Mexico City Missive ~ Fall 2018

More than just lectures, papers, and exams filled our first semester as Missionaries in Residence at Evangel University. Stuart and I enjoyed our involvement with the WorldChangers Missions Club including Meal with a Missionary (with John and Dina Musacchio) and the annual Bonfire (with students, missionaries, and s'mores galore).

A wonderful Secret Church experience (with Paul & Lana Duda) and a Christmas party (not complete without little piñatas) rounded out our end of semester activities.

However, our responsibilities didn’t end there. Stuart and I also mentor two Evangel students headed abroad next summer as part of their EU studies. (Evangel University requires cross-culture experience for every student - whatever their major might be!)

Much more to come in the spring (including Global Impact week). But before we go, here's another update on the Teen ChallengeMexico project. Along with other improvements, your generosity has beautified the bedrooms with new mattresses, pillows, and bedspreads. ¡Gracias a todos!

Grace and peace,

Stuart & Wendy

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Mexico City Missive ~ Summer 2018

All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Matthew 28:18-20

Dear friends,

Did you know missionaries receive lots of fan mail? Well, maybe not fan mail, exactly. But we often receive notes of encouragement, holiday cards, and a few inquiries that get us thinking. A few years back, an inquiring mind asked how our ministry focus aligned with God’s purpose. Granted, I may not remember exactly how the sender worded the question, I do remember answering it more or less this way. No matter where Stuart and I are in the world, Jesus’ command to make disciples remains at the center of who we are and what we do.

In Jamaica, making disciples looked like caring for 40 precious children and teenagers at our children’s home. It also looked like teaching at the Assemblies of God Bible College and developing a mentorship program between those two entities.

In Mexico City, making disciples looked like teaching at Anna Sanders Seminary and preaching in our home church and other venues during our first term, and focusing our efforts at Teen Challenge Mexico during our second term.

Suffice it to say, following the call to make disciples has afforded Stuart and I the privilege to love, serve, and minister with many wonderful people in God’s wonderfully diverse world.

Just recently, the Executive Committee of World Missions granted Stuart and I approval for a short-term assignment as Missionaries in Residence (MIR) at Evangel University. This opportunity would not have happened without you. Your support over these last three terms of service (15 years!) gives us the perspective and the experience we need to inspire students in their God-given vocation and help them find their place in his Great Commission. In other words, Stuart and I will continue the process you began in your homes and churches to make educated, responsible, Spirit-led disciples to go and do likewise.

I’ve barely given you a glimpse of all the responsibilities required as a MIR. But as the year progresses, I trust you’ll be impressed with the partnership of Assemblies of God World Missions and our Assemblies of God learning institutions to provide missionary educators to create vision, promote missions, and provide your students guidance as they discover God’s call on their lives.

As I mentioned, the MIR is a short-term assignment (for the 2018-2020 academic years). Then Stuart and I will eagerly return to the field by God’s grace and your continued support. Please know, we need you just as much now as ever. Transitions are never easy. We’ve already hit a few snags that hopefully will turn out to be nothing more than inconveniences. As for now, please pray for us as we settle into a new home and into all our new responsibilities.

Grace and peace,

~ Stuart & Wendy Brown

We met the challenge! A few weeks ago, we challenged our supporters to help us give a generous offering to Teen Challenge Mexico to repair, replace, and upgrade some worn out items at their facility. In fact, you more than met the challenge and so we made these guys, as well as the directors of Reto a la Juventud, very happy. 

Thanks everyone. You're the best!

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We're up to the challenge!

Teen Challenge directors, Gamaliel and Alejandra Cerda, have guided numerous adult and young men from drug and alcohol addiction through a proven, well-structured, faith-based program. Graduates of Teen Challenge Mexico (Reto a la Juventud) leave with their dignity recovered and the strength required to take control of their lives to reintegrate with their family, or form a family free of addictions.

