Today is Pentecost Sunday, and across Europe many are taking a few days off for their pre-summer break (German: Pfingstferien). During this annual celebration in the church calendar, we remember how God gave the Holy Spirit to the Church. No longer (as in the OT) does He only rest on certain individuals for a certain period of time for a specific task. Today He indwells (at the point of conversion) everyone who is a true follower of Jesus Christ. How easy in day-to-day life do we forget this amazing reality that should cause us to reflect on everything we say, think and do – Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, ESV)
Holy Spirit, Living Breath of God
Words and Music by Keith Getty & Stuart Townend
© 2006 Thankyou Music
When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. (Acts 2:1-4, ESV)
Click here for the lyrics and the story behind the song
CEF European Conference 2013
Changes were being made right up until arrival day. People dropped out and people turned up that we hadn't expected :) Even before the conference started we were reminded that there was a spiritual battle going on. Several people cancelled at the last minute or were hindered due to illnesses, sudden bereavements, accidents, a twisted foot, refused visa, broken down vehicle, missed plane... then during the conference a vomiting and diarrhoea bug with associated high temperatures went around so that 2 children and an adult ended up in hospital. An early morning phone call from a concerned worker alerted me to an internal drain pipe which came loose during heavy rain and flooded the main foyer (thankfully none of the nearby translation equipment was damaged). Of course, most people knew nothing about any of these things and so they were able to fully enjoy the conference.
In the end, 350 people (plus day guests) from 39 countries were challenged and encouraged by the excellent messages from the book of Hebrews through pastor and author Robert J. Morgan. The seminars from Robert Lugar on issues of identity and balancing marriage with ministry, were particularly practical and appropriate for our workers. Each evening session was concluded with a "heart2heart" message from Reese Kauffman (International President of CEF). Interspersed throughout the main meetings were short reports from the various departments of training, equipping, supporting and member care. Linda Corry and her band representing workers from Slovakia, Czech Republic, Ukraine, Switzerland, Romania and Ireland, led the times of praise. A nice touch this year was that each evening had a focus on one of our four European regions. This was complemented by people wearing national dress and sometimes even providing us all with things to try from their country.
For the second time, I had the responsibility of organising this conference – something I enjoyed a lot. It was very exhausting, but the Lord gave the strength and the ability to think and react quickly as each new situation arose. One week before the conference I was facing an impossible task of fitting 370 registered persons into Schönblick guest house. Some rooms in nearby hotels had been reserved. However in the end everyone had a bed in the centre, and I even had one spare room which right until the end of the conference remained unused.
My thanks goes out to all involved in different ways: sound, lights, power-point, video, interpretation equipment, praise-band, leading meetings, interpreting (8 languages simultaneously), crèche, children's programme, info-point, literature sales, transport, finances, gift purchasing, room allocation... as well as the wonderful staff at Schönblick in housekeeping, catering, administration and maintenance. Thanks also to all who prayed, sent an email or said an encouraging word.
Thanks most of all to God, without Whom we can do nothing.
www.cefeuropeanconference.com
In the end, 350 people (plus day guests) from 39 countries were challenged and encouraged by the excellent messages from the book of Hebrews through pastor and author Robert J. Morgan. The seminars from Robert Lugar on issues of identity and balancing marriage with ministry, were particularly practical and appropriate for our workers. Each evening session was concluded with a "heart2heart" message from Reese Kauffman (International President of CEF). Interspersed throughout the main meetings were short reports from the various departments of training, equipping, supporting and member care. Linda Corry and her band representing workers from Slovakia, Czech Republic, Ukraine, Switzerland, Romania and Ireland, led the times of praise. A nice touch this year was that each evening had a focus on one of our four European regions. This was complemented by people wearing national dress and sometimes even providing us all with things to try from their country.
For the second time, I had the responsibility of organising this conference – something I enjoyed a lot. It was very exhausting, but the Lord gave the strength and the ability to think and react quickly as each new situation arose. One week before the conference I was facing an impossible task of fitting 370 registered persons into Schönblick guest house. Some rooms in nearby hotels had been reserved. However in the end everyone had a bed in the centre, and I even had one spare room which right until the end of the conference remained unused.
My thanks goes out to all involved in different ways: sound, lights, power-point, video, interpretation equipment, praise-band, leading meetings, interpreting (8 languages simultaneously), crèche, children's programme, info-point, literature sales, transport, finances, gift purchasing, room allocation... as well as the wonderful staff at Schönblick in housekeeping, catering, administration and maintenance. Thanks also to all who prayed, sent an email or said an encouraging word.
Thanks most of all to God, without Whom we can do nothing.
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| The 2013 CEF European Conference in Schönblick, Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany. |
Labels:
CEF,
CEF European Conference
Korean Trip
I have just returned from a 4-day trip to South Korea where I had the privilege of being the speaker at the CEF Korean conference for leaders and local directors. This years' theme was 'Youth Challenge' and I taught 10 sessions of 50 minutes each with interpretation.
