One of the things I always enjoyed doing growing up was preparing and performing in band concerts.
One of the hardest days was the day after the concert. All of the preparation and emotion and celebration…and then it is over. You’ve probably been there, either in music, or in sports, or in preaching, or in school, or in just about anything big you have prepared for.
Fortunately, unless you are hanging it up, there is more to be experienced.
Our VBS grand finale certainly was exciting, but God does not take time off, so we are also excited to see what He has in store for us now.
Before I share more about summer opportunities, let me share how God blessed us on VBS Sunday (a.k.a. the Grand Finale).
VBS 2015 Sunday Crowd
VBS Sunday
I took this picture with my back to the door…literally. I don’t know the exact count of guests, but I am not sure we could have fit more people!
Daniel preached a great evangelistic message, and the children continued to be excited about the things they had learned and shared with their parents. Even this past Sunday some of the children came back with their parents! Thank you for praying!!
Most of the children were unchurched. Almost all of them were invited by someone, despite our efforts with fliers and publicity.
Now what?
You may be curious to know what the rest of the summer looks like (including the long overdue health update).
Bible studies and visits
We have connected with several unbelievers who have asked for Bible studies. One of Noah’s classmates’ dads has asked to bring their son to Sunday School with Noah! Another unsaved friend has asked to spend time reading the Bible together.
Music Outreach
Trying to keep my horn playing up and getting out in the community as well, I have started getting calls to go play in symphonic bands, some at a very amateur level, but others on a more semi-professional level.
I have only had one concert so far, but have already been able to share with a musician friend of mine.
The pressure is on, both musically and evangelistically! PLEASE PRAY!
Deacon Training Preparation
We have found an excellent Christian translator for our Deacon Training manual. Now we just need to get it ready to be used and go for it!!
Health Needs
I thank the Lord that it’s been over a year since my last cancer surgery in Milan. Sundays are the most painful day for me. I can tell that I do a lot more speaking. But I thank God that a little discomfort is all I have been experiencing! Please continue to pray for me as I need to go back to Milan for my checkup!
Thank you for praying! I hope you have enjoyed reading more about all God is doing here.
Our Top Seven Prayer Requests
1. For the salvation of the children from VBS and their families as well as good follow-up.
2. That I can start reading the Bible with my unsaved friend.
3. That Noah’s classmate and his family will start coming to church.
4. For boldness in evangelizing the musicians I come into contact with and good playing so that I can keep evangelizing them!
5. For leadership training in our church and that we can be ready and able to train our deacons in the fall.
Roman and Vincenzo
6. For good health and wisdom with dealing with what comes our way, especially with my cancer.
7. For Christians in Greece. We were supposed to send Roman and Vincenzo this summer to help in a camp, but because of the situation they had to cancel the camp.
