Dear 2010 TnT'rs
Even though I wasn’t involved directly with the team this year while you were in Ireland, please know from all the reports I’ve received, the team has been successful in accomplishing the good work of encouraging and building up believers and assemblies in Ireland along with the missionaries and national workers. You have also accomplished the good work of evangelism as you have distributed the magazines and NTs, and personally been a witness at the doors, on the street, and at the kids clubs. While it is the Lord who will reward you, I want to personally express our thanks to you for being willing to take the steps of faith that brought you to Ireland in the first place and the ones you’ve had to take day by day while you’ve been there.
The Lord Jesus told His disciples in John 15:16, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit --fruit that will last.” As we know from the context this verse doesn’t speak about salvation but rather of serving the Saviour. I trust that you have truly sensed that it was indeed the Lord who led you to get involved this year. I trust that as you obeyed the Lord in going with the gospel throughout that you have been encouraged by the immediate and visible fruit that you have seen. Please know that the greater fruit of all this serving and sowing, the “fruit that will last” will only be really understood and appreciated as it’s revealed to you in eternity.
And as I’ve already said, it is the Lord who will bring His abundant reward for faithful service and eternal fruit with Him. In the meanwhile, I trust you already have a sense of being rewarded not only through the response to the work you have done, but also through the relationships you have experienced with your fellow team members, Irish believers and the missionaries.
Six years ago following the visit of the team that year, Leonard Carolan emailed me the following that I’m sure he would echo again this year: “It was something that I couldn’t emphasize enough to the team when they were here. The team members themselves could never fully realize how appreciated the yearly visit is and how people were fired up for Christ by their coming. The effect is unbelievable, such an encouragement. I know, as I’m one of the encouraged! The arrival of the TNT crew is anticipated months before and remembered years after.”
I have no doubt that you have appreciated the extra service Brian, Heidi and Len have provided as they have accepted leadership roles and especially Brian as he’s driven you around Ireland. I want to thank them as well along with Jim and Frank, and everyone who has had to take on more as a result of me not being there. I also have no doubt that you have been overwhelmed by the generous hospitality of your hosts in every place where you have gone. God is indeed good, isn’t He!
I trust you have a memorable last night together with each other, the saints and the missionaries. As you return to your homes remember to water with prayer all the seed that has been sown trusting the Lord for the increase. As you return to your home assemblies, recount with joy the good work the Lord has accomplished in you and through you and don’t discount the possibility that you might be called upon to provide fresh vision and leadership for evangelism in your area. Don’t forget to thank those who faithfully supported and prayed for you. As they have expressed their partnership with you, be sure to share with them the results of that faithfulness.
Again, my thanks to each one of you for your participation in the 2010 TnT Team outreach. We trust the Lord will lead you to consider re-upping in years to come (see Ernie, Joan, Heidi and Brian for details).
Every blessing
Ron
Friday, June 18, 2010
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Team Trip + Dinner @ Shanganagh
The team set off from Waterford around 9am and headed down to the New Ross coast and toured the Dunbrody replica sail ship. After lunch in Arklow, our journey resumed with a stop in Glendalough; where the team toured the 8th century monastery there. This was followed with a scenic drive through the Sally gap, after which the team arrived back at Shanganagh bible chapel for a special dinner courtesy of our assembly hosts. God willing, 8 of the 10 team members will be flying out tommorow morning, and the remaining 2 on Friday morning. Pray for journey mercies as the team heads home!
Thank you to everyone who has faithfully followed the blog and has been praying for the team as they helped out with the assemblies here in Ireland. Special thanks to Ron Hampton for coordinating from afar, and everyone else who worked behind the scenes (the Lord knows who you are) to make this trip a success. To God be the glory, great things He has done!
-Josh George, filling in for Brian Kramer
Thank you to everyone who has faithfully followed the blog and has been praying for the team as they helped out with the assemblies here in Ireland. Special thanks to Ron Hampton for coordinating from afar, and everyone else who worked behind the scenes (the Lord knows who you are) to make this trip a success. To God be the glory, great things He has done!
-Josh George, filling in for Brian Kramer
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Doors+Magazines
After breakfast the team headed out for another couple hours of magazine delivery in the Waterford area, and after lunch continued with door to door work. Offering the free DVD turned out to be a good entry point for bringing up questions of faith, and the groups of two that went out all had a measure of good conversations with the locals. All in all, another productive day, and the Lord provided with good weather. This wrapped up our last day of officially ministry work in Ireland, and the faithfulness of God showed itself throughout our stay here in Waterford. Tommorow, God willing, the team will return to Dublin and the Shanganagh assembly, and wrap up our stay here. Pray for journey mercies!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Street Evangelism, Gospel meeting, Door to door work
The past three days have been filled with activity for the team as we have moved into the home stretch of our time here in Ireland. On Saturday, after another morning of distributing the 4You magazines, the team hit the streets of the Waterford downtown core for the second afternoon in a row to strike up conversations and hand out tracts.
