PAMELA'S BLOG/DIARY...

ONE DOOR CLOSES AND ANOTHER ONE OPENS (23/8/10)

We had our first weekend indoors at the market.  It seemed a bit strange at first but we quickly adjusted.  We had a really good day on Friday and were really encouraged.  Saturday was a lot quieter for all stall holders.  We weren't that keen on moving but it worked out ok and has it's advantages over the coming weeks.  One door closes, another one opens.

Many of you had been praying about the application we had made to receive a grant of free Bibles.  This process has been ongoing for nearly a year now.  We were so disappointed to learn a few days ago that we were unsucessful in our application.  However, we were given another option of purchasing Bibles at a discounted rate and having them shipped directly to Kenya for us.  One door closes, another one opens.

We have been praying for a few years now about something else which we believe could benefit the ministry and the people of Kenya.  Previous enquiries had hit a dead end.  Within the past few days possibilities suddenly seem to be opening up quite uexpectedly from an unexpected source.  God's timing is perfect and He brings things together in His time and not our time.  Hopefully we will be able to share more details about this within the next few months.  One door closes, another one opens.

God really is faithful.  We have seen Him work in very special ways in these last days which we will share with you in the coming weeks.  It is no wonder that we continue to quote the verse from Revelation, that God has set before us an open door and no man can shut it.  God may, in His wisdom, shut doors, but only when He has better ones to open for us.  NO MAN can shut the door that GOD has opened.  One door closes, another one opens.

MOVING AND PACKING (16/8/10)

After many months of waiting, we were finally advised to move our stall inside the market building to allow for work to take place on the footpath under our pitch.  So, on Saturday there was a lot of packing to do as we boxed up the items which had been on sale.  We now have moved temporarily inside and will be there for a few weeks.  The stall is much smaller but we have filled it with brand new stock, so we hope you'll come along and see us.

We have a good supply in of firewood blocks and have also begun to sell turf too.  We hope that firelighters will be available in the near future.  We hope you'll remember us when you begin to light your fires again!

Packing has also begun on the suitcases as we prepare to travel very soon.  We are so thankful for how God is answering prayer for each practical detail.  We are thankful for those who will watch over the stall and also our homes while we are away.  Most of all we are thankful that God is watching over us, and every aspect of the trip.

GOING TO KENYA! (9/8/10)

We are so excited that, within the past week, we have booked our flights to Kenya.  A few of us  will travel at the end of August and will be there for a number of weeks.

As you can imagine there is a lot to do before we go.  Getting vaccinations up to date, planning the programme, sorting accommodation and car hire etc.  We are grateful for the help being given to us by numerous people in Kenya and appreciate the effort they are going too to help us.

We will travel by a new route this time....Dublin, Amsterdam, Nairobi.  Pray that God will keep us safe and help during the long journey.  Pray also that our luggage arrives safely as it will contain quite a lot of teaching materials, items for the children and tools and equipment for the practial work.

Once in Kenya we will travel many miles, spending time in Nairobi, Nakuru, Kisii, Kisumu and surrounding areas.  Because of the distance travelled, the amount of tools and materials we will have and also in considering dad (who just turned 70 on 6 August!) it is essential that we have a good reliable 4 x 4.  At the minute most quotes are coming in at over £1000.  Please pray that God will lead us to the right company and provide the need.

During the trip some team members will be busy painting and doing repairs in Schools and Churches.  We know that many require assistance in this way and we believe that creating a bright, safe and comfortable environment will really benefit the children we are seeking to reach.

I will be teaching at two training seminars for Pastors and Children's workers.  This is a ministry I really enjoy and am looking forward to.  Each seminar lasts for 15 hours spread over 3 days.  30 hours of talking!  Most would say that isn't a problem for me!!!  Seriously, I would appreciate prayer that my voice holds out.

All of us will be involved directly with the children at different times.  We also look forward to attending our first Kenyan wedding.  Pray it will be a blessed day.

We have taken a huge step of faith in booking the flights.  We felt so sure it was the right time to go that we have gone ahead believing that God will provide the few thousand pounds which is still needed to accomplish all that is planed for the trip.

If you are not on our mailing list and would like to receive updates while we are away, please contact me by emailing feedmylambschildrensministry@yahoo.co.uk

PRAYER IS STILL NEEDED (19/7/10)

We realise more and more that prayer is the answer to every aspect of our work.  It is holiday season here in Northern Ireland, but we do plan to organise more prayer meetings once things return to normal.  We are also conscious that it has been quite a while since we last issued a prayer letter and so we hope to have another one done soon.

Hopefully it will contain news about our next trip.  We do believe that God is opening the door for us to travel again very soon.  With that in mind we are looking at dates, thinking of a programme and trying to plan.  We hope to conduct at least one training seminar but hopefully two, be involved in practical work, directly evangelise children and visit centres where children study our course, including new areas where we haven't been before.  As usual, we just won't be there long enough to do everything we would like too.

Financially....we are getting there....and thank God for that....but we still need considerably more to do everything which we have mentioned above.  Please make this a matter for prayer, we believe God will provide all which is needed.  Pray also that some practical issues regarding dates will be sorted soon.

As yet the Bibles which were despatched to Kenya do not seem to have arrived.  They really should have been there by now.  Please pray that we will have good news regarding this very soon.

Please remember the ongoing needs regarding office rent, printing of lessons and more Bibles.  These are all urgent needs.

Pray on for Pastor Aringo and those who assist him in the office, for Pastor Meshack in the Kisii area and also we especially ask prayer for Joyce as she has quite a lot on her plate at the moment.

Remember the market ministry too.  We believe this is now an important part of our work.  The entire complex was closed this past weekend because of the holidays but we look forward to reopening this weekend as normal. 

Thank you for your continued prayers. Praying and showing an interest in the work means more to us than anything.

BLOG READERS (5/7/10)

A big thank you to those of you who continually read our blog and keep up to date with what we are doing.  William was so delighted last night to speak to a really lovely family who keep constantly up to date with what he and the rest of us are doing.  It was great to hear of older folk too who follow our activities.  It is so encouraging to hear how people share our news with each other and it certainly puts smiles on our faces!  We know that a few members of the same family have great artistic talent in producing posters and it is great to know that we can call on them in the future should the need arise and they would be willing candidates for whatever task would be required!

