The Stirring Missions

Barber Family Update

2011-03-29T17:39:00.001-07:00

I love that we have a God that is so close to us that we can feel him move. Whether its a huge break through or something small but reassuring. We have a God that moves. He moves here in America and he moves overseas. In homes that are broken, in homes that are whole, in churches that are overflowing and in one on ones in coffee shops. When God moves there is always a mark that is left. Sometimes he changes lives, communities, or countries, and sometimes he changes an individual heart. Where ever he moves he leaves an impression.
I believe in this God that moves. That is why my family and I have stopped the lives we knew to relentlessly pursue and serve this God that moves. We want to be a part of the lives he is touching, at home, overseas, at McDonalds, the grocery store, and our backyard. We want to be on call 24-7.
We're starting off here in YWAM Los Angeles, serving on the base and in local ministries. In a few weeks we'll spend a short time in Mexico, and then we'll be pouring into the lives of teens and college age students as they participate in short discipleship schools this summer. We want to see God move in the lives around us. We want to see people discover who they are, who God is, and who they are in Christ, and then equip them to go into the nations and into their communities and impact the world with what they have learned. This is what we are devoted to. This is what we are called to, Discipling, loving, and spreading the word and love of God.
If you want to be a part of what we are doing. If you want to partner with us please contact us. We are never too busy to talk to you! We want to know that we have people standing with us in prayer and in support. We would love to share more with you about what our family is doing, and how you can be involved.
Blessings,
Robert, Jenny, and Lily Barber
Youth With A Mission Los Angeles
11141 Osborne St. Lakeview Terrace, Ca 91342
robertandjennybarber@yahoo.com
(559) 760-5160

Shannon Envisions Gabon

2011-03-28T17:45:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to send Shannon Lundberg to Gabon for 6 weeks. Read more in her prayer letter below!

But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord GOD,
That I may declare all Your works. -Psalm 73:28

Gabon, Africa
March 29th- May 12th 2011 (44 days)

●Over 20 million children have been orphaned by AIDS worldwide.
●88% of people living with HIV, and 92% of AIDS deaths have been in Africa.
●Gabon has a population of more than 1.5 million with a high mortality rate due to HIV/AIDS.
As I leave for Africa, I'm embarking on a mission very dear to my heart; reaching out to the children all across the world. I'd love to take a moment and share a little bit about what I'll be doing with you, my Stirring family.
This is my first mission trip and to me it is so much more than just 6 ½ weeks of serving somewhere. This is what I've been called to do. This is the dream that God has invited me into and made my heart burn for! I feel like I’ve been waiting to go for forever but that’s because ever since God’s given me these dreams I've wanted to be living them. This is what I was created to live and fight for! Going to Africa on a short term mission trip may not seem that big, but for six weeks it’s everything to me. For now it’s me starting my journey and going, and it’s just the beginning of something big. Libreville, Gabon
I'm going to Libreville which is the capital of Gabon, a republic located in on the western coast of Africa. I've had the privilege of serving with the Envision of the Christian Missionary Alliance (CMA). I'll be living on the Envision base with a group of the CMA's missionaries. Each day I'll be traveling to the near by House of Hope (run by Envision) for orphaned and abandoned children. This is where I plan to spend most of my time, with these kids. I'll be teaching them, playing with them, taking them places, but most important just loving them. This really is a chance for me to do what God has called me to do, taking care of and loving His little children. And while today it may only be for six weeks, tomorrow it may be for the rest of my life.
I am really looking forward to what the Lord has planned and I need your prayers to help me fully carry out this mission and blessing that I have been given. You can play a vital part in my ministry through your prayer support. I know God is at work in Africa and I just want to be able to take part in what He is doing. I'm expecting to see the impossible as well as witnessing those small moments where God is opening eyes and hearts towards Him. And I really am just praying that this trip would be full of God and that He would bless me with wisdom, understanding, strength, compassion, boldness, faith, and love!
If you would like to write, I’d enjoy hearing from you. If you’d like to contribute towards my expenses, make the check payable to Shannon Lundberg and send to my home address below.
1891 College View Dr.
Redding CA, 96003

I'll be keeping my blog updated while I'm gone, feel free to check it out!

http://adaughtersheart14.blogspot.com/

This is my address for my time in Africa. I'd love to hear from you!

BP 49 Lembamba
Gabon
Africa

I’m trusting that by God’s grace and your prayers, my time and service will be profitable for His glory.
With Love,
Shannon Lundberg

The Bakers Dozen

2011-02-20T20:59:00.000-08:00

Sadly our time at Refilwe is coming to an end. We have had so many great memories here and the people have literally become family.
A few weeks ago, Piet and I met with the leaders of a ministry called Africa Ablaze. Piet grew up under this ministry when he was a lot younger. He attended the youth group and became a believer under the care of Africa Ablaze. This ministry runs weekend and weeklong camps for youth during the school holidays. They also go into schools and minister during morning assembly, plant churches in the rural farm areas, as well as host a career and life skills camp for youth who are a bit older.
I was taken a bit off guard when the Pastors offered us a position right on the spot. Our area of expertise would be working with youth who have just finished high school and need leadership skills, spiritual and job training. Africa Ablaze has partnerships with a few big companies that will pay for this gap year program and allow the students to do job shadowing. At the end of the year, the students will be able to come on staff at these businesses.
Piet and I went away from the meeting feeling different. We couldn’t imagine walking away from a program that we’ve worked so hard at building up. We’ve built strong relationships with these youth and how can we just leave with no one to follow behind? But, also, inside we felt a sense of peace. This program had such similarities, it was almost exactly what we were trying to achieve: to make the youth of this generation sustainable both spiritually and physically.
After praying about it long and hard, we decided that it was where God was definitely leading us for this point in our walk with him. After we made the decision, we learned that we would also be acquiring something from the ministry: free housing and electricity, food support from a local grocery store, a small cell phone and fuel stipend, as well as a small cash stipend. God is really taking care of us as we move forward in His perfect will.
This past weekend we moved into our new cottage (which is personally my 4th house in a year!!) and made it our own. We are excited about this new chapter in life. Please pray for us in our journey and email us direct if you want to hear more!
Jesus, lead on, we will follow.
The Bakers

Wedding Bells in South Africa

2011-01-06T16:41:00.000-08:00

Leah and Piet were married on December 29th!

Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Bakers! We are so excited to welcome Piet as one of our new Stirring Missionaries

Barbers in Thailand

2010-12-19T20:38:00.001-08:00

Our first two weeks in Thailand have been great. We spent the first couple pf days in Bangkok in an orientation into Thai culture. We learned about Buddhism and also how to find food. We went on a temple tour to get an even better idea of the influence of Buddhism in Thailand. While on the bus on our way back to YWAM Bangkok, from the Temple tour, the bus was beeping. We did not think anything of it, then the bus stopped and the driver ran past us and out the door and down into the Jungle. We were really confused, and then about two minutes later he returned with bottles full of river water that he then dumped on the overheating engine of the bus. That was when we realized that we were not in America anymore. We had to stop several more times for water for the bus but these times not were quite as funny. We did make it back alive and with a great story so we are grateful for that. We then got on another bus this time for 12 hours and traveled to Chiang Rai thailand. Chiang Rai is 40 minutes from the border of Burma. We are just down the street from Mae Fa Luang university and are spending most of our time working with a local university student ministry. We went camping in the Jungle and also put on a Christmas party for the university students. A young lady here gave her life to Christ at the Christmas party which completely made the whole trip. Yesterday we worked at Home of the Open Heart. This is an orphanage for children affected by AIDS. These kids were amazing and they loved to play. We played soccer and tag with them for 2 hours. We are having a great time here in Thailand and are making an impact for Christ. Please continue to pray for us that we will be bold, and for the health of our family and team.

P.S Lily is a hit. She has a ministry of her own here.

Much love,
The Barbers

The Lains Adoption from Ethiopia

2010-11-23T07:23:00.000-08:00

We are very thankful this Thanksgiving season as we are in the process of adopting a beautiful 5 year old little girl from Ethiopia. After receiving approval from immigration we were able to review her information. The night before, we were praying about her and our adoption when Eli asked us to read the story of Deborah in his children's bible. The following morning we got her picture and found out that her name is Dibora which is the Ethiopian version of Deborah! (Her full name will be Acacia Dibora Lain). We are hoping to travel as early as February! The sooner the better!!!

