“Giant steps forward: Praising God from whom all blessings flow!”
“Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts …” This hymn was going through all of our heads one Sunday a few weeks back as we reflected how in God's timing the Lubin city council voted unanimously for our church plant to receive at 1% of its value a large portion of land close to our current location. Our friend (not a believer) who sits on the council gave testimony that everything our church does is for people -- not for money or making a name for itself. It was encouraging to hear that our church is known as an active outward-focused group of people.
It is a blessing knowing that we will have a place that we can call our own and do so much more in this community reaching out to those that are lost and searching for meaning in life. The place that we are currently renting is seemingly getting smaller and smaller.
Another two songs that came forth two weeks ago were “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” and “Amazing Grace”. A number of months ago a lady who had been visiting the church for some time made the decision to give her life to Christ. In the process of being discipled, she wanted to be baptized. It just so happened that our mother church was also planning a baptism so we decided to join them for baptismal classes. Our son, Andrew, also wanted to be baptized. So Andrew, Dorota and I went to the prep classes. We then set a date for the baptism. Andrew and Dorota wanted the baptism to happen here in Lubin so as to be an example to those around of the decision they had made. On September 4th we had our first baptism. We borrowed a swimming pool and filled it up in our church parking lot. The whole service was wonderful as Andrew and Dorota reflected on their desire to follow Christ, not only accepting Him as their Savior, but following Him in baptism. The sermon the pastor gave was a very good sermon on baptism and what it is. As each person came up out of the water we sang, “I Have Decided”. At the end we had communion and closed the service singing, “Amazing Grace”.
We are also praising God for allowing us to have our first Bible camp. The team that came from McCoy Memorial Baptist Church was well prepared and full of love for the kids and expectation for how God would work in their lives. We had about 20 kids who came, heard the gospel and learned more about creation.
These three steps forward are gigantic. God is at work! Even if it is slower than we would like, it is true that precious lives are being changed and God is providing a place for this local body to be able to even have more opportunities to share their faith and to be a blessing to others.
We thank you for your encouragement through prayers and monetary giving. We ask you to praise God for these three giant steps forward. Also please pray for Dorota and Andrew that they would grow to become more like Christ. We also need prayer and wisdom in building a physical building. Pray that more people would see their need for a Savior.
Blessings,
Paul, Carlene
Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
Prayer Update
Praise
• Language school
Praise God for our students (children and adults) and parents of our students. God has given us many possibilities for sharing our faith through the building of relationships.
• Baptism / Salvation
We are praising God for the first baptism that we had. It was encouraging seeing Andrew and Dorota desire and follow Christ in baptism.
• Land
It is a real blessing and encouragement receiving land. Praise God for His provision.
• Bible Camp
Praise God for the Bible camp this summer. The 20 young people who attended heard the Gospel clearly. We are thankful for McCoy Baptist group who came to help us.
• Gospel Jam
Our II Gospel Jam Session went really well. We believe that it led people closer to God. Most that attended do not have real faith.
Prayer:
• Marriage Conference
On the 24th of September we are hosting a marriage conference. Please pray for all the organizational aspects but most importantly for people’s souls. As the Gospel is shared during the conference, please pray for a clear working in people’s hearts and minds.
• Gospel Jam
On the 5th of November we will be having our third Gospel Jam. We pray that the time we spend singing Gospel will be more than just a good time singing Gospel but it will be a time also reflecting on the powerful words that are being sung. We want this to be a time that would draw people closer to God. Pray that participants would see their need for Him.
• Film Night
On the 7th of October we are beginning a film discussion evening. Our first film will be Apollo 13. We will watch and then discuss the film from a Christian perspective
• Language School
“Logos” Language Center started last week. Please pray for the teachers – wisdom in teaching good English, boldness in clearly presenting the Gospel through their teaching. Pray for the 110 students and their parents (some are adults) that their eyes would be open and they would see the emptiness of religion. May they find an everlasting relationship!
• Kids
Please pray for Andrew, Aaron and Alaina that they would be strong in their faith and hold to the truth. Pray that they would have opportunities to share about the relationship they have in Christ.
• Unbelievers
Some of those who come to the fellowship still have not publically made a decision for Him. Pray for their salvation. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work in their hearts.
• Small Groups
We are looking at forming small groups that would meet during the week. We already have one group and a ladies group starting soon.
• Building a building
Prayer for wisdom and the resources to build a church building that would serve the community in the best way possible. It could be really easy to build a building and forget the people.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Friday, May 20, 2011
"Prayer At Unexpected Times Brings Results"
You could have heard a pin drop during our annual Gospel Workshop, while midway through rehearsing the song “speak to me” ...
verse: Speak to me, my Father
In a small voice
Reaching all my tears and sorrows
chorus: Hear me when I cry, my Father
Hear me when I cry
(Ruth lynch / shean roberts)
... one of our instructors looked the drummer straight in his eyes and asked if she could pray for him on stage right then and there. Prayer for most Poles is usually done at church or privately at home so this was quite unexpected.
The drummer who has played for us the last 5 years has not yet made a decision to follow Christ. He looked at her with big eyes not quite knowing what to do. He asked, “Me?” and she said, “Yes, you.” she asked the other two instructors to come up (one is a pastor in England, the other is Polish and from Kraków). They publicly prayed for him right on stage. It was an incredible moment as she prayed. The holy spirit was touching lives.
She had prayed specifically for him all year long and at that moment God wanted her to pray publicly for him. She did it even though other voices
Screamed for her not to.
Following this prayer, it was break time and some very interesting things happened. The base guitar player, an atheist, agreed to let an instructor pray for him, the drummer's girlfriend said she needed Jesus and made a decision to follow Christ and one other girl later on also made a decision for Christ.
It is wonderful how God leads us to pray at unexpected times. When listening to Him, we many times get unexpected and blessed results.
As a team, we feel blessed to be a part of what God is doing in building His church in Lubin. We thank you for your faithfulness in praying and giving.
Blessings,
Paul, Carlene
Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
Prayer update
The theme in our newsletter is, „Prayer At Unexpected Times Brings Results”. We are so thankful for those that have faithfully been praying. We want you to know that God is working in us and in those around us.
1. Upcoming Events:
• May 21 Ladies’ Tea – Pray for each woman that comes to the tea that they would be encouraged, strengthened, blessed and saved (if needed). Also for follow up with the women that come.
• May 26 Philadelphia Biblical University Choir – Pray that once again the Gospel would be boldly proclaimed and that those that come to the concert would see their need for a Savior and not just religion.
• May 28 Gospel Jam – This is a follow up to our Gospel Workshop in April. Pray for those that will come.
• June 3 Men’s get together – As the men get together from the church, we ask for the strengthening of our relationships and good fellowship.
• June 11 Block party – Prayer for opportunities to make Christ known in the community surrounding the church.
• July 25 – 31 Bible Camp – A team from McCoy Memorial Baptist Church (Elkhart, Indiana) and those of us in the church plant will be involved in the first Bible Camp the church has had. Pray for great unity among the entire staff, many kids to sign up, boldness in teaching and changed lives.
2. Jerry, our teammate, is going on home service in June and Lord willing, is planning on returning in December – Pray for his time in the US.
3. The on-going land and building process. The church is in the process of acquiring land from the city for us to buy it at 1% of its value. The City Council only needs to vote on it to make it official.
4. For planning and implementing a small group strategy for church growth – Wisdom as we begin looking at forming small groups among church members.
5. Pray for those that are in the church but not yet saved.
6. Pray for the two ladies that made a profession after our Gospel Workshops and the drummer and his friend that asked for prayer.
7. We are thankful for Louise Eisenhauer who could be with us for the last 6 weeks. She has been such a blessing.
8. We are thankful how mission work has and is impacting our own lives.
9. We are praising God for the forward momentum of work with the youth. Every other week the youth have been meeting for Bible study and prayer. There have been some good, fun relationship-building activities also.
10. We are praising God for how those in the church plant are starting to see their God given gifts and how they can be used within the local body.
11. Wisdom in being more proactive in discipleship.
verse: Speak to me, my Father
In a small voice
Reaching all my tears and sorrows
chorus: Hear me when I cry, my Father
Hear me when I cry
(Ruth lynch / shean roberts)
... one of our instructors looked the drummer straight in his eyes and asked if she could pray for him on stage right then and there. Prayer for most Poles is usually done at church or privately at home so this was quite unexpected.
The drummer who has played for us the last 5 years has not yet made a decision to follow Christ. He looked at her with big eyes not quite knowing what to do. He asked, “Me?” and she said, “Yes, you.” she asked the other two instructors to come up (one is a pastor in England, the other is Polish and from Kraków). They publicly prayed for him right on stage. It was an incredible moment as she prayed. The holy spirit was touching lives.
She had prayed specifically for him all year long and at that moment God wanted her to pray publicly for him. She did it even though other voices
Screamed for her not to.
Following this prayer, it was break time and some very interesting things happened. The base guitar player, an atheist, agreed to let an instructor pray for him, the drummer's girlfriend said she needed Jesus and made a decision to follow Christ and one other girl later on also made a decision for Christ.
