Michael Banks - Youth Ministries in United States

September 2010 Prayer Letter

2010-09-07T22:08:00.004-04:00

I'll be changing the blogsite soon...and then keeping it up to date. Here is a copy of my September 2010 prayer letter almost ready to be mailed... Thanks, Mike

SCCLC Camps 2010 - Slideshow

2010-03-25T13:54:00.002-04:00

Camps 2010

2010-03-11T14:12:00.001-04:00

Student Leaders Did an Excellent Job!!!

2009-11-24T16:36:00.006-04:00

Last Monday, November 16, four students took over Bible study while I was ministering in Argentina. All reports came back that they did an awesome job!

Paul and Jesse had the place setup and ready before anyone arrived and made sure it was packed up and locked up at the end.

Andrew took the praise items at the beginning of the study and led the students to the throne in prayer. Then after the Bible study time, he took prayer requests and had a time of prayer with the group.

Danny led the study itself on the theme of encouragement. He was engaging the youth to be involved, challenging small groups in discussions and presenting his thoughts from his own preparation. He even had the groups present skits representing the theme and had individuals write "encouragement notes" to help them begin applying this scriptural mandate.

I praise God for His leaders who responded to this call (and for all the others who pitched in as well) to step out of their comfort zones and step up in front to lead 25 of their peers.

Our challenge/theme this year, to be a godly example NO MATTER HOW YOUNG YOU ARE, is being lived out through our young people.

Praise God and Keep Praying!

Off to Argentina...

2009-11-14T15:02:00.004-04:00

Sunday, November 15, I'll leave Santa Cruz for Cordoba, Argentina. I'll join our WGM missionaries to Argentina for their field conference and staff retreat. I'll be providing ministry to the young people while their parents are occupied in meetings.

I'm due back in Santa Cruz on Sunday evening, November 22. Our WGM staff conference here in Santa Cruz then begins on the morning of the 23rd. That is set to go through Wednesday and then we plan to spend Thanksgiving together. Should be a busy, but good week together.

After the holiday week off school, we only have 3 weeks before the end of the semester. These are busy, but good days...

Since my last blog, I've been involved in many activities. Monday, I had the drama crew over for dinner after a dress rehearsal, so they could stay on for our Monday evening Bible study.

Two weeks ago, we had a servant day with the youth.

Then, just last week, there was a four-school tournament involving our varsity soccer and volleyball teams. It was a full and tiring three-day event, but our young people did an excellent job in competition while conveying a godly testimony to the other schools.
Between two soccer games, the coach asked me to host the team for dinner so he could share a brief challenge and devotional with them. It was great to see how they worked together, supported each other and fought hard.
As I head off to Argentina, please pray with me that I will be used of God. I'm also praying for physical and spiritual rest as I "take a break" from the norm.

Please pray for our Monday night Bible study on the 16th as several of our young people take charge. I know God will use them in a mighty way as they reach outside their comfort zones!

Thank you for your vital part in this ministry!

Blessings!

Raising the Bar...

2009-10-20T10:48:00.010-04:00

High School Retreat - Raising the Bar - was an awesome time away with 67 students. We left Santa Cruz on Friday afternoon and spent the weekend in the mountain village of Samaipata at a place called Cabañas Traudi. The weather was set to rain for the weekend, but we enjoyed the three days without a drop.

I was privileged to share the main messages on Friday and Saturday nights and the closing challenge on Sunday morning. Friday night, the focus was Got Expectations? - challenging each of us to quit living in the chicken coop, jump the fence and soar like eagles. Saturday evening's challenge was Raising the Bar - going deeper & higher both personally and spiritually. Several commitments were made that evening for salvation and, for others, to allow Christ to not only be Savior, but Lord. Sunday's closing session was to Do Hard Things, based on many of the challenges from the book with the same title.

Arianne loves to pose for the pictures...not sure if she realizes there's a dodge ball game going on???

It was a great group of young people and leaders. In all, we were some 84 people there for retreat (not all the staff made the picture).

At the end of small group time, each group presented a skit reminding us of the dangers of the "love for something" that has gone bad.

Susan Pedraza, a senior, shared her testimony for Saturday morning's devotional. She blessed each of us as she shared what God has been doing in and through her life. An encouraging challenge!

It takes a huge amount of work to have retreat. The staff of cooks, counselors, etc. did great. I'm also SO thankful for the group of young people that are willing to not only chip in, but work HARD!

Thank you for your prayers for the last week and a half of activity. God blessed both the Spiritual Emphasis Week and the retreat that followed. Pray for our youth who made some tough, but important decisions in their spiritual lives. Also pray for those who continue to search!

Blessings!

Spiritual Emphasis Week...Going Well...

2009-10-13T18:47:00.002-04:00

We're having a great Spiritual Emphasis week with Franco Salvatori. We got started first thing Monday morning with our first chapel. On Monday afternoon, the junior high students loaded up and headed to an ice cream shop to hang out and get to know Franco a little better. Afterward, we returned to the house and Franco shared his testimony with them and answered their questions about his life.
At 6:30, the high school students came over to enjoy fellowship and dinner together. 50 young people we in attendance as we ate and then Franco again shared his heart with them.
Chapels are going on each day and the young people are being challenged in their spiritual lives.
At the end of the week, 67 high school students are scheduled to go on a retreat. We're all excited about the time away and continued ministry to all involved.

Pray for the remaining chapels and for the upcoming retreat. I will be sharing on retreat about Raising the Bar! spiritually in our lives. Pray that I will be able to get all the preparations finished and that all of us attending will be open to the Lord's work in our lives.

Blessings!

Be Praying ... Spiritual Emphasis & High School Retreat

2009-10-05T08:27:00.003-04:00

We're in the midst of preparations for our upcoming Spiritual Enrichment Week at the Santa Cruz Christian Learning Center. I'm thankful to have Franco Salvatori return to Santa Cruz to challenge us once again. We will have special chapels each day at school.On Monday, we're also having special times with Franco after the normal school schedule. The junior high will be going out for ice cream and then Franco will share his testimony and let them get to know him better.

After we return, the high school are invited over for dinner and a special Bible study with Franco.

I'm excited about Franco's challenge to RE-Think our relationship with Christ and understand what that looks like for each of us.
On Friday, October 16, we're having a retreat with the high school students. This is not a school event, but we're excited that most of our students will be attending this voluntary time away from Santa Cruz. I will be sharing messages loosely based on the book, Do Hard Things. Franco will attend the retreat to continue ministry with the youth one-on-one and lead our worship music.

Please be in prayer for both of these events. I've been in prayer for a real revival in the lives of our youth and within our staff and leadership! I'm also praying that God's message will be clearly conveyed by both me and Franco.

Portraits and Mission Meetings

2009-09-19T18:27:00.003-04:00

This was the week for yearbook pictures. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday I took the portrait pictures for our school yearbook. In all, I took some 600 pictures of the students, Pre-Kinder through twelfth grade, and staff. It was tiring, but fun. Right after the pictures on Friday, I headed to the mission office to participate in a mission board meeting.
Then today we had a mini-staff meeting with all the WGM missionaries in Bolivia. We had a good time of worship and discussion and went over some important information and further training.

Throughout the week, I continued the regular ministries of Bible study, accountability times, chapel music coordination and leading chapel on Wednesday.

I'm preparing for a junior high Bible study next week and I am getting ready for our upcoming Spiritual Enrichment week and high school retreat which will take place in Mid-October...always something to keep me busy!

Bible Studies and Chapels...

2009-09-13T21:02:00.004-04:00

We're off to a great start for our weekly high school Bible studies and secondary chapels at school.Each Monday evening, about 35 to 40 young people have been gathering to study a series I've drawn from the book, Jesus Did It Anyway. It's a great challenge to live right no matter what the world throws at us!We've had a variety of chapels and I've been able to share twice from our theme verse, I Timothy 4:12. First I shared the challenge for ALL Christians to give a clear testimony and live a godly example, no matter our age. This last week, the message focused on giving a clear example of Christ through our words.This week's activities include: accountability time with a few of the guys; Bible study on Monday evening; set-up and shooting of yearbook pictures; direct the chapel music team and Wednesday's chapel; attend a mission board meeting; participate in an all-mission meeting; and continue preparations for upcoming Bible studies as well as our spiritual enrichment week and high school retreat in October.

Thank you so much for all your prayers! Blessings!

Senior Retreat...

2009-09-02T13:57:00.010-04:00

Senior retreat went on last week from Thursday through Sunday. The school had a scheduled day off on Friday, so we took advantage of the extra time and left from my place on Thursday at 4. All, but 2, of this year's senior class were able to attend. Emily Barlow, far left in the middle row, went along to help as the female chaperon.
The class was able to goof-off, as well as get serious when it was appropriate. The focus of the weekend is to prepare them for transition that the senior year will bring continuing on after graduation. Another purpose of the weekend away is to build unity and acceptance.

We were involved in several group activities and team builders during the day. You would be amazed at how difficult it is to raise a 1-pound pole TOGETHER with only your fingertips!Although some of the activities were challenging, the class took the challenges and worked together...having fun doing it!

Building trust in each other and applying that to our trust in God was another focal point.

Yes, I trust them as well!

Of course, a good game of volleyball is always in order...well, a dozen games is even better.

