Reports in this edition are from countries shaded on the map.
SOUTH SUDAN
NORTH SUDAN
Wednesday 1st
ANGOLA Angolan Literature Fund
The work of the Angolan Literature Fund (ALF) continues to provide Bibles and Christian literature for use in Angola. The Charity greatly welcomes the interest in this work and values the prayers and material support for the work. The ALF is indebted to the support of local missionaries Brian and Debbie Howden serving the Lord in Camundambala, near Saurimo in Angola. They maintain close links with key workers in the country to enable the transportation, storage and distribution of literature. The ALF also supports a printing facility in Saurimo which enables some literature to be produced as the needs dictate.
Two Trustees, Victor Michael and David Montgomery, visited Angola in January enabling direct interaction with stakeholders and beneficiaries of the work of the ALF. This visit offered opportunity for fellowship with the local workers, oversight of activities and the establishment of needs for further literature. The Trustees confirmed that regular visits to the country are required and these visits are greatly valued by missionaries and local workers. It was a real blessing to be repeatedly approached by Angolans who simply wanted to thank the saints for their generosity. The benefit of the literature provided by the ALF was conveyed most effectively to the Trustees.
During the visit to Angola the Trustees were able to witness the safe and timely arrival of the latest container which included additional printing equipment and over 10,000 Portuguese Bibles. 50,000 calendars in several local languages were also delivered and distributed at the start of the year. Trustees were able to present children at the school in Camundambala with their own calendar to take home. The importation of containers has been an issue recently and it was an answer to prayer that this one was unhindered. Please continue to pray with us as a further container shipment is scheduled for later in the year.
The Trustees have been in discussion about closing the Print Room in the capital, Luanda, in the anticipation of the retirement of Jorge Messene. Jorge has been a long term and faithful worker for the ALF having been taken on as a worker by missionaries as a boy and has latterly served the Lord well in the Luanda Print Room. Printing needs in Luanda have dwindled and it is expected that the Luanda printing requirements will now be met by the Print Room in Saurimo.
By contrast the Print Room in Saurimo goes from strength to strength. Additional printing and collating equipment delivered in the container in January was gratefully received. Equipment has a limited working life in the harsh environment in Angola and units need to be regularly replaced. Additional printers are a continuous requirement to keep the Print Room operational in the support of the literature work and printing of the Emmaus Bible Courses. Please remember the workers in Saurimo; Jacob runs the Print Room, with Paula and Bigelo operating the Book Room on the same site. Paula is due to retire at the end of the year and leave operations of the Book Room to Jacob supported by Bigelo. The Trustees thank Paula for her many years of service and pray that the transition works well.
Another Book Room in Luena was also visited. This is operated by Paulo and has seen growth and further increase in the number of students doing Emmaus Bible Courses. It was good to
see how the work there has been re-established following a period of waning interest. The injection of new publications and a good selection of Bibles is necessary to maintain visits to the Book Room and regular sales.
The ongoing translation of literature from Portuguese into the local language Chokwe for printing is being supported by a young teacher named Claudio. As a committed Christian, Claudio is giving up his time in the mornings before he goes to his teaching job in the afternoon. May the Lord bless his sacrifice. New literature needs identified during the visit were for Study Bibles and Sunday School Visual Aids which the ALF will endeavour to support in future shipments.
Ongoing prayer is valued for missionary endeavour in Angola. Brian and Debbie Howden are the only assembly commended missionaries in Angola. Please pray for others to take up the call of missionary effort in Angola.
On
behalf of
ANGOLAN LITERATURE FUND (ALF)
Thursday 2nd BRAZIL
11/5/26
Psa 119 v 89-176
Over the past few weeks, there have been several storms and strong winds in the region. We are grateful to God, for He has kept us safe on every boat trip.
The new believers on the Arapiuns River are already helping with some gospel preaching in other communities which is very encouraging. However, some of the new believers are currently suffering from various health problems so we would ask that you remember them in prayer: sister Conceição has osteoarthritis and arthritis; sister Juliana has Parkinson’s and recently suffered a fall; brother Antônio has recently been diagnosed with a problem in his lungs. They have shown an interest in having more meetings in the second half of the year. The nearest assembly to the new believers in Arapiuns is Santarém, about an 8-hour boat journey away. I am planning to increase our visits to Arapiuns to three per month in the second half of the year.
We are preparing for two days of Bible study in June, which will take place across three assemblies on this side of the river. It is a great opportunity to share biblical teachings with more brothers and sisters who live far away and who need help and teaching.
Distance is one of the significant challenges that we face in this region; only 15% of the assemblies and preaching points are on this side of the Amazon River where we live, the other 85% are on the opposite banks and islands of the Amazon and Arapiuns rivers. Your tireless prayers are always appreciated by the brothers and sisters in northern Brazil.
C. 2018 (Brazil) SERGIO & DEBORA RODRIGUES 8/5/26
Friday 3rd
UKRAINE
Lviv 16th February – 19th March
“… I being in the way, the Lord led me to the house of my master’s brethren.” Gen 24:27
It pleased the Lord to open the door to return to Lviv another time to continue our service. We had just ended a busy three months distributing Ukrainian Gospel Calendars in Ireland to the many refugee centres and hubs in Bray, Wicklow town, Arklow, Tullamore, Dublin, Letterkenny, Cavan and Belfast.
As we set out we had peace, and a great desire to share the Gospel with the natives of Ukraine, although apprehensive as the war continues. Also, Ukraine had experienced a bad winter with temperatures plummeting and many hours of no electricity (the Monday before we arrived, Lviv had no power for 18 hours). After flying from Belfast – Krakow and an 8 hour coach journey, we arrived in Lviv to -10 degrees and icy Siberia winds, but a warm welcome from brother Ruslan.
The next day we went to Strii to visit Micha, his daughter and grandchild. His son-inlaw is at war, sadly “missing”, assumed dead. We proceeded to Yesopovage Orphanage where we gathered with the children and workers and shared the Gospel. The following day was Sosnivska children’s meeting – there were only 7 kids, but 34 adults (many from the East, refugees in their own country) and it was a joy to preach to a packed room.