As yet, the Bibles still have not arrived in Kenya.  Please pray concerning this.

Pray for myself as I teach the lessons of Joseph again at the Holiday Bible Club in my home Church this week.

Thank you for remembering the service on Friday evening when William, his brother and 6 others were baptised.  We trust the Lord will bless them all in the days which lie ahead.

The photos below; taken after the Baptism service; show myself and William and also William with the Bible I gave him as a present to remember the occasion.

BUSY DAYS (28/6/10)

Pray for the continued running of the office in Nairobi.  The distribution and marking of lessons is a huge job and requires quite a bit of organisation.  Remember also our representatives, distributors and markers in other areas.

Pray that the Bibles which have been posted will soon arrive safely and in good condition.

I am so thankful for God's help as I taught each night at a Holiday Bible School last week.  I know that I personally was challenged and spoken to as I prepared the lessons on Joseph.  Next week I will teach the lessons again from Monday to Friday at another HBS.  Pray that the children who have heard, and will hear, God's Word will determine to live for God as Joseph did.

Please make the market ministry a priority in prayer at the moment.  Things were very quiet at the weekend because of the work in the street and indeed the town.  Every trader in the market is suffering and this is their livelihood.  We still are unsure when we have to move our stall inside and as a result we don't want to put out too much new stock, however we really could do with some fresh items.  The problem with going ahead with new stuff is that it makes more work in moving but also we don't want the items on sale ruined by the dust which is causing unbelievable problems at the moment.  Please pray that sales will continue, that we will be able to meet the rent and make a profit for the work.  Again, we are encouraged as we believe God still wants us there and that things will return to normal when the public realm work is complete.

Please pray for William as he is baptised at a special service this Friday.  He has waited for quite a while for this opportunity and we are really looking forward to a special evening.  As he takes this step of obedience to the Lord, we have no doubt that the enemy will try to discourage or cause trouble.  Pray that William will know God's protection and be blessed in the coming days.

BLESSINGS (21/6/10)

We thank God that a small amount of Bibles are on their way to Kenya.  Pray that they arrive safely and in good condition.  Pray that more will soon be on their way.

Please continue to pray for us as we plan our next visit to Kenya.  We believe God is answering prayer as we can see some of the practical issues being dealt with.  Keep praying.

We are fighting a never ending battling with dust at the market these days.  The work on the footpaths continue in the street and progress seems slow.  Trade is definitely suffering as a result, not only with the FML stall but with all of the traders.  As our stall is outside we are falling victim to the dust in a big way.  Pray that it will soon be over and things back to normal.

Children's Day in my Church went really well yesterday.  All of the children tried really hard and did their best.  There was lovely singing, great readings from scripture and reciting of poems and some great musicians.  A good day was had by all.  The spears and shields which William made did the job well and the little soldiers looked the part.  The programme which I organised was for the morning service and was based on being a soldier for God and fighting against the enemy, with the story of David and Goliath being weaved in.  My two nephews also did so well.  One read scripture and a poem and the younger one said a "Welcome" poem and sang an action chorus with other children his age as well as being one of the soldiers.  Well done!

This week I am teaching at a Holiday Bible Club in William's Church.  The Lord really helped tonight at the first meeting and blessed each one who took part.  Pray that boys and girls will come to know the Lord as a result of this outreach.

EXPLOSIONS IN KENYA (14/6/10)

Yesterday (Sunday 13 June) a rally was being held in Uhuru Park in the centre of Nairobi.  This was in connection with a referendum which will be held at the beginning of August.  There were 2 explosions and the latest news from Kenya suggests 5 people were killed and 75 injured.  Please pray that there will be calm in the country and tensions will not build in the run up to voting on 4 August.  Please also pray for those who have been injured or have lost love ones.  It has been reported that a 10 year old boy was one of those who died.  You can read some more from the BBC and view a brief video by clicking HERE

Meanwhile we continue to thank God for His provision for the work.  We are thankful that for another month we have been able to pay the office rent and cover other running expenses.  We have also received some more gifts designated to paying off the amount owing for Bibles.

We had been praying and investigating the possibility of holding a new event in a few months time here in Northern Ireland.  It seems as if that may have to be postponed for another month or two, but as one door closes another opens and we are beginning to be encouraged that a trip to Kenya may just happen.  We are still praying about this but are very encouraged and would almost dare to be excited.  Please pray with us that God will make His will and time very clear, make the crooked places straight in regard to a few hurdles and provide every penny or shilling which is needed.

Continue to remember those who are faithfully serving with FML in Kenya.  Pray that God will bless them and their families.  Pray with us for the salvation of boys and girls through the work God has called us all to.

The market was quiet at the weekend as far as people were concerned but the sale of another 4 tubs helped to keep things moving on.  Please continue to pray.  We still do not have a date for moving the stall due to the public realm work but are trusting that God's time is perfect.

Other news:

Pray for me as I teach the Bible Lessons at a Children's week every evening from Monday 21 - Friday 25 June and again from Monday 5 July - Friday 9 July.  This involves a lot of preparation from now on.  Am still unsure as to what I will be teaching during the July week, so pray that will become clear.  The June week also involves a lot of travelling so pray for safety.

Pray for William as he will be baptised at a special service on 2 July.

Dad had a great trip away and arrived home safe and well, though quite tired.

William's dad is showing slight signs of improvement after being injured just over a month ago.  Pray that he will be healed completely.

William's brother arrived home safely from Bible College in America.  He will return in August as he has another few years to study.  Pray for his girlfriend in America as she is touring at the moment with a Gospel singing group.

My nephews continue to keep me busy and are looking forward to the school holidays.  They will both be taking part in our Children's Day services this coming Sunday.  Remember their parents and my other brother and his wife in England.

May God Bless you as you stand with us in prayer for the work and for us as individuals.

CHILDREN'S RALLY (31/5/10)

Joyce was really encouraged with how the rally went on Saturday, describing it as "powerful".  We thank God for another opportunity to share the Gospel with the boys and girls and pray that the seed which was sown will bring forth much fruit. 

Remember the children who are beginning our lessons for the first time.  Just over a week ago, one centre took over 500 lessons and were returning for another 290.  So many children are studying our lessons now.  Pray much that we will soon be able to print a large batch of lessons.  

