Global Reach Updates

Travel to countries where we have ministries and travel within those countries has been very limited and difficult the past 18 months due to COVID restrictions. Our updates are also more limited because of restricted travel and activities worldwide. This has been stressful for our staff across the globe serving in Global Reach fields. They miss us and we miss fellowship with them. Because of this pandemic, outreach has been limited but continues. Please pray for our brothers and sisters serving in our GR fields to be safe and encouraged.

Kenya

In May, Lisa Wilt and Nancy Boyer, from ERC, traveled to Kenya to help facilitate a Winebrenner Theological Seminary class on Old Testament. Seven Kenyan students were able to complete this class. Dr. Brent Sleasman facilitated discussions on the video recorded lectures. This was the first of what we hope will be several classes conducted this way for Kenyan students and pastors. Please be in prayer for the students to continue their studies of the Scriptures and to enroll in future classes.

Brazil

In May, Ben Tobias and Mike Poe (ERC) traveled to Brazil to visit the churches in Bahia State, especially the newest one in Dom Macedo. Ernesto Nunes (President of the Brazil Conference) traveled with them once they arrived in Brazil. Mike Poe, former missionary to Brazil, served as translator. The Bahia churches are thriving, and God is blessing with growth. Like other countries, the Brazil churches (at least the Bahian ones) are handling the pandemic with resilience and hope. They’re living up to their name, “Good News Bible Churches.” This was Ben’s first international trip since before the pandemic – a year-and-a-half pause – and so he felt a bit apprehensive about the additional requirements of COVID testing before departure and return. Everything went well, and there were no significant hiccups.

Venezuela

In July, Caleb Acosta visited Venezuela after a two year wait to return (pictured on right with Pastor Liarxi Alcala). He shared the following observations. The Venezuelan Conference is united. Each local church has their struggles, but they are growing, people are receiving Jesus, and being baptized. They continue to help with medical operatives in their surrounding communities. Caleb also learned that the country has become dollarized. Most transactions are done in US dollars. Food is available but at an elevated cost. Fuel is scarce right now and there are long lines to fill tanks when fuel becomes available. Many times, they are without fuel. Pastors Liarxi and Mara are mentoring leaders for the local churches and Conference work that is needed. They are joining hands with the Red Cross in Venezuela in serving. Pray for continued encouragement and wisdom for the leaders and churches in Venezuela.

India & Bangladesh

India and Bangladesh continue to experience severe levels of COVID-19 cases and deaths. As of the writing of this update, lockdowns have been extended in Bangladesh and in country travel is extremely restricted. India has very similar restrictions. Our Mission workers continue to minister in any way they possibly can including distributing relief resources like food, masks, and other hygiene items. This has brought some encouragement to these people in a time when they need it most. One of the most difficult situations during the past 18 months is the inability of the children to meet together for school. This continues to be very difficult for them emotionally, socially and physically. Isolation, depression, and hopelessness are becoming common among the families in the communities our Mission staff ministers to. Please pray that God will make a way for the schools to reopen by 2022 so the children can meet again and that our staff can bring hope, love, and basic needs to the people of India and Bangladesh.

Haiti

The situation in Haiti is about as unstable as it has ever been. Gangs are wreaking havoc in the city areas and taking advantage of the current chaos and recent assassination of Haiti’s president. As of the writing of this update, Mike and Dawn VanDervort plan to attempt to return to Haiti in mid-August. Lord willing, they are there and safe. Please pray for Rod and Mila Ayers as they need discernment as to when they can return to Haiti, especially within the Borel area. Mike and Dawn will be retiring this November and transitioning back to the US. Pray for a smooth transition and adjustment back into the US. (Pastors Watson Joseph, Milus Tilus, and Mike VanDervort pictured in January 2021, left to right.)

Thailand

At the time of publication, Bryan and Katie Crabtree arrived safely in Thailand and were required to quarantine for 14 days. After quarantine, they took a 10-hour taxi ride to Udon Thani, Thailand where they will be living and serving. Because of recent spikes in COVID cases, the school Katie is teaching at may start the school year as a virtual school. Please be in prayer for them as they adjust to a new culture for them and their one-year-old daughter Elli. They are also expecting their second child in November. Pray for the whole birthing process. They appreciate your prayers and support.

Thank you for your faithful prayers and support in reaching the lost across the globe. It is making a difference for eternity.