During the month in Lviv, I gave ministry each Lord’s Day. We also had three visits to Ivano-Frankivsk to help in the Gospel. On one occasion they had 39 at the meeting –again many refugees from Donetsk, the Donbas and Dnipro, which are all cities close to the front line. Attention was excellent and we pray for blessing.
We had two amazing visits to the Homeless Shelter on Saturday evenings, where we had over forty men and women at both visits. After they had all signed in and were seated in the canteen, we preached the Gospel and it thrilled our hearts as they listened intently to God’s Word. These folks have literally nothing of this world’s goods, but they have a soul and need salvation. Tanya (Ruslan’s wife) and Agnes served hot dogs followed by chocolate biscuits, apples and bananas, tea and coffee and a Gospel tract.
Fellowship together after Breaking of Bread, Lviv
Preaching at Homeless Shelter
It was a joy to go back to Drohobitz Mother’s Centre attached to the Hospital. Nine mothers gathered to hear the Gospel. Some with very young babies plus five members of staff. I spoke on 1 Timothy 1:15. One lady from Odessa had a few questions for Ruslan about life and death and salvation. Each lady received kids pampers, toiletries and Gospel literature.
Lopatin orphanage/school is always very welcoming to us and Maria, the director along with the staff encourage Bible teaching. There were approximately seventy kids gathered along with ten teachers. We sang together, Ruslan taught a verse and I spoke from Genesis 22 – they all listened well and even some of my questions were answered by the teachers. May God challenge these hearts in relation to the wonderful truth of the Saviour at Golgotha.
With funds provided by the Lord via the Lord’s people we were able to purchase large quantities of dried foods, soups, porridge, biscuits, snacks and wet wipes for the soldiers on the front line. These soldiers are in trenches and operating underground for weeks at a time in appalling conditions. We also included laminated Gospel verses. These supplies would be driven by a volunteer to a location thirty miles from the front line and then delivered by a drone to the soldiers.
The day before we came back, we visited Yuri and Maria and Baba (grandmother) in the village. Yuri was saved seven years ago, but has been in hiding from the “conscription squads”. He never leaves the home and was very glad to see us. Maria is a nurse in a large hospital in Lviv. She does a 24-hour shift nine times a month. The previous night five people had died on her shift. After a delightful meal I asked could I read the Bible. Yuri said, “we are waiting”. I spoke a short word from Romans 6:23. Maria doesn’t seem to show much interest but listened well and we pray she will seek salvation.
We made many other personal visits to folks and I read and prayed with each. We give God thanks for His protection and preservation. We also acknowledge the many believers and assemblies around the globe who told us that they were praying. All for the Glory of God and exaltation of the Lord Jesus Christ.
C. 2010
& AGNES JOHNSTON 14/5/26
Orphanage, Lviv
Gospel meeting at Mother's Centre beside assembly
Saturday 4th
ENGLAND Skelmanthorpe
Since I last wrote a report for this magazine almost 12 months have passed during which it has been a privilege to continue making regular school assembly visits. In many cases we have been visiting the same schools for over 30 years now and are grateful to the Lord for continued openings.
This academic year I have been dealing with the story of David and seeing parallels with the experiences of the Lord Jesus in seeking to draw out gospel truths as well as practical lessons for life that the children can learn from. As you read this article, in the will of the Lord, I should be in the middle of the last round of visits for the academic year when I always have a ‘year-end quiz’ to test what the children remember about the stories throughout the year and award suitable prizes. Staff often comment on how much better they remember what has been taught in assembly than the things they teach the children in class! We pray that the Lord will speak to the hearts of children and staff alike as the simple truths of His Word are shared with them.
On Thursday 25th June D.V. the reception class from the local Church of England primary school in Skelmanthorpe will make their annual visit to the Hall when some of the local assembly members will help me in presenting to the children what we practice. The baptistry will be open (without water for safety purposes!), videos shown and the breaking of bread demonstrated amongst other things. There will also be a Bible story, quiz and singing.
Ministry of the Word continues to feature prominently on my schedule and this year I have had a couple of fresh opportunities in this regard. In March it was a privilege to be the speaker at the Barnstondale Bible Study Weekend when over forty believers of all ages gathered and the spiritual potential in the lives present seemed great. Studies in the life of Elijah seemed to be appreciated and we trust were for the Lord’s glory.
In early June I am due to be at Winshill for their Bible Study Day and intend to take up the prophetic theme ‘after the rapture’ in the three sessions of ministry. At the time of writing, I am in the middle of Tuesday night meetings in Skelmanthorpe on Nehemiah and a Wednesday night series in Wythenshawe, Manchester on 2 Thessalonians. During June and July I hope to conduct a Wednesday night series in Prestwich for four weeks, as well as several other one-off meetings. Prayer is valued for the ongoing labour.
C. 1991 PHILIP & GILLIAN KAYE 14/5/26
Sunday 5th
MALAWI Saidi
Lately I have been taking stock of the different areas of the work and prayerfully seeking the way forward for the remainder of this year. It is exciting to see what the Lord has done and is doing. There is still such an interest in the gospel and His word, and He is always faithful to provide the resources. The only thing I can say that we still lack is more labourers. Please pray with us for the Lord to send more labourers to His harvest. The time very well may be short!
The work with Bibletime is going well. Over the last few months, I have been slowly following up with the groups that were trained and received the books last year. It has been so encouraging to hear how the curriculum has transformed their classes. The kids now have a real understanding of Scripture and enjoy coming! They are even sharing what they learn with their parents and friends. Please pray for this all to result in salvation and spiritual growth. In lieu of labourers, these books do a pretty amazing job of teaching the truth simply and pointing both the teachers and their students to the Lord Jesus.
The plan was to begin training new groups in June. It’s hard to know if that will be possible, given the acute fuel shortages that we are facing. We will also need to order books in country, as we have quickly gone through almost 100,000 books over the past year. When I think of the roughly 10 million children in this country, it seems like a very small number. Currently I am working on resources for training others to train new groups, so the work doesn’t depend on me, but the logistics of printing and transport will still be limiting factors. Please pray for wisdom to know how the Lord wants us to move forward and expand the work.