Stuart and I have had the privilege to serve Teen Challenge Mexico these last few years to witness such miracles.

As you can imagine, housing, feeding, and training upwards of 20 men takes it toll on the facilities. And for Teen Challenge Mexico, many of their basic necessities have worn out and need replacement or repair.

This is where you and I come in. Gamaliel and Alejandra have submitted a short list of basic necessities that need replacing (like pillows and bedspreads), a few high end repairs (of a refrigerator and freezer), and wish list to upgrade their kitchen (like an industrial blender).

Expenses total a modest $3000. With your help and generosity, we believe we are up to the challenge of raising this amount quickly and get the funds into their hands as soon as possible.

Just follow this giving link and these simple steps:

1. Choose the amount of your offering

2. Click on class 40 in the drop down box

3. Write Teen Challenge in the comment box

4. Press Give Now

Easy Peasy.

Please note, offerings exceeding the expected amount will joyously be given to Teen Challenge.

Thanks for your help!

And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward. Matthew 10:42

Y quien dé siquiera un vaso de agua fresca a uno de estos pequeños por tratarse de uno de mis discípulos, les aseguro que no perderá su recompensa. Mateo 10:42


Mexico City Missive ~ We're up to the challenge

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Mexico City Missive ~ winter 2018

Here's a snippet of our life and ministry in Mexico City for the second half of the year, 2017.

Teen Challenge Mexico, or as we know it Reto a la Juventud, provides Stuart and I opportunities to preach throughout the year as we did in the month of July. Likewise, I continue to teach English classes on Saturdays and Stuart enjoys his weekly round of futbol with the guys.

As we are able, Stuart and I also visit other Asambleas in Mexico City. In August, we worshipped with Pastors Cristobal (right) and Lourdes at Rios de Agua Viva when they invited our area director, Paul Kazim (center), to preach. I chose this delightful photo for obvious reasons.

September began happily enough with a dinner invite from Teen Challenge directors, Gamaliel and Alejandra at their home and Independence Day celebrations with our Reto family. Yet on the 19th, the anniversary of Mexico City's devastating earthquake of 1985, Mexico City rocked again from a 7.1 magnitude earthquake that left hundreds dead, thousands wounded, and many thousands more homeless. (I wrote more about it here in a previous newsletter.)

Relief efforts began immediately by the good people of Mexico as neighbors went door to door looking for volunteers and donations. Stuart and I, because of your generosity, dropped off supplies at collection sites with our trusty Speed the Light vehicle.  Well into October and beyond, Mexico City's resiliency remains strong as they continue the slow process of recovery and rebuilding.

Once again, in November, I had the privilege to speak to some of Mexico City's finest leaders at our monthly ministers breakfast for women. Although I spoke on the strength and courage of Esther, these courageous women of God shared stories that rivaled any biblical character.

In December, Stuart and I enjoyed a visit with all our kids - Olivia, Wesley, and Sophia as they came to Mexico City for the holidays. This new year looks bright with opportunity as both our daughters are set to graduate in May. Olivia from Duke Divinity with a master's degree in Theological Studies, and Sophia from Evangel University with a bachelor's degree in Communications. 

Stuart & Wendy

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No easy journey

Every resident at Teen Challenge Mexico enters the program at different stages of recovery. Some while still reeling from the effects of withdrawal. Others after months of soul-searching. Regardless, Stuart and I watch and wait, pray and rejoice over every milestone reached, every hill conquered.

Theirs is no easy journey. Each graduate testifies of the struggle and the heartache that accompany the process of recovery. Indeed, for every life mended and every relationship restored all must acknowledge and grieve that which cannot be recovered or healed. Yet hope remains. Though consequences can never be ignored, in Christ lives can always be redeemed.

With this hope, day after day, week after week our front row guys persist. Because they know (and we know) Jesus can move mountains.