We had a session each evening. My part in the session was not terribly lengthy, but each session seemed to get longer as they shared. God really blessed these times together and I believe He used them to draw the young people together!

Contrary to the photo at the beginning, they can be normal! They can also be leaders and set the spiritual atmosphere at the school, which they've already been doing...see below!

On Tuesday, the seniors instigated a student led prayer group.
17 young people met at 7:30 to have prayer for each other, the school, their teachers, etc.! PTL!!!

Please remember the class of 2010 as they take their "position" in school very seriously. They know how to have fun, but most of them also know the importance of their relationship with God. Pray that they will develop that relationship first and the overflow will be seen in their leadership and testimonies!

SCCLC is Up and Running...

2009-08-20T09:05:00.004-04:00

Classes started at the Learning Center on Monday, August 10. After the half-day at school, the seniors came over to have lunch together and spend some time catching up. They're a great class and I'm excited to be their sponsor. Remember them in prayer as the begin this adventure of their last year in school! They're pictured to the right...

I spoke from our theme verse, I Timothy 4:12, for our opening chapel on Wednesday. I will present 6 more chapels from that verse, interspersed throughout this semester, to challenge the students and staff to be Godly examples in all areas of life.

Friday the 14th, I opened up my house on Friday to all the high school to get together, fellowship and I was also able to share a challenge regarding chasing after temporal things...
Monday's Bible study this week with the high school went very well. Over 40 students attended as we began our study from the book Jesus Did It Anyway.

Tuesday, I hosted the junior high for their first outting. We had a Banana Split Bubble Bash. It was a fun time together with 21 7th and 8th graders...ah, to have 1/4 of their energy!
The semester is in full swing and I'm excited for what lies ahead. Please keep us in your prayers as we seek to minister to these young people and encourage them to minister to each other.

Blessings!

Another Week with Cody Kargus' Team and Ministry Preparations...

2009-08-03T13:27:00.002-04:00

Last Monday, I hosted the team of 35 for dinner and fellowship. About 15 of our youth joined us for fellowship as well.
On Thursday evening, we gathered again with the team for a night of drama. The youth also played games and continued to get to know each other.
Then on Friday, we had an all day discipleship workshop. A dozen of our youth and about a dozen from the team were together for sessions on their Christian walk and also meaningful times of prayer.
Cody continued to challenge us from the Word throughout the day.

Wednesday morning, Cody and his team will head back to Wisconsin. It's been a blessing to have them minister here in Bolivia at several orphanages, churches and with our youth.

Next week, August 10, classes begin. This week, we're in the midst of orientation and preparing the campus for the new school year. There's still much to do, but things are falling in place.

Please pray for each of us that we would be physically and mentally ready for the challenges that lay ahead.

Blessings!

Time with Cody Kargus' team...

2009-07-25T18:30:00.003-04:00

Last night, several of the SCCLC youth joined Cody's team for games and fellowship. It was a great time of hanging-out and Cody gave us a great spiritual challenge!
On Monday evening, the team of 36 will join me at my place for dinner and sharing. We've also invited the SCCLC youth back to enjoy some fellowship as well. Pray that it's a great evening together. Also, please continue to pray for the team as they minister in orphanages and churches in the area.

Senior Class Get-together...

2009-07-17T09:49:00.003-04:00

Last night, 5 of the up-and-coming senior class came over to have dinner and a Bible study. Most of the class of 20 are not here in Bolivia or at least not in Santa Cruz, but those that are here wanted to have the chance to fellowship and requested a Bible study. I was very happy to oblige and enjoyed our time over dinner and then a study in Matthew 16.

The discussion focus was on our perception and how that many times affects our attitude and how we see God working in situations. Christ saw things from God's point of view and his disciples had a hard time getting connected with that. The challenge for me, and I pray these students, is to open up to seeing things from His point of view and back off from the small picture we see and allow God to reveal the big picture.

We also talked about our priorities for their senior year, and life in general; about what's really important. Finally, we closed with prayer for the year to come as they lifted up their classmates, the school and God's leading throughout.

At school, I'm still helping to oversee much of the construction going on. We're only 3 weeks away from classes beginning and there's still much to do. Here at the house, I've been working on my office, going through paperwork and getting to the new calendar for the year as well as other projects in preparation for the new year.

Next Wednesday, Cody Kargus will arrive with a team of 31 students who will be doing ministry as well as a discipleship "course". I will be available to help out and look forward to the times together. We will be incorporating events with our "kids" too, so it should be a busy, but fun, couple of weeks.

Thanks for all your prayers!

Staff Retreat & getting some youth together...

2009-07-11T17:23:00.003-04:00

Right after my trip to the States, I was getting things in line for our annual missionary staff retreat. This is an opportunity for the missionary staff to get together, take a short break from ministry and be personally challenged spiritually. We were privileged to have special speaker Tommy Anderson and his wife Laverne come all the way from Ireland to minister to our group. The Lord used his messages and their open lives to bless each of us.

Our last session together was communion. Tommy led this special time of worship and prayer.

My role, as retreat director, was to coordinate all the activities, meals (I didn't cook), accommodations, etc. I also led one of our sessions entitled "Jesus Did it Anyway" based on a book by Kent Keith.

On of our Bolivian missionaries currently on educational leave at Asbury Seminay, Kelly Langdoc, came back to Bolivia to help with retreat by leading music and the youth sessions. It was great to have her back and we really appreciated her ministry to us. Kaylynn Lampen, one of our "MK's" helped by accompanying Kelly for the singing.

Laura Boyce, a missionary with South Amercia Mission, joined us at the retreat to lead the children's program. The kids had a great time and were always excited about going to their "classes."

It was a great week and I believe the Lord really blessed our time. Since it's winter, the weather can get a bit cold, but we had a very mild week.

Since retreat, I've been working at the house, getting things in order for the new school year. I also participated in our mission board meeting on Monday and have been at the school a few times to help oversee much of the work going on there.

Thursday afternoon, three of the graduates came over to visit over lunch. We had a great time of fellowhip and it was good to catch up on how things are going for them. They will all be leaving over the next several weeks to head to college. The transitions continue, but it's been exciting to see how God will be using these young lives.

Friday night, a dozen of the youth came over to eat pizza and hang out. Many of the young people are traveling over break, so they've had a hard time getting together. We enjoyed the fellowship and the games.

"Summer" (it's winter here) break from classes is a great time to get caught up and even ahead on some the plans for the coming school year. Pray that I will be able to get as much done as possible before Cody Kargus' team arrives on July 22. I'm looking forward to working with this team as much as possible, but will continue prepare at school and here at the house to be ready for our first day of classes on August 10.

Blessings!

Taking a Short Break ... Vacation ...

2009-07-08T12:58:00.006-04:00

During the last week of school and the first week after classes, I had the privilege of having a former student and friend, David Lotz, as a house guest. He was able to visit his friends and also helped me a ton with preparations for all the closing events at school. I left the same day as David, May 30, to head to the US for a few weeks of vacation. I was able to use the time to spend with family, visit with friends, have a brief meeting at the mission, speak in one of my supporting churches and visit another.

The end of the year is always an extremely busy time and emotionally, as well as physically draining. This short break was a great way to recoup and get refreshed for another year of ministry. Below are a few pictures from the time there:

My aunt and uncle, John & Gail, spent a week with us. We were able to hang out a lot and spend some quality time together. Isaac, my nephew, turned 3 in May and he's developed quite a personality. He was fun to get to know a little more and even took to uncle John.
Brook, my niece, turned 5 the week I arrived. She's quite a character as well. We had fun and she did her best to try to keep me in line.
Cindy Haren, her niece and nephew, Ashley & Bryant, and I had the privilege to spend the day in Northern Kentucky at the Creation Museum. It was a great experience. I learned a lot and was able to find quite a few resources. Ken Ham, the museum's founder, gave a presentation that day and it was a very challenging session.

My family: Steve, Warren, Diane, me & David

As always, it's a great joy to spend time with my family. My brothers, parents and I were able to meet for lunch just prior to my departure. Throughout my time in the States, we had several opportunities to catch up and be together. My sisters-in-law, sorry they aren't pictured here, Nina and Karla are fantastic hosts and always make me feel so much at home!

I had three former students and good friends, Nathan, David & Kyle, come to visit during my time there. They try to keep me young, so their visits were great fun. My family seems to always enjoy when the young people come through. It gives them a chance to find out the scoop on my life here in Bolivia!

It was a great time of rest and renewal. When I arrived back in Santa Cruz I hit the ground running, but my time away gave me the energy I needed!

May is History...

2009-06-18T10:27:00.046-04:00

It's hard to imagine how fast one month can pass by; however, May was such a month. After the Junior Senior Banquet on April 25, the hour hands on all my clocks seemed to speed up leaving me little time to update this site or even sleep at times.

The juniors did a fantastic job of putting together this banquet to honor the seniors...plus they looked mighty sharp in suits!!!

God is faithful and I praise Him for continuing to supply strength and health during these busy days, but also for all the blessings of being involved in His ministry to the youth in Bolivia.

Graduation planning, preparations and activities occupied much of my "off" time from normal youth activities. Yet, the ministry did continue and I'd like to share a little of what went on throughout the last several weeks of activities...

A week before all of the end of year events, Liz Morriss and I had a dinner with the senior class. It was a great time of fellowship and fun before life got too busy!