It is wonderful how God leads us to pray at unexpected times. When listening to Him, we many times get unexpected and blessed results.
As a team, we feel blessed to be a part of what God is doing in building His church in Lubin. We thank you for your faithfulness in praying and giving.
Blessings,
Paul, Carlene
Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
Prayer update
The theme in our newsletter is, „Prayer At Unexpected Times Brings Results”. We are so thankful for those that have faithfully been praying. We want you to know that God is working in us and in those around us.
1. Upcoming Events:
• May 21 Ladies’ Tea – Pray for each woman that comes to the tea that they would be encouraged, strengthened, blessed and saved (if needed). Also for follow up with the women that come.
• May 26 Philadelphia Biblical University Choir – Pray that once again the Gospel would be boldly proclaimed and that those that come to the concert would see their need for a Savior and not just religion.
• May 28 Gospel Jam – This is a follow up to our Gospel Workshop in April. Pray for those that will come.
• June 3 Men’s get together – As the men get together from the church, we ask for the strengthening of our relationships and good fellowship.
• June 11 Block party – Prayer for opportunities to make Christ known in the community surrounding the church.
• July 25 – 31 Bible Camp – A team from McCoy Memorial Baptist Church (Elkhart, Indiana) and those of us in the church plant will be involved in the first Bible Camp the church has had. Pray for great unity among the entire staff, many kids to sign up, boldness in teaching and changed lives.
2. Jerry, our teammate, is going on home service in June and Lord willing, is planning on returning in December – Pray for his time in the US.
3. The on-going land and building process. The church is in the process of acquiring land from the city for us to buy it at 1% of its value. The City Council only needs to vote on it to make it official.
4. For planning and implementing a small group strategy for church growth – Wisdom as we begin looking at forming small groups among church members.
5. Pray for those that are in the church but not yet saved.
6. Pray for the two ladies that made a profession after our Gospel Workshops and the drummer and his friend that asked for prayer.
7. We are thankful for Louise Eisenhauer who could be with us for the last 6 weeks. She has been such a blessing.
8. We are thankful how mission work has and is impacting our own lives.
9. We are praising God for the forward momentum of work with the youth. Every other week the youth have been meeting for Bible study and prayer. There have been some good, fun relationship-building activities also.
10. We are praising God for how those in the church plant are starting to see their God given gifts and how they can be used within the local body.
11. Wisdom in being more proactive in discipleship.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
"What's Up?!"
Most likely, if you were to write a letter to us today, the expression that you would be using would be “What's Up?!” - In response, we would say “a lot, so much so that we are like a rolling stone that gathers no moss!”.
It was a real joy connecting with many of you this past summer. Since we’ve been back, we’ve been encouraged to see God at work. He is doing amazing things in and outside our local body of believers. Please find below some highlights:
- The youth ministry that we asked prayer for is in the process of coming
together. God is showing us key leaders, vision with stated goals are being
put into place and there is a growing passion for seeing our youth come to
faith in Jesus Christ, discipled and grow.
- The need to disciple and mentor key leaders is great. These key men are requesting it.
- The starting of a “5 Evenings” evangelistic Bible Study. We plan to repeat this study.
- Once a week Paul, has been doing visitation with those in and outside the fellowship.
- “It is not what you do but how you use what you do that makes a difference.”
- The local body is becoming more assertive in evangelism. We have some in the Fellowship
that have not decided to follow Christ yet. Some know they have to make a decision.
- There is a growing understanding of the role of the missionary.
- Our Language Center's Thanksgiving celebration went well with seeds planted, testimony
boldly given and turkey eaten with all the trimmings.
Thank you so much for your encouragement through prayer and financial giving. We give God the glory for what He is doing in people's lives - The local believers, missionaries and non-believers here in Lubin.
Blessings,
Paul, Carlene
Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
It was a real joy connecting with many of you this past summer. Since we’ve been back, we’ve been encouraged to see God at work. He is doing amazing things in and outside our local body of believers. Please find below some highlights:
- The youth ministry that we asked prayer for is in the process of coming
together. God is showing us key leaders, vision with stated goals are being
put into place and there is a growing passion for seeing our youth come to
faith in Jesus Christ, discipled and grow.
- The need to disciple and mentor key leaders is great. These key men are requesting it.
- The starting of a “5 Evenings” evangelistic Bible Study. We plan to repeat this study.
- Once a week Paul, has been doing visitation with those in and outside the fellowship.
- “It is not what you do but how you use what you do that makes a difference.”
- The local body is becoming more assertive in evangelism. We have some in the Fellowship
that have not decided to follow Christ yet. Some know they have to make a decision.
- There is a growing understanding of the role of the missionary.
- Our Language Center's Thanksgiving celebration went well with seeds planted, testimony
boldly given and turkey eaten with all the trimmings.
Thank you so much for your encouragement through prayer and financial giving. We give God the glory for what He is doing in people's lives - The local believers, missionaries and non-believers here in Lubin.
Blessings,
Paul, Carlene
Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
Monday, August 23, 2010
“Reports Warming And Exciting The Heart”
Dear Friends,
Over the last two and a half months we have heard many good reports from Poland: 13 decisions for Christ, one person close to making a decision for Christ, pointed questions being asked - How can we know we have fulfilled God's will?, a student Bible study started with growing interest, visitors being present during the church service and church members serving - taking up the slack while others are on vacation or serving somewhere else. These reports are exciting and warm our hearts. We so desire to once again join our team and be a part of what God is doing.
In less than one week we are scheduled to return to Poland. We have 3 current and URGENT prayer
1. Please pray for God’s support provision – There is still a monthly need of $633,33. If interested in sponsoring, please contact us right away using the information in the contact information box.
2. Pray as we return that we would quickly re-adapt and get into the swing of things - meeting with friends and contacts, church and language school.
3. Pray for our children as they start school September 1st.
Thank you for praying.
Paul and Carlene Eager
Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
Contact Information
Address: 57131 Sequoia Dr. Goshen, IN 46528
E-Mail: pauleager@ymail.com
Phone: 574.343.4665
574.875.3925
Sunday, August 8, 2010
"Tube from Heaven"
“Tube from Heaven”
Stripping off my wet suit, I moved into the transition area where I put on the rest of my cycling gear – helmet, shoes, gloves and of course, the power bars and gels. I checked the tire pressure one more time and ran to the starting line. Jumping on my trustworthy bike which had taken the punishment of hour after hour of training, I rode off with upmost confidence that there wouldn’t be any problems. I rode down the hill, and not even a mile away from the start, my front tire went completely flat. In that moment my whole world stopped - I realized that I didn’t have a spare, pump or proper tools. My heart sank. The only thought that I had was how this could’ve happened when I was just starting to embark on fulfilling a long time dream of mine?! I just didn’t know what to do. I didn’t know if I should cry or laugh at my problematic situation. It was a moment of complete despair.
Fortunately, the incident happened at a corner where there was a policeman and an official. The helpful policeman agreed to call and see if the helping van was close by in order to come and help. This was a glimmer of hope in a desperate situation. But … there were 56 miles of road ahead and the van could be anywhere. I asked what time it was and found out that my swim took shorter than expected so I had about an hour to play with in order to make the time cut off. So decisions had to be made … do I wait or do I walk to the start to see if someone could help without being disqualified in the process. At that moment there appeared a man who just happened to park in a lot on the other side of the street. He asked what was wrong. After he saw the situation he said he just happened to have an extra tube and a pump. He went to his car and got the pump and tube. The only thing lacking was a tool but that did not stop his determination – he used the back end of a key! As we were in the process he mentioned that he had a bike identical to mine. I kept thanking him and said he must be an Angel. I asked how in the world I could ever thank him – he said there was no need to thank him just go out and have a fun race. I said thank you one more time, put my feet into the pedals and hit the road. What a great blessing from a faithful God – A tube from Heaven.
Completing the cycling, I moved into transition and on to the run. During the biking and running, I continually thought about how God had provided and not only provided, but how He even provides in the small things.
The tube I received was an incredible blessing. It reminded me that even in the small things of this world, God is faithful – This was a personal dream of mine and God was faithful in letting me complete it.
Prayer Points:
- Continue to pray for Andrew at his two-week handball camp back in Poland.
- Pray for the finances to come in: monthly support, Lubin church sound system project, Eager vehicle project.
- Good remaining 2 ½ weeks in the U.S. with family and friends and that everything will get done.
- Ukraine missions trip with youth from our church in Lubin and our Mother church (last two weeks in August) - safety, Spiritual fruit and wisdom for all involved.
Blessings, Paul, Carlene – Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
Mission: SEND International * PO Box 513 * Farmington, MI * 48332 * (248) 477-4210 * Info@send.org
Home Address: ul. Malinowa 2 * 59-300 * Lubin * Poland +(48+ 76) 844 1351*
pauleager@ymail.com* eagercarlene@yahoo.com www.eagerlyblogging.blogspot.com / www.coffeehouselogos.blogspot.com / www.logoslubin.pl
Vonage Phone number: 574-830-1260
Monday, August 2, 2010
Whirlpool Ironman 70.3 Steelhead Triathlon - A dream fullfilled :)
A long time dream of mine (Paul) was fulfilled last Saturday 31.07.2010
It took about 6 hours and 8 minutes. I think I have some things to still work on. :)
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
“Home, Home On The Range”
Dear Friends,
Greetings from Elkhart, Indiana! While Elkhart is not exactly “The Range”, we are at home here for these two months. It has been good to be able to “roam” with friends and family. Please find our speaking schedule below and a few prayer items.