A number of notable conversations included one Victor had with a gentleman fundraising for the SPCA, who was an evolutionist by persuasion, but was open minded and was found to be receptive; and graciously recieved gospel literature that catered to the scientific mind. Callie and Josh had a couple of good conversations, particularly with teenagers who were spending their day off school in the square; two girls, Jane and Kelly, were especially interested in what the Bible had to say about Jesus and the significance of His death. Their religious upbringing made them extremely receptive to the truths of scripture, and they were left with alot to think about and reading material that outlined the simple concepts of the Gospel and what it means to humanity. In the meantime, as Brian was sitting in the square working on his Gospel message for Sunday evening, a woman by the name of Christina sat by him, and after striking up conversation with her, Brian soon found out that her husband had passed away about five years ago from multiple sclerocis, a disease that one of Brian's family members' had suffered from in the past. It was made very apparent that their meeting wasnt an accident! They were able to talk briefly about the Gospel, and she was invited out to Sunday's Gospel meeting, but said she wouldnt be able to make it because of a time conflict. These were just a handful of the promising dialogues that were had over the course of Saturday afternoon; and we would request that you would remember Jane, Kelly, and Christina in your prayers as the truth that they heard would take root.
Sunday morning, the team broke bread at Waterford Christian Assembly, and in the Family Bible Hour, Leonard Carolan shared from the word about prayer. Leonard had to leave soon after the meeting, and his presence will be missed as the team continues its work here in Waterford. On Sunday evening, Waterford Christian Assembly had rented out a conference room in the Dooley's hotel, and held an open Gospel meeting for the public. Invitations for this meeting had been handed out the previous two days, and four people turned up for the 8 oclock session. It began with David taking favorites for songs, followed by a special number by Heidi, and finally the message from Brian. During the course of the message, a fellow in the back, Guiness in hand, became very vocal with his questions, mentioning his Catholic upbringing and asking what Brian was trying to get at with the message. God be thanked, Brian kept his cool as he answered the man's questions, and was able to finish the message as planned; but not before the man had gone up and left, shaking his head. Pray for this man! His name also happens to be Brian! Whether he left out of disinterest or true conviction, what he heard that evening was the truth; so the rest is left to the work of the Holy Spirit. The others that came stayed for a good while and talked amongst the various team members. Good conversations were had over tea; in the meantime Victor was out in the streets striking up dialogues with passerby in the downtown core. Alot of literature was given out in this time.
Today (Monday), the 4You magazines were again delivered in the morning, and the first round of door to door work in the Waterford area ensued after lunchtime. Part of the work here includes the offering of the Jesus: Fact or Fiction DVD, free for a three week borrowing period, after which an assembly member comes to pick it up with no obligation. The DVD includes the Jesus film (most historically accurate film about the life of Jesus in existence), as well as bonus features that look at Christianity in an apologetic light (with interviews with Josh mcdowell and Ravi zacharias).
Tommorow, God willing, will be the teams last ministry day in Waterford, and will be following the same pattern as today's activities. Pray for focus for the team and boldness as they hit the doors again tommorow. Thank you to all that have been faithfully following the team's activities so far, and for the prayers and support thereof. God bless!
-Josh George, filling in for brian kramer
A number of notable conversations included one Victor had with a gentleman fundraising for the SPCA, who was an evolutionist by persuasion, but was open minded and was found to be receptive; and graciously recieved gospel literature that catered to the scientific mind. Callie and Josh had a couple of good conversations, particularly with teenagers who were spending their day off school in the square; two girls, Jane and Kelly, were especially interested in what the Bible had to say about Jesus and the significance of His death. Their religious upbringing made them extremely receptive to the truths of scripture, and they were left with alot to think about and reading material that outlined the simple concepts of the Gospel and what it means to humanity. In the meantime, as Brian was sitting in the square working on his Gospel message for Sunday evening, a woman by the name of Christina sat by him, and after striking up conversation with her, Brian soon found out that her husband had passed away about five years ago from multiple sclerocis, a disease that one of Brian's family members' had suffered from in the past. It was made very apparent that their meeting wasnt an accident! They were able to talk briefly about the Gospel, and she was invited out to Sunday's Gospel meeting, but said she wouldnt be able to make it because of a time conflict. These were just a handful of the promising dialogues that were had over the course of Saturday afternoon; and we would request that you would remember Jane, Kelly, and Christina in your prayers as the truth that they heard would take root.
Sunday morning, the team broke bread at Waterford Christian Assembly, and in the Family Bible Hour, Leonard Carolan shared from the word about prayer. Leonard had to leave soon after the meeting, and his presence will be missed as the team continues its work here in Waterford. On Sunday evening, Waterford Christian Assembly had rented out a conference room in the Dooley's hotel, and held an open Gospel meeting for the public. Invitations for this meeting had been handed out the previous two days, and four people turned up for the 8 oclock session. It began with David taking favorites for songs, followed by a special number by Heidi, and finally the message from Brian. During the course of the message, a fellow in the back, Guiness in hand, became very vocal with his questions, mentioning his Catholic upbringing and asking what Brian was trying to get at with the message. God be thanked, Brian kept his cool as he answered the man's questions, and was able to finish the message as planned; but not before the man had gone up and left, shaking his head. Pray for this man! His name also happens to be Brian! Whether he left out of disinterest or true conviction, what he heard that evening was the truth; so the rest is left to the work of the Holy Spirit. The others that came stayed for a good while and talked amongst the various team members. Good conversations were had over tea; in the meantime Victor was out in the streets striking up dialogues with passerby in the downtown core. Alot of literature was given out in this time.
Today (Monday), the 4You magazines were again delivered in the morning, and the first round of door to door work in the Waterford area ensued after lunchtime. Part of the work here includes the offering of the Jesus: Fact or Fiction DVD, free for a three week borrowing period, after which an assembly member comes to pick it up with no obligation. The DVD includes the Jesus film (most historically accurate film about the life of Jesus in existence), as well as bonus features that look at Christianity in an apologetic light (with interviews with Josh mcdowell and Ravi zacharias).
