Honey Words

Another Year Ended

2009-06-16T19:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends ~

Thank you for praying for me in the final weeks of the spring semester. I experienced God’s abundant supply of grace and strength as I plowed through projects, papers, and final exams. On May 14, I graduated with my Master’s degrees in Student Ministry and Global Leadership.

My family flew in from Nigeria, London, and New York to celebrate with me. Yes, my whole family!!! It was a time for counting blessings. God’s faithfulness to me just blows me away.

The past few weeks have been busy with readjusting, moving, and figuring out “next steps.” I have also been “winding down” the year with my Bible study girls. As you all probably know, the end of this school year marks the end of my second year as an intern with Student Venture. After our annual summer conference, GetAway (June 13-19), my internship will come to an end. What a ride it’s been!

Even though I will no longer be an intern with the ministry, I will continue to volunteer with Student Venture for as long as I am around, until God moves me on to the next assignment. I hope you’ll come along with me :)

I thank you for your support in the past two years. I have felt your prayers, and I have seen God work in a mighty way among Carrollton high school students.

High School Graduation

Several of our student leaders graduated from Newman Smith High School on June 7. We were blessed this year with a core group of students who were committed to serving God on their campus. I would like to highlight three girls from my Bible study who are graduating, and share a little bit about my experiences with them.

Anna

I met Anna at the Newman Smith homecoming game last year. A student introduced her to me and told me she was interested in becoming involved with Student Venture. We exchanged phone numbers and I was amazed by Anna’s initiative when she called me before I had a chance to get in touch with her. We met for coffee shortly after and she explained that although she received Christ in the past couple of years, she had never had any discipleship. I invited Anna to participate in a Bible study and to become involved in our leadership training meetings.

Since that first meeting with Anna, I have seen her grow from shy and uncertain to confident and open. Throughout her senior year, she helped plan and implement outreaches, and helped with recruiting her peers to attend. This past January, during Fastbreak (our annual spring conference) Anna had the opportunity to share her testimony publicly for the first time. Now, she is preparing to move to Tennessee where she will work as a camp counselor, then begin as a freshman at Tennessee State University in the fall. (Anna on the left in the picture).

Kim

I first heard about Kim from a few of my Bible study girls. I learned she was a star basketball player who was friendly and who had recently been seeking to grow in her faith. Soon, I had the opportunity to watch Kim on the court at one of the varsity basketball games at Newman Smith, and I was impressed by her talent. I was even more impressed when Kim began to attend our girls’ Bible study and I discovered she was hungry for God’s word and open to His working in her life. What a gem! I was able to observe Kim’s servant-heart when she offered to host our Bible study in her home for the rest of the year, and unfailingly provided freshly baked treats for us every week! :)

In the short few months I’ve known her, Kim has grown tremendously. She has developed a habit of having quiet times with God, and she is more confident about telling others about her faith.

This fall, Kim will attend Missouri State on a basketball scholarship. She was excited to learn recently that her new roommate is a believer, and she looks forward to serving God on her basketball team.

Natalia

I met Natalia my first week working with Student Venture. I was on a bus with her and 50 other high school students, on our way to Fastbreak ’07. Natalia was only a sophomore, but she struck me as mature and loving. Although she had already received Christ in the past, it was during that Fastbreak that Natalia committed her life to serving the Lord. Since then, I have seen her blossom into a beautiful woman of God.

During her last three years at Newman Smith, Natalia has been active as a leader in Student Venture. Natalia has had many opportunities to share the Gospel and her testimony at outreach events, and has been instrumental in many students coming to know the Lord. For two years, Natalia was the primary leader for the girls’ Bible study, and she discipled many young believers at her school.

In the fall, Natalia will move to Waco, TX to attend Baylor University. She has already contacted Christian ministries at Baylor and is excited to become involved in ministry at her school. Praise God!

I just wanted to share these brief stories with you to give you an idea of the impact you have had on the lives of many, and how the impact will be perpetuated as these girls go off and become disciple-makers at their colleges. We also have several young men from our leadership team who graduated this year, and I am excited to see where God will take them as well. Thank you for your part in growing God’s Kingdom by investing in the lives of these students.

Prayer Requests

Rocky Mountain GetAway

I just returned home a few days early from our annual summer conference, which is currently going on and will conclude on Thursday. Please be in prayer for the 370+ students, as well as the staff and volunteers who are with them this week. God is already working mightily, and this past Sunday, 11 students made decisions to receive Christ. Last night, two girls from Newman Smith shared that they were going to act upon God’s conviction to forgive family members who had hurt them. I know there is so much more that God is going to do in these next few days.

Tomorrow (Wednesday, June 17), the students will be going out to different locations around Boulder and Denver to initiate spiritual conversations with people, and possibly share the Gospel with them. Please pray that the students would be empowered by the Holy Spirit and would go out boldly—taking the initiative and leaving the results to God. Also, ask that hearts would be watered in preparation.

Summer Venture

This summer, students will have the opportunity to learn about God and grow in their faith as they participate in weekly outreach and training events every Monday. Please keep Summer Venture in your prayers and ask that the next few months would be a time for students to be prepared to reach their campuses when school resumes in the fall.

Thank you for all your prayers. Expect another update after GetAway!

Spring is Here!

2009-03-16T09:48:00.000-07:00

"So if you faithfully obey the commands I am giving you today--to love the Lord your God and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul--then I will send rain on your land in its season, both autumn and spring rains so that you may gather in your grain, new wine and oil. I will provide grass in the fields for your cattle, and you will eat and be satisfied." (Deut. 11:13-15).

The month of March has been wonderful! I turned a year older this month, and I had the opportunity to spend time with friends over my Spring break.

I've been thinking about God's provision for His people in these times of economic distress. It's interesting how easy it is to forget that we are dependent on God for everything--for rain, for the seasons, for our grain . . . .It is not until there's a need that we realize we've been counting on our prowess, or our jobs, or the government to provide. I pray you may seek God's face for all your needs as you "serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul" (Deut. 11:13).

First two pictures: Meghan (an SV volunteer) and I visited Brooke (former SV Plano staff) in beautiful Colorado this month. While in Colorado, we visited the famous Celestial Seasonings headquarters (second picture) and tasted almost twenty different flavors of tea! Third picture: Me with friends at the Dallas Arboretum. If you've never been there, just think: A huge flower garden relentlessly pointing to God's creative talent and unfathomable beauty.

Upcoming:
We have our annual March Madness basketball tournament coming up at the end of the month. Typically, the event draws over 100 students who are given the opportunity to have fun and also to hear a testimony and a presentation of the Gospel from one of their peers. Please pray for this month's basketball tourney--scheduled for March 25th. Ask that the Lord would open the hearts of students to receive the Word.

Two prospective Student Venture workers will also be visiting at the end of the month! Ruth, who is from Michigan, is completing Bible college this year and hoping to come onboard with Student Venture as an intern. Jacquelynn is coming in from Arkansas and hopes to join the SV Dallas staff team upon graduation this year. Please pray for a sense of peace and affirmation for them as they seek to obey God's calling on their lives.

GetAway, our summer conference, will be here before we know it. The students have begun recruiting their friends to attend the conference. The students will spend the next few months prayerfully inviting their friends and doing fundraisers to raise support to attend the conference. Please pray that God would provide financially for our students so they will have the opportunity to encounter God in a lasting, dynamic way at GetAway '09.

Thank you for your prayers and your support!

FastBreak Report and More!

2009-02-04T09:45:00.000-08:00

"Apart from Me you can do nothing . . ." John 15:5

In the past several months, God has impressed this verse strongly upon my heart. Apart from Christ, we can do nothing. It is an acknowledgment of utter dependence on God . . . for life and breath, for shelter and bread, in relationships and in ministry. In the weeks preceding FastBreak, recognizing that it is God who brings the change that we so desperately desire, our ministry committed to praying incessantly and specifically for the students who would be attending the conference. Thank you for joining us in prayer! God demonstrated His power to us during FastBreak and we are still rejoicing in the aftermath of the conference . . .

Come and Listen To What He's Done!

Mariah
On the first night of the FastBreak conference, Rani noticed that her friend, Mariah, seemed downcast. Rani had invited Mariah to the conference in hopes that her friend might finally recognize her need for Christ. “I had been talking to her about a relationship with God since our freshman year, but she had never responded,” Rani shares. Now a junior, Mariah was feeling a jumble of emotions on that night of the conference—guilt, low self-worth, incompetence. Rani tried to encourage her and once more prayed her friend would receive Christ. The following night, after the events of the evening were over, Rani noticed that Mariah seemed cheerful. “What’s going on?” Rani asked her friend, and Mariah explained, “I feel more peaceful now.” “What happened? What’s changed?” Rani wanted to know.