Our last Bible study wound up the series on how our perception of God greatly affects our relationship with Him. The youth stayed very invovled and I believe that God used these times not only to strengthen their relationships with the Lord, but also with each other.

Our junior high end-of-the-year cookout was a great time of fellowship and activities. As usual, Bill and Bev Smith hosted this event and did a fantistic job of preparing the meal and opening their home to some 30 junior high kids.

The following day, the Smiths hosted the high school cookout. It was a great group that came together to celebrate a wonderful year. The youth also honored Liz Morriss, Chad & Emily Jackson and Steve & Becky Swope for their leadership and involvement over the past several years.

Our last chapel was specifically focused on our seniors. It was such a blessing to have Whitney Belovicz and Alejandro Garcia, two of our seniors, share their testimonies and challenges to the student body. God really spoke through their lives!

Graduation activities (besides the weeks of preparation) began with a "walk-through" rehearsal in the school chapel.

Later that evening the senior class, Liz Morriss and I hosted the seniors and their parents for a dinner out. We talked about the graduation and had opportunities to share our thanks with the parents for their support and the privilege to be a part of their childrens' lives.

If it weren't for the junior class' help, I don't think the graduation ceremony would have gone as well. They did a great job making sure everyone found a seat, bringing in extra chairs as more and more people showed up, passing out the programs and escorting in the parents of the seniors. Susan and Maryodette, pictured on the far left of the group of junior girls here, sang a beautiful arrangement of In Christ Alone.

Graduation, held on May 23, was a great celebration for the class of 2009. It was such an honor to work with this class over the last six years. It's been fun to see them grow up and mature...well, somewhat...and I pray that God will continue to use them wherever they go.

Thank you too for your prayers during these busy days!

The end of the year is very difficult because of all that is going on, but mostly because of all the goodbyes. Only two of our twenty-one graduates will remain in Bolivia. The rest are spreading throughout the world. It's like saying goodbye to "my children" except we may never see each other again.

As I said, and firmly believe, God continues to provide peace and supply what's needed to prepare for another year. I'm excited for the next school year will bring, so pray with me that the coming weeks of preparation for 2009-2010 will go well.

I'll also be directing our annual missionary retreat with speaker, Tommy Anderson. Pray these days away will be the renewal we need spiritually and physically to continue the work to which God has called each of us.

Blessings on You!

Bible Studies, Chapel & Communion...

2009-04-10T12:57:00.007-04:00

After spending most of last week away from school and in meetings, it was good to be back with the young people...

Monday, there was chapel music practice after school and then high school Bible study in the evening. We continued with the series on our perception of God and how that affects our relationship with Him.

Tuesday, after saying goodbye to the Gouge's at their home, I headed back to school for preparations for junior high Bible study, chapel and communion. After meeting with two young men for accountability, I headed to the house with about 16 junior high students for Bible study. We talked about the significance of the Easter story and the confidence we can have in Christ.

On Wednesday, we had a special assembly with the junior high and high school students to cover "personal safety." As with any big city, it's a good idea to be reminded on how to avoid dangers, etc.

After the assembly, we had our regular chapel. The emphasis was focused on Holy Week and all that means for each of us. I was challenged to share about several different aspects of the week and their significance, but most specifically on the Veil or Curtain that was torn when Christ died. The symbolism of so many things that happened to Christ during this week is amazing.During the students' lunch time, they were given the opportunity to come back to the chapel to take communion. After I shared a brief challenge the 25+ youth were free to come up and get the bread and juice and Liz Morriss, Steve Swope and I had the privilege to pray with them individually. One of the seniors said he really enjoyed it because it was very personal.

Thank you for all your prayers during these busy, but exciting, days. Pray with me that the young people will continue to seek Christ and never become desensitized to the work He wants to do in each of them!

I pray you have an incredibly meaningful celebration of
the Lord's death AND resurrection as well.
May His work in your life continue to change and mold you!

Meetings and Goodbyes...

2009-04-07T12:59:00.003-04:00

Last week was full of meetings. Tuesday's Executive Committee meeting for the mission here in Bolivia went well. We had a lot on our plate to decide, but the day went by without a glitch.

On Wednesday, we began meeting with Crisis Consulting International to go over the mission's planning and preparation for whatever comes our way. It was a very informative time together, but by Friday afternoon, my brain was quite full.

On Saturday, we met with the entire missionary staff to encourage personal safety in our ever changing world. I'm not sure we covered anything "new", it was just a great reminder.

On Sunday, we met again as a staff, but to say goodbye. We enjoyed dinner together and celebrated the 24 years of ministry of Ron and Bonnie Gouge. Then, this morning, we gathered together to have prayer with them and see them off as they journey to Argentina. Ron was our field director for 10 years and is now going to take on that responsibility for our WGM work in Argentina.Please continue to lift the Gouges in prayer as they launch into this new area of ministry.

Off to La Pajcha...

2009-03-22T20:08:00.003-04:00

One thing I encourage the seniors to do each year is to make a list of all the places they want to visit, foods they want to eat or things they want to do before they leave Bolivia. For many of them, graduation is the last event before moving away from Santa Cruz for good.

Kyle Swope, pictured here in the gray shirt, wanted to head back to the waterfalls, La Pajcha, one last time with a few of his friends. So Paul, Danny, Kyle, Tim and I headed up to the falls last Saturday, March 14. They didn't have school on Monday, so we were able to stay three full days and 2 nights. God gave us AWESOME weather for our entire trip. We had three warm, sunny, clear-sky days in the middle of rainy season to enjoy His incredible nature and the good company.
Yes, these trips are FUN! Yet, they are so important for the friendships and, in this case, the closure for someone such as Kyle leaving. It helps the rest of us in our closure as he won't be here in Bolivia after May.

Pray that the remaining two months of school and activities will bring good closure for all the students that will be moving on and also for those who will be staying behind.

Spiritual Emphasis Week & Servant Day...

2009-03-18T15:45:00.011-04:00

Our Spiritual Emphasis Week, March 9-13, focused on being made in the Image of God and the implications that follow. Steve Swope and I shared in three of the chapels, while the fourth chapel was dedicated to prayer. On Friday, the young people had an opportunity to reach out in community service as we finished up the week with a Servant Day. God blessed throughout the entire week of messages, worship and service!

Monday: Made in His Image - ON Purpose and WITH Purpose

Tuesday: Relationship with God through Prayer

Wednesday: Shaping His Image in You

Thursday: God's Image-Bearer

Friday's activities included painting, sharing and helping in various schools, churches, and other places throughout Santa Cruz. The kids enjoyed the time to reach out and were able to really minister through their giving.

These junior high students helped paint at a church.

I hear they even got some of the paint on the walls!

Senior Trip 2009...

2009-03-17T14:23:00.005-04:00

The senior trip for 2009 was to the area of Bolivia bordering Brazil called the PANTANAL. It is a wetlands area that floods each year from the river, Paraná. There, we stayed in the beautiful Pantanal Hotel and were able to take in a few of the sites.

The 13-hour train ride to Quijaro, our final destination, was, thankfully, very uneventful and rather comfortable. The hotel was nice and gave the 21 students ample space and opporunity to enjoy the days away.
The highlights of the trip included visiting the neighboring Brazilian city of Corumbá, where we spent the day visiting local attractions, shopping and taking a two-hour boat ride on the Paraná river. While abored, we enjoyed the scenery and also the wildlife, including countless birds and crocidiles.

On our outting the following day, we were able to taste crocidile as it was part of our main course for lunch. It doens't taste like chicken; however, I really enjoyed it!

Overall, I beleive it was a fantastic trip. The seniors really enjoyed their times together and made great memories to take with them after they graduate and move on. I really enjoyed my time with them as well...yes, even the 16-hour train ride home!

Pray with me that the seniors will continue to enjoy this semester together and have a great closure to this juncture in life.

SCCLC Camps 2009 Slideshow...

2009-02-18T22:27:00.005-04:00

length ~ approximately 9:30

High School Camp ... The UpsideDown Kingdom...

2009-02-18T21:38:00.006-04:00

It was so much fun to see how our youth connected during our 5-day camp. Not only were their relationships with Christ encouraged, but their friendships deepened! Even siblings, like Sophia and Edwin, deepened their bonds.
Gary continued to challenge us from the word and the music team led their peers to worship.
Okay, this is a game, but they sure seem a little serious about inflicting damage...or at least getting others wet!
Isn't this game rather ... ummm ... interesting?!
I must say, to no surprise, soccer (futbol) knows no end ... even on a soaked and muddy field!
Not only am I old and with much white hair ... well, a little bit of white hair ... but I also have a big mouth. (I had my birthday during camp ... along with three of the students. They had a cake for us, but since I was celebrating, there weren't enough candles!)
Camps were again a wonderful and exciting time for the kids to unite in friendships and grow spiritually. During today's chapel service many of the young people shared of God's faithfulness and their renewed commitment to Him.

Thank you so much for your prayers during these tiring, yet vital days! I believe God honored our time away from the daily routine.

Living Life on the Flipside ... Junior High Camp 2009...

2009-02-08T15:05:00.012-04:00

Junior high camp went very well this past week. We had a great time together and I believe we were able to minister to the young people and be ministered to ourselves.

