Home Missions Today

May 14, 2008

This is Richard Gerber reporting the May 14, 2008 edition of Home Missions Today. God is using your prayers to develop the ministries of Orthodox Presbyterian mission works across North America.

HONOLULU, HAWAII—Doug and Sue Watson rejoice together with the saints on Oahu, Hawaii who are now part of Redeemer OPC. The newest mission work of the Presbytery of Southern California has seen our Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior of the body and Head over all things to his church, fulfilling his promise to build his church. Redeemer was received as a mission work in February, 2007 while meeting as a Sunday afternoon Bible study under the teaching of the Rev. John Carter, an OPC Navy chaplain. The Rev. Doug Watson and his wife Sue arrived in May, 2007 to a group of 20, so that Doug could lead the group after John was deployed. The group began worship services on September 9. Rev. Watson is now serving as the organizing pastor. Sunday morning attendance averages 35. Please pray that the Lord will bring a steady influx of new families to replace those who regularly leave due to transfer. This congregation is made up mainly of military and government services families who are usually transferred after three years. Please pray for the session to have wisdom in ministering to the people of God in this situation.

BRADENTON, FLORIDA—Pastor David Smiley reports that they are encouraged at the prospect of another inquirer's class as several people new to God's family at Providence have expressed interest in joining the church. Praise God for the men who have been nominated for biblical office. The building committee continues to work diligently to see where God would open a door to a more permanent location in the community. Thank God for the sufficient space in the current facility to worship God free from undo distraction throughout the recent winter season. God blessed with an average of over 100 worshipers in morning worship service during the month of March. Pray that God would use Providence's first vacation Bible school, to be held in August, as a means to reach children and new families with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

BRIDGETON, NEW JERSEY—New Hope Presbyterian Church is thankful that Pastor Claude Taylor has now been officially installed as the pastor of the congregation, and that several men have been nominated to serve as elders and deacons. Please pray that the officer training will go smoothly, and that a working board of deacons will be established. There are currently about twenty people who are moving toward membership, plus a number of new visitors who have been attending regularly. Significant renovations to the manse have been completed, and attention is now being given to some much-needed improvements to the church building and grounds. Pray also for the youth ministry that is just starting, and for efforts to move toward consistent evening worship. Finally, please pray for the weekly radio broadcast and for efforts to make connections in the community, especially in the neighborhood surrounding the building.

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA—The Lord continues to be gracious to his saints at Redemption OPC. Pastor Joel Fick reports that they have finished their first membership class with six prospective members in attendance and are now membership interviews are being conducted. The Lord is growing his church. Currently, some promotional materials are being developed to facilitate a more visible presence in the community. Pray that the Lord will send both believers and unbelievers alike, and that, as Redemption OPC is faithful to sow and water, God will give the increase.

Look for the next edition of Home Missions Today on Wednesday, May 28, or call 215-830-9424 ext. 46.