I could summarize this in three words: “A FULL DAY” and it was but sometimes preachers – at least this one when writing blogs – just uses a lot of words so why should I stop now! It began at 10:30 AM and ended at 10:15 PM when we returned to our home here. But, not only was it “a full day,” but it was a “great day.”
Three services: 11:00 - 3:00 - 5:00 with only a lunch break before the 3:00 service. Word of Life has a “Seminar Sunday” once a month in which they focus on very practical life teachings. And so it was very easy to adapt to their schedule.
We were led by the Lord to minister on the subject of Healing in the 11:00 service and saw the healing power of God displayed in the lives of many – more hands were raised testifying to healing than I could count quickly – so we will leave the numbers to God and rejoice in the display of His power in the lives of the people. But the direction of the challenge from the message was to “take the power of God to the streets and homes of their friends.” It was a continuation of the theme set on Friday evening from 2 Kings 17 – “Covenant People In Troublesome Times”.
The 3:00 service continued the theme of everyone involved in ministry as I shared on: “The Relationship of Kings and Priests” which exhorts the non-five-fold – the congregation to recognize their position and responsibility in the Kingdom of God.
The final service at 5:00 focused on the individual destiny in relationship to the corporate destiny of Word of Life from Psalm 139:13-16 – “You Have A Blueprint For Greatness” – which emphasizes the involvement of God’s planning for their lives as believers.
And the crowing part came as the pastor expressed that the Word was in alignment with his vision and what he had been imparting to the people.
And of course, no “full day of ministry” is complete without food and fellowship. So we had a good time in the home of a couple of the Church setting around a table of typical Ukrainian food.
The day ended, with the satisfaction that God has blessed our efforts and we “plopped down” in our beds to enjoy a night’s rest.
Tonight, a men’s meeting and a women’s meeting.
Thanks for your prayers and for presenting the privilege for us to represent you in Ukraine.
Dr D and Marilyn
Monday, April 29, 2013
Saturday, April 27, 2013
UKRAINE MINISTRY LOCATION NUMBER 1: Chernivts
UKRAINE MINISTRY LOCATION NUMBER 1: Chernivtsi
After battling a Kidney Stone for 10 plus days, the trip over was a “breeze,” even though it required 48 hours from crawling out of bed on Tuesday until we arrived here in Chernivtsi. (It is located in the south-western part of Ukraine close to the country of Moldova.
The first leg was air and took only 19 hours flying time to get to Kiev; 7 hours layover waiting on our train and then 14 hours to get to Chernivtsi. It was not bad, because we had “beds,” better “bunks” (and that is using the term loosely.)
Then it was time to get all things in order and discover that our schedule had another service was added to our schedule – making it 3 on Sunday – 11:00, 3:00, and 5:00. But that is the “perilous joy” of this kind of ministry. And it does make time go fast!
Our first schedule was a Thursday evening service with Pastor Dmitry and Natasha Nemchenko at Word of Life. And on Friday evening we had another service. I thought it was to be a communion service, but when I looked and there were no communion elements in sight I decided to inquire. Thank God I did! Even though it was there monthly communion service, the communion was postponed. So I turned immediately to God and asked for the direction. It was interesting. I had been trying to discover why even though I was prepared for a communion service as was previously stated, I had another message burning in my spirit. So a quick switch with my trusty iPad Mini and I was all set. Well, after changing the scriptures in my Kindle Fire for Oksana Smertina, my secretary here in Ukraine and interpreter.
When the service was complete, Pastor Dmitry approached smiling from ear to ear and the top of his head shinning (it is like mine - all ready for the glory to descend with nothing to dull the cloud). He began to tell me how he and the assistant pastor, Vitaliy Pavelenko has spent over three hours discussing the chapter I used as a my text just a couple of days previously. Isn’t God Good?
Then today, Saturday, at 4:00 until 7:00 I became a “teen leader” again. (Do not laugh - I was once s youth pastor and I know all their tricks!) Anyway it was great to see the youth again. The past two years I have been involved with them at picnics and parties. One of the greatest thrills was to see two of the youth who were in the orphanage and to whom Word of Life has ministered, involved in the youth ministry, even though they are no longer in the orphanage.
And of course, there is always the time set aside just to fellowship with the pastors. There is nothing more thrilling than having this privilege.
Marilyn will have a session with the ladies on Monday evening and I have a cell group meeting on Tuesday. Man am I privileged to share the Word with God’s special people here in Chernivtsi.
So tune in again to the blog – watch for notification if you are a friend on Facebook of Marilyn or me.
