New Salem Sweethearts

Our travels this weekend brought us to New Salem Assembly in Petersburg, IL to meet up with friends Pastor Erick and Lisa Luper.

Since 8 inches of snow postponed their Sweetheart Banquet last week, Stuart and I had the good fortune to join their delectable celebration on Saturday evening before our ministry time on Sunday. 

Many thanks to Pastor Erick who artfully prepared the rib-eyes and the youth who heartfully served the sweethearts.

Surprise! We even nabbed a sweet smelling door prize.

Thank you, New Salem Assembly for a blessed weekend!

Sometimes, it really is a Crazy Small World

Yesterday, after maneuvering through blustery early morning snow (again), we enjoyed the privilege of sharing at Bethel Assembly of God in Perrysburg, OH.

After the service, this lovely woman surprised Stuart with the news that she also attended the same church in South Carolina as he did 30 years ago! 

Joanna Walls (and her late husband Cliff) attended New Life Assembly in Beaufort, South Carolina back in the 1980's while Stuart served as a marine in the same area. They had a lot of fun catching up.

Don't you just want to break into a chorus of  "It's a small world afterall . . ."

Perhaps not. But these kinds of surprises sure do make itinerating worthwhile!

Big thanks to Pastor Ted and Anna Slater for the opportunity to share our hearts and your gracious hospitality.

Burkesville, KY . . . aka, somewhere without snow

Itineration is a busy time of travel and fundraising for missionaries, but we are thankful for the opportunities to reconnect with friends and partners in ministry.

This weekend we enjoyed the hospitality of Owen and Elise Kieffer at The Old Coe House Bed & Breakfast, while we were in Burkesville, KY for a service at Living Word Ministries.

Stuart and I have known Pastor Dana and Jennifer Coverstone and family (Keilah, Micah, & Hannah) since the dawn of time.

Just kidding.

But we shared some wild and wonderful memories when they ministered at our children's home in Jamaica. 

See the video below on how to really tell the story of the mad-man of the Gaderenes so that your kids never forget it.

Alas, our service yesterday did not feature pigs, but it was wonderful all the same.

After I preached, Pastor Dana asked the children and youth to come around Stuart and I and pray for us.
(I'll post a pic as soon as I get it)
I believe this sends a powerful message to our younger generation that God uses and calls our kids and youth at any age.

If you are ever in Burkesville, KY make sure you stay at The Old Coe House Bed & Breakfast (Stuart says they have the best waffles and blueberries) and visit Living Word Ministries (say hi to Pastor Dana for us).
It'll be a weekend you'll never forget!