We had a good weekend at the stall, especially on Friday, with garden tubs being the best seller at the moment.  The Lord really helped William to get all of the orders done and up to date...and he still managed to get the shields and spears done for me for Sunday School as well! 

Pray for those who will travel this week both locally and further afield.  Remember my dad as he heads away for a few days with his brothers and also pray for William's brother as he returns home for 2 months from Bible College in America.  Pray for good health and travelling mercies.

PRAY ON! (24/5/10)

Thank you once more for your prayers over another weekend.  It was a busy morning at Sunday School as we practiced for our children's day services.  I also had opportunity to share, along with 3 other missionaries, at the annual convention in my home Church.  The Lord helped.  Please pray that those who attended will take the work of FML upon their hearts and remember us consistently and continually before the Lord.

Please pray for Joyce as she plans for the children's rally in Nakuru this coming Saturday. (29th).  Pray that she and those who will help her will know God's leading in all of the preparation this week.  Pray that many children will come along and have open hearts to hear the Word of God.  We long that children will be saved as a result of this outreach.

Please pray for Billy and May who normally help us at the market on Fridays.  Billy badly broke his wrist a few weeks ago and is unable to drive, meaning that May is unable to get to the stall as they live quite a distance away.

Please pray for William's dad who also sustained a serious injury a few weeks ago and is experiencing very little improvement.

Continue to remember each individual who works with FML in Northern Ireland and Kenya.  We each need your prayers as we continue to be conscious that we are in a battle for the Lord and the devil is always ready to attack just when we aren't expecting it.

GREAT DAY AT THE MARKET! (16/5/10)

Friday was a reasonable day at the market considering things have been quieter these past few weeks.  However, Saturday was a really excellent day.  Things were quiet to begin with, which is normal enough first thing on Saturdays.  William and I went to get something to eat and when we returned Dad had sold £27.00 worth of items.  That was a brilliant start.  My aunt had made some craft items containing treats and we sold some of those and later we sold 4 garden tubs followed by our last garden chair.  Somone else also showed interest in purchasing a chair.  Next came the order for 11 bags of blocks for next week, then an order for 2 tubs for next week and all on top of an existing order for 50 bags of blocks which are to be delivered in 2 weeks time!  Isn't God good??

William makes the tubs, chairs and wells from barrels and he also cuts and bags the blocks.....so he has a very busy time ahead of him to keep up with the orders and all on top of his normal work.  Pray that he will have the time needed.

Dad seems to hold the record for the best seller at the market.  Sometimes we have sold nothing, go for a break and come back to find dad with a long list of what he has sold!  In just over 2 weeks time he is going away for a week. (A 70th birthday present a few months early!).  I'm wondering how we'll sell without him! ha ha.  Seriously, do pray that he and the others will all be kept in good health over these next few weeks, before, during and after their trip.

Last week I didn't get too far with the paperwork I had to do.  Pray this week will be better.  I also have meetings on Monday, Thursday and Sunday so pray that the Lord will help at these and with the preparation involved for them as each is a different format.

Continue to remember all those in Kenya.  I am thankful for such a dedicated and praying band of people.

GOD IS GOOD (10/5/10) 

Thank you to all who have been praying for us these last few days.  The stall was busier this weekend and we were very conscious that people had been praying for us.  We are thankful for every sale and for another potential large order for blocks.  God is good.

Joyce held a very positive planning meeting on Saturday with those who will help her at the children's rally.  Due to a death, the rally has now been postponed until 29 May.  Do pray for Joyce as she sends out invitations, hopefully later this week.  The last rally was very sucessful and made a great impact, resulting in many children enrolling on our course.  Pray that this one will also be profitable and that children will trust the Lord as Saviour.  Ideally, Joyce would like to present Bibles to the 200 children who are ready for them, at the rally.  Please pray that God might provide these in time for the rally.

Pastor Aringo was due to present more Bibles yesterday and we look forward to hearing his report on how that went.  Pray that God will really help the boys and girls as they read the Word of God.

This week I have a lot of paperwork to do in the office and ask that you pray for this important part of the work.   However, I'm also looking forward to a day off this week which I hope to spend with William.  I normally work in the office Monday - Thursday as well as minding my nephews before and after school and am then at the market on Friday on Saturdays and teaching Sunday School on Sundays.  So a day off, after the boys go to school, will be lovely!

On a more personal level thank you for praying for me as I put together the children's day programme for our Church.  It is now complete and while the singing practices continue, I am now beginning to distribute the poems and scripture verses among individual children so they can learn them.  William is also helping me with some visuals.  It is coming to the time of year for Children's Day services.  I have had to turn down invitations from 3 different Churces to share at their Children's Day services because they are all on the same day as meetings I'm already involved in!

We continue to appreciate your prayers for the work in the coming days.  We very much need wisdom each day but we're so happy that we have a God who promises to instruct us and teach us in the way we should go.

MORE BIBLES (3/5/10)

We're delighted that Pastor Aringo was able to present more Bibles yesterday in Kenya.  Unfortunately very heavy rain meant that some children were unable to attend as some of the roads became very muddy and difficult for people to walk on.  However, we are thankful for those who did make it and we pray that they will be blessed.

Please remember the urgent need for more Bibles.  The few which are left are all accounted for.  650 Bibles are needed NOW in various areas.

Please continue to remember the Children's rally which is planned for next week.  Pray that children will come to know the Lord.

Thank you also for remembering the market.  It was very quiet this past weekend....not just for us, but for most of the stalls there.  Unfortunately the roadworks in town are getting closer to us and are definitely affecting trade.  It seems a lot of people just don't want the hassle of avoiding traffic cones and machinery.  Areas are fenced off in town and it seems that you have to take the "scenic" route to get anywhere. 

Last week, work commenced in William Street, which is where the market is.  They will do the opposite side of the road before coming across to our side and working up towards the market.  At that stage we will have to move indoors.  However, even though they haven't reached us yet, it is getting harder to get parked in the road and access is becoming more limited for cars.  As a result less people are coming up each week.  We know that this is a temporary problem because of the roadworks, however, shiny new footpaths, especially unecessary shiny new footpaths, don't provide Bibles!