There has also been slow but steady growth with the Emmaus work. It was encouraging just yesterday to pass by a woman sitting on her porch with an Emmaus course and Bible in hand. My prayer and belief is that people can’t study God’s Word and remain unchanged! Please pray that it will be especially fruitful in our local assembly, where there is a lot of apathy and lack of growth. Pray that we will also have guidance to make these courses available to more people, so they can come to know the God of the Bible.
The local children’s work continues. We just began a new book in the Bibletime series –always an exciting (and slightly hectic) time! It is encouraging to see several ladies faithfully helping in the work and even learning to teach. Please pray that in this and so many other areas, the Lord would help us to equip local believers to continue the work in a way that pleases Him.
C. 2017 (USA)
18/5/26
Monday 6th
BOTSWANA Gaborone
We were so pleased to have a lovely group of young people come to the Block 8 Hall for a time of teaching and fellowship. A large number of them are the children of believers who are in fellowship in Gaborone assembly. Some of the young people are baptised and a few are in fellowship. Some are here for university or college and a few more are not yet saved. We had the benefit of a public holiday which means we had a sleepover at the Hall too. Three of our own brethren did a teaching session each, which was so practical and challenging, and we do pray for lives to be changed by His Word and a desire to follow Christ in their daily walk.
Only one or two in this group are working – the others are still students. We have a dearth of jobs at the moment and they may be out of work for some time.
The daily Sunday Schools continue and we are so relieved that the unusual rains have stopped - it is not possible to have the mid-week Sunday Schools in bad weather as we sit outside. We continue to enjoy our opportunities to speak in the schools. 12-year-olds are at a wonderful age to hear the gospel. Please pray for the work among children throughout the whole country.
C. 1990 JOY GRIFFITHS 19/5/26
Tuesday 7th
VENEZUELA
San Pedrito river crossing
Los Altos
Since the end of January and for six weeks, we held open-air meetings in the La Gancia area of Los Altos. A young couple, Santiago Coa and his wife Oscaribel (members of the assembly), expressed their desire to have meetings in their home. Some neighbours attended regularly, along with a good number of children. Mr. Noel McKeown preached and enjoyed the meetings; there was a good feeling and reverence every night.
Don Aurelio, age 74, had been struggling for several nights. This was one of the few times he had attended gospel meetings regularly and was truly listening. One night, he arrived before the meeting began with good news: very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he got out of bed, knelt down and received Christ as his Saviour. We are all very happy for the grace of our God. Don Aurelio had led a disorderly life, to the point where his family abandoned him for several years and he lived alone. His son Pedro, who is about forty and not saved, wept when he heard that his father had believed in the Lord. We all pray that it is genuine and that his new life may be used by the Lord to draw others into His grace.
Then for five weeks, we accompanied the believers of the small assembly in San Pedrito. We went down every afternoon to evangelise and preach the Gospel in the open air. We began in the El Naranjo sector in a small community called La Cueva. It was the first time we had preached there. For three weeks we held Bible classes and preached house-to-house. Some showed interest and joined us at the Hall where we also
Baptisms at San Pedrito
preached the Gospel each night. The Lord allowed us to reach Las Charas, the last sector of San Pedrito, where we have preached on previous visits. Mr. Julio Figuera was visiting from Margarita and accompanied us for a week.
During the final week, Mrs. América, who had been attending and listening with interest for several nights at the hall, stayed behind to tell us that she had received the Lord as her personal Saviour. Even when we do not deserve it, the blessings of heaven encourage our hearts. The meetings concluded, and four believers were baptised and added to the small assembly.
Because of the conferences in Los Altos, we had to finish in San Pedrito. We shared a week of preconference teaching and then helped with the co-ordination and development of that exercise. It was the 52nd Northeast Conference, and we were joined by several servants of the Lord. In His grace, there was good word given.
We ask you to continue praying for the work of the Lord in Venezuela, especially in the Northeast, and for us, that the Lord may manifest His will and make His work prosper.
C. 2018 (Venezuela)
Conference at Los Altos
Serving food at Conference
Wednesday 8th
CANADA Nunavat
God led us to move to Pond Inlet (pop. 1,700) in 2017 after learning of the high suicide rate in Nunavut.
The sole purpose of living here is to share the message of forgiveness of sin through the Lord Jesus Christ and the peace that it brings amid the chaos and trauma that is prevalent due to drugs and alcohol.
Hosting youth in our home three times a week for a meal, singing and bible teaching provides a way to share the Good News and build relationships. Steve preaches the Gospel on the local radio station twice weekly.
God also brings local adults into our lives to share the way of salvation through food distribution, practical helps and mental/ spiritual support.
Sailors from around the world dock here in the summer on their way through the Northwest passage providing opportunities to assist them and have biblical conversations. Souls from locations across Canada come to Pond Inlet for building projects. We host them for meals, thus building relationships and sharing Jesus Christ. God is at work in many ways.
Prayer requests:
• For God to stop the drugs and alcohol coming into the community
• For spiritual protection
• For wisdom for each personal interaction
C. 2013 (Canada) STEVE & HEIDI McCANDLESS 19/5/26
Pond Inlet
Steve & Heidi
Thursday 9th
UKRAINE Lutsk
War is a horrible thing to live through. It affects everyone’s life and causes major disruptions. Sirens of incoming drones and missiles sound day and night and jets are heard all the time taking off and landing. Military funerals are a daily event and every day a minute’s silence is observed at 9am. We had a really bad day on Wednesday with a massive drone attack on Lutsk. We all were in the basement for most of the day and the sound of bombs on impact and of the army trying to shoot down the drones was very loud. Living under curfew isn’t easy and mobilisation has caused immense problems. The police and the military have the authority to lift any man they see on the street or driving a car and transport them to the military enlistment office where the staff are ruthless.