July 4th - Pine Ridge Bible Church - Goshen, Indiana
July 11th - 13th - Perry Hall Baptist Church - Perry Hall, Maryland
PM service - Presentation
12th and 13th - VBS
July 14th - Bancroft Church of God Mission - Bancroft, WV
Wednesday PM service
July 18th - McCoy Memorial Baptist Church - Elkhart, Indiana
AM Introduction
PM Presentation
July 25th - People's Bible Church - Goshen, Indiana
AM Presentation
July 25th - July 29th - SEND Family Conference - Holland, Michigan
August 1st - Sugar Grove - Goshen, Indiana
AM Sunday School
August 1st - Merriam Christian Chapel - Albion, Indiana
PM Service
August 4th - Faith Community Church - Osceola, Indiana
Wednesday PM Service
August 18th - Northside Baptist Church - Elkhart, Indiana
Wednesday PM Service
August 22nd - Burr Oak Baptist Church - Albion, Indiana
AM Service
August 22nd - 1st Baptist Church of Goshen - Goshen, Indiana
PM Service
August 25th Departure for Poland
Prayer Items:
1. Prayer for opportunities to be an encouragement to many in the midst of travel and speaking
engagements.
2. Support needs - $700.00 monthly needed. If interested please use the contact information
below.
3. Prayer for the Lubin Church Plant - As some prepare to go to Ukraine on a Missions trip -
Pray that God would be honored in all they do and say. May many of those they work with
understand their need for Him and give their lives fully to Him.
Projects - One-time gifts
1. On-Field vehicle need (one time gifts) - $16,000.
2. Lubin sound equipment project Fund - There is a project fund set up at SEND International
for the purchase of sound equipment for the Lubin Church Plant. The project is for $5,000.
If interested please contact us and we can give you a breakdown of the project.
Blessings, Paul, Carlene, Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
Email: pauleager@ymail.com / Cell phone #: 574.343.4665
Greetings from Elkhart, Indiana! While Elkhart is not exactly “The Range”, we are at home here for these two months. It has been good to be able to “roam” with friends and family. Please find our speaking schedule below and a few prayer items.
July 4th - Pine Ridge Bible Church - Goshen, Indiana
July 11th - 13th - Perry Hall Baptist Church - Perry Hall, Maryland
PM service - Presentation
12th and 13th - VBS
July 14th - Bancroft Church of God Mission - Bancroft, WV
Wednesday PM service
July 18th - McCoy Memorial Baptist Church - Elkhart, Indiana
AM Introduction
PM Presentation
July 25th - People's Bible Church - Goshen, Indiana
AM Presentation
July 25th - July 29th - SEND Family Conference - Holland, Michigan
August 1st - Sugar Grove - Goshen, Indiana
AM Sunday School
August 1st - Merriam Christian Chapel - Albion, Indiana
PM Service
August 4th - Faith Community Church - Osceola, Indiana
Wednesday PM Service
August 18th - Northside Baptist Church - Elkhart, Indiana
Wednesday PM Service
August 22nd - Burr Oak Baptist Church - Albion, Indiana
AM Service
August 22nd - 1st Baptist Church of Goshen - Goshen, Indiana
PM Service
August 25th Departure for Poland
Prayer Items:
1. Prayer for opportunities to be an encouragement to many in the midst of travel and speaking
engagements.
2. Support needs - $700.00 monthly needed. If interested please use the contact information
below.
3. Prayer for the Lubin Church Plant - As some prepare to go to Ukraine on a Missions trip -
Pray that God would be honored in all they do and say. May many of those they work with
understand their need for Him and give their lives fully to Him.
Projects - One-time gifts
1. On-Field vehicle need (one time gifts) - $16,000.
2. Lubin sound equipment project Fund - There is a project fund set up at SEND International
for the purchase of sound equipment for the Lubin Church Plant. The project is for $5,000.
If interested please contact us and we can give you a breakdown of the project.
Blessings, Paul, Carlene, Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
Email: pauleager@ymail.com / Cell phone #: 574.343.4665
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Adjust or Bust
Good Morning from Elkhart, Indiana!
This past Wednesday we made the journey across the ocean with one suitcase and a carry on each (it was kind of nice not having a lot of luggage) and are now slowly adjusting back into US culture. When we sent out our last correspondence some may have tried to reply. The only problem … the email was most likely returned to you. The last time I sent out balk email my server effectively shut me down (It is good to know they are not sleeping). However because of this I have changed our primary email address to the following: pauleager@ymail.com. Thank you so much for your patience.
Prayer Points:
1. Wisdom in scheduling – setting up meetings in churches, visiting Pastors and spending time with friends and family.
2. Please pray that God would give us awesome ministry opportunities while in the US.
3. Financial – Financially we are lacking $700.00 in monthly contributions (We have a scheduled return of August 25th).
4. Please pray for the Lubin church that God would continually touch hearts, give people a growing passion for Him and an increasing passion to serve others.
Thank you for praying!
Paul and Carlene
Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
www.eagerlyblogging.blogspot.com
http://www.coffeehouselogos.blogspot.com/
http://www.logoslubin.pl/
pauleager@ymail.com
This past Wednesday we made the journey across the ocean with one suitcase and a carry on each (it was kind of nice not having a lot of luggage) and are now slowly adjusting back into US culture. When we sent out our last correspondence some may have tried to reply. The only problem … the email was most likely returned to you. The last time I sent out balk email my server effectively shut me down (It is good to know they are not sleeping). However because of this I have changed our primary email address to the following: pauleager@ymail.com. Thank you so much for your patience.
Prayer Points:
1. Wisdom in scheduling – setting up meetings in churches, visiting Pastors and spending time with friends and family.
2. Please pray that God would give us awesome ministry opportunities while in the US.
3. Financial – Financially we are lacking $700.00 in monthly contributions (We have a scheduled return of August 25th).
4. Please pray for the Lubin church that God would continually touch hearts, give people a growing passion for Him and an increasing passion to serve others.
Thank you for praying!
Paul and Carlene
Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
www.eagerlyblogging.blogspot.com
http://www.coffeehouselogos.blogspot.com/
http://www.logoslubin.pl/
pauleager@ymail.com
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Ready Or Not - Here We Come
Dear Friends,
In exactly a week from today we will be arriving in Elkhart, Indiana for a short home service of two and a half months.
In reflecting over the past two years we are in awe of how God has worked among the people of Lubin ... and more specifically with all of us in the Lubin Church Plant. We have seen growth, ownership, a deepening relationship with God as well as with others, openness, a growing love for His Word and unity, sorrow, anger, pride, jealousy, frustration, peace and restoration.
As we return to Poland, Lord willing, we cannot wait to see what God is going to do in the next couple of years. We pray that in some sense you also can feel the incredible work of God and can get excited about the future.
Praise Points:
1. A family has offered their vehicle for us to use.
2. Place to stay at McCoy Memorial Baptist’s Missionary
house.
3. God has worked out many plans for us.
Prayer:
1. Safety in travel.
2. Home service planning - We will be scheduling visits.
3. Support team raising (an additional $700.00 / mo needs to
be pledged.
4. Some project funds (Used car - $13,000, Speaker system
for the church - $5000,00).
Blessings, Paul, Carlene, Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
In exactly a week from today we will be arriving in Elkhart, Indiana for a short home service of two and a half months.
In reflecting over the past two years we are in awe of how God has worked among the people of Lubin ... and more specifically with all of us in the Lubin Church Plant. We have seen growth, ownership, a deepening relationship with God as well as with others, openness, a growing love for His Word and unity, sorrow, anger, pride, jealousy, frustration, peace and restoration.
As we return to Poland, Lord willing, we cannot wait to see what God is going to do in the next couple of years. We pray that in some sense you also can feel the incredible work of God and can get excited about the future.
Praise Points:
1. A family has offered their vehicle for us to use.
2. Place to stay at McCoy Memorial Baptist’s Missionary
house.
3. God has worked out many plans for us.
Prayer:
1. Safety in travel.
2. Home service planning - We will be scheduling visits.
3. Support team raising (an additional $700.00 / mo needs to
be pledged.
4. Some project funds (Used car - $13,000, Speaker system
for the church - $5000,00).
Blessings, Paul, Carlene, Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
SEND International * PO Box 513 * Farmington, MI * 48332 * (248) 477-4210 * Info@send.orgul. Malinowa 2 * 59-300 * Lubin * Poland* +(48+ 76) 844 1351* pceager@orange.pl * eagercarlene@yahoo.comwww.eagerlyblogging.blogspot.com / www.coffeehouselogos.blogspot.com / www.logoslubin.pl
Vonage Phone number: 574-830-1260
Saturday, April 24, 2010
"Growing Up"
“Growing up”
Whether we're in “formal” school or not, we are definitely learning constantly. We are in the “school of life” and for that I can truly say I'm thankful because it causes growth and humbleness in our lives.