Tommorow, God willing, will be the teams last ministry day in Waterford, and will be following the same pattern as today's activities. Pray for focus for the team and boldness as they hit the doors again tommorow. Thank you to all that have been faithfully following the team's activities so far, and for the prayers and support thereof. God bless!
-Josh George, filling in for brian kramer
Friday, June 11, 2010
Pictures from Waterford and Tramore
Victor and Heidi discussing Islam and sharing the gospel with some young men from Lebanon, in Waterford City Centre.
Josh (above) and Victor (below) sharing from the Word at the Waterford Christian Assembly midweek meeting.
Our accommodations in Tramore.Trip to Waterford and Street evangelism
Yesterday (Thursday), the team set out from Dublin after a light breakfast and headed down to Waterford. We arrived just after 12 noon and touched base with David Wilson, who brought us up to speed as to the work that will be taking place over the course of the next five days. After a much needed time of rest, the team headed over to Waterford Christian Assembly for the Thursday night prayer meeting. After a time of prayer, Victor and Josh both shared from the word. Victor spoke on the importance of Christian character in our witness, and Josh talked about the eternal security of a believer.
Today (Friday) began with breakfast and a devotion led by David on 1 Thessalonians, after which the team headed out to begin the job of delivering the 4You magazine to the Waterford area. After lunch the team headed out to Waterford city centre to begin some rather informal street evangelism, approaching people going about their business in the downtown core with tracts and literature, and striking up conversations while they were at it. The team was in good spirits with the number of good contacts and good conversations that were had pertaining to the gospel. Two Lebanese muslims in particular conversed with Heidi and Victor for well over an hour, and the talk left for good grounds for follow up. As Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest for the Waterford downtown core, the team plans, God willing, on returning to the same place tommorow and continuing their work there. Pray for boldness and endurance for the team members as they approach people in the streets, and as the trip winds down to its last four days of ministry work on Irish soil. Pray for the houses to which the magazines were delivered and that hearts would be opened up to the glorious news of the Gospel!
-Josh George, filling in for Brian Kramer
Today (Friday) began with breakfast and a devotion led by David on 1 Thessalonians, after which the team headed out to begin the job of delivering the 4You magazine to the Waterford area. After lunch the team headed out to Waterford city centre to begin some rather informal street evangelism, approaching people going about their business in the downtown core with tracts and literature, and striking up conversations while they were at it. The team was in good spirits with the number of good contacts and good conversations that were had pertaining to the gospel. Two Lebanese muslims in particular conversed with Heidi and Victor for well over an hour, and the talk left for good grounds for follow up. As Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest for the Waterford downtown core, the team plans, God willing, on returning to the same place tommorow and continuing their work there. Pray for boldness and endurance for the team members as they approach people in the streets, and as the trip winds down to its last four days of ministry work on Irish soil. Pray for the houses to which the magazines were delivered and that hearts would be opened up to the glorious news of the Gospel!
-Josh George, filling in for Brian Kramer
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Kids' Club pictures
Iveth and Joan with Praveen Jose at the Gleesons.
Learning the memory verse - Kids' Club, Shankill.
The puppets tell the Bible story - Kids' Club, Shankill.
The "parachute" is a great draw at Kids' Club!Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Doors and Kids Club
Regina and Darwin joined the team for breakfast in the morning, and after a time of prayer and devotional from Brian, we headed back out into the neighborhood, picking up where we left off from yesterday's door to door ministry.
Heidi and Victor had a long conversation with a man by the name of Rob, a passive fellow, who discussed evil and suffering in the world, and how these instances point towards a God, as a result of sin. Rob promised to read the literature that he was left with and expressed genuine interest to find out more about the Bible's answers to lifes questions. They also spoke to a man by the name of David, who was selling electricity contracts in the neighbourhood, who was 100% certain that there was such a thing as absolute truth, that there was a God and he was wanting answers. After a brief discussion of the biblical infidelity in the Catholic church, and being visibly excited of finding out more about what the Bible has to say about the three questions (1. where did we come from, 2. why are we here, 3. where are we going), he was left with the 4You magazine and contact information. Remember these two individuals in your prayers!
Josh and Darwin chanced upon two separate born again women in their allotment of the neighborhood, both of whom had husbands who aren't currently walking with the Lord. Darwin was able to share from his experiences and provide words of encouragement. The second woman who they met just so happened to be leaving her home, headed to Glenmaris to inquire about a tree at the edge of the building's property that was blocking shade in her back yard. She invited them in for coffee, and they soon found out that she was a Methodist woman, who had been raised in the Brethren church. Her husband, Victor, 91, (able bodied and not looking a day over 80) was of the same Brethren upbringing, but as he himself expressed, didn't believe or like to discuss religion. But as the conversation progressed, it appeared that Christianity was all he could talk about; and he surprised them with his memory, as he recounted events in his life that simply could not be explained by coincidence, and Darwin joined in along the same line of talk. The wife concluded, as they left for lunch, that it was no accident that they had met and Josh and Darwin were inclined to agree. Pray for Victor!