Please pray much for us over the coming weeks.  The work is behind schedule and that is working to our advantage, but we still need the Lord's help.  Pray that people will still continue to come and purchase from us.  We are pleased that we had an order for 50 bags of sticks, so every cloud has a silver lining.  We remain confident that the market is still an important ministry and we know that things will look up when the work is completed.

Please also remember the other market traders.  Running a stall and sometimes travelling to other markets, is actually very hard work with a lot of early mornings in all sorts of weather.  The other traders depend on this for their livelihood and work hard for every penny they make.  Pray that their trade will not be affected any more than it has already.

If you're in the area of Portadown, why not come along and support us and the other traders at this time.  As well as our stall, you can also purchase fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, flowers, clothes, cakes and pastries, jewellery, computer accessories, rugs and mats, knitted items for children, greetings cards and good Christian books.  We would all be delighted to see you and appreciate your support.

PRAYER MEETING REPORT (26/4/10)

We would like to thank those of you who remembered the FML prayer meeting which was held in Portadown on Friday past.  We appreciate the support of those who joined us and also those who assured us that they were praying for us elsewhere; particularly those who contacted us from Africa.

It was a new venture for us and I for one was a little nervous.  Although it was not the first FML prayer meeting; it was the first one we had arranged ourselves in the area.  We hit a few teething problems when we arrived at the venue; but these were quickly sorted out by a very helpful member of staff.

Dad was able to distribute chorus books and a prayer aid leaflet which we had printed.  We trust that this leaflet will have given a little extra information to those who came and will help them pray for us in their own homes.

The meeting began with William opening in prayer and leading some choruses accompanied by myself on the keyboard.  After this I showed a powerpoint presentation updating people on the work in Kenya and also the market outreach.  Following this we spent about 30 minutes in prayer.

Although we would like a bigger turnout in the future; considering this was the first meeting of this kind in the area and also that I am speaking in another venue locally this week; we were generally encouraged with how things went.  Invitations were generally only sent to the Co.Armagh area for this particular meeting as we hope to hold similar meetings in other areas in the months to come. 

Latest news from Kenya is that the children's rally in Nakuru is planned for the second week of May.  A planning meeting will be held at the beginning of the month.  Pray that those involved will know much wisdom and that children will be saved as a result of the rally.

Photos have been received from Pastor Aringo of his trip to Mombasa.  You can view the Bible presentation photos and some of Pastor Aringo himself during the trip by clicking HERE  and scrolling to the bottom of the page.

Feed My Lambs now has a page on FACEBOOK; why not become a fan if you're already on FB.  You can find us at www.facebook.com/feedmylambs.org.uk

PRAYER MEETING (20/4/10)

We are now making final preparations for the FML prayer meeting which will be held in Co.Armagh this weekend.  We are currently praying for opportunities to hold similar meetings across the country and trust these will be profitable.  We hope those who join us will find the meeting informative with updates on the work among the children and an opportunity to pray for the ministry as a whole.  Whilst this meeting is primarily for those of the Co.Armagh area, we do welcome anyone who is born again, has a genuine interest in the work and a desire to pray for FML.  The Lord knows those who will attend and their motives for doing so.  We look forward to updating you on the meeting next week.  In the meantime, do pray for all of the arrangements and that God will really bless each one who attends.

Do continue to pray for Pastor Aringo and those who help in the office in Nairobi.  Remember Pastor Meshack as he leads a crusade (campaign) and for the children who will take part.  Also, pray for Joyce as she holds another meeting with teachers within the next few weeks and plans for a children's rally.

Back in Northern Ireland, it seems that one practical issue we have been praying about may have been answered, but there is just one more detail which needs to be confirmed.  Please pray that God's will may be done.

The street work at the market is now running behind schedule, so our stall is still in the same place.  We are hoping the delay will continue as this may work to our advantage.

The cancellation of flights in and out of the UK may affect some items we have posted to Kenya.  Do pray that these will arrive on time and not be lost en route.

GOD IS GOOD! (12/4/10)

God continues to encourage us in the work of God.  We are thankful for a good weekend on the stall.  Some of the new items were sold on Saturday just after they were put out.  We were also given quite a lot of items by a few people...some new, some used and some handmade.  We have put a few out and will put out the remainder this coming weekend.  We appreciate the time, effort and generosity shown by many.

We are also considering introducing a new project at the market which will hopefully drawn people's attention to one of our projects.  Please pray for confirmation concerning this.

Also, we are in the early stages of beginning a new project in Kenya which will promote the work of FML.  This particular outreach is something that a few of us in the UK have thought about at times, mentioned in passing and prayed about occasionally, but had never mentioned to anyone in Kenya.  Just a few days ago, one of our workers in Kenya contacted us with the same idea and vision.  We really felt that perhaps God was opening this particular door and that it was something we should investigate further.  Do pray for those in Kenya who now have the responsibility of looking into this further and pray that we will know guidance as to the way ahead.  We feel that this ministry would be an asset to the work of FML and we also believe that it is something which our Kenyan friends can really organise well.  We are also encouraged to hear those in Kenya make suggestions and have visions for the work of God with no other motive than bringing the Gospel to the lost and furthering the work of FML.

God has been encouraging us these past few weeks with those who work with us in Kenya.  We are thankful for the work they put in and the committment they show.  We were just rejoicing last week to hear the stand which one of our workers took among other children's workers when one brought ideas which were contrary to the vision of FML.  Pray that each one who serves in FML, whether in Kenya or FML, will continue to faithful to the Word of God and prepared to take our stand for what is right.  Unfortunately, not everyone who has been involved with us in the past have been with us for the right reasons, there have been a number of people who have had wrong motives.  Months and years on we still find ourselves trying to pick up the peices financially...but God is faithful and we look to Him and not man.

Encouragements have also come this past week with the booking of a number of meetings with both adults and children.  We continue to thank the Lord for these openings.  Generally we do not contact people to ask for meetings but leave it to the Lord to put it on the hearts of people to contact us, this makes it all the more encouraging when opportunities are opened up to us.

Please continue to remember the urgent need for Bibles.  We have been able to send off an amount to be deducted off what is owing for Bibles but we still owe a considerable amount of money and we urgently need another 250 Bibles. 

It has been lovely to have a few days off over the Easter period from childminding and FML.  My nephews are with me today, but as they go back to school tomorrow, I will be back fully into FML work.