We have been diligently writing grants for this adoption. The adoption will cost around 30,000 dollars total. We have paid 15,000 thus far from savings and we are believing that by His grace He will provide an additional 15,000 dollars through grants and donations from friends and family to be able to bring her home.

If you would like to join us in caring for orphans and help us bring our daughter home, http://www.thelains.blogspot.com now have a Donate Button on our blog page, www.thelains.blogspot.com, that you can use to make a donation via Paypal.

We are VERY thankful for all of you !!! We appreciate your prayers for patience, grace, perseverance, and provision as we wait! We are so thankful for the calling of God on our lives to care for orphans and to bring the good news of the Kingdom with us wherever we go...even to the ends of the earth in Mongolia! We really couldn't do it without you holding us up! We love you all and thank you for your sacrifices of prayer and financial support for His work in our lives overflowing onto others!

May we all praise Him on Thanksgiving day and everyday for the wonderful things He has done. Our King is enthroned on our praises! Thank Him for this awesome Holiday season!

Much love,
Larry and Krista Lain

Lains Prayer request

2010-11-01T21:52:00.000-07:00

PRAISE THE LORD WITH US!!!
1. We are moved in to our new rental home with 2 rooms and a kitchen.
2. Though it is below freezing outside most everyday, we are toasty warm (wood-stove and radiator system with hot water heated by the stove)!!!
3. Our home is attached to a very small store plus an extra room...which will be converted into a Chapel/office and Fitness room at the end of the week when the occupants move out. How great of God to give us a house with a Chapel and Fitness room...a dream come true!!!
4. Larry's fitness project is under-way! A few guys have been working out in one of our bedrooms until the fitness room is available.
5. Krista found a potential language teacher to meet with a couple times a week. (Been without a teacher for 2 weeks)
6. Averi and Eli are really enjoying school! Averi started a new dance class! Praise Him for His Provision and His love for the little children!
7. God is meeting with us as we study His KINGDOM and are crying out for His Kingdom to Come in Mongolia as in Heaven!!!

PRAY FOR THE LAINS NOVEMBER 2010
1. Pray for renewal and restoration of our First Love...More of Him and Practicing His Presence!!!
2. Pray that we find new solid language helpers/teachers this month.
3. Pray for Larry's fitness project. That many men will be interested and drawn into community!
4. Pray for Krista as she begins teaching Kindergarten for a new student as well as continues teaching Science. Music, Art etc. in the afternoons. Also pray for her as she teaches English to a few Mongolian children.
5. Pray for us as we seek deeper relationships and understanding as we continue building our new Team.
6. Pray for Opportunities to meet and practice speaking with Kazaks in our community.
7. Pray for His Kingdom to Come and His Power to be demonstrated!

--
Larry J. Lain
larry.krista@gmail.com

The Barbers are going to Thailand

2010-10-09T21:09:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends!
Just an sending you all an update! We have been in Montana for a few weeks. It has been awesome. We are learning so much about the character and grace of God. We have been growing so much.
We are also getting ready for our outreach. We will be leaving for Thailand in early December and doing several different ministries there. No plans have been set in stone yet, but we will most likely be working with students, refugees, and in orphanages.
We were informed a couple days ago that of the $4000 we still owe, we need to have $2000 by the 18th of this month. We know that is less than two weeks, but we have no doubt that God is bigger than money, and can make it happen. both the staff and our family really feel that God has called us to Thailand, and are so excited to serve his people there. We ask that you would keep us in your prayers, and consider supporting us financially. It has been a huge step of faith for us to drop everything, and follow God's call for our family to do missions, but we fully believe that he wants to use our family in this ministry, and has big plans that we are excited to be apart of.
If you are interested in supporting our family, there are a few ways you can do so, I will list them below. We really would like you to pray about this and ask how God would have you partner with us in our ministry. If it is through prayer, we are very thankful, and would love to get in touch with you and tell you how you can be praying for our family.
Ways to give:
1. You can send money directly into our missions account online, ad completely free, by visiting: http://sendthebarberstoywam.chipin.com/missions-to-thailand

2. Send check payable to "YWAM" at:
Robert and Jenny Barber (DTS)
501 Blacktail Rd.
Lakeside, MT 59922

3. Send check through our church in Redding with the account #503 in the memo at:
The Stirring
1348 Market St. #201
Redding, Ca 96001

4. Give checks with a note attached to Rick Lowrey or Sue Davis at Sierra Pines Church.

We thank you all for your prayers and support!
Robert, Jenny, and Lily Barber

"Brianne Poppins"

2010-08-29T13:16:00.000-07:00

Brianne is preparing to travel with the Barbers to Montana to serve as Lily Barber's nanny for 3 of the families 5 month YWAM DTS. As you can see Bri has an amazing love for children and she is excited to explore her opportunities in serving the Lord in missions. Bri needs to raise about $400 more and needs more prayer support as well. If you would like to partner with Bri please comment on this blog or write to missions@thestirring.org . Join us at Chevy's on September 12th 12-4. 25% of your bill will support the Barber's and Bri. See you there!

Stirring Missions Chevy's Fundraiser

2010-08-22T15:30:00.000-07:00

Print and bring this flyer with you to Chevy's September 12th 12pm-4pm
We will also be sending off the Barbers and their Nanny, Brianne Harris to YWAM Montana that afternoon. Come and enjoy a Stirring family lunch at Chevy's!!

CAR WASH for the Barbers Abroad

2010-07-28T21:55:00.000-07:00

Saturday July 31st · 10:00am - 4:00pm
DAIRY QUEEN CHURN CREEK ROAD

The Stirring will be raising money to send the Barbers out as a missionary family. They will be serving with YWAM Montana and receiving their training there before going overseas for an outreach.

Tell your friends! We will be washing cars July 31st from 10am-4pm

We need help washing cars. Please let us know if you can help wash cars for a few hours.

Prayer Requests for the Lains

2010-07-28T19:23:00.001-07:00

Wonderful Friends and Family,
Thanks for your prayers as we get ready for a big month of transitions ahead!!! Thank you in advance for spending extra time praying this month since we know there is lot to pray about! We love you guys! We really cannot do any of this without your support and prayers! Be on the look out for a you-tube video update and ways you can support us prayerfully and financially next week!

Joining with you in carrying His Kingdom with us wherever we go!
Larry and Krista Lain
Averiana and Eli

PRAY FOR THE LAINS AUGUST 2010
1. Only 3 weeks to go (out of 8) of Kazakh Language Study at Indiana University
(5 days a week/8 hours a day-4 hours in class and 4 hours of homework each day)
Pray for perseverance and that we would finish well
Pray for retention of learning a lot of information in a short time (over 1000 words and LOTS of grammatical structures to memorize!)
Pray for great bonding time for our children with grandparents while we are away
Pray for great memorable weekends with our kids and our families
2. Pray for our MOVE back to Mongolia!
Pray for wisdom to know what we need to bring back as we pack
Pray for our flight on Sunday, August 15 from Chicago to San Fran
Pray for our flight on Monday, August 16 from San Fran to Mongolia
Pray for peace, patience, along with excitement and joy as we reunite with friends
Pray for a great Field Forum with all our teammates on August 20-25.
3. Pray for PREPARATION as we get ready to move to Western Mongolia September 1st!
Pray again for wisdom as we pack up our stuff from Darhan to Hovd (30-40 hour trip)
Pray as we find a way to transport all our belongings
Pray that we would be able to find an apartment quickly and easily
Pray that we would be connected with a GREAT host family to set up a ger in their yard...for life-long friendships to develop
4. Pray for our ADOPTION paperwork to be processed quickly and smoothly
Praise the Lord! All the paperwork is in the mail!!!
Pray that they receive all the right paperwork that it is filled out correctly, that it reaches the right destinations and that it is processed quickly
Pray that we are given a fingerprinting appointment before we leave for Mongolia (very important)
Pray that God will prepare our hearts, minds, and souls for our new child(ren)
*Pray for PATIENCE as we wait!
*We have about 2-3 months to wait until we get APPROVED (GOD WILLING...Please pray for God's will for APPROVAL of one or two children!!!)
Then we will most likely have about 6-12 months to wait until we receive our child(ren)...Potentially we could bring them home next summer!