Please pray that God preserves the assembly. With four brethren serving in the military in some capacity, it puts a tremendous burden on the assembly and leaves those of us who remain under a lot of pressure. It is possible that over the summer months we will have to scale back a little on some assembly meetings. We really miss the help of four brethren.
We enjoy great numbers of people attending the assembly meetings and Thursday evenings remain large. It is such a privilege to preach the Gospel under trying circumstances. Most of the company are women or pensioners. Young people’s meetings continue every other Wednesday and UCC (Ukraine Child Care) continues every day from 3.15pm to 4.15pm.
Pray for Sasha
As we write, Sasha has just been taken to the military. He was about to drop his wife off at the children’s home to do craft work with the children, but he was stopped by the military and taken to serve. He has partial disablement due to a head injury and a daughter who has special needs and needs 24-hour care. Pray for his wife, Olga and their two daughters, Oksana and Katja. Sasha, Olga and Oksana are all in assembly fellowship.
Sasha & Olga's house
Pray for Anatoly
Many of you have been praying for Anatoly. He serves in the military locally delivering drones and equipment. This enables him to be at most of the assembly meetings which is greatly appreciated. Anatoly does not keep well, but the recruitment offices have set the bar so low for recruitment that really anyone is called up no matter their physical condition.
Pray for Kostja
Kostja serves at the front and is away from his family for 300 days at a time. Kostja is allowed home for only 10 days and then goes back to serve for 300 days. His wife Julia, Arsen (5) and Sofia (6 months) miss him and find life extremely difficult.
Pray for Sergei
Sergei does a tremendous amount of work for the military and that makes it difficult for him to be at all the assembly meetings. He continually takes loads of humanitarian aid and military equipment to Kharkiv and the surrounding areas in the East of Ukraine.
We decided to take everyone away for four days to the Carpathian Mountains which are seven hours south of Lutsk. We hired buses and stayed in two motels. We had an amazing time and for most, they had never been to a mountain area before. We were so thankful to God for the beautiful weather and for preserving everyone from any accidents or incidents.
We really do appreciate your prayers. Rhoda and I are only doing what you enable us to do and together we are working for God to bless in salvation. Life is difficult and the workload demanding, but God has been good and we are thrilled to be able to do something for Him in challenging times.
C. 1993 TIMOTHY & RHODA SLOAN 19/5/26
Friday 10th
PANAMA Valle Hermosa
“Then they that gladly received his word were baptised: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers…and the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” (Acts 2:41, 42, 47)
These are still principles that we live and work by today and believe that the Lord blesses in the same way. A young man came to us last year looking for Christians that gathered like they did in the book of Acts. He was saved and baptised as a young lad, but was not content in the religious systems he and his family attended. A believer from his place of work invited him to come and visit the meetings of the local assembly. After several visits, observing the character of the different meetings of the assembly he approached us and said, ‘I would like to be part of this gathering because you gather according to biblical principles and your doctrine is the apostle’s doctrine. I’ve been searching for such a place.’ After some studies together he was gladly received into the fellowship of the assembly. We are encouraged that recently two or three others have come forward wanting to learn more about baptism and assembly fellowship, so we are spending time going over the scriptures with them.
The most recent school we visited was through a contact of a teacher at the orphanage where we go each week. She said there is a school in her village, about two hours away and we’d be welcome to give out Bible literature. We loaded up the truck with texts and used clothing and made the journey, which was challenging even with our four-wheel drive vehicle. Each child received a couple of sets of clothing, shoes, etc. and a Bible text and we were able to have a short message in each class with the kids about the meaning of John 3:16.
There was good attendance at the monthly anatomy class that Lois teaches for the group who educate at home. This class not only meets curriculum needs, but also gives opportunity for sharing the gospel and having meaningful conversations afterwards while enjoying a light snack.
The first week of June marks the end of the first school semester here, so the children get a week off. As in the past, we are planning a week of children’s meetings and activities. Often over sixty children attend along with a good number of parents.
Again this year we are planning on having a group of young girls come down in July for a couple of weeks to help and experience Christian living in a different culture. In the past, we have found these groups to be very encouraging and positive for them and for us and we pray that this year will be the same.
Thank you for your continued support in prayer. C. 2006
School Clothing
Dr. Lois’s Anatomy Class
Saturday
11th
ZAMBIA
The staff housing project is moving along slowly, but surely. Most of the building and plastering is done inside and outside the houses, and the builders have moved to the septic systems. Inside, we are putting up ceiling frame and running electrical wire. The hospital has recently received more staff from the government, so these houses will be in high demand as soon as they are ready to move into. We also have a small house under renovation for a new addition to our missionary team: Nina from South Africa!
Chitokoloki
This term we are at a school called Kayula, about a 15-minute drive away from Chitokoloki. We spend an hour there every Thursday and teach a memory verse, a Bible lesson, as well as some singing. Attendance ranges anywhere from 60-120 kids in a given week. Scripture tells us that God’s Word is seed, so please pray that this scattered seed will fall on fertile ground and produce fruit for God in individual lives and in the communities here.
Youth camps have been split up this year. Traditionally, they were all held back-toback, four camps in a row. This was done to simplify things like transportation and all the set-up required for a camp. But this year we are trying to hold different camps at different times of the year. Senior boys and girls camps happened in April, with a good turnout. The speakers were good and many campers earned a first prize in memory work (learning John 10:1-30). Probably one of the most encouraging and hopeful things about camp is hearing young person after young person recite words like, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give to them eternal life, and they will never perish.” Please pray for them. Junior and intermediate camps will be in July and August, including one more camp that has been added to the calendar this year: a second junior girls. Please pray for these upcoming camps.
Please pray for Chitokoloki Hospital in general, that the Lord will provide the necessary people to fill different roles, and if it is His will for things to continue here (as they have for many years) to give a definite sense of call and purpose to all involved in the work here. “Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it.” Ps 127:1
Sunday 12th
VENEZUELA San Carlos
Things haven’t changed dramatically since the 3rd of January when America removed the president and set up another one. But hopefully, with the country being under American supervision, the situation will eventually improve. Most believers still live in poverty and blackouts for several hours are very common, but at least gasoline is more readily available and there is complete freedom to travel and preach the Gospel.