God bless and thanks for your prayers and for sending us to do this ministry.
Dr D and Marilyn
After battling a Kidney Stone for 10 plus days, the trip over was a “breeze,” even though it required 48 hours from crawling out of bed on Tuesday until we arrived here in Chernivtsi. (It is located in the south-western part of Ukraine close to the country of Moldova.
The first leg was air and took only 19 hours flying time to get to Kiev; 7 hours layover waiting on our train and then 14 hours to get to Chernivtsi. It was not bad, because we had “beds,” better “bunks” (and that is using the term loosely.)
Then it was time to get all things in order and discover that our schedule had another service was added to our schedule – making it 3 on Sunday – 11:00, 3:00, and 5:00. But that is the “perilous joy” of this kind of ministry. And it does make time go fast!
Our first schedule was a Thursday evening service with Pastor Dmitry and Natasha Nemchenko at Word of Life. And on Friday evening we had another service. I thought it was to be a communion service, but when I looked and there were no communion elements in sight I decided to inquire. Thank God I did! Even though it was there monthly communion service, the communion was postponed. So I turned immediately to God and asked for the direction. It was interesting. I had been trying to discover why even though I was prepared for a communion service as was previously stated, I had another message burning in my spirit. So a quick switch with my trusty iPad Mini and I was all set. Well, after changing the scriptures in my Kindle Fire for Oksana Smertina, my secretary here in Ukraine and interpreter.
When the service was complete, Pastor Dmitry approached smiling from ear to ear and the top of his head shinning (it is like mine - all ready for the glory to descend with nothing to dull the cloud). He began to tell me how he and the assistant pastor, Vitaliy Pavelenko has spent over three hours discussing the chapter I used as a my text just a couple of days previously. Isn’t God Good?
Then today, Saturday, at 4:00 until 7:00 I became a “teen leader” again. (Do not laugh - I was once s youth pastor and I know all their tricks!) Anyway it was great to see the youth again. The past two years I have been involved with them at picnics and parties. One of the greatest thrills was to see two of the youth who were in the orphanage and to whom Word of Life has ministered, involved in the youth ministry, even though they are no longer in the orphanage.
And of course, there is always the time set aside just to fellowship with the pastors. There is nothing more thrilling than having this privilege.
Marilyn will have a session with the ladies on Monday evening and I have a cell group meeting on Tuesday. Man am I privileged to share the Word with God’s special people here in Chernivtsi.
So tune in again to the blog – watch for notification if you are a friend on Facebook of Marilyn or me.
God bless and thanks for your prayers and for sending us to do this ministry.
Dr D and Marilyn
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
PERU: THE LAST MEETINGS NOW FOR HOME
When I talked to you last, I had Monday through Thursday free, except for some meetings with pastors and some Peruvian missionaries. Those days were great but it was very hard to “slow down.” Strange but when you are. moving at a fast pace, to slowing down is difficult. But I succeeded.
Friday, October 5th - 7th: Chincha
The two and one-half hour journey south, but that mean you are headed into the cooler climate. That is sometimes hard to get through your mind when at home south means warmer climate. Trip? No problems.
My first meeting was at Mision Cristiana Agape, pastored by Maria Isabel Martinez. This is a new church, but there were about 20 present and on a Friday evening, which is difficult due to their Peruvian lifestyle and work schedules. But upon departing we rejoiced at the new birth of two youth in their twenties. Pastor Maria has here ministerial credentials under Life Church.
Then on Saturday evening we were at Hoja Redonda A/G with pastor Obed and Abigail Nitac. This was one of the churches we worked with through the Wilkerson Ministry and assisted them in rebuilding after the earthquake five years ago. The attendance was about 60-70 and a great service, EXCEPT!
What? Okay I will confess, but be careful what you do with this information. On my way to the platform I passed a large vase filled with fresh flowers. Guess what? You are right! My coat tail caught one of the flowers and upset the vase with all the water right onto the platform all around the pulpit. And the vase broke! Yup! They did not scalp me because who wants a bald scalp. I was forgiven and finally got my composure to get on with the delivery of the Word.
Sunday, two services at Apostolico Temple, A/G pastored by Honorato and Teresa Martinez. Pastor Honorato is the father of both of the girls at the previous two churches. In fact, this Church was the first extension for Universidad Pacto De Vida (Covenant Life University) in Peru. It was their communion service and so the ministry of the Word was all about the Passover Table and how it lead to and gives us a greater understanding of the Lord’s Table.