As you can see below, it takes a large staff to "pull" off the 3-day event. I am so thankful for the godly examples and help from so many staff, counselors and older students. Gary Hansen, below, shared from his heart and being a former student of the Learning Center, was able to connect with the youth.
I was very thankful and proud to have 8 high school students along as staff and counselors. Susan, in the red shirt, and Kaylynn, playing guitar, were in charge of music and did an excellent job leading us into worship. Daniel and Tim, our activities coordinators, willingly helped out with the singing. (neither had done this before)
All of our counselors did great, yet it was especially neat to see four of our seniors invest their lives in the younger students. Below, Hannah is posing with her team.
Whitney is helping her team with their theme poster for the camp.
Edwin is meeting to go over his team's plan of "attack."
And, Alejandro is "egging" his small group on while portraying a chicken.
It was also such a blessing to pass the megaphone on to Daniel and Tim who directed the games. What a privilege to have young people taking on these leadership roles.
This coming week we will be at camp again; now it's for the high school. Seventy-seven campers and 15 staff/counselors will be participating.

- Pray with me that our five days away will be fun, safe and spiritually refreshing.

- Pray that the music team, who ministered at junior high camp, will be ready to minister again in leading our singing. (Susan, Kaylynn, Daniel and Tim)

- Pray that Gary, Liz, Rachel, Douglas, Rachel (another), Bill, Beverly, Pola, Elva and I will be ready for ANOTHER week of camp after just getting back from junior high. The rest of the staff for this week will include: Mary, Emily, Katie and Chad.

Camp Themes...

2009-01-31T22:26:00.003-04:00

SCCLC Camps 2009...coming soon...

2009-01-31T15:01:00.008-04:00

Thursday, four young men helped me pack up, deliver, unpack and set up for our upcoming camps. That included all the kitchen appliances, games, food, tables, chairs and many other items which we hauled two hours north to the campgrounds near the village of Buena Vista. Their hard work was greatly needed and appreciated! (I would show you pictures of that work day, but I forgot to get the camera out of the truck and take any...smooth!)

On February 4, our junior high camp will begin. I still need to hammer out a few things, but it's coming together. Please pray with me that the last-minute details fall into place for our time away. All 31 junior high students are attending and I'm looking forward to see what God has in store for them.

Especially remember the high school students who will be ministering during the junior high retreat in the following capacities:

Counselors: Whitney, Hannah, Alejandro & Edwin
Activities Coordinators: Daniel & Timothy
Guitarist and Song Leader: Kaylynn & Susan

On February 9, we'll load up 77 high school students for their annual camp. They seem excited and ready. I pray this will also be a great time of fellowship, fun and even spiritual growth.

Our speaker for both events is Gary Hansen a graduate from the Learning Center in 2000. He is currently a pastor in Oregon and will be traveling down with his wife, Rachel, and a family friend. Pray for them as they will hit the ground running. Their flight arrives at the same time we will be traveling out to camp!

Every Young Man, God's Man

2009-01-22T14:51:00.003-04:00

The class I've been teaching for the 11th (above) and 12th grade guys on the book Every Young Man, God's Man has been going very well. We have covered a lot of ground during the first week and half of this three-week study, but I pray they've been able to glean a lot from the discussions. Please pray with me that the remaining five sessions will go well and open the doors for these young men in developing their character and integrity!

Tacky Party and on...

2009-01-20T17:40:00.005-04:00

Friday night, we enjoyed the high school tacky party / dinner. Thirty something youth showed up for the new semester celebration. Many came VERY TACKY...all enjoyed fellowship and food.
Monday's Bible study went well as we continued in our study of how we perceive God and how that affects our relationship with Him.

I've also complete a week and a half of studies in the book, Every Young Man, God's Man with the junior and senior guys. We've covered a lot of ground and have a ways to go, but they seemed to be enjoying the times together.

Junior High Ice Cream Bash...

2009-01-16T09:41:00.004-04:00

It was a nice hot afternoon...a perfect time for an ice cream bash. About 19 junior highers attended the afterschool event. We enjoyed a few games together and then we got to build our own sundaes. It was a great kickoff to a new semester.

Bible Study, Welcome Back & Birthday Celebration...

2009-01-13T17:11:00.003-04:00

Last night's Bible study went well. We welcomed back Kelsey Friesen
(above, in the middle), who returned to the Learning Center
after spending a semester in Canada with her family.

After the study, we celebrated 5 birthdays
with brownie cake and ice cream!

It was a fun evening of fellowship and study after the three-week break from classes. Our studies this semester will be focusing on how we view God and what affect that perception has on our relationship with Him!

Back from Peru...

2009-01-10T13:14:00.020-04:00

Danny and I arrived safely back from Peru on Thursday afternoon ...
a little sore, very tired, but doing well.

"I SURVIVED the Inca Trail" is probably much more fitting than
"I CONQUERED the Inca Trail", but I'll take what I can get.
The hike was grueling, but fun; and the scenery was breathtaking!

Here are several pictures to give you a glimpse of our time there...

Courtyard of Koricancha, a historical site in the heart of Cusco.

The central plaza fountain, surrounded by beautiful flowers
and two majestic cathedrals.

One of the Inca ruins near Cusco, boasting amazing craftsmanship!

A boy and his Llama overlooking the city of Cusco.

Opportunity to visit with friends and fellow WGM missionaries,
Ann Seaney and David & Cathlene Strong, who minister in Cusco.

Here we are at the beginning of our four-day hike
with the others in our party.

During our second day of hiking, we crossed a 13,800 foot pass ...
snow was a bonus!

Steps are the Inca way of getting anywhere.
One of the guides described "Inca flat" as being up-down, up-down, etc.On the morning of the third day, the view out of the tent was spectacular!

We finally reached the end of our hike on the fourth day at Machu Picchu,
the most famous of all the Inca ruins
and one of the NEW 7 WONDERS of the WORLD!

Thank you for your prayers for our trip. The time away was needed and a great "rest" from the day-to-day activities. However, it's very good to be home and gearing up for a new semester.

On Monday, I'll begin facilitating a class for the junior and senior boys on the book, Every Young Man, God's Man. It's a three-week section of their Bible class. Pray that the discussions will be applicable and effective.

We'll also start up normal Bible studies, accountability times and youth groups during the first week. Then, in three short weeks, we'll have our annual youth camps. Please pray with me for all the preparations that must come together.

Also pray for the eight high school students (listed below) who will be ministering at junior high camp as counselors and staff. I'm excited about their involvement and pray the Lord will use their testimonies to influence the others.

Counselors: Whitney, Hannah, Alejandro & Edwin
Activities Coordinators: Daniel & Timothy
Guitarist and Song Leader: Kaylynn & Susan

Off to Peru...

2008-12-28T16:26:00.002-04:00

On Tuesday evening, Danny Canaviri and I will be taking a bus to La Paz, Bolivia's capital. From there, we will take another bus to the border with Peru and after crossing the border, we'll catch another bus to Cuzco. We hope to arrive in Cuzco sometime on New Year's day.

On Saturday, Jan 3, we will join a tour group and hike the Inca Trail. The four-day trek includes stops at several Inca ruins and ends at the well-known Inca site, Machu Picchu. We'll then stay there for a day and head back to Cuzco for our trip back to Santa Cruz. If all goes as planned, we'll be back home between Jan 8 and 10.

I'm praying this will be a great time away to get rested up for the next semester of ministry. I'm hoping it's also a great opportunity to hang out with Danny and also visit our missionaries in Peru as well as visit some amazing historic places. Please pray with me that we will have protection, fun and maybe even some rest!

AFTER THE BREAK...

School starts back up on the 12th along with all of the normal youth ministry activities. In addition to the weekly events, I will be facilitating a class on EVERY YOUNG MAN, GOD'S MAN for the 11th and 12th grade boys. This will be a three-week, daily "class" for discussion and study. Please pray with me that each of the students will be involved, attentive and ready to allow God to work in their lives.

Immediately following this class will be our junior high camp, Feb 4-6, followed by high school camp, Feb 9-13. Pray with me that things will fall in to place and preparations will come together. Pray also that the students will be ready for what the Lord has in store for each of them spiritually.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T09:56:00.004-04:00

Please enjoy an incredibly beautiful day of celebration with your family. May God's peace fill your hearts and lives!~ Santa Cruz Christian Learning Center Class of 2010 ~

Are the holidays a busy time?...

2008-12-25T09:28:00.003-04:00

These last few weeks before the school break were incredibly full, but we were able to have a great end to a good semester at school.

During these weeks I was involved in finishing picture packets for those who ordered school portraits of their children. It's a fun, but tedious process that just takes some time.

We were able to finish up the Bible study series from Max Lucado's book, It's Not About Me. Those last three studies went very well and I believe it was a great series for where we are as a youth group.

On December 12th and 13th, I was also in charge of our bi-annual "garage sale" at school. We had more than forty vendors set up their treasures and several hundred shoppers filled the gymnasium looking for the best deals.

During finals week at school, we also had all the closing events for junior high and high school. Monday evening, the high school gathered for our last Bible study of the semester. On Wednesday afternoon, we had an end-of-semester youth group with the junior high, which included food, swimming and a brief challenge. On Thursday afternoon, we did the same with the high school students.On Wednesday evening, I had the junior class over for Christmas dinner and then I hosted the senior class on Thursday evening. It's been fun working with both classes as co-sponsor this year and I look forward to another semester with them.