Cristo puede mover montes
¡Sólo Dios puede salvar,
mi Dios puede salvar!
Por siempre, autor de salvación
Jesús la muerte venció,
Él la muerte venció

If you or someone you love in Mexico has a problem with drug or alcohol abuse, click on the link below. ¿Problemas con el uso y abuso de las drogas y alcohol? Hay solución.

Reto a la Junventud México

Mexico City Missive ~ summer 2017

A snippet of our life and ministry in Mexico City for the first half of the year, 2017.

Our new year began well with a Teen Challenge graduation in January. Testimonies and prayer highlight every ceremony, but a “thank you” dinner provided by the family always tops off the evening.

Weekly, Stuart meets with the guys to show off his mad soccer skills while Wendy leads a more low key gathering during her English class. However, the guys may have gotten a little rowdy during our Superbowl themed lesson in February.

On occasion, Stuart and I also collaborate with other missionaries like we did in Oaxaca this past March. Likewise, Wendy had the opportunity to speak at a breakfast for missionaries and other expat women living there.

One weekend in April, Stuart and I found ourselves ministering in two different countries. Stuart preached in our big metropolis at Luz a las Naciones, while Wendy preached in Greencastle, IN at the Live Fully women's encounter and the following day at The StoreHouse church. (Thanks, Pastors Troy & Teresa Trout for inviting and hosting me!)

Monthly, Wendy attends a leader's breakfast for Assemblies of God credentialed women. Our May gathering included Noemi Rodriguez (center, behind Wendy), the District Secretary of the Assemblies of God, Orfa de Perez (far left), the District Women's Leader, and Alejandra de Cerda (far right), co-director of Teen Challenge Mexico.

In June, we enjoyed our District Ministers meeting at a national park. Breakfast in the open air and group calisthenics followed by a leisurely hike in the mountains encouraged conversation and fellowship between ministers and missionaries.

                                         

Stuart & Wendy

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Leading others toward freedom

Stuart had the gracious opportunity to preach to our front row guys and an attentive crowd at Reto a la Juventud (Teen Challenge Mexico) on Sunday. Before ministering, however, we found out a little something we didn't previously realize about our Reto family.

Each Sunday at Reto a la Juventud, current residents, their families, and all who love and support them join together for worship. Stuart and I always knew graduates of Reto faithfully supported the ministry as paid staff or volunteers. We just didn't realize how many of our hermanos were graduates until this weekend.

During service, Gamaliel (co-director of Reto) called for all graduates of Teen Challenge to come forward for prayer. Knowing a few of them personally, Stuart and I anticipated about a half a dozen people to walk to the front. What a surprise when at least 4 times as many came forward! 

Those breaking free from the cycle of addiction need the support of those who understand the process and will walk with them in their journey. Thankfully, many who have benefited from the ministry of Reto a la Juventud give back in immeasurable ways week after week, contributing to the success of the program. 

Leading others toward freedom. Journeying with them in the process. Isn't that what it's all about? Stuart and I give thanks to everyone who allows us to be a part of this special ministry in Mexico City through prayer and financial support. We really couldn't do this without you.

If you or someone you love in Mexico has a problem with drug or alcohol abuse, click on the link below. ¿Problemas con el uso y abuso de las drogas y alcohol? Hay solución.

Reto a la Junventud México

Just another Missionary Monday

Stuart and I visited Oaxaca recently to join forces with friends and missionary colleagues, Ilona and Mike Hadinger, and Catherine and Efrain Figueroa.

Between speaking at a missionary gathering and ministry planning we also enjoyed a splendid mountain view from the Hadingers' home and a bit of sightseeing.

We hiked among the ancient ruins at Mitla . . . 

and visited the famous Tule tree (which boasts a circumference of more than 137 feet).

Upon our return, Stuart preached at Reto a La Juventud (Teen Challenge Mexico). Sorry, no photo! 

Then, I spoke at the monthly leadership breakfast for women hosted by Anna Sander's Seminary.

Later that same day, Stuart and I attended another graduation at Reto.