We had one week of Bible readings in Guamito in the state of Barinas, on New Testament churches in the Acts. My brother Allan is very much missed in this big state where there are only five assemblies and no commended worker at present. Pray for full-time workers in this vast state. Guamito is just a village, but the assembly which is over 50 years old has around seventy in fellowship. They had a conference at the weekend, and four were baptised on Saturday night.
Last week we sought to help one of the oldest assemblies in the country, the original assembly in Puerto Cabello, with Bible Readings on scriptures related to marriage and the family. Several other assemblies suspended their meetings to be present. Although we would much rather be preaching in new areas, the elders pleaded with us to consider the real need of spiritual help on this subject, and expressed their appreciation for taking the time to be with them.
There are so many assemblies wanting ministry meetings or Bible readings that all the full-time workers could easily spend the year occupied in this alone, and neglect pioneer work. Truly the harvest is great and the labourers are few. My brother Kenneth has made a marvellous recovery from the brain haemorrhage which caused his fall, but is still not able to help as much as he used to. Pray for his full recovery.
There are two places which we have visited with texts and tracts and would like to preach the Gospel. Baquira is a village ten minutes further on from El Pao where we have laboured for several years. We found some folks there who had heard the Gospel in other places and know the order of our meetings. Aguadita is a small town which we have passed by many times, but have never made a Gospel effort there. We are just starting to visit the houses and have found good receptivity. Please pray that the Lord will open a door in these places to have Gospel meetings.
C. 2000 (Venezuela) ANDREW & ELENA TURKINGTON 26/5/26
Kenneth
Monday 13th
NEW ZEALAND
In January we started the year with some involvement in a Gospel outreach from the assembly in Orewa, Auckland, where we are based. The interest was encouraging, with unbelievers coming in every night. A good number of believers from a variety of assemblies joined us over this summer/holiday period.
In February, we travelled to the capital, Wellington, for a weekend of ministry meetings in conjunction with the local assembly at Miramar.
During March, we visited South Africa where we had both ministry and gospel meetings in various assemblies in the Western Cape province. We returned to New Zealand just in time for the Easter conference in the South Island of the country.
We were invited to the 2026 Cooroy conference in Queensland, Australia during the first weekend in May (a long weekend in the region), where I was joined by brethren from Melbourne, Brisbane and Canada.
May is usually a busy time in NZ, with three weekends of conferences in a row, at Palmerston North, Wellington and Dunedin (South Island). At the time
Orewa
Orewa, Auckland
Some of the saints at the Miramar Gospel Hall
of writing, we are in the South Island for the Dunedin conference, as well as ministry meetings at some small and isolated assemblies in Balclutha, Timaru, Geraldine and Waikari.
Prayer points:
• Gospel work in NZ in general and in Tokoroa in particular (a small town in the North Island), where a regular weekly gospel work is conducted by a nearby assembly in Mangakino
• Preservation for young men who show a great interest in getting involved in assembly life.
• Young brothers and sisters to continue in their zeal for spreading the gospel in NZ.
• That God might raise up workers to labour in both the gospel and Bible teaching/ministry.
We are very conscious of our weakness and the need to depend upon the Spirit of God for this great work we are involved in. We do need your prayer support for the work in NZ. “Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die.” Rev 3:2
MARIUS & YVETTE MINNAAR
26/5/26
Miramar, Wellington
Tuesday
14th
NEPAL
Writing from N. Ireland
It is with sincere gratitude that I write on behalf of many assembly believers across Southern Asia who have been helped and greatly encouraged through the practical support and faithful prayers of believers in other parts of the world whom, though they may never meet on earth, they look forward to meeting one day in heaven.
Nepal’s New Reality: Prospects and Challenges
The post-Gen Z movement in Nepal looks promising. The new government is introducing several bold policies and reforms. However, the immediate impact has been difficult for many including believers.
In Kathmandu, old illegal settlements have been demolished. Seven Christian families fellowshipping with the Bhaktapur assembly have become homeless. The government may relocate and rehabilitate them in the future, but one major concern remains the continuity of fellowship.
The Aiyabari assembly in eastern Nepal was planted among a community where none of the villagers possess registered land. Though the settlers had cleared the forest and lived there for years, land mafias later registered the land in their own names. It is a complicated and common issue in many parts of Nepal. If demolition ever takes place, the entire community, including the assembly hall, may have to be relocated. At present, the believers find such a possibility hard to imagine.
In Damak, two schools saw large-scale dismissal of teachers after investigations revealed years of financial corruption by the management. A believer, Smita, lost her job despite no fault of her own, as fresh recruitment interviews were conducted under the new administration. Smita and her husband Dinesh have been actively serving the Lord in and around Damak.
Fuel prices have risen sharply, from around Rs 160 to nearly Rs 270 per litre, while inflation continues to climb. Overall, the assemblies in Nepal are doing well. A major relief came when the government declared Sunday a school holiday. Many churches gather on Saturdays because Sunday remains a working day. Assemblies in eastern Nepal meet early on Sunday mornings for hurried breaking of bread meetings before work. Believers now pray that the Sunday closure will eventually extend to other government offices as well.
A foreign missionary in eastern Nepal was recently deported from the country. Hundreds of missionaries continue to operate discreetly under various forms of cover. How the new government will deal with them remains a matter of deep concern. Over the past six months, 333 foreign nationals have reportedly been arrested for illegal activities while staying in Nepal on tourist or business visas. The increased scrutiny has also raised concerns about its possible impact on missionaries serving quietly in the country.
CHARLES DAVIDSON
16/5/26
Wednesday 15th
NICARAGUA Correos Managua
The assembly in Managua, the capital city, was exercised to work together for a week of Gospel meetings. Tony Flett shared the week with several local brothers and we were encouraged each night to see family and friends attending that the Christians had worked hard to invite and bring along. While we never heard of anyone trusting Christ, we pray that the gospel messages preached and the many personal conversations had, will yet be used by the Holy Spirit to convict of sin, bringing souls to rest in Christ for eternal salvation.
