the book "Real Men Lead." Dayle is beginning a women's Bible Study on the 11th and will also be training one of the gals in the church to take it over.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
More News...Finally!
In August I dropped Dayle off at my sister Andrea's home in Pinion Hills, California to help get her home and my mom Edythe's home ready for her relocation to my sisters. My mom's house sold the first few days it was on the market and she had to be out on August 30th. After almost 3 weeks everything was packed, cleaned, and moved. My sister and family are new believers and attend church every Sunday which causes my mom real anger and bitterness. Pray that Edythe will saved by God's grace.
I went to pick up Dayle on August 29th and came home on the 31st. We celebrated our 40th Anniversary with our church family on the 4th and then Dayle was off to Mexico City for two weeks on the 6th for her sister Ellen's 30th year anniversary as a missionary in Mexico. Here are some pictures of her time there:
The past month has been a very exciting time. For the past three months the deacons and I have been working on some very important changes in the doctrinal statement and constitution. There are some serious errors which would prevent practically anyone from becoming a member, as well as making it nearly impossible to call a pastor. Among other things that are just biblically incorrect, was a statement that unless a person desiring membership or a pastoral candidate agrees with the constitution wholeheartedly and without any mental reservation he cannot be considered as a pastoral candidate. According to the constitution as it reads now even I must leave the church.
I have been teaching on these changes for the past couple of months and we sent out the proposals on the first of September with full explanations. The "big" meeting was on the 18th. According to the constitution there must be a 75% presence of all members as well as a 75% approval of all members in order to make a constitutional change. We did have the 75% at the meeting but there were also some members who have not attended in nearly three months. Well, not a single proposal was passed. This is a good illustration why godly scriptural elders should be leading the congregation. In this scenario, we had to depend on the immature, the unfaithful ones, to vote the right way. Well, they didn't.
Since nothing passed I thought we were then being told to leave because I was not qualified, according to the church constitution, to be the interim pastor. That Sunday evening, four couples said that they must resign their membership and seek another church for the same reasons. This would have killed the church since there is only 20 members and these four couples are the faithful attenders and givers.
Then, two days later they all decided not to leave but that they are going to stay and insure that the biblical changes take place. We were also asked to stay. So, another plan is in the works right now. This time the deacons are meeting with each person who voted against the changes and are explaining to them why they must be made. Another vote is scheduled for next month. Once these changes are made, then we can call a permanent pastor.
This church was still teetering on the verge of collapse but after an informal meeting last Thursday, the faithful ones (12 people) are quite optimistic for the future. The deacons are growing and looking to the bible to discern what to do about the issues concerning the church but with grace, love and compassion for those who are weak in the faith. Please keep Bethany Bible Church in your prayers.
This Monday, October 3rd, we are flying into Portland, renting a car, then driving to Astoria, Oregon for our regional conference. On Monday at 1:30 p.m. we will be having our final interview with the board of directors of NICE (Northwest Independent Church Extension of the IFCA). This is the final step in the process to become NICE missionaries. If approved we will be "special missionaries" who will be sent to struggling churches who need assistance. We could be sent as pulpit supply, interim pastor, or just to fill in while a regular pastor takes a vacation or even a sabbatical, or like here at Bethany, to go in and help fix a broken and dying church.
I went to pick up Dayle on August 29th and came home on the 31st. We celebrated our 40th Anniversary with our church family on the 4th and then Dayle was off to Mexico City for two weeks on the 6th for her sister Ellen's 30th year anniversary as a missionary in Mexico. Here are some pictures of her time there:
Dayle taught at Ellen's Wednesday Bible study for two weeks.
Hector came from Canada for Ellen's 30th anniversary. Having dinner in Ellen's kitchen.
Henry Tolopilo came from Grace Community church to speak at the celebration.
We went to visit the underground Aztec city in Mexico City. Above is the base of the pyramid.
Dayle also taught at Ellen's Thursday bible study for two weeks.
This is one of Ellen's neighbors who is not saved but came to the celebration and heard the Gospel.
Nina also came from California. She has been a long time friend. This picture was taken on the Mexican Independence Day at Wal-Mart.
The past month has been a very exciting time. For the past three months the deacons and I have been working on some very important changes in the doctrinal statement and constitution. There are some serious errors which would prevent practically anyone from becoming a member, as well as making it nearly impossible to call a pastor. Among other things that are just biblically incorrect, was a statement that unless a person desiring membership or a pastoral candidate agrees with the constitution wholeheartedly and without any mental reservation he cannot be considered as a pastoral candidate. According to the constitution as it reads now even I must leave the church.
I have been teaching on these changes for the past couple of months and we sent out the proposals on the first of September with full explanations. The "big" meeting was on the 18th. According to the constitution there must be a 75% presence of all members as well as a 75% approval of all members in order to make a constitutional change. We did have the 75% at the meeting but there were also some members who have not attended in nearly three months. Well, not a single proposal was passed. This is a good illustration why godly scriptural elders should be leading the congregation. In this scenario, we had to depend on the immature, the unfaithful ones, to vote the right way. Well, they didn't.
Since nothing passed I thought we were then being told to leave because I was not qualified, according to the church constitution, to be the interim pastor. That Sunday evening, four couples said that they must resign their membership and seek another church for the same reasons. This would have killed the church since there is only 20 members and these four couples are the faithful attenders and givers.
Then, two days later they all decided not to leave but that they are going to stay and insure that the biblical changes take place. We were also asked to stay. So, another plan is in the works right now. This time the deacons are meeting with each person who voted against the changes and are explaining to them why they must be made. Another vote is scheduled for next month. Once these changes are made, then we can call a permanent pastor.
This church was still teetering on the verge of collapse but after an informal meeting last Thursday, the faithful ones (12 people) are quite optimistic for the future. The deacons are growing and looking to the bible to discern what to do about the issues concerning the church but with grace, love and compassion for those who are weak in the faith. Please keep Bethany Bible Church in your prayers.
This Monday, October 3rd, we are flying into Portland, renting a car, then driving to Astoria, Oregon for our regional conference. On Monday at 1:30 p.m. we will be having our final interview with the board of directors of NICE (Northwest Independent Church Extension of the IFCA). This is the final step in the process to become NICE missionaries. If approved we will be "special missionaries" who will be sent to struggling churches who need assistance. We could be sent as pulpit supply, interim pastor, or just to fill in while a regular pastor takes a vacation or even a sabbatical, or like here at Bethany, to go in and help fix a broken and dying church.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)