Most of my journals come out of mission service in faraway places.  But I've been privileged in the last couple of months to have several opportunities to serve Christ's global mission relatively close to home.

Early in August I had the chance to present the Bible studies at the West Virginia Baptist Convention's "Camp Global."  I always enjoy the opportunity to look at God's Word with God's people, but my time at Camp Global included a special treat:  the opportunity to meet, talk and pray with several people who are responding to God's call to missionary service.  I was inspired and excited by the testimonies of men and women who see God's hand upon their lives, guiding them toward cross-cultural service for the gospel of Jesus Christ.  Mission partners around the world are urging International Ministries to send them missionary co-workers.  Might the Lord be calling you to respond?  Pray about the listings on this website.  Give the IM staff a call.  You might be the answer to somebody's prayer!

Shortly after Camp Global, I had the privilege of gathering with pastors in Pennsylvania for a highly-participatory inductive Bible study workshop.  For many years, I have made a small contribution to ABCOPAD's Church Leadership Institute (CLI), helping the region's congregational leaders better understand what God accomplishes around the world through International Ministries.  During one of those CLI sessions, I got to talking with Frank Frischkorn, the region's Executive Minister, about the possibility of doing with Pennsylvania pastors the kind of Bible study training I do with pastors and seminarians in the rest of the world.  We had a wonderful 2-day study retreat in Watsontown, digging into Mark's Gospel.  

Then September began with a bang, as I flew out to California on Labor Day to begin a two-week intensive (make that, INTENSIVE!) course at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena.  It was an honor to be part of the learning experience for Fuller's first Doctor of Ministry cohort of Latino pastors.  My role was to further enrich their understanding and use of Scripture as they lead their congregations to be more effectively missional within U.S. urban contexts.  We had an exciting time studying Jonah, Ephesians and Mark together.  I also was struck anew by the special challenges facing some immigrant ministries.  For example:  picture yourself as the pastor of an immigrant congregation that includes both citizens/residents and undocumented people.  How do you respond to the call informing you that an INS sweep has just whisked away this Sunday's praise & worship team... together with 40% of your whole congregation?  Or, what is the path of wisdom when the number of people who show up to study in your Bible institute is several times larger than you can accommodate?  I was inspired by the commitment and creativity of this group of pastors, and grateful for the chance to help them hone their skills for ministry!

At the beginning of October I will return to the international scene, working with pastors and other congregational and community leaders in Nicaragua.

Thanks for the prayers and financial support that make this ministry possible--including your gifts to the World Mission Offering!!