We were five days in the North of the country around Easter time at a beautiful farm with 160 youth who were participating in team events, Bible learning, and meeting others from around the country. Oscar, Mitch and Mark shared in the teaching to the youth. Mark also had three sessions for dozens of married couples who were there to lend a helping hand during the event.
Tony and Mark shared in a week of Gospel meetings just after Easter week in Dolores, the first place we lived as newlyweds 22 years ago. We are thankful for Esmeralda (a young lady that our daughter Elisa befriended and witnessed to during Easter week) who trusted Christ alone in her home after the very first meeting. There was excellent attendance from Dolores and support from Jinotepe. We believe souls were saved and others gained assurance of salvation.
The first weekend of May is Labour Day in Nicaragua, and Brenda and I hosted a twonight retreat for the commended workers from Honduras. We enjoyed good food, fellowship, hymns, and some activities based on 2 Corinthians 6 as we contemplated what we have experienced in our decades here in this beautiful country. We also looked at the promises found in Scripture that are our foundation when we face trials and tribulations like Paul did. It was a wonderful time together and we are so thankful for the blessing that it was.
C. 2004 (Canada) MARK & BRENDA BACHERT 16/5/26
Thursday 16th
MALAYSIA Sarawak
We thank the Lord for continued opportunities for the preaching, teaching, and sharing of His Word across the large state of Sarawak in East Malaysia. Over recent months there have been encouraging openings among students in both schools and rural communities.
The map shows some of the areas where the Lord has allowed us to labour over the years. As we continue reaching students with a Christian profession in public schools, we are presently exploring opportunities to use Postal Bible Studies lessons from Manitoba, Canada, particularly in rural areas where Islamic influence is less prominent. We hope these materials may help native students improve their English while also bringing them into contact with the Scriptures.
There continues to be spiritual interest among younger people. One rural student from the Penan tribe, while working hard on her secondary school studies, eagerly gathers nightly with other believers to sing Christian hymns in Malay and listen to the Word of God being shared. Many such young believers long for deeper understanding of the Scriptures.
A brother and sister in our assembly also host a weekly gathering in their living quarters for professing Christian teachers working in the same school. Devotional thoughts are shared together, and there is a sincere desire among many to know the text and teaching of the Bible better and deeper.
We were encouraged on Easter Sunday evening when, after many conversations concerning the gospel, one young girl of 13 years of age expressed the desire to
trust the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation, saying, “I want to be saved now.” We value prayer that this profession may prove real and lasting.
One dear sister in the assembly has also been conducting online Bible studies with a female first-year college student who has recently professed faith in Christ. We are thankful for opportunities to encourage younger believers in the faith.
Prayer is also appreciated for fellow labourers, Amin and Alice, in the town of Sri Aman, where a new assembly was formed late last year. There is interest among several families in the nearby town of Betong, where Bible studies are being planned in the homes.
A Nigerian brother, who has lived in Kuching for many years and is presently pursuing PhD studies, recently attended our Easter meetings with his mother and two young daughters. They are seeking a permanent spiritual home where the children may grow in the teaching of the Word of God.
Prayer would also be appreciated for wisdom and strength as we seek to continue visiting rural schools and more distant town schools in the months ahead. In particular, prayer is valued for the Long Bedian area, where difficult road conditions have delayed a planned visit. While there is encouraging openness to the Scriptures among many younger people and teachers, there remains a great need for careful grounding in the Word of God and consistent biblical fellowship.
C. 2007 (Malaysia)
JOHN & SUSAN SEE 26/5/26
Friday 17th
ALBANIA
Gjirokaster
Thirty years ago, Marijan Bernarda Nihof witnessed something that deeply moved her – the quiet struggles of single and divorced mothers trying to raise their children in the face of poverty and uncertainty. She saw not just need, but courage and she felt called to respond. In 1996, she founded The Hiding Place – a place of refuge, hope, and new beginnings for those women.
Since 2000, this mission has served as a residential home for children without parental care. Over the past 26 years, 78 children have found more than just shelter here – they have found belonging, care, and a place to call home. We are profoundly thankful to God for allowing us to walk alongside these children and families on their journeys. And from the bottom of our hearts, we thank every person who has stood with us through prayers and unwavering support, helping to make these past 30 years a story of hope, love, and transformation.
We strive to build a nurturing home where every child feels safe, cherished, and empowered, with the support they need to grow with confidence and hope for the future. We are currently caring for 12 children between the ages of 5 and 13. Most of them have been with us for more than two years, and for some, The Hiding Place is the only home they have ever known. We also continue to support our older boys, who, during the school year live in another Christian centre for children up to the age of 15. Although they are no longer with us full time, they remain a very important part of our family. We are deeply thankful to God for all that He has done in their lives, and we continue to pray that He will guide them as they make important decisions about their future, completing the good work He has begun in them.
Dion (Aged 6)
He came to us three years ago with two older sisters, Bernarda (13) and Paulina (9). Both of his parents struggled with alcohol addiction, and he grew up not only in poverty but also in a highly violent environment. As none of their relatives were able to care for them, the state took the children into custody, and they were placed with us. Despite everything he has experienced, Dion is a sweet, smart, well-behaved, and gentle young boy. Please pray for Dion and his sisters, that they may grow up healthy, that God may heal their hearts and minds, and that they may learn to rely on Him.
Ajla and Ambra (Aged 5)
Our sweet little twins came to us when they were just four months old. They were suffering from malnutrition and lacked proper hygiene and care. Both of their parents have mental disabilities and live in a remote village where income mainly comes from raising livestock or emigration. When social services became involved, they recognised that the family environment was not suitable for raising children. They arrived with us four years ago.
After a medical check-up, we discovered that Ajla had a heart condition that had previously gone unnoticed. She has a hole between the ventricles and for two years was under medical treatment. Over time, she has improved significantly. She is no longer taking medication and is doing well. God has a plan for these children. Please continue praying for our little ones, and give thanks that God gave them a caring family at The Hiding Place.