Since school let for the holiday break, I've been working at the house trying to get caught up and even ahead. I still have a ways to go, but I'm making progress.

Coming up early in second semester, I'll be teaching a three-week portion of the 11th and 12th grade Bible class to the boys. We're going over the books Every Young Man's Battle and Every Young Man, God's Man. I'm looking forward to this time with these 17 young men.

Immediately following this series, we'll be going straight into our junior high and high school youth camps. Gary Hansen, SCCLC graduate of 2000, will be returning to Bolivia to speak at these events. I'm excited to have Gary back in this capacity and look forward to these opportunities to be challenged and challenge the youth spiritually.

In addition to these special events, I'll be resuming and continuing the regular youth activities. Please pray with me that during the break from classes, both the youth and I can be ready for the new semester.

Blessings on you and your family for Christmas and throughout the holidays. I won't be with my immediate family, but I'll be enjoying this special day with my missionary family.

John 1:14

Missionary Staff Conference...

2008-11-30T17:34:00.004-04:00

Our conference this past week went very well. It was good to meet with the staff of the mission and go over reports of ministries and look at new opportunities and challenges for the year to come. I was voted on to the board for another year as 1st member-at-large (or as the youth so kindly say FIRST LARGE MEMBER!).
Here, we are praying for Ron and Bonnie Gouge. They have served WGM Bolivia as our field leaders for the past 11 years. They have accepted the field leadership in Argentina and will be transferring to their new assignment after the first of the year. Please pray for their continued ministries.

Rick (Lori) Lampen has accepted the field leadership as our new Field Director and Len (Betsy) Phillips will be the Assistant Director. Because Len and Betsy are on their Homeland Ministry Assignment right now, I'm the Acting Assistant Director becaue of my position as 1st member-at-large. Confusing? It just means that I'll help out where needed... Please pray for Rick & Lori, Len & Betsy, along with the WGM Bolivia staff, during this time of transition.

Junior High Out...

2008-11-23T19:58:00.004-04:00

Last Tuesday, 21 junior high students joined me and a few others at Buffalo Park after school. (I'm not really sure where that name came from...) There were several activities for the kids to enjoy, but the most popular was laser tag, something new for almost all of them. It was a nice afternoon with friends and they really seemed to enjoy themselves. Our next activity together is Bible study on the afternoon of December 2. Continue to pray that these activities and studies together will not only draw the students closer together in their friendships but also help them in regards to their relationship with God.

Retreat Aftermath...

2008-11-15T20:08:00.003-04:00

This last week was spent in "clean-up" and follow-up from retreat. I still have a few loose ends to tackle, but it should soon be done. I had several great times of follow up with students and was able to get some feedback as to how the retreat went for them spiritually. I believe there have been many good strides in young lives, and pray that this will continue and even grow within the student body.

Monday's Bible study was a good follow up for retreat as well. We looked at making wise decisions and living wisely.

Thursday, I had the privilege to visit with a former student, her husband and several friends from their church. It was really neat to see how God has worked in their lives and great to celebrate with them regarding their baptism, which had occurred the night before.

It's been a great week, but I'm really looking forward to one full-night's sleep! When it will happen? ...only time will tell!

Highlights from Retreat...

2008-11-10T10:31:00.009-04:00

Some of the ladies were relaxing while we waited for the road to open on our way up to Samaipata. The youth made the best of the time and didn't whine or complain...we had a safe trip up even with all the construction on the mountain highway.Our sessions went well. Rhonda Bill did a great job of leading our times of worship music and the kids really sang out. They were also very attentive during the speaking and had many opportunities to be challenged to RENOVATUS...be renovated.Along with the challenges spiritually, the young people enjoyed activities and free time together. They got along very well as they battled it out with mummies, water baloons, human machines and four-way-purpetual capture the flag!

Danny and I battled it out with the belly bumpers.
I must say that I did win the battle, but the war, well it continues...
(Even though I knocked him and several others over a lot,
I think I'm much, much, much more sore then they!
Getting out of bed today was very difficult! Ha...but it's so worth it!)

Thank you for your prayers for this weekend away. I believe God honored those prayers on so many levels. He laid out the weekend with beautiful weather (the first time without rain in all the years we've had retreat...), great attitudes from the kids, open door to travel even though the road is under construction, safety and protection in travel and throughout the weekend's activities, providing cooks on short notice, and open hearts to hear the challenges spiritually.

Please keep praying that God will do some awesome things in and through these young lives. We continue to plant the seeds, but pray that they will be open to receive what Christ desires to do as He renews their hearts and lives!

Praying for Revival...Please Join in...

2008-11-06T13:35:00.005-04:00

Here is a list of retreat participants for this weekend's trip, Nov 7-9. We do request prayer for safety and protection for travel and throughout the retreat events. However, much more than this, we would like prayer for SPIRITUAL REVIVAL! Please join us in this prayer. If you click on this list, it should open in a new window. You can then print a copy for reference throughout the weekend. Thank you!

RENOVATUS...PLEASE PRAY!!!

2008-11-02T18:55:00.011-04:00

Through Christ's continual work within, our lives must be "Renovatus", Latin for "renovated".

I'm reusing our camp 2004 theme for this year's retreat. Of course, the current students were too young to attend in 2004, so it will be fresh and new to them. It really seemed to be the most fitting focus for our three-days away. (Thanks Kent!)

Please pray with me for REVIVAL, that the 57 students attending and each of the 13 staff will be challenged by Scripture and allow God to make them a new creation!

JH Bible Study...Making Wise Decisions...

2008-11-02T18:50:00.002-04:00

19 Junior High students came to Bible study on Friday afternoon. We had a good time hanging out and also discussing the importance of good, wise and godly decisions.
There are consequences for EVERY decision we make. The better the decision, the better the consequence...
Continue to pray for the junior high students as they develop in their relationship with Christ or, for others, decide to become a follower of Christ.

Volleyball Champs...

2008-10-30T16:46:00.005-04:00

Well, Tuesday's championships were very exciting, and that's understating the fact! Both our girls and boys teams played better than anyone could have imagined. The girls had to make a comeback in their first game as they were down by 8 point, but they pulled off a victory to end as champions. The boys started out in a great rhythm and held that for their two-game victory. I'm very happy they won and enjoyed watching both matches, but to see their great sportsmanship and testimony was even better!

What's Going On...

2008-10-26T16:55:00.007-04:00

Here is a copy of the posted schedule for the coming week, to give you an idea of what's going on... Always something going on!

School Portraits...

2008-10-26T16:29:00.002-04:00

One of my "side jobs" over the years has been to take portrait pictures for the SCCLC yearbook. While taking more than 1,000 pictures this last week, several of the high school kids wanted to get some group pictures too. It's been fun to capture the students each year, but it's even more fun to look back through the old yearbooks and see just how much they change!

Birthday Celebration...Purity Commitment...

2008-10-26T16:25:00.004-04:00

Bill and Bev Smith are good friends and coworkers at the Santa Cruz Christian Learning Center. They recently invited me to join their family and the ninth grade class in a celebration of their son Nick's fifteenth birthday. Along with the celebration, they asked me to help present and pray for Nick as they gave him a "purity ring." It was a great time of fellowship and, I pray, a good challenge for Nick and all of his classmates!

JV Finals...

2008-10-16T20:03:00.003-04:00

Tuesday, our JV boys took on the International School for the season championships in volleyball. They struggled through and lost the first game, but changed their strategy and turned the tables in game two by starting with an 8-0 scoring run. They ended up winning the second and third games and are this year's champion within their league.

The girls played for first place this afternoon in soccer. They played a great game and really picked it up in the second half fighting hard. Unfortunately, they couldn't take the lead but held on to second place in the league.

It's been so much fun to watch and support our young people throughout the season. Win or lose, they've displayed wonderful sportsmanship and represented the school well.

Next week, the varsity teams play semi-finals for both volleyball and soccer. I'll keep you posted...

Mid-Semester Bible Study and Dinner...

2008-10-16T19:59:00.004-04:00

Monday, we celebrated the end of the first quarter at Bible study. Since we also had makeup soccer games that afternoon for the varsity boys and girls, we decided to make it an evening of celebration. Immediately following the games, we headed to my place for dinner, singing and a challenge from Scripture.

I shared from James 2 about the apathy many of us go through spiritually. I was challenged through the study in my own relationship with the Lord and many of the young people shared that it was good timing for them as well.

Surgery went well...

2008-10-07T22:57:00.002-04:00

It seems that surgery went well and dad is home recovering fine.

Thank you so much for your prayers!

October 7....and an important prayer request!

2008-10-07T11:06:00.008-04:00

I'd rather have pictures here...but I don't have any right now, so just a short update...

Chapel last Wednesday went well. I spoke on the theme Jesus, The Revolutionary, challenging us to remember that although Christ was Gentle, Meek & Mild, He was also a revolutionary. Not only did He challenge the thinking and practices of His day, but He wants to continue to revolutionize our thinking and very lives today!

Friday's open house went well. I helped the senior class and their sponsor with the dinner before hand. We had approximately 170 people attended and they all seemed to leave satisfied. Afterward, several juniors and seniors invited the sophomore guys to go and hang out together. So 13 of us went Karting and then came back to my house for Sundaes, play ping-pong & Wii, and just hang out together. They seemed to have a great time.