Thanks so much for joining with us and praying for us as we follow the Lord! May you be blessed as you follow Him as well! We love you guys!

Back from Tanzania... A new chapter

2010-07-13T17:22:00.000-07:00

Check out Tessa's amazing pictures and update about her time in Tanzania.
http://tessaratner.blogspot.com/2010/07/back-from-tanzania-new-chapter.html

Amsterdam Team returns to Redding!

2010-07-01T19:20:00.000-07:00

http://amsterdamteam2010.blogspot.com/2010/06/hello-california.html

Sarah Arrives in Jordan!

2010-06-06T16:18:00.000-07:00

Sarah arrived in Jordan safely. Check out her blog or write her a letter!
Now the moment you've all been waiting for!!!
My mailing address:
Sarah Schepens
PO Box 815354
Amman, Jordan 11180

I will appreciate anything you wish to send...I love letters and packages!!:) But please know that most of your stuff will probably be read and searched--there's nothing that should cause a huge problem--just know that nothing is super confidential around here. Also, please don't send huge boxes..those will probably get stuck in customs in Aqaba. But smaller boxes and big envelopes are fine.

Thank you all for your prayers and for your support!!! I appreciate knowing I have so many people who support me and are praying for me daily. Thank you!

Continually trusting Him,
Sarah

Nanny needed for Lillian

2010-06-06T16:13:00.000-07:00

The Barbers need a mission’s nanny
YWAM Montana requires that we have a nanny for the first three months of the training phase. This nanny would not be required to go on outreach with us. Lillian will be four months when we leave in September and we will need a nanny for three months. We are looking for someone who is responsible, has experience with kids, loves God, and has a great outlook on life. This would be an awesome experience, because the nanny will still get to sit in on some lectures by and hear some really gifted speakers. The fees for room and board are only $675. It would be great if our nanny was able to raise this support before we go. If you or someone you know is interested or you have more questions please let us know by emailing missions@thestirring.org!

I'm engaged!!

2010-05-15T22:55:00.000-07:00

If you have facebook, you may have already read the story of how I got engaged. If not, enjoy!

Piet came down to Port Elizabeth on Friday April 23 to help me close up my time there and help me move to Johannesburg. We had lots of things planned for that week, one of which was a whole day in Jeffreys Bay. Jeffreys Bay is such a special place to us because it was there where we met.

We arrived early April 27 (Tuesday) in Jeffreys Bay and went straight for horseback riding. It was a group of 5 or 6 plus two tour guides. We rode through the hills and the grass for the first half of the ride and it was beautiful! The whole time we kept trying to get the horses to walk side by side, but they were so stubborn! My horse didn't want to stop moving, and Piet's horse didn't want to go. So for pretty much the entire time we were riding about 15 meters apart. I had to turn around to look at Piet. And whenever I would turn around, he had such a serious look on his face. He said he was enjoying everything, but was looking so serious! Little did I know, he was looking so serious because he was trying to figure out how to get the ring out of his pocket!

The second half of the horseback ride is on the beach, and the horses literally walk through the water. So we crossed through the sand dunes and arrived at the beach. It was gorgeous and so romantic! By this time, we were way behind the entire group. It was nice because we were just enjoying it together. The only thing was that the tour guide kept staying just in front of us. I kept wondering why he wouldn't just leave us to be by ourselves.

Eventually, the tour guide asked if he could take some pictures of us. Again, the horses were very stubborn so it took a while for us to get side by side. But the tour guide jumped off his horse to help even us out. We took lots of pictures and suddenly Piet pulled a ring box from his pocket. He asked if I wanted to marry him and showed me the ring! I said "YES!" and couldn't stop smiling! I was so excited and happy! The horses walked side by side for a while and we just enjoyed the moment hand in hand. It was perfect! I wanted to go faster and feel the wind in my hair, so we made the horses run for a bit. I wanted to shout, "I'M ENGAGED!!!" but I resisted. :)

We took so long, that by the time we got back to the stables, everyone else had already dismantled and even gone home!

That night, we had a "surprise" engagement party. It wasn't actually a surprise because I figured it out. I knew Piet was scheming something with my friend Jody, and it made sense that it would be a surprise party. So, we arrived at Jody's house later that night and all the people that I love most (in Port Elizabeth) were waiting for us. It was wonderful!

I can't believe I'm marrying the man of my dreams and ministry partner. I couldn't be more satisfied!

-Leah Rush

Come meet Leah on May 23rd Lunch at Bechelli YAKS @12 noon. $5 lunch available.

Germany -Update

2010-05-15T22:52:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy few weeks as our team has been preparing for Germany, and we just want to thank you for the support you have given us! Whether it has been helping with fundraisers, attending the events, or even giving us bottles and cans to recycle, we couldn't have gotten to this stage in our trip without you!

With that said, we have a couple things that we would like to share with you all. First, our team has shrunk from three people to only two. Jenni and I (Megan) will be going to Germany, while Travis will be fulfilling his internship in Washington state for two months. While we are disappointed that things didn't work as planned, we are excited to see what God will be doing in both Germany and Washington during the summer.

Another thing we want to announce, is that Jenni and I are in the process of receiving airfare! This is a huge step, and makes Germany an even bigger reality for us. We will be leaving on May 23, and coming back on July 24. During our trip we will be sending all updates through e-mail, this blog, and our facebooke group as well (http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=315740331803).

So, with all the good, and difficult, things that we have been experiencing, we ask that you continue to pray for us! We still are in need of some money, so please pray for funds (if you want to give, you can do so by logging onto simpsonu.edu/missions and clicking on the Germany Team link). Also, prayer for safety, unity, and being able to get through cultural conflicts would be appreciated.

Thanks again for your support and prayers! There is no way that we could have done this without you guys, and we will keep you updated on our trip as well. If you like to receive updates via e-mail please e-mail me at megan.fitzgerald@ug.simpsonu.edu. Thanks!

Blessings,

Megan Fitzgerald

Lillian Hope Lindsay Barber

2010-05-05T21:24:00.000-07:00

On May 4th we welcomed our newest Stirring Missionary into the world!
Jenny and Robert Barber were excited to welcome Lillian with perfect timing to celebrate Mother's day and children dedications this month. The Barbers are raising support for their September departure to their 5 month DTS with YWAM Montana. For more information about the Barbers check out their Blog: www.thebarbers3.blogspot.com

4 days and 20 hours until take off!

2010-05-05T21:21:00.000-07:00

I officially leave on Monday the 10th! I am so beyond excited. Thank you all for your support! It has been such an incredible blessing to see all of my friends and family come up behind me to help in this!

I will have access to the internet over there, so I will try to keep you all updated by posting on this page.

I still need about $300 more dollars! Please if you haven't contributed yet, and you were hoping to, please do so as soon as possible! It would be greatly appreciated!

Please be praying for me as I embark on this journey. :)

Blessings to you all,
Tessa

Costa Rica Team

2010-05-01T17:29:00.000-07:00

We will be working along with the Christian Surfers Costa Rica organization. Our mission will be to reach surfers with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, connect them to local churches so that they can then go back into their communities and beyond to reach other surfers. Also, we will be working with local after school programs and do some beach cleanup with local kids. So basically, our mission will be to spread the Costa Rican motto “Pura Vida”, which means Pure Life. Living purely and positively and making the best of every moment. Please consider supporting our team through prayer as we are prepare for this incredible opportunity! We will be in Costa Rica from July 25th-August 14th.

*Team Leaders: Marcella Melloni and Megan Furze Team Members: Danielle Caito, Melissa Melloni, and Elaina Unpingco

Germany

2010-05-01T17:12:00.001-07:00

Let me introduce myself. My name is Megan Fitzgerald, and I am senior at Simpson University. I am majoring in General Ministries with a minor in Bible and Theology. General Ministries is a program for students who have a passion for ministry, but are not sure where God is calling them. My major requires an internship, and this summer I will be fulfilling this requirement in Germany!