After lunch, the team distributed a few more sets of the 4you magazines to unreached neighborhoods, and began Kids Club at 4 in the afternoon. The weather had shaped up and the team enjoyed a solid turnout of kids from the neighborhood, and the games (Victor, Heidi, Sheelagh), puppet show story (Josh and Callie), and memory verse teaching (Iveth, Joan, Heidi) proceeded smoothly by the grace of God. A definitive answer to prayer! Praise the Lord.
After activities wrapped up with the Kid's Club, the team enjoyed dinner in the evening at the Gleeson's residence.
Thank you to everyone the world over who has been following the blog and has been faithfully praying. The team, God willing, will be heading down to Waterford in the morning to begin the week's ministry there, so pray for journey mercies and endurance for the team as they shift gears!
-Josh George, filling in for Brian Kramer
Heidi and Victor had a long conversation with a man by the name of Rob, a passive fellow, who discussed evil and suffering in the world, and how these instances point towards a God, as a result of sin. Rob promised to read the literature that he was left with and expressed genuine interest to find out more about the Bible's answers to lifes questions. They also spoke to a man by the name of David, who was selling electricity contracts in the neighbourhood, who was 100% certain that there was such a thing as absolute truth, that there was a God and he was wanting answers. After a brief discussion of the biblical infidelity in the Catholic church, and being visibly excited of finding out more about what the Bible has to say about the three questions (1. where did we come from, 2. why are we here, 3. where are we going), he was left with the 4You magazine and contact information. Remember these two individuals in your prayers!
Josh and Darwin chanced upon two separate born again women in their allotment of the neighborhood, both of whom had husbands who aren't currently walking with the Lord. Darwin was able to share from his experiences and provide words of encouragement. The second woman who they met just so happened to be leaving her home, headed to Glenmaris to inquire about a tree at the edge of the building's property that was blocking shade in her back yard. She invited them in for coffee, and they soon found out that she was a Methodist woman, who had been raised in the Brethren church. Her husband, Victor, 91, (able bodied and not looking a day over 80) was of the same Brethren upbringing, but as he himself expressed, didn't believe or like to discuss religion. But as the conversation progressed, it appeared that Christianity was all he could talk about; and he surprised them with his memory, as he recounted events in his life that simply could not be explained by coincidence, and Darwin joined in along the same line of talk. The wife concluded, as they left for lunch, that it was no accident that they had met and Josh and Darwin were inclined to agree. Pray for Victor!
After lunch, the team distributed a few more sets of the 4you magazines to unreached neighborhoods, and began Kids Club at 4 in the afternoon. The weather had shaped up and the team enjoyed a solid turnout of kids from the neighborhood, and the games (Victor, Heidi, Sheelagh), puppet show story (Josh and Callie), and memory verse teaching (Iveth, Joan, Heidi) proceeded smoothly by the grace of God. A definitive answer to prayer! Praise the Lord.
After activities wrapped up with the Kid's Club, the team enjoyed dinner in the evening at the Gleeson's residence.
Thank you to everyone the world over who has been following the blog and has been faithfully praying. The team, God willing, will be heading down to Waterford in the morning to begin the week's ministry there, so pray for journey mercies and endurance for the team as they shift gears!
-Josh George, filling in for Brian Kramer
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Photos from the travelers and a birthday
Tommy playing "Amazing Grace" for the group.
Joan talking to Scott at the travelers' site.
Group shot at the travelers.
Heidi sings for two of the traveler girls.
Celebrating Frank Carolan and Danny Gleeson's 60th birthdays during the Shanganagh Bible Church retreat. Hard to believe Danny is that old![Reposted] Retreat concludes + Magazine delivery + Visit to the travellers
The morning (Monday) began with another hearty breakfast courtesy of Shanganagh Bible Church, followed by Dr. Van Dine's conclusion to his session in the book of Romans. The weekend's meetings covered all of chapters 6 through 8. After lunch we finished delivery of the 4You magazines to the remaining areas in our allotment here in the Shankill area, and at 4 in the afternoon started up Kids Club on a nearby green. The weather was rainy, and didn't make for the best conditions for a big turnout from the neighborhood. The three local girls that showed up, however, enjoyed a brief time of games, led by the team. After about twenty minutes, and the weather showing no signs of immediate improvement, the team retired to the Shanganagh assembly building.
Later on, the team went over for dinner at the Moriarty's residence (Jim + Kathy), and after good food and fellowship, paid a visit to a nearby traveler's (gypsies) encampment just outside of Rathnew, Co Wicklow. It was quite the experience for all the team members, as we were struck with not only the warming hospitality of the travelers, but their receptivity and questions regarding the Gospel.
A traveler by the name of Tommy invited us into his trailer home as soon as the team arrived on site (we had met Tommy at dinner at the Moriarty's place). After we had all taken a seat, and had made small talk (Tommy was visibly comfortable with his cigarettes and Guinness within hands reach, reclined on the sofa), the team broke out into song with Heidi leading onto the guitar. Both Tommy and one of the fellows staying with him, Scott, graciously listened as Brian spoke on the words from the song "In Christ Alone", explaining the simple Gospel concepts in the chorus. Also seated in the living room was Mary (a traveler girl, 12 years old who was saved on a similar TnT excursion last year), Katlyn (8), and Ciara (10), and they listened earnestly during the singing and as Brian spoke. Afterward, Iveth shared her testimony, followed by Joan, Victor, and Callie later on. Whether it was out of politeness or genuine interest, the travelers appeared to be listening intently and had many questions after the team had shared. The atmosphere was extremely casual in nature, and conversations were going left right and center, all pertaining to scripture. During all the talk, another traveler by the name of Michael arrived after an 8 hour drive from Belfast, and despite his visible weariness joined right in with the conversations that were had.