I did get sick over the weekend. I guess it's like a sinus infection, but I've been trying to get my rest and be a good patient. I seem to be on the mend.

Also, over the weekend, I helped to keep track of Steve and Becky Swope's kids. We've been encouraging the couple (he is the director of the school) to take some time off...so they did. I had fun hanging with the young-uns...oh, they're old enough to care for themselves, but it helped me feel important...hehe...plus mom and dad could leave worry-free. I also helped by filling in at church in Steve's absense. He was in charge of Sunday's service including communion.

Last night we had Bible study continuing in our series from It's Not About Me.

My father had surgery last week, but due to complications he is back
in surgery today, Tuesday, October 7, at 1:30. Please be in prayer for him & the surgery to relieve the extreme pain he is experiencing.

Saying Goodbye...

2008-09-30T11:01:00.003-04:00

After Bible study, 20+ students went to the airport to say farewell to Hannah Swindoll pictured here in the green jersey. She and her mother left for the States after serving in missions in Bolivia for a good part of Hannah's life.

Please pray for Hannah and her mother Mary, as they make their adjustments into their "new" life. Pray also for the senior class, the rest of the student body and the staff at SCCLC as we adjust to the changes.

His Unchanging Hand...

2008-09-30T10:53:00.002-04:00

Last night's Bible study was the 6th in the series from Max Lucado's books, It's Not About Me. The study focused on His Unchanging Hand, the stability we can only find in God through Christ.

from Max Lucado's book...

“God never pauses to eat or asks the angels to cover for Him while He naps.

He never signals a time-out or puts the prayer requests from Russia on hold

while He handles South Africa.

He ‘never tires and never sleeps’ (Psalm 121:4).

Need a strong hand to hold? You’ll always find one in His.

His strength never changes.

Need unchanging truth to trust? Try God’s. His truth never wavers.

Your outlook may change. My convictions may sway,

but ‘the Scripture cannot be broken’ (John 10:35). And since it can’t,

since His truth will not waver, God’s ways will never alter.

He will always hate sin and love sinners, despise the proud and exalt the humble. He will always convict the evildoer and comfort the heavy-hearted.

He never changes direction mid-stream, recalibrates the course midway home,

or amends the heavenly Constitution.

God will always be the same.

Catch God in a bad mood? Won’t happen.

Fear exhausting His grace … think He’s given up on you? Wrong.

He’s never sullen or sour, sulking or stressed.

His strength, truth, ways and love never change.

He is ‘the same yesterday and today and forever’ (Heb. 13:8).

And because He is, the Lord ‘will be the stability of your times’ (Isaiah 33:6).”

Why Worry?...Junior High Bible Study...

2008-09-24T10:41:00.011-04:00

Eighteen 7th and 8th graders attended yesterday's Bible study. The subject, WORRY... We're all guilty of taking on worries, when that's really counterproductive. So we challenged each other in the area of first realizing the things that we do worry about, and giving those things over to God...They're really His problem, not ours! Just as Matthew 6 says, "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?"

Uncertainty and unrest can bring much worry. However, God consistently provides peace through the political situation in Bolivia. Please pray for our ministries and daily activities as we seek to continually be effective even during these unsure days...

Jon Birkey's "goodbye"...

2008-09-18T17:16:00.005-04:00

Last night, at prayer meeting, we said our goodbyes to Jon Birkey as well as a few others. He's been volunteering in Bolivia since June completing an internship in missions and youth ministries for his degree from Huntington University. He had the opportunity to visit several of our ministries throughout the country and has assisted the youth program since school began in August.

Please continue to pray for Jon as he seeks to finish his internship, probably in California, over the next 3 months. I have appreciated his help and know that God has some great things in store for him wherever the Lord leads.

God continues to provide much peace during unsure times!

Thank you again for your prayers.

Continue to Pray...

2008-09-16T09:24:00.005-04:00

Last night's Bible study was a little different. Instead of continuing our current study on the Max Lucado series, 24 youth gathered together to have a time of sharing and prayer. They shared their concerns over the current political unrest and the unknown future. Many shared verses from Scriptures that help bring comfort and reassurance in God. We then had times of prayer in small groups and as a body.

Please continue to pray for the young people during these unsure times. Pray for wisdom for all those in leadership throughout the different mission organizations, the Learning Center, and for all the families represented.

Thank you so much for your involvement and support through prayer!

Praying for Bolivia...

2008-09-11T12:21:00.005-04:00

As you may know through international news, Bolivia has been undergoing some strains socially and politically over the last few years. Things have recently become a little more intense, so we would all covet your prayers. God is good and has been faithful in directing our paths.
Please pray for ...
- continued physical safety amidst these changes
- wisdom and discernment for the country's leadership
at all levels within the government
- the Bolivian people who are struggling through this process

Living in Harmony...

2008-09-11T11:11:00.006-04:00

The title for chapel this week was, Living in Harmony. We discussed the importance of realizing how you were "wired" by God and how that affects our relationship with Him. Secondly, all relationships here on earth affect our relationship with God. When there are broken or hurt relationships that we need to resolve, they will only hurt all other relationships until there is resolution.
Continue to pray with me that our student body will walk in "harmony" with each other and with all others whom God places in their paths.

Senior Retreat 2008-09...

2008-09-08T12:00:00.004-04:00

Over the weekend, I had the privilege of leading a retreat for the Class of 2009. Liz Morriss, their sponsor, and I took the entire class of 21 students to a nearby "farm" owned by a friend. (Jon Birkey, intern for this semester, also helped me a ton with preperation and running the weekend away.) We spent the weekend challenging them in leadership; tackling the tough issues of coming transition and "leaving right; team building initiatives; and just spending time as a class. The weather was unseasonally cold, but everyone seemed to have a great time together.

Team building initiatives...Some "down time" filled with games and even horseback riding...

Please continue to pray with me that the seniors will have an awesome year together as they close out their SCCLC "career". Also pray with me for their spiritual health and their influence and leadership to the student body of SCCLC. We have such a dynamic and vibrant group! The weekend away was memorable and fun, but I also pray it was a challenge that each of them will grab on to the possibilities that God will enable in their lives!

Youth Group Fun...

2008-08-17T15:12:00.004-04:00

On Friday, we had our first official youth group with the high school students of SCCLC with 50 young people in attendance. They came over to my place for lunch (since they only had a half-day of classes) and then after eating, we headed to the bowling alley to hang out and try our best to get some decent scores.
On Monday, I had the senior class over and it was a great time of catching up after a summer apart and talking about the year to come.

Tomorrow, Monday the 18th, we'll have our first high school Bible study. Those will then continue each Monday evening. We'll be working through a series based on the books by Max Lucado, It's Not About Me. Tomorrow's session is Bumping Life Off Self-Center.

Finally, I've also begun meeting with several young men at different times for accountability. I think there will be about 5-7 different ones that I'll have time with on a weekly basis.

So, What are You Practicing?

2008-08-10T13:28:00.003-04:00

Our theme verse for this coming year is Colossians 3:17 - "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

So our theme with the youth this year will be "If Practice Makes Perfect, what are You Practicing?" Not saying that what we practice makes us who we are, but it reflects who we are and influences who we'll become.
Pray with us that God will continue to work in these young lives and that we will have the wisdom and discernment to lead them as God directs.

Reunions...

2008-08-10T13:07:00.006-04:00

During the last several weeks, I've had the privilege to get together with several of SCCLC's graduates of years past. It has been great to catch up with them and see how God continues to work in many of their lives.

Some of the class of 2005 that were in town

got together for dinner a few weeks ago.

Crazy Days...

2008-08-03T20:14:00.004-04:00

The last several weeks have been kind of crazy, but good. We were able to get a lot of work done on the house/youth center and it's almost ready for the new school year to begin. There's a little more painting and a few more cabinets to be installed, and it will be done.

David & Tim Zimmerman along with Jordan Newman were a great help in getting most of the painting done. What a relief to get that behind us!

I was able to get together with Cody Kargus, this year's camp speaker, and his team from the States. Several of our youth here have also been heavily involved in their group. They leave tomorrow, yet I believe God really blessed their time here.Friday night, I had his team over and invited our youth to join us as well. There were 60 plus here for supper. We had a great time of fellowship, laughter and getting to know one another. Two of his youth shared with the group and did a great job of challenging each of us.

This morning, I had the opportunity to preach at the English Church. The pastor has been in England for 2 months and asked me to help out. I shared about the RACE set before us and the challenge from Hebrews 12 to FIX Our Eyes on Jesus!Tomorrow, I'll be out at school meeting with the director and secondary principal. We'll be planning events and chapels and going over the schedule for the semester. I'm excited about the new year and know that God has some awesome things in store for us!

I'll also be meeting with the WGM Field Treasurer tomorrow to go over some procedures in the office. She is leaving Bolivia and several of us will be filling in as needed. Pray that we will be able to find a treasurer to come take on these responsibilities soon. Also, pray for each of us who will be taking on these duties to help in the mean time.

There is a Referendum vote in Bolivia next Sunday, August 10. Please pray for a peaceful day and an outcome that would really be for the best for the country and its people.

School starts on August 11, and so please continue to lift each of us in prayer as we get things in order. We are still short on staff, but know God will provide.

Let the Work Begin...