Then Mariah said the words Rani had been praying to hear since their freshman year, “I received Christ tonight!”

Rani looks forward to coming alongside Mariah as they finish out basketball season together and graduate together next year.

Yesenia
Yesenia thought she came to FastBreak because it was an opportunity for her to spend time with her older brother, whom she admires. But God had a bigger, eternally significant purpose in mind. On the second night of the conference, as she heard the speaker describe the work of Christ on the cross, and the implications of His sacrifice, Yesenia was struck by a sudden, unprecedented awareness of God’s love for her. After the evening session was over, Jacquelynn, an adult volunteer, found Yesenia crying back in the cabin. Jacquelynn found out that Yesenia had surrendered her life to Christ that evening.

“You know that feeling you get when you’re high [on drugs]?” Yesenia asked, desperately grasping for words to describe what was going on inside of her, “I feel that way right now! I can’t believe I’ve missed out on something so great for so long.”

As Jacquelynn celebrated with her, Yesenia disclosed that she had been making a lot of unhealthy choices in life, and she recognized a need to leave those things behind. Since she returned from FastBreak, Yesenia has asked her mother for forgiveness for wrongs done in the past, and their relationship has taken a new turn for the better. Yesenia has also shared her testimony with her non-Christian friends. “They don’t understand. I really want them to experience what I’ve experienced.” Yesenia has joined a girls’ Bible study and has committed to praying for the salvation of her lost friends.

Jordan
Jordan, a junior at Newman Smith High School, used to identify himself as gay. During the conference, he felt the Holy Spirit’s conviction regarding homosexuality. On the last night of the conference, he sent a text message to another student, Natalie, telling her: “I am no longer gay. I no longer lust for men.”

A few days later, when they returned to school, Natalie happened to walk by as Jordan was telling a student that he is no longer gay. The student laughed at him and said, “That doesn’t just happen.” Natalie heard Jordan affirm that he is no longer in bondage to homosexuality.

That same day, a boy asked a student leader, Rani, “Have you heard that Jordan is no longer gay?” Rani responded, “He was at a conference this past weekend and Jesus changed his life.” Jordan continues to bear witness to how God has changed his life, and he has been the talk of the school since the conference.

Praise God for His faithfulness!

Photos from FastBreak!

Super Bowl Party

Every year, Student Venture hosts a Super Bowl party to which our student leaders are encouraged to invite their non-Christian friends. This year, we packed the house again with over 100 students, many of whom had never been to a Student Venture outreach. During half-time, we gathered the students to listen to a testimony and the Gospel. Caleb, a senior at Newman Smith High School, shared the story of how God delivered him from anger and violent behavior, and Rani, a junior, presented the plan of salvation. Four students received Christ that evening!

Pictures from the Super Bowl Party.

Go, Therefore . . . To Carrollton, and To The World . . .

One of our student leaders, Rani (above, third picture), has been instrumental in leading several of her friends at Newman Smith High to Christ, or encouraging them to grow in their walk with God. Now, in obedience to God's call, she will be taking the Gospel of Christ beyond the borders of Carrollton, TX :) This March, she will have the opportunity to go on a Student Venture international mission trip to Budapest, Hungary, for two weeks. She has also challenged her friend, Hannah (standing next to Rani in the picture, holding the poster) to come along on this mission trip as a next step in her Christian discipleship. Please pray for these young women as they prepare and raise funds to take the Hope of Christ to their peers in Budapest.

Prayer Requests

Ask the Lord to continue to sustain Mariah, Yesenia, and Jordan as they allow Him to continue His work of transformation in their lives.

Pray for our new and previously existing Bible studies, that they would be effective in equipping students to glorify God with their lives and be missionaries at their schools.

Commit our student leaders to God's keeping. Ask that they would not be distracted by the cares of this world, but that they would "fix their eyes on Jesus, the author and the perfecter of their faith."

Thank you for your support and prayers!

Welcome, 2009!

2009-01-12T11:56:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

I hope the holidays were warm and restful for all of you. I heard rumors of snowy days for my friends in Ohio. May I just lovingly share that I've been enjoying a mild winter, with many 60something-degree-and-sunny days. Thanks for your prayers :)

We got off to a running start this January. From the 1st -5th, we took groups of students to the Dallas Winter Conference (DWC)--a conference for CRU, the college ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ Ministries. At the DWC our high school students assisted in providing childcare for children of CRU staff and conference speakers. The opportunity enabled our students to earn scholarship money toward the cost for our upcoming conference, FastBreak. Attending the DWC also gave our high school students a vision for college ministry as they participated in worship sessions, outreach/evangelism, and sharing their testimonies with college students who were interested in working with Student Venture. For my part, I enjoyed visiting with Student Venture alums from the past couple of years who are now involved in ministry at their respective colleges.

FastBreak

FastBreak is just around the corner, and I would like to ask for your prayers as we finalize the details. We currently have around 50 students signed up to attend from our Carrollton high schools. They will be joined by other students from the Dallas area, as well as other Texas cities. I've been observing the students' excitement as the conference approaches, and it's contagious :)

Here are a few prayer points:

That all the students registered to attend the conference will be able to attend, and there would be no hinderance.

That even at this "last minute," we would have more students sign up for this life-changing experience.

Pray for protection on the roads for everyone traveling to the conference venue. Also pray for protection during games and all other activities during the conference.

Pray for all our speakers and seminar leaders, that they would speak boldly, as directed by the Holy Spirit, and that they would be renewed daily throughout the conference.

Pray for open hearts and fertile soil; that as Christ is proclaimed, hearts would receive the words with joy and the planted seeds would take root and bear fruit 30, 60, and 100 fold.

Pray that anyone at the conference who does not know Christ will come to a saving knowledge of Him and will commit to a life-long journey of discipleship in Christ.

Nice weather :)

Pray for the discussion groups--that the leaders (mostly high school and college students) would lead with discernment and genuine love for students in their group. Also pray that the group would be open and loving toward one another, forging a fellowship that will continue when they return to their schools after the conference.

Thanks for joining us with your prayers this weekend. I look forward to sharing testimonies of the Lord's goodness when we return from the conference next week!

He's Always Been So Faithful

2008-12-13T09:18:00.000-08:00

Praise God for His continued faithfulness!

In the month since the last update, we have seen the Lord at work in ways we could not imagine. I am particularly joyful that the Lord has raised up a team of student leaders to carry on the movement in Carrollton and other area high schools. The students have actively planned and carried out outreach events, recruited their peers for the upcoming Fastbreak conference, and spent time praying for their lost friends. God's faithfulness has been evident in the answers to prayer and in the doors that have opened up for ministry at Newman Smith.

Christmas Party Led by Freshman Girls :)

Since November, I have been leading a Bible study for a group of beautiful, eager, freshman girls. In the first week of December, they decided to host a Christmas party as an avenue to let their friends know about the Bible study and about what Student Venture is. We had cookies, pizza, and wassail (my first experience with this particular festive drink). It turned out to be a cold night, and the girls didn't have as many people show up as they had anticipated, but I believe the night was a success. The party was a lot of fun, gave older students the opportunity to minister to the younger ones, and gave the freshman girls a chance to demonstrate their leadership skills. I'm so proud of the girls for taking the initiative.

L-R: Two leadership students telling the group about upcoming events; Twin sisters! (freshman girls); make leadership student (Caleb) explaining the crowdbreaker game.

December Student-Led Outreach Event

Early in December, we had a student-planned, student led outreach--an ultimate frisbee tournament. Familiar with the sport? Some have described it as "football with a frisbee minus the tackling." Works for me :) The Lord granted us favor with the high school football coach, and he gave us permission to use the football field for the event. Also, at the last minute, we discovered we needed a staff sponsor from the high school to be present during the outreach, and God raised up for us a teacher who had not previously been involved with Student Venture. She not only stayed for the duration of the frisbee tournament, but offered to make herself available whenever we need a sponsor! Praise God!

FastBreak Update

It's exciting to see what God's doing as we prepare for Fasbreak. So far, we have more than forty students from Carrollton signed up to attend the conference. They'll be joined at the conference by students from Frisco, Plano, and other cities in Texas for a time of renewal and training in discipleship. Last Friday was the last day of school, and we had a celebratory/informational party to give students an opportunity to hear more about Fastbreak and meet students who will be at the conference.