Where does the time go? When I began writing this letter, Andrew was sitting taking an English written exam. The next day, he took an oral English exam. The other day, he took a comprehensive 6th grade exam. These tests are all a part of leaving elementary school and beginning the journey towards choosing a junior high school for next year. There are entrance tests to the various junior high schools, depending on the one(s) they are trying to get into. He's looking forward to this next part of his life.
Aaron doesn’t have any “major” tests this month but is plugging away in his school work. This year has been a good year for him in many ways as he’s showing he is “growing up” mentally, emotionally and spiritually. (Physically too! I guess you could say that about all of them.)
Alaina has just had some testing done also not too long ago. She's doing alright in school but her grades were dropping some. We decided to get some testing to see if it's “just a hard stage in school concepts” or something more. Well, she's just fine with her ability to learn, just needs to keep persevering (sounds like me too!) She's enjoying learning many new things.
And Paul and I, well…about the time we think we've learned something, we realize how much more we need to learn! I'm embarrassed to say that I don't always handle cultural differences the way I should. I know the differences in my knowledge, but sometimes in my mind and heart…well, enough said! People here are very free to give their opinions and advice, even if they don't know you. I was in line at the grocery store packing up my groceries, and the lady behind me “offered” her opinion about what I was doing. I didn't take too kindly to it and she and the cashier were aware of that. I finished up and as I was driving home, I knew I needed to apologize at least to the cashier. I probably won't ever see the lady behind me, but I'm often at that store so will see the cashier often. I turned the car around and apologized for my response. She was fine and all is well. But, this is one of many instances where I know God is working on my heart, my deep down thoughts, desires and attitudes. I want to be like Him to live as He wants me too. I'm just so thankful He loves us enough to give His mercy out freely and continue molding us to have His thoughts and ways. We are all “growing up”…constantly…and always will be. How hard that is, how humbling, but oh, how wonderful.
Our church is “growing up” too. Yes, in number (we've had some visitors lately and some contacts have come!) but also as a body. We have individually been growing in our walks with Christ, but we all feel like a family and a body and are growing together in our walks with the Lord. After the service, we are often at the church a good hour or two or more fellowshipping with one another. We have different opinions about some matters, but as God's timing allows, we are opening up with each other and talking about these things and trying to get answers from God's Word. It's an exciting time we're in as we “grow up” together.
And as a result of recent events with Poland's President, wife and many government and church dignitaries, people here are in a state of shock and sadness. We are praying for God to show us all how He wants to use this in our lives and in the Poles' lives. We are praying for growth in all our lives and opportunities to share God's love. Please pray!
With that and the volcano that erupted in Iceland, things have been a bit awry as far as schedules changing. Things seem to be calming down now and new dates put on the calendar.
Here are some praise and prayer requests:
1.Church building for another year with a minimal raise in rent: Several in our church council met with our Landlord and were able to come to an agreement regarding rent. Although there is a raise in rent for the following year, it is minimal compared to other buildings around us and we have another year to be where we are.
2. 4th Annual Gospel Workshop: The workshop, originally planned for April 17 and 18 , was changed to May 15, 16th because of Poland’s week-long mourning. It is a workshop where we invite a singer(s) from England and Kraków to sing and teach gospel style music. People sign up to learn the songs and sing in a charity concert Sunday evening. It’s a huge outreach and we’re praying that especially in light of recent events that God would pour out His Spirit and work mightily to bring people to Himself and bring hope and peace to all who take part in the workshop and the concert. Pray that all the musicians will be able to come on these new dates.
3. Home Service plans: Yes, we will be in the States for two months this summer! Actually, we will be arriving the middle of June to first attend our niece’s wedding and then we hope to be able to visit with many of you. We’re praying for someone here to watch our house and dog while we’re there. There are many other details to work out regarding English classes, church and schooling for the kids. We’re thankful we have a place to live at one of McCoy Memorial Baptist Church’s missionary homes. Please pray for all the details to fall into place.
4. NCE Conference: Our annual field conference is earlier this year. With so many going on home service now during the summer, we needed to have a different time to meet. Our conference will be June 2-6. There is a holiday in Poland during that time so it’s a long weekend. Susan Killmon and Carlene are the organizers this year. Pray for all the details to come together, for the worship and children’s team (coming from a church in California), and for God to use this time for spiritual renewal (the theme is “Renewing Your Passion for Ministry”), and physical and mental refreshment.
5. King’s Study: We continue to meet every Friday evening for a Bible study held in English. Our teammate, Pat Weathersbee, continues to lead the discussions. We have been studying the names of God. Pray that the Holy Spirit would work through His Word and people would continue to come during this busy spring season.
Friday, November 13, 2009
"Thankfulness in His choosing"
Do you know what I can't stop thinking about?! That way back before the world was ever created the “Council of the Trinity” was having a great time talking about our lives! I mean, They knew what our lives would look like. They knew what we would or wouldn't do. They chose us. They were already delighting in us way back even before we were born! The wanted us. We are their beloved! We can't change these facts whether we want to or not. And nothing can change this by what I do or don't do! Delight and pure love regardless. I stand before Him in utter humbleness and gratitude.
These truths recently became fresh and renewed my soul at a women's retreat this past September and I can't stop thinking about it. But then I also think, how would I live differently if I truly understood the extent of these truths? For example,
- Would I fear leading Sunday School or something else in Polish?
- Would I care what others thought of me from day to day?
- How would I relate differently to my family members?, etc. …
Of course, Satan tries to shoot those fiery darts, and I have to remember that His choosing is always the best and in His choosing, I can be thankful.
Here are a few more items of thankfulness:
Yesterday was Poland’s Independence Day. They are thankful to once again becoming an independent statehood in 1918 after 123 years of bieng “wiped off the map”. Poland had been partitioned to Austria-Hungary, Germany and Russia. Nov. 11 commemorates Poland’s return to a free country.
We are thankful that God chose us to serve Him in Poland at this time and place.
God has chosen the people we are working with now and in the future those inside and outside the church plant.
God has chosen who is on the team Our broader support team as well as the local Lubin Regional Impact Team.
For a church plant that has a growing passion for our Savior and a passion to serve Him with every aspect of their lives. It's been a lot of fun because we've gotten to know each other a lot better. We all usually stay after the service and talk for at least an hour or more! We have good discussions and fellowship after the service.
Thankfulness for answered prayer! Several different Bible studies and prayer times have been started this Fall!
May God give you a wonderful Thanksgiving. And, may you bask in His love this Christmas season!
With extreme thankfulness for YOU,
Paul, Carlene
Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
These truths recently became fresh and renewed my soul at a women's retreat this past September and I can't stop thinking about it. But then I also think, how would I live differently if I truly understood the extent of these truths? For example,
- Would I fear leading Sunday School or something else in Polish?
- Would I care what others thought of me from day to day?
- How would I relate differently to my family members?, etc. …
Of course, Satan tries to shoot those fiery darts, and I have to remember that His choosing is always the best and in His choosing, I can be thankful.
Here are a few more items of thankfulness:
Yesterday was Poland’s Independence Day. They are thankful to once again becoming an independent statehood in 1918 after 123 years of bieng “wiped off the map”. Poland had been partitioned to Austria-Hungary, Germany and Russia. Nov. 11 commemorates Poland’s return to a free country.
We are thankful that God chose us to serve Him in Poland at this time and place.
God has chosen the people we are working with now and in the future those inside and outside the church plant.
God has chosen who is on the team Our broader support team as well as the local Lubin Regional Impact Team.
For a church plant that has a growing passion for our Savior and a passion to serve Him with every aspect of their lives. It's been a lot of fun because we've gotten to know each other a lot better. We all usually stay after the service and talk for at least an hour or more! We have good discussions and fellowship after the service.
Thankfulness for answered prayer! Several different Bible studies and prayer times have been started this Fall!
May God give you a wonderful Thanksgiving. And, may you bask in His love this Christmas season!
With extreme thankfulness for YOU,
Paul, Carlene
Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
November / December Prayer Update
November
Praise the Lord that Pat Weathersbee and Jerry Skifstad have arrived back for home service!! Please continue to pray for the Thomas family as they have a bit more support to raise before coming to Lubin. Pray that they'll be able to come soon.
25th-26th - We will be having our English classes Thanksgiving parties. We have done this every year and for some students it's their 3rd or 4th time and for others, it's their 1st Thanksgiving party at the "Logos" Language Center. Parents are invitedto come as the children ages pre-school through first year junior high put on a program. We will be having four separate parties due to our limited space and the amount of students we have enrolled this year. For the adults, there is a real turkey dinner. Please pray for the Holy Spirit to move in the hearts of the students and parents. Pray for good conversations and the Lord to use this event to bring people to Him.
29th - We'll be visiting a church plant in Opole, two hours from Lubin. This is a church where fellow SEND missionaries are serving. Paul will be speaking about the Lord's working throughout his parent's ministry in Indonesia. It's a reflection of our time spent there this past summer. Pray for the Lord to use this messge to encourage, strengthen and challenge the believers in this church.