Now you cannot go to the Martinez house without leaving carrying large sacks of fresh Peruvian fruit, and as always the sacks will contain a new and hitherto never eaten by you, a fruit from Peru. This trip was again the same. A new fruit, a new taste and once again with great insistence told that this fruit is a “miracle fruit for lower blood pressure.” Anyway you get the picture.
October 8th:
Monday we headed home - Lima - so I could spend the afternoon with Dan and Brenda Clowers, WMM Continental Coordinators for Latin America, Caribbean Region (LAMCAR). Though Lima is their home away from home, well that is their home base, we always have a hard time making our schedules so we are here at the same time. But we made it and had a great time discussing the Peruvian ministry and how to proceed with the same pattern, so we are both headed there together.
October 9th:
Packed, waiting to depart my home here for the airport, departing at 2:01 through Panama then Miami.
God bless and thanks for your prayers,
Dr D
Friday, October 5th - 7th: Chincha
The two and one-half hour journey south, but that mean you are headed into the cooler climate. That is sometimes hard to get through your mind when at home south means warmer climate. Trip? No problems.
My first meeting was at Mision Cristiana Agape, pastored by Maria Isabel Martinez. This is a new church, but there were about 20 present and on a Friday evening, which is difficult due to their Peruvian lifestyle and work schedules. But upon departing we rejoiced at the new birth of two youth in their twenties. Pastor Maria has here ministerial credentials under Life Church.
Then on Saturday evening we were at Hoja Redonda A/G with pastor Obed and Abigail Nitac. This was one of the churches we worked with through the Wilkerson Ministry and assisted them in rebuilding after the earthquake five years ago. The attendance was about 60-70 and a great service, EXCEPT!
What? Okay I will confess, but be careful what you do with this information. On my way to the platform I passed a large vase filled with fresh flowers. Guess what? You are right! My coat tail caught one of the flowers and upset the vase with all the water right onto the platform all around the pulpit. And the vase broke! Yup! They did not scalp me because who wants a bald scalp. I was forgiven and finally got my composure to get on with the delivery of the Word.
Sunday, two services at Apostolico Temple, A/G pastored by Honorato and Teresa Martinez. Pastor Honorato is the father of both of the girls at the previous two churches. In fact, this Church was the first extension for Universidad Pacto De Vida (Covenant Life University) in Peru. It was their communion service and so the ministry of the Word was all about the Passover Table and how it lead to and gives us a greater understanding of the Lord’s Table.
Now you cannot go to the Martinez house without leaving carrying large sacks of fresh Peruvian fruit, and as always the sacks will contain a new and hitherto never eaten by you, a fruit from Peru. This trip was again the same. A new fruit, a new taste and once again with great insistence told that this fruit is a “miracle fruit for lower blood pressure.” Anyway you get the picture.
October 8th:
Monday we headed home - Lima - so I could spend the afternoon with Dan and Brenda Clowers, WMM Continental Coordinators for Latin America, Caribbean Region (LAMCAR). Though Lima is their home away from home, well that is their home base, we always have a hard time making our schedules so we are here at the same time. But we made it and had a great time discussing the Peruvian ministry and how to proceed with the same pattern, so we are both headed there together.
October 9th:
Packed, waiting to depart my home here for the airport, departing at 2:01 through Panama then Miami.
God bless and thanks for your prayers,
Dr D
Sunday, September 30, 2012
PERU: “SERVING CONTINUES” AT FULL SPEED AHEAD!
Sunday, September 23rd:
We concluded our ministry at Iglesia Centro Cristiano De Avivamiento with Pastor Gustavo & Jenny Rodriquez on Sunday morning and experienced a fabulous worship service and saw the numerical growth was forcing them to find new facilities and because the building owners had taken away their usage of rooms for their children. But to accomplish this in Lima requires a lot from the people as well as the Hand of God to open new and better facilities. So remember them in your prayers.
Sunday evening I head out to Ventanilla to minister at Christ is the Lord A/G, pastored by David Olaya. The building will hold about 100 comfortably but they packed in approximately 150, but some had to sit outside the front doors. Another great time with God’s people and a door opening for Universidad Pacto de Vida. And an “arm twisting” by the pastor to promise to return to them on my next visit, not only to serve, but to “eat a feast of typical Peruvian food”. Now that is what I call an INVITATION!”
I cannot remember a day when I served two churches that pulled everything out of me. I have had at least one do that, but not two. I went home totally exhausted and fell into bed, very glad that Monday and Tuesday were rest days – well at least no scheduled services. Why? Because every day is a day of serving in some way and Monday was no exception.
