MISSIONS

Serving Jesus Christ Through His Church, Worldwide!

Click Here For Our Missions Spotlight
 

Missionary Location
Howard & Joanne Brant SIM -Serving In Missions
Michael & Athena Kantartjis One Challege-Athens, Greece
David & Phyllis Enns World Team-RBMU International - Singapore
Carol Magnusson
 
Wycliffe Bible Translators - Ethiopia
Valen & Carol Straley Inter Act Ministries - British Columbia
Richard & Connie Smith Cross Ministries- Virginia
Vladimir & Nadia Savich Slavic Gospel Association
Joe & Brenda Ziska Greater Europe Mission - Austria
John & Mel Bjorgen Baptist General Conference-Belize
Robert & Katherine Rodgers N.I.C.E. -Washington
Roy & Elvia Sprague N.I.C.E. -Washington
Camas Meadows Bible Camp Cashmere, Washington
Plateau Outreach Ministries Enumclaw, Washington
   

 

Missions Spotlight
 

Voice of the Martyrs
December 2nd-
"Dong" waited for nightfall before slipping away from his wooden house, which sits on stilts in Vietnam's highland. He silently pushed his motorcycle to the main road before starting the engine. As he lifted his leg over the seat, he quickly glanced back toward his house, never knowing when the local police might be watching. He hadn't even dared to bring a Bible, for fear of being stopped along the way. But it didn't matter--the Word was written in his heart. With all quiet behind him, Dong headed into the mountains.

His legs were stiff when he brought his motorcycle to a stop six hours later. The road had been rough, rocky and non-existent in places. Thankfully, it was the dry season so there wasn't much mud. Still, without the motorcycle, it would have taken him days.

Dong wasn't the only one who had made a long journey. A group of new believers from an even more remote area of Vietnam were already waiting for Dong. They had walked all night to meet him at the camp where he would then hear about Jesus for three days and nights. Though their journey had been difficult and dangerous at times, they were thrilled to learn about a God who loved them. The Voice of the Martyrs give thought to the freedoms we have in worshipping our Savior. Millions throughout the world have to meet in secret; if caught they suffer persecution, torture, and death. Pray for them, pray for us!

John & Mel Bjorgen, Baptist General Conference & Richard & Connie Smith, Cross Resources
November 25-
John Bjorgen, in Belize, requested prayer for the Director of Belize Mission and Retreat with whom they have served the last three years. Basil de Klerk is very ill and by this time has been medevac'd from the hospital there, to the States. An infection turned into meningoencephalitis (infection of both the fluid in the sac surrounding the brain and the brain itself) which in turn has led to other complications. The doctors in Belize are having difficulty bringing these complications under control. Please lift him up in prayer as well as his wife, Vera.

Richard and Connie Smith with Cross Resources, Inc., a Prayer Resolution Ministry, say that Richard's health is improving. Connie's health continues to be very good. September they didn't work with anyone in Prayer Resolution but dealt with doctor appointments; Connie breaking in her most recent computer; and a great deal of time with callers on the phone plus catching up on needed rest and relaxation. They are so very thankful for your prayers and support -- continue to uphold them!


John & Mel Bjorgen-Converge Worldwide, Belize
November 4-
Mel Bjorgen, with Converge Worldwide, in Belize, Central America, would like to involve their supporters in a Christmas Project for her Ladies Bible Study. She has gone through different studies in the past two years and would like to teach them about reading the Bible in context and cross-referencing. In order to accomplish this, good quality study Bibles are needed. Some ladies need large print Bibles because their eyes are failing. There are some available in a local store for $60 US each.

If she bought the Bibles in bulk from the U.S. the price would be doubled due to shipping and customs.

Mel's desire is to get funding for 30 Bibles by December 7th. She asks that you prayerfully consider sponsoring a Bible so that each lady can have their own for Christmas.

If you want to contribute towards some of these Bibles, please put a check in a marked church envelope with Belize Missions Projects Account (615105) in the Memo portion of the check. Our Treasurer will then send a collective check to Converge Worldwide for the Bibles. This will go separate from their monthly support.

Pray about this. Know that your contribution will help these ladies learn more about the Bible & Bible navigation. While we, for the most part, have numerous Bibles in our possession, these ladies have none.

Holiday Giving Guide
October 21, 2012-
Follow these guidelines to send Christmas greetings to your missionary:
<Cards and letters should be sent directly to the missionary's personal mailing address.
<Before sending a package outside the U.S., ask your missionary about customs r
egulations. Import fees make it very expensive to receive packages in foreign countries, and many time items are pilfered.
< Monetary gifts should be sent to the sending Board office (see your Church Directory).
<For tax-deductible gifts please make your check payable to the sending Board and indicate whose ministry your gift is for on a separate piece of paper. You will receive a tax-deductible receipt.
<For non-tax-deductible gifts, you may send a personal check, payable to the missionary. Please indicate that it is a personal Christmas gift. These gifts do not qualify for tax-deductible receipts.
<In order for the missionary to receive the monetary gift by Christmas, they should be into the sending Board by mid-December.
Gift guides from various mission agencies are available on the table in the Narthex. Wonderful gift ideas for someone who has everything, and is such a ministry world-wide to those who have nothing, i.e., food, polluted water, schooling.

John & Mel Bjorgen-Baptist General Conference, Belize
October 14-
Approaching Critical Mass, a praise from John Bjorgen, Belize, Central America. He says that over the past couple of months the men's outreach in Gales Point has been growing in every way imaginable. Twenty men-young and old gathered together to explore whether you can tell if a person is a Christian simply by their fruit. They prayed for each other and debated this topic for two hours. They have had struggles over the years to get even one or two men to willingly attend or participate in any meeting in the church, you will agree that this is nothing short of an act of God.

Many of these men seem to be lingering right on the edge of giving their hearts to Christ. Please bathe these men in prayer. And pray especially for the upcoming Men's Retreat Oct. 21-23rd. John and Mel ask that we pray that they, as well as the church leadership, will continue to be faithful and vocal witnesses and that they will not get in the way as the Holy Spirit does His work -- thanks!

Thank you from Carol Magnusson who is in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for a two-week Seminar on Counseling and Member Care. She is so appreciative of the prayers and support enabling her to go to this Seminar!

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission
October 7th
-Joe & Brenda Ziska with Greater Europe Mission, miss the vivid yellow and red leaves of the Maple and Oak trees, that grow here. Vienna, Austria, does not have the beauty that we enjoy in the fall. If you can take, or have pictures, of some Fall foliage, send them to joe_ziska@yahoo.com.

They have been busy in their fellowship with Bible studies, evangelistic outreaches in Klosterneuburg, and the beginning of the Evangelical Academy's year. They were particularly happy about one of their studies wanting to continue through the summer instead of taking a break. Joe is encouraging them to bring friends to the study which in on the book: The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism

The Women's breakfast was held October 6th. Pray for tthe follow-up for those who are interested in knowing the Lord, which will be on October 19th.

Joe and Brenda were privileged to spend their 42nd anniversary in a village in the Alps, just outside of Salzburg in Western Austria. Friends let them use their rustic chalet to rest and enjoy a time away from their responsibilities. It was a wonderful gift from God to spend time with Him and each other in such a beautiful place.

Joe visited his oncologist and has only a tiny increase in his PSA. Praise the Lord! They wish to thank you for your prayers. Joe is grateful to God for his health and the time he was able to spend in the Alps. Continue to uphold Joe, Brenda, David, & Daniel in your prayers.

Various Ministry Updates
September 30th-Howie and Jo-Ann Brant
with Serving In Mission in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Pray for all the necessary permits to get their Bible school buildings to go ahead with construction. Also as they instruct their students and the various speaking engagements they have.

Camas Meadows Bible Camp near Leavenworth/Cashmere with the wildfires. Pray the Lord will cover the Camp from the fires and uphold the health of those working up there.

Kids Alive International, a safe-haven for many children throughout the world. Pray for funds and help for this ministry.

Plateau Outreach Ministries is undergoing a big change in the office/food bank area, so has been closed for a number of weeks. The Ministry is working to be more effective to serve those on the Plateau

Rainier Hills Young Life, a ministry to the youth on the Plateau, can use prayer in upholding the leaders who meet with students every Monday. That the students will come to Christ and make a change in their own lives, and their acquaintances.

Shared Hope International helps young girls who have been sold into the sex trade. When taken out of this life they are helped to regain their self-esteem and become followers of Christ. Pray for this very difficult ministry.

Michael & Athena Kantartjis-One Challenge Mission, Athens, Greece
Sept. 23-
Keep Camas Meadows Bible Camp in your prayers regarding the wildfires over in the Cashmere area. A report came through that a fire is under control at the base of Inspiration Point. Camp folks are bulldozing around, cutting more undergrowth, and doing all they can should it flare up again. Pray for the safety and health of the camp staff.

News from Michael Kantartjis, with One Challenge Mission, in Athens, Greece, is always encouraging despite the discouraging circumstances. He says, “We praise God as the hours of fellowship become more and more meaningful. Peace of heart and mind are found in the secret times of close relationship with Him. The Lord, and only the Lord, can fill us with His presence. He is the Source of everything we need, to live a victorious and triumphant life.

We praise the Lord for our young people who love the Lord with all their hearts. From time to time, they meet in different homes for prayer. They pray for hours, praising and thanking Him for His grace and love. Our son John and our son-in-law Kyriakos are leading the meetings.

As you read in the newspapers and see on TV, Greece is in a very bad financial situation. People have lost their jobs and are suffering. Two and a half thousand have committed suicide. The Orthodox Church gives out food every noon. Please remember us. Our ministry is also hurt by this epidemic situation.”

David & Phyllis Enns-World Team, RBMU International
Sept. 16-
David and Phyllis Enns, are in Singapore with World Team-RBMU Intl. August was Missions Month at their church, Bethesda Pasir Ris Mission Church in Singapore. An exciting development for them was when one of their team members to China asked to meet with them to talk about the possibility of long term ministry in missions. A few others may be moving in that direction -- very encouraging. Pray that God will guide these servants of His.

Their Church is gearing up for a full short-term missions program in December. One team to Batam, Indonesia; 3 teams to Myanmar, 1 team to Thailand. David and Phyllis will be in Indonesia from Dec. 16-23rd. They plan to run two camps for Indonesian youth. Pray for the Lord to prepare their hearts and the hearts of their Indonesia friends. Pray also for a deep work of His Spirit in moving them to live in line with the truth of the gospel.

David and Phyllis have three daughters: Andrea and Jason and boys are settling in Manila and really enjoying the challenge. Carissa and Leigh and family are into the new school year. They have started a Kid's Club which has also drawn youth and adults into crafts and Bible memory. Maria is starting her last year of nursing school.

A prayer of the Enns is that they (and we) would be verbal witnesses to the gospel. We want to love people with the love of Jesus through our lives, but we need courage to witness for Him as well.

Carol Magnusson-Wycliffe Bible Translators
September 2-
Carol Magnusson with Wycliffe Bible Translators, currently at home on leave, is traveling to the area of North & South Carolina on September 8th to train others in methods of Language Survey. Se will then head to Thailand for training in a new Human Resources position for Wycliffe when she returns to Nigeria in March, 2013. She should be returning to Enumclaw by the end of October.

Please pray that God will meet the financial needs for Carol’s trip to Thailand. Pray for her health, as stress has been a factor in her energy level lately. Pray that she can find some time for rest in the midst of a busy schedule. Pray for her as she assists in giving the presentations; for safety as she travels on the East coast; safety in Thailand and that the Lord will bless and prepare her for the work He wants done.

Howie & Jo-Ann Brant-Serving in Mission
August 19-
Howie and Jo-Ann Brant with Serving In Mission (SIM) returned to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia recently after a month Stateside. Their son, Judson and his family were able to visit with gramma Brant in British Columbia, in her 90's. They were blessed with a bump to business class for their 14-hr. flight over the North Pole.

Back in the Gurage area they finally chose a contractor to build a number of large buildings which will take about 8 months as everything is done by hand -- even carrying cement up a ramp to dump into all the forms. Two prayer requests: 1) their building permit will come through, and 2) that all the documents which have been sent will be accepted.

Their Acts Commentary is in the works. They expect to sign a contract with a publisher in a few weeks. The English version "Courageous Witness in a Hostile World" should be out in a few months.

Valen & Carol Straley-InterAct Ministries
August. 12-
Valen and Carol Straley with InterAct Ministries are ministering in Kamloops, British Columbia. They had a wonderful Spring traveling up and down the West coast visiting friends and family. They put a lot of miles on their van but being with loved ones was worth it. They visited eight churches in seven weeks and express their thanks for the hospitality and gifts they received.

The Grenada Berean Church sent a 14-member team to minister to their people and present a Vacation Bible School. At the most there were 27 children, a couple of toddlers and some of the youth who participated in singing, song motions, stories, games, and crafts. This team served without complaint through rain, heat, and thunder! And they plan on returning next year; please pray with them that it will happen.

The Straleys asked for prayer for the relationships in the church. So many are messy and need God's wisdom to a Scriptural solution. The church is beginning to outgrow the room they meet in but there isn't another room that will work; they are thankful for the problem.

Again they reiterate the good time on their visit "home." Continue to pray for their very difficult ministry

Camas Meadows Bible Camp
August 5-
Camas Meadows Bible Camp, above Leavenworth and Cashmere, continues with Summer Camps for students. Prayer requests come in often for each camp or group that uses the facility. Prayers are for protection while playing, horseback riding, or spending the day at Lake Chelan; for the Holy Spirit to move in their hearts during their various activities as well as during times of hearing and listening to God's Word through various speakers; time around the campfire when they can really let a lot of their frustrations and joys be spoken and shared with others. The strongest prayer need is when they return home from "their mountain top experience" and face the realities in their lives. Quite often there isn't any family support, and Satan has a grand time with their new found faith in Christ, determined for them to flounder. The staff and camp directors always sense this struggle, along with the kitchen cooks, nurse, bus driver, and other staff. Uphold Camas and all Christian camps in prayer.

Prayer does not fit us for the greater works; prayer IS the greater work. -Oswald Chambers

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission
July 22nd-
Joe and Brenda Ziska, with Greater Europe Mission, in Vienna, Austria, send an encouraging letter about church, family, co-workers, and "hare." The Klosterneuburg church provisional leadership team met and decided to begin services every Sunday starting in 2013 -- Praise the Lord! Pray that God will show them what a biblical church should look like to effectively reach those in Klosterneuburg.

The women are continuing to follow-up on the ladies that came to learn more about God being in their lives. The work is serious as one woman said she was meeting with a cult group the next week. Pray for the follow-up sessions that the Holy Spirit would work in these ladies lives.

Pray for the Hatchers: Gregory, Kimberly, and baby Nathaniel who have received their Austrian residence visas. They are officially a part of the Austrian team and are finally "at home" in Austria.

Such exciting news for the Ziskas: Their eldest son David (who just turned 28) was never given up for adoption by his parents and has remained a foster child since he was a baby. Now he is old enough to legally say he would like to be adopted. Please pray that the process would go through smoothly.

And the "hare" part is that the Ziskas have two new baby girls: Ms T (Misty) and Snowy -- adorable little rabbits who have joined Mr. Sir Charles Mocha Ziska, long-time family household pet.

Finally, they had a Children's Flea Market where their Church had a booth and an opportunity to talk to children. Brenda said on September 15th they will be having another one. They suggested offerings to purchase small Christian booklets that can be given away; Christian books for babies to 4th grade; and cassettes and CD's that they would sell cheaply. Pray about your financial involvement in this outreach.

Various Ministry Updates
July 15-
Thank you to those of you who filled the SOAR Hygiene Kits for the Children's Day Camps in Russia -- what a blessing that will be...sixty kits were delivered! Pray for those children, that the Holy Spirit will have them yield their lives to the Lord. Pray also for the counselors and leaders involved. Pray for strength, especially when they go back to their homes or to the orphanages, pray that they will be encouraged to live their lives for Christ.

Pray for all the students who attended the YoungLife Malibu Camp, especially for those in our Enumclaw area who made commitments to Christ. Pray for encouragement as they have returned to homes that may be shattered or not inclined to uphold their child's newfound faith in Him. Uphold the leaders as they have been consistent in meeting with them and always available and supportive.

Pray for the students who have been, are presently, and will soon be attending Camas Meadows Bible Camps. Pray for their safety, interactive skills, play times (they go to Lake Chelan every Wednesday), and their interpersonal relationships at Camp. Pray also for their return home, probably to families who have no spiritual strength in their lives.

Rainier Hills YoungLife
July 8-
Rainier Hills YoungLife will be having a garage sale, July 26, 27, 28, at their office on 737 Griffin . Items NOT-ACCEPTABLE: Computers, Monitors, Console TVs, Cabinet stereos, Exercise equipment (unless pre-approved), Tires, Skiis/Boots, Refrigerators/freezers (unless pre-approved), Washer/dryers (unless pre-approved), Car seats, Cribs, Suitcases. ACCEPTABLE ITEMS: Clothing/shoes, Baskets, Household goods, Books, Yard items, Toys, Baby items (except those listed above), Tools, Furniture in good condition, DVDs/VHS/Albums/Cassettes, Stuffed animals, Purses/hats/belts, etc.
Should you have something that is not on this list and want to ask, contact Sheri at younglife@tx3.net. Have the items at the office on July 25th. Thank you!

Various Ministry Updates
July 1-
Please keep YoungLife Camp in prayer through July 3rd. Adam and Amy Ihde left at 3:15 a.m. Wed., the 27th, to go with the group from this area to Malibu up in Canada. They minister to teens and are praising the Lord for the funds, students, and leaders who are attending this year. Prayer is requested for students to become leaders in their groups, and for those not saved, to come to the Lord at this time. Also pray that the Holy Spirit would work mightily in their lives and they will have an impact on their respective communities when they return.
Richard Smith of Cross Resources, is now back at his home in Florida with Connie. God has made provisions for help in the Prayer Resolution sessions in CA for people to take over, and they are so very thankful for the finances, cards, e-mails people have sent at this time.
Uphold Valen and Carol Straley with InterAct Ministries in Kamloops, British Columbia, in prayer as they struggle with in-fighting in the church and "things are a mess." Their ministry is with the Natives and the darkness is deep in their culture. A praise is that 8 students went to a Youth gathering and accepted Christ as their Saviour. Our prayer for them is that they can overcome this darkness (we know that they will be attacked) and be a real testimony to their community. And pray for the Straleys as they minister to these new Christians

Howie & JoAnn Brant-Serving in Mission
June 24-
JoAnn Brant, with Serving in Mission (SIM), currently serving in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and to the Gurage people, will be in Enumclaw on Saturday, July 14th. She will be at the Emerald Court community room at 2 pm sharing some Scripture and PowerPoint photos of their year in Ethiopia, about the Bible School they started, the students, and about pastor's wives being sent gently used ladies items to help their pastor-husbands make ends meet.

If you are saying, “oh yes, I have jewelry items that I could bring”, please see the sheet in the Narthex as soon as possible, so that they will be available when JoAnn comes. Put any jewelry items in little snack or sandwich bag; doilies, small table cloths, scarves. They all will be much-appreciated by these pastor's wives who are operating a business: one is a hair salon; the other is a coffee shop (Ethiopian coffee IS the best). And the shops are side-by-side.

Howie's Mother lives in Vancouver, BC, and is in her 90's, so while they are here, they want to make a trip to visit her. Pray for save travel for the Brant’s!

Michael and Athena Kantartjis-One Challenge
June 17-
Michael and Athena Kantartjis, our long-time missionaries with One Challenge (OC International), are in Athens, Greece. In the midst of very trying circumstances in Greece, Michael continues to rejoice and praise the Lord because He is always with us. He says that with His love and power He moves the powers, the obstacles, and the mountains that are working against us. So, in everything we must always be thankful.

Athena enthusiastically witnesses everywhere she goes. People are drawn to her who have never met her before and she can talk to them about Jesus.

For 35 years Michael has put out a newspaper. People anxiously wait for the newspaper and he writes eight articles: missionary news; the main one is an evangelistic message; for the family; for contemporary problems, for the power of God and the Holy Spirit; true stories about people who have been blessed; answers to prayers, and the present very bad financial situation that exists in Greece right now, calling people to repentance.

Pray for the people as well as the OC ministry in Greece.

Various Ministry Updates
June10-
< Uphold Richard and Connie Smith with Cross Resources (Prayer Resolution) as Richard recovers from problems after prostate surgery on May 8th. He is at home in Florida and Connie went to Biola University in California, to give a Prayer Resolution Training class. This is usually done by both of them, so pray for strength for her to give the presentations.

<A letter from Joe and Brenda Ziska, with Greater Europe Mission in Vienna, Austria, rejoices in that 200 women attended the Breakfast in April and 12 came to the follow-up time -- praise the Lord for them, and pray that the Holy Spirit will work mightily in their hearts. Also Joe's PSA is low which is good; continue to uphold them in prayer as there are miracles happening in their ministry.

<Jim Edgell, who pastors at Wiskah Church (out of Hoquiam), is returning to his former church in Denton, MT. You will recall that when he left Denton, shortly afterwards there were 4 young teens killed in a car crash and he returned to do their services. Again, two teens were also killed recently and Jim has been asked to return to do their services. Pray for them as they travel and minister to these grieving families. Jim is the son of John Edgell who was our pastor for a number of years in the late 80's/early 90's.

Vladimir and Nadia Savich-Slavic Gospel Association
June 3rd-
Vladimir and Nadia Savich with Slavic Gospel Association, in the Urkaine, send their greetings to you as joint participants in their ministry. They are so appreciative of prayer and financial support and ask for God's richest blessings upon you and for Him to reward you hundredfold!

They had a harvest celebration last Fall and also had a spiritual harvest of 10 children who came to know Christ as their Savior! There were 60 children at Camp, and some lived 6 kilometers from where camp was held, walking that distance each day. Pray for those children to continue to grow in His love.

Calvary Church came to help them with the church building. They have been praying and fasting about joining with another Church, asking for God's guidance.

Vladimir's son is also a pastor and they started conducting special training for brothers to prepare them to be pastors. This started at the beginning of 2012 and the training will last 3 years. They already have 30 students and all the teachers required. Pray for them.

Pray for Nadia as she needs treatment but they have no funds for her care; pray for Vladimir for physical health to continue to minister for His glory.

Howie & Jo-Ann Brant-Serving in Mission
May 27th-
News from Howie and Jo-Ann Brant, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is so encouraging as they tell of one of their Gurage Bible School students, Pastor Subsibe, in Indiber.

Subsibe was one of out two men chosen to attend school with a 10th grade education, married, and a daughter. The little church in Subside's area pays for his dorm fees ($42) but not his transportation back and forth -- five dollars round trip by bus from Agena to Indiber; not much to us but half a month's cash for a farming family.

Subsibe walks to school every week -- 25 miles. On weekends does all the house chores for a week i.e., cuts wood, shops for necessities; preaches Sunday mornings to the Agena congregation and in the afternoon has youth and women's meetings. Then early Monday before dawn he sets out for school arriving about 10:30, hot and sweaty but with still enough energy to attend class and participate.

After studying about angels, Howie asked Subsibe if he ever sensed any guardian angels along the way. "Yes, along the way there are many rivers, hills, and rough places but I have been able to walk this every week with no tiredness and no harm. Yes, I know there are angels watching over me."

Check out the Gurage Celebration slide show on Youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FRKanb4v3E&feature=youtu.be

Bob & Katherine Rodgers-Northwest Independent Church Extension
May 20-
Bob and Katherine Rodgers, Director of Northwest Independent Church Extension, in Sumner, WA. They live in Orting & just found out that their new neighbor is the son of Katherine's cousin -- small world isn't it! Their family is busy, moving, growing: Andrew is finishing up courses of the UW this year with one more quarter in the Fall, then graduation. He is looking at job opportunities now. Rob & his family are in Arizona (they are thankful for a son-in-law who works for the airlines); Sarah Joy and her family are involved in Faith Bible Church (South Hill); Matthew and Elizabeth moving to Denver, CO; each growing in their way and moving on with their lives.

Bob and Katherine ask for prayers that God will raise up more leaders; church planters; and pastors to serve with NICE to reach out, not only this generation but the next generation in the Northwest; wisdom and discernment in implementing our (NICE) vision, purpose and goals. The NW continues to be one of the most un-churched places in the United States. Pray that lives will be changed as the Gospel goes forth throughout the NW.

Various Missionary Updates
May 13th-
Congratulations are in order for John and Mel Bjorgen, our missionaries in Belize, Central America, on the arrival of Malachi Daniel. He was born Friday, May 4th; weighed in at 6 lbs. 6 oz., 21 inches long, and is still in the hospital as he was born with pneumonia. There report as of Tues (8th) stated they were going to take him off the ventilator but as of this writing we have not heard how it is going for this little one. PRAY that he recovers and that he is a healthy little tyke. This birth was a C-section so Mel is still very much recovering, and not able to be with her two daughters, Evangeline and Ellis. One of the Moms was going to be with them at this time, so that helps.

Richard Smith of Cross Resources, Inc., (Prayer Resolution Counseling), had prostate surgery Tuesday. In two weeks, they will be traveling to Biola University in California, for a month-long Prayer Resolution Training. PRAY for Richard and Connie as they prepare, and that Richard has a good healing time.

Uphold Valen and Carol Straley with InterAct Ministries, in Kamloops, British Columbia, as they continue traveling before returning home in a couple of weeks. Remember Valen's message from Matthew 16:18 ". . .I will build my church. . .". They minister in a very dark area; prayers can defeat this darkness and bring Light to these dear people in Kamloops.

Valen & Carol Straley-InterAct Ministries
May 6-
We welcome Valen and Carol Straley today. They are with InterAct Ministries and are located at Kamloops, British Columbia. Previously they were at North Battleford, Saskatchewan. Beginning very slowly but currently picking up speed those in the area are coming to Services, gatherings they have, with the Lord working in their hearts. Some are reaching out to others; the Holy Spirit is working in a spiritually dark area.

Uphold Valen and Carol as they continue to minister; pray for their family, daughter Amy who has three children; and son, David and his wife.

Valen and Carol are both from Hillside Community Church way back, and we are so blessed to have you with us today.

Howard & Jo-Ann Brant-SIM, Richard & Connie Smith- Cross Resources
April 29-
A short news brief from Howie and Jo-Ann Brant, with SIM in Ethiopia, report that churches in the Gurage area have embarked on an evangelistic campaign. Hundreds of teams going out two by two witnessing to over 21,000 people and 482 have professed Christ as their Savior -- many of which were Muslims.

Believers have become emboldened to share their faith. Unbelieving communities have seen the power of their faith and are no longer critical and apt of try and persecute them. The Light of the Gospel is penetrating deep into the darkness - Praise the Lord!

Pray for these new believers as we know this is the hard time; pray they remain true to their Lord and Savior!

Be in prayer for Richard Smith with Prayer Resolution along with his wife, Connie. Recent tests show that his myeloma cancer is back; he now also has prostate cancer with a cancerous tumor on one side of the prostate gland, and both of these cancers are in Stage 3. With all their traveling, moving, remodeling their home, he hasn't followed the Diet as before. He chose no treatment. They are to be giving a 4-week training on Prayer Resolution at Biola University during the month of June. God has answered the prayers of those involved in having them come for 7 years, and they know God will be glorified in this whole situation. Your prayers are much needed for all this to happen.

John & Mel Bjorgen-Baptist General Conference, Belize
April 22nd-
Time is closing in on the anticipated birth of Baby Boy Bjorgen, on May 4th. John and Mel in Belize, Central America, have had a busy month with the Belize Mission booked solid with teams this past month. They put on a couple of VBS programs and the teams did great jobs in ministering, constructing, painting, and just being flexible.

They also had the opportunity to host a team in the village. Two former missionaries to Gales Point Village were also a part of this team. They gave the church a "facelift" and took the whole Ladies Bible Study to Caye Caulker for a retreat where they prayed, cried, talked, sang, talked about spiritual gifts, fellowshipped with the Lord and even had pedicures -- what a special time!

Their discipleship program is going well, seeing growth and understanding, and being challenged by the Lord. Pray for the discipleship program.

May 4th is when the baby is scheduled to arrive by C-section. She is excited that her Mom and John are able to be with her in the operating room; the doctors have been very accommodating in allowing family when the baby is born. And he will be born on her Mother's birthday! Uphold Mel as she continues in her pregnancy and that all goes well.

Various Youth Summer Camps
April 15-
Summer time is coming upon us and with that a full camping season for students. Kasten Brown (grandson of Richard and Connie Smith, son of Theresa) is going to Yei, South Sudan, with Teen Missions from June 9 - July 28th. They will be constructing housing to minister to refugees and orphans in the area. They will live in tents and bathe and do their laundry in buckets -- quite different from home! He is still in need of funds for his trip. Should the Holy Spirit move you to assist him, make out a check to Teen Missions and send to Kasten Brown, 4513 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85282. Pray for Kasten that he can get his support, and for his safety in South Sudan.

Another area of support needed is for those going to Young Life camp. Any funds sent presently will be matched, so doubles the amount. We have the Rainier Hills Young Life at 737 Griffin Ave. (green house across from Oshio's and Mail Express). Adam and Amy Ihde can also tell you more of the summer camp outreach. Pray for the students and leaders.

Camas Meadows Bible Camp (above Cashmere and Leavenworth) has camps available to students throughout the Summer. A lovely mountain setting with a trip to Lake Chelan, horseback riding, huge slip 'n slide...very Christ-centered. If you are interested, go to www.camasmeadows.org. Students are upheld each week by a huge Prayer Chain.

Camas Meadows Bible Camp-Women's Retreat
April 8-
The Annual Camas Meadows Women's Retreat is coming up May 18-20-- a wonderful time of meeting women from all over the State, a time of being in God's Word, uplifting music, fun, fellowship, food, free time -- all in a very rustic mountain setting above Leavenworth and Cashmere in Eastern Washington.
Registration can be made ahead of time with Kate Percival or at camp when the retreat starts. Camp begins at 5 p.m. on Friday and goes through noon on Sunday. Cost is $97 for the entire weekend or if you want to come on Saturday, the cost is $55. Brochures are in the Narthex, but should you need more information, contact Joyce Magnusson.
The Speaker this year is Patti Johnson, a veteran Sunday School and also a BSF teacher. She will be speaking on the subject The Attitude of the Beatitudes.

Joe & Brenda Ziska, Greater Europe Mission
April 1st-
A Happy Easter greeting from Joe and Brenda Ziska, with Greater Europe Mission, in Vienna, Austria, to all of you. They have been very busy since returning to Vienna on New Year's Eve. Jonathan, their co-worker had health problems so the timing was perfect for Joe to take over then. Jonathan is now able to come back to work and they ask for prayer for his full recovery (liver-related problems).

The Klosterneuberg fellowship will be discussing the next steps to form a church, official leadership, having services every Sunday -- praise God for this next step of church planting in this area; also praise for an increasing number of people that are visiting the worship services on Sunday night -- His Word is spreading!

April 14th will be the date for the Klosterneuburg women's breakfast -- an outreach to all women. They will hear the Word of God spoken and we can pray that the Holy Spirit will move in their hearts. Brenda and Raphaela (Jonathan's wife) will be inviting those interested in a follow-up time to consider His love for them.

A new family will be joining the GEM team in Austria. They are presently getting the remainder of their support and should be arriving April 24th. Pray that their residency permits will be granted; as they continue language study; and as they begin to look for an apartment. The Ziskas are very excited about the arrival of Gregory, Kim, and baby Nathanael.

Various Ministry Updates
Mar. 25th-
<Howie and Jo-Ann Brant with Serving In Mission (SIM) are living in, and working out of, Gurage at this time. The lights are often off, they went five days without water; both have had bouts of diarrhea, and the fleas are active so they've been scratching. In spite of those problems the Lord is working. Over the past month the Gurage Church has mobilized its members to evangelize. About 180 people have gone out 2x2; personally spoken to 9,700 people, and 159 people made profession of salvation -- celebrating abounds. The Holy Spirit is working mightily -- praise the Lord!

<Valen and Carol Straley with InterAct Ministries, in Kamloops, B.C., are on furlough and will be speaking at Hillside on May 6th. Their fellowship is exploding with congregants and children; we look forward to the wonderful things of the Lord as they speak to us. Valen and Carol grew up in Hillside.

<Read about Mel Bjorgen's trip to the doctor on the back of your Ephesians Study Notes.

<Carol Magnusson of Wycliffe Bible Translators in Jos, Nigeria, writes that now no traffic is allowed near churches, so the traffic is more chaotic. People have to park quite a distance to attend. Pray for those who terrorize the Christians that they may come to know Christ as their Savior.

Far East Broadcasting Co
March 18th
-Far East Broadcasting Company (FEBC) reaches many people through their radio ministry. They have small radios that can receive spiritual messages in the darkest corners of earth -- and that dark is, spiritual! Obviously blaring radios would be ideal to spread His Word, but they must do this in the darkness of woods, ever so quiet so as to not arouse suspicion. How blessed we are to praise God in the Tacoma Dome, Showare Center, Key Arena, and in our church buildings.

Here are five areas to pray for those who must worship in secret:

1. The physical, spiritual, and emotional protection for believers in prison, and for perseverance for those under surveillance.
2. The strong fellowship of believers despite government restrictions or the absence of church buildings.
3. Spiritual and emotional strength for Christians under pressure to renounce their faith.
4. The safety of pastors, church leaders, missionaries, Gospel workers, and their children at risk.
5. Christian radio and internet broadcasts to encourage believers and to help seekers find Christ.

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10

Prison Fellowship
March 11
-An e-mail from Franklin Graham of Samaritan's Purse asked for prayer for an Iranian pastor, Yousef Nadarkhani, who has been sentenced to death by an Iranian court for converting from Islam to Christianity. He is guilty of apostasy under Islamic law. Christians like Yousef are being persecuted for their faith all over the world. We have prayed for Christians in prison in China and they have been released. Pray for Yousef that he may further glorify the Lord.

Jim Liske, CEO of Prison Fellowship Ministries, had visited Comayagua, Honduras. While driving past its cruel-looking prison, he urged churches to reach out to those languishing inside. So when he saw images of the devastating fire on Feb. 14 that killed over 350 prisoners, he was horrified. Many of the prisoners were still waiting to be tried or even charged.

He urged his pastor-friends to reach out and provide basic necessities, and the love of Jesus. He also was able to offer the help of Prison Fellowship International to connect with the churches and his pastor-friends and poured out Christ's love to the survivors, families, and prison guards.