December
We don't have an exact date yet but around the 16th or 17th - We will have our annual Christmas party for our English classes. Agian, please pray that the Lord would use this event to bring students closer ot Christ and understand how they can have a personal relationship with Him.
18th - We will be hosting a Christmas concert outreach where we will invite our friends to listen to those singing and playing various instruments. We will sing carols together and share the message of Christ. Pray for all who are invited to come and for the Lord to work in a mighty way during this celebration evening.
Weekly
Tuesday mornings - Men meet for an early morning prayer time before work. Pray for the Holy Spirit to speak to ech man through conversation with Him.
Wednesday mornings - Women meet for Bible study at 8.15 (before work) for about an hour. The ladies have been looking at women in the Bible. Please pray that the ladies would grow deeper in their walks with the Lord.
Friday evenings - The King's Bible Study, a Bible study held in English, continues to meet every Friday. It as been a joy and very encouraging to see the desire to learn more about God. It's not only an opportunity to learn some more English, but it's mainly to discuss truths from God's Word. There have been good discussions. Pray tht God's Word would speak to each heart every Friday evening during the studies.
Monday - Thursday - English classes are held each of these afternoons. We're so glad for the contacts and friendships we've been able to have through this means of outreach. It's definitely English learning ut we talk about spiritual things whenever we have the opportunity. It's been a lot of fun. Please continue to pray for spiritual fruit!
Praise the Lord that Pat Weathersbee and Jerry Skifstad have arrived back for home service!! Please continue to pray for the Thomas family as they have a bit more support to raise before coming to Lubin. Pray that they'll be able to come soon.
25th-26th - We will be having our English classes Thanksgiving parties. We have done this every year and for some students it's their 3rd or 4th time and for others, it's their 1st Thanksgiving party at the "Logos" Language Center. Parents are invitedto come as the children ages pre-school through first year junior high put on a program. We will be having four separate parties due to our limited space and the amount of students we have enrolled this year. For the adults, there is a real turkey dinner. Please pray for the Holy Spirit to move in the hearts of the students and parents. Pray for good conversations and the Lord to use this event to bring people to Him.
29th - We'll be visiting a church plant in Opole, two hours from Lubin. This is a church where fellow SEND missionaries are serving. Paul will be speaking about the Lord's working throughout his parent's ministry in Indonesia. It's a reflection of our time spent there this past summer. Pray for the Lord to use this messge to encourage, strengthen and challenge the believers in this church.
December
We don't have an exact date yet but around the 16th or 17th - We will have our annual Christmas party for our English classes. Agian, please pray that the Lord would use this event to bring students closer ot Christ and understand how they can have a personal relationship with Him.
18th - We will be hosting a Christmas concert outreach where we will invite our friends to listen to those singing and playing various instruments. We will sing carols together and share the message of Christ. Pray for all who are invited to come and for the Lord to work in a mighty way during this celebration evening.
Weekly
Tuesday mornings - Men meet for an early morning prayer time before work. Pray for the Holy Spirit to speak to ech man through conversation with Him.
Wednesday mornings - Women meet for Bible study at 8.15 (before work) for about an hour. The ladies have been looking at women in the Bible. Please pray that the ladies would grow deeper in their walks with the Lord.
Friday evenings - The King's Bible Study, a Bible study held in English, continues to meet every Friday. It as been a joy and very encouraging to see the desire to learn more about God. It's not only an opportunity to learn some more English, but it's mainly to discuss truths from God's Word. There have been good discussions. Pray tht God's Word would speak to each heart every Friday evening during the studies.
Monday - Thursday - English classes are held each of these afternoons. We're so glad for the contacts and friendships we've been able to have through this means of outreach. It's definitely English learning ut we talk about spiritual things whenever we have the opportunity. It's been a lot of fun. Please continue to pray for spiritual fruit!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Eager May 2009 Prayer Update
Prayer Update
1. April 18th – 19th, we had the third annual Gospel Workshop where people learn songs through teachers (from England and Cracow) and give a concert Sunday evening. We really prayed that the Spirit would move and touch people's hearts. We believe He did and our prayer request now is that the Lord to continue working as we think of follow-up and for the salvation of several of the musicians who played in the band that are not saved. Pray for their salvation.
2. We still have a little more than a month of our English classes at the Coffee House. Spring fever has hit and many of the students would rather be outside than in the classroom! Pray as we finish the year (until June 10), that we would be faithful to prepare lessons and have good opportunities to talk about the Lord. Pray for spiritual fruit.
3. The King's Bible Study - (Our Great King’s Word is greater than the “Queen’s English” which by the way British English is taught here.J) This study is done Friday evenings in English geared for our English students. This is what we have prayed and longed for. We have been studying the parables and prayer. Our English students haven't come necessarily but others have been faithful and excited to come. There are contacts through English students and church people. Pray again for Spiritual fruit.
4. Our kids have school trips coming up. Andrew goes with his class from May 20-22 and Aaron goes with his class May 25-June 5. Pray for safety and fun and for them to be good witnesses.
5. Our church is doing well although it's still very small and it's still like a desert out there as far as Poles understanding their need for a personal Savior. People in church are growing in their walk and we have wonderful fellowship times. Please pray for a pastor in the right time. It's exciting because an elder/council group was just voted in. Pray for growth and Poles to come to Him. Pray for our contacts and friends to understand their need for Christ.
6. Pray for Jerry Skifstad (SEND Missionary) and Bruce and Linda Thomas (World Venture) as they raise support. They would all love to be here by the end of the summer. Jerry will be working with the youth and the Thomas’ will be teaching in the Language Center. We are looking forward to them joining us.
This field (Lubin is in the background) our children are sitting in will be physically harvested in several months – Please continue to pray for a great SPIRITUAL harvest in Poland!
May 2009 Eagers' Expressions
“GIANTS DO DIE, THE BIGGER THEY ARE, THE HARDER THEY FALL”
“Now we come in Your name and we stand on Your Word, what is loosed in the heavens, will be loosed on earth. Your praise will bring down strongholds. When you pray, you will see miracles. Just pray when things seem impossible and the King of Glory will show His glory; let God arise, giant, die.” (Donald Lawrence)
One song sung during the 3rd Lubin Gospel benefit concert.
Some Responses:
“I almost didn't come to the concert, but I'm so glad I did My being in the hospital for the last two weeks with surgeries on my heart with complications including a destroyed lung has led me to many doubts but I know that this giant will die and I have peace now.” (A young lady who came up to me after the concert)
“I didn't want anything to do with Christians but now I have seen things in a new way.” - Base guitarist
“I need to do some thinking” Was given a Bible. - Saxophonist
“I have started to read the Bible again after many years. It is amazing how it is possible to feel the closeness of God during this kind of concert. This was a personal experience of a miracle of God that I could come for the third time, once again see Wayne and Lea and to start reading the Bible again and praying and thanking God for every day.” - From a survey on our website
God is at work in the lives of people! (Visit our website for pictures www.logoslubin.pl)
Lubin Church Plant: God continues to teach the Lubin church plant many things such as: what it means to serve each other and not just “attend” and what it means to have a consistent passion for Christ and His Word. The church plant just recently saw the need to have a church council (elders) and voted in four people to take on this responsibility. Please pray that God would continue to help the church plant grow not only in numbers but also spiritually.
“Logos” Language Center: An English / Polish Bible study was started on February 20th with one of the desires being that some of the students from the Language Center would join. Every Friday some students as well as some others from the outside have joined the study. Please pray that God's Word would penetrate deeply into students' hearts.
Summer: On June 5-15 a group of 6 will be arriving from Atlanta, Georgia. Some of the things that they will be involved in are English conversations, business workshops, community social project, block party / family day, Sunday service involvement and work at a ladies shelter. Please pray that God would be preparing hearts to see their need for a Savior.
Family News: Spring fever has hit but kids, teachers and parents still have to persevere until the last day of school June 19th. Andrew and Aaron have school trips this month - one to the mountains and one to the sea. Alaina is enjoying reading. Carlene is continuing to enjoy teaching Polish kids English while at the same time making sure the Eager kids are developing their English skills. And, with the warmer weather Paul has been able to increase his R&R riding and running!
We are always, but especially during this tough economic time, so grateful for your continued prayers and support. We pray over and over for God to bless you as He knows how best to.
Blessings,
Paul, Carlene, Andrew, Aaron, Alaina
SEND International * PO Box 513 * Farmington, MI * 48332 * (248) 477-4210 * Info@send.org
ul. Malinowa 2 * 59-300 * Lubin * Poland* +(48+ 76) 844 1351* pceager@orange.pl * eagercarlene@yahoo.com
www.eagerlyblogging.blogspot.com / www.coffeehouselogos.blogspot.com / www.logoslubin.pl
Vonage Phone number: 574-830-1260
“Now we come in Your name and we stand on Your Word, what is loosed in the heavens, will be loosed on earth. Your praise will bring down strongholds. When you pray, you will see miracles. Just pray when things seem impossible and the King of Glory will show His glory; let God arise, giant, die.” (Donald Lawrence)
One song sung during the 3rd Lubin Gospel benefit concert.