Thank you again for your continued prayers for the salvation of boys and girls.

"AS COLD WATERS TO A THIRSTY SOUL, SO IS GOOD NEWS FROM A FAR COUNTRY" PROVERBS 25:25 (7/4/10) 

It's always good to hear news from Kenya.  We are thankful to the Lord that Pastor Aringo has now returned from a very successful trip to a very hot Mombasa.  Everything went well and he found it a great experience.  Pray for the children who received Bibles.  We look forward to sharing some photos soon.

Joyce and some children's workers in Nakuru are planning a rally for next month.  200 children are ready for Bibles in that area.  More details later.

We also have good news from Pastor Meshack from Kisii.  50 children are ready for Bibles in that area.

Invitations have been received to visit Eastern and North Eastern provinces to see further the openings there and the interest in the work.

Yesterday we obtained some new stock for the stall which we hope will sell well.  As yet we do not have a date for the temporary move inside the market complex.  The orders for sticks continue to keep William busy and we were delighted to sell a garden well last weekend.  We also continue to appreciate Dad's help at the market and also Billy and May who assist weekly and pray much for the work.

We continue to be thankful for God's provision for the work and ask you to continue to pray that all our needs will be met.  We are also glad of the opportunities we have to share the work of FML.  Another booking came in today for a meeting in a few weeks time and we are also looking forward to the FML prayer meeting on 23 April.  If you are born again, with a genuine burden for, and interest in, the work, then you are welcome to attend.

We trust you had a lovely Easter and enjoyed spending time with family and friends.  I enjoyed spending yesterday with William and today with dad.  God is good.

ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE WITH GOD (31/3/10)

What a precious promise this is...God will never withold something that is for our good.  Again we have seen God answer prayer and we praise Him for that. 

We had asked you to pray for the market last weekend.  Thank you for doing that, we took in more money last weekend than we had in the previous few weeks.  We also have an order for this weekend for 12 bags of sticks and a possible order for another 50.  Thank you for praying.

Thank you also for praying for the organising of a trip to Mombasa in Kenya for a Bible presentation.  We are thankful that, God willing, Pastor Aringo will travel there this Friday evening and arrive on Saturday morning.  It could take 10 or 11 hours I am told and the roads tend to be bumpy!!!  Pray that he will even get some sleep as he travels overnight and be excited about all that is planned for the time he will spend there.  We also appreciate Pastor Aringo's committment to God's work as he has chosen to travel over a holiday period when he should have been having a weekend off from the work of FML.  This says alot about his dedication and calling to the work.  Pray that he will have a safe journey and much to report of the outreach in that area.

We are thankful for a good landlord in our office in Nairobi and that the complex has a watchman on the gate.  Please pray for the continued security of our office especially over the holiday period. 

Do continue to pray for us here as we need God's help, encouragment and the knowledge that people are standing with us.  Pray specifically that we will know God's mind on current issues we are praying about and that we will be of one mind with Him.

"1   All things are possible to him

That can in Jesu's name believe;

Lord, I no more Thy name blaspheme,

Thy truth I lovingly receive.

I can, I do believe in thee'

All things are possible to me.

2   'Twas most impossible of all

That here sin's reign in me should cease;

Yet shall it be, I know it shall;

Jesus, I trust Thy faithfulness!

If nothing is too hard for Thee,

All things are possible to me.

3   Though earth and hell the Word gainsay,

The Word of God shall never fail;

The Lord can break sin's iron sway;

'Tis certain, though impossible.

The thing impossible shall be,

All things are possible to me."

IN HIS HANDS (24/3/10)

It's such an encouragement to know that every aspect of the work of FML is in God's hands and He continues to guide and direct.  I mentioned previously how we anticipate changes in one area in Kenya over the coming months.  We have been praying much about this and seeking God's will.  It has been encouraging to discover that in some aspects God has already gone before and is preparing the way leaving us pleasantly surprised.

We realise that it is prayer that will continue to sustain the work.  With that in mind, we would like to give advance notice of a prayer meeting for the work which will be held in Portadown on Friday 23 April 2010.  We hope you will join us if you live in the area.  A brief update will be given of the work.  More details to follow.

Do continue to remember all who serve the Lord in Kenya.  They really need your prayers as they continue day by day.  The work has spread throughout the country and we thank the Lord for His promise that when He opens a door, no man can shut it.

I have a lot of office work to try and get done this week and am wondering how I'm going to get it fitted in.  I also need to complete the children's day programme for my home Sunday School this week.  Do pray.

Remember the ministry in the market each Friday and Saturday.  The road works in the town do seem to be affecting trade.  Last week was very quiet.  We do ask you to pray that God will help us during these weeks of disruption.

THE WORK CONTINUES (18/3/10)

The after school Bible Club (Scripture Union) on Monday went well.  I was encouraged with how well the children listened.  I was able to share just a little about our work in Kenya whilst bringing the Gospel to the children.  There was also encouragement for the Christian child to pray for Missionaries and those who sacrifice family etc. to bring the Gospel to others.  Following the talk we had a quiz and the children answered really well.  Do pray for these boys and girls, that they might follow the Lord.

William is so busy at the moment with lots of calfs entering the world in addition to other work.  Do pray that the Lord will give him the help needed.  He still continues to be much involved at the market stall as does my dad.  Do pray for us as we return to the market tomorrow and Saturday.  We trust we will have a good weekend of selling and witnessing.

Pray for Joyce as she continues to work among the children in Nakuru and for Pastor Meshack in the Kisii area.  Also Pastor Aringo and those in Nairobi.  Do also remember Children's workers who partner with us in many other areas of Kenya.  Pray for so many who teach and go through the lessons with the children.  We want the boys and girls to really grasp the truths of God's word.

MARKET, BIBLES AND CHANGES (14/3/10)

Following a meeting between market traders and contractors in town, it seems that there is no choice but to pack up our stall.  The work will take place sometime over the next two months and it was agreed that we would be given 3-4 weeks notice of this.  Currently it is estimated that we will have to move inside to the main market for 2 weeks.  We're not that excited about the prospect of this as there will be alot of work involved in moving our stock and displaying it inside.  However we have to make the most of the situation and are thankful that we won't have to close completely for the duration of the work.  Pedestrian excess will be restricted to one door at the front of the building rather than the existing two, but we will remain open for business throughout.  Please pray that there will be as little disruption as possible in the street and that there will not be any negative impact on trade.  The other stall holders rely on the market for their income, so it is vitally important that things continue as near to normal as possible.  Please pray for this.  We will keep you updated.