Most of the families are very poor and have no supplies and nowhere to stay. Prison Fellowship is delivering blankets, soap, toilet paper, and diapers, and general support for these families. Honduras is the second poorest country in Central America.

Pray for these families, survivors, and Prison Fellowship workers and the churches in Honduras. May Christ be glorified.

*Our Operation Shoebox is a ministry of Prison Fellowship.

Various Missionary Prayer Needs
February 26-
A season of prayer for:
*Joe Ziska with Greater Europe Mission in Vienna, Austria, in his battle with cancer. His PSA had gone down when he arrived back in Vienna in January. Continue to uphold Joe, and Brenda, in much prayer.

*Howie and Jo-Ann Brant with Serving In Mission in Addis Ababa/Gurague area, Ethiopia, as they seeks funds for the student housing/buildings of the Bible School that has been started.

*David and Judy Baker with Camas Meadows Bible Camp, Cashmere, WA, as Dave recovers from his second brain surgery on Feb. 21. Their desire is only to glorify Christ through this challenge in their lives.

*Richard and Connie Smith with Cross Resources, Inc., as they are in Thailand for the first time with their Prayer Resolution Counseling.

*Carol Magnusson with Wycliffe Bible Translators in Jos, Nigeria, as she and others deal with lack of electricity which in turn leaves them without water. Water has to be carried from a well for their needs. And when the pumps work, the cost of fuel has gone way up again. Pray as she and Robyn co-chair the Nigeria Group Spiritual Retreat in mid-April (about 90 adults and 20 children).

*The economic crises in Athens, Greece, affects our missionary and his family, Michael and Athena Kantartjis with OC, Intl.

*For relief of the intense winter weather in Europe and Eastern Europe and our missionary Vladimir and Nadia Savich, with Slavic Gospel Mission, in the Ukrane, and their fellow believers.

The missionaries desperately need your prayers for their ministry to be effective for Christ -- "pray without ceasing."

John & Mel Bjorgen-Baptist General Conference, Belize
February 19-
John and Mel Bjorgen in Belize, Central America, with daughter Evangeline and Ellis and baby boy coming in May, are looking at the end of their term. Don't know if they will continue in Belize, or what God has planned for them for the coming years. But Mel asked for prayer for 4 women and 4 men, some are solid believers, others non- or baby-believers.
Una, wife of Pastor Kenny desiring to grow in the Lord and stand strong in her faith. Pray for her as she is one of the most scrutinized and criticized women in the village; for her husband, Kenny, meeting with John to sharpen each other as iron sharpens iron. A good opportunity for John to learn more Belizean Kriol.
Amanda, wife of Assoc. Pastor Shannon, desires to grow in her walk with the Lord. She is 18 and a new mother; Shannon that he will be focused on studying doctrine and working on organizing and preparing lessons and teaching.
Shelly, who came to the Lord but has slipped away from church and Bible Study. She desires the walk but doesn't know how and Mel wants to come alongside her and give direction. This is also the need for Nadine.
Robert is not a Christian yet (he is the "common law" husband of Nadine. John has developed a connection with him and thinks he is seeking more and curious about Christianity. Pray that the Holy Spirit will draw him.
Jay and his wife, Myrtle, recently moved to the village, coming to the outreaches and services. He asked to meet with him to study the Bible.
Our prayers will not go unanswered when, from a pure heart, we come to Him for the encouragement, wisdom, and salvation of those listed above.

Shared Hope International
Feb. 12th-
Highlights of what you helped to accomplish in 2011 through Shared Hope: Our three U.S. partners were extremely busy in the work of rescue and restoration. The statistics are impressive. They:
~ made contact with 2,278 potential trafficking victims throughout- reaching them both on foot and by phone
~ received hotline calls from 427 women and girls
~ had interaction with 607 contacts
~ provided follow-up services to 243 individuals
~provided long-term shelter to 10, short-term shelter to 33
Plus, leaders of all three of these organizations have been recognized as experts on the issue of sex trafficking and have been invited by the U.S. Congress to testify at hearings.

Internationally:
~ shelter, support, and education to 180 women and children
~training in 135 job-related skills
~providing loving care to HIV-infected members of their communities
~sent outreach teams daily into brothel areas to offer hope and freedom to those in bondage

Pray for those who work hard in rescuing those young girls who are kidnapped and put in sexual bondage.

David & Phyllis Enns-World Team, Singapore
Feb. 5th-
“Pray that our love will abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that we might be able to discern what is best and be pure and blameless until He comes.” David and Phyllis Enns of World Team in Singapore asked that we pray for them to that end in the year 2012. Sounds like a good prayer for all of us!

They had a busy few months: August was Mission's Month with the theme "God's Heart for Missions: What is my role?" They ran two sessions of a World Mission Course there in Singapore. David's dream to see 80 people come was realized and there was much joy seeing how God raised up an eager and capable Facilitation team who have His passion!.

David and Phyllis said to Hillside, "God bless you for your faithful support over all these years. May He bless you in a wonderful way in 2012. Thank you for partnering with us."

Prayer requests: A camp for 70 Indonesian youth was held with good participation between the youth and Bible School students. Pray that the children that made a decision for Christ will follow through and really love Jesus.

Pray for their family: Maria, in her third year of the nursing program of University of Manitoba was with them at Christmas. Leigh and Carissa and family are settling into life in Papua. Jason and Andrea and their boys are juggling work, deputation and life in Three Hills, Lord willing, leaving for Faith Academy (Philippines) in March, 2012. Pray for David's brother, Lauren, who has been battling prostate cancer; his attitude and trust in the Lord have been a comfort to David. They would love to see him healed and want God to be glorified in all things.

For those of you who don't know of the Enns, Phyllis grew up in Hillside Church, as did her brother, Valen Straley, a missionary in Kamloops, British Columbia.

Howie & Jo-Ann Brant-Serving in Mission
January 22-
Howie and Jo-Ann Brant with Serving In Mission, are in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, presently. They report that builders from the Seattle area are there to help build desks, and bunk beds for the Gurage Bible School students. The church has the school's property title deed, the architect finished his work, and they should be having a ground-breaking soon. The students are living in temporary quarters. They see miracles happening with the funding of the school and praise the Lord for those involved.

The Brants are finishing up a two week teaching of the Book of Acts at an Ethiopian Missionary Training School. The commentary on Acts they have written will be in print soon, and they pray that eventually it will be in the hands of Ethiopians, Indians, and Chinese.

Pray as they work on the school building progresses, for the continued intense interest of the students, and most of all that Christ will be glorified through each and every student.

Camas Meadows Bible Camp
January 8-
The Year 2011 was an excellent year for Camas Meadows Bible Camp located in the mountains above Leavenworth and Cashmere, WA. Daryl Wilkes, Director, says "Just as we are called to examine ourselves individually, so should an organization--especially one that wants to be an expression of the Body of Christ. Over the last couple of years the Board has been very intentional about reviewing our mission, policies and budget to ensure that we are true to our purpose and good stewards of the resources we've been given. We strive to honor God in all we do and cover every decision and work of the Camp with prayer."

Many improvement were accomplished but the heart of the ministry is examined also. Testimonies coming from campers, staff, and parents assure them that the Lord's transforming love is actively working at Camas Meadows. Children seeing a counselor months after attending camp, yet the counselor remembers his name; former counselor applying what she learned to her current work in Africa.

Daryl says "The Kingdom of God continues to grow as we love, serve, and sow the Word of God. And we at Camas Meadows Bible Camp are honored and humbled to be a small part of that mighty Kingdom".

Richard & Connie Smith-Cross Resources, Inc.
Jan. 1-
Richard and Connie Smith with Cross Resources, Inc., deals with Prayer Resolution Counseling. They express their thanks for your prayers and gifts. And they are taking their ministry to Thailand, a first for them in Asia and a new learning experience for them. When they go into a new culture they watch every one and all aspects of how people deal with each other i.e., shaking hands, crossing arms, crossing legs -- simple things we don't give a thought to but in that culture may be very offensive precluding any ability to effectively minister.

Their daughter, Teresa, has been helping them handle the finances and sending books and materials when people order them. She has been in and out of work for the past two-three years but recently received word that her workload will be increased to the point where she can handle her personal needs, including health insurance (she is a single Mom with 3 children). Richard and Connie ask for prayer for Teresa dealing with family issues.

Uphold Richard as he deals with his cancer; always in need of financial resources; and health as they go to Asia.

John & Mel Bjorgen-Baptist General Conference, Belize
Dec. 25-
Mel Bjorgen's grandfather died from falling off a ladder while cutting a tree. Mel and John are in Belize, Central America.. He landed on his face and died of a brain bleed. Pray for Mel, her Mother, and family in this tragic loss of her dear Grandpa. He loved the Lord and we know there is much comfort knowing that.

God intervened greatly on their trip to Florida. They were 23rd, 24th and 25th on the stand-by list, then down to 10 and got the last three seats. A lady gave up her place so Mel could sit with their 2 girls and John was at the back of the plane. A man from their Mission picked them up and took them to the family place.

The funeral service was held Saturday; pray for the family as they deal with their loss.

David and Phyllis Enns send their greetings to all for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

There are some cards from Missionaries/Organizations on the Mission Board; more will be added as they come.

Howie & Jo Ann Brant-Serving in Mission & Radio Ministries
Dec. 18-
We can never under estimate the power of the radio in ministry in remote lands. Howie Brant with SIM (serving in Mission) in Ethiopia, East Africa, tells of a man who came up to the pulpit of US radio-based donors. He looked intently at the crowd and with tears he said, "Thank you, thank you, thank you!"

Radios are an excellent gift for ministries like theirs & others. Far East Broadcasting Co. and The Voice of Martyrs are just a couple that would benefit from this type of gift--With Voice of Martyrs a pilot drops bags of Bibles & radios into the guerilla areas in Columbia; there are even Bible study groups among the guerillas--Praise the Lord! In Alaska, Voice of Alaska has towers in remote far north & northwestern areas that transmit the Gospel message where groups gather cherishing every Word of God coming through radios!

Howie & Jo Ann just returned to Ethiopia from the U.K. where he had surgery on his prostate. Their children:  Lisa & Lance are getting ready to return to Jordan; Krista is enjoying her Bible teaching to 50 women in Germany; Judson & family are now in Germany (he is out of Afghanistan now). A picture of the 23 students enrolled in the Gurage Bible School is on the Missionary Board; property is purchased, funding coming in, the Lord is blessing!

Carol Magnusson-Wycliffe Bible Translators
Dec. 11-
Carol Magnusson, with Wycliffe Bible Translators, in Jos, Nigeria, was on a 2 1/2 week Survey. They left November 9th and returned December 2nd -- MUCH longer than they expected. The location was only an hour from Jos, but also an hour trek (backpacking) to the village. Within a short time of arriving in the village a great number of people surrounded them. They were happily surprised and left the village the next morning. The Team returned again on Monday and a person from the village told her that they needed to move to another area. When Carol asked what was going on, she was told that the villagers play music and it will be very loud. They went ahead and moved to a different location but not before they heard just how loud the music was! Carol thought it strange the music wasn't playing Friday night when they first arrived, but it was because the generator was broke down -- Praise the Lord. Had the generator been going, they would not have been able to conduct the work but God knew and prepared the village for their arrival. She said they will go back to the same Survey in a week or two and finish -- not quite done! Isn't God amazing at the things He does preparing the way before others?

She thanked you all greatly for your prayers -- first time she wasn't sick at some point on a Survey! Pray for the Team as they go again in a couple of weeks to finish the Survey.

**FYI: Should you be concerned about how a charity you give to uses funds, check on charitynavigator.org

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission
December 4
-We are blessed today to have with us, Joe and Brenda Ziska, and son, Daniel, from Vienna, Austria, with GEM (Greater Europe Mission). They have been Stateside since mid-year and will be returning home December 30th, to be with both their sons, David and Daniel, and Sir Charles Mocha Ziska (The family bunny rabbit). God has been so gracious and awesome with Joe's cancer treatments -- gamma knife radiation and chemo treatments, one here in Seattle. They can tell you all about it!

Their ministry in Vienna has flourished through the many years they have been there: Bible school; daughter-churches; women's outreach; children's outreach; leaders developed to take the lead in churches and youth ministry -- here's Joe and Brenda to share what God is doing in their lives and Austrian lives!

Angel Tree-A ministry of Prison Fellowship
Nov. 20-
Angel Tree, a ministry of Prison Fellowship, was started many years ago by Chuck Colson of Watergate fame. He saw the need for Christ in the prisons, and was introduced to Prison Fellowship through a mother who was incarcerated. This lady would hoard sample soaps, and other toiletries to give to her children -- she needed to give a gift to them. God revealed a need, and Angel Tree was born.

Now prisoners fill out an application they get from the Chaplain in their correction center, and the names are distributed all around the country to churches willing to minister to children of prisoners. The gifts are purchased, wrapped, and delivered to Hillside Community Church by you. You are asked to pay not more than $20 for the gift, but everyone can certainly do what they would like.

Each guardian is called to find out what the child(ren) would want, sizes, colors, etc., so we try to be as specific as possible. Often times it is the one who purchases the gift that gets very excited and blessed by giving to these Angels.

There is a tree loaded with Angels in the Narthex. Take a look to see who you would like to buy a gift for, then write your name and phone number on the tracking card and put the card in the basket. This is to help in case you misplace the Angel, or are in the store and don't have the Angel with you, or if we need to get in touch with you if the gift isn't here by Sunday, December 20th!
The appropriate information is on the bottom of the Angel. Peel that off and put the top part of the Angel on the gift. You can put a card on it, but this gift is from the incarcerated parent(s). Christian literature can be included if you like; also for clothing it would be appreciated if you could get a gift receipt. Call Joyce Magnusson with questions or for more information. Most of all, pray for the Angel you have.

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH
November 13-People throughout the world cannot even speak the name Jesus or they will be severely persecuted, tortured, imprisoned, or put to death. What a powerful Name that some would be so compelled to react to His Name -- Jesus! We enjoy going to our house of worship, praying in public, private, gathering with as many or few as we want -- no restrictions on what we can do and say -- in the Name of Jesus!

We are blessed -- but do we realize that? No, oft times we are very complacent and give no thought if we would be persecuted for saying the Name of Jesus.

In your Bulletin is a little brochure on Padina, a woman whose life was forever changed by an illegal Christian satellite program that she was able to miraculously hear in her home one evening. There is also further information on The Voice of the Martyrs. VOM ministers throughout the world in hostile and restricted nations to those who suffer for being a Christian. They provide medical help, build churches, provide medical supplies, Bibles, and literature telling of the love of Jesus.

In the Narthex is a table with many VOM magazines, with a world map showing those nations; others tell of people who have been and are imprisoned because they have taken a stand for Christ -- heartbreaking, yet beautiful stories. We sent post cards to Yang Caizen who was in prison in China; she was released early, and said she would go back again -- thank you for your prayers. There are also prayer cards, so take one and pray for the specific person in that country.

Various Ministry Updates
November 6-
Please remember your Shoeboxes -- bring wrapped boxes and loose donations to Church so they can be filled by Wed., Nov 9th and wrapped and filled Boxes to Church for dedication on the 13th. Also, each box needs a $7 donation to cover the cost of shipping and handling. If you would like to help, please make checks payable to Hillside, but designate on the check and envelope: For Shoebox Ministry.

Can't think of what to get someone for Christmas, or any occasion for that matter? World Concern, World Vision, Samaritan's Purse, and probably other organizations have catalogues available to give gifts from baby chicks to wells for clean water, shelters -- something for everyone, or giving a portion toward the whole item. There are a few catalogues on the table in the Narthex. We have so much, why not share and be blessed abundantly!

If you are going to send a gift to a missionary, monetary or a package, time is getting short. Packages should be mailed by mid-November. Should you send a monetary gift to the sending Board, or to an individual, best do it soon as takes up to 3 months to get to the individual.

Pies for Tacoma Rescue Mission will be made on Tuesday, Nov. 22nd, 9 a.m. in the Church Basement. Bring your favorite rolling pin, mixing utensil, and have a nice time of fellowship. They will be delivered the 23rd.

Angel Tree names will be available Sunday, Nov. 20th.

Joe and Brenda Ziska, with Greater Europe Mission, Vienna, Austria, will be speaking Nov. 27th. A love-offering gift can be made out to Hillside Community Church and put in an offering envelope stating it is for the Ziskas’. Pray for Joe's health as he is taking chemo.

John & Mel Bjorgen-Baptist General Conference, Belize
Oct. 30th-
John and Mel Bjorgen in Belize, Central America, have compiled some interesting markers in their two-years in Belize. They said that when they look back they can say that is where our faith grew that is the time that was the most difficult and God met our every need..

Oct. 16th they were on a struggling boat to go to church because the road was flooded. Mel had baby Ellis held close due to the loud noise of the engine, hoping there were no leaks in the boat -- a stressful situation. She took inventory of what she was doing and realized This is not the Melissa of the past -- she was fading quickly and has changed. If only my family could see me now brought a chuckle to her. Things that have happened:

Going on a 1 1/2 hr. drive, road is too flooded, so another return trip; 3 car windows busted, stolen items right before her eyes; transporting a casket and body to the village for the funeral; riding a bike through the village and feeling like they were "home." Also countless flat tires and car trouble; seeing lives change slowly; trips to the city to get visa’s straightened out only to find you need to go to another city; you're the missionary and yet you learn from the villagers how selfish you really are; watching the amazing sunsets or brilliant stars in the sky (only God could paint such beautiful scenery); showing up on time for something and realizing that, unlike the American Way, the event will not happen until everyone is there. -- things that daily strengthen their character as James 1:4 says But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

Pray for Mel as she expecting another child in May -- the usual sickness and she has Evangeline who will be 3 in January, and Ellis who is 18 months.

Valen & Carol Straley-InterAct Ministries, Kamloops, B.C.
October 23-
Valen and Carol Straley, with InterAct Ministries, are located in Kamloops, B.C. They said the Summer has flown by quickly and they can see God's hand working in so many ways in their lives and that of His people in Kamloops. They had a Bible Study in the park this Summer and even with the wind blowing a few things away and an occasional visit by a dog, they all enjoyed it: the children played, we sang and studied the Word ----hopefully others heard the Word too!

Their co-workers, Ellis and Dottie will be gone for the next few months on furlough, so they ask for prayer for the energy to keep up with all the activities. Carol had 17 older kids and Dottie had 14 little ones. Also Crystal (who took a leap of faith a few years ago and went to Honduras on a mission trip) is handling the little ones -- again another step of faith for her. A youth group ministry will possibly be starting with a young couple who live about an hour away and will be coming once a month -- PTL!

Carol lost a great nephew who was only 28 and had a young son. Valen was able to speak briefly at his memorial service. And the Lord brought a baby girl, Gracelynn, into her nephew's family.

Valen and Carol are thankful for your faithfulness in prayer and giving, so they can continue their work. Valen needs prayer getting an engine into their daughter Amy's van. He got it in but didn't work and needs gauges, parts, speedometer, and prayer as he works on this project., as he is discouraged.

Howie & Jo-Ann Brant-Serving in Mission
Oct. 16-
Howie and Jo-Ann Brant with SIM (Serving In Mission), currently spend their time between their place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and a bungalow in the Gurage area. This past Friday they were heading into the Gurage area for a 3-day conference. They tried in mid-Sepember but the roads were too wet and slippery even with their LandRover (keep in mind these "roads" are not paved roads, just a lane in the wilderness). They will arrive Sat. and be teaching John 3 and 4. That night they will sleep on a cow dung floor (well compacted) on woven mats made out of banana-type leaves. They hope the fleas and bedbugs will leave them alone and have a spray they use hoping to keep the cockroaches, and other critters out. And they will be in a room with about 15 others. Howie says he has to make sure he knows where the door is, just in case he has to access it in the night. The sun comes up at 6 a.m., so they will be ready to start the day, enjoying some of the meals they knew from growing up years.

And Howie needed to get his driver's license renewed! He went to the station where he had done it before; told them his file was clear across town. So 45 min. later, in heavy traffic, they finally arrived at 10:30 only to find that they license folks had already taken their quota for the day. Guess the society there is not as electronically available as we have it here!!

Their lives are getting settled down but everything takes so much longer than we are used to here in the States. Pray for them as they get settled, school starts, their ministry -- that Jesus Christ is glorified!

Various Ministry Updates
October 9-
Pray for Joe and Brenda Ziska, who arrived late this last week in the Pacific Northwest. They are with Greater Europe Mission in Vienna, Austria, and presently on furlough for meetings, visiting churches, and health. Joe will get his third chemo treatment in Seattle with great cooperation from doctors in Ohio, Vienna, and here. Pray that he comes through the treatments okay and for strength and stamina for the meetings he will attend. Joe will be speaking at Mission Fest Seattle on Oct. 7th & 8th at Alderwood Community Church. They will be here at Hillside on November 27th. Uphold them in much prayer.

~ Roy Sprague with N.I.C.E. had surgery on his left hip on October 6th. Earlier in the year he had his right hip done, so pray for recovery for Roy, and pray for Elvia as she provides care during recovering.

~ For Operation Christmas Shoebox -- for all the needed items. If you wonder what to get, see the Shoebox announcement under “Outreach Ministry” in each week’s bulletin or take a look on the board in the ShoeBox Room (next to the Fireside Room). Remember too, that with each box there is a needed $7 for shipping and handling. Please do not put money in the Shoebox if you make up your own, but place your cash or check in an offering envelope and mark, "ShoeBox" on it, and place it in an offering box.

David & Phyllis Enns-World Team
October 2nd-
This is an excerpt from David Enns' letter. The Enns, David and Phyllis, are with World Team, currently serving in Singapore. David is quoting J.O. Fraser, and as he said, it's worth repeating:

I am feeling more and more that it is, after all, just the prayers of God's people that call down blessing upon the work, whether they are directly engaged in it or not. Paul may plant and Apollos water, but it is God who gives the increase; and this increase can be brought down from heaven by believing prayer, whether offered in China or in England. We are, as it were, God's agents -- used by Him to do His work, not ours. We do our part, and then can only look to Him, with others, for His blessing. If this is so, then Christians at home can do as much for foreign missions as those actually on the field. I believe it will only be known on the Last Day how much has been accomplished in missionary work by the prayers of earnest believers at home. And this, surely, is the heart of the problem.

Missionaries need, covet, cherish your prayers -- if you need a place to start, look in your Church Directory, pages 26-30, for missionaries that Hillside helps. God bless as you embark on your new prayer time for missions.

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission, Vienna, Austria
Sept. 25-
Joe and Brenda Ziska with Greater Europe Mission, in Vienna, Austria, are presently in the mid-West. Joe continues to monitor and treat his health. They were able to go to Denver to a GEM Conference, and Brenda visited her sister after not seeing her for 20 years -- they had a good time.

They will be coming to the Pacific Northwest in October - December, visiting various churches, one of which is Hillside Community Church on Sunday, Nov. 27th.

Joe will have two chemotherapy treatments before coming, and the doctors have arranged for the last treatment here in Seattle. Praise the Lord for such wonderful medical coordination and cooperation. Pray for Joe for the side-effects of his treatment, that it will not incapacitate his ministry. And they have a need for a car while in this area; they already have a place available for them in Bellevue, but still have need of a car.

Samaritan's Purse Shoebox Ministry
Sept. 11th-
Do you ever wonder about the notebooks, pencils, toys, etc that are asked for every year for the Operation Christmas Child Shoe Box ministry? A ministry that we are in the process of getting items for presently. Here is a story about the impact of the Shoebox Ministry:

Susana Salazar is 22-year-old elementary school teacher in Lima, Peru. Also she serves as the Sunday School director for children at her church, and she teaches the Operation Christmas Child discipleship program to children in her community. Eight years ago Susana received a shoe box gift, and that confirmed her calling. She still has -- and uses -- the little pink notebook that was among the items in her box. "I have less than 20 blank pages left. When I run out of space, I think I will just add more pages to the notebook! I was told the gifts came from people far from Peru who care about children. It made me feel important. I discovered I wanted to be a teacher, to shape children's lives, and tell them about Jesus. The shoe box started this dream because I saw how much it blessed children like me."

With each shoe box a pamphlet about Jesus is included in the language of the recipient. Your gift to shoe box could be the turning point for a child in any one of the many countries these boxes are sent to through Samaritan's Purse. As you donate needed items, pray for the one who will receive the item -- God will abundantly bless the child, and you, too!

Any questions should be directed to Tom and Lynn Johnson, and Pat Jones. And take a look at the Shoe Box room, off of the Fireside Room -- Tom and Lynn have done a beautiful job organizing it, many many thanks!


Richard & Connie Smith-Cross Resources, Inc.
August 28
-Richard and Connie Smith of Cross Resources, Inc., share with us in their Prayer Resolution Ministry. They live in Palm Bay, FL, and recently purchased a home. They converted the screened porch into an additional room for Richard's office, making the room he used to use as an additional bedroom to use for their guests. They have been in Prayer Resolution with a man from CA, also a woman from MN. Pray for them as people come for their needs and have no finances to help; they are in need of additional funds.

Katianna and Kasten, their daughter's two children were on missions trips: to Slovakia and Costa Rica respectively. And their son Eric's daughter will have their second baby any time. Teresa, their daughter, is still looking for a permanent job and doctors are working on a mysterious something in Connie's lung. Pray for each of these things.

Some folks are being called by the Lord to be more involved in Prayer Resolution full time and financial and support is much needed. As Cross Resources, Inc. grows, so do the needs in helpers doing various areas of the Ministry.

Howie & Jo-Ann Brant-Serving in Mission
August 21-
God is working mightily with Howie and Jo-Ann Brant, now in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, serving with SIM (Serving in Mission). They have their Land Rover and recently when they were slipping and sliding all over the road, merely pushed the 4-wheel drive button, and away they went! It is the rainy season there and without the 4-wheel drive, nearly impossible to navigate -- praise the Lord for their vehicle!

They recently met with the elders of Gurage representing five geographic locations and they told of how God has worked with and cared for them in the intervening years: churches bombed but no one injured; God had opened up many areas that had no response years ago but churches are there now.

The Elders showed the Brants their "bungalow" and how they had put in plumbing, shower, kitchen, tile throughout the house -- all ready to go and all they have to do is furnish it -- we were shocked!

As they entered their yard, a sheep carcass was already hanging from a tree. A fire was lit, the sheep cut into pieces, used some sheep fat and put it on the bottom of a 55-gallon drum, and roasted the pieces, and ate, relishing each and every bite. I finished my whole plate -- even had them put the ribs back in the fire -- dusted off the ashes and gnawed the bones with the rest of the men.

One of the Elders from a strong Muslim area pulled out a piece of paper with almost every member of his church, including children. Beside each name was a number, and he told them that they were pledges of people in his own church to help build their new Bible School. They think they could have as many as 30 students at the end of September when the school starts. They are looking at a back-to-back property along roads that have power and water, needing a lot of clearing but the Elders are convinced that God has led them to start a Bible School, and He will supply all that is needed to make this a reality, stepping out in faith. Pray for the purchase of property and all the myriad of details in purchasing and building this School.

Various Missionary Prayer needs:
August 14-
Joe & Brenda Ziska, with Greater Europe Mission, are on furlough and presently in Colorado. Pray for Brenda as she meets with her sister after not seeing her for ca. 20 years; and for Joe as he had a gamma ray treatment on his cancer a few days before the trip to Colorado.

Howie and Jo-Ann Brant, with Serving In Mission, as they receive the remaining funds for their Land Rover in Ethiopia, and as they settle in their new location.

Orphans Reborn camps in Russia with Slavic Gospel Association -- the Holy Spirit would work mightily in these precious lives

SOAR camps also in Eastern Russia with the orphans -- again that the Holy Spirit would work in their hearts and lives.

For the rental groups this week a Camas Meadows; safety, health, and Christ-honoring speakers.

For many many Christian camps and campers throughout the Pacific Northwest and the nation, uphold the speakers and students.

PRAYER does not fit us for the greater works; prayer IS the greater work.
-Oswald Chambers

Shared Hope
August 7th-
Shared Hope celebrates twelve years of existence getting young women and children out of the "sex-trafficking" industry. Parents in dire poverty selling their daughters not always realizing they would be involved in sex-trafficking. The horror of this is unimaginable -- we cannot comprehend it.

A Shared Hope partner recently reported the following -- of the young women and children they cared for in 2010:

20% were trafficked by their own parent
100% were suffering from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
80% have had at least one abortion

100% have been involved in the legal system, and

80% were referred by law enforcement.

But because we see that healing is possible we continue to invest in the strategy we first embraced 12 years ago when Shared Hope was born:

~ to bring an end to the scourge of sex slavery;
~ to provide restoration for the victimized;

~ to promote just remedies under the law.

Together, we continue this work because, despite the odds, lives are being restored.

Hillside Community Church contributes to this vital Ministry.

We have a young lady, Malina Brown, who gave 100% of her birthday money to this cause through World Vision -- your gift, Malina, helps other young women become free from slavery and free to know, love, and serve our Lord Jesus Christ!

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission, Vienna, Austria
July 31st-
Joe and Brenda Ziska, with Greater Europe Mission, in Vienna, Austria, are presently in Cleveland, OH, for 6 months of furlough. Also are his heath issues which they are attending to presently -- lots of prayers are needed here.

In his recent letter, Joe said, “regarding my cancer his tumors have grown significantly and they are now putting pressure on my spine. This accounts both for the discomfort in my lower back and for the weakness/numbness in my legs. A relatively new procedure (being used at the Cleveland Clinic since 2006) involves a precision shooting of tumors with gamma rays. I'm scheduled for that form of radiation therapy next Friday (July 29).”

They have plane tickets to go to 3 SW States, leaving on August 3rd (Brenda will be able to see her sister after approximately 20 years). They are scheduled to be in the Pacific Northwest from mid-September to December, but that is presently still not a "for sure" date depending on how things go with Joe.

So we have much to pray about for Joe, and Brenda and the boys (David is in Austria but Daniel is with them). God has worked miracles in his life and He will continue to do so.

SOAR International
July 24-
SOAR International - Isaiah 40:31 - " A Christian Mission dedicated to SERVICE and OUTREACH to the people of RUSSIA." While Hillside Community Church does not financially support SOAR, knitted hats and scarves, provided by our knitters, and extra hats and scarves from More Pennies From Heaven, have been of great help in this ministry.

SOAR Headquarters are in Kenai, AK, where they collect finances, hats, scarves, Bibles, Baskets of Hope, and more to give to the children in the orphanages in Russia. The Moscow Bible Camp will be held July 31-August 14th and they ask for prayer for: Vickie Magione who is busy organizing and translating the curriculum for Camp.

IMPORTANT: Pray that God will prepare the hearts of the children who will attend Camp.

God to use SOAR's Russian and US team to minister and share Christ's love with these children.

God to provide finances needed for this camp.

Prayer was also asked for Maxim, son of Ruslan and Olya Mahotkin, who is sick and may need surgery. Pray for healing for him, so the Mahotkins can pursue their goal to move to Provideniya to became the pastor there; also pray for this church's registration to be approved which will enable SOAR to fly there for ministry.

God is at work and we give Him the glory!!! If you want to check out SOAR, see their website: www.soarinternational.org

Howie & Jo-Ann Brant-Serving in Mission, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
July 17-
Howie and Jo-Ann Brant are getting settled in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, albeit slowly. They are serving with SIM (Serving in Mission) and will be starting a Bible School during their time in Addis. Their "wish list" has been pruned considerably. They found a place that was spacious enough but after all the space is utilized, Howie's "wish" to have a garden and flowers isn't possible. Don't we serve the God of the impossible? But they know they are "fishers of men" and are taking joy in expanding God's kingdom.

They have found a 2001 Land Cruiser with the need of a few minor and repairable things wrong. They are praying that the funds will come in.

They spent a few days going through the crowded market places trying to find tables, chairs, a frig, and stove. While they intended to be in by June 12th, there are electrical problems, and they hope to get a water heater in to enjoy a nice warm shower.

Their first meetings will be held July 15 and 17. On the 17th they meet with a group of urban Gurage businessmen to discuss how urban and rural Gurages can work together to spread the Kingdom in the days ahead.

Pray for Howie and Jo-Ann as they set up their new digs; they are used to all the delays involved but nevertheless frustrating.

Various Summer Bible Camps
July 10-
Summertime is a time throughout the world for students to attend Bible Camps. There are many and varied kinds of Camps and caution is urged if you are just stepping out and going to involve your children in Camp. They seem expensive and price doesn't always dictate the quality. Most groups/churches have scholarships. Check on-line for suggestions.

We know Adam and Amy Ihde have been involved in the Teen camp in Malibu; they are good resources for the Young Life ministry and camps.

Camas Meadows Bible Camp is a quality camp in the mountains over by Leavenworth/Cashmere area. Our Church helped start that Camp and the Teens always went to Snow Camp there for many many years.. Ladies go there every year the week after Mother's Day for their Retreat, meeting with women from all over the Pacific Northwest.

There are camps at Lake Retreat, Camp Berachah -- all run by various ministries.

And world-wide, the Slavic Gospel Assn. runs Orphans Reborn in Russia; SOAR International runs summer camps for orphans in Eastern Russia. They can always use funds to assist these children in attending. Haiti has camps and the list could go on and on. Pray for students world-wide as they attend Camps and for those who minister to them, for health, safety, and the Holy Spirit to move in their hearts, and Christ is honored and glorified.

David & Phyllis Enns-World Team Mission
July 3-
David and Phyllis Enns are in Singapore with World Team Mission. The motto for WT is "Glorifying God by working together to establish reproducing churches among un-reached peoples of the world." And that they do!

From February to April they were a part of a team who trained a wonderful group of about 30 members from a Filipino congregation to be better witnesses where they are; some were wondering whether God is not calling them to leave the comforts of where they are to serve on the frontier. Pray for God's guidance!

In March and early April they visited partners in two restricted countries and in one of those countries God is opening doors for the church through a rehab center they run for drug addicts. God uses all circumstances to bring people to Him and glorify Himself.

They had the joy of visiting Carissa (their daughter) and family in Papua, Indonesia, in April into May. Leigh (Carissa's husband )is being checked out on the mountain landing strips. Jason and Andrea (their daughter) and five boys are raising support for their ministry and leaving for the Faith Academy in the Philippines In January 2012. Maria keeps too busy with work and school for the liking of a dad so far away. They all love Jesus and ask for, and thank you, for prayers on their behalf.

Phyllis grew up at Hillside Community Church and some of us old-timers knew her and their three girls -- there is a special fellowship with them.