2008-07-07T16:42:00.004-04:00

Today, Tim Zimmerman and Jordan Newman (both WGM "missionary kids") started helping on the repainting of the house / youth center. They have a pretty substantial task ahead, so pray they stay the course.I emptied the kitchen to make way for construction workers coming in tomorrow to give the cabinets and counter tops some seriously needed attention.

I was in the office this morning and stopped by the school as well...so even during school "break" there's plenty to keep me busy.

Missionary Retreat 2008 ...

2008-07-05T10:01:00.003-04:00

We just returned from our annual missionary retreat for the WGM - Bolivia missionary group. Including the special speaker, other missionary guests and all the kids, there were 70 of us in attendance.
Pastor Dave Engbrecht of Nappannee Missionary Church spoke to us from John 14-17. The series on "Intimate Conversations" with Jesus to His disciples, was timely & pertinent to our group. God's Spirit was evident through the music ministry, preaching, and time "away" from the normal routine of life and ministry.Thank you for your prayers during this event. Our time together was refreshing as well as relaxing.

Graduate Visitor...

2008-06-22T14:24:00.006-04:00

David Lotz (SCCLC 2008) came over to my parents' from Indiana. He's in the States, preparing to study at Purdue University and currently looking for employment. Pray for David and the rest of our graduates as they seek to set up this new phase in their lives, many of whom are very far from their families and friends. David stayed with us for several days and it was an awesome time of fellowship and fun. For me, it was great another help in "ministry closure" for this school year. Although I pray our friendships continue to grow, serving David and his classmates as their youth director has finished.

As I return to Bolivia on Wednesday, pray with me that I will be able to prepare for the "new" year of ministry with another group of young people.

Family Vacation...

2008-06-14T11:37:00.003-04:00

While Steve and Nina were on their honeymoon; mom, dad, my niece Christa, my brother David and his family and I went on vacation together to Arkansas. We met my uncle and aunt there and had a great time together boating on the lake, playing golf (well, I played once...that was enough), and we relaxed a lot...

Steve & Nina's Wedding...

2008-06-07T17:20:00.006-04:00

Last night, we celebrated my brother's marraige to Nina. It was a beautiful & intimate time with family. Nina's a wonderful lady and I'm very happy for the both of them. Pray with me that their lives together will be blessed!

Brooke & Isaac's B-day party...

2008-06-06T11:34:00.010-04:00

Last night, we celebrated Brooke's 4th and Isaac's 2nd birthday with family and friends. It has been good to be with them this week as they grow up so fast! I'm looking forward to our time together in Arkansas next week...

The photo booth was a hit for the guests

and fun for me to get some pics with the kids!

Christa's Graduation...

2008-06-02T21:26:00.004-04:00

Yesterday I was able to celebrate, with the whole family, my niece's graduation from Worthington Christian School, in Ohio. It was a very meaningful service and fun time together afterwards.

Graduation Week is Done...

2008-05-30T14:11:00.005-04:00

Graduation and closing programs at SCCLC went very well. The week started off with Carlin & Hannah Epp arriving on Sunday, May 18. They are former students who came back to spend the week with friends and visit Santa Cruz one more time. Unfortunately, Carlin left his backpack, including his passport, in the back of a taxi that first day. So for the next few days, he and I worked on getting an emergency passport before their departure on May 25. It was an adventure, but through a series of miraculous events, we had a new passport in hand by Wednesday afternoon.

I preached at the English church for their youth service that Sunday morning and then joined the congregation for a cookout.

On Monday, we had our closing high school youth group with about 80 people. We enjoyed sharing lunch together, signing yearbooks, and I also shared a brief challenge about stress and how God wants to walk with us through tough times...On Tuesday, we did the same with about 40 junior high youth.
Wednesday, Carlin and I made a quick trip to La Paz to get his passport at the US Embassy.

On Thursday, we had our closing program with the secondary students and then I was in charge of the Graduation rehearsal and dinner that followed for the graduates, their parents and special guests.

I was also in charge of Friday's graduation, which thankfully went very smoothly.Although it was an incredibly busy week, it went well and I enjoyed the last few times of fellowship for this school year!

SCCLC 2008 in Review...Video Slide show...

2008-05-26T12:14:00.004-04:00

8 minute video slide show of the school year here at SCCLC...

Last Bible Study for this School Year...

2008-05-12T22:06:00.001-04:00

Tonight, there were 50 in attendance for our last Bible study of the semester and school year. We talked about allowing God's power to change our lives from the inside out. It was a great time of fellowship, study & prayer.

La Pajcha...

2008-05-12T09:27:00.002-04:00

Over the weekend, Tim, Paul, Kyle, David and Danny joined me on a trip to the mountains. We enjoyed the great outdoors camping near this waterfall, La Pajcha. After our day "roughing it", we returned to Samaipata, a mountain village, and stayed in a cabin for the second night...not so roughing it...
Danny (right), gave us questions to ponder on Saturday evening and then shared our Sunday devotional. We all shared about the questions and challenge that he gave us and our time together lasted about an hour and a half.
Tim and Kyle wrote me about planning this trip last year, but this was the first chance we had to get away. It was worth it and I believe they'll remember this time together for years to come.

Day with the 6th graders...

2008-05-12T09:22:00.002-04:00

Thursday, I had the opportunity to spend some time with the sixth graders of the Learning Center. Their teachers, principal, chaplain and I spent the day sharing, playing and just hanging out. It was a great way for me to get to know them before they get involved in the junior high activities next year. After breakfast at my place, I shared a little of my testimony and what the youth ministry was all about. We then took off to another home and did some team building activities, sports, etc. I don't think they minded the day off, and I enjoyed getting to know each of them by name...

Gratitude Attitude 101...

2008-04-30T13:36:00.006-04:00

I had the privilege to share again in chapel today. The message ... Gratitude Attitude 101 (adapted from a challenge shared with our mission board by our missionary pastor, Ron Koteskey, during his recent visit) ... was about living within an attitude of gratitude in all circumstances as Paul commands in I Thess. 5:16-18. We only have 2 more chapels as the school year is quickly coming to a close. Our school director, Steve Swope, will be sharing next Wednesday, and the seniors are in charge of chapel for our last time together on the 14th of May.

ACSI Re-accreditation visit...

2008-04-27T21:21:00.002-04:00

The staff and administration of the Learning Center have been going through a re-accreditation self-study this year to continue their accredited status with the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). This week is the culmination of the study with a review board visiting the school, going over the study, doing interviews and looking over the general "health" of the school.

It has been a very long process for those involved and we would appreciate your prayers this week as we finish the task.

Pic It...

2008-04-27T21:12:00.005-04:00

Friday, we had an excellent turnout for our Junior High Pic It (Picture Scavenger Hunt). We split into 5 groups and headed around the city for pics. The challenge was to capture as many pictures from a given list and get back to my place within a given time frame. All the teams did a great job and had an awesome time!

These guys took goose chasing very seriously...This team decided to take a break in a local park...

We don't have telephone booths, but "guard shacks" do work too...

Yes, a "Chinese Fire-drill". Don't worry, I drove after too...

Junior Senior Banquet...

2008-04-20T19:50:00.007-04:00

Our juniors host a banquet each year in honor of the seniors. This year's Junior/Senior was held on Saturday evening, April 19. It was a formal gathering with a wonderful program and great time of fellowship. The juniors asked me to help with part of their presentation and so I've been involved with video shooting and editing over the last several weeks. I then helped during the program with some of the "technical" logistics. They did an awesome job and everyone seemed to have a great time.

Here I am with senior & friend, David Lotz (heading to Purdue in Indiana)

Several of our freshman are aspiring to be Mariachi...
This is Roxy Jien...I'm really going to miss her wonderful smile and great attitude when she heads off to the University of Arkansas this Fall.The new Men-in-Black... David, Paul, Kyle & Tim...

Mission Meetings...

2008-04-20T19:41:00.006-04:00

One of my responsibilities on the field is participating on the Bolivia WGM board as "first member at-large". Don't really know what that means...but it incorporates my involvement in board meetings and then helping out at field events.

I attended a board meeting on Friday, before making it back out to the Learning Center to meet with a few students. After school, I helped to set up for our staff meeting to be held the next day. Then I went to the gym to cheer for our Varsity Boy's basketball team as they won their semi-final game. Finals will be held on Tuesday, May 22.

Twice a year, we have a day-long conference/meeting called "Mini-Staff" which includes all WGM-Bolivia missionaries. I helped the Assistant Director, Rick Lampen and his wife Lori, with some of the logistics for our April 19 time together. It was a great time together, including teaching from former missionary and current university professor, Ron Stansel. His sharing on cultural issues and the impact it has on ministry was enlightening.

Chapel: "God and..." or Just "God" ...

2008-04-09T14:45:00.006-04:00

That was today's theme for chapel. John 15:1-8 talks of Christ being the Vine and we are the branches. Josh, a senior, is representing the vine, while seventh graders, Caleb and Felipe are the branches. Here, the girls are holding cups which represent the fruit that comes out of our lives after the Lord fills...

The overall theme centered on making God our source of joy, wholeness & fulfillment with all other things being directed through Him, rather than puting them equal to God. It seemed to be a good chapel and, as always, I enjoyed sharing the challenge!

PE Teacher???...