Monday - Tuesday, September 24th, 25th:
I did get “some rest” on Monday even though we went back to Jicamarca to see David and Ceci and make some last minute notes in preparation for the Life Church Team scheduled in May of next year. And to assist David with some planning for other potential teams as well as areas in which he requested assistance to help the Church to continue to go forward.
Tuesday was “Good-by to Marilyn” by taking her to the airport for her return to Ft. Myers. Then I went back to my “home” and crashed for the rest of the day.
Wednesday, September 26th:
Puente Piedra was my destination to serve Communidad Cristiana La Vina (Vineyard Christian Community), Guillermo & Lisset Sifuentes, pastors. They are training some “youth” above 18 years of age to be leaders and so we sat down (a welcome position) and challenged to from the Word about some basic requirements for leadership.
Thursday, September 27th:
To the Rimac region of Lima to be with Pastor Carlos and Jessica Monzon at Iglesia El Comino. They have an extension of Universidad Pacto de Vida and begin their third division of the first year next week. The Word was directed to them as leaders. What can I say: Another good time with loving people of God.
Friday, September 28th:
Independencia, beckons again this trip and I was with Pastor Jorge and — Alva at Iglesia Cristiana El Camino. The service was a meeting of a Fraternity of Pastors in this area of Independencia. Ten pastors were there along with some of their congregation. It was definitely a unique time. The unity between the the pastors is fabulous. They meet twice a month just to pray together and share what is happing in their church and community --- AND — they also share their needs and problems openly. This was definitely evident at the meal and fellowship afterwards. You could see their love for one-another. You know: I call that BEING A CHRISTIAN! I wonder what would happen if that the norm for every area in every city. Do you think you might just a great move of God take place? My only problem was the full chicken meal at 11:00 PM and trying to go home and sleep and be ready for three hours of teaching on Saturday.
Saturday, September 29th:
Back to Iglesia Centro Cristiano De Avivamiento with Pastor Gustavo & Jenny Rodriquez for a Youth Seminar, ages 16-30. I know! It has been quite a while since I was a youth pastor, but I do remember being a youth and I do think I can still relate when it comes to presenting the Word. The focus was on the Questions: Dating? Sex? The answer: Y.E.S! - Youth Education Seminar. How did I do? According to the Facebook comments - I passed! I will let the final score come from them. But I will say, there were several times when there where no sounds in the room. I mean what do you say when the “Old Man” is talking about sex? And in a straight forward “lay it out like it is language” when youth fail to follow biblical standards and parental and pastoral guidelines.
Sunday, September 30th: Another BIG day!
In the morning I was with Pastor Jorge and Janine Watanabe, pastors in Elio at Iglesia Pentecostal de Santidad (The Pentecostal Holiness Church). Pastor Watanabe is also the Superintendent of the IPHC in Peru.
What about the sermon? Well I presented what God directed. It was confirmed by several people to be right on target. So we will leave it at that and move on to their Coffee House where we gathered afterwards for a lunch. You Facebook Friends can see the pictures.
Then it was a quick nap and on to the 6:00 service at Christ Is The Way A/G led by Pastor Panfilo. I am sorry but no one has provided me with his first name or that of his wife. Their warmth and reception of the Word was delightful and the Peruvian Donuts afterwards were “delicious”. In case you are not aware that in Peru you eat your donuts in the evening sometime after 5:30 pm. Sweets are not for breakfast. But as I ate them I wished for them to be available in the morning with my cup of Starbucks coffee!
O yes! Seven of their congregation are graduates of the first year of Universidad Pacto de Vida.
And now I am on the downward spiral. Just over one week and back into the air. And I have Monday through Thursday FREE! Well, that is, no services, but meetings with several pastors for fellowship and dispensing of answers to questions - so the days are not entirely “free”.
God bless and thanks again for your prayers,
Dr D
We concluded our ministry at Iglesia Centro Cristiano De Avivamiento with Pastor Gustavo & Jenny Rodriquez on Sunday morning and experienced a fabulous worship service and saw the numerical growth was forcing them to find new facilities and because the building owners had taken away their usage of rooms for their children. But to accomplish this in Lima requires a lot from the people as well as the Hand of God to open new and better facilities. So remember them in your prayers.
Sunday evening I head out to Ventanilla to minister at Christ is the Lord A/G, pastored by David Olaya. The building will hold about 100 comfortably but they packed in approximately 150, but some had to sit outside the front doors. Another great time with God’s people and a door opening for Universidad Pacto de Vida. And an “arm twisting” by the pastor to promise to return to them on my next visit, not only to serve, but to “eat a feast of typical Peruvian food”. Now that is what I call an INVITATION!”