We now need to obtain quite a large number of Bibles to meet the demand of the children who are studying and have been praying as to how this would be possible.  We do believe that God is opening doors.  Until now, purchasing Bibles in Kenya itself had not been an option for us.  We had been advised that the Bibles we were distributing cost twice the price in Kenya than they do here in Northern Ireland.  However, we now know that we were very ill advised from what has turned out to be a very unreliable source.  We now have made contact with a few suppliers in Kenya who can offer us the Bibles at competitive rates.  The exchange rate between the Kenya Shilling and the UK pound is currently very low, but even at that, one supplier can provide us with the Bibles for only 50p a copy more than here in Northern Ireland.  So it seems that purchasing in Kenya in the future may be an option after all.  We thank God for showing this to us.  However, meantime, we still are praying that our grant application for free Bibles may result in a positive outcome.

This week it has become evident that the next few months will bring some changes in our ministry in one area of Kenya.  These changes bring us new challenges that we wouldn't necessarily have chosen, but may also bring new opportunities which we are excited about and look forward to seeing how God will lead.  We know that it is all happening for a good reason and so we have peace that all will work out for good.  Do pray that we will know guidance and wisdom over the coming months and will know exactly what God is saying to us regarding these issues.

A meeting we had to share at last Monday was very encouraging and we thank God for His blessing.  We were also encouraged that, what was originally meant to be a ladies' meeting was opened up to the entire congregation so that the men too could be updated on the work of FML.

Tomorrow I will be speaking in a Scripture Union in a Primary School about an hours drive from home.  I have been to this school a few times before and am thankful for the opportunity to return.  Do pray for me as I do final preparations in the morning before setting off for the school.

MINIMAL DISRUPTION (8/3/10)

At the minute there is a lot of work going on in the town centre of my home town; replacing footpaths etc.  There seem to be workmen everywhere!  Work is due to start later this month in William Street; the street where the market is; and is scheduled for 8 weeks.  Unfortunately a meeting I attended this morning regarding this gave us the news we had dreaded.  It appears our entire stall will have to be packed up and moved as the pavement under our feet is to be replaced.  There is a possibility of relocation inside the market building for a few weeks.  A meeting is planned between the contractors and market traders for this weekend while the market is open.  Do pray that all will work together to ensure minimal disruption as we depend on the market income so much for our ministry.

LOTS TO DO (2/3/10)

This past week I have really enjoyed working on some more lessons for the children in Kenya, though I still have some more to do to be happy with them.  William, being the artistic one of the team, has also been helping me with some of the illustrations/activities which will be included in the lessons.

William has also managed to get us a supply of "turf" which we can now sell on the stall along with the firewood.

Dad, despite having a cold, managed to help out again at the stall this past weekend.  Pray that the Lord will continue to use this ministry for His glory.

I had the opportunity to speak at a meeting in Belfast on Friday evening and was really encouraged by the ladies who were present.  They were very interested in the powerpoint presentation and had lots of questions afterwards.  We left them with the challenge of 1 Samuel 1 and how Hannah prayed earnestly for a child.  The challenge is there for us all to pray with all of our hearts for the children of Kenya.  The phrase from the passage; "For this child I prayed", left us all very clear as to our responsibility.

Please continue to remember Pastor Aringo, Joyce, Pastor Meshack and many others who are valuable team members in Kenya.  Without them the work would not continue and we appreciate all of their labours for the Lord.  There is much responsibility with the work and they need much wisdom in all they do.  Children continue to enrol at quite a rate.

Please continue to pray for the provision of Bibles and that an application made for a grant of free Bibles would be successful.  Pray earnestly for our Charity registration here in the UK.  This continues to be a difficult process.  I have another meeting with our Christian solicitor this afternoon which we pray will be profitable.  We are totally legal meanwhile, but registration would bring financial benefits for the ministry.

We are grateful to have received the gift of an industrial photocopier for our office here in Northern Ireland.  Whilst it doesn't colour copy, it does have the advantage of producing copies up to A3 size and of course being quite fast.  This will be very useful in providing larger visuals etc.

Following a meeting last Thursday evening of the Sunday School teachers of my home Church, I have been given the responsibility of putting together one of the two programmes for our Children's Day in June.  This is when the children take part in song, poem, Bibles recitations etc. and the parents normally gather in.  The theme is "The Christian Soldier/Armour" etc.  My role is to find materials which can be used and; together with items which other teachers will supply; put them in to some sort of a programme for the children.  It is a few years since I last did this and am really looking forward to working on this.  William has come up with a few ideas for visuals, so he'll be busy too!

Thank you once again for your prayers, practical and financial support.  We need much wisdom in these days and ask you to pray much that God will lead and guide in the coming days and that we may see the desires of our hearts fulfilled.

THE LORD CONTINUES TO HELP (23/2/10)

We had a good meeting at the weekend and were encouraged once again by the support from those present.  We also had two good days at the market and can see sales increasing gradually.  The first few months of the year are typically slower but we thank God for His help.

Pray for a group of children in Kenya who were presented with Bibles on Sunday.  As usual we emailed over a message to be read to them and we hope this will have encouraged them that many people are praying.

Pray for Joyce in Nakuru as she continues to faithfully minister for the Lord and for Pastor Meshack, Pastor Aringo and others who help in Kenya.  They need your support, prayerfully and financially if they are to continue to serve.  Pray that the Lord will bless others who volunteer as markers.

Pray for William who is 100% called to the work of FML and has a heart to serve and to do the Lord's will in his life.  His is a very practical ministry but yet a vital ministry.  Pray that the Lord will continue to give opportunities for him to be actively involved in the work.

Remember my dad and pray that the Lord will continue to encourage him and give him the strength needed day by day.

Last week became so busy that I haven't managed to complete the Gospel tract or lessons as yet.  Pray that the Lord will help me to do this in His time. 