To start, Heidi was involved in an intense discourse with the girls Katlyn and Ciara, and was also encouraged to learn that Mary who professed Christ as Saviour last June was continuing on for the Lord, despite being alone in the faith amongst the turmoil of family and the gypsy lifestyle for the past year. Heidi noted that the bible that was given to Mary last year was worn and looked like it had been read quite a bit. She also told us that Mary had been scorned by those around her for the faith she appears to proudly cling to. Ciara was visibly excited by all the things she had seen and heard from the informal meeting that had just taken place in the living room of the trailer, and was absolutely pelting Heidi with questions as Heidi led her through scripture and the biblical means of salvation. After a long talk, Ciara excitedly expressed her wanting to be saved, and the girl Katlyn made a similar plea. Ciara spoke of getting a tract from her trailer that she had which outlined the 'sinners prayer' that she could pray that would do the job. Heidi strongly advised against this, suggesting to Ciara that there wasn't any set of specific statement one could read off a paper to come to God. Heidi simply told Ciara to believe on the Lord Jesus, and to express this faith in a prayer from her own heart. Ciara and Katlyn both made a profession of faith last night, and there was excitement written all over their faces as Iveth told them that the angels in heaven were rejoicing over the occassion. It truly was an encouraging sight to witness, and the prayer going round was that Ciara and Katlyns profession was founded on a simple, saving faith, and not the emotions of the moment. The amazing fact of the matter was that Mary, Katlyn and Ciara don't live at the Rathnew site, as they were only visiting. They were all supposed to have left town earlier in the afternoon, but decided to stay one more night. Truly amazing!
In the meantime, Brian was engaged in a deep discussion with Scott, who had made a profession two years ago, but in his own words, had fallen away as a result of events in his life that had caused him to blame God. Scott's mom is dying of cancer, and feels God is punishing his mom for what he has done in his life. His claim was he wanted nothing to do with God, but the fact that he sat and listened and talked for as long as he did about spiritual matters seemed to suggest otherwise. His biggest issue was with the concept of forgiveness, and a lot of the problem was that he was beating himself up over the the wrong in his life, as much of this may have had to do with his Catholic upbringing and his perception of wrongdoing and blame. Brian prayed with him, and left him with a Gospel of John to read. Scott also struck up conversation with Joan and Josh, Joan who empathized with Scott's cancer in the family, and was able to share words and scriptures of consolation.
As this was all happening, Ernie was having a talk with a thirteen year old, Gary, who was also in the trailer the whole time, and was given a bible by Joan, who remembered him from the TnT Team's excursion last year. Ernie guided him through the basic concepts of scripture and showed him how he should go about reading through the gospels, he also answered the many questions Gary had about the bible.
While all this was going on, Victor was engaging Michael (who is married and has a child) in conversation concerning the reason for suffering and evil in the world. Joan and Iveth went over various scripture with him. He had a lot to share from his own experience and despite having the a rough and tough exterior, and a past of alcoholism and drug use, he was very calm and gracious, and intently listened to what was shared by the team.
Overall the reception was overwhelming, and it was quite the work of God that was witnessed last night in Rathnew. For all that are following the blog, the team requests prayers for all those that were spoken to, and especially for Katlyn and Ciara, that they would bear fruit and continue steadfastly in Jesus Christ, amidst the difficulties of gypsy life. Also pray for improvement in the weather, so that the kids club can operate in ideal conditions, and that there would be a good turnout for that ministry. Doors were knocked this morning and will be continued to be knocked tomorrow...continue to pray in this regard, both for the hearts of the residents and for the team as they handle rejection and/or are given the opportunity to share the Gospel. A number of good conversations have been had already this morning, and we are hoping for more receptivity in the days to come.
Thursday, the team leaves for Waterford to begin our work their. Pray for journeying mercies and for a smooth transition, as shifting gears in the work is always difficult.
-Josh George, filling in for Brian Kramer
Later on, the team went over for dinner at the Moriarty's residence (Jim + Kathy), and after good food and fellowship, paid a visit to a nearby traveler's (gypsies) encampment just outside of Rathnew, Co Wicklow. It was quite the experience for all the team members, as we were struck with not only the warming hospitality of the travelers, but their receptivity and questions regarding the Gospel.
A traveler by the name of Tommy invited us into his trailer home as soon as the team arrived on site (we had met Tommy at dinner at the Moriarty's place). After we had all taken a seat, and had made small talk (Tommy was visibly comfortable with his cigarettes and Guinness within hands reach, reclined on the sofa), the team broke out into song with Heidi leading onto the guitar. Both Tommy and one of the fellows staying with him, Scott, graciously listened as Brian spoke on the words from the song "In Christ Alone", explaining the simple Gospel concepts in the chorus. Also seated in the living room was Mary (a traveler girl, 12 years old who was saved on a similar TnT excursion last year), Katlyn (8), and Ciara (10), and they listened earnestly during the singing and as Brian spoke. Afterward, Iveth shared her testimony, followed by Joan, Victor, and Callie later on. Whether it was out of politeness or genuine interest, the travelers appeared to be listening intently and had many questions after the team had shared. The atmosphere was extremely casual in nature, and conversations were going left right and center, all pertaining to scripture. During all the talk, another traveler by the name of Michael arrived after an 8 hour drive from Belfast, and despite his visible weariness joined right in with the conversations that were had.
