New Groups

We thank God for reports from Jonathan Lloyd and co-worker D, of the beginning of a fifth Evangelistic Bible Study Group (EBSG) in Village 4, a second Believers’ Bible Study Group (BBSG) in Village 2, and the prospect of a another BBSG starting soon in Village 3. The new EBSG, begun in August, has about eight adults who seriously want to study God's Word.

During the month of September several in Village 2 gave testimony of having assurance of salvation through faith in Christ alone. They have since begun to meet regularly to grow in their relationship with God. In Village 3, we anticipate the beginning of a third believers’ group in late October or November.

Please pray that God would provide good meeting places for the believers' groups and sustain interest in all of the evangelistic groups.

Recent Visitors

We thank God for the invaluable contributions of recent visitors. Jonathan's parents, Don and Mary Lloyd, helped to secure materials for the Mpalume mission house renovations in March. Tim and Rebecca Bond developed friendships in villages where we work and helped the Lloyds and us in practical ways in June and July.

Paul, Becca, Makenzie, Anna, Sarah, and Kim, a Priority 1 team, taught orphans at Passion Children's Center in July. Tim and Victoria Zook visited her parents, Steve and Reenie Ginder, in July. Bob and Gail Brubaker visited their daughter, Erica and Jonathan, and worked hard to put a new metal roof on the mission house in July.

Fred and Jan, friends from Jonathan and Erica's home church, visited the Lloyds and helped remodel their kitchen in August. Graybill and Ethel Brubaker visited their granddaughter, Erica and Jonathan, in September, and also helped with renovations.

Please pray that God will bless these friends and relatives for their encouragement and practical support.

Training Opportunities

Seth and Steven had the privilege of receiving evangelism training under BICWM and Operation Mobilization in July. They grew in their faith in the authenticity of the Bible and confidence to talk to people about Jesus.

Doug and Barb attended a weekend Noble Partners Marriage Conference in Dallas in August and renewed their commitment to fulfill God's purpose for their marriage. Sara trained for four weeks in Indianapolis with Telos in August and God helped her to become a Certified Nurse Assistant.

In October Doug joined BICWM regional administrators and team leaders in Madrid for a three day consultation for training, vision development and team building.

Please thank God with us for these opportunities for growth and pray for God's help for wise application.

Home Ministry Highlights

We feel honored to have had the opportunity to report on God's work in Malawi, be prayed for in person and supported generously, to gain new prayer partners, to see people answer the call to cross-cultural missions, and to be able to receive training and visit family and friends.

Please pray that God will help us to make the most of every opportunity to encourage others and to be refreshed.

Character Corner: Loyalty

Loyalty vs. Unfaithfulness

Using difficult times to show my commitment.

Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. (John 15:13, NIV)

At the Noble Partner’s Marriage Conference we learned that loyalty for a woman means her husband’s hanging in there during the “ocean of emotions.” We’re grateful for the opportunity to learn useful tools such as “the blessing” and “courageous conversations” to fulfill our commitment as noble partners.

"...The noble man makes noble plans, and by noble deeds he stands." (Isaiah 32:8, NIV)

Please pray that God will help us to build each other and our children up in love. (See Ephesians 4:16-17)

Upcoming Events:

Sep. 24: Susanna’s 15th Birthday
Oct. 1: Barb's Birthday
Oct. 6-8: Madrid Consultation for Reg. Administrators and Team Leaders
Oct. 16-26: Equipping Teams & Team Leaders Seminar, CIT, NC
Oct. 17: Sharon's Birthday
Oct. 30- Nov. 3: Strengthening Your Interpersonal Skills Seminar, CIT, NC
Nov. 4-20: Jonathan Lloyd joins the Pastors' Vision Trip to India