"A" prays with his dad at the close of service and then family and friends enjoyed a bowl full of pozole to complete the night's festivities.

Enjoy more photos on my Instagram account!

The Mexico City Missive ~ spring 2017

An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest. Jesus, knowing their thoughts, took a little child and had him stand beside him. Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.” Luke 9:46-48

This little one having a little fun at vacation Bible school hosted by Luz a las Naciones.

In Luke 9, Jesus sends out the twelve for a season of ministry, feeds the five thousand, affirms Peter's confession of Christ, is gloriously transfigured on the mountain, heals a boy tormented by an evil spirit, and cautions his disciples about his own betrayal. But in the middle of all that's going on, the disciples, masters of impeccable timing, decide to argue about who among them would be the greatest.

Jesus being Jesus, the master of teachable moments, redirects his disciples' attention toward a child and tells them that to welcome a child like this one – vulnerable, dependent, needy – is to welcome Jesus and the one who sent him. In other words, neither brute strength, social privilege, nor political power determines greatness. On the contrary, in God's upside kingdom the one who is least is greatest.

In a world where it was socially acceptable to only extend hospitality to those of equal or greater status, Jesus instructs his disciples to resist the merely acceptable and embrace the most vulnerable. Honor the least significant, he implores them. Welcome the least welcomed. Because true greatness is not achieved through might nor show of power, but by extending Christlike hospitality to the least of these.

This bigger one having a little fun at our Superbowl themed English class at Reto a la Juventud (Teen Challenge Mexico).

Each week, the young men of Teen Challenge Mexico enthusiastically welcome Stuart and I into their lives. Whether I am teaching English, Stuart is playing soccer, or we are celebrating a Teen Challenge graduation we are truly honored by their gracious hospitality toward us.

Likewise, these next few months, Teen Challenge has kindly invited us to preach and Stuart will be ministering at Luz a las Naciones. I will share at a couple of leadership gatherings here in Mexico City as well as in Oaxaca when we visit friends and missionary colleagues, Ilona and Mike Hadinger.

Lastly, I would like to extend an invitation to you to attend one of the Indiana District Women's Ministries Regional Encounters on April 29. Personally, I'll be attending the Central West location in Greencastle, Indiana at The StoreHouse since I happily accepted the invitation to preach there that day! Find all the information you need on their website. Hope to see you there.

Stuart & Wendy Brown

serving in mexico city

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Her name means light

Weighed down and feeling a bit discouraged this past weekend, something beautiful happened on a lowly street in Mexico City.

 

“Would you lend me a hand?” she asked, as we approached a busy intersection on our way to Teen Challenge. 

Rolling her portable shopping cart to the tianguis last Saturday, she hardly seemed like a woman who needed assistance; she practically glowed with energy, kindness, and joy.

“Where do you live?” she inquired. “Where are you from?” she kindly asked. “How amazing you can speak another language,” she admired.

What a gracious soul, I thought.

As she wrapped her arm around mine, she beamed brightly. “It's a beautiful world we live in. Don't you think? We are all brothers and sisters, no matter where we are from.”

When we arrived safely to the other side, our new friend offered a grateful “Gracias.” 

“What's your name?” I hurriedly asked, not ready to let her go.

“Luz María,” she replied.

How appropriate, I thought.

A safe place to emerge

What an adventure trying to locate a parking space in Mexico City, especially on Saturdays when Stuart and I go teach English at Teen Challenge. Sometimes it takes a few turns around the block. Sometimes a few more. Sometimes, alas, a few more than that.

This past Saturday, we happened to park in front of this little guy. I have no idea what form will emerge from this cocoon in the days or weeks to come, but I had to marvel at the fact he chose a random light pole in the middle of Mexico City as his place of transformation. Mind you, a tree stands not three feet to the left. Yet this guy hangs here, only waist high from the ground apparently oblivious to curious children, stray dogs, constant traffic, and any number of potential disruptions.

