We've been in the trenches of transition since returning after the Christmas break in Wisconsin, its a bit more relaxed than the previous DTS season- but nonetheless, with its own challenges. As we look down the road of this year- its exciting. In August we will be traveling to Jamaica to come alongside Omar's parents in their ministry "New Beginnings" a boys' training home,(www.nbitc.org). Rev. Bob and Mary will be touring the States to cast the vision of their calling, while we oversee the ministry in Hanover, Jamaica. Omar is priviledged and excited to give back to the ministry that invested so much into his life. I will also be able to see the stomping grounds of Omar's childhood- I believe they bear great differences than good ole Green Bay, WI. This will be an adventure!!
Right now, we are extending our physical and spiritual hands in some different areas. There is a fabulous team here right now from Saskatoon, Canada, that is a huge blessing to the nation and people of Belize. Omar has been overseeing this team with the help of other staff members.
A great opportunity for YWAM lies in the lives of the young people. We are extending into the local high schools- specifically four schools and igniting Christian clubs to encourage and spur on the students. There is a group of staff members with specific schools they connect with to build relationships and influence the students. We are hoping these small groups would grow and that these young people walking with Jesus would set in their heart to love Jesus above all else. In two of the schools presently, we have the priviledge to teach during regular class periods- capitalizing on the subject of relationships, right choices and their values/standards. Following God doesn't have to be complicated, there is simple logic- if I love others, I don't want to hurt them - so, if I love God, I don't want to hurt Him.
Some of these same young people have attended our Legacy Youth conferences- we hope to continue to build the trusting relationships so that when these young people graduate to university, they will make right choices. The established influence they receive from God's values now will direct them all through their life- when they are the ruling officers of this nation.
Discipleship Training School for YWAM-Belize begins July 1st, 2008. We will be jumping in another year with this ministry. We have seen great fruit in the lives of the students of past years. Its an opportunity that we feel God's leading to be involved. Please pray with us that God directs the exact students He desires to attend this school. (A small shout out to Amanda, Art, Bryce, Frieda, Brian, Candice, Ev and Laura- small tears for last year's class).
We continue with our church youth group, serving alongside leaders, Dion and Andrea. As we reviewed this last year and look unto 2008- we set very specific goals with these students. The potential in these young lives is great and we're working to see these "maybe's" become reality. Please pray for the youth to cultivate a consistent relationship with God, that it would be their priority over anything else.
Prayer Points:
- Upcoming Legacy youth conference- March 7-10, 2008 (for the students and youth leaders)
- Our trip to Jamaica in August
- We're praying for a vehicle for the needs of our ministry/work here
- DTS in July
- YWAM launch into Belmopan- vision of coffee house, drop-in center, 24 hr. prayer/worship, dance studio and young people ministry center etc. (that God would provide all the people/materials/hands to make His dreams a reality)
Blessing to you...thanks for standing with us!!!