Plateau Outreach Ministries (POM)
June 26-
Plateau Outreach Ministries (POM) Mission & Vision: to provide Christ-centered social services to the community (Enumclaw, Black Diamond, Carbonado, South Prairie, Wilkeson areas) on behalf of the churches of the Plateau Ministerial Assn. Our vision is to joyfully serve as Christ's hands.

POM is comprised of four ministries: The Samaritan Project to help troubled individuals/families get back on their feet. Presently they are helping 60-80 families per month which may include vouchers (no cash) for rent, utility bills, counseling referrals to turn their lives around. Senior Care Corps as advocates for seniors, helping with transportation, assist with paperwork, & referrals to proper agencies. Emergency Food and Clothing Bank providing food, and clothing, and presently serving approximately 90+ families/individuals each week. More Pennies From Heaven (Thrift Store) staffed by volunteers, providing quality gently-used clothing and household items at a low cost. Donations are welcome and additional volunteers are welcome. Our Debbie Games is in charge of this ministry.

Hillside contributes food products for the food bank and assists financially in this ministry. There is a brochure available for more detailed information, times, etc., in the Narthex. POM is located across from the Post Office (same side of the street).

A very vital aspect of this entire ministry is that each and every family/individual is treated with dignity. They are welcomed by name and Christ's love shines brightly. We can be so pleased that we have a community of churches that unite to serve and honor Him. POM’s phone # is: 360-825-8961 and website is: www.plateauoutreach.com

Howie & Jo-Ann Brant-Serving in Mission, Ethiopia
June 19-
Howie and Jo-Ann Brant, with Serving In Mission, will be leaving for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, toward the end of June. Howie said 65 years ago he made the trip with his parents sailing from New York through the Suez Canal to Aden, Yemen, which took several weeks This time they board the plane in Seattle one evening and arrive in Addis the next evening -- 8,500 miles!

They are returning to where they (Howe and Jo-Ann) started 35 years ago and have been invited by the Gurage believers to start a Bible School. They are in need of funds for a used Land Cruiser. In July and August, which is the rainy season, off-road travel is treacherous going. They always carry a " come along" so can tie to a nearby tree and winch themselves out of any mess they get into. Presently they still need $10,000 toward the vehicle.

They finished their part on the commentary on Acts, now in the hands of an editor. "Acts: Radical Witness in a Hostile World" will hopefully be published before the end of the year.

Be in prayer for Howie and Jo-Ann as they once again resettle in their home, the land of the Gurage people. They will return each year to see Howie's mom who lives in British Columbia.

John & Mel Bjorgen-Baptist General Conference, Belize
June 12-
Busy Season, Hurricane Season from John and Mel Bjorgen in Belize, Central America. They will be hosting six teams between June 7th until the middle of August. Some of them will be back-to-back visitations. Fun, yes, challenging also! A house will be built in the village; many houses will be painted; much ministry work will be going on. Pray for safety and health for the teams, and God will be glorified in the lives of those who come and serve. John's niece will be coming to help with Evangelline and Ellis.

The visitation of the people throughout the village with the pastor and John and Mel is doing great and they are also hearing some Creole besides getting to know the people better.

Hurricane Season started June 1st and goes until Nov. 31st. They keep alert to them on the internet and ask for your prayers during the rainy season.

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission, Vienna, Austria
June 5-
Joe and Brenda Ziska, with Greater Europe Mission, in Vienna, Austria, will be on furlough from June to December this year. They will be in the Ohio area from June-August, then in the Pacific Northwest from September to December. We hopefully will have them on our schedule too. They have been in Vienna for over 30 years now and what an exciting and interesting ministry they have had in that time.

The Women's Breakfast has been mentioned, and prayed for, previously and the last one had over 200 women in attendance with 11 wanting to come to a follow-up and 6 showing up. Their discussion went very well, and others said they would be returning in the Fall.

Their many ministries and activities are on the Mission Bulletin Board in their Newsletter -- while all interesting, too many to mention in a few paragraphs.

Pray for them as they set up flights, church meetings, housing, and cars for time in Illinois, Washington, and British Columbia.

Valen & Carol Straley-InterAct Ministries
May 29-
Tornados, floods, earthquakes with resulting tsunamis are watched worldwide and yet in Kamloops, British Columbia, the storms have been of the people kind. Valen and Carol Straley with InterAct Ministries have been dealing with tragedies in their area of ministry with the Native Indians.

In their Spring Newsletter a 19-year old man who spent time in Sunday School was involved in a machete attack, with life-changing injuries. Pray for Jesse and his family. A family that has been terrorized by a drug-selling tenant; pray the tenant will be evicted soon. Easter was a blessing with the promise of salvation and 60-70 people came to a potluck, ate, sang, listened to a message, and Jim Grant gave his testimony coming out of a life of alcoholism and despair to trusting Jesus as his Savior, and having peace, being baptized that day. He will need much prayer.

Family-wise, Amy has purchased a house nearby, and Dave and Alisha (at the time of writing their Newsletter) were in Europe visiting her family in Spain, England, and France. Valen and Carol ask for prayer as they plan their furlough next Spring and the need to raise more support.

Bob & Katherine Rodger-Director of N.I.C.E.
May 22nd-
Bob and Katherine Rodgers, Director of N.I.C.E. (Northwest Independent Church Extension), at University Place, WA, reflect on the following: We are truly thankful for the Lord's wonderful grace and mercy to us. We are reminded that God desires His best for us. Psalm 34:8,9 says, O taste and see that the Lord is good; how blessed is the man who take refuge in Him! O fear the Lord, you His saints, for to those who fear Him there is no want. What a blessing to serve our God who provides.

They continue to travel visiting supporting churches and missionary pastors, some in transition, others continue to faithfully serve the Lord. A couple sensed Bob and Katherine's need to get away and provided funds to spend time on Orcas Island overlooking the water and seeing some of the sights.

Bob continues to serve on Leadership Committees, and give needed assistance while Katherine speaks at various functions besides working at the NICE Office.

Praise for the wonderful time to relax; opportunities to share the Word and be an encouragement to others. Pray for missionary families going through difficult times; for NICE finances, and a bookkeeper. Also for Katherine's Mother, and as they settle Bob's Dad's estate.

Michael & Athena Kantartjis-One Challenge
May 15-
Michael and Athena Kantartjis, with One Challenge (formerly Overseas Crusades), in Athens, Greece, relates, “The best decision in our lives was when we accepted the Lord as our personal Savior. Since I was 17 I have belonged to Him, and I enjoy every minute in His wonderful fellowship. He has been and still is a wonderful Father and Lord in every case and every area of our lives. With Him, I have had the best moments of my life, and still have many such moments. The wonderful thing about our Lord is that He never changes. He never takes revenge. He is always ready and willing to forgive us and accept us as we are.

Michael gives praise to the Lord for publishing the newspaper for 34 years. This Christian newspaper is sent to 5,000 subscribers; the rest they send without receivers' names. People distribute it in streets, hospitals, public places, and institutions. Religious leaders like the newspaper; it is the best method of salvation in the city of Athens. The paper is sent to 17 countries. In spite of terrible financial times, they remain faithful in getting this newspaper out.

One reader writes, “I would like to congratulate you for the many years of successful ministry of your newspaper, and to thank you for the great joy that it gives. Every word is a comfort in my heart. Pray for the finances needed to print this newspaper and that the Holy Spirit will touch the hearts of those who read it.

Richard & Connie Smith-Cross Resources, Inc.
May 8-
Richard and Connie Smith with Cross Resources, Inc., in Florida, write: There is an old saying that goes, Time heals all wounds but is that really true? We have not found that to be neither true nor helpful. Granted, tiny wounds do heal. Wounds that come out of betrayal and sin do not, however, disappear. Instead they go under the surface, hidden, yet poisoning the wounded one emotionally and spiritually.

Sin committed by us or against us must be paid for. There is where asking forgiveness and accusing and giving forgiveness come in.. It allows God to provide the payment for those sins.

The "how-to" of the forgiveness process is so often distorted and it is the reason God does not answer our prayers. The "how-to" is what Prayer Resolution is all about!

Richard and Connie's website is: Cross-resources.org .

Connie slowly continues to regain her strength after a bout with pneumonia. After two weeks with a woman in Prayer Resolution she wrote: Thank you very much for doing PR with me. PR has helped me to put closure to my past hurts and sins . . . God gave me the truth to replace the lies that I've believed for so long. Pray for their health and their ministry.

David & Phyllis Enns-World Team, Singapore
May 1-
David and Phyllis Enns, with World Team, living in Singapore sent this update. They will be in Papua for two and a half weeks, visiting workers and accompanying a pastor who seeks to encourage pastors, and a nice sideline, to visit their daughter and family. They ask for prayer that they will be flexible and sensitive to, and filled with, the Holy Spirit in order to accomplish His work.

In January they were in Canada helping their daughter, Andrea and family with baby #5, little Boaz -- they had a grand time

In March and April they visited partners in restricted access countries North of Singapore. They ask for prayer for the workers in those lands; the harvest is plentiful but there are many obstacles.

Phyllis served with the cook's team in helping prepare the Easter meal at the Church. The team is a wonderful example of harmony and joy in service. She says our prayer for you is that we would know more of this joy; I am coming to You now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of My joy within them (John 17:13)

John & Mel Bjorgen-Baptist General Conference, Belize
April 24-
John and Mel Bjorgen, in Belize, with daughters, Evangeline, and Ellis, sent us an e-mail update recently. Earlier this month Mel attended the Brethren Ladies Retreat with her Gale Point ladies Bible Study. Last year her friend, Shelly, came to Christ, and she went this year also. Mel says, “Keep in mind that these women rarely leave the village let alone their children.”

The theme was Exceedingly Abundantly Above All We Can Ask Or Think and theme verse, Ephesians 3:20-21. What a blessing the Retreat was to Mel and the other women; they relaxed, came out of their shells, and truly enjoyed the Retreat. What a blessing!

Mel said they had skits and their skit won! The prize: chip clips and she is using them as they were much-needed. Mel said she has a history of theatre performance so maybe that helped.

Take time if you have a computer or use snail mail and just talk to Mel as she, along with all of our missionaries, are interesting folks and want to keep in touch, and be touched , by you. Mel’s e-mail address is: lesmelissa@gmail.com


Roy & Elvia Sprague-N.I.C.E. & Richard & Connie Smith-Cross Resources, Inc.
April 17, 2011-
THANK YOU from Roy and Elvia Sprague with N.I.C.E., as Roy recuperates from hip replacement surgery. “I have FELT your prayers!” He said he is recovering quite well and has very little pain (this was from their letter of April 4th). Their ministry schedule for most of March and April had to be cancelled and he says "I am chomping at the bit" to get going again. Psalm 90:12 challenges him most every day "Lord, teach us to number our days, so that we may gain a heart of wisdom and discernment." (Berkeley). They express their thanks for our part in prayers and sacrificial giving -- they are sooooooo grateful.

Richard and Connie Smith with Cross Resources, Inc., located in Palm Bay, FL, as always, have been very busy. They had a time of Prayer Resolution in Minnesota; two weeks in Florida with a young woman from California, then a gentleman from Ohio. Mike and Denise Banker are doing Prayer Resolution in China and training. Kim Le is finishing up her PhD program and when that is completed, she will return to Siberia using Prayer Resolution tools.

In March, Connie had pneumonia, she is much better but tires easily. Pray she will regain her strength. They, too, thank you for your prayers and financial support.

Various Ministry Updates
April 10th-Howie and Jo-Ann Brant with Serving in Mission (SIM) are now back East to finish up work on the Book of Acts, and final preparations before returning to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, July 1st. They are still in need of funds for a vehicle as they will be traveling a lot between Addis and the Gurage area. Uphold them in much prayer.

Carol Magnusson with Wycliffe in Jos, Nigeria, said the Retreat was wonderful with about 80 adults and 20 children attending for the five days. The Speakers God chose for the adults, and the children, were wonderful, and she and her co-chair look forward to doing it again next year, but without the Survey just before. Elections for President seem unpredictable at best. Originally scheduled for April 1st, then the 4th, then the 5th, and still is changing at present. Businesses must close down with the people only able to go to and from the election places that day -- oh what freedom we have! Carol appreciates all your prayers so very much.

And we praise the Lord for the Teens mission trip to downtown Seattle last Saturday. They served over 200 lunches in the Market Place, and by Union Gospel Mission, with no shortage of people who desperately needed them -- what a blessing for those who received and an eye-opener for those who gave!

Vladimir and Nadia Savich-Slavic Gospel Association
April 3rd-
Vladimir and Nadia Savich minister in Russia with Slavic Gospel Association, in particular Zviriv and Lutsk cities. We faithfully get a letter every three months with pictures telling of their ministry. Life is not easy as you can see by the pictures shown on the Mission Board in the Narthex.

We conducted the celebration of the Harvest Day.. In Zviriv we personally invited people - our Christians visited unbelievers and gave invitations to them. We had wonderful celebration. In Lutsk city we did the celebration of the Harvest Day in the local Drama Theater. The representatives of local government came to this service. After the celebration we brought fruits and vegetables to needy people. (Pictures on Mission board)

Interesting is that they can teach Christian Ethics in school (remember, this is Russia)! In a recent election for the village mayor, an orthodox clergy visited citizens asking them to not vote for the Christian candidate because he goes to sect. People elected the mayor. He came to our church to thank for the help. Praise God!

Vladimir's older son is a pastor at Calvary Church. From Nov. 21-Dec. 19 we had fast and prayer. Every evening we had prayer meetings. Every day have a special topic of prayer. In spite of the fact that the Prayer House wasn't warming up and the temperature in building was about 50F, every evening the 70% of our congregation were present at these services. Seven people repented; Vladimir asks for prayer for their spiritual strengthening and growth. At a sister church which unbelievers attend, three people repented there. Praise the Lord!

Vladimir asks for prayer: Evelina, new granddaughter -- 3 grandsons and 3 granddaughters; for those who repented; possibility to have their own land or building for their services in the Calvary Church -- we need your prayers very much. Thank you very much for your love and care.

CAMAS MEADOWS BIBLE CAMP-Cashmere, WA
Camas Meadows Women's Retreat is approaching Ladies! This Retreat has been going on for 25-30 years. Women from all over the State, and other states, come, and enjoy God's tremendous beauty in the mountains above Leavenworth and Cashmere. The setting is rustic and fellowship is incredible!

This year the Retreat will be held May 13-15 (always the week after Mother's Day). Mary Cross is our Speaker this year and the theme is "Stepping Out of the Box, Stepping into Greater Faith." Mary shares from experience and her love of the Word how God desires us to live by faith and not by sight. A good challenge.

The cost is $95 for the weekend and $55 for Saturday only. A non-refundable deposit of $10 will hold a space for you. Scholarships are available also. Registrations can be made locally with Kate Percival, and she can also answer any questions on the scholarships.

There are some brochures available in the Narthex and you can also download a retreat brochure at www.camasmeadows.org. If you have any questions, contact Joyce Magnusson.

Various Missionary/Missions Updates
March 20th-
<Kaycee, Brennan, and Trish Gallagher are shown on the worldconcern.org website, February 3rd, telling about their ministry: Cookies change lives. They make cookies each year and the funds they receive go to World Concern for many items that help people in Third World countries. 2010 was their sixth year; they raised $541, enough to cure 25 children from worms, support 6 AIDS orphans, protect a child from trafficking, providing poor families with ducks, fish, a goat, chickens, a pig, a garden, and a solar cooker. What a wonderful teaching opportunity in ministering to others throughout the world!

<Uphold Roy and Elvia Sprague as Roy is supposed to go in for hip surgery on the 24th. He has been resting but knowing Roy, he doesn't do that very well.

<Praise for Eric Martin, newborn son of Eric and Sarah Joy Landon, and proud grandparents, Bob and Katherine Rodgers. Eric weighed in at 8# and is 19" long; he is #4 grandchild and brings great joy, especially in the loss of Bob's Father on February 19th.

<Children's Church has been working on a mission project. They have a "jug" depicting water and for each dollar a blue sticker was placed on the jug. Praise the Lord, the jug is full, $150. This will go to World Concern for "wells and health training on sanitation in SE Kenya" . Great job, kids!! This will be written up for the WC website also.

Michael & Athena Kantartjis-One Challenge, Athens, Greece.
March 13-
Michael and Athena Kantartjis, Athens, Greece, with One Challenge (formerly Overseas Crusades), says the following: We praise the Lord as He continues to be always with us. The more we concentrate our lives on Him, the He gives us wisdom, peace, and power to overcome Satan and the world. We also praise Him as the hours of fellowship with Him become more meaningful. Peace of heart and mind are found in the secret times of close fellowship with Him. The Lord, and only the Lord, can fill us with His presence. He is the source of everything we need to live a victorious and triumphant life.

Michael gives praise to the Lord for the ministry of his wife, Athena. She is a great encouragement to their people; participates in all meetings of the ministry; constantly helps the women and counsels and encourages women through personal contact in the center and through the phone.

The financial situation in Greece is very bad; government has cut salaries and money from pensions. Please uphold them in prayer.

We praise the Lord, because He is the one who hears prayers.

Various Missionary Updates
March 6-
From World Focus, Wycliffe letter: I thought that when you were a pastor you would no longer need the prayers of other Christians. Then I learned that Paul asked that people not forget to pray for him so that he could continue his ministry as he should. I understand now that I must pray for my pastor, for his ministry, and his family."

That was from Jean Baptiste in Burkina Faso -- we can learn from this statement and put it into effect!!

>Pray for Carol Magnusson, Wycliffe, Nigeria. She left for another Survey March 1-18 under a great deal of stress. The Team is comprised of new interns and haven't had a lot of time to be trained. Her car's spark plugs needed replacing and she asks that the car can make the trip. Pray for health, safety, interpersonal relationships, car will hold up, connections with the village chiefs, and good helpers in their work. Most of all that the Lord would be glorified in all they do. Carol always says that they know you are upholding them in prayer. Also she is co-chairman of a Retreat (March 23-28), so is under a lot of stress.

>Uphold Howie and Jo-Ann Brant with SIM (currently residing in Woodinville, WA). They are going through all their effects stored for many years. There are lots of memories, so the process is slow. July, 2011, is when they hope to be in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.


Northwest Independent Church Extension (N.I.C.E.
February 27
-N.I.C.E. (Northwest Independent Church Extension) News: Bob and Katherine Rodgers have a busy schedule visiting churches in the NW area, and on March 2-6 will be involved in the I.F.CA. Conference at Edgewood Bible Church as will the Sprague's, the Brubaker's (currently serving as Interim Pastor at Deary Bible Church, Idaho).

Jesus and Maria Cordova, Hispanic Field Director, are asking for prayer for Maria, who is recovering from cancer surgery. The operation went well but she will have to have follow-up chemo therapy. Pray that healing would go well; that all the cancer was removed; and that God would supply for the medical costs.

Jim and Christy Edgell, Wiskah Valley Community Church, (Hoquiam, WA) praise the Lord for a group of men meeting faithfully for Bible Study, and asks for prayer for continued opportunities to share the Gospel, and to follow up on new believers. Jim and Christy grew up at Hillside and Jim is the son of John Edgell who was our pastor for a number of years.

PRAYER does not fit us for the greater works; prayer IS the greater work. Oswald Chambers

Soup Label & Box Top Ministry
February 20-
Do you save the pink and yellow Box Tops, and have a bag full of Campbell product labels? Well, if you don't have a place to donate them, Maxine Glaze has been collecting them for years, and would appreciate whatever you may have. She sends them to Taylor Christian School in Mission, TX. In September the School was broken into and vandalized; fire extinguishers were set off in every room and the School was shut down for a week while everything was cleaned, and some books had to be replaced. However, what Satan meant for evil, God used for good. Teachers and staff witnessed to the cleaning company; unity with parents and staff was evident. Donations have been received for the School to help with the loss.

Box tops and Campbell labels are needed more than ever. On the Campbell labels you need have only the UPC code with the Campbell kid -- don't cut between the UPC code and the Campbell kid or Shield even though it says "cut here." If unsure, you may save the entire label.

A copy of the letter from Taylor Christian School showing the Box Tops and Label sample in on the table by the Mission Bulletin Board.

If you already save these labels for your child's school, that's great, keep up the good work!

David & Phyllis Enns-World Team Singapore
Feb. 6-
David and Phyllis Enns with World Team, in Singapore have welcomed boy #5 in the family to Andrea and Jason in Three Hills, Alberta. They are now back in Singapore.

A young woman who ministers to the people in the slum area of a city in Singapore found it hard to reconcile that "they pray five times a day, and we meet once a week to pray." It was an emotionally challenging experience for Phyllis. Her only response was to repent and recommit herself to get serious about what is on God's heart.

She said she hadn't planned on this kind of a letter. She doesn't want to put us on a corporate guilt trip -- “my default motivation”. She said she felt humbled, ashamed, challenged and blessed… ”I want to know what God is asking of me”.

Late in 2010 they were involved in a Mission Month and it was a time of blessing and challenge. Pray that we will follow the Lord's leading in prayer for the ministries the church is involved with. They have visited churches (registered and unregistered) in Vietnam; friends in Papua; fellowship with families in Kalimantan; and brothers and sisters who are on the front lines, and for those who are persecuted for His Name.

They are thankful for the support which is well-covered enabling them to cut back on monthly support from World Team -- praise the Lord!

Various Missionary Updates
January 30->Good news is that John and Mel Bjorgen, Evangeline, and Ellis, returned to their home in Belize this past Friday. She had her second "blast" of a kidney stone, and hopefully on her way to good health. Pray for them as they return to Beize and their work.

>Be in prayer for Maria, wife of Jesus Cordova, with NICE. She will be having surgery this Wednesday at Northwest Hospital. They are strongly involved in the Spanish ministry.

>Thank you for welcoming Howie and Jo-Ann Brant, with SIM, returning to Ethiopia this July. They want to finish the work the Lord sent them to do where they began 40 years ago.

>Pray for Carol Magnusson as the Survey Team left Jan. 17th to Southern Nigeria in the Obudu area (next to the Cameroon border). Pray for health, safety, interpersonal relationships, and God's choice of contacts in the villages they will do their Surveys. They will return to Jos, February 4th.

Howard & Jo-Ann Brant-Serving in Mission
January 23-
WELCOME HOWIE and JO-ANN BRANT! In April, 1971, they started their Mission work with Sudan Interior Mission (now Serving In Mission) in Ethiopia. Now, after 40 years, and having been in many other countries, most recently in Nairobi, Kenya, they will be returning to their Guragae brothers and sisters in Christ in Ethiopia. Hillside Community Church has been a supporter of Howie and Jo-Ann through all 40 years and helping in needs at times. They have three children, all of whom are involved in mission outreach, and we've had the joy of seeing them grow up and now having children of their own.

While Howie speaks to the congregation, Jo-Ann will be speaking to the Children's Church. The children are our future in missions and we all will be blessed.

You will have an opportunity to visit with them at the Pot "Trust" in the Social Hall downstairs after the Service.

Kids Alive
January16-
KIDS ALIVE International is a ministry to children in many countries throughout the world. The area we have heard about most, recently, is that of Haiti, after the devastating earthquake in 2010. The help needed in the aftermath of the earthquake hasn't diminished at all with needs of medical staff, many volunteer workers, medicines, food, clothing, housing -- all the things we so take for granted every day. The bacterial disease, cholera, has taken a great toll too and can simply be prevented.

There is always a need to help support a child in Haiti, or elsewhere in the world. A donation of $10-$25 per month goes a long way in helping a child to a sense of normalcy.

Amber Thomson sponsored a Kids Alive young girl in the Dominican Republic. If you would like to provide a gift in memory of Amber, or sponsor your own child, please visit the Kids Alive website at: http://www.kidsalive.org for opportunities to help abused and poverty stricken children.

John & Mel Bjorgen-Baptist General Conference
January 9-ONE BLAST DOWN, ONE TO GO
-- that was Mel Bjorgen's e-mail on Wednesday morning. She and John, along with Evangeline and Ellis, are presently in Maryland from their mission post in Belize, Central America.

They are having a wonderful time being with the family, all of them seeing Ellis for the first time and seeing how much Evangeline has grown. They are not however, enjoying the cold!

The procedure for removing Mel's kidney stones is called "lithotripsy" and she has one down and one to go. She is not taking any pain meds because she is nursing, so she is in a lot of pain. They will do the other stone and hopefully figure out why she has had these and do what needs to be done not to have it happen again. Please remember to Uphold them in prayer at this time.

Missionary Holiday Updates!
December 26-
The Mission Bulletin Board in the Narthex has Christmas cards, pictures and newsletters from many of our Missionaries -- please take a look, read them, and most of all pray for them. They have to deal with the same situations we do: interpersonal relationships, the economy, health and safety. All their e-mail addresses are listed in the Church Directory, pages 26-30.
Continue in prayer for the Bjorgens (John, Mel, Evangeline, and Ellis) in Belize, as they prepare to go to Maryland for Mel's removal of kidney stones; passport for 2-month old Ellis; clothing for the children as they go from tropical to very cold weather; all would go well with the doctors and surgery; a car for their use in the States; the people they are leaving in Belize; health, and safety. Mel is so honest as she said she "misses her Mommy," but Mel knows they were called by the Lord to go to Belize too!
Howie & JoAnn Brant with Serving in Mission, left Kenya for the last time, arrived in Seattle Dec. 19th, and are living in Woodinville for the next 3+ months. They will be with us January 23rd. After their time Stateside, they will be moving to Ethiopia where they started in missions 40 years ago, and will end there.
Letters also from the Enns', Ziska's, Brant's, Boersma's (former Pastor at Hillside), Kantartjis', Johnson's -- take time to read about their work for the Lord!

John & Mel Bjorgen-Baptist General Conference-Belize
December 19-
Please continue in prayer for Mel Bjorgen, with husband, John, and two young daughters, in Belize. Mel has two kidney stones: one is 1 cm and will never move, the other is 6 mm and it is stuck. These are causing her infections. They are living in Belize City presently as she must go the hospital every 12 hours to have an IV administered to help control her fever which is 102+. The IV was to help within 48 hrs. and as of last Sunday, hadn't changed. She is trusting in the Lord, but says her mind wanders off course. Her verse is: "For My God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory."

Pray for Joe and Brenda Ziska in Vienna, Austria, as they are having a Christmas Concert and desire to have many attend to hear about their Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Uphold all our missionaries in prayer as they celebrate His birth throughout the world and are away from their families at this joyous time of celebration.

Howie & Jo-Ann Brant-Serving in Mission
December 12-
Howie and Jo-Ann Brant, with Serving In Mission, are bringing their ministry to another level, having trained and discipled strong men in the ministry; showing them the various places they ministered, and praising the Lord for a tremendous outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Continent of Africa to serve Him.

Ethiopia is where Howie grew up as a child as his Father ministered in missions; Howie followed in his Father's footsteps; after his marriage to Jo-Ann they went back to Ethiopia and served in various capacities in SIM. Now in this season of their lives, they will be home (Pacific Northwest) for a few months, and eventually are returning to Ethiopia.

They are so thankful for the love, prayers, and financial support we have given them over these many many years. Howie and Jo-Ann will be with us on Sunday, January 23, 2011; please be sure to attend and be blessed.

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission-Vienna, Austrias
December 5
-In Joe and Brenda Ziska's November Newsletter (Greater Europe Mission, Vienna, Austria) they have so much to thank God for and a lot for which to praise Him.

Joe had laser treatments during the Summer and he no longer has any aching in his back. His tumor on the L5 vertebrae is gone! His PSA has gone down from 1.04 to 0.9 -- how we praise the Lord with them! And Daniel has a part-time job in an IKEA warehouse until the end of January -- pray that he will get on full time.

In October 180 women came to the Klosterneuburg Women's Breakfast. At one of the follow-ups "Cappuccino for the Soul" "I came to the Stiftcafe an hour too early, because the time on my cell phone and car clock had not been turned back when we had the time change. White I was waiting for someone to show up, I met an older woman in the entryway. I asked her if she was at the cafe for the Women's Breakfast meeting. She said no, but she had heard about it and had been wanting to come! She gave me her address, so I could l send her an invitation when the next meeting happens in the Spring. Amazing! She just walked out the door when I stopped to talk with her. If I hadn't been too early, I would never have met her." (There are no coincidences in life.) Three women did come and Brenda said their reaction was very interesting. They could not accept that we were sinners. We were both so nice and did nice things...and of course they did too and were also not really sinners! Pray for these ladies for they are still just at the beginning of their search for God.

ANGEL TREE
November 21-This is a Ministry of Prison Fellowship to make sure incarcerated
parents can give their children gifts at Christmas. This started
years ago when women prisoners would horde little soaps, shampoos, etc., to give their children as gifts. When one of the woman was released, she was the start of this program which ministers to over half a million children each year. And Prison Fellowship took the lead making applications available to prisoners to give to their Chaplains, sending them to Headquarters, and disbursed to the areas where the children and their caretakers live.
In the Narthex is a board with Angels on it. Each Angel has a child's
first name only, with suggestions for gifts: one Angel is for a toy;
one Angel is for clothing, so each child has 2 Angels. Attached to
the Angel is a "Tracking Card" for you to fill out as you pick out
your Angel, with your name and phone number so I can make sure all the Angels are in and who to call if the gift has not arrived. Leave
it in the basket below the Angel Tree.
Each gift preferably should not be more than $20 (it is up to you),
you purchase the gift as close to what is described at the bottom of
the Angel, wrap it, and return it here to Church no later than
December 19th so they can be distributed to the families. If you want to include a Bible, or books, feel free to do so. Peel off the bottom part of the Angel and adhere the top part to the gift (really
important). Ask Joyce Magnusson, 825-1489, if you have any questions. You will be blessed by this Ministry!

Voice of the Martyrs
November 14-
Today, November 14th, is the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. There are Christians throughout the world that are imprisoned for their belief in Jesus Christ as their Saviour. Their churches have been burned, Bibles burned, those who attend services tortured and asked to renounce their Christianity -- we are so blessed to have the spiritual freedom to attend churches where we want, still have a National Day of Prayer, and students praying at the flag pole worshipping freely.

The Voice of the Martyrs ministry responds to the above situations, providing Bibles, study materials, medical help, and sharing God's love to all they meet. In 2009 the Seniors of Hillside made 62 small parachutes for a pilot to attach a recorder, Bible, and study materials in the Colombian language and air-dropped them at night, in the jungle, to the bad military troops; also in the daytime to villages for families. There are also Action Packs with items in them to sustain the people who have nothing.

On the table in the Narthex are VOM magazines you can have, some with maps of the most persecuted places in the world. Please feel free to take some. Also there are Some pre-printed postcards with a message and verse on them that you can take, sign, and put a .98 stamp, and send to encourage Esther's Mother, Yang, who is in prison. These cards are very effective and many have been released as a result. Most of all: pray.

Richard & Connie Smith-Cross Resources
November 7-
Richard and Connie Smith with Cross Resources (Prayer Resolution), have moved to Florida. They had to wait a while but their house deal went through and they moved from Phoenix, AZ, to Palm Bay, FL. Now comes the chore of furnishing their first home, i.e., washer/dryer, stove, refrigerator. They have been busy with counseling in California; and will be going to Minnesota and Washington, D.C. involving training and guiding participants in Prayer Resolution.
Granddaughter, Katianna (Theresa's daughter), spent time in India on a mission trip, making this her third mission trip. Granddaughter, Haven (Eric's daughter), her husband and small baby also went to Swaziland, South Africa, on a church mission trip.
Update on Richard's health: with traveling and lack of exercise his latest lab results indicate his kidneys are not normal. Getting settled into their home and slowing down (not a term they exactly know) will hopefully improve his health.
Pray for Richard and Connie as they settle in, God bless them in their very intense work, and in Richard's health!

John & Mel Bjorgen Update!
October 31-
UPDATE ON THE BJORGENS IN BELIZE: Hurricane Richard devastated their apartment. Four feet of water and an inch thick of sludge. They lost many of their appliances and food. The appliances were high but the water was so strong they were knocked down. Mel cannot help clean as she is recuperating from her C-section on Oct. 13th; John isn't able to do it by himself so they are currently working out a plan. The village roofs were torn off and a couple of houses destroyed. The base is soaked; huge water containers blown off the buildings; and their house is full of wet clothing. Pray for them; they need funding for the base, the village and their personal items. Their e-mail is: belizemission@gmail.com. Teams are also needed to rebuild the houses.

As we approach Christmas season, please give thought to the needs of others throughout the world. On the table in the Narthex are catalogues from various agencies. There aren't a lot of copies but you can take the 1-800# or website address and request catalogues. Children can be involved in these projects and know that their sacrifice is helping others have food on the table, clean water to drink, school supplies to use, escape from life-threatening diseases, and that Jesus loves them so very much.

John & Mel Bjorgen-Baptist General Conference-Belize
October 24-
CONGRATULATIONS to John and Mel Bjorgen, and sister, Evangeline, on the arrival of Ellis Jane, Wednesday, October 13th. She weighed in at 6 lbs. 6 oz., 20.5" long, and came with "lungs-a-blazin."

Mel and John are in Belize (Central America). The name Ellis means "My God is the Lord" and Jane means "God is Gracious." "My God is the Lord and He is Gracious" is what we like to say. We thought this to be a very fitting name after everything that we have been through the past year and that is why we fell in love with her name."

Mel had Ellis C-section, and is doing good. She said Ellis is very chill. She sleeps all the time. Mel says: "I don't know if any mom can properly describe the incredible feeling that comes over them when they hold their baby for the first time. You know it's kind of how I imagine it will be to finally hug Jesus. Relief, gratefulness, incredible LOVE."

There are pictures on the Mission Bulletin Board in the Narthex. Pray for John, Mel, Evangeline, and baby Ellis as they make adjustments; for safety and health as they continue to minister to the Belizeans.

Michael & Athena Kantartjis-One Challenge
October 17-
Michael and Athena Kantartjis with Overseas Crusades (now One Challenge) in Athens, Greece, told of the Family Camp they had this Summer. They have had Family Camps for 27 years and 11 years in the present location. He says, “Our people love it, and they came with enthusiasm to participate in this celebration. People came with their families to enjoy the fellowship and the warm sea. It was a time of joy, rest, and fellowship for the six days. Praise the Lord! We heard sermons from six speakers, all members of our ministry. It was really a heavenly situation as we heard the Word of God from men who have been disciples of Michael.”