From May 23rd to July 24th I, with two Simpson students (Jenni Lawler and Travis Gonzales), will be working with Youth for Christ to minister to the youth of Germany. Youth for Christ (YFC) is a non-profit organization in which they work to provide teens with the opportunity to make informed decisions to become a follower of Christ. We will be teaming up with another team from South Africa to be apart of YFC’s vision.

What many people don’t realize is that Germany is a spiritually dry nation, and they are not open to Christ as one would hope. Not only is Germany a spiritually dry nation, but also they are experiencing a rapid growth of Muslim conversions. Our ministry will consist of assisting with the South African team and sharing our testimonies with the youth. One of our goals is to help influence teens to become Christian leaders in the country.

We are ecstatic about the opportunity God has provided us! However, we cannot do this without your help and support. We need to raise about $7000 in the next two weeks in order to make this trip possible. That $7000 includes our airfare and our living expenses for while we are in Germany. If you can support us please make your donation through: https://app.etapestry.com/fundraiser/SimpsonU/Germany2010/ . We understand that during this time, finances are tight, and if you are unable to support, we still need lots of prayer. Here are some things that you can pray for:

• That we are able to raise our money in time (we need everything pledged by May 15).
• That as a team, we are able to continue to build our relationships with each other as well as with the South African team.
• That we adjust to culture shock, as we will be living with the South African team and be in Germany at the same time.
• For the people we will be ministering to. That they will be responsive to what we have to say.
• Protection and safety

If you have any questions, please feel free to e-mail me at megan.fitzgerald@simpsonu.edu and I would love to answer them!

Blessings,

Megan Fitzgerald and the Germany Team

Amsterdam

2010-04-22T23:00:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone we are the Amsterdam Team! We are a team of six girls, Elisa McKeown, Chelsea Engstrom, Niki Helsel, Hannah Klose, Heather Smith, and Natalie Hoy and we will be traveling to the city of Amsterdam on Friday May 21st.

While in Amsterdam we will be staying and working with various YWAM (Youth With A Mission) ministries. We will be staying at the YWAM base in De Poort which is about a 20-minute walk from the Red Light District. Although we are not staying in the Red Light, we will be working there almost every day. We are partnering with two YWAM ministries located in the heart of the Red Light District: The Lighthouse and The Tabernacle of the Nations (www.ywamamsterdam.org ). The Lighthouse is a ministry that focuses on the issue of sex-trafficking and all the issues that go along with that. Their focus is on the prostitutes in the district as well as the brothel owners, buyers, and sellers. We will be helping this ministry with various service projects around their building as they are currently in the process of transition. We will also be able to host craft nights for women, lead devotions, and cook dinner for their bible study groups.

The other ministry, The Tabernacle, is a 24/7 prayer house that is located in an old church building within the Red Light. Their focus is on prayer, worship, and the arts. We will be taking 3-hour time slots throughout the week where we will be in prayer for the city and will worship and paint. Our heart is to intercede on the behalf of the city and to be constantly calling on the Lord for His presence to be made known in the heart of the darkest places in the city. We will also lead prayer walks around the city as well as evangelize through prayer and encounters with people on the streets.

We are really excited for this trip and we know that God has many plans in store for us! We all have hearts to see restoration and healing within the Kingdom of God and we believe that is exactly what God wants to do in Amsterdam, specifically with the Red Light District. We want to go to be able to share the light of Christ that we have with the people of Amsterdam and to partner with those that are already serving and encourage them in their long-term ministry. Our biggest heart is to see this city become a light to the other nations of Europe and to be a place of sending out missionaries to the world to bring transformation! We know that being a short-term team that we cannot accomplish much, but we are at least able to partner with the ones that are there long-term that can accomplish these goals and dreams for this city. We want to be able to lift them up and encourage them in their ministry so that they are able to keep pouring out to those within the Red Light District.

We cannot wait until the day we leave and we trust that God is going to continue to provide as we keep preparing to go! So far we have raised around $7000, however, we are still in need of $9000 in order to leave. We have already purchased our airfare but we still need to raise our living expenses and food for the month. If you would like to donate to our team you can do so through Simpson University at https://app.etapestry.com/fundraiser/SimpsonU/Amsterdam2010. We need to have all of our funds raised by May 15th.

If you would like to pray for us please pray for our financial needs. Here are some other prayer requests as well:

That our team would continued to be unified as we train for our trip and as we are there
That we would have favor as we coordinate with our ministries and missionary contacts
That God would continue to prepare us physically, spiritually, mentally, and emotionally for whatever we will encounter
For the city of Amsterdam and the ministries there
Protection and safety
Thank you for supporting us and walking with us through this amazing journey!! If you would like to stay updated with what we are doing throughout our trip you can follow our blog at: www.amsterdamteam2010.blogspot.com .

Tessa in Tanzania

2010-04-22T22:54:00.000-07:00

Hello friends and family! Or as they say in Swahili, Jambo!

My name is Tessa Ratner, and I am a 21-year-old Simpson student majoring in Cross-Cultural Studies with an emphasis in Transformational Community Development. This is quite a mouthful, but basically it means that I hope to fulfill God’s call to become a holistic missionary. I am passionate about the kingdom of God and fulfilling my call to be a part of Missio Dei, or the mission of God. I feel very blessed to have found such an incredible church family at the Stirring, and I currently serve there in the toddler class room at the morning service, as well as being involved in the creative team, creating images and art for the many series we have. I have been receiving training here at Simpson to be sent out into the world and serve him. And right now I have some very exciting news!

On May 10^th I will be leaving on a jet plane: destination Kigoma, Tanzania. There I will be completing my internship requirement for the Cross-Cultural Studies major. I will be working with an incredible mission called Joy in the Harvest, www.joyintheharvest.com, learning from the missionaries, and the local people there. I have been so blessed to get to know Lowell and Claudia Wertz over the past few months, as we have been corresponding and they are excited for my arrival! I am so excited to join them in Kigoma and each day the excitement rises! While I am unsure of what I will be doing there, I know they have many different projects, ministries, and outreaches that I will be able to participate and be a part of.

Joy in the Harvest is a holistic ministry in Kigoma, Tanzania. Some of their current projects and ministries include:

Feeding the street people three times a week

Refugee camp outreaches, ministry and assistance

Construction of community center

Destitute camp for the handicapped

Job training and education

Trees for Tanzania

And many other services helping local churches and missionaries.

I will be there until the week of June 11^th! I am so very excited to have this opportunity to have such an adventure with God. Please partner with me by praying for me during my time there! Also, I am still raising funds to make this trip possible. I am about $400 away from being able to purchase airfare, which I need to pay for by Monday, and then I still need some more for the trip and hopefully a gift to the ministry I am going to serve in. That leaves me with $1100 more to raise total. If you would like more information on how to donate to my trip fund, please email me at tessa_renae@yahoo.com!

Blessings to you all!

-Tessa Ratner

Almost "home"

2010-04-13T23:16:00.000-07:00

One of the girls that I mentor always says I'm obsessed with counting and numbers. I can remember being 9 or 10 and hearing my mom shouting across the house, "Leah? What's the church's phone number?"..."Leah? What's Grandma and Grandpa's number?" And I remembered them all. I had a memory bank of phone numbers.

I suppose it's true that I'm obsessed with numbers because I can tell you that it's 25 days till I am in California, 14 days till I move to Joburg, and 9 days till Piet comes to PE.

I've been thinking a lot lately how I'm so ready to settle somewhere. For almost the last two years, I've been moving around a lot and no where has really been "home". I haven't lived in my parent's house since I was 18. And although that will always be home, it's not really my home. I'm really looking forward to moving on to Joburg because I'll finally be settling down somewhere. It's coming at a good time.

For those of you who don't know, I am planning on getting married within the year. January 1 to be exact. I have no ring on my finger, but that should be coming soon! :) I've been cooking a lot more, partially out of boredom, and Piet says I've been doing a lot of good practicing at being a wife.