Prayer Points:
• Continue praying for our children’s spiritual and physical growth, peace, and healing from God in their hearts and minds.
• For all of us who are working with them that God may give us tranquillity, wisdom and a caring heart.
• For provision from God for all our needs.
Update from DORJOLA at THE HIDING PLACE
Saturday 18th
AUSTRALIA / VENEZUELA
Visit to Venezuela
25/5/26
Brisbane
I recently visited my home country, Venezuela, for one month in April. This was my fifth visit since settling in Australia in 2004 and my longest in eleven years. While based in Valencia, I also briefly visited believers in Caracas, Maracay, Merida, and La Guaira.
I was constantly reminded of the strong foundation laid by the pioneers (mostly from the UK) and of the importance of continuous gospel outreach and the teaching of New Testament principles. I observed the assemblies’ dedication to weekly children’s work and their zeal for preaching in homes, tents, and the open air despite
Ajla & Ambra
Eccl 5-8
ongoing challenges. Although food and medicine shortages have eased, life remains difficult for many due to low wages and constant power outages. Regardless of these hardships, believers make great efforts to attend assembly meetings and remain actively involved in the work.
In Valencia, I had the privilege of helping at the 100th Easter Conference and sharing the preaching for one week at the tent meetings on the city’s south side. This outreach is expected to continue for at least two months, and the brethren are working very hard every evening.
Back in Australia
Over the last three weekends, I have attended three conferences here in Queensland. The first, in Bundaberg, was only two days after my return; I was then encouraged to help with the following two conferences in Cooroy and Dallarnil, and the Lord gave help. I have also enjoyed being home for a couple of weeks and helping with the weekly Bible readings on Wednesday evenings at the Conference Hall and visiting other assemblies in the area.
The work with the Spanish community continues, and we pray for the visitors who attend regularly. Three of the brethren who used to help with the preaching (including one who was saved through this work) have moved to other cities, but they still make an effort to come and support the work here.
In the will of the Lord, I will be in South Australia for the last two weeks of May, visiting two small assemblies in that area. We are also praying about a potential visit to Papua New Guinea (PNG) at the end of June, and for Gospel meetings in South Oakleigh (Victoria) in July.
Please Pray For:
• The gospel tent meetings in Venezuela.
• The visitors attending the Spanish-language meetings in Brisbane.
• The proposed travels to PNG in June and the meetings in Victoria in July.
Sunday 19th
ANGOLA Camundambala
Thank you so much for your prayers for us and for the work the Lord has given us in Angola. We deeply appreciate your fellowship in this vital way, and it is a great encouragement to us.
We are thankful for the progress made towards the completion of the new hall at Camundambala. A major step forward came with the visit of Jonathan Meek who, together with Horano, was able to tile the entire floor within four weeks. Only a few minor tasks remain, and we are hopeful that by August we will be able to begin meeting there. New latrines have also been built behind the hall and should be completed soon.
Camundambala Assembly
As the assembly has grown, the demands on the three elders have naturally increased. It has been encouraging to see them working closely with younger men and sharing responsibilities. This is particularly noteworthy in a culture where youth is often overlooked and age tends to dominate. From what we observe, the Lord is clearly raising up future elders among them, and for this we give thanks.
In a couple of weeks 19 young people are expected to be baptised at Camundambala. Most have come through the Sunday School and are already involved in various Bible class groups within the assembly. We pray that they will continue faithfully with the Lord.
Our five weekly Bible study classes continue, as do Horano’s two classes each week. This work is steady and consistent, laying foundations which we trust will encourage many of these young people to walk with the Lord and become active within the local assembly.
Brian & Debbie
New hall at Camundambala
We are thrilled to see the dedication of the Sunday school teachers, week by week, preparing the lesson and really working with the children to bring the gospel to them. Numbers are not huge but manageable for the four young people who do this work.
We recently revisited the idea of starting a Bible class group for some of the young girls who had professed salvation. Previous attempts had not been successful – first because the group was mixed, which culturally did not work well, and later because many of the girls could not read well, if at all. As a result, they were not receiving the same consistent level of Bible teaching as the boys beyond what they heard in the assembly meetings. Sadly, in recent years too many have drifted away, fallen into moral sin, or begun relationships with unsaved young men.
We therefore invited 12 girls for a reading assessment, and we were amazed and encouraged that every one of them could read well with understanding. We have now completed 12 weeks of teaching and are praying that the Lord will use this to shape lives and help these young women grow into those who desire to serve Him faithfully.
Primary School
It did not take long for us to realise that these 12 girls had all come through our primary school. Despite the disappointments we continue to face with the head teacher and several members of staff, this has given us fresh encouragement. We still have not been able to replace the head teacher, although there does appear to be a little progress following recent conversations with the Department of Education. We know that the school could be greatly improved if we had a head teacher who was motivated, enthusiastic, and had a genuine vision for the school. Please continue to pray that we may soon see the Lord’s hand at work in these circumstances.
Medical Post
Our small medical post continues to serve the local community and surrounding area. As neither of us are doctors or nurses, there is little more we can do than supply medicines for the nurses working there. Thankfully, medicines can still be purchased in Saurimo.
Both the medical work and the school are areas that urgently need someone called of the Lord to take up the challenge they present. There is enormous scope, need, and opportunity, but unless someone is willing to learn Portuguese and commit themselves to the field long-term, there is little more we can presently do beyond continuing faithfully in supporting these works. C. 1993 BRIAN & DEBBIE HOWDEN 14/5/26
Primary School
Camundambala Sunday School
Monday 20th
ANGOLA Camundambala
Beyond Camundambala
In April, I visited a Chokwe-speaking region called Lubalo in Lunda Norte. I was accompanied by Lenguela, an elder from Camundambala, and Lucas, who has been attending Bible class for many years. It was a valuable time of fellowship and labouring together, and once again gave us reason to thank the Lord for His work in their lives. We trust that the teaching given was a help and encouragement to the believers there as they continue in their witness for the Lord.