Some comments from the attendees:

“I have to express my joy for participating in the camp. I see the hand of God in our fellowship. Under God we lived wonderful and blessed times. Praise the Lord!

“This is the first time I came to Camp. Thank you for your love to me. All of you have the Spirit of God You try to show your love in many different ways. You gave me very much love and joy. Thank you!

“I am very glad to be in the Camp. I have come since 1997. Now I am with my family. You really feel renewed. It is a time of awakening and revival.

Michael says, “We praise the Lord as everything is going very well. Regardless of the bad financial situation of Greece, we all are doing very well. Praise the Lord! Greece is under constant attacks from Satan, we praise the Lord for His protection, His care, and His blessings. The fact that we sow big through literature and the dial-in ministry, and the fact that we present the Gospel in a clear way drives Satan crazy. We need your prayers, your love, and your support very much.”


SENDING HOLIDAY GREETINGS TO YOUR MISSIONARIES


October 10-Here are some guidelines for sending gifts to your missionaries:
>Cards and letters should be sent directly to the missionary's personal mailing address -- see pages 26-30 in your Church Directory.
>Allow at least a couple of weeks overseas; check post office for amount needed.
>Should you decide to send a package check with the missionary to see what the custom regulations are; sometimes it is prohibitive for the missionary.

Monetary gifts
:
Tax-deductible gifts
- make your checks payable to the sending board and indicate who it is for on a separate piece of paper. You will receive a receipt.
Non-tax-deductible gifts
- send a personal check, payable too the missionary. Indicate it is a personal Christmas gift. These do not qualify for receipts.
Monetary gifts should arrive to the sending board by mid-November if the missionary is to receive it by Christmas.


Samaritan's Purse-Operation Christmas Child
October 3-
Your gift of love may be the door God uses to open a child’s heart to Jesus Christ. Samaritan’s Purse Operation Shoebox is fast approaching and YOU are a vital part of this world-wide outreach program. Patty Jones of Hillside is heading up this project this year and has been busy wrapping shoe boxes—you can do this too, shoe boxes are available in the Fireside Room! These pretty shoe boxes are filled with: school supplies, toys, hygiene items, and other items and sent to desperately poor children throughout the world and delivered by the dedicated staff of Samaritan’s Purse, along with a booklet in their own language of the love of Jesus Christ—WOW, what a ministry!

Patty mentioned the need for $7 per shoebox and those envelopes are on the table in the Narthex. Also needed are school supplies-pens, pencils, crayons, paper (not standard size paper as it doesn't’ fit the boxes) etc.; toys preferably new or in excellent condition (small cars, balls, dolls, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump ropes, small Etch-A-Sketch, toys that light up or make noise (along with extra batteries) Slinky, etc. Hygiene items such as washcloth, toothbrush, toothpaste, mild bar soap (in a plastic bag), comb, etc. Other hard candy, lollypops, mints, gum (please put all candy in a plastic bag), T-shirts, socks, ball caps, hair clips, toy jewelry, watches, and you may also include a personal note.

You may take a box and fill it on your own or just purchase some items and put them in the Narthex or Fireside room. The fill date will be Nov. 10th at 10:30 AM and the deadline to turn in all shoe boxes is Nov. 14th. If you have questions, please call Patty Jones.

A Part to Play-Praying for your Missionaries!
September 26-
No Christian worker can "go it alone." When missionaries follow God's call to serve at home or abroad, they need to know that behind them are people constantly upholding them in prayer.

It takes discipline and commitment to pray for people who live in a place we know little about, who work in a language we don't speak, who may eat breakfast while we're going to bed, and who may not be back home for some years. But they don't stop being our brothers and sisters while they're away.

Remember that your prayers count!
There are copies of "Ways to pray for your Missionary" (which are all listed in the Missionary Section in your Church Directory and featured each week in the Bulletin) and a detailed weekly Prayer list for them on the Mission Bulletin Board in the Narthex.

Various Ministry Updates!
September 19-
Camas Meadows Men's Retreat will be held September 24-26, at Camas Meadows Bible Camp (above Leavenworth). Pray for the speakers: Ken Baker and Ken Mattheis, and that the men's lives will be changed through the message given.

On September 24th, there will be a Women's Breakfast in Vienna, Austria, where Joe and Brenda Ziska with Greater Euope Mission, have their ministry. This is an outreach to the women and in the past over 200 women have attended. There is a speaker and special music. Pray that the Holy Spirit will work mightily in the lives of these women.

Roy and Elvia Sprague with N.I.C.E. (Northwest Independent Church Extension) conducted Vacation Bible School in 6 churches this summer with children in each one praying to trust Christ as their Savior. Pray that these children will get involved in a church and grow in the Lord.

Praise the Lord! Richard and Connie Smith with Prayer Resolution (Cross Resources, Inc.) have moved into their new home in Florida. This home has adequate space for their needs and guest accomodations too. A couple spent time with them after spending three years in China doing Prayer Resolution. More is happening in China than even here in the U.S, especially in the area of forgiveness.


John & Mel Bjorgen-Baptist General Conference, Belize
September 12
-Our Missionaries, John and Mel Bjorgen, in Belize, grieved with the village that they serve because a dear friend of theirs and villager passed away on August 7th. She was 23, leaving a husband, a little girl, and grieving Christian friends and villagers behind. PRAY for the Bjorgens and the villagers as their hearts are so heavy. John was asked to transfer the body in their truck to various "wakes" along the way. This was a difficult task for the Bjorgens due to the cultural traditions that are harmful to the people that they love. These tradition include: crying, drinking, eating, and smoking weed during the wake -- it was like a party. Despite all of that, Pastor Kenny gave a wonderful salvation message and they had a Christian burial.

They were able to take a vacation in Mexico and enjoyed some simple pleasures that life in Belize does not offer. They have pictures from their vacation that you can find on the bulletin board in the Narthex. Please remember to uphold the Bjorgens in prayer.

David & Phyllis Enns-World Team in Singapore
September 5-
David and Phyllis Enns with World Team in Singapore, report the following: Recently Phyllis' Mom (Darlene Straley- long time member of Hillside) phoned them. Phyllis was giving her an update and Phyllis said something like, "We are praying that God will work this out for them -- referring to something with their kids." I will not forget Darlene’s response: "There is NO question about Him working it out for good. We need to pray for His peace while they wait, but we have His promise - there is NO question at all!"

They traveled twice to China. The second trip was to help out in an English Summer Camp, part of a 17-member team. They met a wonderful young lad who wanted an English name, so they named him Stephen (the name of the Enns' deceased son). They asked for prayer for the children of China.

What a Missions emphasis -- from August 1 - September 19th their Church has had a time of emphasizing Missions; the theme is "Mission Church: What's That?"

PRAY: that God will deepen our commitment for missions during this "Mission's Month," and that more members will hear the call to get involved.

PRAY: for the youth and children of Asia!

September 19-23 tentative trip to Vietnam; Oct. 5-Nov. 2 ministry in Papua; Oct. 23-30 Reteat with Pastors; Nov. 17 Seminar on the Family in Kalimantan

Their e-mail is: DavidHEnns@yahoo.com and the full letter with pictures is on the Mission Board in the Narthex.

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission-Vienna, Austria
August 29-EXCITING NEWS FROM AUSTRIA
: Joe and Brenda Ziska, with Greater Europe Mission (GEM), in Vienna, Austria, wrote and were so happy to announce a second service starting at the Klosterneuburg Fellowship in September. How very exciting! Their leadership team consists of the first couple who has been with them from the beginning of their work, Fritz and Gabi, and have decided to add Jonathan, whose emphasis is an outreach to young adults in Klosterneuburg. Pray for this Fellowship

There will be another Women's Breakfast on October 16th and invitations are being sent out and posters hung advertising this event. This is an outreach to women, and those interested for more spiritual guidance can attend a follow-up called "Cappuccino for the Soul." Pray the Holy Spirit will prompt ladies to attend.

And Joe and Brenda are happy to tell that their son, David, has a job as a software developer for a company called Modern Electronics. He has a month's time as a test period. Daniel is still looking for a job but started with a company that is like Manpower and has worked a short time in the past few weeks.

Joe and Brenda would so enjoy hearing from you: their e-mail is joe_ziska@yahoo.com. Their September Prayer and Praise is on the Bulletin Board and copies available too.


Michael & Athena Kantartjis-Overseas Crusades
August 22-
Overseas Crusades is the Mission Board for Michael and Athena Kantartjis, in Greece, longtime missionaries of Hillside Community Church. Michael is very outspoken for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He has spoken to royalty, Greek Orthodox bishops and priests who welcome him and His Good News message, and they value his wisdom very much.

For 32 years they have printed a newspaper which goes all over Greece and into 16 other countries -- this is the Good News and people have come to the Lord Jesus as the Holy Spirit has moved them as they read this newspaper. A retired judge said, “The newspaper is doing an excellent job. It has articles for all the family. It deals with subjects. There are articles that speak about contemporary problems, prayer, the Holy Spirit, answers to our prayers, true stories that show the power of God, testimonies, and it always has a main article that gives the clear message of salvation. When I receive it I read it all. Praise the Lord!”

Greece is in a bad way financially, and spiritually, so getting these newspapers out is always a challenge. They ask for prayer for the Lord to intervene.

Michael gives praise as the Lord continues to take care of his family. He says, "We are doing well!"

Valen & Carol Straley-InterAct Ministries-Kamloops, B.C.
August 15-
Valen and Carol Straley, with InterAct Ministries, live in Kamloops, B..C., and minister to the Indians there. Wit regret some of the strong couples have moved, but God sends new, so they said it all evens out. They say "We continue to be amazed at the learning hearts of our core group who are usually at the Bible studies as well. God is speaking to hearts and opening eyes to His truth."

They took a week and a half camping trip around the Olympic Peninsula and thoroughly enjoyed themselves, walking the beaches, playing in tidal pools, and hiking to the very tip of Washing State. They visited four reservations seeing the different tribal groups. Nice break and they ended up at Valen's family reunion.

They celebrated 36 years of marriage (and some of us old-timers remember their wedding) mentioning they have been in Canada for 23 years. They are so thankful to those who keep in touch, and are thankful for the support of our church. Making ends meet is taking increasing ingenuity due to the economy and the rising Canadian dollar.

Praise: For the faithfulness of the Native believers--they are true pictures of Christ's love in their community.

For the opportunities to be with our extended families, what a blessing!

Prayer: For our family as we continue to lean on God in changing circumstances. They ask that God would be seen in all of us.

Operation Shoebox Ministry
August 8-
Operation Christmas Child, Shoebox Ministry -- seems so early to start thinking about that but 'tis time! Pat Jones said she would head up the Shoe Box Ministry this year BUT she would so appreciate if someone could also step in, and co-lead with her.

Why is this being brought up so early? Back-to-school sales offer great opportunities to stock up on items needed for the shoeboxes.

I found 25 24-color boxes of Crayons at Target last week for .25 each -- that's good! Some of the items we could use are: 24-pack color of Crayons; rulers with metric readings on one side; erasers; packages of wood pencils; colored pencils; colored markers; packages of ball point pens; notebooks that fit in a shoebox (not the full 8 1/2 by 11); pencil sharpeners; solar powered calculators (for older children); small flashlights w/batteries; small soft stuffed animals that are either new or very clean; toothbrushes; toothpaste; combs; soap (preferably not a real fragrant kind like Irish Spring); washcloths; hard candy is fine, no soft/melty-types; socks; barrettes; soft balls; small games/toys; and colorful T-shirts; there will be a more comprehensive list later on -- this is just a starter and for you to take advantage of the sales before school.

The shoe boxes are decorated and items placed in about mid-November. Eventually the boxes are sent throughout the world to orphanages, worn-torn countries, and those in depressed areas and distributed through Samaritan's Purse. And in the boxes are placed Gospel tracts in the language where they are being distributed, so Christ is brought to remote areas.

Bring your contributions to the Fireside Room and they will be stored until they are needed. Pray about how you will help in this Ministry.

Richard & Connie Smith-Cross Ministries
August 1-
Happy “50th” Anniversary to Richard & Connie Smith on Aug. 6th! Richard and Connie are under Cross Ministries, and they do Prayer Resolution Counseling throughout the world. They went out many years ago to Colombia, South America, as missionaries; had two children, Teresa and Eric. They could see the need for the resolution of problems just within the mission group. They spent time in Ethiopia and eventually started Cross Ministries. They train people in Prayer Resolution; we have some locally, and others that are working in China, Russia, and other nations.

Richard does not need a hip replacement as the doctors originally thought. His cancer is also kept in check, and both are doing well health-wise. Teresa's job finished the end of July; her daughter, Katianna (16) went to India for 5 weeks on a mission trip. In September, Eric's daughter, Haven & her husband and 1-yr. old, Kairo are going to Swaziland for a two-week mission trip.

Exciting to see the generations continuing on in missions. Send a card and a prayer to these very dedicated missionaries.

Bob & Katherine Rodgers-N.I.C.E.
July 25-
Bob and Katherine Rodgers with Northwest Independent Church Extension (N.I.C.E.) are going into a new arena in their ministry. They are very familiar of course with NICE, having been in ministry in the Poulsbo area, and as liaison with many churches in the Pacific Northwest.

In October of this year, Bob will be installed as the Director of NICE (headquartered in University Place in Tacoma), following the footsteps of Earl and Shirley Brubaker.

There is a "bit" of pride, in that Katherine grew up at Hillside Community Church. She serves as President of the Women's group in the National IFCA, speaks at retreats, as well as helps with the care of her mother, Lawanna -- a woman of great talent and much energy.

Their youngest son, Andrew, received his Assoc. of Science degree and will be attending the University of Washington this fall.

Pray for them as they go into this new time of their lives; for wisdom, and for the Lord's guidance.

Katherine's mother is doing very well compared to the last two years when she was dying of a brain tumor. Bob, Katherine, and Lawanna were at a baseball game on July 9th (their Church is Bonney Lake Community Church) playing Hillside and we enjoyed visiting with them at that time. We give Him the praise!

Howard & Jo-Ann Brant-Serving in Mission
July 18-
2010 ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR HOWARD BRANT (DMISS '85) TRINITY EVANGELICAL DIVINITY SCHOOL Howard Brant, was born in Alberta, Canada, to missionary parents and spent his childhood years in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. After finishing eighth grade he returned to Canada for high school and Bible school where he met Jo-Ann. They married in 1966. After graduating from Seattle Pacific College, getting his Bachelors and Masters Degrees, and Jo-Ann her Bachelors Degree, they went to Ethiopia and researched a tribe (Guragae, outside of Woliso) which had only 3 believers out of 750,000 Guragae. Today there are 100 churches with 15,000 believers out of 2 million.

Jo-Ann (she got her PhD in Cultural Anthropology) has been working with the HIV/AIDS work where they are presently, in Kenya.

Hillside has been blessed to have been a part of their support team from the very beginning of their mission outreach.

Their Mission Board is SIM (Serving in Mission formerly Sudan Interior Mission). They have three children: Krista Roes serving with Greater Europe Mission (GEM) in Germany; Lisa Lawrence a nurse working with Iraqi refugees as a part of Arab World Ministries in Amman, Jordan; and Judson Brant who reenlisted for a third tour with the U.S. military in Iraq, where he witnesses for Christ while working in military intelligence. We have been a part of seeing their children grow up and now serving the Lord.

The Brants want to close their ministry by returning to Ethiopia where they started 44 years ago, probably in the next year.

(See Bulletin board for the whole write-up of Howie, and his latest Brant Direct Link on "The Ibis and the Sparrow.")

Carol Magnusson-Wycliffe Bible Translators
July 11-
Carol Magnusson in Jos, Nigeria, with Wycliffe Bible Translators, has found a new place to live. Her present landlord is raising the rent 30%, it has limited electricity, and she carries water to her home. The new place is bout 10 min. from her work, is a family home with "boys quarters" (guards but they don't live in it), a good, quiet generator (like the Gallagher's she said), bore water, fruit trees, guards, dogs and 3 girls (ages 9,6,2). She said the 6-year old drew a picture with a house, car, "welcome home," and "we love you" on it and she wanted Carol to move in immediately. Rent is almost half of the other place and she has to pay a year in advance, so needs a month to save up $1,000 (that's about $83/month).

She is very excited about the move; can even make applesauce now with the apple trees (they are too expensive to buy as they are from Washington).. She uses it a lot in her cooking. Also orange and mango trees, and there is also a garden. She has two bowls with her homegrown lettuce.

Pray that this will be as good a match as it seems. They are a Christian family.

Camas Meadows Bible Camp-Part II
July 4-The first Camp started last Monday at Camas Meadows Bible Camp. This one was for Jr. High students. There is an e-mail Prayer Chain that is so vital to this Camp ministry. We are quickly aware if there is a need, be it physical, spiritual or emotional, and we get busy and pray -what a privilege!

This week Camp was small which is good for one-on-one interaction with the campers. Prayer was asked that the campers will be honest with themselves; will ask honest questions and gain progress in making their faith their very own; that they would go deeper in their relationship with the Lord.. And that the Lord would use the activities of the day to create ministry opportunities, especially as they share around the campfire.

Prayer is needed most of all as the campers return to their everyday life -- it's tough coming off a mountain top and then going home. The evil one is ready to prey on their new found faith in Jesus Christ; we must surround them with prayer.

The above are prayers that can be brought before the Throne for each camp this summer. Registration forms and Camp information is available on the Bulletin Board in the Narthex.

CAMAS MEADOWS SUMMER BIBLE CAMPS
June 27-
Camas Meadows Bible Camp is a non-denominational, non-profit Christian Camp located in the beautiful Cascade Mountains of Central Washington. It was established in 1973 to give people the opportunity to get away from the distractions of every day life and hear the Word of God. The unique mountain meadow surrounded by forest and mountains gives the Camp a wilderness atmosphere a world away from the nearest town. The setting is perfect for quiet reflection in a peaceful outdoor setting or intense activity in the meadow, forest, or Camp facilities. The Camp is operational year-round for fun in the snow and the sunshine. The rustic log cabins and lodges offer dorm-style accommodations for groups up to 85 people.

See the Bulletin Board for doctrinal statement, pictures, dates of Camps from Grades 4-6, Sr. High Camp for Grades 9-11, and the Discipleship Camp from ages 15-20. Also there are some applications for Camp available. Cost is $180 and scholarships are available. www.camasmeadows.org

Various Missionary Highlights
June 20-Pray
for the Ziskas in Vienna, Austria, with Greater Europe Mission (GEM). There will be a follow-up Cappuccino meeting for the ladies who attended the breakfast earlier. This will be June 26th. Pray that the Holy Spirit will work in the hearts of these ladies and through Brenda and the other leaders, as they further inquire about Christ.

Rejoice with John and Mel Bjorgen in Belize as they are going to have another girl! Mel is so thrilled as she is very close to her 3 sisters, and looks forward to young Evangeline having a sister. Pray for Mel as she adjusts to this new way of living, and John as he ministers to the men in the village. (See Bulletin Board for a June 16th update and prayer needs)

Long ago at Hillside, Bob and Dee Eldridge came to give a presentation on their ministry, Voice for Christ Ministries, located in Nenana, Alaska. The radio station, KIAM, celebrates 25 years this month. The Lord called Bob home May 11th, having served many decades in ministry in Alaska. The Word of the Lord is spread to the most remote villages in Alaska. Dan and Brandy Davenport, who now reside in Tacoma, spent many years there. Dan climbed those high high towers to maintain them; he also did some radio work. Their Church, Sunset Bible, is spending some time in Nenana this summer helping at the remote sites and the radio stations. Pray as God's Word travels the airwaves into the hearts of the Alaskan people. The Davenports are all going with the Sunset group. (See Bulletin Board).

A BIG "thank you" to everyone who contributed to the Quarts of Care gifts bags, monies for sending them, and helping in so many ways. The boxes containing 224 gift bags were taken up to Action International in Mountlake Terrace on Monday and in six weeks they will be distributing them to the street children in Manila. The folks at Action were so very thankful, and the man in charge in Manila sent an e-mail expressing his thanks also. Pray for these children, that they will see Christ in those who distribute these gift bags.

Three months ago when the horrendous earthquake hit Haiti, you contributed to give them some much-needed help. Thank you for your gifts of $945 that was distributed between Kids Alive & World Vision. The need is of course on-going for housing, health, food, water, protection from the rains, no doubt looting and violence in such depravity. Pray for their needs to be met, and that Christ will use this situation to draw the needy to Him.

Jim & Christy Edgell-Northwest Independent Church Extension (N.I.C.E.)
June 13-
Jim and Christy Edgell and their family of five (see Bulletin board for a picture) minister at Wiskah Community Church out of Hoquiam, WA. They are with Northwest Independent Church Extension (N.I.C.E.).

Good news is that Jim’s dad, John Edgell (he was the Pastor here for a number of years) and his wife, Margaret, have moved to Washington (not sure where presently). PTL! She had surgery in April and so they postponed their April move.

Jim and family had a great trip to Montana where they formerly ministered, and were able to attend the High School graduation and visit with friends. Jim and his two boys then went to East Montana to visit with his brother, John, and enjoyed some fishing; while Christy and the girls enjoyed swimming at the hotel pool in Missoula.

Sunday School and AWANA ministries are done as they head into Summer. They are so thankful for those who minister during the year.

Ander, Torin, and Gracie are finishing up home-schooling and Maddie and Morgan have 2 more weeks of Kindergarten in public school. They plan to home school all five children this coming year.

Their church has a website: www.wishkahchurch.org, and they have a website with family pictures:http://s234.photobucket.com/albums/ee116/Edgellcrew/ and the password is edgell7. Their e-mail is:edgellcrew@comcast.net. Lots of pictures and fun to see how much the children have grown: Ander-13; Torin-11; Gracie-8; Maddie & Morgan-7 (today).

Pray for them as they enjoy the Summer months, and also for John and Margaret as they adapt to their new home.


1 Million Reasons for Hope-Samaritans Purse
June 6-
Samaritan's Purse has reached a milestone in HIV/AIDS ministry. More than 1 million people worldwide have been reached through their Biblically-based education programs, which include basic facts about the disease, marital faithfulness, home care programs, reducing discrimination, and overcoming the fear of testing.
Martin is one of those million. His neighbors suspected he had HIV/AIDS after a severe case of tuberculosis and frequent bouts of malaria left his body frail and weak. Ignorance and fear caused them to shun Martin, leaving him isolated and alone.
Samaritan's Purse workers in Uganda found Martin hiding behind a mango tree when they came to his village to teach people about HIV/AIDS. "I sat away from the people, because they never wanted me to be near them," he said.
One of the workers talked to Martin about the disease and presented the Good News of Jesus Christ. "They talked to me at length about HIV and shared the love of Jesus," Martin said. "I received Christ as my personal Lord and Savior. It was a turning point in my life. Hope and peace were restored."
Please pray that millions more will come to know the grace and the truth of Jesus Christ—the only true source of hope in this world—as Samaritans Purse equips local Christians with the knowledge and resources to reach out to families and communities vulnerable to HIV/AIDS.


Slavic Gospel Association
May 30-
The Slavic Gospel Association monthly bulletin Insight has many interesting articles on the Christians across the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) that so touch ones heart. Here is Orphans Reborn out of St. Petersburg, Russia.

It might seem strange talking about a Christmas outreach in June, but the testimony is timeless. And the fruit will go on throughout the year!

In St. Petersburg, the Orphans Reborn led by Orlova held Christmas celebrations in five children's institutions, including a special center to correct behavioral problems in some children. At that center, there are 30 children and five instructors, and the team had the opportunity to speak seriously from their hearts. . .

The instructors have been attending our lessons as well. We see how they take in what we say. These are serious women who are considerably older than 50 years of age, and who have been raised in the atheistic spirit of communism. They sit and listen to us, and when something really touches their hearts, they smile and nod their heads in a sign of agreement. Christmas outreach is very special because it gives us more freedom than we would normally have to share. We spoke about the Savior and about the need for salvation and repentance. The Lord works in the hearts of people, and we saw that the instructors understood that not only the bad boys needed the Lord -- they needed Him too! Two 12-year-old boys sat before us during the lesson. At the end, one of them asked how he could be saved, followed by the second boy who also said, "I want to repent. What should we do?" We told them how they could pray. After telling this to the two boys, we told all the rest, including the instructors, how to repent and pray to the Lord.

At another center after the lesson, we gave each one of the teachers a large Bible. They were so happy! The kids received warm socks and a large block of chocolate. We gave funds to Valery, the director with whom we have been conversing and working for the last eight years, for him to purchase either footwear or clothing, depending on the needs of each child. We glory and praise the Lord in our hearts for everything that He is doing!

PRAY for this outreach and the many children who will come to the Lord in the Summer Camps!

John & Mel Bjorgen-Converge Worldwide/BGC
May 23-
"OH IT WAS SO BEAUTIFUL" -- that is what Mel Bjorgen, our Missionary in Belize, said when her friend, Shelly, accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior.

Mel met Shelly 2 1/2 yrs. ago; a shy, unsure woman with five children in a wooden shack. When the Bjorgens arrived in February, Mel invited her to Bible Study. Shelly had already planned to come, shared she was not a Christian; held back by the persecution Christians face in the village.

Shelly went with Mel on a Retreat last weekend and during Saturday morning devotions said: "I love the Lord, I read the Bible, I pray, but I am not a Christian." Fear of what the villagers would say kept her from giving herself to Christ. Mel knew she had to speak to her and prayed for boldness and a special time to talk to Shelly.

Shelly shared the depth of her dark past to Mel and felt she needed to be "good" before coming to Christ. Mel told her that no one is righteous and asked if she was ready to face the persecution in the village, ready to attend church again and she firmly said "yes.." She wanted to be baptized and Mel explained that baptism does not make you a believer. She told her she needed to accept God's free gift, to confess her sins, to believe that Christ died on the cross for her sins and rose again, to ask Him to come into her heart and cleanse her from her sins. Shelly said "Is that all?" She repeated the prayer stating all those things and Mel said she was a transformed woman and both were hugging and crying -- Praise the Lord!

Mel was God's tool in Shelly's life and seeds were planted; Shelly was ready and God chose Mel to help lead her to HIM.

That is why Mel and John Bjorgen have been called to Belize.

Pray for John as he visits Shelly's boyfriend in an attempt to reach out to him; Pray for Shelly for much strength in her new life in Christ.

Shared Hope International
May 16-
Linda Smith, Founder/President of Shared Hope, a ministry to girls who have been taken into sex-trafficking, has set up Villages of Hope throughout the world. These Villages are safe-houses for these very young girls, teaching them about the Lord Jesus Christ, a place for protection for their babies, learning how to be a mother, living a life free from sex-trafficking.

Linda states: Our nation and our world are finally beginning to understand the breadth and depth of the sex-trafficking issue -- finally showing a willingness to confront it. We see tremendous momentum on multiple fronts....

>Several states are considering child sex-slavery laws. In the State of Washington, we were able to help guide a bill -- increasing penalties for traffickers and buyers, protecting prostituted children -- from concept to passage in less than four months!

>Both Houses of the U.S. Congress are drafting legislation that will finally appropriate funds for restorative services for minor victims of human trafficking in America.

>I spoke in Dallas at the Crimes Against Women conference, which for the first time included a "Human Trafficking" track -- a great step in the right direction.

>I met with producers of a major television talk show, they're making sex-trafficking a major topic this year.

This is a wonderful wave of change: Linda shares that a young girl from her hometown of Vancouver, WA, was just hours from being snatched and disappearing into the abyss of sex slavery. Also having just returned from Jamaica, another young girl, after a near-fatal pregnancy, was brought into a Village of Hope in Montego Bay. More awareness lets people see the signs of this happening and protects these young girls

PRAY for this ministry and they can always use contributions as they enlarge their outreach.


Vladimir & Nadia Savich-Slavic Gospel Mission
May 9-
Vladimir and Nadia Savich of Slavic Gospel Mission, serve in Zviriv, Russia. They say they were richly blessed in the first quarter of 2010 with lots of different festive services and had different interesting programs for children at the kindergartens, schools and the church. Christmas is always special with children's outreaches which in turns bring in many family and community members to hear the Gospel.

They were so thankful they had the opportunity to conduct the regional pastor's conference at their church. They were able to share their experiences and made plans for further ministry in the area. Their prayer is that they can reach the teenagers through songs, showing Christian films but they need a video projector and screen which costs $800.

They conducted a Christmas action "Help widows and orphan": using finances collected by church members. They bought food sets and gave them to the destitute ones; it was a divine spark for them. They helped ten needy people and to help them with things they needed. (There are pictures of this ministry, and also children's ministry on our Missionary Bulletin Board.)

Vladimir's wife's health is improving and ask for prayer for her complete recovery. Also their son, Slavic, is much better. And they are looking forward to their son, Vladimir, getting married on July 17th.

We rejoice with them that four people have come to Christ, two desire baptism. He asks for prayer for this church to grow spiritually, and in number.

Voice of the Martyrs
May 2-
The Voice of the Martyrs serving with the Persecuted Church features a young woman, Esther, whose parents, Yang Xuan and Yang Caizhen, were arrested, convicted, and sent to prison for being very active in a non-registered church in Linfen, Shanxi province, China. On September 13, 2009, in the early morning hours, 400 Chinese officials and hired thugs stormed the grounds of the Linfen Fushan Church, destroying buildings and injuring more than 100 members.

Esther's mother was sentenced to two years at a re-education-through-labor camp where her job is to make cigarette lighters. She spends 15 hrs. a day doing that, also suffering from arthritis. Her father was sentenced to three and a half years, his whereabouts unknown.

VOM supports sending mail to these prisoners as it puts pressure on the authorities. Many articles have been written about the release of prisoners who have received mail. On the table in the Narthex are some postcards already addressed with a message written in Chinese to Esther's Mother. The message reads: Dear Yang Caizhen, We are praying for you, your family and the other prisoners. We are also praying for your release soon! Please know that we care about you very much. God has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." Hebrews 13:5. All you need do is to sign your name (in part or whole) to the card, put on a .98 stamp and drop it in the mailbox.

Esther has been strengthened by this happening and she says "I didn't have true faith (before my parents' arrest, I did not truly believe." "I had this faith before...but I found it is meaningful for me just recently."

The website www.prisoneralert.com has many other Linfen Church members you can send mail to.

John & Mel Bjorgen, John & Margaret Edgell, Howard & Jo-Ann Brant
April 25-John, Mel, and Evangeline Bjorgen
in Belize with Converge Worldwide/BGC, and now in Belize. Their comment was, "When there is no wind, we feel like taking our clothes off and going into a freezer." Pretty warm, huh! They are so excited to be there to minister at the Belize Mission and Retreat at Turtle Shores with short-term and long-term missionaries. Recently they were loading up their car and John went into their apartment for a moment and when he returned their laptop was taken. This is Belize they say. Also Mel is pregnant, due in October. So EVERYTHING is magnified with morning sickness, caring for Evangeline; she also cooks for those at the Mission. And she is terribly homesick but very determined to be in Belize. And when they get low, here comes a care package from their Arizona Church--so uplifting! Please be in much prayer for the Bjorgens.

Be in prayer for John and Margaret Edgell. John was our Pastor for a number of years and is presently living in Michigan. When he married Margaret she had been diagnosed with cancer shortly before their marriage. She has been doing pretty good but also had bad times. She was a Professor, doing her doctorate work, and they planned on moving out here in April. The cancer struck in full force and she recently had surgery. They still plan on being in this area in May. Pray for Margaret as she recovers from surgery, for total healing of this cancer, and for John.

If you are interested in seeing more of where the Bjorgens are serving, check out www.thebjorgens.net. Also there are Newsletters from the Ziskas, Brants, & Carol Magnusson on the table in the Narthex.

Also please be in prayer for these requests that we just received from Howard & Jo-Ann Brant with Serving in Mission:
Monday April 26th-
Howie will begin a leadership seminar for about 100 church workers from the Guragae church group in Ethiopia. Monday, May 3rd– Sudan and Kenya church leaders meeting in Nakuru, Kenya & Howie is starting to teach a course to West African missionaries on the book of Acts.

Howie & Jo-Ann Brant-Serving in Mission
April 18-
EASTER - Ethiopian Style 2010/2002 with the Brants in Ethiopia, with Serving Mission (SIM).

Howie and Jo-Ann Brant spent Easter in Ethiopia in 2010 but the Ethiopians follow their own calendar rooted in Egyptian and Geeze tradition, so there the year is 2002, to be exact Megabeet 26, 2002 (the date of Easter). Our Easter and theirs, fell on the same dates this year.

In the Ethiopian church they attend celebrations starting at 8:30 Saturday night and went through until 5:30 Easter Sunday morning. Our "all night" celebration was playful, emotive, serious, worshipful, and memorable.

The church was draped fabrics, four vases of fresh roses decorating the front, and candles were burning all around the building. Choirs got us singing, teens did mime dance to their music. There was a competitive Bible drill, film, prayers and lots of standing up. They nailed their confessed sins as well as heartaches to a cross. They shared the Lord's Supper. Howie gave a PowerPoint message; they had poetry presentations, impromptu getting up and sharing; eating Ethiopian food at midnight, and shared a huge Christmas bread (half the size of my dining room table and 5 in. thick) served with the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony.

About 1:30 a.m. a cool shower brought the temperature to about 60 degrees. Howie had a plastic egg hunt for the little ones, and the older ones shared the Resurrection story. Although there was a planned program everyone was free. A few teens even laid down and went to sleep on matresses on the floor. Great delight ensued as adults and kids formed conga lines that hived off in several directions at the same time, singing their hearts out Risen, Risen, Jesus is Risen from the Dead.

It was really an amazing evening. Here we are -- the only white people in a crowd of about 250 Ethiopians feeling right at home and loving every minute of it. It all happened because Jesus has risen and we serve the same living Lord!

Michael & Athena Kantartjis-Overseas Crusades-Athens, Greece
April 11-
Michael and Athena Kantartjis, in Athens, Greece, with Overseas Crusades, are missionaries who are devout Prayer Warriors. They spend time each day praying for us at Hillside. Their ministry is so far reaching, to leaders of their nation, to many Orthodox Priests who seek out Michael in his God-given wisdom, to a newspaper they put out often, to their family who are all ministering in some area in Athens. Let’s spend some time in prayer for them this week!

James 4:2 says, "You do not have, because you do not ask." As we ask, we must wait for an answer with a thankful heart. We must expect in peace that the Lord in His time will answer. We must not forget that first the Lord will answer the way He wants to answer. Secondly, He will sometimes answer in unusual ways. Thirdly, He will answer with new and unknown ways we never heard or seen before.

