09/25/07
I would like to solicit your prayers as Kipp Campbell & I begin to make plans on a return to Mariupol, Ukraine. This will be my third visit to Mariupol, having made previous trips in 2003 & 2004. The work in Mariupol begin in August, 2002 by the work of Carl McMurray, Shannon Shaffer, and Joshua Creel. The church remains very small (some four-five souls), but these Christians seem to be dedicated and sincere in their desire to grow in Christ.
OUR MISSION:
Since the Christians in Mariupol do not have a regular evangelist, we would like to return to encourage them. While there, Kipp & I plan to utilize our time teaching them to become rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith. While there, we should be able to study with these Christians on a daily basis in the late afternoon and early evening. Many of them are good about rearranging their day to be present for these studies. I have found the dedication of these Christians to be impressive. On one of our previous trips, we met for fourteen-fifteen nights in a row studying, praying, and singing together. We expect that will be the same for us this time.
We also plan to follow up on some local contacts through our translator. The brethren do a good job bringing friends and relatives to the studies, so there is potential to expose new prospects with the gospel everyday we are in Mariupol!
WILL YOU PRAY FOR THE SUCCESS OF OUR TRIP?
These brethren have open and tender hearts and desire to become more like the Savior. Their need for spiritual teaching is great. Please check back here often for details on our trip.