To start, Heidi was involved in an intense discourse with the girls Katlyn and Ciara, and was also encouraged to learn that Mary who professed Christ as Saviour last June was continuing on for the Lord, despite being alone in the faith amongst the turmoil of family and the gypsy lifestyle for the past year. Heidi noted that the bible that was given to Mary last year was worn and looked like it had been read quite a bit. She also told us that Mary had been scorned by those around her for the faith she appears to proudly cling to. Ciara was visibly excited by all the things she had seen and heard from the informal meeting that had just taken place in the living room of the trailer, and was absolutely pelting Heidi with questions as Heidi led her through scripture and the biblical means of salvation. After a long talk, Ciara excitedly expressed her wanting to be saved, and the girl Katlyn made a similar plea. Ciara spoke of getting a tract from her trailer that she had which outlined the 'sinners prayer' that she could pray that would do the job. Heidi strongly advised against this, suggesting to Ciara that there wasn't any set of specific statement one could read off a paper to come to God. Heidi simply told Ciara to believe on the Lord Jesus, and to express this faith in a prayer from her own heart. Ciara and Katlyn both made a profession of faith last night, and there was excitement written all over their faces as Iveth told them that the angels in heaven were rejoicing over the occassion. It truly was an encouraging sight to witness, and the prayer going round was that Ciara and Katlyns profession was founded on a simple, saving faith, and not the emotions of the moment. The amazing fact of the matter was that Mary, Katlyn and Ciara don't live at the Rathnew site, as they were only visiting. They were all supposed to have left town earlier in the afternoon, but decided to stay one more night. Truly amazing!
In the meantime, Brian was engaged in a deep discussion with Scott, who had made a profession two years ago, but in his own words, had fallen away as a result of events in his life that had caused him to blame God. Scott's mom is dying of cancer, and feels God is punishing his mom for what he has done in his life. His claim was he wanted nothing to do with God, but the fact that he sat and listened and talked for as long as he did about spiritual matters seemed to suggest otherwise. His biggest issue was with the concept of forgiveness, and a lot of the problem was that he was beating himself up over the the wrong in his life, as much of this may have had to do with his Catholic upbringing and his perception of wrongdoing and blame. Brian prayed with him, and left him with a Gospel of John to read. Scott also struck up conversation with Joan and Josh, Joan who empathized with Scott's cancer in the family, and was able to share words and scriptures of consolation.
As this was all happening, Ernie was having a talk with a thirteen year old, Gary, who was also in the trailer the whole time, and was given a bible by Joan, who remembered him from the TnT Team's excursion last year. Ernie guided him through the basic concepts of scripture and showed him how he should go about reading through the gospels, he also answered the many questions Gary had about the bible.
While all this was going on, Victor was engaging Michael (who is married and has a child) in conversation concerning the reason for suffering and evil in the world. Joan and Iveth went over various scripture with him. He had a lot to share from his own experience and despite having the a rough and tough exterior, and a past of alcoholism and drug use, he was very calm and gracious, and intently listened to what was shared by the team.
Overall the reception was overwhelming, and it was quite the work of God that was witnessed last night in Rathnew. For all that are following the blog, the team requests prayers for all those that were spoken to, and especially for Katlyn and Ciara, that they would bear fruit and continue steadfastly in Jesus Christ, amidst the difficulties of gypsy life. Also pray for improvement in the weather, so that the kids club can operate in ideal conditions, and that there would be a good turnout for that ministry. Doors were knocked this morning and will be continued to be knocked tomorrow...continue to pray in this regard, both for the hearts of the residents and for the team as they handle rejection and/or are given the opportunity to share the Gospel. A number of good conversations have been had already this morning, and we are hoping for more receptivity in the days to come.
Thursday, the team leaves for Waterford to begin our work their. Pray for journeying mercies and for a smooth transition, as shifting gears in the work is always difficult.
-Josh George, filling in for Brian Kramer
TNT Ireland 2010 Team Photo
The TnT Team, with Darwin and Regina Gleeson, outside Glenmaris House, home of the Shanganagh Bible Church, in Shankill, Co Dublin.Sunday, June 6, 2010
SBC Retreat continues
The team broke bread this morning with the members of Shanganagh Bible Church, and after a time of worship, Dr. Van Dine continued his session in the book of Romans and the concept of resurrection living.
After another spectacular lunch, a few of the team joined up with a handful of assembly members and went out to the Sugar Loaf, a mountain just ten minutes from our lodgings here in Glenmaris house. The trail was about a half hour hike up from the car-park, and the summit offered a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding towns, not to mention the nearby Irish sea.
The day served as a time to recharge the batteries and unwind before the pace picks up in the days to follow, God willing. It was a time of good food and good fellowship.
The team traveled out to Bray, a neighboring town about ten minutes away, to a small assembly there (which has been in existence since before the second world war), where Brian was given the opportunity to share from the pulpit from the book of Acts, along with a special number sung by Heidi, and Josh sharing his testimony. It was an encouraging time for both parties and the team will be returning on Tuesday night for their weekly bible study, God willing.
The team returned to the Shanganagh church just as Jim wrapped up his second to last session in the book of Romans, having finished up to the midpoint of Chapter 8. Soon after, both the team and the assembly enjoyed a special time of worship and heard a number of testimonies and encouraging stories that truly lifted the spirits, and did the job of setting our sights and hearts on the work that is laid out before us, in Jesus name.