Here are a few testimonies quoted in Michael’s newsletter:

    “God who accepts and forgives everybody who asks His forgiveness and His salvation. He accepted me and made me His child.”

    “I praise the Lord who came in my life and delivered me from my sins. I praise Him, also, because He gives me power to forgive.”

    “The Lord is always good. When we are faithful to Him, He does not abandon us.”

    “I praise the Lord for helping me to come to our meetings and heard the Word of God.”

          “The Lord continues to be good to us. Praise His Name!”

CAMAS MEADOWS BIBLE CAMP ACTIVITIES
April 4-Time to gear up for Spring and Summer activities.
April 9-11
-- CamasCon Board Game Retreat hosts a bi-annual weekend retreat for Christian board gamers of the Pacific Northwest; a unique opportunity to explore this hobby with others who share a passion for gaming and faith in Christ. Contact Daryl at 509-548-6553 or e-mail scruffy@camasmeadows.org for more info.
May 14-16
-- Ladies Retreat meeting with women from all over the State and is characterized by transforming Christian fellowship and Biblical teaching. Rustic mountain setting with a wonderful welcome, relaxing time, and this year the speaker will be Christie Rayburn. Brochures are available in the Narthex. Any questions, ask Joyce Magnusson, or Kate Percival.
June 28-August 21
-- Summer Camps from 9-20 years of age hear the inspiring and challenging messages from the Bible, fun (games, paintball, swimming at Lake Chelan, etc.).
Sepember 24-26
--Rise! Men's Retreat is a spiritual replenishing weekend, low-key environment, less conference time and more opportunity to connect with God in his creation. Call Ken Matheis at 253-261-7326 (he attends Mt. Rainier Christian Center -- top of the hill by light).
*Camas Meadows is over Bluett Pass, about 17 mi. down the road before going to either Leavenworth or Cashmere. And up the Camas Creek Road about 7 mi., into the mountains. The name is from the beautiful Camas that blooms in Spring in the lovely meadows where elk roam in the early morning hours -- beautiful!

Bob & Katherine Rodgers- N.I.C.E.
April 25-
Changes! Finishing Well! New Beginnings! Adjustments! Concerns! Joy! These all sum up where Bob and Katherine Rodgers, with N.I.C.E., are presently.
Bob was extended a call to be the new Director of Northwest Independent Church Extension after Earl Brubaker resigned last September. After much prayer and counsel they believe God has led them to accept this call, taking place October 1, 2010. They will continue as Field Directors for WA and AK, and in their various ministries until then. They need specific PRAYER for their future living situation, moving out of their rental at the end of April. Katherine says that not knowing where you will be living in 1 1/2 months can cause concern but they know they serve a sovereign God who is in control of all things. And on April 10th, their daughter, Sarah Joy will be getting married. Andrew, their youngest son, is finishing up at Green River Community College and has applications in at 3 colleges.
PRAY for the above situations and PRAISE for helping Katherine's Mother who recently went through 4 mini strokes and a major stroke; Bob's dad who was in hospital but home again; for God's grace and kindness to them; and for the Lord's work in many of the churches and pastor's lives.

Vladimir & Nadia Savich-Slavic Gospel Association, Russia
March 21-
Glimpses into the life of Vladimir and Nadia Savich of the Slavic Gospel Association in Russia. Autumn is a very busy time of their life and the villagers do not attend church due to the need to harvest and store their food for the coming months. So if they don’t come to church, the church goes out, helping the elderly gather in the harvest. Pray to help to sow seeds and bear good fruit.

A 26 year old village woman, died which shook the village. Three days before she died, she repented. Praise God!! About 300 people attended the funeral and her father has prayed with Pastor Savich. Pray he comes to know the Lord as his personal Savior as well as many others who attended.

On Christmas we always walk from home to home congratulating people on Christmas. We pray for such evangelisms to be blessed.

Vladimir’s son pastors two churches and while he was in the US for some time, Vladimir helped with them.

Nadia is in severe pain from time to time, and the Prayer is that she will be healed.

Vladimir asks for Prayer for the ministry to be blessed and for him to have enough strength to carry on the ministry. See the Savich family picture on the Mission Bard.

Samaritan's Purse & Joe & Brenda Ziska with Greater Europe Missions
March 14-
The SAMARITAN’S PURSE REPORT for 2009 is incredible. Operation Christmas Child (Shoeboxes) had 8.2 million shoeboxes, added to others from UK, Canada, Germany, Australia, Ireland, Netherlands, Hong Kong, Finland, and Spain. Gifts were sent to 108 countries, and since 1993, over 77 million gifts have been given. And YOU have been a part of this ministry. Please know that with each Shoebox given, there is a gift of a New Testament in their own language. His Word is going out-Praise the Lord!

GREATER EUROPE MISSIONS in Vienna, Austria, Joe and Brenda Ziska are praising God that the new evangelistic circle in Klosterneuburg had 8 seekers for the first two meetings. PRAY for them as they meet on March 16th and that Mark 4 will speak to their hearts. Brenda and Vera have met with two women from “Cappuccino for the Soul” meetings– continue to pray. Also Martin, son of the first couple that came to the Lord when the Ziskas first began in Austria, was baptized.

Look at the Mission bulletin board for more information on the Operation Christmas Child ministry, and also the letter from Joe and Brenda.

Richard & Connie Smith-Cross Resources Inc.
February 28-
Richard and Connie Smith with Cross Resources, Inc., do Prayer Resolution Counseling. A number of you took their very intense Prayer Resolution Seminar early 2009 and benefitted greatly. The Smiths will be here once again in early March.

Richard suffered from cluster headaches which plague him (and did so for 4 months) and have now gone away. Connie also had health problems (“there’s nothing like getting old!”)

They have a praise in that their daughter, Teresa, got a new job which goes until July. Also they have had two large donations but not sufficient to pay salaries. They state: “It has always been people’s smaller gifts and prayers that have been the foundation of Cross Resources.”

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission-Vienna, Austria
February 21-These come from Joe and Brenda Ziska, with Greater Europe Mission (GEM) in Vienna, Austria.
PRAISE:
Feb. 9th started a new evangelistic Bible Study in Klosterneuberg; main couple asked to have study at their home because their 3 college-age children were interested in coming -- Praise the Lord -- all three came! PRAYER for the husband of a 2nd couple -- he came! Yeah!! Another gal came too, so there were 10 altogether! PRAISE: A woman who came to the "Cappuccino for the Soul" meeting invited Brenda and a co-worker to her house as she is searching for God!
PRAYER:
On Feb. 24 Brenda is meeting another woman from the Women's Breakfast meeting!
PRAISE:
A man wrote to Joe on Facebook and sent a greeting; they had a meeting at Starbucks, planning to get together in a month but he wants to meet sooner.
They said, “God just seems to be bringing people that are interested in spiritual things in contact with us. It's great! We can tell you've been praying."
Joe attends a meeting in Munich Feb. 18-19, meeting with the leaders of their Bible School from Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. PRAY for the plans they will be making to coordinate the 3 countries.
PRAISE:
On Feb. 28th Joe will be baptizing Martin, one that Joe dedicated as a baby -- PRAY that Martin will continue to grow in the Lord.

A copy of their entire letter is on the Missions Bulletin Board; also take a look at the Kagran homepage at: http://www.evangelikale-kagran.at/index.php and click on Actuelles. If you are fluent in German, you can read the page, but it has pictures also.

Slavice Gospel Association
January 24-
How many Yaroslav's have we met? Yaroslav was a young boy who attended a Summer Camp held in Volgograd on the bank of the Volga River (it's in Russia). Self-willed, self-confident, and very selfish, with no thought of helping friends in need or in their hardships. BUT the Lord had other plans for Yaroslav! On the third day of camp, he was trying to show off his agility. He wouldn't follow the rules of the group or listen to warnings, and eventually hurt his leg attempting a somersault. That put a damper on not only Yarolslav but the other campers as well. He agreed to stay until the camp was over.
God used this incident to teach all of the campers to be forgiving, respectful, and concerned for one another. Yaroslav could hardly move after his injury, and the kids who had suffered the consequences of his actions weren't real keen on giving him help or attention at first. Soon more began to bring him meals and helped him get around - even to the point of enjoying caring for him.
More importantly Yaroslav's attitude began to change; less self-willed and self-assertion, and more respect, gratitude and concern for others. He began asking serious questions on serious topics and at the end of camp had gained many friends -- beautiful character traits were beginning to surface in him.
Yaroslav does not yet attend church yet but his parents are friends with a church family. Pray for Yaroslav that he may come to know the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior. -Philippians 4:5
*From Slavic Gospel Association InSight, February, 2010 InSight is on the Missionary Bulletin board -- lots of stories on the youth in Russia

David & Phyllis Enns-World Team
January 17-
World Team missionaries, David and Phyllis Enns, spent a time of fun and fellowship with family and friends in the U.S. and Canada late in 2009. Upon returning to Singapore, they were faced with a move. God's provision of a car after their Camry bit the dust, and also a place to live in Singapore were a wonderful blessing. After their move, they headed to Papua to assist in a conference for church leaders they have been involved with for over 10 years. They saw God at work in the passion the brethren had for the Word, and the burning of fetishes.
Their new year gives them a sense of excitement yet feeling inadequate for the task ahead. They continue on with World Team, ministering to pastors and leaders in Papua; another to serve as advisors in the area of missions in Singapore mission.
While in Papua their grandson, Isaiah was hospitalized, so they left early to be with Leigh and Carissa. Pray for Leigh and Carissa as they settle into a new context in Aceh; Jason and Andrea as they continue to have a heart for missions and wisdom to serve the Lord where they are, and guidance for the future; and Maria as she pursues her nursing career.

Valen & Carol Straley-InterAct Ministries
January 10-
Valen and Carol Straley with InterAct Ministries, live in Kamloops, British Columbia, and both were brought up in Hillside Community Church. They say that the native church is doing well, growing in knowledge and caring for each other. Letting go of Valen and Carol and stretching their faith has been a real encouragement. Besides the native fellowship, Valen & Carol are a part of Kamloops Evangelical Free Church. Valen is an Elder while Carol helps with PowerPoint. On occasion Valen helps with carpentry jobs and Carol continues to paint with watercolors and be a part of the local art gallery.
Their children: Peter and Amy need jobs and they ask prayer that they find them soon. Ashley is on the honor roll in high school; Jake is in his first year of high school playing soccer, bass guitar and working toward being a life guard; Taylor is in gymnastics, soccer and is very creative. David and Alisha have jobs in Kelowna and are enjoying them. They just returned from a week in Mexico, and are almost finished with renovating their home. Their family picture is on the Mission Board.

Camas Meadows Bible Camp
January 3rd-
"Casting all our cares on Him, for He cares for us." I Peter 5:7
Snow abounds at Camas Meadows (and steep tubing hills) for a lot of Winter Events. For many many years Hillside Teens went on a Winter Weekend at Camas and had wonderful, and some not so wonderful times. Kristi Terrell is one that can tell you about the trips; Joyce Magnusson accompanied them for a number of years, and Gene Emry had many a BBQ up there during Summer Events.
Time changes focus and through the years additional activities are added: Big paintball tournaments, and more recently a CamasCon Retreat for Christian Gamers. This Fall nearly 40 gamers attended and were able to fellowship around a shared hobby and faith in Christ. For you Gamers, there was a 16-person Settlers of Catan Tournament won by a young man from Spokane . The Game auction raised $215 for the Hands and Feet Project Children's Home in Haiti. The speaker, Jon Johansen delivered powerful messages on trusting God, walking in purity, and leaving a legacy.
Next Retreat is April 9-11, 2010. www.camasmeadows.org/camascon Pray for: Winter Camp Season -- good snow and transformed lives; funds to sufficiently meet operational needs; wisdom and direction for the Board in planning the Camp's long-term financial stability.
Praises for: funding came in for Fireside Lodge remodel; two new and desperately needed inverters were donated; fire-reduction project by DNR has significantly reduced the fire danger and improved the views around the buildings.

Angel Tree- A Ministry of Prison Fellowship
December 27-
ANGEL TREE recipients want to extend their heartfelt thank you’s to all who  participated this year. We had only half of what we normally have but Headquarters changed things around. We had 11 children ranging from 4 years old to 13. You provided 22+ gifts and so much love to these precious children. One lady told me that her son will be out of prison next Christmas, has availed himself of schooling and getting an AA Degree. She also shared how blessed they have been with the Angel Tree gifts. Angel Tree works because of YOU!
We also sent 128 crocheted hats, and 18 various kinds of scarves to SOAR, a ministry to orphans in Russia. More Pennies From Heaven provided most of them, but some ladies did scarves too -- they will be much warmer due to your generosity. Thank you.

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission
December 13-
Exciting workings of the Lord pervade Joe and Brenda Ziska, David, and Daniel, in Vienna, Austria with Greater Europe Mission (GEM). The October Women’s breakfast meeting in Klosterneuburg went well with 215 women in attendance. Sixteen women indicated they were interested in a follow-up-meeting, Praise the Lord! One woman came to the Cappuccino meeting a week later and two more in November. The husband of one woman spoke with Joe; Joe shared about his cancer and he was impressed that Joe trusted God for each day and knew he would be going to heaven when he died. The man indicated he wanted to study one of the Gospels so Joe asks for prayer that he takes part in the discussions and becomes intrigued by the person of Jesus.
Joe and Brenda are looking to start a second monthly service in Klosterneuburg later on. First they have to build closer relationships. Pray they continue to find new people and bring them to the Lord.
The Ziskas have experienced major salary cuts in the last two months. If you are considering giving a special year-end-gift, it would be a big help in their finances (they realize too that every ministry is experiencing the same shortfall).
David, their eldest son, graduated from the University and did very well. Pray as he seeks work, as does Daniel, in a slow job market (sound familiar)?
Joe continues to do well and he and boys finished a strenuous fencing project this summer. Uphold the Ziskas in prayer. Pray for their financial needs and for Joe’s health-they are wonderful servants of the Lord!


Howie & JoAnn Brant-Serving in Mission
December 6-
"CRAZY FOR JESUS" -- that is how Howie and JoAnn Brant of Serving In Missions, in Nairobi, Kenya, describe Chinese missionaries that they have met. Actually, the Chinese said "I became 'crazy for Jesus.” Becoming a Christian in China is crazy as they face scandal, opposition,
misunderstanding and sometimes physical persecution. Yet throughout China there are now millions of "crazies" who love Jesus and are
growing in Him.

Seventy Chinese missionaries went to Pakistan (across the border), 30 of whom returned due to the harsh realities of missionary life in an Islamic culture. There is now training to get the proper orientation and training for those who go out of their homeland to adjust better.
Another "crazy" is that SIM would enter the remote and restrictive kingdom of Bhutan. Indian Hindus claim to have 300 million gods of their own!! Spiritual oppression is almost palpable under the influence of Buddhism that pervades the country. Four people are now committed to Bhutan and this small team believes that God will open a way.
The Brants spoke at an "All Women's Chinese Conference" talking
to 700 Chinese women about world missions. They also spoke in Korea from 4:30 a.m.-midnight over 20 times in 10 days. Pray for Howie and JoAnn for strength and wisdom, safety as they travel; for the
encouragement they give to struggling Christians in a very persecuted
world.
Howie writes "Crazy! You bet! Paul the Apostle was a "crazy" too! He told the Corinthians. We are fools (crazy) for Christ's sake!" Are you "crazy for Christ?

Ministry Gift Catalogues

November 29-Can't figure out what to get someone, who has everything, for Christmas? Take a look at the various Gift Catalogues on the table in the Narthex. You can give gifts of chickens, rabbits, sheep, goats up to much larger items to individuals or groups to help them become self-sufficient & food sufficient for a period of time; You can also help with health needs and water purification equipment -- so little can do so much. There presently are Samaritan's Purse, World Vision, and InterAct Ministries Gift Catalogues there, also World Concern would probably have a catalogue -- check online to see what is available. Children's Church children are giving toward some needs presently; ask your child what animals they have on their chart. Look outside the material wants this Christmas and give to help those in need. We are so blessed. Enjoy the blessing of giving this holiday season -- may the Lord bless you!

ANGEL TREE-Prison Fellowship
November 22
-Angel Tree, a Ministry of Prison Fellowship, to the children of incarcerated parents, is with us once again -- I think maybe 20-25 years Hillside has been doing this Ministry. The incarcerated parent fills out an application available at the Chaplain's office, indicates info on their children, and how to contact a caregiver. These forms go to the main office, then are distributed to the states in which the children reside. We ask for a number of children, find out from their caregivers what they want/need in the line of a toy, and clothing, not to exceed $20 for each gift. So each child receives two gifts, but you only buy for one child, another person will have the second gift Angel.
The Angels will be in the Narthex explaining what the child desires, you pick out which one you would like, purchase the gift, wrap it, return it to Church by Dec. 20th, with the top part of the Angel attached to the package. The gifts will be delivered before Christmas to the families. A booklet on Christmas is provided for each child, and we thank Lynn Johnson for her generous contribution of these books.
Also a tracking record will be paper-clipped to each Angel. Please fill out your name and phone number, in case it is misplaced, and leave it with Joyce, or put in the basket. We only have a few children this year so would appreciate if only one gift Angel be taken, so more get an opportunity to participate in this valuable Ministry.
The gifts are given to the children in the name of their parent, so there is a connection between the child and parent. Under no circumstance are you connected with the families of these children or the incarcerated parent unless you would choose to be. Questions -- ask Joyce Magnusson

Missionary Giving for the Holidays
November 15-
Here are some tips for sending gifts to a missionary that would get to them in time for Christmas.

    Cards and letters should be sent directly to the missionary's personal mailing address. (See p. 25-30 in 2009 Church Directory)

    Before sending a package outside the U.S. ask your missionary about the customs regulations in the country in which he/she is serving. Import fees often make it very expensive to receive packages in foreign countries.

    Monetary gifts should be sent to the "Sending Board" office i.e.,SIM, Overseas Crusade Intl., etc.

    For tax-deductible gifts to the ministry of the missionary, make your check payable to the "Sending Board" and indicate whose ministry your gift is for on a separate piece of paper. You will receive a tax-deductible receipt.

    For non-tax-deductible gifts, you may send a personal check, payable to the missionary. Please indicate that it is a personal Christmas gift. If you are an immediate family member of the missionary, please indicate that on your check, as well. Make checks payable to the missionary. These gifts do not qualify for tax-deductible receipts.

Monetary gifts should arrive by Thanksgiving if the missionary is to receive it by Christmas.


N.I.C.E. Updates
November 8-
In the N.I.C.E. Praise and Prayer letter, we note that Valley Bible Church, in Kooskia, ID, now has a pastor, Ron Harris and his wife, Anna, from Cottage Grove, OR. Terry Strunk and Lisa were there for many years, and are now in the Spokane area in secular work but still ministering for our Lord.
Bob and Katherine Rodgers, who were with us last Sunday, maintain an incredible traveling schedule while still caring for Katherine's Mother..
Roy and Elvia Sprague maintain a traveling schedule that is just mind-boggling -- WA, OR, CA -- hitting home on occasion.
Jim and Christy Edgell minister at Wishkah Valley Community Church, in Southwest, WA. They ask for prayer for wisdom in counseling, ministering in their community, and that they will be a reflection of Christ when dealing with difficult situations.
Pray for these families, for health, safety, God's guidance and wisdom in their ministries -- believe me, prayer makes a significant difference!

Howard & Jo Ann Brant-Serving in Mission
November 1-
How does one condense a six-page e-mail into a few sentences? Howie and Jo-Ann Brant with SIM (Serving In Mission) in Nairobi, Kenya, are in the midst of a 1 1/2 month trip to Pakistan, India, Bhutan with Jo-Ann joining him in the Philippines and Korea. They left September 30th and will return to Nairobi on November 16th, rest a bit and then Howie is off to Ethiopia.

They are visiting SIM missionaries in these various parts of the world, counseling, blessing them as they struggle in their lives to tell others of Jesus. They met with 25 "workers" in Lahore, Pakistan, who had come from England, Korea, China, Ethiopia, and the USA. Howie's goal is to instruct, encourage, bless and inspire these "workers" as they will be tired, burned out, discouraged, lonely -- all expecting something from the Lord.

Howie spoke to that particular group on October 1st but his plea throughout the six pages is that God would give him a special message to encourage all those he comes in contact with as they travel.

As you must know, some countries are not particularly friendly to Christians so their contacts must be discreet. Praise the Lord-- one Christian man who ministers in Bhutan (the only Buddhist Kingdom in the world) cannot be thrown out of his country for ministering but they may not share their faith openly and can only worship in their own home. Another PTL is that SIM has opened a recruiting office in North East India and they have another couple ready to go in and join him into Bhutan.

Today, November 1st, they leave Davao, Philippines, go to Incheon and Seoul, Korea, before heading back to Nairobi. Howie asks for prayer for the Lord to keep them strong as we "run for Jesus." Please be faithful in upholding all our missionaries in prayer: safety, health, people problems, strength, wisdom!

Vladimir & Nadia Savich-Slavic Gospel Association
October 25-Vladimir and Nadia Savich, with Slavic Gospel Association, minster in Zviriv, Ukraine. They give praise to the Lord for our continued prayers and support. They also praise God for the strength He grants and how He keeps blessing their work in His field at this hard time.
This Summer 25 young church members took on the task to rewrite some books from the Bible, and in doing so write out the words which they did not comprehend on a separate sheet and do a word study. Others in Christ agreed and started doing this with great enthusiasm. He states it is an odd way to do the work but he has noticed that they appreciate the work of their predecessors more and study the Scripture more thoroughly. At the end of this Summer they had a special copy of the Bible, written by hand. (Want to take this on?)
Ten people made a commitment to Christ but are not yet ready for baptism (this was where last year they had the first baptism in 70 years -- Praise the Lord!)
They need prayer for a new space to meet in Lutsk, so now they gather together in an apartment. Vladimir asks for prayer for him to be a "wise minister."

Richard & Connie Smith, Camas Meadows Bible Camp, Chris & Mel Bjorgen
October 18
-Word from Richard and Connie Smith, Prayer Resolution with Cross Resources, Inc., say they had a "vacation" -- something that doesn't occur often enough for them! They went on a 4-day cruise and also spent 4 weeks working with people on Prayer Resolution in Florida. They need wisdom as they look toward the coming year as to where to live. Currently they are counseling in Minnesota. Their granddaughter, Katianna returned from a mission trip to Ireland. She was blessed as other members of the team gave so that she could go. Richard has lab tests this month; continue to uphold him in prayer.

Camas Meadows Bible Camp relates some exciting decisions for the Lord during Camps this Summer, and Counselors tell of how the Lord worked through them, and in them, during Camp. On Nov. 6-8 they will have the third Fall CamasCon Retreat for Christian gamers. Every year it has grown as believers from around the Northwest come to Camas to share in fun, fellowship, and friendly competition of playing board games in a Christian atmosphere -- food is great and an opportunity to connect with other gamers. If you are interested the website is: www.camasmeadows.org/camascon.

From Chris and Mel Bjorgen and baby Evangeline we learn they are at 74% support trusting in the Lord for full support so they can be in Belize by January. This coming Summer there will be an increase in teams coming to the Belize Mission and Retreat and the Bjorgens presence is much-needed. PRAY that hearts will be touched for their ministry and they'll have full support soon.

Michael & Athena Kantartjis-Overseas Crusades
October 11-
Michael and Athena Kantartjis with Overseas Crusades, minister in their homeland of Athens, Greece. Michael's Prayer letters always abound with Praises to the Lord. He states: "Because we live in the end times, we need more than anything else to live in close fellowship and relationship with God. When we know God, we can be filled with His power, love, and life every day as a glorious, triumphant Christian.”

We need to:

    TALK as well as LISTEN to God. This is done through much prayer every day. This is the ONLY way we have the power to face and win over the pressures of the day.

    DEVOTE ourselves to prayer in order to know His will for our lives.

    WAIT on the Lord. This is the only way we can receive the truth from God about ourselves, the world, and the church.

    CONCENTRATE on prayer in order to receive faith from the Lord. Without this faith we cannot believe that "With God everything is possible."

    DISCIPLINE ourselves through prayer. In such prayer times we experience His presence and divine life to overflowing in our lives.

Michael has a newspaper which has brought many people to the Center where they meet three times a week. They hear the message of salvation through Jesus Christ, humble themselves, and ask the Lord to save them.
Uphold Michael and Athena in their work, the financial needs are great but in all things Michael gives praise to the Lord!


Carol Magnusson-Wycliffe Bible Translators

October 4-Carol Magnusson with Wycliffe Bible Translators in Jos, Nigeria, requested prayer as they go on Survey. The Survey Team of 4 left Jos on Friday, the 2nd, for a two hour drive to what is called the Koro Cluster (focusing on a language in that cluster called Nyenkpa). They plan to be in that area for about 12 days. John, a Nigerian Surveyor, will be leading the Team.
PRAY for wisdom for him as this is the first time he is leading a Survey. PRAY for health, safety, that her vehicle stays "healthy" (she is driving her own car), hospitality among the Nyenkpa, and people that will help obtain the information they need.
PRAISE and PRAYER for Erika (the other female Surveyor) returned Stateside two weeks. She needed more medical help than what was available in Nigeria. PRAY the doctors can diagnose what is wrong, giving them extra wisdom.


Valen & Carol Straley-InterAct Ministry

September 27-THE STRALEY NEWS comes from Valen and Carol Straley with InterAct Ministry, in Kamloops, British Columbia, with the Kamloops Native Church. Both Valen and Carol grew up at Hillside Community Church, and are teaching and reaching out to the Native Indians. He teaches in church and during Bible Study each week; Carol is challenged by the children that span from 5 to 18; and both spend much time on the phone and over coffee helping people through their troubles. "We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ." -Colossians 1:27-29
In early July we asked for prayer for Crystal Cote of the Kamloops Native Church as she was led to go with an "all white" group to Guatemala to minister for 10 days. Talk about stepping out of ones "comfort zone" she also prepared by taking a Spanish course and raised the finances to go. She was blessed and was able to touch many lives -- thank you for your prayers for Crystal.
Hot and dry summers mean many fires in BC; thankfully no lives were lost, very few houses, and the rain and wind have taken away the heavy smoke that lingered for several weeks.
Summer was a grand time of family reunions. On the McKenzie side there were 25 gathered in Wenatchee for a time of games, hiking, playing in the river, and enjoying Leavenworth. Then in August, Valen and Carol hosted the Straley family reunion with over 30 family members. Again they enjoyed games, and lots of visiting especially with cousins to renew friendships. Valen was able to dedicate two of the little ones to the Lord -- how precious!
The Kamloops Native Church is growing in spirit and this Fall they are sponsoring a Native Men's Retreat, and more outreach events. They praise the Lord for your prayers and support.

MISSION TIDBITS:
September 20-In Vienna, Austria, Brenda Ziska with Greater Europe Mission (GEM)
asks for prayer as there will be a follow-up group called "Cappuccino
for the Soul" on September 24. These ladies attended a large
Breakfast meeting in early June, and have expressed a further interest
in spiritual matters. PRAY IN THE LATE EVENING OF SEPTEMBER 23RD, WEDNESDAY for the Leaders and the interested ladies.

Roy and Elvia Sprague with N.I.C.E. (Northwest Independent Church
Extension) conducted four Vaction Bible Schools this Summer. Roy says "What God has planned for these boys and girls far exceeds anything we could imagine. I'm so glad I received as my Saviour in a VBS in 1940." The "Sprague Update" is on the Bulletin Board to see the faces of these beautiful children as they hear and learn of Jesus. PRAY for Roy and Elvia's always busy schedule as they travel
throughout the Pacific Northwest, and for their continued good health.

As David and Phyllis Enns prepared to return to Singapore, PRAY for
the Lord's guidance for them as they seek His will in the direction of
their lives in serving Him.

Carol Magnusson-Wycliffe Bible Translators
September 13-
“Power and light...that's electricity! (response needed)!”
That comes from Carol Magnusson, in Jos, Nigeria, with Wycliffe Bible Translators. Power is a very sporadic commodity and she needs input on an alternative power source. NEPA (Nigeria's electric company) rarely works consistently; she uses candles often; generator is OK but expensive and sometimes there are fuel shortages. Batteries are fine except they need recharging which needs an electric source which isn't dependable. Solar is great but not so good in the rainy season and rechargeable batteries need to be replaced every four years -- she is open to any suggestions!!
The Language Survey Team is finishing up the Obe cluster survery
report. Some questions they present to the people groups they visit
are: "Would you (Language X) allow your daughter to marry someone from Language Y? If not, why not?" Strange but the answers depend on how they interact with another language group. There have been cases when the Bible translation is complete, then they find out a particular group can not or will not read the Bible. Pray for Nationals to learn to do Survey work.
From Nov. 4-11th, Carol will be attending a workshop helping their
organization to deal with crises which may arise. She asks for Prayer
for those attending that they will learn well, be compassionate,
communicate, and apply what they learn to the situations around them.
Carol expresses her gratefulness to her many supporters. She is truly
blessed -- thank you!

Joe & Brenda Zisk-Greater Europe Mission

September 6-"Danke fur deine Gebete! Es ist ein ganz grosses Wunder!"…
"Thank you for your prayers! It's a great big MIRACLE!"
Joe and Brenda Ziska and Gabi and the Kagran Church in Austria, with Greater Europe Mission, sent this a few days ago.
First of all, we praise the Lord that Brenda came through surgery successfully on July 22, and is now fully healed.
They had asked us to pray that the Kindergarten (day-care center) be completed, inspected, AND approved in order to start August 31st.
Gabi asked Brenda to thank us for praying through a very "faith-stretching" time. Those are her words at the top of this Focus!
The officials were surprised that the facility was so lovely, considering the amount of money she had received in the grant. They went from room to room sayings words like "great" and "super." They loved that the children's bathroom was sized to the children; very modern; the kitchen was super. They made some suggestions but didn't mark down anything as bad -- very cooperative. Gabi knew people were praying. Meetings before had been very strained with the officials, but none of that was noticed during the
inspection. God went before them in every aspect. As the officials left they all wished her "Alles Gute!" -- all the best!
There will be a meeting on September 24th as a follow up for the ladies breakfast -- Cappuccino for the Soul - for those more interested in learning about our Lord. Then another breakfast in mid-October.
We will keep you updated on that. Pictures of the day-care center, before and after, are on the Mission Bulletin Board.

Shared Hope International
August 30-
Shared Hope International, an organization started by Linda Smith in Vancouver, WA many years ago is a growing ministry. Books could be filled with success examples of young, very young, girls exploited in sex trafficking throughout the world. Some parents, due to their poor conditions sell their daughters; others are drugged with a sweet tea and wake up thousands of miles away trapped in a nightmare of continuous sexual slavery. If they should somehow be able to return to their home, they are ostracized due to the life they have unavoidably been involved in.

Shared Hope is involved in freeing these girls from their slavery but also in prosecuting, protecting and preventing this thriving “business.” We at Hillside help in the support of this ministry and this assists in :

    Outreach workers continue to go to the streets, brothels, truck stops, and other places where the girls are being sold.

    Meeting personal needs-bottled water with their hotline number on the bottom, compact mirrors with the hotline number hidden inside the lid.

    Keeping hotlines manned, often with those who were slaves themselves

    Supporting drop-in centers where the girls can get medical care, and see it is possible to get free

    In both Jamaica and Fiji they are expanding vocational services so they can learn a trade, and help the 13 and 14 year old moms who still need mothering themselves.

Pray for this vital ministry. If you are interested further, check out www.sharedhope.org


Carol Magnusson-Wycliffe Bible Translators
August 16-
Carol Magnusson, with Wycliffe Bible Translators, in Jos, Nigeria, seems to have been keeping busy helping some of those who are having difficulty adjusting to their new lives in Jos. Her co-worker, Erika, has been having difficulty adjusting, came down with malaria, and with this rainy, cloudy season, appears to have SADD. A new young couple, Chris and Christy Winkler are struggling with adjustments and their 7-month old son, Judah, had a fluctuating 102-104 temp -- frightening here at home let alone in a foreign country.
The Team won't be going on another Survey trip until September due to the rain which makes the dirt roads very difficult and dangerous to navigate. Last week they had to go to another city to get fingerprinted. Not a too-friendly city either. About a half an hour out from the city they got a call saying the place was closed. Carol kept on going and when they got there, the place was open. They went through a lot of check points, and some wanted her to open her car trunk -- it doesn't open, so she had to convince them that she wasn't carrying anything they didn't want, and they let her go through; they returned to Jos by 2:30. Traveling during dusk and nighttime is very dangerous, so they have to plan their travel accordingly.
She said they had about 4 hours total of electricity from Monday to Friday one week, and is looking into getting solar power. It is very expensive, so she is busy looking into that possibility in the future. Pray for her co-workers, and for a reliable power source. The sun is up at 6:30 a.m. and goes down at 6:30 p.m. year around -- she uses a lot of candles!

Howard & Joanne Brant-Serving in Mission
August 2-
Leading a Bible Conference of 5!! Alice, a student of Howie Brant (Serving In Mission, Nairobi, Kenya), asked him if he would teach them. This was on the edge of Nairobi in a church with a single room in an unfinished apartment block in the slum area. A long extension cord brought power to the single light bulb which worked on occasion. The drive was an experience of its own; Howie took his 4-wheeler to get there. Normally a 20 minute drive, took one hour going and 1 1/2 hrs. on his return.
Alice sleeps on the floor of this building with vagrants wandering about, escaping physical harm. Expecting thirty students, they began with five: a pastor from Uganda; youth minister from Tanzania; two lady preachers; and Patrick who wants to be a world evangelist

Monday the carpenter was loudly banging; then the ziiinning of a skill saw, followed by a grinder; tentmaker cutting metal pipes; then loud singing and prayer as there was another church using the abandoned building as well.
In the middle of a lesson two women walked in off the street; one appeared to be drunk. All believers gathered and prayed, called to God to save them -- and He did!! A stranger walked in on the last day, sat down, and was looking for work. Asked if he was believer he said no; the plan of salvation was presented to him and he accepted Christ into his life!!
At the end, Alice said, "We need people to teach us the true Word of God." What a blessing! God called Howie to this group and he followed... do we? In the next number of months, Howie & Jo Ann travel to Pakistan, India, Bhutan, Philippines, Korea, and back to Angola -- before Christmas. Pray for them as they speak to the high and mighty, the poor and lowly.

POM & EYFC School Supply Ministry & Samaritans Purse Shoebox Ministry
August 2-School supplies are on sale in abundance now, and the need to help supply students is great!