Later this week I have a meeting with other teachers of children and ask that you pray this will be a profitable meeting.  Pray also for another FML meeting at which I will be sharing this week.  Again, I need God's direction as to what to share and whether or not to use photographs on this occasion.

Remember again the need concerning the Bibles and pray over the application which has been made to obtain more.  Keep praying for our charity registration also.   God always provides what we need and we are thankful for every gift, however, we would love to see more people commit to donating a regular monthly amount, even £5-£10 can mean a lot when we know it is guaranteed each month.

The hectic schedules of people over here and not wanting to clash with other Church meetings and missions have meant that we ourselves haven't held the planned regular FML prayer meetings as yet.  We are currently looking at dates for one in Co.Armagh and also for a venue for another area.  Again, if you would be interested to hold such a prayer meeting, either in UK, or in Kenya, please contact myself or Pastor Aringo for help.

Pray that the Lord will continue to be very near to us and have His perfect will in our lives.  We need guidance and wisdom in a number of areas of the ministry at this time.  We have so many thoughts and ideas and visions for the work, pray that God confirms His will and that we will know His mind in the work and in our personal lives.

Last night I attended a meeting where I heard a very challenging testimony.  I was reminded again of Abram who stepped out in faith at the call of God.  The passage in Genesis 12 spoke to me many years ago and indeed was preached at my farewell service when I was beginning Bible College.  I am thankful to the Lord for reminding me of this challenge last night and also answering prayer by speaking to me in other ways through the testimony.

ENCOURAGEMENTS (15/2/10)

We are thankful that this weekend was slightly busier at the market.  We had a good run of customers on Friday and on Saturday the orders for firewood were collected and additional bags sold.

Sunday was Valentine's Day.  It was a good day to take the love of God as a theme for my Sunday School class.  I reminded them from the Bible of the story of the Good Samaritan who showed love and of course the love of God in giving His son Jesus and the love that Jesus showed in dying for us.  A few months ago William had made me a heart shaped visual for use in teaching Bible Lessons.  I discovered yesterday that it was also good to use as a quiz with the children.  They were happy with the heart shaped chocolates which I gave them.....just to keep on the same theme. 

Today I have been talking to Pastor Aringo.  Thankfully his son is better again and the baby is improving.  She had been unable to eat, but managed to take some fruit yesterday.  We continue to pray.

The demand for lessons continues.  This week I need to complete the writing of a few lessons as they are needed very soon.  Our supply of Bibles in Kenya are quickly being awarded.  Stock is getting low and it is thought that those which remain will be finished within the next 6 to 8 weeks.  We have some in our office here, pray that we will know guidance as to how to get the Bibles out and God's provision to do so.

I am also currently working on a children's tract based on the Kenyan Matatu. (minibus service).  Pray that I will know God's help in making this simple for the children to understand as well as making sure it is culturally correct.  I would like to see it completed within the next week or so, after which it will be proof read by some here and also in Kenya to ensure it is suitable and then it will be designed and hopefully printed very soon.

Our Charity Registration is STILL not complete.  Please make this a matter of PRIORITY when you pray.

We thank God for His provision yesterday.  This was a real answer to prayer.  We had a specific need in Kenya and we needed to be sending the money out today at the latest, but we didn't have the money.  We were praying much about this.  Yesterday we were given a gift which covered the need with some left over.  Praise God!

Please pray for us as we share the work of FML at another meeting later this week.  Pray that Lord will help in preparation and show us exactly what format the meeting should take.

Pray also for another idea which we have in our minds at the moment.  I had been thinking about it and mentioned it to another member of the team, only to discover they had been thinking the same thing.  Pray that we will know what way to go about this.

Please remember to pray for the congregation of William's Church.  They are holding a 3 week Gospel mission, starting last night.  It is on weeknights at 8pm and Sunday evenings at 7pm. (No meeting on Saturdays).  If you live around the Omagh area you would be very welcome.  Contact us if you need more details.  Pray that many would be saved as a result of this outreach. 

My nephews are off school today and tomorrow for half term.  As I look after them during the day while their parents are at work, I won't be spending much time in the office for the two days.  This means more work for the evenings and for Wednesday and Thursday.

Thank you for your prayers and support.  Please remember that we continue to be available for meetings in houses and Churches, with children or adults, both here in Northern Ireland or in Kenya.  Also, in Kenya, a representative would be pleased to visit you to explain more about the lessons so that you may prayerfully consider enrolling the children in your care.

Mungu Akubariki sana. (God Bless you very much)

LOVELY PHOTOS! (9/2/10)

I was so excited yesterday to receive an email from Pastor Aringo with photos of more children receiving Bibles.  In total, 55 boys and girls were awarded a copy of the Word of God on this particular day.  As well as the lovely photo on our home page, you can also scroll to the bottom of our photos page to see some of the others which he sent me.  Can you spot the future preacher?

Do continue to pray for those who continue the work in Kenya.  Remember Joyce in Nakuru and Pastor Meshack in Kisii as well as those in our Nairobi office.  Many children continue to hear the Gospel and we praise God for that. 

Do remember Pastor Aringo's children who have been suffering sickness of late.

Pray that we will soon be able to get more printing done as this is a major ongoing need.  We are also really praying that we can soon arrange another trip out and ask that you continue to remember this need.  We thank God for the guidance which He continues to give us day by day.

The market was slightly quieter this week past so we are praying that this incoming weekend will be a little busier.  We are thankful that the firewood blocks we have been selling have been going well and we have orders for 16 bags for this weekend.  Do pray for William as he puts in the work of cutting and bagging the blocks in order to keep up with demand.

I am thankful to the Lord for His help as I spoke at a meeting on Sunday evening past.  I believe there was a sense of God's presence and I know the Lord challenged me through His word as I prepared.  Do pray for those who normally attend the meeting who have been bereaved recently.  I look forward to returning the mission hall at the end of September.

Dad is keeping well and his knee is a lot better these days.  Do continue to remember the family circle after our recent loss of my aunt.

Thank you for praying for my health.  Although I'm not just feeling 100%, I am a lot better than I was.  Have still had to take the occasional pain killer and feel unwell at times when I eat a full meal, but other than that, my antibiotics have finished today and my throat is almost back to normal...so that means I can talk again!!!!!

We believe the devil is continuing to push us in these days, but we also believe the Lord is teaching us to rely on Him and that He can turn for good what the devil meant for evil.