Tomorrow, God willing, Kid's club will start up. This as well as some additional magazine delivery and the first round of door to door work here in the Shankill area. Jim will also be finishing up his sessions in Romans and the hope for the team is to pay a visit to the gypsies (also known as 'travellers'), and get involved in any way we can on this rather interesting evangelical front. In all these areas, prayers are requested, that all would be done in the strength of Christ, and not by the arm of flesh.
-Josh George, filling in for Brian Kramer
After another spectacular lunch, a few of the team joined up with a handful of assembly members and went out to the Sugar Loaf, a mountain just ten minutes from our lodgings here in Glenmaris house. The trail was about a half hour hike up from the car-park, and the summit offered a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding towns, not to mention the nearby Irish sea.
The day served as a time to recharge the batteries and unwind before the pace picks up in the days to follow, God willing. It was a time of good food and good fellowship.
The team traveled out to Bray, a neighboring town about ten minutes away, to a small assembly there (which has been in existence since before the second world war), where Brian was given the opportunity to share from the pulpit from the book of Acts, along with a special number sung by Heidi, and Josh sharing his testimony. It was an encouraging time for both parties and the team will be returning on Tuesday night for their weekly bible study, God willing.
The team returned to the Shanganagh church just as Jim wrapped up his second to last session in the book of Romans, having finished up to the midpoint of Chapter 8. Soon after, both the team and the assembly enjoyed a special time of worship and heard a number of testimonies and encouraging stories that truly lifted the spirits, and did the job of setting our sights and hearts on the work that is laid out before us, in Jesus name.
Tomorrow, God willing, Kid's club will start up. This as well as some additional magazine delivery and the first round of door to door work here in the Shankill area. Jim will also be finishing up his sessions in Romans and the hope for the team is to pay a visit to the gypsies (also known as 'travellers'), and get involved in any way we can on this rather interesting evangelical front. In all these areas, prayers are requested, that all would be done in the strength of Christ, and not by the arm of flesh.
-Josh George, filling in for Brian Kramer
Weekend with Shanganagh Bible Church
Victor outside Dublin Castle
Josh and Victor at the Islam info booth in Dublin
Shanganagh Bible Church enjoying a meal together outside Glenmaris House, the assembly's new home, during its annual retreat
Welcoming Ivett Bustillo, our new team member - we're glad she finally made it!
Dr. Van Dine speaking on Romans 6-8 during the SBC retreat
Saturday, June 5, 2010
S.B.C meetings + Downtown excursion
Resuming the weekend retreat, the team joined with assembly members at Shanganagh Bible Church this morning for a 'full' Irish breakfast complete with authentic blood pudding. After a time of fellowship, Jim Van Dine continued his thought provoking study in the book of Romans, covering the first part of chapter 6.
A light lunch of soup and sandwiches followed, after which the team (along with a few of the assembly members) disembarked to the Dublin downtown core, in the hopes of joining up with Vincent for some street evangelism. An unexpected change of plans found ourselves walking to the Chester Beatty museum instead, where the world's largest manuscript collection of the Pauline epistles are found on display (dating back to around 100 AD). On the way the team was able to strike up a number of conversations in the hustle and bustle of downtown, and a number of tracts were also distributed to passers by.
After our visit to the museum, and a stroll through Trinity College campus, the team headed back to the church building for supper, after which another 100 leaflets promoting the Kid's Club were distributed to the neighborhood immediately surrounding the church.
Jim ended off the day with another session in Romans, covering the rest of Chapter 6.
God be thanked, another member was added to the TNT team, Yvette, who arrived this morning, safe and sound, and has already been out on our excursions. She has an eager spirit and is a valuable addition to the team!
Your prayers would be appreciated as, God willing, the Kid's club will be starting up on Monday, and will go for an hour every afternoon till Friday. 600 leaflets were delivered to the Shankill area, so a fair turnout is expected. Also remember the residents to whose doors we will be knocking in the days to come, following up on the 4you magazines that were put out Friday afternoon. Pray that hearts would be prepared, and that there would be those that are ready to be engaged in conversations of a spiritual nature.
-Josh George
A light lunch of soup and sandwiches followed, after which the team (along with a few of the assembly members) disembarked to the Dublin downtown core, in the hopes of joining up with Vincent for some street evangelism. An unexpected change of plans found ourselves walking to the Chester Beatty museum instead, where the world's largest manuscript collection of the Pauline epistles are found on display (dating back to around 100 AD). On the way the team was able to strike up a number of conversations in the hustle and bustle of downtown, and a number of tracts were also distributed to passers by.
After our visit to the museum, and a stroll through Trinity College campus, the team headed back to the church building for supper, after which another 100 leaflets promoting the Kid's Club were distributed to the neighborhood immediately surrounding the church.
Jim ended off the day with another session in Romans, covering the rest of Chapter 6.
God be thanked, another member was added to the TNT team, Yvette, who arrived this morning, safe and sound, and has already been out on our excursions. She has an eager spirit and is a valuable addition to the team!
Your prayers would be appreciated as, God willing, the Kid's club will be starting up on Monday, and will go for an hour every afternoon till Friday. 600 leaflets were delivered to the Shankill area, so a fair turnout is expected. Also remember the residents to whose doors we will be knocking in the days to come, following up on the 4you magazines that were put out Friday afternoon. Pray that hearts would be prepared, and that there would be those that are ready to be engaged in conversations of a spiritual nature.