The fellowship was very special, the food was amazing (I'm now a master with the chop-sticks) and it was amazing to pray with these believers 'Korean style' (everyone at the same time, out loud, in their own language) for the children and teenagers of South Korea as well as to cry out to God for open doors into the north (a country very much on my heart).
If you have been watching the news in recent day, you will know that it has been dominated by threats coming from Pyongyang. The day I arrived, news broke that the north was advising foreigners to leave the country. My Korean friends smilled and said, "Don't worry, we will take care of you and we are all in God's hands". Despite the reservations of many about travelling to the region, I felt that this was an opportunity to speak to these dear CEF workers that was one too good to miss. Now I am so glad that I went.
감사합니다
Labels:
CEF,
JYC training seminar,
Korea
NW Europe Area advisory group
A man's essential hand-luggage guide
As airlines become increasingly fussy about what and how much we take unto a plane, I thought it would be helpful to share with you what I consider to be "essential kit".
A few times I have found myself at my destination but the bag I checked in has only come two or even three days later. Therefore I now include in my hand-luggage everything I need to live comfortably for 48 hrs. In the case of delayed luggage, many airlines will reimburse you for "essential purchases" (provided you keep receipts) but it may not always be possible to easily make those purchases at your destination.It is advisable to keep all valuables in your hand-luggage as you have this with you at all times. In my pockets (i.e. on my person) I keep my passport, boarding cards, mobile phone (fully-charged) and wallet.
Remember that different airlines have different restrictions regarding the size and weight of the bag you can bring on board. The low-cost airlines are more likely to weigh the bag before boarding, although most will do it only if the flight is very full.
- I use a Samsonite bag that conforms to the size requirements, has a retractable handle, 2 wheels and concealed shoulder straps which allow you to convert it into a rucksack if the terrain at the destination is unsuitable for wheels.
- Teaching/meeting notes, laptop/tablet, power cable, VGA adapter...
- Shoulder bag. Can be pressed flat and placed inside hand-luggage bag (if only one item of hand-luggage is allowed). I use this bag when going out as an alternative to carrying the bigger bag.
- Toiletries in transparent zipper-bags. A few years ago strict regulations were brought in regarding the transportation of liquids. No single bottle can have space for more than 100 ml. Special travel size toiletries can be purchased at most chemists but if you stay at a hotel, take the little shampoo or hand cream bottles with you for your next trip.
- Don't forget your toothbrush!
- Wet-wipes. Always useful for cleaning up spills or as an alternative to a shower if this is not possible.
- Packet of tissues.
- Small face towel. Made of special anti-fungal fibres which allow it to be packed away while still damp (available in outdoor shops). A larger version can be used as a travel towel.
- Head torch. Useful for reading in bed or for locating the toilet at night without wakening your room-mate. It can also be worn if out running in the dark.
- Two changes of socks and underwear. If you need to go into "survival mode" you can start to hand-wash in the sink using liquid detergent like 'rei'. Place washed items on plastic coat-hangers and drip dry in the shower or over bath. Later place over radiator.
- One change of clothes
- Crocs or slippers. Culturally, many countries prefer you to remove your outdoor shoes when you come inside. They may offer you a pair of ill fitting slippers but you will feel much more comfortable if you have your own to hand.
- Charging cables. If you forget to bring your phone charger don't panic. Most hotel receptions have a box containing chargers other guests left behind. Just ask and they will usually lend you one for free.
- A battery-powered cordless shaver. This holds charge for about 5 days so no need to bring the cable. If sharing a bathroom, you can shave in your room and avoid blocking the bathroom for long periods (particularly useful if staying with a family who only have one bathroom)
- Hat and gloves. Pack these at the top of the case for quick access when standing waiting on a lift or public transport.
- In-ear headphones. Arguably the most important piece of kit. They can block out the noise of a crying baby on a flight or you can listen to a podcast at night if you are having difficulty falling asleep. Sometimes I wear the earphones unplugged, just to reduce the noise level.
- Polo mints or fisherman's friends. To combat bad breath, Especially after teaching or preaching, I like to have these in my pocket.
- Running clothes and shoes. These are lightweight and do not take up much space, especially if you pack things inside the shoes. Often trips can involve hours of non-stop sitting at meetings. Getting out for an early morning or evening run helps combat back pain, clears the mind and generally helps you just to feel better.
- A few packets of instant coffee. Not really essential but it takes up so little space I just throw it in for a little treat.
- First aid kit. Last year I had a 5 hour stay at an airport while waiting for a connecting flight. The whole time I had a severe migraine headache but there were no shops selling tablets. I vowed to never travel again without having Ibuprofen in my hand-luggage. Depending where you are travelling to, you should also pack, aspirin or Lemsip, something for when you can't "go" and something for when you can't "stop", Iberogast (for tummy cramps), sticky plasters, antiseptic wipes and savlon antiseptic cream.