Prayer Requests

The Lord has continued to impress upon the hearts of the SV Dallas staff how essential prayer is to the ministry. I am thankful for your faithfulness in praying for us. I wish you could see for yourselves how students' lives are being changed in answer to our prayers. I trust that God will show up and surprise us with awesome works this coming year as we continue to look to Him as the only Source of strength. As we anticipate the new year, please lift these requests up to God:

That we would be faithful to the work He's called us to do.
That the freshman girls I'm currently discipling will grow in confidence and allow themselves to be used by God in leadership roles.
That the Lord would bring many, many students to Fastbreak in January, and that the students lives will be transformed in a way that will bring revival to Dallas.
That I, specifically, would draw strength from the Lord and not grow weary in my service to Him.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

It's that time again!!! I pray it's a season of joy and peace for you as we celebrate the birth of Christ. As you unwrap Christmas gifts, also allow the Holy Spirit to reveal more of the Ultimate Gift to you. I pray you know Him this year in a deep, meaningful way. God bless!!!

Wow! What a Month!

2008-11-08T10:38:00.000-08:00

You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance. The grasslands of the desert overflow; the hills are clothed with gladness. (Psalm 65:11-12)

The past month was full of fun, festivities, and God's faithfulness. In the midst of homecoming events, jello food fights, and sand volleyball, I repeatedly saw God's hand at work.

Homecoming Week at Newman Smith

Mum-Ma-Mia!
There's an interesting phenomenon that I'm pretty sure is unique to Texas (or maybe the South?) It's called a mum. By that, I don't mean a nurturing female or a silent pantomime. Let me 'splain ;) Every year, as high school students in Texas prepare for homecoming, they exchange mums with one another to demonstrate support, appreciation, and school spirit. The word mum is derived from "crysanthemum," which is the centerpiece of these moderately ostentatious-looking creations. The students wear them well, though--the girls usually pin the mums to the front of their shirts, and the guys wear smaller mums as a corsage around their arms. A few Texas belles allowed me to take pictures of them during their lunch period.

Homecoming Game
I attended the Newman Smith homecoming game with other Student Venture adult workers/volunteers, and we had a great time cheering for the great Trojans (who won the game, by the way!) We also enjoyed the parade of the homecoming court nominees, which interestingly, included several Student Venture kids. One of our student leaders was crowned
homecoming queen for her class, much to the joy of several of her peers whose lives she has
blessed in many ways. What can I say, God's beauty radiates from the inside out!

Also, at the homecoming game, the Lord orchestrated a divine appointment for me with a female student at Newman Smith. This student has since become actively involved with the ministry and is eager to be discipled :)

Top Row L-R: Catching a break with a few students during half-time (note Tina's mum); Natalia (a student leader) with her saxophone across her lap, waiting in the wings until it's time for the band to perform; Mama Rucker and Meghan, two invaluable Student Venture volunteers, cheering for the green and gold!!!

Bottom Row: Me schmoozing with celebrities :)

Outreach Events
JelloFest '08

By now, you are probably familiar with JelloFest, one of our favorite outreach events. The students never tire of this giant, messy food fight. After rescheduling twice, we finally held JelloFest on October 22. The outreach was planned and carried out by student leaders. We had about twelve new students show up for the outreach, and they had the opportunity to hear the gospel and meet their Christian peers.

Volleyball Tournament
On Wednesday the 5th, we had our November outreach, a high-intensity-level volleyball tournament. Boy, are high school kids competitive! We spent three days recruiting teams and building excitement for the tournament, and two local churches partnered with us to provide the facility/equipment and spiritual support. The Holy Smokers (http://www.holysmokers.org/) came out and grilled free hot dogs and hamburgers for everyone. Overall we had more twelve teams play and more than 120 students show up for the event!! Once again, student leaders had the opportunity to share the gospel and their testimonies, seven students indicated that they had received Christ. Praise the Lord!!! Although the free food and fun volleyball game were appealing, it is God who draws us to repentance.

The winning team had the honor (and rigorous test of skill) of playing a formidable line-up of girls on the high school varsity tean (including one star volleyball alumnus of Newman Smith :P).

So, thank you for praying for us!!! Through your prayers, the Gospel is being proclaimed, hearts are being set free, and God is being glorified at Newman Smith and environs. The Lord also continues to open doors for us to gain a foothold on the campus in a day when there's strong opposition to Christian influence in schools. Please continue to pray that we would march forward in the name of Christ.

Pray for us to be able to properly follow up with students who just received Christ, and those who are interested in becoming involved in this Movement to make Him known to every high school student on every campus.

As you look ahead to the holidays, and experience the reality of a new economic and social climate, be assured that your God is strong and mighty.

The Lord will guide you always; He will satify your needs in
a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a
well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. (Isaiah 58:11).

I pray this Scripture for you by faith. Amen!!!

October Newsletter

2008-10-06T11:17:00.000-07:00

"At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, 'I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.' " (Luke 10:21).

Jesus said these words when seventy-two of His disciples returned from the "harvest field" rejoicing because God had worked through them as they proclaimed the Kingdom. I shared Jesus' joy and echoed His words after the Volleyball Team Mystery Dinner three Wednesdays ago. Jenna, a sophomore JV, volleyball player , and Rani, a junior, varsity volleyball player, shared a personal testimony and gave a Gospel presentation (respectively). It was each girl's first time proclaiming God's Kingdom in front of a crowd, and 8 of their teammates received the gift of salvation!!! You know there was beaucoup partying in heaven among the angels that night :)

Mystery Dinner!!!
Needless to say, the Mystery Dinner was wonderful. There were about 30 attendees and delightful chaos as the girls selected their three-course meals from encrypted menus. The girls were given one minute to make selections from a 12-item menu, which, unknown to them, included food items as well as utensils. Upperclassmen girls and top-notch butlers were assigned to serve two or three girls for the evening. It was quite hilarious to see some of the girls' faces as their servers showed up with a "course" that included a mint, a toothpick, and lasagna, or a fork, a cup of lemonade, and an ice cream sundae. They came up with some pretty creative ways to eat their meals without silverware (or with the wrong type). You really had to be there to capture the excitement, but since you couldn't be there, we captured it for you on camera! :-D

After the meal, the girls had the opportunity to gather in groups and share responses to questions related to their spirituality, their views of life, and their views of God. The activity prepared the girls' hearts to listen to Jenna's testimony and Rani's Gospel presentation.

L - R: Happy freshman girls. . . before they saw the menu!; Able servers ready to go!; "Who ordered the salad with a side of toothpick and napkin?"; Butler line-up - Caleb, Todd, and Chris.

Blackmail photos!!! :-D

L - R: Jenna sharing her testimony with the group; Rani giving a Gospel presentation.

Bible Studies
We had our first volleyball team Bible study tonight with a handful of girls. We talked about assurance of salvation, looking through Scriptures together for God's promises to those who receive Him.

Last week, a freshman girl on the school drill team told me she would be interested in hosting a Bible study in her home, so this Wednesday, Lord willing, we will begin another girls' Bible study!
Two new boys' Bible studies have also begun since our leadership retreat in September. Daniel, a student who received discipleship training last year, felt a desire to bear fruit by ministering to the academically gifted students at his school, and he has begun a Bible study in his home. Another student, Cameron, committed to ministering to his cross country teammates, and he has also begun a Bible study in his home.

See You at the Pole
September 24th was "See You at The Pole," a day when students across the nation gather around the flag pole at their school to pray. This year, Student Venture students helped to lead the event at Newman Smith. It was incredible to see the number of students who showed up at 6:30 a.m. to pray for their school and for the nation.

L - R: A group of early risers gathered to pray; Kevin leading the group in worship songs.

Prayer Requests
On Wednesday, October 15, we will have our first outreach for the year . . . (drumrolls, please) . . . JELLOFEST. It promises to be a messy time, with (you guessed it!) lots of jello flying around. The outreach events are opportunities to gather groups of students for a time of fun, and to make the Gospel of Christ known to them in a non-threatening environment. Please pray that there would be a good turn out and that the students who will be sharing a personal testimony or the Gospel would be filled with boldness by the power of the Holy Spirit. Pray also for "fertile soil" in the hearts of those who attend, that they would be receptive to the Word.