Our minds are funny things. I have been just fine being away from my family this whole year. But now that I know I'll be home soon, I've really starting missing home. I've been making a list of foods I'd like to eat (get ready Mom! (-: ), people I'd like to see, and I've even starting driving on the opposite side of the road! (Not on purpose, haha)

Welp, thanks for listening to the thoughts in my head.

Love is a gift, give it.
Be Blessed,

Leah

Shasta College: a campus transformed

2010-04-12T08:03:00.000-07:00

Rachel Kuhn, ultimately, wants to see
Shasta College transformed by the
gospel. That’s why she has joined
InterVarsity as a campus missionary.

I believe Shasta College can become
a training ground for a new generation
of world changers. Through
InterVarsity, students discover a deeper
intimacy with Jesus, learn to study the
Bible inductively, pray passionately for
their campus and world, share Christ’s
love in fresh ways, and are
empowered to live out the dreams
God has given them to bring His
Kingdom to earth. Our students will
graduate from Shasta College, not just
with a AA or AS, but with an
experiential degree in mission.
I consider you a significant player in
God’s work in our city, aware of the
importance of reaching the Shasta
College campus with the gospel. I am
inviting you to come meet other
crucial people of influence in the
Redding community and imagine what
it would mean to transform
students’ lives at Shasta College.

I look forward to sharing my goals
and vision for reaching Shasta, and
introducing you to Shawn Young, a
national leader with InterVarsity
Christian Fellowship. My hope is that
together we can map out some
clear steps to make this vision
become a reality. I value your input
in this discussion!

We can do this…together!
April 17th at 6:30 p.m.
Trinity Alliance Church
20639 State Highway 299 E
You can RSVP for this event by email: rach.kuhn@gmail.com

-Rachel Kuhn

Stirring Missions Support and Care Team

2010-04-01T23:50:00.000-07:00

Stirring Missions Support and Care Team meeting -

If you are interested in serving and caring for our missionaries, please join us
April 6th 7PM -Simpson University Coffee Shop

For more information please email Kari Beadner kbeadner@gmail.com

Long Term Sirring Missionaries

2010-04-01T23:44:00.000-07:00

Larry, Krista, Averiana, and Eli Lain
The Baton Rough Ministry Center 2006-2008
CAMA Services - Mongolia 2008 to present
B-Days
Larry: February 8th
Krista: March 24th
Averiana: December 29, 2000
Eli: March 22, 2004

Anniversary: 9/18/99

Email: larry.krista@gmail.com
The Lain's Blog

Leah Rush
South Africa 9/08 to present

B-Day: July 7th
Email: leahv77@gmail.com
Leah's Blog

M&A
Serving in East Asia
For security of these workers, please send any email correspondence to kburrell@gmail.com and the message will get to them. Please do not use their names or location in comments if you know them. Feel free to correspond with them on facebook!

The Barbers

2010-03-29T10:55:00.001-07:00

We are the Barber’s. We are expecting our first baby, and feel that God is calling our family to do missions through YWAM. We will be leaving in September to do a discipleship training school in Lakeside, Montana. The school is three months of training and two months putting our training into practice in another country. We are not sure what God is calling us to after this but we are stepping out in faith and obedience. All we know is that we love our God and want to serve him and his people however he asks us to. Saying this can be a little scary, because it means that we are open to anything, but we really are. We have a world full of lost, thirsty, and hurting people. Robert and I feel so blessed that God has called us to live a life of service. We are just stepping out and letting God lead. For more information on what a DTS is you can visit: www.ywammontana.org or www.ywam.org. We will be keeping everyone updated through our blog, so check it out! Keep us in your prayers.
We need support of all types! We need people to come behind us and support us with encouragement and prayer. We also need financial support. We need to raise close to $13000 to go on this trip. This includes the school fees which cover room/board and traveling fees, and also our personal needs like gas money, diapers, and shampoo! We will need a nanny while we are doing the three month discipleship training part of our DTS. The nanny wouldn’t be required to go overseas with us, but would need to raise support of $675. We want people to seek God and ask him how he would have them support us. We can answer questions and connect with people in person and through our contact info as follows. We also want to encourage people to follow the blog we are building.

Email: jennifervbarber@yahoo.com or robertsbarber@yahoo.com

Blog: www.thebarbers3.blogspot.com

Phone: (559) 760-5160

Address: 1167 Bond St.

Redding, CA 96002

Sarah Schepens - Jordan

2010-03-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

Sarah Schepens will be serving in Jordan May 2010-2011

Sarah will be joining a team of International workers, working mainly through a community center that offers English classes, a coffee shop, and a women's health clinic. Through these services Sarah will be building relationships with the women in the city.

Email: skapesny82@hotmail.com
Blog: http://www.strongatthebrokenplaces.blogspot.com
Birthday 9/24

Sarah will be in Redding, CA from now until the middle of May.
May 23-28 orientation in Ensenada, Mexico
End of May/beg of June leave for Jordan

Financial Needs:
I need $4000 of one-time financial gifts
I need $1150/monthly support

If you are interested in financial Supporting Sarah, please email her

The Lains - Mongolia

2010-03-14T23:20:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for coming to hear from the Lains today! If you would like to join the Lain's support team please contact them!

Larry and Krista Lain
CAMA Services International
PO Box 945
Darhan, Mongolia
Uul Aimag 45000
New Address to come as they move to west Mongolia in June

larry.krista@gmail.com

www.thelains.blogspot.com
www.camamongolia.com

Experience:
Military: USAF
         Larry, Water Specialist 1996-2002
         Krista, Engineer Assistant 1997-2002
         Assignments to Japan, Korea, Saudi
         Alaska, Wyoming
Simpson Grads...Larry: BA, CM Leadership '05, Krista: BA, Psych. '04, National Univ. MA, Counseling Psych. '05
The Stirring, Outreach, 2003-2005
PointMan Veteran's Ministries (Homeless and low-income Vets) 2003-2005
Baton Rouge Ministry Center, Community Development/Relief Workers after Hurricane Katrina 2005-2007
Short term Trips: Mexico 2001, Indonesia 2005
2008- Present: CAMA Community Development Workers in Mongolia

Birthdays:
Larry 2-8-78
Krista 3-24-79
Averiana 12-29-00
Eli 3-22-04

Anniversaries:
Wedding 9-18-99
Eli's Gotcha Day
(Adoption) 6-30-07

The Lains visit the Stirring

2010-03-09T21:56:00.000-08:00

This Sunday March 14th the Lains will be with us at all 3 gatherings. Come and hear about their ministry with CAMA in Mongolia.

At 12pm we will have a time of sharing, questions and prayer for the Lains at Downtown Eatery. There will be a $5 lunch available. Come have some good lunch and hear from our missionaries!

The Stirring Missions Support and Care Meeting March 9th

2010-03-06T21:58:00.000-08:00

Do you want to find out more about the needs of our missionaries? Do you want to find out more about who are missionaries are? Do you have ideas about how we can better serve our missionaries? Do you feel called to be a missionary?

If you answer yes to any of these questions, then please join us:

The Stirring Missions Support and Care Meeting
Tuesday March 9th 7PM @Simpson University Coffee Shop!

Thank yous

2010-02-16T21:29:00.000-08:00

We did and we love all the goodies!!! It was like a big party...we received it the day before Christmas...just in time with Grandma's gifts too. Thanks to great timing, we actually had some special gifts to put under the tree :) Thank you so much! We ate up most the goodies and we look forward to using the itunes cards as soon as we can get itunes uploaded...will have to take a trip to better internet source soon. I (Krista) almost used up all the candles already due to lots of stress-relieving baths (best part about being back in the apt :). We are so thankful!
- The Lains

Good news! My package arrived today! I can't believe it took two months! When it arrived it looked like it had been rifled through. I don't think anything was missing, but it was obvious that it had been resealed.

Anyway, thanks so much! It is was such a nice blessing! Especially the candles!! Oh my word I was so excited about so many wonderful smelling candles! :)

- Leah

Just wanted you to know that we received our Christmas package full of goodness on Thursday! Thank you so much and thanks to the Stirring!

- The Wills

How will you be involved??