DIFFICULT WEEK (1/2/10)

This week past has been very difficult for us.  I have been very unwell and eventually ended up in hospital one evening where I was given a Penicillan drip and sent home with more antibiotics, pain killers and sickness tablets.  Thankfully I'm feeling a lot better now and glad to be sleeping again, after 2 nights spent sitting up!  I've been able to stop the sickness tablets and only taking the occasional pain killer.  Am still not eating much, haven't had a full meal in over a week, but am making progress.

Then very late Thursday night/early Friday morning my aunt died very suddenly.  It was a massive shock to us all.  She was married to my dad's brother for over 50 years, so it is a big change.  Do pray for him and the family.  My dad has taken it quite hard as he visited every week and had only left a short time before she died.  My aunt, seemingly in good health at the time, had waved my dad off as he drove away.  Less than 2 hours later the news came that she had died.  The Lord really helped my dad as he read at the funeral (burial) service yesterday (Sunday 31 January 2010) and we believe that in itself will have been a testimony to the strength which the Lord gives in times like these.  Whilst it was a sad occasion, it was good to see family members whom we don't see too often and also it was good to have my brother and his wife come over from England on a flying visit to attend the funeral.

Otherwise we continue to thank God for His continued help to those in Kenya as they keep the work moving and pray that He'll help me to get back into things again.  We thank Him for His continued provision and also for a few bookings for meetings which I have received these past few days...one of which is a new opening for us.

GETTING DOWN THE LIST (17/1/10)

This week I've been gradually working down the list of things which needed to be done in the office here in Portadown.....but I haven't quite got to the end just yet.  Please pray for the incoming week as I continue to do some accounts, computer work, procedures for Kenya and preparation for meetings etc.

Thankfully it wasn't as cold at the market this past week.  We had quite a good day on Friday....surprisingly busy for January.  Wednesday and Thursdays are still on hold for a few weeks, but we still intend opening again on those days very soon.

If you receive our prayer updates you will know of an application we have made to receive Bibles, please pray for this as it is processed and that God will provide through this means if it is His will.  Pray also for our charity registration which continues to be a long drawn out process which we would love to see completed very soon.  We have also made initial enquiries about another project which we have been considering.  Pray that we will know God's mind on this matter.

This morning I taught the lesson of Joseph in Sunday School.  I also had a new child in my class today, bringing the total to 7.  Please pray for Rachel, Bethany, Janet, Grace, Daniel, Kezia and Eli.....mostly 3 and 4 year olds with some turning 5 before the end of the Sunday School year.  This is my favourite age group.....I just love working with the little ones.  My two nephews also attend Sunday School and never miss a week.  Dad, William and I had a great evening away with them on Friday past and are thankful for these precious times.

Please continue to pray for the team in Kenya.  We are thankful for the many people who help us and encourage us in the work.  We are grateful for those in keep in contact with us and pray for us regularly.  One Pastor we know has a child who has been quite ill over recent days.  The child is recovering from Malaria and is still very weak.  Pray that this little one will know complete healing and that the parents will know God's help and wisdom in every decision they must make in caring for their child and for provision for food and medication.

This incoming week I will be meeting with someone to discuss children's work and catching up with some family members too as we remember my grandmother who passed away 2 years ago.  Dad continues to help us at the stall and is keeping well.  William; in between feeding cattle and doing other jobs, is busy making a new stand for the stall to enable us to display Gospel literature and CD's in a better way than we do at the moment.  He also is working out to keep up the supply of firewood blocks which we sell at the market.

Pray also for William's brother who returns to America tomorrow to continue with his studies at Penn View Bible Institute

Do pray for us all as we seek to do God's will in every aspect of our lives.

THE BIG FREEZE (10/1/10)

Well I think Kenya would certainly be the warmer country to be in at the moment.  At times this week the temperature on this site has been showing 23 degrees in Nairobi and -5 degrees here in Northern Ireland.  It is unusual for the snow and frost to last as long and for the first time in my memory at least, the river in my home town is frozen over.

The weather has hindered the work a little in that a couple of meetings I was due to speak at have either been cancelled or else I wasn't able to get there because of the fog. 

At the market on Friday and Saturday there's no doubt it was the coldest we've ever experienced since we began.  The town was quiet, though Saturday was slightly busier than Friday.  Because of the weather we won't be opening next Wednesday and Thursday and will see how things go for the following week.  We will continue on Fridays and Saturdays as normal.

Back in Kenya and the team are getting back into the work.  This past week I received lots of photos from different centres of children receiving Bibles, this was encouraging.  I was also delighted to hear of interest in our lessons in another province in Kenya where we have not previously worked.  10 new centres are interested in enrolling their children on the course and a meeting is being planned for one of our representatives to go and speak with the children's workers there and eplain what is involved in the course.  This is great news and we continue to be so happy with the way the work is growing.  The Lord is faithful.

Wednesday 6 January was my birthday....and one of our team from Kenya sang Happy Birthday over the phone to me!  At home I had a lovely day with my nephews and dad and later enjoyed a visit from William. 

This morning we had an open Sunday school in our Church and I was responsible for the quiz.  Pray that the boys and girls there will be saved and will remember the lesson which was taught to them today about the person of God.

Please continue to pray for us all as individuals, both in UK and in Kenya and pray for the salvation of boys and girls.

HAPPY NEW YEAR (4/1/10)

CHILDREN'S RALLY (31/5/10)

Joyce was really encouraged with how the rally went on Saturday, describing it as "powerful".  We thank God for another opportunity to share the Gospel with the boys and girls and pray that the seed which was sown will bring forth much fruit. 

Remember the children who are beginning our lessons for the first time.  Just over a week ago one centre took over 500 lessons and were returning for another 290.  So many children are studying our lessons now.  Pray much that we will soon be able to print a large batch of lessons.  

We had a good weekend at the stall, especially on Friday, with garden tubs being the best seller at the moment.  The Lord really helped William to get all of the orders done and up to date...and he still managed to get the shields and spears done for me for Sunday School as well! 

Pray for those who will travel this week both locally and further afield.  Remember my dad as he heads away for a few days with his brothers and also pray for William's brother as he returns home for 2 months from Bible College in America.  Pray for good health and travelling mercies.