Fastbreak is coming up in a few months. It is a conference during Martin Luther King weekend (January 16-19) at which students are equipped for a life of discipleship. Conferences have historically been momentum builders in the ministry, as hearts are transformed through seminars, anointed speakers, and personal time with God. Please begin to pray now about what God is going to do in the lives of the students. So far, 25 students from Newman Smith have signed up to attend!

My Prayer for You!
Thank you all again for your encouragement, support, and prayers. In these times of economic, political, and social uncertainty, may you be steadfastly assured that the Sovereign, Ominipotent God is in control. May He continually reveal Himself to you as Provider, Healer, Shepherd, and Protector.

September Newsletter

2008-09-12T14:35:00.000-07:00

"He must become greater; I must become less" John 3:30

This past Saturday, two friends from my small group at church got married. I had to drive close to an hour to get to the chapel, and along the way, I had to stop to buy batteries for my camera and gas for my car. So, by the time I arrived at the church, I was running late. The time was 1:59 p.m., one minute until the ceremony was scheduled to start. I could hear music as I walked down the hallway to the chapel, so I quickened my pace. Just as I approached the door, the music stopped, and I walked in to find all heads turned toward me, anticipating the entry of the bridal train. Sorry to disappoint, I’m not the bride…Not even on the bridal train. Just a tardy guest, please ignore me. I apologetically walked a short way down the aisle and took my seat among friends—one of whom turned to me and said jokingly, “Trying to steal the show, Simi?”

Mildly embarrassing experience :)

I was reflecting the other day on how we sometimes “try to steal God’s show,” showing up in entryways when heads are turned in expectation for help. Describing his role in accomplishing God’s plan, John the Baptist gave the analogy of a groom’s attendant who “waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom's voice” (John 3:28). John acknowledged that his calling was fulfilled in pointing the way to Jesus Christ, and it was his joy to hear people say to him, “[The One] you testified about—well…everyone is going to him” (John 3:26). I have been praying that in all I do and say as I disciple students, I would not seek to draw attention to myself, but rather, point people to Jesus.

He must become greater; I must become less.

Updates!

Leadership Retreat
We started out the school year with a leadership retreat for students over Labor Day weekend. The retreat was by invitation only, and we had thirteen students attend from Carrollton and Plano (a neighboring city). Students were challenged to commit to living from an eternal perspective, and to invest their lives in the three eternal things: God, His Word, and People. Students left the retreat with their hearts renewed and with plans to live out the year with an eternal perspective.

(photos from the leadership retreat)

Mystery Dinner
We only had one girl able to come to the retreat from Carrollton. She shared with me that she had been reluctant to come when she found out she would be the only girl from her school. Praise God she came, because she left the retreat with a desire to reach her volleyball team for Christ. In pursuit of this desire, I have come alongside her to plan a Mystery Dinner for the freshman volleyball team. The dinner will be a time of fun and team bonding, and also a time for Christian girls on the Junior Varsity and Varsity volleyball teams to share their testimonies and the Gospel, and to invite the younger girls to become involved in discipleship.

Open Doors
God continues to grant us favor with the coaches and administrative staff at Newman Smith High School. Two days ago we had the opportunity to gather all the volleyball teams for a mini “team talk” during practice hours. We invited a former varsity volleyball player and Student Venture leader, Sasha, whom a lot of the girls had looked up to while she attended Newman Smith. Sasha talked briefly about her experiences as a high school student, and she got the girls excited about Student Venture. A girl on the Junior Varsity team stood and invited the freshman girls to the Mystery Dinner we’re planning for them.
I look forward to other opportunities to partner with the staff at Newman Smith to reach the students for Christ.

Prayer Requests

Pray that the Mystery Dinner, scheduled for next Wednesday (September 17th), will go smoothly (we’re still trying to determine an ideal location!), and that it will be an avenue for the freshman volleyball girls to become involved a Bible study this year.

Pray for wisdom in reaching other “target groups” at Newman Smith High School. This year, I am praying about getting a few freshman girls Bible studies going, as well as continuing discipleship with upperclassmen. Leadership students have indicated a desire to reach the peers on the basketball, volleyball, and cross-country teams, and to begin Bible studies with these and other groups.

Continue to come alongside us in prayer that students will keep their eyes on the goal and not be sidetracked this year by myriad distractions that surround them.

Please Pray for Orissa!!!

2008-08-28T18:55:00.000-07:00

I just received an email from a ministry I have been supporting, called Gospel for Asia (GFA), about the carnage that is going on in Orissa, India. Some news reports say as many as 16 Christians have been killed, and KP Yohannan, founder of GFA, says the lives of hundreds of other Christians are at risk. I'd like to invite you all to join in prayer for our Christian brothers and sisters in that region of the world.

You may visit this link to watch KP Yohannan talk about what's been going on: http://www.gfa.org/orissa-video?cm_mmc=GFA-_-Email-_-377991-_-080828-Churches

August Newsletter

2008-08-09T11:03:00.000-07:00

It's August already, and the end of summer is in sight. What a full summer it has been! Here are some updates:

Summer Venture

What a fun time I've had with the summer ministry. Getting knocked down while attempting to tag a buffed-up teenage dude during a game of Flag Football . . . watching students and staff attack each other with jello during JelloFest (yep. I was conveniently occupied during that one) . . . hearing students ask random strangers at the mall, "Are you the Blue Lagoo?" (Long story . . . one of those "you had to be there to appreciate it" kinda things). Besides the fun, it was great to interact with students in a more casual environment and to watch them grow as they had the opportunity to share the gospel or their life testimonies with a group of their peers.

I have included a selection of photos from Summer Venture outreach events for your viewing pleasure.

Top Row (L-R): A group of Carrollton girls at the Stonebriar Mall, where we had our Human Scavenger Hunt (The Blue Lagoo); Two bums we brought off the streets . . .oh, wait, never mind. That's Brooke and Jeremy, SV staff, in their disguise (they were impostors of the Blue Lagoo); Me (shouldn't be hard to recognize) posing with Lauri (the actual Blue Lagoo) and Katy, who's also on staff with SV.

Bottom Row (L-R): Plano, Frisco and Carrollton girls in all their glory after throwing jello at one another; Me and a student from Carrollton at a pool party; Jordan (during a gospel presentation) using a skit to demonstrate how God reached down to us.

Personal Growth

God has been taking me through a personal lesson on Grace--the extent of it; the beauty of it. Grace is a word I have been so familiar with, particularly in the past few years. Each time I share the gospel, I quote Ephesians 2:8:

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast."

The wonderful truth is--we are not only saved, but also sustained through grace. Isn't that great? I forget this sometimes, and I find myself focusing on "doing" things for God instead of just resting in His grace (kind of like Martha in the Bible). I recently read somewhere that rather than trying to do things for God, we should be allowing Him do His work through us.

Hope some of this makes sense to you because it's been making me excited lately :)

Prayer Requests

I need your prayers in earnest as we prepare to select and challenge potential student leaders for the coming school year. More and more, the Enemy seems to be throwing in distractions in the way of high school students to keep them from being committed to living for Christ. Please pray thay we would be able to help students consider their priorities from an eternal perspective.
Please pray for wisdom for me to be discerning in selecting faithful, available, and teachable girls to disciple for the next year. This is essential for spiritual multiplication.
Our final Summer Venture outreach is this Monday. Please pray that many students would come to know the Lord, be challenged to make Christ known, and commit to living for Him once school resumes.

That's all for now, folks :) My love and prayers are with you all. Please let me know if there is anything specific I can agree with you about in prayer.

To Live is Christ!!!

(Philippians 1:21)

Summer in Texas

2008-07-11T12:12:00.000-07:00

Hot!!!

That is the word that best describes summer in Texas.

But we're having our fun and staying hydrated. I hope you all had a good July Fourth weekend. I had a packed weekend, myself, complete with an Oklahoma-style celebration and three fireworks displays. The picture on the right shows me with my friend, Jillian, whose family hosted me for a July 4th neighborhood potluck in Oklahoma. Jillian and I were 3rd runners up for the annual games (think sack races, three-legged races, and crab-walks). I don't know if you can tell from the picture, but our trophy has a sheep at its apex. Hey, it's Oklahoma :)

We have had a few weeks of our summer ministry, Summer Venture, and it has been exciting to meet new students and to watch student leaders grow as they participate in ministry this summer. Every Monday, we have an outreach (planned largely by students) at which students get to have fun with one another and hear the gospel presented by one of their peers. Last Monday, I participated in a game of Capture the Flag with about 40 students, and two days later, as I shuffled around on sore limbs, the phrase, "suffering for Christ" took on new meaning :) Actually, it was not that bad. The picture on the left shows Cameron, a senior, sharing the gospel at the last Monday outreach.