Some Responses:
“I almost didn't come to the concert, but I'm so glad I did My being in the hospital for the last two weeks with surgeries on my heart with complications including a destroyed lung has led me to many doubts but I know that this giant will die and I have peace now.” (A young lady who came up to me after the concert)
“I didn't want anything to do with Christians but now I have seen things in a new way.” - Base guitarist
“I need to do some thinking” Was given a Bible. - Saxophonist
“I have started to read the Bible again after many years. It is amazing how it is possible to feel the closeness of God during this kind of concert. This was a personal experience of a miracle of God that I could come for the third time, once again see Wayne and Lea and to start reading the Bible again and praying and thanking God for every day.” - From a survey on our website
God is at work in the lives of people! (Visit our website for pictures www.logoslubin.pl)
Lubin Church Plant: God continues to teach the Lubin church plant many things such as: what it means to serve each other and not just “attend” and what it means to have a consistent passion for Christ and His Word. The church plant just recently saw the need to have a church council (elders) and voted in four people to take on this responsibility. Please pray that God would continue to help the church plant grow not only in numbers but also spiritually.
“Logos” Language Center: An English / Polish Bible study was started on February 20th with one of the desires being that some of the students from the Language Center would join. Every Friday some students as well as some others from the outside have joined the study. Please pray that God's Word would penetrate deeply into students' hearts.
Summer: On June 5-15 a group of 6 will be arriving from Atlanta, Georgia. Some of the things that they will be involved in are English conversations, business workshops, community social project, block party / family day, Sunday service involvement and work at a ladies shelter. Please pray that God would be preparing hearts to see their need for a Savior.
Family News: Spring fever has hit but kids, teachers and parents still have to persevere until the last day of school June 19th. Andrew and Aaron have school trips this month - one to the mountains and one to the sea. Alaina is enjoying reading. Carlene is continuing to enjoy teaching Polish kids English while at the same time making sure the Eager kids are developing their English skills. And, with the warmer weather Paul has been able to increase his R&R riding and running!
We are always, but especially during this tough economic time, so grateful for your continued prayers and support. We pray over and over for God to bless you as He knows how best to.
Blessings,
Paul, Carlene, Andrew, Aaron, Alaina
SEND International * PO Box 513 * Farmington, MI * 48332 * (248) 477-4210 * Info@send.org
ul. Malinowa 2 * 59-300 * Lubin * Poland* +(48+ 76) 844 1351* pceager@orange.pl * eagercarlene@yahoo.com
www.eagerlyblogging.blogspot.com / www.coffeehouselogos.blogspot.com / www.logoslubin.pl
Vonage Phone number: 574-830-1260
Monday, December 15, 2008
Wigilia
Wesolych Swiat Bozego Narodzenia! That is the way to say "Merry Christmas" in Polish. Among Poles, wherever they are, the most beloved and beautiful of all traditional festivities is that of Christmas Eve. It is then that the Wigilia, or Christmas Eve Dinner is served. It is a solemnly celebrated occasion and arouses deep feelings of kinship among family members.
For days in advance, Poles prepare the traditional foods and everyone anxiously awaits the moment when the first star, known as the Gwiazdka, appears in the eastern sky. For that is when the feast to commemorate the birth of the Christ Child begins.
There is always a thin layer of hay under the white tablecloth in memory of the Godchild in the manger. Before sitting down at the table, everyone breaks the traditional wafer, or Oplatek and exchanges good wishes for health, wealth and happiness in the New Year. This is such a deeply moving moment that often tears of love and joy are evoked from the family members who are breaking this symbolic bread. The Oplatek is a thin, unleavened wafer similar to the altar bread in the Roman Catholic Church. It is stamped with the figures of the Godchild, the blessed Mary, and the holy angels. The wafer is known as the bread of love and is often sent by mail to the absent members of the family.
The dinner itself differs from other evening meals in that the number of courses is fixed at seven, nine or eleven. According to myth, in no case must there be an odd number of people at the table, otherwise it is said that some of the feasters would not live to see another Christmas. A lighted candle in the windows symbolizes the hope that the Godchild, in the form of a stranger, may come to share the Wigilia and an extra place is set at the table for the unexpected guest. This belief stems from the ancient Polish adage, "A guest in the home is God in the home."
The Wigilia is a meatless meal, no doubt the result of a long-time Church mandate that a strict fast and abstinence be observed on this day before Christmas. Although the Church laws have been revised and permit meat to be eaten on this day, the traditional meal remains meatless. Items that would normally be included in a traditional Wigilia menu include mushroom soup, boiled potatoes (kartofle), pickled herring (sledzie), fried fish, pierogi, beans and sauerkraut (groch i kapusta), a dried fruit compote, babka, platek, assorted pastries, nuts and candies.
After the meal the members of the family sing Polish Christmas Carols called the koledy while the children wait impatiently around the Christmas tree or choinka for the gifts to be exchanged.
Aside from the beautiful Wigilia, the Polish people have a number of other traditions that they practice throughout the Christmas season. Polish Christmas Carols or koledy are numerous and beautiful, especially when sung in Polish parishes at the Christmas Eve Mass. This Mass is called the Pasterka, which means the Shepherds Watch, and there is popular belief in Poland that while the congregation is praying, peace descends on the snow-clad, sleeping earth and that during that holy night, the humble companions of men - the domestic animals - assume voices. But only the innocent of heart may hear them.
Christmas Day itself is spent in rest, prayer, and visits to various members of the family. In Poland, from Christmas Day until the twelfth night, boys trudge from village to village withan illuminated star and a ranting King Herod among them to sing carols. Sometimes, they penetrate the towns in expectation of more generous gifts. In some districts, the boys carry on puppet shows called shopky. These are built like a little house with two towers, open in the front where a small crib is set.
During the Christmas season, the theaters give special performances. On the feast of the Epiphany, the priest and the organist visit the homes, bless them and write over their doors the initials of the three wise men - KMB (Kasper, Melchior and Balthazar) - in the belief that this will spare the homes from misfortune.
The Christmas season closes on February 2, known as Candlemas Day. On that day, people carry candles to church and have them blessed for use in their homes during storms, sickness and death.
Wesolych Swiat, Bozego Narodzenia i Szczesliwego Nowego Roku!
http://www.polishamericancenter.org/Wigilia.htm
For days in advance, Poles prepare the traditional foods and everyone anxiously awaits the moment when the first star, known as the Gwiazdka, appears in the eastern sky. For that is when the feast to commemorate the birth of the Christ Child begins.
There is always a thin layer of hay under the white tablecloth in memory of the Godchild in the manger. Before sitting down at the table, everyone breaks the traditional wafer, or Oplatek and exchanges good wishes for health, wealth and happiness in the New Year. This is such a deeply moving moment that often tears of love and joy are evoked from the family members who are breaking this symbolic bread. The Oplatek is a thin, unleavened wafer similar to the altar bread in the Roman Catholic Church. It is stamped with the figures of the Godchild, the blessed Mary, and the holy angels. The wafer is known as the bread of love and is often sent by mail to the absent members of the family.
The dinner itself differs from other evening meals in that the number of courses is fixed at seven, nine or eleven. According to myth, in no case must there be an odd number of people at the table, otherwise it is said that some of the feasters would not live to see another Christmas. A lighted candle in the windows symbolizes the hope that the Godchild, in the form of a stranger, may come to share the Wigilia and an extra place is set at the table for the unexpected guest. This belief stems from the ancient Polish adage, "A guest in the home is God in the home."
The Wigilia is a meatless meal, no doubt the result of a long-time Church mandate that a strict fast and abstinence be observed on this day before Christmas. Although the Church laws have been revised and permit meat to be eaten on this day, the traditional meal remains meatless. Items that would normally be included in a traditional Wigilia menu include mushroom soup, boiled potatoes (kartofle), pickled herring (sledzie), fried fish, pierogi, beans and sauerkraut (groch i kapusta), a dried fruit compote, babka, platek, assorted pastries, nuts and candies.
After the meal the members of the family sing Polish Christmas Carols called the koledy while the children wait impatiently around the Christmas tree or choinka for the gifts to be exchanged.
Aside from the beautiful Wigilia, the Polish people have a number of other traditions that they practice throughout the Christmas season. Polish Christmas Carols or koledy are numerous and beautiful, especially when sung in Polish parishes at the Christmas Eve Mass. This Mass is called the Pasterka, which means the Shepherds Watch, and there is popular belief in Poland that while the congregation is praying, peace descends on the snow-clad, sleeping earth and that during that holy night, the humble companions of men - the domestic animals - assume voices. But only the innocent of heart may hear them.
Christmas Day itself is spent in rest, prayer, and visits to various members of the family. In Poland, from Christmas Day until the twelfth night, boys trudge from village to village withan illuminated star and a ranting King Herod among them to sing carols. Sometimes, they penetrate the towns in expectation of more generous gifts. In some districts, the boys carry on puppet shows called shopky. These are built like a little house with two towers, open in the front where a small crib is set.
During the Christmas season, the theaters give special performances. On the feast of the Epiphany, the priest and the organist visit the homes, bless them and write over their doors the initials of the three wise men - KMB (Kasper, Melchior and Balthazar) - in the belief that this will spare the homes from misfortune.