I realize Mexico City may not seem like the most hospitable place to encourage new life. However, whether you are an emerging butterfly or a recovering addict, transformation is always possible when we meet certain conditions: dedication to change, perseverance through the process, and a safe place to emerge. 

Stuart and I are pleased to be a part of Teen Challenge, a ministry that offers all this, plus the power of the Holy Spirit, to aid the recovering addict in his transformation. Throughout the year we have joyfully witnessed successful transformations as men have dedicated themselves to follow through with the program and have subsequently emerged new creations in Christ. 

Unfortunately, Stuart and I have also witnessed aborted attempts; those who left the program to return to their former life. Although we grieve for them, we trust the Lord has not abandoned them. God knows their name, he knows where they are, and will continue to call them back to a better life. That is his nature.

I've been giving the little guy above a lot of thought these last few days. I hope the best for him; I hope he survives the transformation stage. I hope he emerges strong and free. Stuart and I hope the same for the guys at Teen Challenge Mexico. Thank you for your prayers.

Blessed Lord, you ministered to all who came to you: Look with compassion upon all who through addiction have lost their health and freedom. Restore to them the assurance of your unfailing mercy; remove from them the fears that beset them; strengthen them in the work of their recovery; and to those who care for them, give patient understanding and persevering love. Amen. (BCP)

If you believe in the ministry of Teen Challenge, you can partner with us financially to help set the captive free. We gratefully receive and fully appreciate any amount donated. Thank you.

The Mexico City Missive ~ summer 2016

Stuart and I enjoyed the outstanding Olympic coverage in Mexico and the wonderful athletes who competed these last few weeks. I couldn't help but celebrate with the victors and hurt with the fallen. Like many missionaries, Stuart and I joyfully cheered on athletes from our home country as well as athletes from countries where we have served. Such extraordinary talent!

Stuart and I competed in our own Olympic event of sorts this week and are also celebrating a win. We both received a three – year residency visa from the good people of Mexico! Our experience may not seem medal worthy to some, but to us it is golden.

Although technically not an Olympic sport, applying for a residency visa seemed, at times, no less physically grueling or mentally exhausting. First, we meticulously deciphered the linguistic code on the government website for the correct way to apply (or, in our case, renew) a visa. Second, we laboriously gathered numerous (sometimes superfluous) documents to cover all possible contingencies. Lastly, after a quick photo shoot, quite a bit of $$, and lots of copies of everything we headed out.

In the span of two weeks, Stuart and I traveled to the immigration office in Mexico City five times. Five times we drove to the metro station; took three, sometimes very congested, trains (seriously, packed in like marshmallows at a chubby bunny contest); and then hailed a taxi for the final leg of the two – hour journey. Five times we waited for our number to be called to talk to a nice immigration officer. Thankfully, this week we stood victorious on the medal podium and received the coveted award.

Ministry at Teen challenge continues to expand. My Saturday morning English class has morphed into two as more young men join the program. I also began private lessons with one of the directors who wants to improve her conversational skills before a big meeting in November. Stuart has preached at Teen Challenge and we teamed together to teach in the youth class on a recent Sunday. And just for fun, Stuart usually joins the guys on Tuesday mornings to play a little b-ball and soccer.

Ministry opportunities beyond Teen Challenge include preparing the sanctuary at Luz a las Naciones for a fresh coat of paint. Stuart spent the better part of the week (when we weren't at immigration) to scrape down water – damaged and mold – infested walls. On Saturday, he joined a large group of motivated workers to complete the beautification process. It'll look great for when he preaches there next month.

Our nest is empty, but our hearts are full. Our daughter Olivia recently moved from Indiana to North Carolina to begin graduate studies at Duke Divinity. Wesley currently enjoys life and ministry in Spain as an intern with International Media Ministries. And Sophia, after a stint as chief to missionary kids at missionary training and renewal in Springfield, prepares for her junior year at Evangel University.

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