I cannot remember a day when I served two churches that pulled everything out of me. I have had at least one do that, but not two. I went home totally exhausted and fell into bed, very glad that Monday and Tuesday were rest days – well at least no scheduled services. Why? Because every day is a day of serving in some way and Monday was no exception.
Monday - Tuesday, September 24th, 25th:
I did get “some rest” on Monday even though we went back to Jicamarca to see David and Ceci and make some last minute notes in preparation for the Life Church Team scheduled in May of next year. And to assist David with some planning for other potential teams as well as areas in which he requested assistance to help the Church to continue to go forward.
Tuesday was “Good-by to Marilyn” by taking her to the airport for her return to Ft. Myers. Then I went back to my “home” and crashed for the rest of the day.
Wednesday, September 26th:
Puente Piedra was my destination to serve Communidad Cristiana La Vina (Vineyard Christian Community), Guillermo & Lisset Sifuentes, pastors. They are training some “youth” above 18 years of age to be leaders and so we sat down (a welcome position) and challenged to from the Word about some basic requirements for leadership.
Thursday, September 27th:
To the Rimac region of Lima to be with Pastor Carlos and Jessica Monzon at Iglesia El Comino. They have an extension of Universidad Pacto de Vida and begin their third division of the first year next week. The Word was directed to them as leaders. What can I say: Another good time with loving people of God.
Friday, September 28th:
Independencia, beckons again this trip and I was with Pastor Jorge and — Alva at Iglesia Cristiana El Camino. The service was a meeting of a Fraternity of Pastors in this area of Independencia. Ten pastors were there along with some of their congregation. It was definitely a unique time. The unity between the the pastors is fabulous. They meet twice a month just to pray together and share what is happing in their church and community --- AND — they also share their needs and problems openly. This was definitely evident at the meal and fellowship afterwards. You could see their love for one-another. You know: I call that BEING A CHRISTIAN! I wonder what would happen if that the norm for every area in every city. Do you think you might just a great move of God take place? My only problem was the full chicken meal at 11:00 PM and trying to go home and sleep and be ready for three hours of teaching on Saturday.
Saturday, September 29th:
Back to Iglesia Centro Cristiano De Avivamiento with Pastor Gustavo & Jenny Rodriquez for a Youth Seminar, ages 16-30. I know! It has been quite a while since I was a youth pastor, but I do remember being a youth and I do think I can still relate when it comes to presenting the Word. The focus was on the Questions: Dating? Sex? The answer: Y.E.S! - Youth Education Seminar. How did I do? According to the Facebook comments - I passed! I will let the final score come from them. But I will say, there were several times when there where no sounds in the room. I mean what do you say when the “Old Man” is talking about sex? And in a straight forward “lay it out like it is language” when youth fail to follow biblical standards and parental and pastoral guidelines.
Sunday, September 30th: Another BIG day!
In the morning I was with Pastor Jorge and Janine Watanabe, pastors in Elio at Iglesia Pentecostal de Santidad (The Pentecostal Holiness Church). Pastor Watanabe is also the Superintendent of the IPHC in Peru.
What about the sermon? Well I presented what God directed. It was confirmed by several people to be right on target. So we will leave it at that and move on to their Coffee House where we gathered afterwards for a lunch. You Facebook Friends can see the pictures.
Then it was a quick nap and on to the 6:00 service at Christ Is The Way A/G led by Pastor Panfilo. I am sorry but no one has provided me with his first name or that of his wife. Their warmth and reception of the Word was delightful and the Peruvian Donuts afterwards were “delicious”. In case you are not aware that in Peru you eat your donuts in the evening sometime after 5:30 pm. Sweets are not for breakfast. But as I ate them I wished for them to be available in the morning with my cup of Starbucks coffee!
O yes! Seven of their congregation are graduates of the first year of Universidad Pacto de Vida.
And now I am on the downward spiral. Just over one week and back into the air. And I have Monday through Thursday FREE! Well, that is, no services, but meetings with several pastors for fellowship and dispensing of answers to questions - so the days are not entirely “free”.
God bless and thanks again for your prayers,
Dr D
Sunday, September 23, 2012
PERU: CONGRESS ON MARRIAGE AND FUNDAMENTALS OF A SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGE
Marriage is now – well I better say – we have completed the marriage seminars for this year. I was going to say, “over” but I will not say that.