The Christmas season closes on February 2, known as Candlemas Day. On that day, people carry candles to church and have them blessed for use in their homes during storms, sickness and death.
Wesolych Swiat, Bozego Narodzenia i Szczesliwego Nowego Roku!
http://www.polishamericancenter.org/Wigilia.htm
"Wesołych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia!"
Dec. 2008
“ Wesołych Swiat Bozego Narodzenia!”
Merry Christmas!
We had such a wonderful Thanksgiving season with having
three different times with English parties, one time with
missionary friends and another time with our church body
eating all the leftovers from the meal the day before and there
was enough for all (about 20 or so) to have very full plates!
We had a lot of time to reflect on the many good things we
do have and the blessings that God has given us. And now,
December 7th, our minds have begun to change thinking and
gear towards Christmas. Today, we started focusing on
Christmas, too, by making an advent chain using activities “to
do” for each day until Christmas Eve (the main day here - not
Christmas Day) to prepare our hearts for the season. Also,
today is the first time I listened to Christmas music while making
the dough for Christmas cut-out cookies we'll need for our
English Christmas party. So, for us, the season has “officially”
begun! Instead of us writing all the information down, the
enclosed paper gives you an idea of what a traditional Polish
Christmas looks like. We have had the privilege to be a part of
many of these traditions with our Polish friends. We’re looking
forward this year to celebrate together with our church family
and friends.
We wish you a very blessed holiday season. May God give
us opportunities to tell people we know about Christ and His
love this season!
Merry Christmas!,
Paul, Carlene, Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
SEND International * PO Box 513 * Farmington, MI * 48332 * (248) 477-4210 * Info@send.org
ul. Malinowa 2 * 59-300 * Lubin * Poland* +(48+ 76) 844 1351* pceager@orange.pl * eagercarlene@yahoo.com
Vonage: 574-830-1260
“ Wesołych Swiat Bozego Narodzenia!”
Merry Christmas!
We had such a wonderful Thanksgiving season with having
three different times with English parties, one time with
missionary friends and another time with our church body
eating all the leftovers from the meal the day before and there
was enough for all (about 20 or so) to have very full plates!
We had a lot of time to reflect on the many good things we
do have and the blessings that God has given us. And now,
December 7th, our minds have begun to change thinking and
gear towards Christmas. Today, we started focusing on
Christmas, too, by making an advent chain using activities “to
do” for each day until Christmas Eve (the main day here - not
Christmas Day) to prepare our hearts for the season. Also,
today is the first time I listened to Christmas music while making
the dough for Christmas cut-out cookies we'll need for our
English Christmas party. So, for us, the season has “officially”
begun! Instead of us writing all the information down, the
enclosed paper gives you an idea of what a traditional Polish
Christmas looks like. We have had the privilege to be a part of
many of these traditions with our Polish friends. We’re looking
forward this year to celebrate together with our church family
and friends.
We wish you a very blessed holiday season. May God give
us opportunities to tell people we know about Christ and His
love this season!
Merry Christmas!,
Paul, Carlene, Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
SEND International * PO Box 513 * Farmington, MI * 48332 * (248) 477-4210 * Info@send.org
ul. Malinowa 2 * 59-300 * Lubin * Poland* +(48+ 76) 844 1351* pceager@orange.pl * eagercarlene@yahoo.com
Vonage: 574-830-1260
Saturday, December 13, 2008
December 2008 Prayer Update
December 7-13
Praise: Ben Rowe (short-termer for one year with SEND) has arrived and is getting settled and adjusted and well on his way learning Polish and getting involved in music ministry in the church which is an area we really, really have needed help. Also, we have felt the Lord leading us to begin a seeker type/discussion group for our English students. Ben would like to reach out by teaching the Bible so we’ll see what happens!
Prayer: Pray that indeed English students will want to be a part of this discussion group and that God would give Ben and Paul and others involved wisdom to know how to plan for this.
Pray also for our English Christmas parties we’ll be having this Friday, the 12th—4:00 for the children’s groups and 6:00 for the adults. We’ll be talking about Christmas and singing carols and decorating Christmas cookies. Pray for the Holy Spirit to speak and move!
We will also be starting the Scouts club again, this Saturday being the first meeting. This is geared to teach youth life skills, character building and Bible lessons. For now, it will be once a month. Pray for God’s leading and wisdom and for changed lives in the youths!
December 14-20
Praise: We’re so thankful for our Mother Church who encourages us and helps us. They let us “be on our own” but the Pastor and others are willing to help. Tomek, from the church, will be giving the message this Sunday.
Prayer: We’ve given parents and students from our English classes and others we know, a questionnaire asking them their interests for their child (Bible stories, crafts, music workshops, etc…) and for the parents themselves (cooking classes, ladies meetings, various workshops, etc..) and we are waiting now until they have been returned. We are praying that from these, we will know better what the needs and interests are and plan activities accordingly. Please pray for parents and kids to turn these sheets in and then for wisdom in how God wants us to use them.
December 21-27
Praise: For a school break for the kids and for English classes for two weeks. It’s nice to have a breather once in a while. J
Prayer: Pray for special times this year for each member of our church this Christmas. Our church body has grown so much closer these past several months and we have a burden for all to know Christ (for some who don’t know Him yet) and for all to know Him deeper.
December 28-January 3
Praise: God has given Paul wonderful opportunities these past weeks to share with his English conversation students what it means to be a Christian. We’re thankful they’re open and pray that they’ll continue to be.
Prayer: Daniel Trusiewicz, leader for the Baptist missions movement here in Poland, will be visiting us this Sunday, the 28th, and giving the sermon. Pray for the Lord to speak through Him and that we can mutually encourage each other. Pray for God to raise up many Polish leaders and missionaries. There are so few Polish pastors and missionaries.
SEND International * PO Box 513 * Farmington, MI * 48332 * (248) 477-4210 * Info@send.org
ul. Malinowa 2 * 59-300 * Lubin * Poland* +(48+ 76) 844 1351* pceager@orange.pl * eagercarlene@yahoo.com
Vonage: 574-830-1260
Praise: Ben Rowe (short-termer for one year with SEND) has arrived and is getting settled and adjusted and well on his way learning Polish and getting involved in music ministry in the church which is an area we really, really have needed help. Also, we have felt the Lord leading us to begin a seeker type/discussion group for our English students. Ben would like to reach out by teaching the Bible so we’ll see what happens!
Prayer: Pray that indeed English students will want to be a part of this discussion group and that God would give Ben and Paul and others involved wisdom to know how to plan for this.
Pray also for our English Christmas parties we’ll be having this Friday, the 12th—4:00 for the children’s groups and 6:00 for the adults. We’ll be talking about Christmas and singing carols and decorating Christmas cookies. Pray for the Holy Spirit to speak and move!
We will also be starting the Scouts club again, this Saturday being the first meeting. This is geared to teach youth life skills, character building and Bible lessons. For now, it will be once a month. Pray for God’s leading and wisdom and for changed lives in the youths!
December 14-20
Praise: We’re so thankful for our Mother Church who encourages us and helps us. They let us “be on our own” but the Pastor and others are willing to help. Tomek, from the church, will be giving the message this Sunday.
Prayer: We’ve given parents and students from our English classes and others we know, a questionnaire asking them their interests for their child (Bible stories, crafts, music workshops, etc…) and for the parents themselves (cooking classes, ladies meetings, various workshops, etc..) and we are waiting now until they have been returned. We are praying that from these, we will know better what the needs and interests are and plan activities accordingly. Please pray for parents and kids to turn these sheets in and then for wisdom in how God wants us to use them.
December 21-27
Praise: For a school break for the kids and for English classes for two weeks. It’s nice to have a breather once in a while. J
Prayer: Pray for special times this year for each member of our church this Christmas. Our church body has grown so much closer these past several months and we have a burden for all to know Christ (for some who don’t know Him yet) and for all to know Him deeper.
December 28-January 3
Praise: God has given Paul wonderful opportunities these past weeks to share with his English conversation students what it means to be a Christian. We’re thankful they’re open and pray that they’ll continue to be.
Prayer: Daniel Trusiewicz, leader for the Baptist missions movement here in Poland, will be visiting us this Sunday, the 28th, and giving the sermon. Pray for the Lord to speak through Him and that we can mutually encourage each other. Pray for God to raise up many Polish leaders and missionaries. There are so few Polish pastors and missionaries.
SEND International * PO Box 513 * Farmington, MI * 48332 * (248) 477-4210 * Info@send.org
ul. Malinowa 2 * 59-300 * Lubin * Poland* +(48+ 76) 844 1351* pceager@orange.pl * eagercarlene@yahoo.com
Vonage: 574-830-1260
Monday, November 3, 2008
“Continually Learning to Live Out the Fruit of the Spirit”
You've probably wondered why it's taken us so long to write since we've been back in Poland! We're wondering the same thing because we should've written sooner! After almost two months, we're still trying to get things settled and organized and back in place! What we do know and want you to know is that we surely haven't forgotten you! We think about you pretty often and the wonderful time we could have in the States this past summer! We have not forgotten either how the Lord brought us back on our desired return date. We will always be thankful and keep that experience as a remembrance of God's faithfulness and a growing time in our lives.