- Some local currency. For a coffee or snack at the airport.
- A Bible. I searched a lot before finding this one. Lightweight, big enough to preach from, ESV and most importantly it can be zipped closed, so it can be squeezed into the bag without fear of crumpling the pages.
Other things to pack if space permits:
- Sleeping bag liner. A thin light-weight layer that increases hygiene and sometimes gives you that extra warmth and comfort necessary for a good nights sleep. Or a travel blanket for those cold nights.
- Travel towel. Small, light-weight, quick drying. If the air in the room is very dry, take a shower before going to bed and place the wet towel over the heater.
- Ear plugs. Put them in and place your head on the pillow. You will never regret bringing them – believe me!
- Small travel kettle, plastic mug and convenience foods like cup-a-soup or dried noodles that can be prepared in your room without offending your host.
- Hot-water bottle. There's nothing worse than lying awake for hours in a strange place because you can't get warm.
- Box of chocolates. If staying with a family, present them as a gift on arrival. Bring some small packets of sweets or bars of chocolate to give away to people you meet.
What do you like to put into your hand-luggage? Have I left out something important?
Labels:
travel
St. Patricks outreach in the FES Lörrach
„Slemish war super! Klasse Aktion“, so die
Stimme aus der Grundschule nachdem die Gruppe Slemish den Unterricht
mitgestaltet hat und im Pausenhof unserer Schule spielte.Diese Begeisterung war auch am Samstagabend
beim Konzert vom ersten Lied an zu spüren. Der Spannungsbogen hielt bis zum
Schluss an und animierte Besucher nach Konzertschluss, begleitet von der Band,
sich im traditionellen irischen Tanz zu üben.Paul, Nigel, Andy, Albert, Andrew, Kevin & Davy verbanden
traditionelle Musik mit den Erzählungen zu ihrem Glauben und der Kultur
Irlands. So entstand ein bunter, unterhaltsamer und hinreißender Abend mit
phantastischer Folk Musik, direkt von der Grünen Insel. Die Musiker
beeindruckten auf ihre besondere und irisch-fröhliche Art das Publikum, und
brachten so auch einen Hauch des Irischen Nationalfeiertags St. Patrick's Day
am Vorabend nach Lörrach. Bilder von Städten und der Landschaft Irlands, die
parallel und abgestimmt zu den Liedern gezeigt wurden, rundeten das
traditionelle und geistliche Liedgut ab.Gegründet wurde die Band im Jahr 2005, dabei bezieht sich der Bandname
„Slemish“ auf einen Berg in Irland, auf dem, der Überlieferung nach, Saint
Patrick seine Verbindung zu Gott gefunden hat. Er wurde als Jugendlicher
versklavt, in diese Gegend verschleppt und musste Herden auf dem Slemish hüten.
Auch ein Bandmitglied berichtete von seiner besonderen Verbindung zu Deutschland, hat er doch hier zu seinem Glauben an Jesus Christus gefunden.2008 erschien das erste Album von „Slemish“, nach erfolgreichen Auftritten in Irland, Frankreich und Spanien. Die Bandmitglieder sind keine Musikprofis, sondern nehmen sich jedes Jahr rund um den St. Patrick Day einige Tage Urlaub und reisen auf eigene Kosten in Städte um dort ihre Musik und Ihren Glauben weiterzugeben.
Auch ein Bandmitglied berichtete von seiner besonderen Verbindung zu Deutschland, hat er doch hier zu seinem Glauben an Jesus Christus gefunden.2008 erschien das erste Album von „Slemish“, nach erfolgreichen Auftritten in Irland, Frankreich und Spanien. Die Bandmitglieder sind keine Musikprofis, sondern nehmen sich jedes Jahr rund um den St. Patrick Day einige Tage Urlaub und reisen auf eigene Kosten in Städte um dort ihre Musik und Ihren Glauben weiterzugeben.
Man-centered vs. God-centered Teaching from Children Desiring God
Man-centered vs. God-centered Teaching from Children Desiring God on Vimeo.
David & Sally Michael explain the difference between man-centered and God-centered Bible teaching. From their March 2011 presentation "A Vision for God-Centered Worship in the Next Generation". Watch the full video: http://vimeo.com/21400553
Teaching CEF workers to teach others also
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| Instructors and students at the 2013 IOT-1 course in Kilchzimmer Photo by Tim Shirey (13/02/2013) |
Pray that each student will be able to be involved in TCE (Teaching Children Effectively) training back in their own countries, so that more teachers will be trained and more children reached.
Pray for the European Education department, that we will be able to reach the goal of training 120 people this year at CMLCs in Europe.
Labels:
CEF,
IOT,
Kilchzimmer
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