Plateau Outreach Ministries along with the Enumclaw Youth and Family Services, is asking for donations in providing for more than 300 low-income students in our community. The following supplies will be collected until Aug. 13, and should be taken to the Enumclaw Youth Center (next to the Senior Center in Enumclaw): backpacks, calculators, binders, packs of paper, colored pencils, No. 2 plain yellow pencils, rulers, tissue boxes, packs of pens, glue bottles & sticks, crayons (16 count), watercolor markers (8 count), scissors, pencil sharpeners, packs of erasers, spiral notebooks, Mead composition notebooks, folders with pockets and dividers. Only new supplies please.

With all the school supply sales, think Operation Shoebox that we participate in every year. Items needed for Shoebox are: plain yellow pencils, sharpeners, crayons, erasers, notebooks that fit shoeboxes, ball point pens, T-shirts, small stuffed animals, washcloths, toothpaste, toothbrushes, bath-size bar soap, combs, individually wrapped hard candy, small toys, socks, mittens hats, etc. All new or in excellent condition. No liquids i.e., shampoo, lotion, glue or glue sticks. And don’t forget to save your shoeboxes. Put all supplies in the room next to the fireside room. Thank you!!

July 26-Missionary Updates
:

    Brenda Ziska, in Vienna, with Greater Europe Mission, had hernia surgery on July 22nd. PRAY for her healing, and for Joe, David, and Daniel.

    Crystal Cote, a member of the Fellowship that Valen and Carol Straley minister to in Kamloops, B.C, returns today from a 10-day short term mission trip in Guatemala. PRAY for her as she returns from a "spiritual" high, and reality hits; that she will be a continuing witness to those around her.

    David and Phyllis Enns with World Team in Singapore, are on leave until October 2 -- they ask for PRAYER that they will be ambassadors for Christ wherever they go.

    Michael and Athena Kantartjis were honored for their 42 1/2 years of ministry with Overseas Crusades, in Athens, Greece. PRAY for his continued strength and for his family as they minister through the Holy Spirit.

    Hillside’s Dominican Republic Team needs upholding in PRAYER as they help construct a building; Eva as she leads the children's Day Camp; for tolerance to the heat and humidity, and strength to do their work.

    John and Mel Bjorgen with Baptist General Conference, are at 70% support in reaching those in Belize. PRAY for the remaining 30% needed and God will give them specific direction in their ministry.

Hillside DR Mission Team
July 19-
For the Dominican Republic Team, some maybe are anticipating the "unknown" jitters, others are "experienced" at this, and we all wonder "how is Lucy going to do." The DR Mission Team departure is Friday, July 24th. PRAY that they get everything together, have a good night's sleep, and are well-rested for their long flight.
The Team will be working with KIDS ALIVE in Jarabacoa during construction work on an addition to Centro Educativo Vida. They will no doubt have interaction with many children, come to love them in a very short period of time, see the joy as they receive the many school supplies you all have given, and realize how much we have in our
lives. And that the Holy Spirit will work in their lives to live more fully for Him and serve Him.
Our Sunday School Children's Church Mission focus is KIDS ALIVE. The offering your child brings to Children's Church is sent to help with the needs of these children in the DR. Maybe some day some of your young children will be going to help there too!
PRAY for extra funds if needed by individual Team members; travel safety; Team cohesiveness; health; strength; interpersonal relationships; responsibility to their Leader 's; and God would be glorified.
Teams members are: Andy, Eva, & Lucy Means, Bill & Kyle Thomson, Thomas & Rachel Vaerewyck, Walter Hammermeister, Michael Vaerewyck, Kevor Duncan, Keiko Mizoguchi, and Paige Burhrle. PRAY for them & their families.

Valen & Carol Straley-InterAct Ministry in Kamloops, B.C.
July 12-
As we prepare to send a Team to the Dominican Republic on a short-term mission trip, there is an excitement that builds up when we are "sending our own." Valen and Carol Straley with InterAct Ministry in Kamloops, B.C., are experiencing that same excitement with CRYSTAL COTE, a woman who is part of their fellowship. Crystal is going to Guatemala on a summer-mission trip.

Crystal is taking a large step of faith as she leaves July 16th for 10 days. She will be going with strangers— a very big step for her. They will be working with missionaries who have schools for orphans, so they will be doing physical work on buildings and teaching the children however they can help. They will be moving around as needed.

Crystal has presently overcome a challenge in her life—that of smoking. Crystal, upon hearing about this trip, immediately went out and got her passport, took a Spanish class, and quit smoking.

PRAY that God will work mightily in her life as she sees another way of life; for her family; pray for her two teenage boys that do not know the Lord and that lives will be touched by her following the prompting of the Holy Spirit.

Voice of the Martyrs
July 5-
In the July, 2009, Voice of the Martyrs (VOM), here is a follow-up story. Marital Bliss for a Former Guerrilla - Maria was once a violent guerrilla soldier. She fought for the FARC -- Armed Revolutionary Forces of Colombia -- and believed God was dead. After running away from her Christian parents and joining the guerrillas, her leg was
blown off by a mine. Her comrades abandoned her, but when Christians rescued her she found the true, living God. VOM helped her get a new prosthetic leg. Now Maria works at a Christian radio station helping spread God's word to her former associates. In February, Maria married a believer.

NOTE: Hillside Seniors have made 33 parachutes to send to a Colombia pilot who flies into the jungles where the FARC is located. He drops these "chutes which have Bibles, shortwave radios, and Christian literature attached so the FARC have access to God's Word --this is "manna from heaven." See the Mission Bulletin Board to see more "follow-up" stories in VOM, and a sample of a parachute.


Ron & Bonnie Johnson-MGF & Michael & Athena Kantartjis-OC
June 28-
Ron and Bonnie Johnson (former pastor at Carbonado) currently with
Missionary Gospel Fellowship (MGF), minister at Fort Lewis. Bonnie was praising the Lord for the Protestant Women Of the Chapel (PWOC) ministry at Ft. Lewis. On March 21st Ann Graham Lotz spoke to a crowd of more than 800 women at an event Bonnie and PWOC friends helped plan and coordinate. PRAY that God will continue to work in the hearts of those who came.

Michael and Athena Kantartjis, in Athens, Greece, with Overseas
Crusades, had a special evangelistic meeting in a hotel. Many came
in spite of the weather and heard the Gospel of salvation by grace
through faith and repentance. The theme was "Repentance--the gift of
God." When the salvation invitation was given, thirty-five people
made a decision for Jesus Christ. The meeting ended in a time of
blessed fellowship.
In spite of many needs, Michael always gives praise to his Lord. PRAY
for the incredible ministry the Lord has given to Michael, Athena,
and their family.

Camas Meadows Bible Camp
June 21-
CAMAS MEADOWS BIBLE CAMP is ready for the Summer Camping Season to begin. Camps start at the end of June and they go through to August 17-22. Camps are:

    June 29-July 4 - Jr. High Teen Camp 1 for teens entering 7-8 Grade
    July 6-11 - Jr. High Teen Camp 2 for teens entering 7-8 Grade
    July 13-18 - Sr. High Teen Camp for teens entering 9-11 Grade
    July 27-Aug. 1 - Jr. A Camp for kids entering 4-6 Grade
    Aug 3-8 - Teen Discipleship Camp for Christian teens ages 14-19
    Aug 17-22 - Jr. B Camp for kids entering 4-6 Grade

This Camp is a non-denominational, non-profit Christian Camp located in the mountains of Central Washington (Leavenworth & Cashmere are the closest towns). It is located in a peaceful outdoor setting and operational year-round for fun in the sunshine and snow.
A Men's Retreat will be held Sep. 25-27. For Board Gamers, there is a Retreat Nov. 6-9. The website is: www.camasmeadows.org for Camp Registrations (dates have been extended for Campers), and other Camp activities. Camp information is available in the Narthex.

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission
June 14-
THIRTY YEARS serving the Lord in Vienna, Austria, with Greater Europe Mission leaves Joe and Brenda Ziska rejoicing! What tremendous changes in that time and they give the Lord all the praise and glory! We have been blessed at Hillside Community to be a part of their ministry for those many years. They celebrate 25 years of the Biblical Education on Location (training church leaders) and rejoice that over 1150 church leaders and lay people throughout Austria, Germany, and Switzerland have theological training.
The Klosterneuburg Women's Breakfasts continue to be well-attended with follow-up meetings called "Cappuccino for the Soul." On June 18 a group of ladies will meet with Brenda for this follow-up -- please pray on June 17th if you are awake at 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. for this group (that will be a.m. Vienna time). Specifically for Sylvia who thinks Brenda brings her "luck" while Brenda keeps pointing her to Christ. Pray for salvation for the other ladies too!
From March 29-April 5th over 56,500 people answered the invitation to come to Christ at the Pro Christ Crusade in 18 countries in Europe. Pray for follow-up work!
The Kagran Church now has a home, not the one they thought they would have when they were here, but even better -- AMAZING, GOD!!
Daniel, their son, has been hired part-time to work on the renovation of their new Church building. And Joe's PSA readings have remained under zero with the medication -- Praise the Lord!
Pictures are on the Missionary Board.

Richard & Connie Smith-Cross Resources Inc.
June 7-
Richard and Connie Smith with Cross Resources, Inc., Prayer Resolution Counseling, are both presently in Chandler, AZ. Connie was traveling in the U.S. while Richard stayed home, dealing with his cancer fight, and helping his daughter and granddaughter acquaint themselves with Prayer Resolution.
They have been blessed to have people who teach Prayer Resolution in the States and throughout the world. As Dan said at a meeting a number of months ago -- they are multiplying themselves. They have a family in a sensitive area of the world that is doing Prayer Resolution and training (and multiplying) many to teach others -- a fantastic blessing. Pray for them -- God knows who you are bringing before Him!
Cross Resources website is: www.cross-resources.org and for those who keep updated on Richard's cancer and also to promote the lifestyle changes he feels has helped him in his cancer fight, see www.keys-to-living.com.

N.I.C.E. - Northwest Independent Church Extension
May 31-
Bob and Katherine Rodgers Praise the Lord that her mother's brain tumor has shrunk from a golf ball-size to pea-size and she is able to do more by herself. Doctors have no explanation -- but we know!! Certainly answered prayer.

Praise the Lord - Mark Wilson has formally accepted the invitation to plant a church in DuPont, WA, through N.I.C.E. with the hope of beginning in the Fall of 2010; Bob Rodgers has been involved in this process with Bible Study in DuPont.

Don and Jody Wantland have been traveling every Sunday morning to do the worship service at Shelton Bible Church. Pray for God's provision of a Missionary Pastor for this Church; also safety and wisdom for Don and Jody.

David and Nancy Martin, Calvary Bible Church, in Manzanita, OR, have been having physical and health problems; uphold them in prayer.

Roy and Elvia Sprague always have a busy schedule. They will be
presenting five Vacation Bible School sessions throughout the Pacific
Northwest Area. Pray for their safety as they travel; health as they
mingle with so many children and adults; and strength (they are in
their 70's) -- lots of strength.

Valen & Carol Straley-InterAct Ministries
May 24-Valen and Carol Straley said Spring has finally come to Kamloops, B.C., where they serve with InterAct Ministries. Valen was privileged to have a child dedication last month. Many families hadn't done this with their older children, so it became a time of family dedication. People all gathered around each child and prayed for their salvation, growth, and walk in the Lord. It was a very moving time. We here at Hillside can come alongside and uphold them in PRAYER.
Bible Studies have been well-attended as they go through I Samuel with Valen teaching. The fellowship is growing with sometimes 50-60 people coming, especially on potluck Sunday! This July, Crystal Cote is taking a huge step of faith and will be going on a summer mission trip to Guatemala. She will be going with strangers and has trusted God to help her stop smoking -- she needs our PRAYERS!
Their son-in-law Peter, has completed his 16-month course of
airplane mechanics. He was honored with the title of Best All-Around Student" which thrilled and excited the whole family!. He is working at Heli-Jet in Vancouver, five days on, five days off -- not ideal -- again much PRAYER needed for Peter, Amy, and the 3 children.
Valen and Jake (grandson) ran together in a 5K race; 20 years
since Valen ran a race, and a first for Jake -- but they both enjoyed
the experience. See some pictures on the Mission Board, and ---PRAY!

Howie & Jo Ann Brant- Serving in Mission, Nairobi, Kenya
May 17-A letter from Howie Brant, in Nairobi, Kenya, with Serving in Mission, came May 7th. Howie and Getachew, an Ethiopian student who has a passion for the Somali people, left on May 8th to Issiolo for a conference with Boran Christian leaders. They expected about 70 of them from Northern Kenya and a few from Nairobi. They had three days of intense teaching, and now are divided into two groups for a week of evangelism among the Boran-speaking people.
Pray for Howie and Getachew as they evangelize these people; that they would clearly express the challenge of the Gospel -- not only to embrace it and be blessed by it, but be a blessing to others. That God would work a miracle in the lives of these peoples. Pray that God would use these people to evangelize their own who speak the same language as the Boran.
See the Missionary Board with more information on the Brants. Should you want the information/letters -- please free to take it -- they are for you.

David & Phyllis Enns-World Team in Singapore
May 10-David and Phyllis Enns with World Team in Singapore have wrapped up work with the new Area Director, Albert Ehmann. Now they are getting some much-needed rest. Their home has served as a guesthouse for workers coming through for medical, ministry break, and other needs.
This is a time of transition for Phyllis and David ending the
year very tired. Getting back to "normal" has been more difficult
than they imagined. They would like to make a decision regarding their future ministry by mid-May. Please pray that they would be sensitive to God's leading -- they continue to be drawn to Papua.
They had lost some dear friends recently and some with deep medical problems. A bright spot is that their deceased son's friend had wandered from the Lord, but is now back with Him -- Praise the Lord! Phyllis and David hold on to Jesus because He is the only One Who has the words of eternal life.

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER May 7, 2009

May 3-Shirley Dobson says "Our nation is in desperate need of intercession. Despite our sophisticated technology and military prowess, the crises facing our country have left our leaders perplexed and uncertain. Human answers fall short; we must look heavenward.
Scripture tells us nations rise and fall at God's command, and the hearts of rulers are in His hand. If healing is to come to our land, the Almighty's wisdom must be sought in humility, repentance, and supplication.
II Chronicles 7:14 “If my people, who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land."
The theme for this year is PRAYER--AMERICA'S HOPE based on Psalm 33:22 "May Your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in You." Although our present troubles may appear insurmountable, we can take heart in knowing that we serve a God of mercy, compassion, and power.
The insert in your bulletin will give you ideas on prayer; the Emry Chapel is now a lovely Prayer Room, and will be open all day Thursday. The setting is very comfortable for praying alone, or with a group, so avail yourselves of the Chapel, OR pray with whom, or wherever you desire.
The Focus for National Day of Prayer: Government, Military, Media, Business, Education, Church, and Family. Thursday, at noon, at the Enumclaw City Hall will be a time of Prayer -- a real joy to unite in prayer with the body of Christ. What does Prayer have to do with Missions? -- EVERYTHING! -- uphold your missionaries in much prayer.


Hillside Dominican Republic Missions Team

April 26-The Mission trip to the Dominican Republic is closing in and here are some notes on the trip. The Team is working with KIDS ALIVE and will be in Jarabacoa doing construction work on an addition to Centro Educativo Vida. They will be leaving Sea-Tac on July 24th and will return August 2nd; the Means' will extend a few days. Ready to go are: Andy, Eva, and Lucy Means, Bill and Kyle Thomson, Thomas and Rachel Vaerewyck, Walter Hammermeister, Michael Vaerewyck, Kevor Duncan, Keiko Mizoguchi, and Page Buehrle. Keep this list handy so you can be in prayer for them: all they
need to go on the trip, i.e., funds, passports; travel safety; Team cohesiveness; health; strength; and that God would be glorified in their lives through this Mission trip.
KIDS ALIVE is also the mission focus for Children's Church. The offering your child brings is sent to help with the needs of the children in the Domican Republic. Some SUPPLIES that are needed: crayons, colored markers, colored pencils, individual pencil sharpeners, scissors (kids and adults), colored construction paper, large staplers (and staples), and children's books in Spanish.

**Clip this, pray, and help purchase needed supplies.

John & Mel Bjorgen-Baptist General Conference
April 19-
Way back in October, 2008, we introduced our newest missionaries to you in our Mission Focus -- John and Mel Bjorgen, with Baptist General Conference Missions. Well, now there is another Bjorgen — Evangeline Rachel, born January 16, 2009, 6# 10 oz., 20" long. Due to the baby's heart rate dropping 4 times in 12 hours, the decision was to take her C-section. In their prayer letter the Bjorgen’s write: "The overwhelming love we had for her came in an instant. The following week was filled with sleepless nights and the trial and error of nursing. Soon though, the baby learned to nurse very well and is a champion eater and she is now on an awesome schedule. We actually get sleep! Praise the Lord for His protection!" (Pictures on the Mission Board).
The need for their presence in Gales Point, Belize, is great. They are a little more than halfway in their support level. August is their goal for being in Belize. Even in this down economy time they are assured God will provide for their needs to be met to get to His work in Belize. Be in continued prayer for them as they seek support.

Carol Magnusson- Wycliff Bible Translators
April 12-
Carol Magnusson, with Wycliffe Bible Translators, returned to her home in Jos, Nigeria (Africa), on Friday, April 3rd.  She will be gone for four years as the Language Survey program continues in Nigeria.
Returning home found some things needed doing immediately: she needed a stove, so a "loaner" is being used; car needed things done to it; electricity on only about 8 hours and that is late at night to about 8 a.m.  She hopes to eventually buy a generator, so at least the frig can remain constant, and will need a stove soon, too.  Please pray about these needs being met.
Carol asked for prayer on their upcoming survey starting April 14th. They will go to Cross River State down south and survey the Obe language.  Lots of spiritual opposition as a translation has already been attempted numerous times and failed due to unusual health problems with the missionaries.  Pray that God would have His way and that Satan would be bound, and be unable to stop the Christians in the area.  This is not a Muslim area, but rather Christian and African traditional religion.   Pray also for good health of all 7 going, no fear, strength, meeting with the right people in the right towns to get the correct information, good relations among the surveyors, that the Christians there would be encouraged, and we would glorify God through our lives and the work we are doing.

World Vision
April 5-WORLD VISION is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice.

They are motivated by their faith in Jesus Christ and serve alongside the poor and oppressed as a demonstration of God's unconditional love for all people. World Vision serves all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.

In Rwanda 14,000 children die in a day from hunger -- they have nothing to eat! A once exuberant-sounding home with children now is quiet as these children isolate themselves in desperate hunger.

You are acquainted with World Vision maybe through Vacation Bible School where the mission focus was on helping, or seeing Rebecca Lee helping you in choosing a child to support. Today a gift will be multiplied 8x providing life-saving Family Food Packs.

Be in much prayer for this area and the ministry of World Vision. See the Mission Board for more information.

Samaritan's Purse
March 29-From Samaritan’s Purse we hear of the peril of Darfur refugees in the Sudan:  The indictment of the President of Sudan has led the government of Sudan to expel over a dozen international aid organizations, putting at risk more than a million lives in this war-torn region.

Only by God’s grace has Samaritan’s Purse been allowed to stay in Darfur, where they already feed over 200,000 victims of the fighting. As the help runs out, Samaritan’s Purse resources are being stretched as they trust God to meet the overwhelming needs in the Name of Jesus Christ.

These people are in desperate need of food, water, medical care, and other emergency assistance. Many of these are widows with children.

Samaritan’s Purse asks for your prayers and support. The area is extremely difficult with bandits and rebels, scorching desert weather, and virtually unreached by the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Please uphold this life-changing ministry.


SOAR International Ministries-Kenai, AK
Mar. 22-
SOAR International Ministries, located in Kenai, AK, is a Christian Mission dedicated to service and outreach in Beslan, Russia. SOAR seeks the opportunity to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ by providing ministry teams and needed humanitarian aid. Teams minister through children’s camp programs, orphanage outreach ministry and remodel projects, Vacation Bible school, the “STUFF A STOCKING” project, BASKETS OF HOPE project, evangelistic meetings, and other ministries.

The knitting/crocheting group at Hillside, Enumclaw Senior Center knitting group and Pennies from Heaven provided/knitted scarves and hats for the SOAR winter mission trip to Russia. “Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness in giving these gifts which will be used in our ministry. May God bless you richly.”

Pray for SOAR as they minister in these many areas, and for finances as they’re currently readying BASKETS OF HOPE for Easter distribution. These baskets (I.e. baskets, tote bags, backpacks) contain warm clothes, fruit, sweets, toys, games, school and personal hygiene items. Most importantly each child receives a Russian children’s Bible. See the Mission bulletin board for more information on this ministry.
“...They will soar on wings like eagles…”
Isaiah 40:31

CAMAS MEADOWS BIBLE CAMP
March 15-
Camas Meadows Bible Camp has long-time ties with Hillside Community Church. Thirty-six years ago we helped build the Camp and have helped in various ways since then. Many campers have come to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior in those years -- Praise the Lord!
We are praising the Lord for a full schedule this Winter for Snow Camps; in the Summer of 2008 they had over 270 campers in the 7 Camps; they have Paintball Tournaments; a Gamers Retreat coming up April 3-5; the Camp is available for Men's, and Women's Retreats.
Coming up in May is the Camas Meadows Ladies Retreat on May 15-17 which is comprised of women from all around the State -- a neat time of making eternal friendships. Contact Kate Percival, 825-3165, or Joyce Magnusson, 825-1489, if you are interested.
Memorial Weekend is time well spent preparing the Camp for the Summer Campers, putting your work talents to use, and a time of fellowship. A new Board Member, Ken Mattheis of Enumclaw, also works with a men's ministry Bootcamp NW.
Camas is looking to getting electricity up to the Camp. Please pray for financial help in this area, and the general fund for running the Camp.
Camas Meadows Bible Camp is located 17 miles over Bluett Pass, then 7 miles up into the mountains. It was named for the magnificent wildflower, Blue Camas, and the meadows up there are covered with these lovely flowers. Take a drive in June to see this beauty.
For contact information: scruffy@camasmeadows.org, or their website: www.camasmeadows.org/jrhighwinterblast.php.

N.I.C.E Missionary Updates
March 8-
A note from Richard and Connie Smith, Cross Resources, Inc., said that his most recent tests on his cancer showed that the "holes had disappeared" in his bones and the oncologist is delighted with his progress. Now instead of quarterly check-ups, he is scheduled for every 6 months -- what a tremendous praise! Continue to uphold both Richard and Connie in their health and ministry of Prayer Resolution Counseling.
N.I.C.E. Leadership is busy traveling and ministering to many churches.
Roy and Elvia Sprague minister to a different church each week; pray for their safety and health.
Bob and Katherine Rodgers also are busy visiting many churches, and also Kathy is primary caretaker for her mother who suffers from terminal cancer; uphold them in their various responsibilities.
Terry and Lisa Strunk are in transition from Kooskia, ID, to Spokane. Pray for the sale or rent of their home in Kooskia so the family can be together.
During Christmas in the Ukraine and other nearby countries there was a Slavic Gospel Association-sponsored Immanuel's Child reaching out to 14,588 children. Two hundred sixty-two churches participated in nine countries. Six hundred forty children and 107 adults repented and 1,030 children started attending Sunday School -- what a tremendous praise!! Continue to pray for these children and adults as they grow and are being fed spiritually.
Pray for Carol Magnusson, Wycliffe Bible Translators, returning April 1, 2009, to Jos, Nigeria, for 4 years. Pray that she will be able to get everything she needs packed; finances are changing for the better; continued good health; and Language Survey will go well
 

Shared Hope International
March 1-
THANK YOU for all you've meant to the women and girls in the care of SHARED HOPE INTERNATIONAL this past year. Here is just a glimpse of what your generosity helped to accomplish this year.
*Celebrated 10 years of rescuing and restoring women and children liberated from sex slavery
*New Jamaica computer training center
*Expanded Fuji schools; increased capacity for mothers and babies
*Nationwide assessment of domestic minor sex trafficking focused on 10 U.S. areas
*Created training video and trained 2,000+ law enforcement officers, social service agents (already leading to pimp-trafficker-buyer prosecutions)
*Achieved first conviction for human trafficking in Jamaica, rescued a 13-year-old from her sellers.
...AND FOR 2009 more expansion of the above.
Please pray for Shared Hope and the lives of the young girls who have been saved from a horrible life at the hands of unscrupulous traffickers. Pray for the traffickers also.

Ricard & Connie Smith-Cross Resources
February 22-
Richard and Connie Smith with Cross Resources spent almost a month with Hillside in October-November, 2008. They taught and did a lot of Prayer Resolution Counseling while they were here. We were so blessed by their presence.
They received an offer (short sale) on their home and the sale went through on January 23rd. On the 20th they found an apartment and moved in on the 22nd--frantic work in a few days!!
Their daughter, Teresa, now has a job with the U.S. Census which enables her to handle living expenses. Richards' lab tests for his cancer were not terribly good after travel to Minnesota and Washington. So after being home and settling in, he is awaiting further tests and hopefully they have not regressed. Please pray for Richard. He has a website: www.keys-to-living.com which focuses on his health progress using natural ways of fighting his multiple myeloma bone cancer.
Pray for their transition into their apartment and as they start a new book on husband-wife issues. They are so thankful for your prayers and support.

Howie & Jo-Ann Brant- Serving in Mission (SIM)
February 15-
In November Howie and Jo-Ann Brant with Serving in Mission (SIM) spoke to us. They are back in Nairobi, Kenya, and sent us an update of their work.
They completed a three-week teaching assignment in Durami, Southern Ethiopia. Thirty-two students passed both classes; the students are back at their stations, preaching to hardened Muslims or tough Orthodox in Eastern Ethiopia.
They hiked up Mt. Mugo, leaving the car at 11,000 feet and walking over an hour to the summit. The group was small with a few chosen leaders. They gathered together to pray for the nations and sharing Scriptures. Mt. Mugo is an Islamic area so they went in small groups so as not to arouse suspicion by the Muslims. This is the Gurage area where they served 35 years ago.
There is much occult worship and practice and evil spirits. Many have been delivered and these spirits no longer have any control over them-- Praise the Lord!
On top of some of other nearby mountains there were between 75,000 and 100,000 believers assembled for prayer. They pray that Ethiopians will sense the call of the Lord to go to the nations of the world for whom they are now all praying.
Jo-Ann is back in Nairobi developing a program for "short-term" missionaries/teams who want to work in Sudan for 2 weeks up to 2 years. Howie is in Ghana, West Africa, where SIM is hosting a meeting for mission groups related to their churches.
They ask for prayer for their son Judson as he is trying to sell his house and find a job after serving in the military. Their letter with pictures is posted on the mission board in the Narthex.

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission (GEM)
Feb. 8-
Remember Joe and Brenda Ziska and their sons, David and Daniel with Greater Europe Mission (GEM), serving in Vienna, Austria. They were with us in November, 2008, speaking at our church service and to Women's Fellowship, and the seniors.
They left Seattle on Dec. 19th to Georgia spending Christmas with Joe's family eventually returning to Vienna Dec. 30th. They enjoyed picking up Sir Charles Mocha Ziska (their rabbit) and found he lets them hold him like a baby in their arms now as he did with his "babysitter."
Two days after returning home they were at a 2-day planning retreat with GEM. They had Bobby & Danielle, short term missionaries who were working with Teaching English as a Second Language with them. They desire to come back as career missionaries. Pray that Bobby and Danielle will have no trouble when they reapply for their visas.
The Kagran church is considering purchasing a facility to be used for worship and an outreach center. It is located in a very fast growing part of Vienna and the outreach is great. Praise God that the ownership of the facility is already in place. Pledges surpassed the goal by 6,000 Euros! Pray that the seller would accept their offer and pray for wisdom and the right open door as to the dual usage of the facility--pre-school or two-church option. Pray that the Lord would lay this vision on the hearts of those who can help.
Pray for the Klosterneuburg church. Their attendance had been down recently, but there have been some new attendees. Pray that the fellowship will continue to grow, and that they will find someone to help with the worship team
David finished his last test with an A; he now has to write the conclusion of his Bachelor*s thesis and present it before a commission. Both boys are looking for work. Daniel applied for a job at a museum, along with 4,000 others! Pray for them at this time!

Samaritan's Purse Shoebox Ministry
Feb. 1-
Have you ever wondered how your gift of a tube of toothpaste, or a bar of soap helps a child? Here is an excerpt from "A Samaritan's Purse Update" on the ripple-effect of your gift.
Kosovo has been out of the headline since 1999, when hundreds of thousands of refugees fled from a civil war. However, the need remains great with the land bearing many scars of the ethnic conflict and bloodshed. Jobs are scarce, medical services are limited, and many mothers are widowed.
Operation Christmas Child (Shoebox ministry) and Children's Heart Project has provided life-giving surgery for more than 140 precious children.
One child was Ardita born in 2005 with a serious heart defect, needing surgery that was not available in Kosovo. Ardita and her mother were flown to Illinois where they were cared for by a loving Christian family and a host church. By God's grace, pediatric cardiologists were able to repair the little girl's heart.
When Ardita returned home healthy, the whole village rejoiced. Local leaders invited Samaritan's Purse to bring in shoe box gifts for the children in the village. They also allowed the team to organize Christian "kids' clubs." Dozens have been attending these clubs and at least 17 children have prayed to receive God's gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.
This spring, Samaritan's Purse is planning to establish an agricultural cooperative in the village, as they continue to help new believers grow in their faith and sow the seeds for an even greater spiritual harvest.
Kosovo is now the first predominantly Muslim nation in Europe. Yet through the ministry of Samaritan's Purse to children, God is raising up a new generation of believers in this deeply troubled part of the world.
Thank you, and continue to fill those Shoeboxes.

World Concern
Jan. 18th-
Once again families in countries throughout the world have been blessed by the efforts of one of our church families. World Concern sends out gift catalogues toward the end of the year in which gifts can be purchased in memory of, or to honor loved ones. These are varied gifts, in that they help with the present time but keep on giving, hopefully for a lifetime.
Making cookies and decorating them is a family affair for this family, and visiting friends and relatives to contribute a monetary gift in exchange for the cookies is a goal for the two young children in the family...and a rather lofty goal: this year they collected $590.00!
So what were they able to do with the money they collected? Are you ready for this? Their $500 purchased: Twenty baby chicks and a chicken coop; 2 donkeys; 2,000 fingerlings (baby fish); 1 pig; 2 goats; a hand dug well that provides 20 families with clean water; a family orchard; and church resources/supplies! The children exceeded the goal they set by $90- is that faith in action or what?!
Many many families will benefit long term with these gifts.

David & Phyllis Enns-World Team, Singapore
Jan. 11th-
This week's Missionary focus is on David & Phyllis Enns with World Team in Singapore. In their recent prayer letter, David & Phyllis shared that they have experienced some very real pain both in their family and in their work during the past couple of months. However, they have found that the joy of Jesus comes in the midst of pain. In one specific situation when David agonized with God, wondering where He was, God revealed that He is not only there but that He is working in ways beyond what they could imagine. He CAN be trusted with what we hold most dear!
In August David's mother was called to heaven. In their celebration of her life and ministry, they realized what an extra-ordinary ordinary woman she had been. They were grateful for God's comfort and joy in knowing they will see her again!
In October, God added to their joy with the birth of Lazarus Piper Enns Miller, their newest grandchild.
The Enns anticipated transitioning from the Area Director role by September's end. Due to circumstances, David was asked to stay on until the end of the year; so, in a month's time, they will look forward to handing the responsibilities over to Alver Ehmann.
They are not yet sure exactly what their next ministry will be, but for some time they have been drawn to Indonesia and have now been invited to consider a ministry to pastors there. Before they make any decisions, they plan to take some time to rest. They look forward to a lighter schedule in Singapore through the first months of 2009.
Pray for David & Phyllis; that God would give them clear guidance
for their ministry as well as others in the family. Pray that God will continue to be their JOY in the midst of discouragement.

Michael & Athena Kantartjis-Overseas Crusades, Crusade International
January 4th-
Michael and Athena Kantartjis with Overseas Crusades, Crusade, Intl. in Athens, Greece, always send such uplifting letters each month. He says, "The more we give them more we are free from anxieties and depression. The more we offer ourselves to live for the Lord and serve Him, the more we are filled with joy and satisfaction. On the other hand, the power of the Holy Spirit who dwells in us helps us to have victory (I Corinthians 15:57), to overcome (Romans 8:37), and to triumph (2Corinthians 2:14) in very situation. Let us not forget that Jesus Christ brought love and power, the two virtues that are needed so much fo all of us."
Michael praises the Lord for a special meeting at their evangelistic center where 20 people made a decision for Christ. for the prayer breakfast spent in discussion of spiritual matters. Praise for their continuing ministry regardless of the very bad financial situation. While these are praises and blessings, they are also needs for prayer on an ongoing basis.

Carol Magnusson-Wycliffe Bible Translators

December 28-From Cameroon to Ethiopia to Nigeria, Carol Magnusson with Wycliffe Bible Translators will be settling back in Jos, Nigeria, as of the end of January, 2009, to continue with Language and Social Survey. Since being home (Enumclaw) she and her mom traveled for the month of June visiting relatives and friends to Texas, then two weddings and back home -- 7,000 mi. of travel!
In August she left for Texas to work at Wycliffe for 2 months; home again in November. Ahh, vacation time in Hawaii for 2 weeks SCUBA diving and snorkling in Kona, seeing God's incredible underwater creation. And now speaking to various Churches and groups and preparing to pack to go back to Jos.
Pray for financial concerns; safety for her travel; wisdom in her relationships. Carol has been on furlough since April, 2008

N.I.C.E. MISSIONARY TIDBITS:
December 21-Terry and Lisa STRUNK
are no longer in the ministry in Kooskia, ID.Terry lives in Spokane with Sarah and Aaron, working 7 days a week while Lisa is preparing the house in Kooskia for sale. A lot of traveling back and forth presently. Joe turned 21 in November and on track to be a Pedical doctor; Ellie married James Swearingen Dec. 20th; Lisa keeps busy with the Andrew and Abigail in AWANA.
Pray for: sale of the house; Ellie and James as they begin their lives together; Valley Bible Church in Kooskia in their search for a pastor; and financial and health care insurance needs
Roy and Elvia SPRAGUE had a lovely gathering of 21 in their family Thanksgiving. They conducted services of praise in November giving a message "An Attitude That Matches Our Message" -- do we live with an attitude of thanks-giving!
Pray concerning the outreach of the Gospel and planting of churches in the SW states. Also as they travel extensively pray for their safety, and always for good health.
David and Nancy MARTIN in Manzanita, OR, as he has had some health issues. Pray as the church has extended a call for an associate pastor, if accepted, should be there in mid-January. David has a wonderful ministry also to Summer Campers at Camas Meadows Bible Camp, in music and message.
Jim and Christy EDGELL in Wishkah, WA, as they have settled into their new ministry and their children have made school adjustments. A building is almost completed and they give praise to the Lord for all the help in that project.
Pray as they minister to the Wishkah community.