Since returning to Poland, we've plunged into our regular activities almost as if we hadn't been gone! Two days after we got back , the kids got off to a great start in school. They were excited to see their friends again and Alaina especially to begin 1st grade!
It was so good for us to see our church family and teammates and worship together again! It was fun catching up with friends and contacts in the community, many wondering why we would want to come back! “It's our home here, we help and work here, God wants us here,” we say. What a deep-down joy to be back and continue on building relationships with our friends, saved and unsaved.
Our expression this time about living out the Fruits of the Spirit is something we are learning yet again! Always! It has not been easy since our return in some areas. There have been cultural and personality issues that have been a source of struggle, unlike it's ever been before. I went to a teacher store before we left to get some things for English and saw a colorful poster with the verses of the Fruits of the Spirit listed. Though it doesn't exactly match the “decor” of the house, I put it up right in our entryway anyway in a place where we often look. It's good to be reminded often!
There have been times in the last couple of months that I have literally bitten my tongue. What I have wanted to say actually does need to be said but not in the way I wanted to say it at that time. Ohhh, to constantly see things through God's eyes and act and react as He would! Living out the Fruits of the Spirit puts things in perspective- looking and acting as God would- so that our “humanness” in us does not take over. “And they'll know we are Christians by our love”. That's how we want those around us to see us. That's how we'll make a difference here. Please pray for us, for daily wisdom and Fruit-filled lives so others can see the Spirit in us!
We are so thankful to be involved in people's lives here. Thank you for being a part of the work here!
Blessings,
Paul, Carlene, Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
Since returning to Poland, we've plunged into our regular activities almost as if we hadn't been gone! Two days after we got back , the kids got off to a great start in school. They were excited to see their friends again and Alaina especially to begin 1st grade!
It was so good for us to see our church family and teammates and worship together again! It was fun catching up with friends and contacts in the community, many wondering why we would want to come back! “It's our home here, we help and work here, God wants us here,” we say. What a deep-down joy to be back and continue on building relationships with our friends, saved and unsaved.
Our expression this time about living out the Fruits of the Spirit is something we are learning yet again! Always! It has not been easy since our return in some areas. There have been cultural and personality issues that have been a source of struggle, unlike it's ever been before. I went to a teacher store before we left to get some things for English and saw a colorful poster with the verses of the Fruits of the Spirit listed. Though it doesn't exactly match the “decor” of the house, I put it up right in our entryway anyway in a place where we often look. It's good to be reminded often!
There have been times in the last couple of months that I have literally bitten my tongue. What I have wanted to say actually does need to be said but not in the way I wanted to say it at that time. Ohhh, to constantly see things through God's eyes and act and react as He would! Living out the Fruits of the Spirit puts things in perspective- looking and acting as God would- so that our “humanness” in us does not take over. “And they'll know we are Christians by our love”. That's how we want those around us to see us. That's how we'll make a difference here. Please pray for us, for daily wisdom and Fruit-filled lives so others can see the Spirit in us!
We are so thankful to be involved in people's lives here. Thank you for being a part of the work here!
Blessings,
Paul, Carlene, Andrew, Aaron and Alaina
November 2008
November, 2008
We have seen a change in our church the past two months. It’s not because there a lot more people (it’s about the same 20-25), or have these really great sermons or because we have outstanding music or super-organized services. Actually, looking at our church through human eyes, believe us, we need a big improvement in all these areas! But, what we have seen is a desire for believers in the church to want to come, bringing unsaved friends, staying afterwards for an hour or two and fellowshipping, meetings that have confirmed unity and that we’re “on the same page” (even though we might have different preferences or ideas about some things), an excitedness and a desire to be together. It’s so exciting! There is all of this GOOD and yet we NEED the LORD to pour out His SPIRIT, giving us wisdom and direction and His LOVE!
Because we’re so late in getting prayer requests to you, we thought we’d just do one month this time.
November 2-8:
Praise: We praise God for YOU! Praise Him for allowing us to come before the kids started school. Praise Him for His church here in Lubin!
Prayer: For our church to continue to grow, for us to have wisdom and direction in how God would have our church grow, for unsaved contacts to want to come, for the land the city has allotted for “bettering the community” to become a reality soon, for the restructuring that is taking place regarding church activities, English school and Coffee House hours.
November 9-15:
Praise: We have over 100 students in our Language Center “Logos”, ages 5-50+. For many, it’s their 2nd or 3rd year. Many are new students. Praise for opportunities to speak about Christ.
Prayer: Pray for Paul who has about 9 people he meets with for conversational English, for Carlene who teaches 3 groups twice a week and an individual, for Bogusia who leads the school. Continue to pray for spiritual interest, good conversations, and an English discussion club we’d like to start.
November 16-22:
Praise: The kids have adjusted well to school. We have good relationships with their teachers and the kids’ friends. We have many students at the Language school from the kids’ school so we see many regularly.
Prayer: We need wisdom in when to start having Logosiaki, our weekly Kid’s Club. Many kids have been asking about it. We’d like to take a new direction and focus, trying to include their parents more. Pray for wisdom in thinking through this. It’s such a neat, critical ministry!
November 23-29:
Praise: For religious freedom here in Poland and that we are free to meet together whenever we want!
Prayer: We’ll be having two days of Thanksgiving celebrations with our English classes, the 27th and 28th. This is because we have about 60 kids and with their parents who are invited to come, we won’t fit everybody all at once! The adults will also have a Thanksgiving celebration. Pray for preparations this week as well as the Holy Spirit to work during these afternoons/evenings. Pray for good conversations and for things to run smoothly. This is one of our favorite times.
We’ll also be hosting our SEND missionary Thanksgiving celebration this Saturday (Thursday isn’t a holiday here! ). J Pray for a refreshing time and planning details to go smoothly and that I’ll find a turkey big enough for close to 30 people!
We have seen a change in our church the past two months. It’s not because there a lot more people (it’s about the same 20-25), or have these really great sermons or because we have outstanding music or super-organized services. Actually, looking at our church through human eyes, believe us, we need a big improvement in all these areas! But, what we have seen is a desire for believers in the church to want to come, bringing unsaved friends, staying afterwards for an hour or two and fellowshipping, meetings that have confirmed unity and that we’re “on the same page” (even though we might have different preferences or ideas about some things), an excitedness and a desire to be together. It’s so exciting! There is all of this GOOD and yet we NEED the LORD to pour out His SPIRIT, giving us wisdom and direction and His LOVE!
Because we’re so late in getting prayer requests to you, we thought we’d just do one month this time.
November 2-8:
Praise: We praise God for YOU! Praise Him for allowing us to come before the kids started school. Praise Him for His church here in Lubin!
Prayer: For our church to continue to grow, for us to have wisdom and direction in how God would have our church grow, for unsaved contacts to want to come, for the land the city has allotted for “bettering the community” to become a reality soon, for the restructuring that is taking place regarding church activities, English school and Coffee House hours.
November 9-15:
Praise: We have over 100 students in our Language Center “Logos”, ages 5-50+. For many, it’s their 2nd or 3rd year. Many are new students. Praise for opportunities to speak about Christ.
Prayer: Pray for Paul who has about 9 people he meets with for conversational English, for Carlene who teaches 3 groups twice a week and an individual, for Bogusia who leads the school. Continue to pray for spiritual interest, good conversations, and an English discussion club we’d like to start.
November 16-22:
Praise: The kids have adjusted well to school. We have good relationships with their teachers and the kids’ friends. We have many students at the Language school from the kids’ school so we see many regularly.
Prayer: We need wisdom in when to start having Logosiaki, our weekly Kid’s Club. Many kids have been asking about it. We’d like to take a new direction and focus, trying to include their parents more. Pray for wisdom in thinking through this. It’s such a neat, critical ministry!
November 23-29:
Praise: For religious freedom here in Poland and that we are free to meet together whenever we want!
Prayer: We’ll be having two days of Thanksgiving celebrations with our English classes, the 27th and 28th. This is because we have about 60 kids and with their parents who are invited to come, we won’t fit everybody all at once! The adults will also have a Thanksgiving celebration. Pray for preparations this week as well as the Holy Spirit to work during these afternoons/evenings. Pray for good conversations and for things to run smoothly. This is one of our favorite times.
We’ll also be hosting our SEND missionary Thanksgiving celebration this Saturday (Thursday isn’t a holiday here! ). J Pray for a refreshing time and planning details to go smoothly and that I’ll find a turkey big enough for close to 30 people!
SEND International * PO Box 513 * Farmington, MI * 48332 * (248) 477-4210 * Info@send.org
ul. Malinowa 2 * 59-300 * Lubin * Poland* +(48+ 76) 844 1351* pceager@orange.pl * eagercarlene@yahoo.com
Vonage: 574-830-1260
ul. Malinowa 2 * 59-300 * Lubin * Poland* +(48+ 76) 844 1351* pceager@orange.pl * eagercarlene@yahoo.com
Vonage: 574-830-1260
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