The picture next to it shows "Team Yellow" getting ready for a game of "Capture the Flag."

Praise!

I'm thankful that I was able to visit with my parents in the last week of June. I enjoyed being "spoiled" by them. The picture on the left shows me with my mom (I was only able to get half of my my face in. But you know what I look like). And on the right, that's me with my dad. The good looks run in the family :)

Prayer Requests

Pray that the summer ministry will be fruitful--that students will be trained in being missionaries to their peers, that many would come into a relationship with Jesus Christ, and that we would disciple these students toward a life-long commitment to God.
As we look ahead to a new school year, pray that God would grant us wisdom in selecting and discipling student leaders who will be ambassadors for Christ on their campuses next year.
Pray for God to equip me with all the skills, knowledge, and grace I need to accomplish the task He has called me to do as I prepare to begin a new year of ministry.

SPECIAL UPDATE

2008-07-11T12:07:00.000-07:00

In 2007, I joined the mission field with Student Venture, first as a volunteer, then as an intern once I had raised sufficient financial support. August 15th will mark the end of my year-long internship, which you committed to support through prayer, monthly pledges, or one-time contributions. Thank you very much for your encouragement and support. In the year since we have partnered together in ministry, God’s name has been glorified and His Kingdom advanced among high school students in Carrollton, Texas and environs.

As we came to the end of this past school year, I thought about what God had accomplished through the ministry. Reflecting on these victories, I realized how thrilled I was to have been a part of it, and how much I want to continue to be a part of God’s work at Newman Smith High School and in Carrollton. I have been invited to continue in ministry with Student Venture for one more school year, and after seeking God’s face in prayer, I am convinced that this is the direction He would have me take at this time.

I would like to invite you to stay onboard with me by continuing to pray for the ministry and by continuing to give monthly and/or one-time financial gifts as I minister to high school students in the 2008/2009 school year. You can also help me by giving me references for your friends, relatives, or acquaintances who may be interested in supporting me as an intern with Student venture. Thank you again for joining me to make disciples for Christ!

Back in Texas!

2008-06-22T13:48:00.000-07:00

And . . . we're back in Texas! What a trip!

The bus ride back from Colorado seemed to go by much more quickly than the drive to Colorado. I must confess, I slept for most of it. I've been "counting blessings" since I returned home. As I shared in a previous note, we had several students from Carrollton accept Christ into their hearts or recommit themselves to Him at the conference. I look forward to what God is going to do in their lives and through them as we continue the process of discipleship.

I'll keep you updated on the summer discipleship events. In the mean time, enjoy these photos from Colorado :)

Photos:

Top Row (L-R): Mike Donehey (Tenth Avenue North); Beautiful mountain scenery (courtesy of Dave Bryant); Tenth Avenue North (the band that led us in worship for the whole week, and led our hearts to the foot of the cross. One student shared that as she sang the song "Let It Go" along with the band, God worked to break the unforgiveness she had been carrying in her heart. Praise God for a Christian band that makes it a priority to glorify God and speak the truth of His Word!)

Bottom Row (L-R): Danny, Rani, Natalia, Dave, Cameron, Jevarcus (after climbing Bear Lake); Pretty picture (courtesy of Dave).

News From Colorado!

2008-06-17T14:31:00.000-07:00

We've been here three days in Estes Park, nestled in the beautiful Rocky Mountains of Colorado, and God has been at work! On the first night of our arrival, one of our Carrollton students accepted Christ for the first time, and three others rededicated their lives to Christ :) This set the stage for what has been a learning experience--watching God at work in the lives of students.

When Jesus told his disciples how difficult it would be for the rich man to enter heaven, they cried out in consternation, "Who then can be saved?"

I am afraid I often fall into the same error of despair when I observe high school students, listen to their stories, needs, and hurts. I am reminded of the evil forces of this world that are fighting for their souls, and I feel momentary panic: How in the world will these students ever choose Christ in the face of all these allurements?

Then comes the reassuring answer:

"With man, this is impossible, but with God, all things are possible" (John 19:26).
Praise the Lord!!!

Please continue to pray for the conference, and specifically for the following:

Pray that the Holy Spirit would break every barrier or distraction in the lives of the students, and they would be receptive to what God is doing.

A few of the students have expressed anxiety about not being able to maintain their commitment to God once they return home to the issues they've been away from this week. Pray that God would begin to prepare Christian friends, understanding parents, supportive churches, to come alongside the students and help them in their walk with God.

Pray for God's continued protection over all the students and staff.

Thanks for being an important part of this life-changing week!

What's So Special About June?

2008-06-12T20:23:00.000-07:00

A lot.

My mom just left after a week-long visit, and I'll be rejoining with her and my dad in New York later this month! For those of you who know how rarely I get to see my folks, you understand how excited I've been :)

A few students who have been a part of our ministry would also call this month special--they graduated from high school almost a week ago! To the glory of God, they all graduated in the top percentile of their class. One of our student-leaders, Dave, was among the graduands. He had the opportunity to share the gospel with his classmates one last time at a baccalaureate service the week before. He will be helping to lead the Student Venture summer ministry and he is eager to continue his ministry in college this fall.

One more reason this month is so special is GetAway, the incredible, life-changing conference you've been praying about alongside hundreds of Student Venture ministry partners around the world. We'll be leaving for Colorado tomorrow to join students from around the country to worship God and grow as spiritual leaders. Students will have the opportunity to attend electives that will provide the training they need to be missionaries on their campuses. They will also participate in recreation activities, quiet times, prayer, small group discussions, and, in some cases, leadership roles during the conference. Most importantly, students will have the opportunity to accept Christ into their lives for the first time!

Prayer Requests

Please intercede on behalf of students who do not know Christ who will be attending the conference. Ask that this week will be a time of DIVINE APPOINTMENT for them.
Pray for protection for those of us traveling on the bus, and those traveling by air; ask for safe travel to and from the conference.
Pray that this would be a time of personal retreat for me; that I would make time to "be still" with God in this beautiful mountainous place.
For balance, wisdom, and properly-aligned priorities for me in this busy month.

I will try to keep you posted while I am in Colorado.

"Where can I go from your Spirit?

Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there;

if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn,

if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me,

your right hand will hold me fast. . ."

Psalm 139:7-10

Thank you for continuing to uphold me with prayer and with encouraging words. May you always experience God's abiding presence, no matter how far away you think you are from Him.

May Update

2008-05-09T15:58:00.000-07:00

Is this not the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke . . . .Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter . . . . and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday(Isaiah 58:6,7).

He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God (Micah 6:8).

In the past year, God has continued to impress upon my heart His passion for the needy, and the role He expects believers to play in meeting needs in His Name. I have been blown away by the intensity of God's feelings about this. Over and over again, throughout Scripture, God demonstrates His righteous wrath toward those who inflict injustice, and His earnest desire for His body of believers to be vanguards of peace and altruism. God not only desires it; He commands it.

As my mother said to me out of the blue a couple of weeks ago during a telephone conversation. "Simi, give. Don't wait until you have a lot; give now from whatever little you have." I think this applies not only to material giving, but to "spending ourselves" on the behalf of others by giving time, encouragement, love . . . even when we don't have a lot of these commodities, ourselves. Seeking ways to obey God in this has been a joyous experience for me!

In the time since I began writing this particular blog, I found out that my dear cousin, one of my greatest "spiritual heroes", passed away. He was a partner in ministry, and he was instrumental in affirming me when I had doubts about being called to ministry. I pause now to reflect on his life and his love for God. My "Uncle Philip" is an example of a man who spent himself on behalf of others, and he encouraged me to do the same. "Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest as they lie in death" (Isaiah 57:2).

Gearing Up for Summer
In a few weeks, high school students in the Dallas area will be out of school for the summer. This summer, Student Venture Dallas will be inaugurating a summer-long ministry initiative called "Summer Venture". We will kick off with GetAway, our summer conference in Colorado, and continue through the summer with metro-wide outreach events, Bible studies, and one-on-one discipleship. I look forward to what God is going to do this summer.

Please Pray . . .

That God will be sovereign over all our upcoming end-of-school-year activities.
Next Monday, students will have the opportunity to bring their friends who are "seeking" to CiCi's pizza after school and participate in sharing the gospel of Christ with them. Ask that God will open up hearts to receive Him.
We will be having a GetAway pre-party to next Friday to spur enthusiasm for the summer conference. It will be a time for students going to the conference from different cities to meet one another, and for those who have not committed to attend to be convinced, if God wills for them to attend.