And before I go on, I must make a correction: I stated we were in Independencia at “Prince of Peace” but we were there at “Dulce Refugio” with Pastor Gilberto and Doris Varillas. How I switched the name is beyond my comprehension, but I have done that for the last two years. And now back to the report .
Friday, September 21st:
I do I describe the final service? The final episode of “Love and Marriage” by the youth, a presentation on the Five Love Languages by Marilyn and an inspirational challenge by Dr D (that’s me) of the seven actions Paul speaks about in Ephesians 5:25-30, concluding with a renewal of marriage vows.
Then we sat down to a banquet including a roving Christian singer using love ballads and a Christian songs to inspire the couples.
Then it was off to try to get some sleep, arise and move on to the next ministry opportunity which was scheduled to begin at 9:30 AM.
Saturday, September 22nd:
We spent the day, from 9:30 to 5:30 at Iglesia Centro Cristiano De Avivamiento: Pastor Gustavo & Jenny Rodriquez and our hosts, Roger and Magally Falcon as interpreters (they are also the assistant pastors.)
Teachings, a question and answer session, another great meal and of course Peruvian fellowship all filled the day with pleasure and an honor to be able to share with God’s people about the foundation of the Church - marriage and family.
You do know that the first Church was a “family” don’t you? Anyway, as the families of a Church are strong so is the Church but if they are weak, the Church is weak. And you are aware that the first attack on the Church was on a family? Well that was the premise of the day’s teaching.
A quiet evening with the Falcons at Larcamar overlooking the Pacific Ocean while eating an “Evening Tea” concluded the events of the day and provided warmth as we crawled into our beds.
God bless and thanks for your prayers,
Dr D and Marilyn
And before I go on, I must make a correction: I stated we were in Independencia at “Prince of Peace” but we were there at “Dulce Refugio” with Pastor Gilberto and Doris Varillas. How I switched the name is beyond my comprehension, but I have done that for the last two years. And now back to the report .
Friday, September 21st:
I do I describe the final service? The final episode of “Love and Marriage” by the youth, a presentation on the Five Love Languages by Marilyn and an inspirational challenge by Dr D (that’s me) of the seven actions Paul speaks about in Ephesians 5:25-30, concluding with a renewal of marriage vows.
Then we sat down to a banquet including a roving Christian singer using love ballads and a Christian songs to inspire the couples.
Then it was off to try to get some sleep, arise and move on to the next ministry opportunity which was scheduled to begin at 9:30 AM.
Saturday, September 22nd:
We spent the day, from 9:30 to 5:30 at Iglesia Centro Cristiano De Avivamiento: Pastor Gustavo & Jenny Rodriquez and our hosts, Roger and Magally Falcon as interpreters (they are also the assistant pastors.)
Teachings, a question and answer session, another great meal and of course Peruvian fellowship all filled the day with pleasure and an honor to be able to share with God’s people about the foundation of the Church - marriage and family.
You do know that the first Church was a “family” don’t you? Anyway, as the families of a Church are strong so is the Church but if they are weak, the Church is weak. And you are aware that the first attack on the Church was on a family? Well that was the premise of the day’s teaching.
A quiet evening with the Falcons at Larcamar overlooking the Pacific Ocean while eating an “Evening Tea” concluded the events of the day and provided warmth as we crawled into our beds.
God bless and thanks for your prayers,
Dr D and Marilyn
Friday, September 21, 2012
PERU: CONGRESS ON MARRIAGE
Wednesday- Thursday, September 19th-20th:
It was select and pack time. So we picked out a few “rags” (not really but you get the drift) and stuffed them into our carry-on luggage, dropped them in Marco’s car and headed out to Independencia, Principe de Paz (Prince of peace) - Pastor Gilberto & Doris Varillas for a three day “Congress on Marriage.”
This “city,” Metro-Lima is so large and can become a major parking lot during rush hour that it was deemed best if we just spent the time there instead of driving 2 hours plus each day. Pastor Varillas is remodeling a large 14 room house so there is plenty of room and we have the place to ourselves most of the day. And of course one of the most important items – NO! Starbucks is not close – but Wifi!
This is one well-planned event filled with youth participating in there dance, drama depicting the “Art of Falling in Love” and serving the adults with a small sandwich and a drink during break.
Pastor Gilberto has PowerPoint Presentations depicting the divorce statistics, the resulting crimes by youth and various other information to highlight the need and emphasize the need for the teaching we are doing at this “Congress on Marriage.”