Vladimir & Nadia Savich-Slavic Gospel Association
Dec. 14-
We bring Vladimir and Nadia Savich and their two young children into our Mission Focus today. They are with the Slavic Gospel Association in Zviriv, Russia.
In their recent quarterly letter, Vladimir tells of a baptism in their village, the first one in 72 years. The whole village came out to see 5 brothers and sisters in Christ in the waters of baptism on a lake nearby. This was a testimony for the non Christian villagers who had never seen a real baptism before.
A summer camp was conducted for the children and was wonderful; brothers and sisters from the church gathered foodstuffs to help poor people. God had blessed them with a rich harvest and they shared with more than 200 people, most unchristian. They share the love of Christ and invite them to church. And Vladimir also took part in a camp for blind people and some accepted Christ! God helped them establish a church in Lutsk where many are blind. Vladimir conducts evening services there.
PRAY:
*  For those who accepted Christ as they take a lot of abuse for their faith
*  For evangelistic meetings to encourage wives to invite their husbands to church
*  For musical ministers in the new church in Lutsk

Vladimir and Nadia covet your prayers and thank you for your support.

John & Mel Bjorgen-Baptist General Conference
Dec. 7-
This week's Missionary focus is on John and Mel Bjorgen, with the Baptist General Conference.  We recently added this missionary couple to our missions budget.  They are presently getting support to go to Belize (Central America), in February, 2009.

John is the son of Kris Bjorgen, a former Associate Pastor here at HCC (then-Country Bible Church). He has a degree in the Information Systems Management and worked as a software and web designer for the past ten years.

Mel (Melissa) earned a degree in Theater Performance and worked as a Spanish teacher and a supply tech in the Air National Guard.

They went on a short-term mission to Belize and knew that is where God wanted them to serve long-term.  Their organizational and people skills will enlarge a ministry  center's impact in the community.  They will host teams from U.S. churches, providing them short-term ministry experience and challenging many young people to follow in their footsteps and serve in missions.

John and Mel are expecting their first Child January 7th.

Pray for John and Mel as they are much-needed in Belize as the other couple have left for health reasons and a constant presence is needed to maintain the ministry.  They are at around 40 % support level, so pray for their finances.

Their picture will be posted on a Missionary Board that will be up in the near future.
 

Prayer for Missionaries
Nov. 30-Our church designates 10% of the budget for Missions. Currently we are helping to support nine overseas Missionaries and six state side...including Plateau Outreach Ministries.
We have had the privilege of having four of our Missionaries with us this fall. Soon we will be able to hear from Carol Magnusson who serves with Wycliffe Bible Translators in Nigeria, Africa.
Our church has been faithful to financially support these Missionaries as they devote their lives to serving the Lord. But aside from the need for financial help, our prayers are a vital resource for these Missionaries. No Christian worker can "go it alone". They need to know that when they are serving the Lord at home or abroad, there are people constantly holding them up in prayer.
It takes discipline and commitment to pray for people who live and work in a place and cultures that we know very little about. We may not be able to relate to their lives or fully understand the sacrifices that they have made to be obedient to the call of God, but we know that God calls us to pray for and love one another.
You can open up your bulletin each week to find this missionary focus. And although it may be interesting to read the updates, the primary purpose of this focus is prayer. God may not have called you to serve Him in the four corners of the earth, but He does call you to "Devote yourselves to prayer" Col 4:2 and to "pray without ceasing" I Tim. 5:17. Our Missionaries need this kind of prayer; that they may be encouraged, strengthened and renewed in their service to God. Remember that *.The effective prayer of a righteous person can accomplish much.* James 5:16

Angel Tree-A Ministry of Prison Fellowship

Nov. 23-When a child's parents is in prison, Christmas can sometimes be very lonely for the child, and for the incarcerated parent.  In the 1980's, a woman in prison hoarded little toiletry items so she could have something to give to her children at Christmas.  This was the beginning of Angel Tree, now a ministry of Prison Fellowship.  Now over 600,000 children receive gifts in the name of the parent for Christmas.  Hillside Community ahs been a part of this ministry for 20 or so years.

The incarcerated parent fills out an application form with the prison chaplain; the forms are sent to Prison Fellowship headquarters who in turn, distribute the forms in the location where the children reside.  The parent/guardian is called to find out what the child(ren) would like in the line of a toy, and some clothing.  We are asked to try to keep the cost at $20 or less.  Angels are made up and the congregants make a choice of who they would like to purchase a gift for.  They will then buy the gift, wrap it, and return to church by Sunday, December 21st. 

So, if you haven't already taken an Angel, please choose one, sign your name on the pink or blue card, and put it in the basket.  The Angel has all the information you need to purchase the gift.  When you wrap it, remove the base of the Angel and the sticky back on the Angel and put it on your package.

The gifts will be brought back to church and put by the Christmas tree, and on the week before Christmas will be delivered to the families.  YOU will have been a tremendous blessing in the lives of these precious children.  Contact Joyce Magnusson with questions.


Holiday Outreach
November 16-
This Sunday we will be dedicating the Christmas Shoe Boxes which so many of you have helped fill to overflowing. Through the tireless, dedicated, organized efforts of Shirley Mead through the Holy Spirit, many children in abject poverty will have a time of joy in their lives when they receive these boxes through Samaritan's Purse. Thank you for all your help and gifts.
Christmas Gift catalogues are arriving. These gifts range from small amounts to large; from purchasing chickens to helping set up villages. You can even purchase a gift in the name of someone who is difficulte to buy for on your Christmas list.. Below are just a few organizations that have catalogue ministries:
World Vision worldvisiongifts.org 1-888-511-6511
Wycliffe wycliffe.org/Donate.aspx 1-866-736-4387
Samaritan's Purse samaritanspurse.org 1-800-353-5957
What is given here has a life-changing effect on the recipients of your gifts.

Valen & Carol Straley-InterAct Ministries
November 9-
For the past three weeks we have been privileged to have our Missionaries speak during our worship service--what a blessing! We've had Howie and Jo-Ann Brant with Serving in Mission, in Sudan; Richard & Connie Smith with Cross Ministries, in Prayer Resolution; and Joe and Brenda Ziska with Greater Europe Mission, serving in Vienna, Austria. What a broad spectrum in serving our Lord!
Today, we are blessed to have Valen and Carol Straley- home-grown missionaries* serving with InterAct Ministries with the Native Indians in Kamloops, British Columbia. Valen's sister, Phyllis Enns and her husband David, are also missionaries with World Team.
Valen and Carol have challenging work and have definitely been called to work in this area. They give of their time in preaching, teaching, camps, seminars, playing baseball, and gifted artistic work.
We trust that these dedicated missionaries have given you a place for missions in your heart. Each one has given us prayer requests and our Lord wants these to be brought before Him earnestly.

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission (GEM)
November 2-
We are so pleased to have Joe & Brenda Ziska with us today. They have been with us since they went to Vienna, Austria in 1979, with Greater Europe Mission (GEM). They have two sons, David and Daniel, who are in their early 20's.
Their work has been involved in church-planting but also are involved with BAO (Biblical Education on Location), a church-based training program developed by an Austrian with Joe as one of the founders and chairman of the board as well as head of the curriculum committee. Joe also helped found the Evangelikale Akademie (EVAK), the only Bible school for training Austrian pastors and Christian leaders now in Austria.
While they are here visiting, they have been blessed with a nice home on Lake Margaret in Duvall, and a car for the entire time they will be in Washington and Canada They will be returning to Vienna on Dec. 29th and being reunited with Sir Charles Mocha Ziska, their pet rabbit.
Please pray for Joe's health--a spot of cancer was found on a lumbar vertebrae; Praise the Lord his PSA remains at 0.05! Pray for finances as they need a few hundred dollars more a month. Also, on Oct, 11th a women's breakfast was held in Klosterneuburg; prayer is asked for many to come to the follow-up activities.
We are so thankful they can be with us, and know they will share much more of their ministry.

MISSIONARY MAIL-The how-to's of holiday giving
Here is general information on sending special holiday cheer to your missionary friends around the world. Here's how:

. Cards and letters should be sent directly to the missionary's personal mailing address.

.*Before sending a package outside the U.S., ask your missionary about the customs regulations in the country in which he or she is serving. Import fees often make it very expensive to receive packages in foreign countries.

.*MONETARY GIFTS should be sent to the missionary's Sending Board, i.e., SIM, OC, Wycliffe, (look in the Church Directory's Missionaries section and the Sending Boards are under the missionary's name.

.*For TAX-DEDUCTIBLE GIFTS to the ministry of your particular missionary, please make your check payable to the Sending Board and indicate whose ministry your gift is for on a SEPARATE PIECE OF PAPER. You will receive a tax-deductible receipt.

.*For NON-TAX-DEDUCTIBLE GIFTS, you may send a personal check, payable to the missionary. Please indicate that it is a PERSONAL CHRISTMAS GIFT. If you are an IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBER of the missionary, please indicate that on your check as well. Make checks payable to the missionary.

.*These gifts DO NOT qualify for tax-deductible receipts. Monetary gifts MUST arrive by mid-November if the missionary is to receive the gift by Christmas.

Howard & Jo-Ann Brant-Serving in Mission (SIM)
October 19-
Today we welcome Howard (Howie) and Jo-Ann Brant, with SIM (Serving in Mission). They have been missionaries with Hillside Community for the 38 years they have been serving the Lord. Their ministry started at Bonney Lake Community Church although Howie's parents were missionaries also. They spent many years in Ethiopia and still have very strong connections there.
Recently they have been in Kenya, with Jo-Ann directing SIM's ministry into Sudan, and Howie has used Nairobi as a base to encourage emerging missions and their missionaries as they prepare for global missions.
Howie and Jo-Ann will be going to Ethiopia to teach in a missionary training school in early 2009. Later next year they both will be in the Philippines teaching at a school which trains people from Mainland China.
They are so thankful for the health and energy God has provided them as they turn into official Senior Citizens within the next few months. Praise abounds as they moved into a fully furnished home, full cupboards too. We are so pleased to have them with us.

PRAYER SUMMIT-October 17-19, 2008
October 12-
This Prayer Event is hosted by the National Day of Prayer Task Force. The Prayer Summit is being held this year just a few days before our National and Local elections.
     As we look over our country, we see a land in need of the Savior, Jesus Christ. Join with all believers to pray and intercede for this critical hour in which we live.
     There are 7 centers of prayer: government, military, media, business, education, church, and family. One might zero in on two of those prayer centers a day and come before His throne in intercession.
     The National Day of Prayer Task Force, in accordance with Bible truth, seeks to:  Foster unity within the Christian Church; protect America's Constitutional Freedoms to gather, worship, pray, and speak freely; publicize and preserve America's Christian heritage; encourage and emphasize prayer regardless of current issues and positions; respect all people regardless of denomination or creed;. be wise stewards of God's resources and provision and glorify the Lord in word and deed. In your small groups, gathering of friends, times of fellowship -- seek the Lord in prayer for the above list.
'...the effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much."  -James 5:16b (NASB)

Richard & Connie Smith-Cross Resources
October 5-
This week's Missionary focus is on Richard & Connie Smith with Cross Resources. Richard & Connie will be here at Hillside doing the Prayer Resolution workshop that begins this Thursday. Richard & Connie were missionaries for thirty years in South America, Africa and Europe. They worked for many years with Wycliffe Bible Translators. During their time as translators they discovered the need for healing the past on a spiritual level. The workshop they will be conducting teaches you the tools they have discovered through scripture that help people heal from their past and move on in the walk with their Heavenly Father.
Uphold the Smith's in prayer as they prepare for the counseling workshop this week. Pray for all those who will be attending and for those who are helping to organize it. Pray that all Richard & Connie's financial needs would be met and that scholarships will be provided for those in need that would like to attend.

Michael & Athena Kantartjis-Overseas Crusades Intl.

September 28-Michael and Athena Kantartjis, with Overseas Crusades, Intl., have been a part of Hillside's Mission focus for over 30 years. Michael was educated in Boston, and returned to his homeland, Greece. The ministry has grown tremendously over the years such that Michael is used of the Lord in the lives of many spiritual leaders in Athens. He is a man of God who constantly gives praise to Him for everything. In the Summer, Athens residents go to the sea and other places because of the very warm weather. Most ministries shut down and close for 2-3 months; but Michael's continues and is well-attended. He gives praise to the Lord that their newspaper was sent out recently. Many have come to the Lord through this medium. He gives praise that all aspects of their ministry continue inspite of the very bad financial situation of the ministry. Pray for Michael, Athena, and their family who are all involved in this marvelous ministry. Also pray for their serious financial situation -- he goes totally on faith.

Northwest Independent Church Extension (NICE) Missionary Update

September 21-In this week's Missionary focus, we are catching up with some of our N.I.C.E. (Northwest Independent Church Extension) missionaries, here's the latest:
Katherine Rodgers, wife of Bob Rodgers, was given a gift for a Sky Diving jump, and she did it on her 50th Birthday! Her son said "Jumping out of a perfectly good airplane just doesn't make sense." But harnessed to her instructor, and at 14,000' --she dove out anyway. Photos and DVD to prove it too!!
David and Nancy Martin, in Manzanita, OR, need prayer as David is battling muscle cramping, burning and heart palpitations. He is scheduled to see a specialist. The Church is also in need of prayer while they are seeking an Associate Pastor
Roy and Elvia Sprague praise the Lord for the dedication of a new building of Evergreen Bible Church, in Vancouver, WA.
On October 6-8th, NICE will be celebrating 50 years with a Conference at Camp Berachah in Auburn. Pray for all the myriad of details of this Conference; safety for travel of all attendees to and from; health; and a marvelous time of fellowship and celebration. Hillside Community Church is a member of NICE.

Vladimir & Nadia Savich-Slavic Gospel Association
September 14-
Last week we featured Tanya in our Mission focus and the heartbreak of living for Christ, yet her faith remains undaunted. Today we feature Vladimir and Nadia Savich with Slavic Gospel Association. They live and minister in Zviriv, Ukraine-- where is that? It is in far Eastern Europe; West is Poland, Southwest is Romania, North is Belarus, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia; East is the Russian Federation.
Vladimir says that "there are people who come to the Lord, repent and get joy, forgiveness and salvation. In spite of the features and indifference, especially of the villagers to God's Word, there are people who answer the Lord's call."
They had a baptism of seven people on August 3rd-- Praise the Lord! The Sunday school is growing in number. The plans for a summer camp came to having it at their church due to the expense involved.
The Golgotha church feels blessed to have an outreach that ministers to the rehab center for alcoholics, a ministry to the blind, and a children's ministry.
Vladimir's daughter, Olga, was married in July. He asks for prayer for his family and his health as he has bad pain in his back at times. There are pictures of this ministry on the bulletin board in the hall by the office. Please avail yourselves of these precious Christians.

Slavic Gospel Association
September 7-
While we often receive joyous reports and testimonies from SGA sponsored Orphans Reborn workers across the lands of Russia, we also hear stories that break our hearts from time to time. Tanya's story is no exception- and is yet more evidence of how important your support for the Orphans Reborn ministry truly is.
     According to Dima Nachina, one of our Orphans Reborn coordinators in Belarus, 14- year old Tanya began coming to Bible studies about six months ago. "At first, her teachers thought it was just another hobby for Tanya, but they were mistaken. Tanya's interest was sincere. Since beginning with us, she has never missed a class except when her teachers did not allow her to come.
     On a recent Saturday, Tanya came up to me and asked us to pray for her and for her teachers. She told me that they had lately been very angry toward her, and forbade her from coming to the Bible classes. Even other children began to laugh at her for her faith. Tanya is like a sheep among wolves. But the main thing is that Tanya remains in good cheer, and in spite of everything, continues to come to our classes."
     Dima asks that we not only pray for Tanya, but also for the teachers and the other students, that their hearts might be softened toward Tanya and the Gospel. -Reprinted from SGA Insight Aug. 2008

Richard & Connie Smith-Cross Resources

August 31-This week's Missionary focus is on Richard & Connie Smith with Cross Resources.  The Smiths' will be with us for a few weeks in October to give their Seminar on Prayer Resolution.  This is a tremendous blessing.  If you are interested, there are brochures in the Narthex to look over-- please avail yourself of this tremendous opportunity.  Can you believe, their oldest granddaughter, Haven, was recently married?  Her dad is Eric, the Smith's oldest child.  And then their granddaughter, Teresa's daughter, Katianna, just returned from two weeks in Costa Rica on a church mission--wow, for us who saw her as a baby, it seems just yesterday! Pray for Richard and Connie as they will be traveling to Arizona (from Florida); selling their house in AZ; doing Prayer Resolution in Minneapolis until the Seminar here-- on the road until November.  Pray for safety as they travel so much; for the sale of their house; and for finances.  They are ever so grateful for our support.

Persecuted Chinese Christians
August 24
-STAND WITH ANNA and other persecuted Chinese Christians during the Olympics! Anna is a sweet, 11-year old orphan girl with a gentle spirit. Also, she is a persecuted Christian. On Christmas Eve she was huddled together with other orphan children in an unheated apartment They were reading their Bibles when they heard pounding at the door. Their landlord, under severe pressure from the Chinese police, forced the children from their home and out into the cold. Their Christian gathering and orphanage were illegal. Anna was also refused admission to the local school.
Well-meaning Christian leaders in America state that there is no more persecution in China, and "illegal" Christian activity should cease. Anna would disagree. Hopefully you do as well. Today Anna lives at a secret location and attends an illegal underground Christian school. She remains hopeful. She recently told VOICE OF THE MARTYRS workers, "I think God must really love me. He has taken such good care of me."
The leader of a large group of house churches in China, who is affectionately known as Pastor Bike, recently made a plea to Christians throughout the free world. He asked caring believers to remember them particularly during the summer Olympics (ending today, the 24th). Your prayers during these days of the Olympic Games are so needed and appreciated by these persecuted Christians -- continue to do so.


Jim & Christy Edgell- N.I.C.E.

August 17-
News from The Edgell's, NICE missionaries, is sad and yet exciting. Their stay in Denton, MT, was extended by a week due to a horrible car accident. Six high school guys were going to Lewistown for a basketball tournament when the driver lost control, went off the road, and flipped over. Three boys died on the scene. Jim responded to the scene with the Denton Fire Dept.; very difficult as he knew the boys fairly well and had coached three of them in track.
Jim had the privilege of presiding over the funeral for the boys with about 1500 in attendance, and even though they are now residing in Wishkah (Aberdeen), they are keeping in touch to help the families in their time of sorrow and grieving.
Their house sold in Denton and they found a place to rent in Wishkah with help in loading and unloading the U-Haul. They are so very thankful and have so much to give praise to the Lord.
Please uphold the families in Denton in their losses; as the Edgells minister in their new Church; and as they prepare for the Fall ministry.
Jim and Christy grew up at Hillside and have five children: Ander, Torin, Alayna, Morgan, and Madison.

Beijing, China & the Olympic Games
August-10
The Olympic Games have started in Beijing, China, this past week. Here is an excerpt from "China's Illegal Christians", written by Lyn Edmunds, and printed in The Voice of the Martyrs August, 2008 Newsletter.
One in Spirit
"In the Bible, Saul's son, Jonathan, was a true friend and brother to David and came to him in the face of persecution. As the Olympics approach, much of the media shows a polished, public image of China declaring that Chinese people have religious freedom. Yet, in the shadow of the Olympic Games are our suffering brothers and sisters. Chinese Christians love their country and feel the Olympics will be a crucial crossroads for the future of Christianity in China. They ask us to pray with them. Like Jonathan, we are invited to be a true friend to our Chinese brothers and sisters facing persecution. We will stand with them in the name of the living God, ready to encourage, equip and support them in the battle." Used by Permission The Voice of the Martyrs PO Box 443, Bartlesville, OK 74005 www.persecution.com
Please, please uphold our Chinese brothers and sisters in Christ in much prayer.

Valen & Carol Staley-InterAct Ministry

August 3-Valen and Carol Straley, with InterAct Ministry, are located in Kamloops, British Columbia.  They will be in the Washington area from October to mid-November and here at Hillside November 9th.  Summer is a pleasant time after long Canadian winters and they are enjoying the beauty that comes with the warmer weather, camping & conferences; Valen is playing softball with a Senior's team (for those of us who have known Valen since he was a teen, find that hard to believe); and Carol is enjoying her gift of painting outside.


 Pray for:     

  • Housing for low income families as they are evicted then the remodeled apartments are too expensive;
  • Will and Leslie who are having marriage troubles
  • Finances as Valen and Carol travel, especially with the high gas prices


We look forward to the Straley's at our Cultural Awareness Fair (Missions Conference) in November, along with Howie and Joann Brant; Joe and Brenda Ziska; and Carol Magnusson. If the Lord has given you a place for missions in your heart and you would like to head up, or co-head this Conference, please let the office know.


Wycliffe Bible Translators
July 27-
Today WYCLIFFE BIBLE translators and their partners are participating in the greatest acceleration of the pace of Bible translation that the Church has ever witnessed. God is calling more and more people to take ownership of Bible translation in their own language. As a result, we're seeing a dramatic increase in the Church's capacity for reaching the last remaining languages. Thirty percent of Bible translation programs currently in progress were started since 1999. That's the year Wycliffe committed to Vision 2025--the goal of seeing a Bible translation in progress in every language that needs it by the year 2025. Ultimately Bible translation is God's work, and it will be accomplished in His timing. But He has given us the opportunity to participate in the process. As we each contribute toward Bible translation in the ways that God calls us--whether through prayer, financial contributions, service, or all three--we will witness amazing results. Our part may not feel significant to us, but each small step taken brings the goalposts a little closer. -From InFocus, Wycliffe monthly publication.

Camas Meadows Bible Camp
July 17-
Camas Meadow Bible Camp, located in the mountains, before one gets to Cashmere, is currently having their camps. The camp equipment is run by a huge generator which broke down before the first camping group arrived. A rental generator got them through and now the camp generator is fixed * Praise the Lord! Satan has tried so hard to discourage this wonderful Christ-centered camp but the camp directors, staff, and a large Prayer group look to Christ for their help in all times of need.

Pray for:
Safety in travel, play and health for the students
Staff to be alert to students needs
Kitchen Staff as they cook and serve the students
Speaker's messages, witness and testimony
Holy Spirit to move in the lives of the students & staff
Safety as each group goes to Lake Chelan for a day & travel
Friday nights as students share at the campfire
That God is glorified in all that is said and done at camp

Pray not only for Camas Meadows as they minister to their camp goers, but also for the many other Christian-based camps that do the same this summer, may God draw many to Him!
"The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.* James 5:1b

Shared Hope Ministry
July 13-
This week's missionary focus in on Shared Hope International. Shared Hope was launched exactly 10 years ago in response to the tremendous need to save girls from the sex trade industry. Their goal was to make girls safe, to get them healthy and to give them hope for the future. They built villages where the girls could be safe and where they could start over. But Shared Hope did far more than just minister to the lives of the girls that came to their village; they also ministered to the babies and children that came with them. Now not only are the girls in a safe environment, but their children are as well. Some of those children are now teenagers who are actively involved in the ministry. They serve as mentors to other girls at the Village and manage the hospitality house for visiting volunteers. They are proof of how God can fully restore a life in more than one generation!
Shared Hope appreciates all the support they have received in the past ten years. They have been able to rescue and restore the lives of girls targeted by the sex-trafficking industry and free them from horrific lives of slavery, violence and despair. If you'd like to help or receive more information on the Shared Hope ministry, go to their website at www.sharedhope.org

Michael & Athena Kantartjis-Athens, Greece
July 6-
This week's missionary focus in on Michael & Athena Kantartjis in Athens, Greece. In their recent prayer letter they wrote, "We praise the Lord for a great blessing in the ministry He has led us to serve Him in. We had a great evangelistic meeting in a downtown hotel in Athens. (There are about 5 million in Athens.) Sixty people responded to the invitation!"
"We also have a thousand subscribers to our "Gospel Newspaper". A number of our believers pray every day for the salvation of 50 people for a month. At the end of the month they choose 50 others to pray for during that month". All four of the Kantartjis children are involved in the work. What an awesome ministry!
Pray:
1. For the OC International ministry.
2. Pray for the readers of the newspaper that many would come to our Lord for salvation.
3. Pray for the Kantartjis family spiritually, physically and financially. With the rising cost of "everything" it is getting harder to meet the obligations.


Church in Kenya

June 29-This week's missions focus is on the church in Kenya, Africa, where over 350,000 people have been killed. Many churches have been burned, some of them full of worshiping believers. Our own Howie and Jo Ann Brant have been in and out of Kenya ministering to the people there. They will be with us October 19th, two weeks before our Cultural Awareness Fair. Pray specifically for our persecuted brothers and sisters, and the influence that the Brants' have in Africa.

Kids Alive
June 22-
An urgent prayer request and call for help has come from the Kids Alive organization. You have all probably heard of the complete devastation in Myanmar (Burma), caused by that recent cyclone that not only destroyed complete villages and killed over 65,000 people, but also left over 1.5 million people destitute.
Kids Alive is one of the few Christian organizations working in Myanmar where they care for over 2,200 children. Praise God that none of their children or staff was killed, but the cyclone completely destroyed their New Life Home in Yangon. Roofs were torn off their school and off the Heritage Home. The children are now being sheltered in a local church, but they need to be moved soon.
Please uphold Kids Alive as they began the long process of rebuilding. Pray that their financial needs will be met. They will need $158,000 to rebuild and repair homes & schools, provide food, clean water, medicine, blankets and clothing for the children, with another $100,000 needed to care for newly orphaned children. Pray for the survivors and the emotional needs of the children. You can find more information about Kids Alive on the insert in this bulletin. If you're interested in helping with this urgent need, please contact Kristi Terrell in the office.

Slavic Gospel Association

June 15-When communism was abandoned across the former Soviet Union, people gained many new freedoms, including the right to worship. Bible believing Christians breathed a sigh of relief. Doors were opened for Western based Christian Ministries such as Slavic Gospel Association to help reach the lost with the Gospel. God's church has grown!
However, government officials are beginning to clamp down on Bible believing churches. They are lumped into the category of cults as sects that should be looked on with suspicion. All churches are now required to register with the state. Some pastors have been imprisoned.
There are estimated as many as 700,000 orphan children across Russia. There is an aids epidemic, and thousands of young people are alcoholics or in prison. The picture is bleak! But SGA presses on, working in the orphanages and jails and local churches in spite of persecution. Our church helps support missionaries who are involved in church planting and various ministries such as children's work, evangelistic outreach, etc.
Pray: For the suffering churches in Russia, Pray for the orphanage ministry, Pray for the financial needs as well as the physical needs of His servants over there. Pray especially that the doors will remain open to the spreading of God's word in that needy country.


N.I.C.E. Missionaries

June 8-This week's Missionary focus is on missionaries with N.I.C.E. and the National I.F.C.A. convention that will be held in Eugene, Oregon this year on June 20th-24th.
Pray for:
*For all of those who will be attending the conference. Pray that it will be a profitable time spiritually as well as physically, emotionally and mentally.
*Pray especially for Bob and Katherine Rogers as they are dealing with the serious illness of Katherine's mother. She has inoperable brain cancer.
*Jim & Christy Edgell would appreciate prayer regarding their next place of ministry.
*Terry & Lisa Strunk are also in need of special prayer concerning their next move.
 

Mark & Ruthie Stoscher-Alongside Ministries International
June 1-Mark and Ruthie Stoscher, serving with Alongside Ministries International in Erseke, Albania, are presently Stateside. They have 4 young children: Jamie, Beka, Albi, and Stephen, a rambuctious-looking group of siblings. Our Children's Church took the Stoscher Family on as a mission project a number of years ago, and continue to do so. The Stoschers ask for prayer for a co-worker Edi, and for the roofing project that has begun at camp. Also mission workers in the same area are Cait Bidinger seeking God's guidance for the decisions that will shape her future with her adopted child, Agrinas. Also for Doni and Gail Lilo as they visit churches Stateside; for their co-workers at camp; the children's ministry, and for a healthy pregnancy for Gail. Summer is a busy time with children and youth camps. Pray that the Holy Spirit will give the workers strength and those who attend a heart for coming to know, and serve, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Plateau Outreach Ministries-Enumclaw, WA
May 25-
Plateau Outreach Ministries, provides Christ-centered social services to our communities. They offer financial assistance, senior support, food bank/clothing needs and other emergency assistance. POM has a quiet, but ever-so dynamic impact on our community.
PLATEAU CARE CORP FOR SENIORS: provides information to Seniors to help maintain their independence; training/education regarding Senior needs; referrals to other helping agencies; and affirm the volunteer chore ministry through Plateau-area churches.
SAMARITAN PROJECT: a central agency on the Plateau for which people may apply for assistance. Churches on the Plateau, through the Plateau Ministerial Assn. and individuals help with assistance.
FOOD AND CLOTHING BANK: Volunteers help distribute food and clothing on Wednesday. The utmost respect is given the clients in a warm and caring atmosphere.
MORE PENNIES FROM HEAVEN: A "heavenly" thrift store managed entirely by "angels" who give so generously of their time and love to maintain an operation that benefits the entire community, but also with the sales generated helps support POM. Our Kathy Duncan is the Manager, and our Debbie Games is Asst. Manager. The warmth and joy when one enters is evident. Monday, May 19th, an appreciation banquet was held for the 100+ volunteers, Board Members, all involved was outstanding. The love and appreciation was so warmly expressed by our Director, Kimberly Fish. Our basket in the Narthex is always available for non-perishable food items; volunteers are always welcome; come and see the body of Christ in action!

Howard & Jo-Ann Brant-SIM (Sudan Interior Mission)
May 18-
This week's Missionary focus is on Howie and Jo-Ann Brant, missionaries serving presently in Nairobi, Kenya, with SIM (Sudan Interior Mission). In their recent prayer letter, they told of an aircraft which flies their people in and out of the Sudan. It was taking off with 4 ladies aboard. The ground was wet and the tires swept through puddles of water slowing the aircraft down. Shortly are takeoff it veered to one side and plunged into the ground. Praise the Lord that no one was killed and all got out with only bruises, some broken bones, and trauma.
Howie has been to India doing a seminar on church planting. They had 25 missionaries in a prayer meeting from 13 different countries, interceding for 1.4 billion people in Hindu and Muslim communities. Pray for Howie and Jo-Ann as they minister to so many people in such diverse areas. They will be joining us in a Cultural Awareness Fair in the Fall here at Hillside, along with Joe and Brenda Ziska from Austria; Valen and Carol Straley from Canada; and Carol Magnusson from Nigeria. Be praying about this now.

N.I.C.E. Missionaries
May 4-
This week we Spotlight two missionaries who grew up/ministered here at Hillside and have been with N.I.C.E. for many years:
**Terry and Lisa Strunk and their family have been in Kooskia, ID, for many years at Valley Bible Church. They are resigning as of June 1, 2008. They are confident this is the leading of the Lord, but at this point do not know the direction and location for their lives. They ask for prayers for direction, for wisdom, and for guidance in the future. Terry is currently looking for a job in the Spokane/Coeur d'Alene area. His skills include an EMT, firefighter, mechanic, building construction, maintenance, and military experience. They also ask for wisdom for the people of Valley Bible Church.
**Jim and Christy Edgell and their family at Denton Bible Church in Denton, MT, have resigned as of the end of March, 2008. They ask for prayer for where God would have them serve next; guidance to the right place and that they would be sensitive to His leading. Also prayer as the church begins the search for a new pastor, and continuing ministry and testimony to the commuity. "For I know the plans that I have for you, 'declares the LORD,' plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11

CAMAS MEADOWS WOMEN'S RETREAT
April 20-
The Camas Meadows Women's Retreat will be held May 16-18, at Camas Meadows Bible Camp. This year the Guest Speaker will be: Corey Brown of Sisters in Christ Ministry. Corey presents real-life Monologues and after that she has Breakout Sessions discussing how we identify with the characters. Then we regroup to hear the Message from Corey which draws us into a closer walk with the Lord Jesus Christ. Registration forms are available in the Narthex if you are interested in attending. Scholarships are available. There are Craft times, Raffle, Silent Auction, and sale of "gently" used items. Should you have questions, please call Kate Percival

Carol Magnusson-Wycliffe Bible Translators

April 13-Carol Magnusson, with Wycliffe Bible Translators, in Nigeria, will be returning to Enumclaw, Monday, April 14th. The last 3 1/2 weeks have been spent in Kenya at a Conference, Workshop, and few days of visiting friends near Nairobi. At the moment there is unsettled peace in Kenya. Pray for forgiveness as that is what can heal the hurts inflicted on one another. Carol is coming home 2 months early due to a dental situation that cannot be fixed in Jos. So in a week she has had to pack up all her belongings at her home, find someone to live in her house, quickly process her visa, and get airline tickets! Pray for strength and
wisdom for her. Praise the Lord, she did find someone to rent her home for a while. Continue to pray for her trip and her time here- she still has two reports to write when she is here. This is a 10-month furlough and she will return at the end of Jan. 09.

Samaritan's Purse

April 6-
Dr. Bob Pierce founded Samaritan's Purse in 1970 with a heart for what he called "the little people"--those men, women, and children who are insignificant in the eyes of the world but precious in the eyes of God. Jesus said, "In as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me" (Matt. 25:40b).
Here is a life-changing account: "Lata was near death's door when her parents brought her to a mission hospital in Southeast Asia, one of the many Christian hospitals worldwide that Samaritan's Purse helps to support. The young girl was paralyzed by a melon-sized tumor near her spine, and her parents had tried everything else, including sacrificing to a Hindu monkey god."There at the hospital, Lata heard the Good News for the first time and gave her heart to Jesus Christ. Dr. Steve removed the tumor during a long, difficult surgery. Though the operation did not cure Lata, it did give her eight more months to live for the Lord. On Easter Sunday last year, Dr. Steve carried Lata into a nearby pond, where she was baptized. Before she went home to heaven, Lata led her entire family to faith in her Savior. "This girl grew in Christ like no one I've ever known," Dr. Steve said. "She just radiated Christ. I told her, 'Oh, Lata, what a shame that you have this cancer.' She had a twinkle in her eyes, not tears, when she said, 'It's no shame what I've traded to be with Christ.'"
Thank God for equipping Samaritan's Purse and using our relief work in ways that bring people to faith in Jesus Christ. Remember the missionary hospitals, Bible schools, and other Christian institutions that are on the frontlines of evangelism.