Thank you for your friendship and partnership in ministry. I am grateful to God for all of you! God bless you.

April Update

2008-04-07T17:52:00.000-07:00

"As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease." Genesis 8:22

I've got to be honest--I am really glad God threw "heat" into the mix. I'm relishing these 82-degree Texas spring days; plus--the interesting phenomena of bluebonnet-covered lawns is keeping me amused.

It's been a busy and eventful month since I last wrote. There were quite a few celebrations: I turned a quarter-of-a-century on March 10th. I am enjoying being twenty-five. Easter was also a wonderful time of celebration with friends; we rejoiced together over what God did for us through His Son. At the end of March, I had the double-joy of attending the wedding of two dear friends, Laura and Matthew.

On the ministry front, I'm still loving the opportunity to disciple young ladies through weekly Bible studies. Last Wednesday, we held our annual March Madness Basketball Tournament at Newman Smith High School. It was a well attended outreach, with a personal testimony and a gospel presentation given by students.

There were three new decisions for Christ and many indications of interest in becoming a part of Student Venture :) The next couple of weeks will be spent following up with these students who have just begun or are seeking to grow in their relationship with God.

Summer will be here before we know it. Recruiting for the summer conference, GetAway, has been going wonderfully well--praise God! So far, more than twenty students have signed up . . . and counting.

Prayer Requests

I would appreciate your prayers for the girls I am currently discipling through Bible studies. As they continue to seek to grow in their faith, the enemy has been on the attack with stress, discouragement, and temptations in their personal lives. Praise God that we are overcomers, in Christ! Please pray for the continued realization of victory in the lives of the students.

Please pray for God to direct my steps and my words as I follow up with a few students this week. Pray that I will be able to clearly explain what a relationship with Christ means in their lives, and that they will be interested in continuing one-on-one and group discipleship.

March Newsletter

2008-03-08T10:31:00.000-08:00

March already!

It's been an interesting month since I last wrote. Particularly in the past week, the weather has been erratic -- sultry heat one day, and snow the next :)

I am enjoying getting to know the girls in the Freshman Girls and Sophomore Girls Bible studies that got started in January. As I shared in a previous newsletter, the girls are at so many different levels in their relationship with God. Some are from non-Christian backgrounds; some just received Christ/rededicated their lives to Him in the past couple of months; and some are growing Christians. One thing is common to them all-- they are all hungry for spiritual things.
I have been reminded over and over again not to rely on my own understanding; to step back sometimes and allow God to work on the hearts of the students since He knows their needs better than I do.

Sometime in early April, we will be having a "March Madness" basketball tournament as an outreach. It has been a very fruitful outreach in the past, and we are excited about this year's event. The tournament is usually held in the gym at Newman Smith High School. Teams sign up to compete about a week or two in advance, and about 120 or more students gather on the selected day to play or to cheer. During "half-time", SV student leaders share their testimonies and give a gospel presentation.

We are also gearing up for Getaway, a summer conference in Colorado (June 14-20). You may remember my report on last year's Getaway conference. It is exciting to see students who received Christ at the conference last year actively recruiting their friends and classmates to come and experience God this summer. We held one informational "Pre-Party" last Monday, and we hope to hold another one sometime in April. Our first fundraiser for the conference is on March 29th --the students will be sponsored to build a house for a single mother and her daughter!

Please pray about the events we have coming up, and also pray for the new Bible studies (there are also a couple of new boys' Bible studies). I particularly want to request prayer for three freshman girls who have not yet accepted Christ, but are searching; ask that God would break through barriers and reveal Himself to them.
I would also appreciate your prayers for focus, patience, and energy as God continue's to unfold His plans in His own ways and in His own timing. I'm glad to be a part of what God is doing, and I'm glad you're a part of it as well!

February Update

2008-02-14T09:30:00.001-08:00

"Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends" - Jesus (John 15:13).

I asked the freshman girls in my Bible study yesterday in what ways they have demonstrated love toward others, or had love demonstrated toward them. One girl shared that her mother had changed her mind about an initial decision to abort her. Another girl said her father had left his country and his loved ones to be with his family in the United States. One girl said her dog shows its love by licking her face :)

Together, we looked at Paul's exhortation in Romans 12 to give ourselves to God as "living sacrifices"--in essence, to place our lives on the altar for His use. When we do so, honoring God and honoring others above ourselves (v.10), God blesses us and enables us to participate in that great love which involves laying down one's life for friends. The ultimate expression of love was exemplified by Christ and is manifested in many ways, including serving others, encouraging others, giving, and blessing (vv. 7-21), in those who have placed themselves on the altar of sacrifice.

The freshman girls were awed by the reminder of how Jesus demonstrated His love; they were equally amazed that God can use them to love in like manner as they offer themselves as living sacrifices.

Praise Reports

I apologize for the tardiness of this particular report: God answered our prayers for Fastbreak beyond my wildest dreams! (Picture on right: Recreation at Fastbreak). The conference was life-changing for the 50+ students and volunteers who went from Carrollton. One student received Christ, several recommitted their lives to Him, and many had the opportunity to share their faith and lead others to receive Christ for the first time. Upon our return to Carrollton, a few students indicated a desire to begin a Bible study, so 3 new Bible studies have resulted from the Fastbreak conference. Staff members and volunteers have received calls from parents who are excited by the change they see in the lives of their children. And this is only the beginning!

Still riding on the momentum from Fastbreak, the students invited their friends to a Superbowl party on February 2nd. Students Dave, Jordan, Natalia, and RJ shared their testimonies and the gospel and six students prayed to accept Christ into their hearts! Jordan was sharing his testimony for the first time. He is one of the students who received Christ at the Getaway conference last summer, and this year, he saw his friend receive Christ at Fastbreak :) Oh, the joy of "mulitplication"!

Prayer Requests

Please pray that God will continue His work of transformation in the lives of the students who accepted Christ or recommitted their lives to Him at Fastbreak.
Pray that the Bible studies will not grow stagnant, but they will be training grounds for the students to equip them as laborers who will go out and disciple others.

One of the leadership students who graduated last year recently found out that her 27 year-old sister was diagnosed with a terminal illness, and has been given one more year to live. We are trusting God for healing and resting in the promise that He "works all things for the good of those who are called according to His purpose." Please join us in prayer.

A Great Start to the New Year!

2008-01-15T14:52:00.000-08:00

It's already 15 days into the New Year, and they've been exciting days for Student Venture!Three days from today, we will be leaving for our winter conference, Fastbreak.

About two months ago, I asked you to join our student leaders as they set a goal to take a group of 50 students from Carrollton to the conference. Praise the Lord--He has answered our prayers! To date, we have 51 students registered for the conference from Carrollton . . . and counting!

The picture shows some of the students who will be attending at an informational party we held in December.

The most exciting part of it all is that about half of those attending have never previously been to a Student Venture conference, and several of the students have not made a decision to receive Christ.

Prayer Requests

We covet your prayers as the conference approaches. We know it will be a time of refreshing and recreation for the students, but more than anything, we desire--

the lost come to know the Savior who gave His life for them.
that the lukewarm be revived in their faith.
that the weary receive strength from God to continue as laborers in His vineyard.
that all the students attending will return to their campuses in and around Texas to make disciples of their classmates.

Please, also pray for the staff, interns and volunteers at the conference:

that we will be strengthened as we serve the students.
that this will be a time of personal spiritual growth for each of us.
that we would glorify God through all the seminars, prayer sessions, Bible studies, and other activities at the conference.

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-23T10:35:00.000-08:00

Although it's been said many times, many ways:
A Ku Odun Keresimesi! Merry Christmas!

This Christmas, I have thought a lot about the greeting,"Merry Christmas." As I wrote Christmas cards this year, and as I responded to seasons greetings from cashiers, and friends, and Salvation Army ring-a-bell-ers, I couldn't help wonder what exactly what we mean when we say "Merry Christmas." The words conjure up red and green, candy canes and a pot-bellied Santa.

The angels who heralded the first Christmas used these words:

"Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger . . . Glory to God in the
highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."
(Luke 2:10-14)
I have decided to memorize this greeting and use it in lieu of "Merry Christmas" from now on. Okay, maybe not. But I do pray for myself and for all of you that as we share Christmas greetings, we may be filled with joy by the incredible Gift of a Savior; and we may look beyond the manger and marvel at the cross on which the gift was completed.