-Josh George
Friday, June 4, 2010
A good day in Shankill...
We just returned from distributing 500 invitations to next week's Kids' Club here in Shankill, along with over 1000 Ireland 4You magazines. Even with just six of us to distribute, we are so thankful that the Lord helped us to cover the areas requested by Frank Carolan: Holly Park, Clanmawr, Rathsallagh Grove, Clifton Park, Eaton Wood Grove, and Shanganagh Cliffs estates, as well as a neighborhood in the heart of Shankill surrounding the seniors' center where the Shanganagh Bible Church used to be.
The Lord blessed us with a beautiful day for the work; please pray with us that many will read the magazines and respond to the free Bible/literature offers, and that many children will come to the Kids' Club on the "green" starting on Monday.
It isn't necessarily "fun" to letterbox "NO JUNK MAIL" doors and to have the magazine thrown in your face, but how minor that is compared to what so many of our brothers and sisters are suffering around the world!
The Lord blessed us with a beautiful day for the work; please pray with us that many will read the magazines and respond to the free Bible/literature offers, and that many children will come to the Kids' Club on the "green" starting on Monday.
It isn't necessarily "fun" to letterbox "NO JUNK MAIL" doors and to have the magazine thrown in your face, but how minor that is compared to what so many of our brothers and sisters are suffering around the world!
Letterboxing in Shankill
Ernie, Callie and Heidi letterboxing Ireland 4You magazines and invitations to next week's Kid's Club in Shankill.Thursday, June 3, 2010
Team trip and journey to Dublin
Yesterday (Wednesday), the team enjoyed a day to unwind. Accompanied by Colin Burnett, we traveled to the south western coast of the country, to Dingle Bay where, with God's provision of beautiful weather, we briefly hiked the hillside of the Atlantic coastline. After a tour of Muckross House, and a dinner in Killarney, and a stop by Ladies View on the way back to Newcastle West, the team settled back down for our last night in Newcastle West.
This morning, we packed our bags and readied for our departure from Newcastle west. Our week stay there was a huge encouragement to us, and the members of the local assembly there assured us the feeling was mutual. Continue to pray for the seeds that were sown in that town, as there were a number of good receptions and conversations had over the last few days, and Gospel literature distributed that would make for fertile ground on which the Spirit would work in the hearts of those who are interested and/0r seeking.
After saying our goodbyes, we left NCW for Dublin, leaving behind our new friends and shifting our focus to the work that is ahead of us in the Capital. After a three hour journey we arrived safe and sound at Glenmaris House, Shankill, the home of the Shanganagh assembly, where we enjoyed good food and good fellowship with Penny DeFouw and Frank & Grace Carolan, and got brought up to speed as to what the next few days have in store. First on the list is stamping and delivering the 4You magazines to the surrounding neighborhood, followed by door 2 door ministry in the days to come. Remember the team and the assembly workers here in your prayers as we get the literature out and strike up conversations of a spiritually pressing nature with the residents here in Dublin. Pray for the opening of Colossians 4 doors, that the Spirit could work and that we would be prepared to give an answer for the faith which we have! Pray that we would graciously deal with rejection and that our witness would be God-honoring and Christ-like.
-Josh George, filling in for Brian
This morning, we packed our bags and readied for our departure from Newcastle west. Our week stay there was a huge encouragement to us, and the members of the local assembly there assured us the feeling was mutual. Continue to pray for the seeds that were sown in that town, as there were a number of good receptions and conversations had over the last few days, and Gospel literature distributed that would make for fertile ground on which the Spirit would work in the hearts of those who are interested and/0r seeking.
After saying our goodbyes, we left NCW for Dublin, leaving behind our new friends and shifting our focus to the work that is ahead of us in the Capital. After a three hour journey we arrived safe and sound at Glenmaris House, Shankill, the home of the Shanganagh assembly, where we enjoyed good food and good fellowship with Penny DeFouw and Frank & Grace Carolan, and got brought up to speed as to what the next few days have in store. First on the list is stamping and delivering the 4You magazines to the surrounding neighborhood, followed by door 2 door ministry in the days to come. Remember the team and the assembly workers here in your prayers as we get the literature out and strike up conversations of a spiritually pressing nature with the residents here in Dublin. Pray for the opening of Colossians 4 doors, that the Spirit could work and that we would be prepared to give an answer for the faith which we have! Pray that we would graciously deal with rejection and that our witness would be God-honoring and Christ-like.
-Josh George, filling in for Brian
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Rose shares her testimony with the team
Tonight we had dinner at Rose's (one of the ladies in the NCW assembly), who shared her testimony with us. She has had a difficult life, but despite three years meeting with the Jehovahs Witnesses, she realized their teaching contradicted God's Word and she rejected it for the true Gospel of Jesus Christ.Tuesday update...
Kid's Club in the Village of Ardagh Today was another day of door-to-door work in Newcastle West and the Kid's Club in Ardagh. We started the day with praise songs and a devotional by Josh that encouraged us with God's eternal plan of redemption, and a time of prayer for the people we've shared with and for the day ahead.
A bright spot today was that Victor and Heidi had a long conversation with three guys who invited them in for tea and listened to the gospel. And even though the team is small this year (just seven of us right now), there were several good conversations today, including a young Catholic couple with many questions about problems in the church and the differences between Catholicism and Christianity.
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