We have been splitting the teaching time. Marilyn with her “practical insightful from the eyes of a woman and mother” and me with my standard teaching sprinkled with my natural humor – believe it or not – I do have humor inside of me – but it only flows when I am outside of the US. (They put people in white suits with locks for less than that in the US and I am not a candidate for such a suit.)
Tonight, (Friday) we wrap it up. So standby for the conclusion – to arrive – when? I am not sure as we will get back to our “home” very late or early (not sure which) and we begin Saturday at 8:45 AM.
So until you read more ramblings,
Thanks for your prayers,
Dr D & Marilyn
It was select and pack time. So we picked out a few “rags” (not really but you get the drift) and stuffed them into our carry-on luggage, dropped them in Marco’s car and headed out to Independencia, Principe de Paz (Prince of peace) - Pastor Gilberto & Doris Varillas for a three day “Congress on Marriage.”
This “city,” Metro-Lima is so large and can become a major parking lot during rush hour that it was deemed best if we just spent the time there instead of driving 2 hours plus each day. Pastor Varillas is remodeling a large 14 room house so there is plenty of room and we have the place to ourselves most of the day. And of course one of the most important items – NO! Starbucks is not close – but Wifi!
This is one well-planned event filled with youth participating in there dance, drama depicting the “Art of Falling in Love” and serving the adults with a small sandwich and a drink during break.
Pastor Gilberto has PowerPoint Presentations depicting the divorce statistics, the resulting crimes by youth and various other information to highlight the need and emphasize the need for the teaching we are doing at this “Congress on Marriage.”
We have been splitting the teaching time. Marilyn with her “practical insightful from the eyes of a woman and mother” and me with my standard teaching sprinkled with my natural humor – believe it or not – I do have humor inside of me – but it only flows when I am outside of the US. (They put people in white suits with locks for less than that in the US and I am not a candidate for such a suit.)
Tonight, (Friday) we wrap it up. So standby for the conclusion – to arrive – when? I am not sure as we will get back to our “home” very late or early (not sure which) and we begin Saturday at 8:45 AM.
So until you read more ramblings,
Thanks for your prayers,
Dr D & Marilyn
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Sunday, September 16thPERU – MOVING ON IN THIS JOURNEY:
It is amazing how the days here seem to be different from home. I guess it is because of the different time schedule for Church services. And today began typically of many other Sundays overseas. You wake up slowly, get your self together and begin to function (I think that is what I did!!). Anyway we departed at 10:40 AM for a service with Pastor Agustin and Jessica Ciccia at New Strength (Nuevas Fuerzas).
I knew what my assignment was even before packing for this trip: Minister on the Biblical Evidence for the Baptism In The Holy Spirit. And I carried out that assignment, resulting in 4-5 receiving and testifying to their experience because they “heard” their voice speaking in a language they did not know. Another 4-5 were re-filled after having forsake their previous experience. There were another 7-8 at the altar and I do not personally know about their experience, but I can say they were “hungry and thirsty” and I know God will answer their thirst.
We finally got to the restaurant about 3:00 and had to rush to finish our meal. Pastor Agustin and I left the rest sitting at the table and walked eight blocks to his house to meet Marco Aaron and head out for a 5:00 PM service in Independencia at Communiblica Vision Celestial - Pastor Rolando Martinzez. Vision Celestial is one of the Churches involved in Universidad Pacto de Vida (Covenant Life University).
Then it was back to Ciccia home to await Marilyn. Where was she? She was attending her first Peruvian Wedding Shower. We had committed to attend the wedding, but our schedule had changed prior to leaving for Peru, and so we had to inform her we would not be there, so this was a replacement. She is a doctor, marrying a Doctor – you know: Doctor to Doctor!
It was 8:00 PM when I finally got back to the Ciccia home and I was ready for my bed, but it was still another 30 minutes away. Now this shower was to start at 5:00 PM. It was now 3 hours later and it had just really got started. No food, no fun – you ladies know all about that stuff – and guys we do not even want to hear any more so I will stop. BUT! I could see that it was going to be a late night.
So with great patience I made a call to Marilyn. That was after Pastor Agustin made one. Then after mine he called his wife again. I received notice to pick Marilyn up about 9:30 PM. Reluctantly I obeyed. (Honestly it was with enthusiasm!) I WILL NEVER DO IT AGAIN! WHY? SHE DID NOT GET TO EAT THE SPECIAL CUPCAKES OR ANY CAKE!
Guys do you know – are you aware of the MISTAKE I made? I am alive but I am paying for it! (LOL).