"Merry Christmas," "Joyeux Noel," "E ku Odun,"--whichever way you say it or hear it said, I pray the words bring you joy, fill your heart with peace, and cause you to glorify God by proclaiming the gift of His Son to the world.

December "Mini" Update

2007-12-05T10:43:00.000-08:00

"For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died." 2 Corinthians 5:14

It's been a busy, busy, busy month! But, praise God, it's also been a very fruitful month. We got a new Bible study off the ground. Last Friday, I sat down with four students invlolved in orchestra and co-led a Bible study for them with Brent, one of the students. (I was excited to observe his understanding of God's Word and His love).

I also had the joy of following up with six girls who attended the orchestra outreach last month. I had lunch with them at separate times; I learned a little bit about their current spiritual stance and where they want to go, spiritually. They were all at different levels--a couple of them still not sure if they want to follow Christ, one a new Christian (she received Christ at the outreach), and a couple of them presently struggling in their walk with God. Please pray that God would give me and other Student Venture laborers the wisdom and discernment to guide these students in their walk with Him.

God took me this past week to revisit 2 Corinthians 3:12-5:21. These were passages of Scripture that God placed on my heart two years ago when I first recognized He was calling me to ministry. It was so encouraging to be reminded that it is GOD'S LOVE compelling us to bring his gospel to the lost, and it is GOD working through us as His ministers--clay vessels though we may be.

I will send another newsletter this month--God willing--to recap the end-of-year events and share with you testimonies of God's work at Newman Smith High School and in Carrollton. Please keep me in your prayers as I prepare for my finals!! Also, pray for our leadership students as God continues to lead them to invite their friends for our January conference (FastBreak). They prayed to God to fill a whole bus with their friends/classmates (that would be 50 students) and they have 28 students signed up so far!

Thank you for your continued prayers--they are working! I'm also grateful to those of you who gave additional financial gifts this past month. God bless you all, and I'll write again soon. For now, I'm going to study! :)

Giving Thanks

2007-11-08T09:30:00.000-08:00

"Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever" Psalm 106:1

"Pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18

Happy November, friends!

Thanksgiving Day is just around the corner. You and I know that our gratitude to God is not limited to one day or one month in the year, but while we have "thankfulness" on our minds this month, I'd like to dedicate this update to thanking God for His goodness and His faithfulness.

In the past month, I grieved with dear friends who lost a son and brother; I rejoiced over a young girl who received new life in Christ. I reached across and held the hands of a woman in jail whose heart was aching because she had lost a son during her time of incarceration; I shared the joy of a friend who delivered a beautiful baby boy . . . .So much has happened in one month, and none without the knowledge of the One by whose hands all creation was formed.

As I read Psalm 136 a few days ago, I smiled as it dawned on me that the Hand that "struck down great kings . . .and killed mighty kings (verses 17,18) is the same Hand that "gives food to every creature" (verse 25). How can we remain thankful in all circumstances? We can because the most important thing of all remains constant-- His love endures forever.

Prayer Requests:

When I began my internship, I had only reached half my goal for financial support. The support I have been receiving has dwindled even more and my account is short on the money I need for outreach and conference costs, training, materials, and salary. I am trusting the Lord that He will raise $400 in monthly pledges before the end of the year. Please pray in agreement with me that God will raise this support, and also prayerfully consider giving a monthly pledge.

Pray as we prepare for Fastbreak, our beginning of the year Student Venture retreat. A few of the SV students who are now core Christian leaders at their high schools received Christ or rededicated their lives to Christ at past Student Venture retreats. They are eager and excited to give their classmates an opportunity to do the same, so they are prayerfully working toward bringing at least 50 students from their high school to Fastbreak. Please pray along with us that God will honor their faith and their heart for their lost friends.

Pray for our upcoming outreach events for the rest of the year. This Friday, Dave, one of the student leaders, will be hosting his orchestra group at his home. He will share his testimony, and there will be a gospel presentation. Please pray for God to open the hearts of the students who will attend. We are praying that God will create an interest and the students will be open to joining Bible studies designed to fit their schedules.

BE ASSURED THAT I AM PRAYING FOR YOU.

New Mercies

2007-10-06T08:51:00.000-07:00

"This I recall to mind, therefore I have hope. Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed, for His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:21-23.

Praise God for a new month, a new day, new mercies!

The past month held its share of discouragements and setbacks, and the Lord taught me to rely on His grace. Not only did I deal with personal battles, but it appeared that everywhere I turned, I encountered someone who was experiencing difficult times (friends experiencing loss, people dealing with health and financial issues, students I work with experiencing emotional turmoil . . .)! Has anybody been there? Can anyone relate to these hardships?

There's great news: we have a loving and compassionate God who "sees our frame and knows that we are made of dust." Each new day brings new mercies; each trial comes with a special dose of grace. In the same way that the Israelites had to learn to trust God for manna on a daily basis, God teaches us to rely on His compassionate hand day by day while we go through life's "deserts". Praise God!

Continuing on this note of praise . . .

God has provided a place for me to stay in Carrollton so that I can be in closer proximity to the high school students I work with. I'm already enjoying the benefits of living so close--I was able to attend the high school football game last night. I won't comment on the score, but I did enjoy waving a green and yellow pom-pom and screaming "Go, Trojans, Go!"

Our October outreach--JELLO FEST--was a delightfully messy experience (Stay tuned for pictures). I got jello in my ear, but best of all TWO STUDENTS PRAYED TO RECEIVE CHRIST!

Prayer Requests

Please pray for an upcoming "team talk" for Varsity and JV volleyball players at Newman Smith (October 15th). Team talks involve delivering a motivational message to a group of students, then encouraging them to become a part of a small group study where they can learn about God and grow in their relationship with Him.

It has been difficult getting groups of girls together for Bible studies due to time conflicts in the busy, busy lives of these high school girls. Please ask that God will grant us wisdom in structuring the Bible studies so that we can accomodate the various schedules.

Please pray for a student I've been "hanging out" with, K.E. She comes from a dysfunctional background and she is carrying a lot of emotional baggage. K.E. loves the Lord, and she is staying strong, but she is constantly battling negative thoughts and feelings. Ask that the Lord would strengthen her and grant me wisdom as I strive to point her to Him.

THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT AND PRAYERS!

And They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love

2007-09-01T13:18:00.000-07:00

"By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" John 13:35 (NIV).

Natalie, a Student Venture member, is a sophomore at Newman Smith High School. She plays volleyball and has a nice smile. Oh, and one more thing. She is a Christian.

Now, I don't simply mean that she calls her self a Christian, and I am not implying that she lives a sinless life. She doesn't walk around with a Bible strapped around her head or anything--no, she's a pretty normal teenager. Coach purses, boy issues and all.

Let me share a story with you, and you can draw your own conclusions.

School resumed this past Monday for Newman Smith students, and Natalie noticed that one of her friends, a fellow Student Venture member, had not bought any new clothing for the school year. So, she did what any normal Christian would do--she went to her room, looked at her own pile of new clothes, and thanked God that he had given them to her. She also sent a cursory prayer in her friend's direction, that God would take care of her financial situation.

No, it did not happen that way. What Natalie actually did was call her friend up and ask her what her favorite clothing store was. Then Natalie went out and bought a gift card from that store, and gave it to her friend. Two days ago, as I stood among an after-school crowd at Newman Smith, the girl who had received the gift shared with Tom, Brooke, and me, the story of what Natalie had done for her. There was a smile on her face, a smile that Jesus put there. But He used Natalie.

God calls us to come to Him through His Son and experience His love. He also calls us to demonstrate His love, and by it all men will know that we are His disciples (John 13:35). What a witness! The Bible says of the early Christians:

"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer . . . .Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need . . . .And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved"

(Acts 2:42, 45, 47).

The Christians' love for one another was a witness that led to salvation. Pray with me that God will enable us this school year to reach Carrollton high school students not just through our words, but through our demonstration of God's love for one another.

Other Prayer Requests:

Pray for God to direct our steps as we plan for our first outreach for the year--a pool party to welcome freshmen.
Ask that we would keep our plans aligned with God's will as we map Carrollton campuses for ministry opportunities this school year.
Please pray for me and other new staff or volunteers that will be coming onboard this year, as well as current Student Venture staff, that God would give us His vision and grant us the grace and humility to stick to it even when "results" are not apparent.

I love you all and I sincerely appreciate your partnership in ministry. I am truly blessed!