2009-11-01T09:06:00.000-08:00

NOVEMBER 11th @7pm Simpson Univeristy YAKS

Come talk to us! Come Pray with us! How will YOU be involved in the Stirring Mission!!!

Car Accident

2009-10-06T08:46:00.000-07:00

Please pray for Larry and the kids. They got into a car accident today with our new Russian Van. From what I hear from the kids, a taxi ran a red light and T-boned Larry, which then turned the van on it's side while Averi and Eli were in the backseat. Eli is fine, Averi has a big knot on her head, and Larry says he is okay but his back is sore. Right now, Larry is at the police station sorting things out. (I haven't seen him yet). The van will be impounded for an uncertain amount of time, which may make transportation difficult back and forth to the ger we just moved into last night. (Praise the Lord for a good move! We set up the ger on Saturday and moved in on Sunday. We had a good first night (and today the sleeping bags we ordered came in so tonight should be toasty warm with a fire and cozy blankets :) Thank you so much for your prayers! We love you all!
Love Krista

A&M

2009-09-06T08:49:00.000-07:00

At the end of August we had a visit from A&M! We had a wonderful time of encouraging and praying with them.

Please continue to pray for the many people who have been displaced during a time of flooding in their area.

One at a time

2009-08-22T08:38:00.000-07:00

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2009

I've always told people I want to change the world. I guess I never understood what that exactly meant when I said it. Sure I've had dreams, aspirations, goals, but I never would call myself a visionary. When I say I want to change the world, I mean it, but I'm still trying to figure out what that looks like. Jesus changed his world and he wasn't even in it that long. Jesus caused waves in his world. I want my life to cause waves, to cause a reaction, to stir people to question the life they currently lead.
But is that what I mean when I say I want to change to the world? Perhaps. But sometimes my blood boils and stirs and I wish that I could snap my fingers and change things just like that. Change things because they're not supposed to be that way...they just aren't!

When a nanny calls in sick to work today saying she can't come in. The woman answering the phone feels in her gut that something wasn't right and goes over to the house to find this woman lying in a pool of blood beaten almost to death by her husband.

When a woman gets up every morning and willingly walks to work...a bar down the street where she tries to make enough money to feed her kids by selling herself.

When an eight year old child is forced by her mother to sell flowers on the street to make enough money for her family knowing full well that in a couple of years her "cuteness" will run out and she'll be selling other things by then.

When the woman with a well established food stand at the corner, hardened to life by her husband cheating and leaving her, cries as she talks about her daughter, not knowing what will become of both of them when her house sells.

I wonder at the choices these women have made, but what if they didn't know there were other choices to choose from? I wonder at the life that was given to them, at the life they have carved out for themselves or that others have carved for them. God can redeem, heal, and restore anything, I believe that to the core of being because it's what he did for me. It's what he continues to do for me. I can't hear these stories and NOT believe that the Lord couldn't do the same for them.

I don't know if I'll change the world...if the Lord chooses to use me in such a crazy way...I'd be honored. Perhaps I've done things, impacted people, that will in time do just that. But I'm content right now with it being one. To see the Lord bring love, a chance for education, renewed hope, and provision to ONE eight year old or ONE twenty five year old woman.

One at a time...it's how the waves start.

-Sarah Schepens

Thank you for your prayers

2009-08-13T00:07:00.001-07:00

Thanks for praying!!! Our flight went well and we made it to UB on Sunday evening and the Fields arrived on Tuesday night! We are all staying together in UB (the capital city) until our Field Forum beginning on Saturday. Thank you for your prayers for Larry and Jeremy as they meet with Leadership about next steps to help with the flood efforts. Most likely they will be spending a lot of time in the capital this month. Thank you!!!

Powered by the love of our Magnificent Obsession!!!
Larry and Krista Lain

Sarah is going back to Thailand

2009-07-02T07:28:00.000-07:00

So it's official. I bought my plane ticket to Thailand last week. An amazing ticket landed in my lap that was half the price of anything else I was looking at. The ticket was such an answer to prayer, so thank you to all who were praying.

Here are the details so far of my trip:

I will be leaving August 3rd flying from Sacramento, CA to Bangkok. I arrive in Chiang Mai on August 5th and will be there until August 22nd.

Once there, I will be spending time with old friends, visiting past places of ministry, and am currently setting up interviews and appointments with various organizations working with women. I am so excited to be in Thailand again! In many ways this is a mini vision trip and I cannot wait to see what the Lord does during this time

I've been so encouraged by all the positive responses I've received since sending my last email out. Thank you to you all who have been praying for clarity and wisdom as I pursue this endeavor. So many of you have asked how you can help financially and prayerfully so here's how:

I will need $1500 for this trip. The majority of this amount is my plane ticket. Once I'm there I have very few expenses. I have a couple of domestic flights within Thailand that are also included in this amount.

If you want to give towards my vision trip please make your checks payable to my church:
The Stirring and write 507-007 in the memo portion.
In order to deposit your check and make it tax-deductible please do not write my name anywhere on the check.
Send to:
The Stirring
1348 Market St #201
Redding, CA 96001

Things to pray for:

Please pray for continued wisdom and clarity as I follow the Lord's leading.
Pray for the Lord's guidance as I set up appointments and contacts with people and organizations.
Pray against fear, doubt, anxiety, and anything else the enemy will use to deter me from going forward.
The Lord is continually shaping this trip. Pray I will be open to the things He shows me before, during and after.

Prayer support is so very important and I cannot do this without you! I would love to have a specific team of prayer warriors with me while I'm over in Thailand. If you feel called to come alongside me in prayer during this time, please let me know.

Thank you again for all your prayers and encouragement. Your support is very much appreciated!

In His Hands,

Sarah Schepens

p.s. For more updated information on my life and this trip please check out my blog at http://strongatthebrokenplaces.blogspot.com/

Leah Rush is HOME!!

2009-05-13T21:37:00.000-07:00

Leah Rush will be with us at the Stirring on May 31st. Come and here about her ministry and how you can be involved in supporting her on going ministry in South Africa.

We will have lunch with Leah at noon at Puerto Vallarta 2315 Eureka Way Redding, CA 96001
Please come and spend time with Leah and ask any follow up questions you may have for her.

Please RSVP for lunch in a comment on this blog.

Jamacia May18 - June 8

2009-05-13T21:15:00.000-07:00

From Left to Right: Christina Hutchinson, Megan Furze, Sara Jackson, Laura Rainsberry

In partnership with Simpson University and Jamaica Link Ministries, the Stirring with be commissioning this team to minister in Jamaica. We will pray for the team on May 17 during the morning service at 10am.

The team will be working at the Robin's Nest (an orphanage/school) helping out with the kids, helping in the classroom, playing games with them and going to the ocean with them.
The Jamaica Christian School for Deaf- gardening projects & assisting in the classroom
SOS- (School/Home) assist in the basic school, and providing craft projects for the children
through out the stay we will be leading Bible studies and working with an all girls home.

You can follow the team on their blog

New York team update

2009-04-03T07:47:00.000-07:00

After six hours on the plane, three hours on the subway, (Oops... takes a while to learn to take the EXPRESS... oh my,) and twenty four hours without sleep...we stepped out into the chilling cold of Brooklyn New York. As we walked the streets to the church where we would be staying, I attempted to take in my surroundings. Wow, I was in for an awakening.

I remember praying that night in the dark. (Lights out at 11pm which would be 8pm here in California... I wasn't exactly ready to sleep) I felt the presence of God so heavily that night, and my heart ached in anticipation to what God was going to do in the short week that God had brought us to serve.

That week, I observed myself take emotional highs and lows that I never deemed possible. We served in pantries, soup kitchens, the "relief bus", and after school programs. Even in this short amount of time I felt huge God encounters... I felt the Spirit heavily upon us and the people that we encountered. God was using us as vessels, and it was the most beautiful thing I had ever witnessed.

Tuesday was incredible. We took a prayer tour around the entire city. We went into three of the five burroughs... Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx... We went into huge ethnic centers, Little Italy, China Town, and Harlem... Every face that I saw, every person... God loves them all, and I saw God in all of them... and I prayed for God's Kingdom to come upon each of God's people in this city.

Throughout the prayer tour we had several divine appointments that just blew me away.

