April/May News 2009

The Here
We are amazed. Blessed. Humbled. God has in so many ways shown us that we were meant to be in Ireland for such a time as this. For example:

Within the first week of our arrival we started looking for a car. We found our ‘dream’ vehicle on an internet site, and arranged to have a look at it (even though we knew we didn’t have the full amount they were asking for). The couple selling the car were Americans moving back to the States who were looking to liquidate most of their posessions by the end of the month. In speaking with them, we found out that the wife has met Billy Graham and has a good knowledge of YFC and their mission to the youth of the world. Through that relationship, God blessed us with a great van and nearly everything we needed to outfit our new home from towels to a garlic press, all within what we had budgeted.

If we had arrived even a month earlier, our car insurance would have been astronomical due to an accident 3 years ago. Also, we would not have been able to barter for cheaper rent on our home, as is the norm now with the recession. A bike for Sarai, a gift to replace Kevin’s recently broken glasses, friends and mentors for all of us, ministry opportunities, and added financial and prayer supporters among so many other blessings—God is meeting many of our needs and hearts’ desires even before we voice them. It’s been so many things like this that keep us amazed. The past two months have shown us His goodness and faithfulness, and that all the pains in the waiting to get here are nothing in the light of what He has in store for this moment.

And the Now
Like starting a new business, we have been buying office supplies, researching computers, getting familiar with our surroundings, and seeking counsel from those who are working here.
Kevin is working as part of the youth ministry team at Galway Christian Fellowship as lead youth worker for two days out of the week. He is also busy getting youth worker training, sussing out prospective youth events and outreaches for the summer, meeting with pastors, and helping plan for Project32—a massive endeavor by YFC Northern Ireland and YFC Ireland to reach youth in all counties of the island in the fall of 2010.

Maureen is putting together the physical layout of the YFC office, helping out with the youth group when possible, managing various communications, and is meeting with a couple of young ladies on a friendship/mentorship basis.

With so much to do we have been blessed to have a local overseeing committee that will give us counsel and hold us accountable to set weekly hours. This committee consists of experienced local pastors, which is a huge benefit to us.

The opportunities are endless, but with your continued prayers and support, we believe God is using us while we are in Ireland to meet some of those needs and that others will be brought in or raised up for the rest.

Blessings in Him,
Kevin & Maureen

Prayer requests
*Adjustment to the differences in culture for the family.
*That we would have vision for what this YFC office should be to best serve the youth and Churches of Galway.
*That God would continue to bring in the monthly supporters needed for us to stay for many years.