Dave Bryant--Testimony

2007-08-21T08:16:00.000-07:00

Watch Dave Bryant share an abbreviated version of his testimony. Dave is a senior this year at Newman Smith High School, where I am an intern with Student Venture. He has a passionate heart for God and for leading others to Him. I tell you, folks, God is raising a generation for Himself that will bring revival not only to this nation, but to the world.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=s1i4nz_cALw

Crossing Boundaries

2007-08-03T17:14:00.000-07:00

Each time I read about Jesus' ministry on earth, I marvel at the way He was able to reach people at every level: poor, rich, outcast, high-ranking, young, old. It was not His worldly status that opened doors for Him to build relationships with people. And He was not exactly an orator -- in fact, it was the very simplicity of His profound words that caused (and still causes) people to pause and listen. I conclude (and I think you might agree) that it was pure love that enabled Christ to make the difference that He did in the lives of those He touched.

I am always thinking about the idea of crossing boundaries. How do I best break through the walls of pain, or insecurity, or worldliness to reach that teenager for Christ? How can I demonstrate God's love to this person or that person when I don't know what their needs are? God is constantly reminding me that it is His work to make a difference; it is my work to simply love. And for that matter, I don't have to muster this love on my own. The Holy Spirit is with me to empower me to love as God has commanded.

Last Monday, I had the opportunity to enjoy watching God work through a teenager to overstep a boundary in love and share words of hope with a bitter, young African-American man. I took seven Student Venture students to a local mall to share the gospel with people there. One fifteen-year-old student, Josh, felt a nudge to approach a young man whom he described as looking "all tough . . . like a gangster." With God's boldness, Josh initiated conversation with the man: "Looking at you, people will probably assume that you're a thug." The man, surprised, explained that he had just had the same conversation with his friend. Apparently, throughout the time they had been in the mall, he and his friend had been trailed by a caucasian policeman, and this young man was experiencing feelings of bitterness and remorse because he felt that in spite of his "good standing" and his college degrees, he was being judged for his appearances. Josh was able to talk to the man about a relationship with God, assuring him of his value in God's sight.

As each student shared his or her experience after our outreach at the mall -- explaining who Jesus is to an Iranian soap kiosk-salesman, taking a 10-year-old girl through the plan of salvation, receiving encouragement from a fellow Christian, and so on -- I could not help but smile as I realized that we had done what Jesus did during His ministry on earth. We had made ourselves available, and as one student, Courtney said, "deeply felt God's love" for these people; and God had taken care of the results!

Friends, thank you for your partnership in making these opportunities possible. Whether you give financially or spend time in prayer for me and Student Venture Carrollton, "your labor in the Lord is not in vain" (1 Corinthians 15:58). Someday soon, we will stand before our Righteous Judge and rejoice that we played a part in restoring the lost to Him.

I love you all, and you are in my prayers always!

Freedom Month!!!

2007-07-05T11:43:00.000-07:00

Hi friends!!

Hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July.

I returned from Colorado last Friday, volunteered at the Celebrate Freedom Christian concert in Dallas on Saturday, and hopped into Laura's Kentucky-bound vehicle on Sunday.

Yes, it's been a busy past couple of weeks, but I've had the blessing of visiting with many of my ministry supporters in a few different states, and reuniting with friends.

As I promised, I've got pictures from the Colorado Rocky Mountain Getaway Conference!!! Three students from Carrollton accepted Christ at the conference; one other student, raised a Muslim, also received Christ, but is having a difficult time with the idea that he can only serve one God. Please pray that God will continue to work on his heart. Several other students from other regions also received Christ at the conference.

The students at the conference all had the opportunity to share their faith with the community on the last full day at Estes Park, and through these students, God brought salvation to many of the inhabitants of Estes Park and surrounding towns/cities.

I have now raised up to one-third of my financial support--praise God!!! God is reminding me everyday of His ability to do over and beyond all that I could ever ask or think. I pray that you all experience the joy of resting in the assurance of His presence.

Prayer Requests . . .

I will be working together with a couple of other volunteers to oversee the summer Student Venture ministry in Carrollton. Please ask that God would use us to nurture the students and lead others to Him.

Please pray that God would grant the SV Carrollton staff the wisdom and discernment necessary to select and train student leaders for next year.

PLEASE let me know how I can be praying for you. Love you all!!

Sunrise!!

Main building on YMCA Camp, Estes Park

Rock Climbing :)

2nd Day in Colorado

2007-06-24T15:03:00.000-07:00

Colorado is BEAUTIFUL!!!

I don't have lot of time to write right now, but I'd like to give a summary of the Colorado trip so far.

I left Dallas at 8pm on Friday in a bus carrying 50 high school students; the bus arrived at Estes Park, Colorado at 3:30pm on Saturday. Suffice it to say that by the time we arrived in Colorado, I was well-versed in every random topic the teenage mind could conjure :)

Did I mention that Colorado is beautiful? As the bus climbed up the mountains to Estes Park, my head swung back and forth to take in the view on my left, then my right. I didn't want to miss a bit of it. By the way, for those of you who care to know, Estes Park reminds me a lot of Julian, California.

Last evening, Sean McDowell shared with us about "Engaging God with your Mind." He blessed our lives with the testimony of his father, Josh McDowell, and encouraged the students to seek the truth about Christ for themselves, rather than live off words passed down to them by others--"because if you genuinely seek truth, you could find no possible conclusion other than that Jesus is truly the Christ, Savior of the world."

What a blessed truth!

Sorry I have no pictures yet. They will come in time, I'm sure. Please continue to keep us in your prayers!

Rocky Mountains, Here We Come!!!

2007-06-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends!

Can you believe it's the middle of the month already?! I just want to send out a quick reminder that in approximately one week, Student Venture, Carrollton will be off to the Colorado Rocky Mountains where we will join hundreds of other students in the region for a week (June 22-29) of drawing closer to God. Please, continue to be in prayer for the students who are trying to raise funds to attend the Conference. We had a successful car wash fundraiser last Tuesday, and another one coming up on June 19th. This picture is actually of last year's car wash . . .but many of the same students were present this year :) Also pray that the Lord will guide the students as they recruit their friends to attend this Conference that will impact their lives for eternity. Finally, ask that the Lord would meet with us as we devote the week to seeking His face, that we would all come back changed.

If I have access to the internet (and time), I will try to keep you posted on the day-to-day goings on throughout the conference.

God bless you as you continue to fulfill the Great Commission!

June Newsletter: Few Things Beat Seeing My Dad :)

2007-06-09T18:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends and Ministry Partners,

What an exciting end to the month of May! Here are some highlights:

Visit with my Dad!
Yes, yes, my dad visited from Nigeria, and during the last week of May, I went to hang out with him in New York where he was a guest minister at a local church. It had been exactly a year since I last saw him (or my mom), and it was certainly a joyful reunion :) As exciting the visit was, I bet there was not as much rejoicing in heaven over it as there was over this next point . . .

Pool Party
Our end-of-year pool party outreach was a success--as are all things God has a hand in! Quoting a report on the event: "The leadership students encouraged those in attendance . . . shared their testimony and the Gospel message, and two students indicated a decision to trust Christ! One of those students, Illya, was born in Russia, is now a US citizen, ranked in the top 2% of his class, and who decided . . .to make that most important decision!! . . . Two of Illya’s good friends who are SV leadership students (Dave and Danny), took him out to Starbucks three months ago and shared the Gospel with him, but Illya told them that he was not a Christian and that he could never be passionate for Christ like his friends Dave and Danny …. I guess you should never say never!!" Praise God!

Graduation
Several of our Student Venture members graduated from Newman Smith High School. We held a "send-off" ceremony to celebrate them. Three of the leadership students spoke at their baccalaureate service (one shared the gospel) and they were an encouragement to all who attended the service.

Prayer Requests . . .

Please pray for the upcoming SV Conference in Colorado, called "Getaway" (http://www.svconferences.com/). From June 23rd to June 28th, several hundred high school students (including the Carrollton SV students) will gather at the conference site in Estes Park, Colorado, for a time of worship, adventure and growth. They will return home empowered and fired up to reach their friends for Christ. Ask that God will make it financially possible for the students to attend, and that we would be able to enlist a large number of lowerclassmen who can return home carrying the baton for witnessing.

Praise God! I have raised a quarter of my support, and I'm still counting. God has been showing me that He is more than able to foot the bill for the work He's called me to. Please pray that I would continue to trust God and not be discouraged.

God bless you all, and thank you so much for your support. I pray that God will continually reveal is power to you.