There was Deborah, who overheard us praying for Little Italy, and China Town and came over and said "Amen!" We encouraged her through prayer...She had an amazing heart for God, and I will never forget her eyes.

There was Tyrone, who overheard us praying in the Bronx, and came up to us asking for prayer, for healing. Amazing.

But the one encounter that God put upon us is something that I can never forget. It took place in Times Square of all places. We were trying to hear what people thought of homelessness in NYC. Our team was split into two groups and sent out into Times square to have conversations with the people. The first person that Travis, Schnae, Megan, and I came across was a some sort of a guard for the red stairs. We tried to ask him about homelessness and he simply stated that he had no opinion on the matter. That is when we turned and I saw him, smack dab in the middle of Times Square.

"Reality"(this was is show name, we won't use his actual name for privacy reasons) was holding a "liquidation sale" sign right in the center. When I saw him I said to the others in my group, "Lets talk to him," as I pointed in his direction. The others nodded in agreement and we started walking towards him.

God had led us to a Jamaican man who used to be homeless himself in NYC. "Reality" shared his testimony with us, and shared how tremendous homelessness is there. He was absolutely blown away by us coming to talk to him and I could see tears in his eyes after he shared his story, I reminded him of something that he already knew. I said, "You are a blessing to all of the people around you." He was so taken aback, and said "Me? A blessing?" and I said back to him, "Of course, you." A man that was once homeless himself, who had been taken in and had been radically touched by God. A man once homeless himself is now trying to help the homeless. In awe we all hugged him, and reminded him that he was being prayed for, and he told us he would be praying for us as well. Beautiful.

Each year over 100,000 people in New York experience homelessness. This is a growing epidemic. This city has invaded my heart, and God wants this city. The people there are in need of love.

Family, my family. Thank you for your support through prayer and other means. No matter how small, God has used this past week to glorify His name and I truly believe that. Tears were shed, prayers were prayed, and love was shared. Please continue to pray for this city. Thank you.

Tessa Renae Ratner

Praise from Leah

2009-03-31T23:17:00.000-07:00

After our time of Prayer at all gatherings last week, Leah experienced an answer to one of our prayers!!!

She wrote: I woke up Monday morning feeling GREAT! thanks so much for your prayers. -Leah

Prayer request from the Lains

2009-03-31T23:12:00.000-07:00

WARRIORS,
Please pray for God's will.
We had been planning a trip out west leaving tomorrow, but many factors are leaving us unsure of what to do. One being that I am really sick.
Please Pray as God Leads,
Larry

PLEASE PRAY FOR THE LAINS~
1. Pray for BREAKTHROUGH in Language Study and Prayer
2. Pray for continued Identity in Christ in the midst of role deprivation
3. Pray for Boldness and Confidence to share the gospel and enter into the throne room of grace
4. Pray for renewal of our minds ( and a nice break from school) during Spring Break (April 3-12)
5. Pray for health during the changing seasons and perseverance to face many dust storms.
6. Pray for us as we move to Tosgon later this month to watch over the Fields house while they are gone on furlough until July
7. Pray for Larry's first trip to Western Mongolia with Jeremy Fields during Spring Break...(We will be moving to Western Mongolia in 2010)
Pray for relationship building with the Fields
Pray for Krista as she stays home with Averi and Eli (and spends lots of time with Krista Fields and kiddos)

Pray for connections to be made with the Kazakh people
Pray that God will give us His heart for the people
Pray that the Holy Spirit will guide them, house them, and feed them :)
Pray for safe and comfortable travel (40 hrs each way of very bumpy roads...more like trails...in a very crammed bus or van!)
PRAISE GOD FOR HIS RESURRECTION POWER AND NEW LIFE IN HIM!
May His Salvation be known among all nations...May all the peoples praise Him! Psalm 67

Short term team in New York

2009-03-22T21:18:00.000-07:00

Two members of the Stirring have joined the Simpson University /Spring Break missions trip to New York City. We are honored to support Tessa Ratner and Megan Fitzgerald in ministry this week.

Please keep this team in pray this week as they ministry in New York.

Thank you from the Lains

2009-03-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

BIG news from Leah!

2009-03-21T12:51:00.000-07:00

I've made a big decision in the past week. I've decided to stay in South Africa. I will be coming home for about 5 weeks between May and June, but will be moving my whole life over here indefinitely. I can't believe it, but I'm so excited! Everything has been falling into place so well, it's definitely God's hand over everything.

-Leah Rush

Thank you from A&M

2009-03-21T12:47:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to let you know that we received the care package from you all in Redding this last week. We are so so appreciative of it. The arrival was very timely as both M and I have been super busy and emotionally worn down. It was such a joy to open the letters from friends back home. And of course, we loved all the stuff that we can't get here!

Thank you so much for everything. We appreciate the love and support from the Stirring. We definitely feel the support we are given by everyone there. Thank you for thinking of us.

Many blessings,
A & M

A Message from Leah Rush - South Africa

2009-02-16T11:56:00.000-08:00

Stirring family,

Greetings from half-way around the world! I think about you often and wish I could be there to see how the church must be growing!

I am finding South Africa to be my home more and more each day. If you aren't aware, my original team of 50 split into smaller teams in the beginning of January. Myself and 14 others are currently in Port Elizabeth, SA about an hour from where I started my time here.

Port Elizabeth is ripe for ministry. We commonly refer to it as "uncharted waters" as there haven't been many missionaries come through. There are a lot of genuine hurts in this city and my team and I continuing to discover what those are. Racism, poverty, drugs, cutting, and safety are at the top of our prayer lists. It is very interesting to see that the segregation of three races very much still exists seeing that the Apartheid ended only 15 years ago.

Our team is partnering with a Baptist (very charismatic Baptist) church in the area and is helping out wherever we can. A few of us are very active in the youth group and are even beginning to walk closely with a few of the students as they face typical high school struggles. This is my favorite ministry that I am involved in here in P.E. During the week, I help with homework and teach swimming lessons to kids in a Children's Home just down the street. I am training them for the South African "Iron Kids" competition! The Home houses 4-18 year olds who have been abandoned, orphaned, or displaced. The Home isn't necessarily Christian, so it is a good opportunity to bring the hope and love of Christ. I also help out with toddlers one morning a week in the local township (black poor area).

My internship officially ends the middle of May, but I still haven't decided if I'll be on that plane. I have been searching for a place to serve overseas for many years now, and finally feel like I've found a place that fits. I'm still praying relentlessly that the Lord will clearly open or shut doors for me to stay.

Pray for my team as we desire unity and discover how to love one another. Pray also for me as I am desperate for more of God's presence in my life, and that He alone will direct my steps.

Christmas Packages for our Missionaries

2008-11-25T18:27:00.000-08:00

Christmas blessing to our friends in Mongolia, East Asia and South Africa.

We will send care packages to the our missionaries Larry and Krista, A&M, and Leah.

Please bring listed items and drop off on Sunday Morning or Evening at the church
info table on November 30th and December 7th.

Please write a special note or card to be included in the package.
Family pictures would be great as well.

Feel free to send greetings on your own as well. As a missionary, receiving mail around the American holidays is a great piece of "HOME."

The Lains (Mongolia)

· zip locks

· Fruit and Nut Trail Mix

· Ms. May's Nuts/Bars

· Hot Cocoa

· Macaroni and Cheese

· Natural Peanut Butter

· Marshmallows

· Yerba Mate Tea/ Chai Tea

· Herbal Tea/Good Fresh Coffee

· 100% Grade A or B Maple Syrup

· Tuna Fish/Chicken in packages not can

· Dried Fruit/ Nuts: Pecans, Walnuts, Almonds

· Odwalla/Clif/LUNA bars

A&M (East Asia)

- Dried blue berries

- Dried Cranberries

- I-tunes card

- Good teas.

- Abbie really likes spicy scented candles

- dried tomatoes

- Multi vitamins

Leah Rush (South Africa)
- Reece's cups
- Dr. Pepper -FYI the plastic bottles of soda make it better than cans :)
- Granola bars

Coffee with the Lains

2008-11-10T21:53:00.000-08:00

Kari's reapplication interview with Asian Access

2008-10-11T14:13:00.000-07:00

Please take a few minutes to read my blog about the reapplication interview with Asian Access. You may notice a new title of my blog as well. I welcome any comments or questions. I am so excited about the ability to give the Stirring missions efforts a more concentrated commitment.