2008-03-31T13:28:00.003-04:00

Our PE teacher at the Learning Center is helping out as a sponsor on the senior trip. While she's away, I was asked to help out with a few of the classes. Today, I worked with the 4th graders and tomorrow, I'll be leading the 3rd graders in PE. It was fun to work with the younger kids and they seemed to have a great time. We did our stretching and running and then practice our Frisbee skills... I'm also helping with the high school "weights and conditioning" classes the rest of the week... Just never know what's on the agenda...

Senior Trip...

2008-03-31T09:35:00.002-04:00

The seniors are away this week on their senior trip. They stayed together in a local hotel last night and are headed to Tarija in southern Bolivia this afternoon. Please pray with me that they would not only have a safe trip, but that it will be a great time together as they are approaching their graduation in less than 2 months.

Hanging out on Friday night...

2008-03-31T09:31:00.003-04:00

One of our sophomores, Danny Canaviri, wanted to invite the Freshman guys out for an evening to hang out. What an awesome idea. After their track meet on Friday, Danny and 10 of the ninth graders came over for pizza. Then we went carting before returning to play video games and hang out for a while. They seemed to really have a great time and I enjoyed being a part of their fellowship and fun together. I believe God really uses these times to build friendships and trust for future ministry and discipleship... What a blessing to have a student take an interest in his younger peers!

Prayer Letter in the Mail...

2008-03-24T14:12:00.004-04:00

Well, it's almost in the mail. Hopefully by tomorrow.

Life continues to keep me busy. We've had great Bible studies and follow up times with the youth since our camps last month. God has been working in some young lives and it's been fun to watch.

Accountability times with the young men I'm meeting with have been going well. I believe that God is using these times to really challenge them in their walk with Him.

Easter break from school was nice and I've tried to use the time to spend with some of the youth and other missionary families. It was a great time of rest, but also a great time to sharing and challenging others. God also used the time to challenge me through Max Lucado's book, Six Hours One Friday. It was a good reminder during the Holy Week celebration.

SCCLC Camps 2008 Slideshow...

2008-02-28T10:03:00.003-04:00

This is a low quality copy of our slideshow from the 2 camps...any bigger would be hard to post, but it should give you an idea of our camp activities, etc.

In yesterday's chapel, many students shared about camp. We had to postpone the speaker to another week, since the sharing took the entire chapel hour.

Next Tuesday, students are starting a bi-weekly, student led prayer meeting / accountability time in the mornings before class... That's just one of the cool results from camps. Another cool result has been the unity within the student body. Even one of the junior high students shared today how she has noticed a huge difference between the 7th and 8th graders! Pretty exciting stuff...

High School Camp group pic...

2008-02-25T08:12:00.002-04:00

With 76 campers and the staff, we were 94 total...the food was excellent and the fellowship awesome!

High School Camp was AWESOME!!!

2008-02-25T07:51:00.008-04:00

Looking off into the distance....Study group led by Anne Marie, one of our seniors...
Time of encouragement and reconciliation after Thursday's evening "service"...
Esteban, excited as usual...just downed a banana in 0.4 seconds...
We had an excellent high school camp. Cody continued to share from God's heart and really touched the lives of all in attendance. We were all challenged spiritually to live an Authentic Worship Experience both inside and out...not just at camp, but all the time. Many made stronger commitments to support and encourage one another daily as well as take their personal relationship with the Lord more seriously and make it more intentional.

Thank you so much for your prayers...!!!

JH Camp Group Pic....

2008-02-25T07:48:00.004-04:00

Here's the group from junior high camp. All 42 students were in attendance and had a great time. God really worked through Cody Kargus, our special speaker. Thanks for your prayers as we follow up back in the "normal" routine .

Junior High Camp 2008 went very well...

2008-02-17T14:40:00.006-04:00

Junior High Camp went very well. We left school on Wed, Feb 13 and returned Friday afternoon. All 42 junior high students attended and seemed to really enjoy the time away. Cody Kargus' sharing on the theme of LOVE really challenged us all.

I had gotten pretty sick on the first afternoon and spent most of my time directing the camp...well, watching camp...from a chair. It was so awesome to see others step and take the lead. I was to direct activities, but I passed those responsibilities on to one of our 11th graders who had come to assist me. God used him to keep it moving and he did an awesome job.

I'm trying to rest a lot this weekend and get ready for another week of camp with the high school students. There will be 76 campers attending as Cody shares his challenges on Worship and living Inside-Out. Thanks for all your prayers.

Bible Studies are up and running...

2008-01-30T08:23:00.001-04:00

Junior High Bible study met yesterday. Seventeen kids joined us for this time of fun and learning. We talked about influence, what we give and what we receive. They seemed to have a great time.Our regular Monday evening Bible study has been meeting for 3 weeks. We've had an average of just over 30 kids each week.

COMING SOON! - Camps 2008

2008-01-24T09:28:00.001-04:00

Our junior high and high school camps are just around the corner. Please pray for those involved. I'll be coordinating the events with some 17 staff helping and participating to make each of them take place. Pray for Cody Kargus of Arrowhead Bible Camp ministries in Wisconsin, as he brings our challenges. Also pray that the kids, as well as all of us involved, will be ready for what the Lord may have in store! Thank you!

Fill up that ARK!!!

2008-01-22T18:12:00.001-04:00

As the water rises, it seems the ark would come in handy! Please pray that the rain would cease and the waters subside. It's been coming down steadily for several days and there's no where else for the water to go. Mariela (an 8th grader) and I are wading through between buildings...the library in the background is completely surrounded by its own "moat".

First Week at School and with Youth Activities went Well!

2008-01-21T15:18:00.000-04:00

Junior High Out - 29 youth joined us after school as we went to an arcade and out for ice cream. it was a great time to renew some friendships and to meet the "new" (to me that is...) 7th graders.
Just 2 hours after the Junior High Out, about 60 high schoolers joined us at the house for a Mexican food/theme night. Several came in their panchos and sombreros...one young man even had his machete in hand???

It was a great time of fellowship and I really enjoyed reacquainting myself with the youth. They're a great bunch and I'm privileged to be back with them.

About 40 came to the Monday night Bible study and it also went well, as did my time in chapel on Wednesday. I was able to share a challenge to Administer Grace from I Peter 4. God's been challenging me along those lines, so it was cool to be able to share that with the youth.

I've already had several opportunities to share some of the youth and even counsel a few others. Please pray as I begin a few accountability sessions, that God will guide us in our discussions and encouragement to each other.

Blessings!

Back Online and in Bolivia...

2008-01-14T16:28:00.000-04:00

Well, I'm back home in Bolivia. I haven't had internet until this afternoon. I have many e-mails to process and much to do, but I'm back safe-and-sound.
Christmas and New Years went really well with the family and I had an uneventful, but long trip back down. After a few days, the lost sleep was found.
School started up today and I have my first Bible Study tonight with the high school students. I'm a little anxious, but sure it will go well. Tomorrow, I have a board meeting to attend, I speak in chapel and begin all that involvement on Wednesday. On Friday, we have our opening events for the junior high at 3 and then the high school at 7...so it'll be a busy week.
It's exciting to be back. I'm a little overwhelmed by all that has to happen, but it's gonna happen, so I'm just holding on for the ride.
Will be able to write more frequently since I'm online...so I'll keep you posted...Mike

Finishing up in Kansas...

2007-12-18T22:57:00.001-04:00

After my Sunday morning service at the Cornerstone Fellowship church in Wichita, KS, I stopped in to visit Birdella Findley. Birdella's son, Paul, and I grew up together and tried to keep our parents on their toes. We enjoyed the time of reminiscing and catching up.

Surprise!!!

2007-12-14T13:40:00.001-04:00

with Hannah & Carlin Epp in their home in Henderson, Nebraska...Hannah is a senior and Carlin a sophomore. It was a great visit!

Kansas??? Okay, I'm on my way. First I had to make a stop in Henderson, Nebraska to visit former students, Hannah and Carlin Epp. Hannah and her parents wanted to keep it a secret from Carlin, so when he answered the door and I asked for directions, he yelped...it was a surprise. We had a great time catching up last night and tonight I'll be at their basketball games to cheer them on. Tomorrow, I'll head to Wichita to share with a youth group and church, then I'll be back in Ohio on Monday. Nap time!!!

Back to Nashville...ya'll...Dec 9-12

2007-12-14T13:36:00.000-04:00

I went back to Nashville with my family to visit the Grand Ole Opry and hang out at the Opryland Resort. We met my uncle and aunt from Memphis there and enjoyed the time away. We saw Mark Lowry on Monday evening and spent the rest of the time hanging out, relaxing, shopping, eating and even sleeping a little. We got back on Wednesday night in time for me to do laundry and pack up for my last HMA trip...Kansas, here I come...

Thanksgiving with some of the Grads from Santa Cruz...

2007-11-28T16:52:00.000-04:00

Here are 13 of the 14 SCCLC graduates that attended our Thanksgiving get-together last week here in Ohio. My family graciously shared this time with a few of the young people I've worked with over the years. They came in from the west coast, east coast and many places in between. Even though they hadn't seen each other in quite some time, it was as if they had never been apart.

Getting to know the family...

2007-11-28T16:51:00.001-04:00

Meet Isaac. He's my 1-year old nephew. I met him back in June when I arrived back in the States. It has been fun to get to know him and hopefully get him to say my name before I leave in January. He's getting close! Well, he basically just said it...just a little grunty.