Operation Christmas Child

March 30-Operation Christmas Child is a project of Samaritan's Purse.  A booklet just received would bring you to tears as story after story tells of children's joy in receiving these "gifts of love ."Franklin Graham writes: "From the heart of mainland China to the sandy hills of coastal Peru, Samaritan's Purse has been busy distributing shoe box gifts to hurting children in some of the most remote parts of the globe.  Working with local believers worldwide, we have been sharing the true message of Christ--that a loving God became flesh in the person of Jesus Christ to save us from sin and give us eternal life. 'Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanual, which is translated, 'God with us' (Matt. 1:23)."We praise God for all the lives that have been touched through our Operation  Christmas Child project, both those who pack the boxes and those who receive them.  Since 1993, more than 61 million shoe box gifts have been delivered to boy and girls in some 130 nations.  Through our evangelistic materials and follow-up discipleship program, millions of children and family members have heard the Gospel for the first time and many have made life-changing decisions for Jesus Christ.  What an exciting missions opportunity, and it starts with a simple shoe box!"Hillside is a part of that vital Ministry with toothpaste, toothbrushes, washcloths, and many other items put in the shoeboxes. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights."  -James 1:17


David & Phyllis Enns-World Team Missions
March 25-
This week's Missionary focus is on David and Phyllis Enns with World Team Missions. Phyllis grew up in Country Bible Church along with brother, Valen Straley with InterAct Ministry in Kamloops, Canada.
In their travels, David & Phyllis have been excited to see how God brought the field together--the leadership, unity, vision and eagerness to deploy to some challenging places. Six new teams will soon be "moving out." However, after much prayer David and Phyllis are planning on leaving World Team at the end of September. They are waiting on God's direction on where He would have them serve.
They will be spending Easter with their daughter Carissa, her husband, Leigh and their children. They will then be in the States and Canada from April 18-May 14, where they will see their daughter Andrea, her husband, Jason and their children; and their daughter Maria who is pursuing a nursing degree.

Richard & Connie Smith-Cross Ministries
March 16-
Richard and Connie Smith with Cross Ministries, again long-time missionaries with Hillside started up a Prayer Resolution Ministry. They have few books out that are so helpful: "Forgiveness: an Act of Mercy and A Key to Answered Prayer; Cleansing: Resolving The Consequences of Sexual Sin; Freedom from Dark Forces: A Model for Spiritual Warfare; Freedom From Words of Power; and A Journey to Wholenes".
"Christ accomplished more at the cross than just handling the sin question. He defeated Satan and He created the grounds for us to have healing and release from the power of sin."
Their website is www.cross-resources.org. They express their appreciation for our support and prayers. Richard's health is improving--the bone cancer is not showing any advance and he still has no symptoms. PTL and continue to pray!

N.I.C.E. (Northwest Independent Church Extension)
Mar. 2-
This week's Missionary focus is on the NICE (Northwest Independent Church Extension) ministry. NICE began in March, 1958. They are celebrating their 50th Anniversary this month! In those years God has done wonderful things through this ministry:--people have been saved --- lives have been changed --the Word of God has been taught -- churches have been started & revived -- marriages have been restored --- believers have grown in grace --- truly God has been glorified!
The Mission's Vision is clear: "We envision NICE as a fellowship of committed servants of Jesus Christ, aggressively involved in planting, establishing and serving churches among all people groups, prayerfully working together with our constituent churches in a spirit of interdependence." Hillside is a NICE Church and we help support the NICE Mission. "For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves, your servants for Jesus' sake." 2 Corinthians 4:5- the NICE Theme Verse since 1958.

Terry & Lisa Strunk- N.I.C.E.

Feb. 24-Terry and Lisa Strunk are with N.I.CE., presently ministering in Kooskia, ID. They were involved in ministry at Hillside many years ago. They have a very strong AWANA program and just finished with the Grand Prix races with 40 cars after being challenged from the Word of God. Their Church body grows and changes with the gain and loss of families. Terry keeps busy in the community in the fire department, and started a leadership class, opening doors to the community.
Terry & Lisa’s son, Joe has an opportunity to go to the British Isles with the choir from NW Nazarene University. Their daughter Ellie is studying at Moody Bible Institute in Spokane as God provided funds for this semester. Andrew & Abigail keep them very busy, growing up too fast, and their daughter Lisa is looking into taking on-line courses to get a medical transcriptionist certificate. Pray for: provisions of funds for Joe; needed medical insurance; health needs; and opportunities for outreach to families in Kooskia. They thank you for praying, caring, and giving.

Samaritan's Purste Ministry
Feb. 17-
From "A Samaritan's Purse Ministry Update" we read: "Lata was near death's door when her parents brought her to a mission hospital in Southeast Asia, one of the many Christian hospitals worldwide that Samaritan's Purse helps to support. The young girl was paralyzed by a melon-sized tumor near her spine, and her parents had tried everything else, including sacrificing to a Hindu monkey god. There at the hospital, Lata heard the Good News for the first time and gave her heart to Jesus Christ. Dr Steve removed the tumor and eased her suffering during a long, difficult surgery. Though the operation did not cure Lata, it did give her eight more months to live for the Lord. On Easter Sunday last year, Dr. Steve carried Lata into a nearby pond, where she was baptized. Before she went home to heaven, Lata led her entire family to faith in her Saviour. 'This girl grew in Christ like no one I've ever known,' Dr. Steve said. 'She just radiated Christ. I told her, 'Oh, Lata, what a shame that you have this cancer.' She had a twinkle in her eyes, not tears, when she said, 'It's no shame what I've traded to be with Christ.'
When you help provide items for Operation Shoe Box, be assured each child receives a booklet, in their language, about Jesus, and there is a discipleship program. What an investment in eternity!

Carol Magnusson-Wycliffe Bible Translators
Feb. 10-
This week’s Missionary focus is on Carol Magnusson in Jos, Nigeria, with Wycliffe Bible Translators. Carol just returned from a Language Survey Trip to NE Nigeria. She reports: The Survey, among the Bwatiye, showed 50% were Christians; they do have people to translate but need a plan. Carol praises God for providing many Christians for the Survey Team to stay with and guide them on this Survey. They were blessings to the Team.
The 1985 VW Beetle Carol drove worked, but not without problems. While near the Cameroon border, customs police stopped them, asked if they were missionaries & they said yes. The police wondered if they had any Christian literature and they remembered Bibles in the trunk. The Team left with the police holding a Hausa New Testament--PTL!
Carol wishes to express her thanks and appreciation for all of your prayers during this last survey. Please continue to pray for her, specifically for: a good translation plan; that God would provide extra funds as the exchange rate changes; for another Survey in February; for a work-related meeting in Kenya in March; a Survey in April; and for her trip back to the States for her first furlough in June.

Angel Tree Ministry
Feb. 3-
This week’s Missionary focus is on the ANGEL TREE Coordinators for the Great Northwest Area. Recently they sent this report on 2007 Angel Tree: "WOW! Did you know that in 2007 we celebrated Angel Tree's 25th year of ministry to children at risk? Just think of it, we as God's family working together have touched over eight and a half million children!"
The Great Northwest Area consists of WA, OR, ID, MT, and AK serving 14,897 children. Washington served 5,544 -- and Hillside has been a part of this ministry for approximately 20 years. A blessing came to the Coordinators in mid-December. They received a check for $800 from the Crossroads Correctional Center in Shelby, MT. It seems the inmates wanted to do something for Angel Tree as many of the men have had gifts delivered to their children on their behalf and wanted to give back. With help from the Chaplain and staff they had a fund raiser. They bought pizzas and sold them for $2 a piece and raised the $800 -- PRAISE THE LORD!! Your ministry is so much appreciated by these inmates. Thank you for your involvement in 2007 and past years.

Michael & Athena Kantartjis-OC International

Jan. 27-Today we feature Michael and Athena Kantartjis, in Athens, Greece, with OC international. Michael’s monthly newsletters are always filled with praise. He writes, “ Now, more than any other time, we have to let the Lord speak direction, His admonition, His rebuke, His teaching, and His light in this multi-compound world in which we live.”
Do you take time from the noise and busyness to listen and do the above? They have a newspaper, and a dial-in ministry reaping these general comments: “Reading your newspaper, the Lord made me a new person!”, “I am grateful to God because He saved me inside the main prison of Athens”, “I am thankful to God for using His people to bring me to God and to your blessed fellowship.”
Pray for their ministry, and funds to continue the newspaper. Be assured Michael prays for Hillside Community Church often!

Camas Meadows Bible Camp
Jan. 20-
This week’s Missionary focus is on Camas Meadows Bible Camp. The rustic mountain Camp, is beautiful now with lots of snow. Many churches are having Teen/Family camps. On January 4-6, North Shore Bible Church Jr. High Teen group was there. God worked in the lives of 4 boys who committed their lives to Christ. Pray for these boys: that they will continue to be in Church; that the Spirit would continue to have His way in their hearts; and that the Spirit would protect them from the attacks of the enemy. Camps are scheduled up to March -- this is a real blessing to the youth who attend, and to the needs of the Camp. Pray for Daryl Wilks, Camp Director; and Jared Heeren, Maintenance and Recreation; safety in travel for the groups/individuals coming to Camp; and for good health for the founders, Del & Autumn Griffith. “Casting all our cares on Him, for He cares for us” I Peter 5:7

Valen & Carol Straley-InterAct Ministries
Jan. 13-
This week’s Missionary focus is on Valen and Carol Straley, with InterAct Ministries. They are located in Kamloops, B.C., working with the Native Indians. They are so encouraged by some who are taking charge of homes for Bible Studies; stability in marriages; another guitarist; and the leading of the Holy Spirit in people's lives.
Their daughter Amy's husband Peter, will be attending a 16-month airplane mechanic course in Vancouver. Amy will have the full household responsibility. Peter's course will prepare him for mission aviation work. Their son David and wife Alisha bought a place in Kelowna and both are working for Interior Health.
Carol and Valen are looking forward to their furlough in the Fall--we look forward to seeing them. Their family picture is on the Bulletin Board. Uphold them in prayer in a difficult location.

Jan 6-Catalogue Ministries-
One resourceful grandma with a heart for the Lord had a great idea to make and decorate cookies with her two grandchildren. Not only was she spending some quality time with her grandkids, but she was teaching them a valuable lesson in serving the Lord! With some willing customers, the three were able to earn $440.35! So how far would $440.35 go today? Would you believe: one year of school for a child; 15 desks; a plow; 2 dozen ducks; 2 pigs; 2 dozen chickens; 3 goats; and 2,000 fingerlings (baby fish)?!
After they sold the last cookie, these 3 pored over a gift catalogue from World Concern. What a blessing to see how far their efforts would go! They were rewarded with helping families in less-prosperous countries to enhance their living! The Lord was truly glorified!
Why not start your own tradition this year? These catalogues from many Mission organizations are available and can be used all year round. Look for them in the Narthex!

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission
December 30-
This week’s Missionary focus is on Joe and Brenda Ziska with Greater Europe Mission in Vienna, Austria. In their recent letter they write, “We want to wish you a very Merry Christmas from Austria! Just one year ago November 19, 2006, we had our first worship service in Klosterneuburg in a cellar theater. Herta had been praying and waiting for 20 years for this moment. Herta's husband, Otto, would come with Herta to Bible Studies but he was fascinated only by Biblical history. They needed a pulpit and Otto made one -- a lovely piece of workmanship. Through continued Bible Studies Otto has grown spiritually and we will meet him in heaven, knowing we had a part of winning him to the Lord!”
They are able to rent a room for Church for $25 for the Sundays they meet, and soon will receive a key. Brenda praises God for His continued provision of this lovely meeting place. There are copies of their "Merry Christmas from Austria" letter in the Narthex -- please take one and uphold them in prayer, as well as the Klosterneuburg Church!

Various Missionary Updates
December 23-
This week’s Missionary focus is an update on the various ministries our church is involved in:
The Shoebox Ministry of Samaritan's Purse was a tremendous blessing this year. Please be in prayer for God to raise an individual or group to take over this ministry for 2008. Shirley Mead would be able to give you guidance but can no longer physically do the work!
The pies made for The Tacoma Rescue Mission bless so many at the Mission, as well as those who involve themselves in the work of preparing the pies.
The Women's Fellowship ladies’ took an offering at their luncheon and gave to Camas Meadows Bible Camp a total of $353. This is in lieu of the Christmas Card we had for many, many years. He blesses abundantly.
Angel Tree, a Ministry of Prison Fellowship, had excellent participation. The Area Coordinator said that after Churches had been given the Angels requested, 600 children still needed to be taken. An e-mail on Dec. 2nd said a miracle happened -- all 600 children had been given out -- how we praise the Lord!
Many blessings abound and God has given us the abundance with which to accomplish His work. His blessings overflow!

Mark & Ruthie Stoscher-Alongside Ministries International
December 16-
Mark and Ruth Stoscher with Alongside Ministries Intl, are serving the Lord in Albania. They had Summer Camps with over 1000 attendees at different Camps. Forest fires during the hot summer were alleviated in their city by a Church building a dunking tank -- wow, they had fun dunking a missionary!
Seven people were baptized in Sept a man who is blind was also baptized telling how he had newfound sight -- seeing and knowing our Lord. Praise God for these people showing an outward sign of their commitment to Jesus Christ. The Stoschers have 3 children; Ruth and Mark's Moms visited this summer too. Bible School consists of 19 students from 7 nations for a six-month program. What an awesome praise. Check their website: www.torchbearers-albania.org for more of their ministry.

Jim & Christy Edgell-N.I.C.E.
December 9-
This week’s missionary focus is on a couple in the NICE ministry: Jim & Christy Edgell are in Denton, MT. They both grew up at Hillside and are so special to those of us who know them. They have 5 children: Ander (11) in the 6th grade; Torin (9) in the 3rd grade; Gracie (6) in Kindergarten; and Maddie and Morgan (4) home schooled for preschool. Doesn’t seem possible, does it?
Jim took each of the 3 older ones camping, separately, this summer, enjoying fishing and hiking (like their Grandpa John). Jim is a captain on the local volunteer fire department; Christy is working at a grocery store once a week, and doing some healthcare with a dear neighbor, where she is able to bring the twins along.
They would appreciate prayer for the church and leadership issues. Jim is teaching the church about what to look for in Godly leadership.

Ken & Eva Needham-TransWorld Mission
December 2-
This week’s missionary focus is on Ken and Eva Needham, with TransWorld Mission. They have spoken at Hillside twice in the past, & soon will be in Bonney Lake to visit their son, Paul and family. His Newsletter spoke of their travels, and had interesting paragraphs on “WATCH THOSE GAPS!” Ken writes, "There is a huge Gap between the Almighty, Holy, Just God and sinful careless finite frightened man. This was most wonderfully bridged by the Lord Jesus who laid aside His Majesty, and became man to get alongside us, then sacrificed Himself to bring us to God. "There is the Gap that develops between the reconciled (Christian) man and the Lord who seeks our constant fellowship. This happens all too easily when our vision gets filled with the material and the "urgent" and we lose sight of what really matters. "Thirdly, there is the Gap between the Jesus who loves the world of lost individuals, and those same ones who are hurting, lonely, confused prisoners. Believing themselves to be free, they continue to serve the lower nature and propagate their confusion constantly. You and I are to be the vehicles through whom Jesus continues His wonderful work of rescue and restoration. Will you join us in being completely sold out to Him for all that He intends to do through us?"

Michael & Athena Kantartjis-Overseas Crusade Int.
November 18-
This week’s Missionary focus is on Michael and Athena Kantartjis with Overseas Crusade Int. in Athens, Greece, where they live and minister in the power of the Holy Spirit. In their recent prayer letter, Michael & Athena said, “There is not a problem, anxiety, authority, satanic power, or impossible situation that cannot be overcome by the Holy Spirit. We are destined to move from victor to victory, triumph to triumph, glory to glory. By His indwelling power, we praise the Lord as the power of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus is always with us. This power makes us the strongest and happiest people of the world. Through the victory of Jesus on the cross, and His glorious resurrection, the Holy Spirit dwells in us.” Praise God for their faithfulness and ministry to the Lord! Remember to uphold them this week in prayer!

Carol Magnusson- Wycliffe Bible Translators
November 11-
This week’s Missionary focus is on Carol Magnusson, with Wycliffe Bible Translators, in Jos, Nigeria. Carol asks for prayer for one of their Language Survey Team members, Yakubu. His father-in-law was bitten twice by a viper. Pray for complete healing. Yakuba's son had hernia surgery last week (adult-sized hernia in a one-year old). These attacks are from Satan as they embark on their first Survey trip.
The area they are going into (Niger State) is very much threatened by Christianity (notice Nigeria is on the Persecuted Church map too). Pray for the team as they prepare to leave for 10 days. Copies of Carol's Magnusson Memoirs for November are available in the Narthex in case you don't get them on your computers.

Richard & Connie Smith-Cross Ministries

November 4-This week’s Missionary focus is on Richard and Connie Smith founders of Cross Resources, Inc., a Prayer Resolution Ministry. They recently finished a PR Training seminar in Minnesota. They had a consistent 30 people that continued for 2 very intensive weeks, from 9 AM-9 PM. Along with that was an advanced program. The aim now is to create more teams of “safe others,” and to begin to prepare some towards actually teaching. One couple left for China; another told of Prayer Resolution in Siberia and the States.
They sent the manuscript, “Freedom from Dark Forces: a Model for Spiritual Warfare” to the printers, and the next is “Forgiveness.”
Richard’s lab test show all his scores are good; his test shows the cancer has not advanced in a year. He still has bone cancer but no symptoms— how we Praise the Lord! They give their thanks for continued prayer and support. Continue to uphold them in prayer.

October 28-PLAN AHEAD! Here’s how to send special holiday gifts to a Missionary overseas:

*Cards and letters should be sent directly to the Missionary’s personal mailing address (allow 2-3 weeks)
*Before sending a package outside the US, ask the Missionary about the customs regulations in the country they reside in. Import fees are very expensive to receive packages in foreign countries.
*Monetary gifts should be sent to the Mission Board office.
*For tax-deductible gifts, please make your check payable to the board, indicating who it is for on a separate piece of paper. You will receive a tax-deductible receipt.
*For non-tax deductible gifts, you may send a personal check, payable to the Missionary. Indicate that it is a personal Christmas gift.
*Monetary gifts should arrive at the Mission Board office by mid-Nov. if the Missionary is to receive it by Christmas

Vladimir & Nadia Savich-Slavic Gospel Association
October 21-
This week uphold Vladimir and Nadia Savich, who are with Slavic Gospel Association., and are ministering in Russia. See pictures of their Church in the hallway by the office.
Paul says, "For me to live is Christ, to die is gain.” A young woman, Luda, repented and received Christ, hiding her faith from her non-Christian family. Her father moved the family to be far from a church. Her 2 younger sisters received the Lord. Their father beat them when they told him. Luda can leave home legally but her brother vows to find her and kill her; the sisters cannot leave home. They try to stay in touch with other Christians but it's not easy. Pray for Luda & her family. And for the Savich's -- their work is hard and always under attack. "So the Word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.” Acts 19:20

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission
October 14-his week’s Missionary focus is on Joe and Brenda Ziska with Greater Europe Mission, in Vienna, Austria. Joe & Brenda are experiencing God's blessings in abundance in the new Klosterneuburg fellowship. Believers are coming forth and volunteering their gifts in the worship service. Continue to pray that this "revival" will continue. Pray for follow-up for women who attended the Women's Breakfast on Oct. 13th, an interdenominational evangelistic outreach. Over 200 signed up to come! Pray for courage for the women to come to the discussion groups and/or activities.
Joe's PSA was up; they are keeping close watch on that. David will be returning to finish up college but of great help on their website; Daniel's security job is finished but he was able to escort the President on a tour. Pray for them diligently -- they appreciate them so very much and we are blessed by doing so.


Action International Ministries
October 7-
This week’s Missionary focus is on Action International Ministries. Last week they were blessed by Ed and Joy Smith taking a truckload of 25 boxes of reference books for their Bibles and Books for Needy Pastors in Uganda project. These pastors know English. Bibles, preferably study Bibles in New Living, New American, and New International versions; Bible commentaries, study guides, dictionaries, atlases, handbooks are all needed. Put any you can spare in the box by the Narthex entrance doors. Another load will go up the week of Oct. 21st.

Ron & Bonnie Johnson-Missonary Gospel Fellowship
Sept. 30-
Ron and Bonnie Johnson, missionaries with Missionary Gospel Fellowship, ministering to an international student ministry, at Ft. Lewis; and now out of Turlock, CA. They had the Carbonado Church for many years; ministered in Aruba; and now with MGF. They are in the midst of a spiritual battle and a warring battle. Memorial services, tragic as they are, allow for opportunities to open up and speak freely and give testimonies about the Lord Jesus, and the need to be ready to meet Him.
Bonnie teaches a course and over 200 women attend the various courses offered. Pray for these women who faithfully attend each week
Pray for the Johnson's that they know how the Lord would lead them in this ministry to international students.

Pastors in Uganda
Sept. 16-This week’s Missionary focus is on the need for Bibles and Books for Needy Pastors in Uganda. Should you have the following Bibles/study books you no longer need, they can be used for the pastors in Uganda, Africa: Study Bibles preferably New Living Translation, NAS, NIV, NOT NIRV or paraphrases. Evangelical study books: Bible commentaries (no Barclay); Bible dictionaries, Bible atlases, and Bible handbooks. ONLY the above mentioned books are needed. Put them in the box to the right of the glass entry doors by Oct. 21. We are blessed by abundance; let's share our abundance!

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission
Sept. 9-This week’s Missionary focus is on Joe and Brenda Ziska with Greater Europe Mission, in Vienna, Austria. In their recent letter they tell us that Joe had laser treatment for his cancer, and now it cannot be done in the same area for 15 years. Every 3 months Joe will have a PSA test -- if it stays the same, no cancer; if it goes up it means the cancer is growing. Pray for lots and lots of quality time, Isaiah 40:29-31.
Also 7 young Christians sponsored by InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, were killed/hurt by a boiler explosion in the Alps. Pray for those who were hurt and the families of those who were killed as well as other students at Evangelical Academy who knew and were ministered to by the 2 young men that were killed.

Various Outreach opportunities

August 12-MISSIONS OUTREACH SCHOOL SUPPLIES-School supplies are beginning to appear on sale, so now is a good time to stock up for two projects. SAMARITAN'S PURSE: These are for the Christmas Shoebox Ministry: school supplies, small toys, socks, T-shirts (no logos). Bring them to the Fireside Room..
PLATEAU OUTREACH MINISTRIES: There is a list in the Narthex of needed school supplies, backpacks; maybe some non-perishable snacks would be handy too. Put these in the basket inside the Narthex doors. Kathy Duncan and Debbie Games work at POM and could give you some ideas too. Purchases at Safeway would also be a good way to build up the eScrip program!

Carol Magnusson-Wycliffe Bible Translators
August 5-
This week’s missionary focus is on our own Carol Magnusson with Wycliffe Bible Translators. Carol is with us today, but she leaves for Jos, Nigeria, for 2 years, on August 8th. Carol finished up the Language Survey work in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Now she joins a new team in Nigeria and uses her experience(s) to further God's Word in this area. Jos is about Central Nigeria, on a high plateau, located next to Cameroon on the West Coast. Pray for her as she gets her belongings together to go; her visa comes in; financial help in this move and set up; health; and safety. She is extremely grateful and encouraged by your love, prayers, and support.

Joe Ziska-Greater Europe Mission

July 29-PRAISE THE LORD: Joe Ziska, with Greater Europe Mission (Vienna) ended his radiation therapy with no significant side effects. The doctor was shocked when she knew he was still working full time.

PRAISE that God has brought Christian workers to minister to the children in their Sunday School. Brenda says: "That just has to be God!!!" The workers just came up and asked to work. Miracles never cease when we listen to the Holy Spirit's prompting.

Michael & Athena Kantartjis-Overseas Crusades Intl.
July 22-
This week’s Missionary focus is on Michael and Athena Kantartjis, Missionaries for Overseas Crusades, Intl.. They have been with Hillside for close to four decades. They are Greek and minister in their town of Athens. He is always full of praise for the Lord and the Holy Spirit working in lives. A free newspaper brings people to meetings and brings in calls to their dial-in ministry. The Lord uses Michael in sharing His Good News to folks in power, and ministry. They have four children, all involved in the Lord's work for His glory! Uphold them in prayer for continued strength, and finances in their ministry.

Slavic Gospel Association
July 15-
This week’s Missionary focus is on Slavic Gospel Association. Slavic Gospel tells of biking for Christ in Russia. Presently, teams of Russian Christian cyclists are crossing 2 Continents, 10 time zones, & 89 towns, sharing the "Gospel to the nations of the world." Starting May 5th on the Atlantic side, scheduled to arrive on the Pacific side September 2nd, these cyclists are taking Christ's love to many towns and villages that have no Bible-preaching church and have never heard the Gospel. Pray for their safety and witness; also for our missionaries Vladimir & Nadia Savich as they minister in Russia.

Richard & Connie Smith-Cross Ministries
July 8-
This week’s Missionary focus is on Richard & Connie Smith with Cross Ministries. Cross Resources is a Ministry of Richard and Connie Smith, long-time missionaries with Hillside Community Church. They deal with Prayer Resolution and have given of their expertise throughout the world. A recent note said that through their teaching a couple of Christians are using this in an unnamable country. Pray for this couple. Richard had a series of cluster headaches in April/May and now is hoping to finish a manuscript on the Occult. Be in much prayer as he works on this. They extol their thanks for your prayers and gifts.

Mark & Ruthie Stoscher-Alongside Ministries Int'l
July 1-
This week’s Missionary focus is on Mark & Ruth Stoscher, with Alongside Ministries Int'l, are in Albania. Where? A small mountainous country NW of Greece, East of Italy's boot on the Balkan Peninsula; very poor country. Summer Bible camps are in full swing & the Stoschers request prayer for the children in these camps. Uphold them in prayer for strength & that the Holy Spirit work mightily in the children's hearts.

Eva Means/Auburn Young Life Mexico Mission Trip
June 24-Missions for Mexico Our Eva Means is leaving June 26th for a week in Mexico. She and several girls from her High School are going with the Auburn Young Life group under the auspices of AMOR. Many others will be going as well. During the week they will build a house for a Mexican family; have Bible Studies and be doing evangelical outreach. Be in prayer for Eva and the girls for their health; living under less than "ideal" conditions; interpersonal relationships; and that their lives and example will be only to God's glory.

Jo Handorff & Humble Hearts Mission trip

June 17-This week’s Missionary focus is on our own Jo Handorff who leaves once again June 29-July 6, for Managua, Nicaragua. She will be working under Humble Hearts, a Christian outreach mission. This is a many-facetted group, they do: dental work; backyard VBS; English; sewing; cooking; feeding rice and beans; showing the Jesus film--helping in some of these areas.  You can find a list of items needed to take to the people of Managua on our News & Events page.  Please uphold Jo, and the Humble Hearts Mission, in Prayer, as they minister for God's glory. Please turn in any items for donation by June 27th.

Camas Meadows Bible Camp-Summer Camp 2007
June 10-
Summer Camp at Camas Meadows will transform your Summer and your Life. Get to know the God who made you, and see the beauty of His creation at Camas Meadows, in the mountains above Cashmere. Experience all kinds of crazy activities (including paintball) with very cool and caring counselors. Forms are available in the Narthex, and financial help is available.

N.I.C.E. Northwest Independent Church Extension
June 3-
This week’s missionary focus is on various missionaries under N.I.C.E. (Northwest Independent Church Extension).
1. Terry Strunk in Alaska– Praise that Terry’s brother was successfully rescued during an Alaskan storm, and praise for all the new families attending their church.
2. Roy & Elvia Sprague– Pray for Elvia as she recovers from a heart incident.
3. Don & Jody Wantland– Praise that Jody’s eye surgery was successful. Pray for their ministry at Shelton Bible Church.
4. Bob & Judi Allen. Pray for Judi while she is on a Mission trip in Alaska.
5. Brubakers & Rodgers– Pray for these families who have a heavy ministry schedule in June.

Carol Magnusson-Wycliffe Bible Translators-Ethiopia
May 27-This week’s missionary focus is on Carol Magnusson with Wycliffe Bible Translators. Carol is back in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia after a time in Mombasa, Kenya, and a Conference in Nairobi, Kenya.
Her computer crashed so she bought a new one in Nairobi and is transferring her data. Her telephone isn't working at home so she has to go to an internet cafe to do her work. She said that she is way behind, so she needs prayer for her phone line to work; and prayer that she can get everything transferred to the new computer; get her work done for SIL; and get the Church-related small group leaders on track. If you want more detailed info & do not get her Newsletter on-line, there are copies available in the Narthex.

Joe & Brenda Ziska-Greater Europe Mission, Vienna, Austria
May 20-
This week’s missionary focus is on Joe & Brenda Ziska with Greater Europe Mission in Vienna, Austria. In their recent prayer letter, the Ziskas shared a remarkable answer to prayer. At the end of April, the EVAK (the Evangelical Academy; university level Bible school) was accredited by the Austrian government as a non-profit organization. This is a miracle! Of 3000 applications per year for this status, only 30 are approved. The EVAK is practically the only evangelical entity in Austria that has this status! Not even the evangelical churches have been granted the right to be non-profit! It is both a sort of government recognition and certainly an incentive for potential donors. Praise God!
On the personal front, Joe’s radiation therapy should begin around the middle of May. Pray that he’ll be able to handle the reaction of tiredness from the therapy with grace. He would like to continue to energetically work for the Lord!

Michael & Athena Kantartjis-Overseas Crusade
May 6-
This week’s missionary focus is on Michael & Athena Kantartjis with Overseas Crusade in Athens, Greece. Michael’s whole family is involved in Evangelism meetings, Bible studies and sending out a regular newspaper that reaches many unsaved. Pray for continued strength and guidance as well as their financial needs.

David & Phyllis Enns- World Team Mission
April 29-
This week’s missionary focus is on David & Phyllis Enns with World team. Pray for guidance and direction as they plan various conferences and meetings. Pray for travel mercies and pray for their girls and the ministries in which they are involved.

Ministries in Israel
April 22-
This week’s missionary focus is on Israel. In Genesis 12:3, The Lord promises to Abraham: “I will bless those who bless you, and the one who curses you will be cursed.”
Israel is surrounded by unrest. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Let’s also pray that those in the Middle East will come to recognize Jesus as their Messiah.
Pray for Missions agencies like Chosen People, Israel My Glory and Jews for Jesus that minister, love and serve the Israeli people.

Valen & Carol Straley- InterAct Ministries

April 15- This morning we welcome our Missionaries, Valen & Carol Straley with InterAct Ministries in Kamloops, BC. They are here not only to update us on their ministry, but came to celebrate with family and friends, the marriage of their son David & his new wife Alisha. A belated wedding reception was held here yesterday.
While here, Valen & Carol will give us some insight to their work with InterAct Ministries. The goal of InterAct is to see a culturally relevant church transforming every community in the North Pacific Crescent, which includes places like: Siberia, Alaska, & Western Canada.
Valen & Carol are working with the Shuswap people in Kamploops. Please give them a warm welcome this morning and your prayers as they travel back to Canada to carryon with God’s work.

Ministries in India
April 8-
This week’s Missionary focus is on India. Sharing the gospel in India is an increasingly dangerous undertaking, especially in the state of Orissa. Recently about 500 militants attacked the staff and students of a Gospel for Asia Bible College. Five students were sent to a hospital, one in critical condition. Pray for complete restoration of the injured students and for salvation for the 500 men who carried on the attack.
There are about a billion people in India. Praise God that in some areas they are allowed to watch gospel programs on T.V. Pray that God will be able to reach many through those programs and snatch them from Satan’s clutches, and pray for each missionary ministering in India.

And the Lord said, “Lo I am with you always, even unto the ends of the earth.”

Ministries in Africa
April 1-
This week’s Missionary focus is on AFRICA. Franklin Graham says, “We give Him all the glory for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.”
Recently Samaritans Purse has been able to feed the hungry, share His love with the sick and suffering and encourage the body of Christ through a massive rebuilding program. This has been going on in East Africa, Sudan, Uganda, and Kenya. In a camp in Lira, Uganda 660 tons of food was given to help 30,000 people displaced by fighting. Howie & JoAnn Brant, our missionaries who are ministering in Nairobi, rejoice in the opportunities that they have had. Recently Howie spoke in a conference where between 40 & 50 thousand attended!
Continue to pray for the Samaritans Purse Ministry in Africa and pray for those people from Africa that God is preparing to be Missionaries in other countries.

Valen & Carol Straley with InterAct Ministries
Mar 25-
This week’s Missionary focus is on Valen & Carol Straley with Interact Ministries. This ministry involves Missionaries in many out of the way places in Alaska and Canada. Valen & Carol are serving our Lord in Kamloops, B.C.
Valen & Carol’s son, David was married in November and they are planning a belated wedding reception for him and his new wife, Alisha here at Hillside on Saturday, April 14th. Anyone who would like to come and celebrate with them is invited to do so between 1:00-4:00 PM. Pray that they will all have a safe trip to Washington and a nice visit while they are here.
Pray also for daily guidance and strength as many opportunities come up for sharing their faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Their Sunday school has nearly 20 children in attendance.

Joe & Brenda Ziska with Greater Europe Mission

Mar 18-This week’s Missionary focus is on Joe & Brenda Ziska with Greater Europe Mission. In their recent prayer letter we were updated on Joe’s surgery. He came through the prostate cancer surgery successfully. He now needs guidance concerning when to begin chemo.
Despite his health issues, Joe has recently been able to create a national advisory board in Austria for BAO (non-formal Biblical training program). This will increase the number of Austrians in BAO leadership and bring other areas of expertise (e.g. Business representatives & provincial leaders). They are having their 5th monthly worship service today. Pray for a good response to the service. Also continue to pray for Joe’s health and for Brenda as she prepares for children’s church and seeks to train others for this ministry.