March Report:
Well things have continued to stay busy here in the frozen north. Tami and the kids are really longing for spring so that they can get outside a little more, but there is still another month or so before that will happen. The snow is extremely beautiful so we don't really have anything to complain about. Our God is good.
An indoor playground has been started, with ages 0-6 in the auditorium and 7-12 in the gym, with age appropriate toys for each. This will be open to the community. This gives parents a place to take their children to play when it is really cold out (many months of this). There are lots of programs in the community as well as parents that will be able to make use of this area. There were quite a few toys put in that are for younger children. I know that Noah has had a great time playing, and enjoying his time there.
A decision has been made to go forward with the training for the Friendspeak program. Friendspeak uses the Bible as a training aid while helping people improve their English. We are hoping to have the training done with in the next few months so that we can start the program before the summer really kicks in. It is surprising how many people in our community have a need for this type of program as English is their second language. We are in prayer over this and would be grateful if you could pray for this as well.
This past month we also held our official Open House for the Parkland Crossing ministry. Approximately 100 visitors attended, and toured the facility, as well as took part in the festivities. I think that it was a successful day. A lot of work and planning went into it so it was nice to have such a good turn out. I know that God has blessed us. Along with the visitors there were a few local dignitaries that came to do the official ribbon cutting. All in all things were really good.
A movie night was held on 28th of Feb. and even though it was snowing quite hard that night we had a good turn out with a few visitors. The movie was good and everyone had a good time. We are hoping to hold another event like this again this month. The movie that we showed was "Facing the Giants" and it was well worth the price of admission, which of course was $0. Add to that some delicious popcorn, a great message, and the night was worth braving the snow.
On a very sad note. One of the young girls, Jennifer Coombs, that comes to church on her own lost here mother this past month. This is not only very sad for her as she deals with this loss, but also means that she will be forced to move, to live with either her father or her grandparents. We really need your prayers in this situation, as she comes to grips with this loss and for us as we minister to her in this time of need. Jen is only 12 years old.
I thank you for all that you do. I know that God has been watching over me, and my family through all of your prayers and your support. It is truly amazing what God can do through those that are willing to give in the name of our Lord.
Randy Foss