Do you want to learn Japanese?

2008-09-06T16:34:00.000-07:00

日本語会話 - Japanese Conversation

Where: Simpson University L/R 103
Times: Tuesdays 6:30PM-7:30PM (beginning 9/9)
Cost: $10 per month
Instructor: Kari Burrell
Other: We will learn conversational Japanese, writing, culture, prayer, and ministry methods in Japanese context.

Please email RSVP kburrell@asianaccess.org

Introducing Sarah Schepens

2008-09-03T21:07:00.000-07:00

Isn't she in Africa yet?

2008-08-29T20:58:00.000-07:00

Here is an amazing testimony from Leah...

Well, no. Not yet. But, honestly, it couldn't come soon enough. I'm just getting so anxious; my mind has been in Africa for far too long now. It's been a month since I moved...only a week to go.

Only a week until training in Georgia, but it's still two weeks until I'm in Africa.

My fundraiser was incredible last weekend! God totally blew me away. My mom cooked chicken marsala for about 50 people, my brother David played classical guitar as dinner music, we had some Africa trivia, David and I taught everyone a French African song, and some other fun stuff. To raise money, the dinner was $10 per person. So I assumed I would make somewhere between $500-$600. But my money was tripled!!! I couldn't believe it. I got an email that the official count was $1838! I don't even know how that happened. People have been so incredibly generous in their giving. After the dinner and with a few other donations, I'm passed my goal! I raised more than I need, which is such a blessing! I can't believe I did it. The Lord has been so good to me.

I'm officially ready to go...nine days, only nine days...

CHILDREN SUICIDES

2008-08-24T16:17:00.000-07:00

A sixth-grade girl was found early one morning in Nagano, Japan, hanging from an overhead screen in her classroom. She left seven separate envelopes for her classmates, mother and school authorities, each decorated with a teddy bear, balloon or other cute pictures.

“Did you guys hate me? Was I weird?” asked one letter to her classmates. “I could not trust most of you people.” The letter said classmates had ignored her for years.

Japanese newspapers and television revealed the case, and many more similar cases of suicides. The reports triggered an avalanche of more than 2,000 letters of protest to the schools.

The Ministry of Education said it has received at least 32 handwritten letters recently from students saying they're also considering suicide.

Pressure on the teachers is getting stronger and stronger. Teachers stay at schools past 8 p.m. nightly to finish administrative work and routinely are involved on Saturdays and Sundays in club activities for the children.

“Parents, teachers and children are all under great stress,” said Professor Sato of a Tokyo university.
Source: McClatchy News, by E. Doi, 2006-12-06

Why can people not look to the God of the universe for solutions for stress?

Be anxious for nothing,
but in everything by prayer and supplication,
with thanksgiving,
let your requests be made known to God;
and the peace of God,
which surpasses all understanding,
will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus
(Philippians 4:6).

We do not need to fret and worry! Let God replace them with a peace more wonderful than any human mind can comprehend!

theLains your Mongolian Family

2008-08-09T11:34:00.000-07:00

Stirring Family,
Thank you for your prayers and support!
Some of you have asked me about raising support for a vehicle. We will probably raise support for a vehicle in the future along with a motorcycle and a horse, but it seems that it is field policy for language students not to have any of their own transportation in their first year. This fosters more dependence on our team and new culture.

Please pray for going out West, our Home stay, Language study, and Support.

West:
There are three locations the field is considering to pursue in this next year. Of those three one has the highest potential of success and one has the greatest need...please pray we just don't choose the easiest without considering the needs! We are one of the families whom potentially are going to the west. We WANT to be sent to the west because we feel CALLED: It will be rural, sparse, limited electricity, no running water, living in yurts or a communal cabin with the other two (potential) families.

Pray:
That we can connect and build community with these two families now.
That God will provide and produce vision within our team.
That competency in language will come in this next year that will demonstrate: self discipline and motivated learning that will aid in our 2nd year of language study in the west.
Preparing for communal living: Sharing a Home with two other families(4 American Adults, 1 single female Aussie, 2 Mongolian Adults, and a lot of kids (5+)), sharing a vehicle, chores, schooling of children, and working together in projects, CP, and in a "M" and "B" context.

Home Stay:
We have been in our Yurt (Ger/tent) for approximately two weeks and we love it. Our family is very gracious and we are having many breakthroughs in language and prayer. Please, continue to pray for them.

Language Study:
Either will start on the 21st or the 25th of August. Mongolian is a hard language! Pray that our ears and tongues are set free!
Comprehension of the vocab and grammar.

Support:
We need prayer for our monthly financial support. We have seen God provide in Miraculous ways and our hearts are filled with PRAISE.
Praise God that even though not all our pledged supporters have not been able to give God has given us above and beyond our needs thus far!

Thank you so much for being a part of our Mongolian Family!
PTL,
Larry

--
Larry J. Lain
www.thelains.blogspot.com
larry.krista@gmail.com

Let's Support Leah Rush!!

2008-08-03T15:09:00.000-07:00

Leah is our short term missionary to South Africa. She departs on September 8th. Leah will be serving with Adventures in Missions for 9 months.

Here's a little blurb from Leah: I will be going to Jeffrey's Bay, South Africa for a nine-month long internship with Adventures in Missions (AIM). I will be working in schools, hospitals, prisons, with kids, at care points, and most importantly building relationships with the locals. After the nine months, I have the opportunity to stay with the organization in Jeffrey's Bay, lead or be a part of another trip in a different part of Africa, perhaps work for AIM in the States....my options are limitless. My heart has always been to work in Africa, so I am thrilled for this opportunity!!

Leah needs $9000 in financial support for the nine month trip. To date, Leah has raised 50%!!!
Please pray about giving towards Leah's ministry. You can give easily buy clicking here.

Other ways to support Leah would be through prayer and encouragement. You can find all of Leah's contact information in the post below.

Let's send Leah out well, fully supported, and cared for while she is there!!

the Stirring Missionaries

2008-08-02T11:10:00.000-07:00

Kari Burrell
Serving with Asian Access - Japan
2002 Summer - Sakata Christ Church
2004-2007 - Yashiro Lutheran Church
Preparing for a Fall 2009 return to Japan

B-Day: September 15th
Email: kburrell@asianaccess.org
Kari's Blog

Larry, Krista, Averiana, and Eli Lain
The Baton Rough Ministry Center 2006-2008
CAMA Services - Mongolia 2008 to present
B-Days
Larry: February 8th
Krista: March 24th
Averiana: December 29, 2000
Eli: March 22, 2004

Anniversary: 9/18/99

Email: larry.krista@gmail.com
The Lain's Blog

Leah Rush
Adventures in Missions South Africa 9/08-5/09

B-Day: July 7th
Email: leahv77@gmail.com
Leah's Blog
Mailing Address:
Leah Rush
PO Box 921
Jeffrey's Bay South Africa 6330

M&A
Serving in East Asia
For security of these workers, please send any email correspondence to kburrell@asianaccess.org and the message will get to them. Please do not use their names or location in comments if you know them.

the Stirring Missions

2008-08-02T11:09:00.000-07:00

the Stirring is a community of followers of Jesus Christ, committed to live by faith, to be known by love, and to be a voice of hope to our generation. We have a deep passion to follow Jesus and champion His movement. We welcome people from all walks of life, regardless of where they are in their spiritual journey.

Missions is not just a part of what we do as a church. It is who we are. To be involved with missions does not require you to get on a plane and go to a foreign country. We are all called to be involved in missions in what ever we do.

The question is what are you doing to be involved with missions? Do you feel called to go (near or far) to those in the world who have yet to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ? Are you called to encourage missionaries who are on the mission field? Are you giving financially towards the missionaries sent out by our church? Do you have questions about what your part in all of this might be?

Please feel free to write a comment or email me kburrell@asianaccess.org ! I would love to pray with you!

We are the church we are all called to be involved in Missions!