Monday, September 17th:
A day to relax? Yes and No! David and Ceci came by to discuss some pending plans and so we spent the day discussing, going out for pizza and then a supper meeting with a new couple who have started attending their church in Jicamarca, even though they live in the area of Brena (I know! This means nothing to you from North America). Anyway both husband and wife are involved in the investigative department of the Peruvian law department, similar to the District Attorney’s office in the US. The wife had attended the Ladies Retreat Marilyn hosted in March of this year.
Then it was back to the Falcon residence to find my “nest” but that was after a stop at Metro for some late night desert – an attempt to replace the Wedding Shower disappointment for my wife. She was satisfied, for the moment and I, well it was too rich and I paid for it again. I wonder: Did she know that would happen? Did she plot this to get even? Naw! She would not do that, would she? I will never know.
Tuesday, September 19th:
A day of rest and preparation for beginning a three evening teaching for Principe de Paz - Pastor Gilberto & Doris Varillas – “Congress of Marriage” in Independencia Wednesday through Friday.
So will I rest, I will let you rest.
God bless and thanks for your prayers,
Dr D & Marilyn
It is amazing how the days here seem to be different from home. I guess it is because of the different time schedule for Church services. And today began typically of many other Sundays overseas. You wake up slowly, get your self together and begin to function (I think that is what I did!!). Anyway we departed at 10:40 AM for a service with Pastor Agustin and Jessica Ciccia at New Strength (Nuevas Fuerzas).
I knew what my assignment was even before packing for this trip: Minister on the Biblical Evidence for the Baptism In The Holy Spirit. And I carried out that assignment, resulting in 4-5 receiving and testifying to their experience because they “heard” their voice speaking in a language they did not know. Another 4-5 were re-filled after having forsake their previous experience. There were another 7-8 at the altar and I do not personally know about their experience, but I can say they were “hungry and thirsty” and I know God will answer their thirst.
We finally got to the restaurant about 3:00 and had to rush to finish our meal. Pastor Agustin and I left the rest sitting at the table and walked eight blocks to his house to meet Marco Aaron and head out for a 5:00 PM service in Independencia at Communiblica Vision Celestial - Pastor Rolando Martinzez. Vision Celestial is one of the Churches involved in Universidad Pacto de Vida (Covenant Life University).
Then it was back to Ciccia home to await Marilyn. Where was she? She was attending her first Peruvian Wedding Shower. We had committed to attend the wedding, but our schedule had changed prior to leaving for Peru, and so we had to inform her we would not be there, so this was a replacement. She is a doctor, marrying a Doctor – you know: Doctor to Doctor!
It was 8:00 PM when I finally got back to the Ciccia home and I was ready for my bed, but it was still another 30 minutes away. Now this shower was to start at 5:00 PM. It was now 3 hours later and it had just really got started. No food, no fun – you ladies know all about that stuff – and guys we do not even want to hear any more so I will stop. BUT! I could see that it was going to be a late night.
So with great patience I made a call to Marilyn. That was after Pastor Agustin made one. Then after mine he called his wife again. I received notice to pick Marilyn up about 9:30 PM. Reluctantly I obeyed. (Honestly it was with enthusiasm!) I WILL NEVER DO IT AGAIN! WHY? SHE DID NOT GET TO EAT THE SPECIAL CUPCAKES OR ANY CAKE!
Guys do you know – are you aware of the MISTAKE I made? I am alive but I am paying for it! (LOL).
Monday, September 17th:
A day to relax? Yes and No! David and Ceci came by to discuss some pending plans and so we spent the day discussing, going out for pizza and then a supper meeting with a new couple who have started attending their church in Jicamarca, even though they live in the area of Brena (I know! This means nothing to you from North America). Anyway both husband and wife are involved in the investigative department of the Peruvian law department, similar to the District Attorney’s office in the US. The wife had attended the Ladies Retreat Marilyn hosted in March of this year.
Then it was back to the Falcon residence to find my “nest” but that was after a stop at Metro for some late night desert – an attempt to replace the Wedding Shower disappointment for my wife. She was satisfied, for the moment and I, well it was too rich and I paid for it again. I wonder: Did she know that would happen? Did she plot this to get even? Naw! She would not do that, would she? I will never know.
Tuesday, September 19th:
A day of rest and preparation for beginning a three evening teaching for Principe de Paz - Pastor Gilberto & Doris Varillas – “Congress of Marriage” in Independencia Wednesday through Friday.
So will I rest, I will let you rest.
God bless and thanks for your prayers,
Dr D & Marilyn
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