The journey to Lubalo was extremely difficult. Only Land Rovers could manage the mud and steep climbs, and at times the water reached the windscreen. A couple of days after returning, the Land Rover engine suddenly stopped in the centre of Saurimo. After being towed back to Camundambala, Horano discovered that the stop solenoid on the injection pump had failed. Once again, we had reason to thank the Lord that this had not happened during the journey to Lubalo.
We continue to visit neighbouring assemblies once each month on Sundays. It is difficult to describe just how much even a brief visit helps to maintain relationships and encourage the believers who have little fellowship. Taking younger brothers with us from Camundambala has proved worthwhile over the years. It has helped them appreciate the depth of the need among their own people and reminds them how greatly the Lord has blessed the assembly at Camundambala.
Literature Work
We currently have a good stock of Bibles, but with only one container arriving each year, supplies can diminish quickly. The greatest challenge is finding Bibles that cost less than £5 each. We have to purchase them from Brazil and once transport and customs costs are added, the final cost is closer to £15 per Bible – very expensive for the average Angolan. We are deeply grateful for the work of the Angolan Literature Fund, which purchases and subsidises Bibles to make them accessible.
The Emmaus work in Luena is slowly progressing, with 132 people now doing the correspondence courses. The Emmaus room is also where we sell Bibles and other literature. This has helped make the courses more visible and accessible.
Increasingly, Jacob (who has overseen the printing work for many years) is becoming involved in all aspects of the literature work. Once again, he is proving to be the Lord’s provision for what is needed, and for this we are deeply thankful.
Humanitarian Work
Deep generational poverty shapes daily life here. We live among these people and are in fellowship with many of them. They are our neighbours, and the Lord has
Jacob who runs the printing facility and oversees the literature work with us
placed us among them. Therefore, although the daily needs are so overwhelming, we seek to do what we can to help meet even some of the many needs.
The reality is that these dear people live by subsistence farming – a daily hand-to-mouth struggle simply to feed their families. They have no reserves or government support. Chokwe people are generally proud people, so when they ask us for help, it is usually because they are truly desperate.
Please continue to pray for:
• The completion and opening of the new hall at Camundambala.
• The 19 young people preparing for baptism.
• The Bible classes.
• Wisdom regarding the primary school and the need for a new headteacher.
• Safety and encouragement in travel to distant assemblies.
• The continued supply and distribution of affordable Bibles.
• The Emmaus correspondence work.
• Labourers for both the medical work and the school.
• Wisdom and provision in the ongoing humanitarian work.
C. 1993 BRIAN & DEBBIE HOWDEN 14/5/26
Tuesday 21st
ZAMBIA
S of S 5-8
Chitokoloki
It’s hard to believe that I’ve been in Chitokoloki since March. Although I’ve visited Chit many times over the years, it has been such an encouragement to come here full-time and receive such a warm welcome from everyone.
When you arrive in Chit, you hit the ground running. Dr. Rachel Deyermond and her niece, Dr. Chloe Deyermond, arrived at the same time as I did. We landed in the morning, and by that evening we were already in the hospital helping with an orthopaedic surgery marathon. Patients sat waiting in the corridor for their turn, and while they waited, gospel messages were played by video. Please pray that many would hear the truth of the gospel and respond to it.
At present, we have 30 nursing students with us. This provides a wonderful opportunity, as we hold devotions in the hospital twice each week. Today, after devotions, the students stayed behind and each received a small gift containing two gospel tracts and hygiene items. We pray that, alongside the practical skills they are learning, they would also receive the far greater gift of salvation through Christ.
We also recently held a girls’ camp attended by more than forty girls and a few girls professed to trust the Lord as their Saviour. Life at home can often be very difficult, so please remember these girls and their families in prayer, that they would remain steadfast in their faith.
Please continue to pray for the work at Chitokoloki, especially for the gospel witness in the hospital each day through personal conversations, gospel messages over the PA system, and the distribution of gospel tracts.
C. 2026 REBEKAH HEELHAM 14/5/26
Wednesday 22nd
SOUTH AFRICA
Cape Town
It was a shock recently to hear of the sudden passing of an elder from one of the local assemblies. He was very well known and had a bright testimony among many, both at his workplace and among the believers. It is estimated there were about 500 people at his funeral at which the Gospel was faithfully preached. We trust that there will be blessing among the many unbelievers who attended. Please pray for his widow, a faithful sister and for the salvation of his only child, a teenage girl. I have been privileged this year to have fellowship with that assembly in preaching, both in the hall and in the open-air, and in door-to-door literature distribution. I was responsible to preach at the baptism of a young man there who had been prayed for over many years. His wife and sister were at the meeting but are still not saved.
It has been a great encouragement to go back to preach at a factory where I used to go. It had been closed to me for a while. Although many work there, not many attend the lunchtime meetings. However, a few unbelievers come along. Pray that we would know of them being saved.
Over the last couple of months, I have been having one-to-one Bible studies with a Christian from Malawi. I have known him for quite a few years. I supply him with copies of the Precious Seed magazine which he passes on to Christian contacts. He doesn’t have much Bible knowledge and struggles with English. However, he is learning and is enjoying our times together in the Word. It is great to see his expressive reaction when he learns something for the first time.
Northpine Assembly has a regular children’s meeting on Sunday afternoons, and it has been very encouraging to speak to these children. Most of them come from a poor neighbouring area with much crime. We thank the Lord that some of them have trusted the Saviour over recent months. They are being helped with lessons for new believers. Pray that they will be preserved and go on well for the Lord.
Recordings continue at Cape Pulpit radio station, and the messages are broadcast to a wide audience weekly. At present I am doing a series of messages on the people of faith in Hebrews chapter 11. Pray that there will be a positive response by people believing in Christ.
Lunchtime Gospel Meeting Attendees
Thursday 23rd
MOLDOVA Zirnesti
We give thanks to God for continued open doors in Moldova.
One ministry that has been growing rapidly is the Postal Bible School. The number of children completing the Bibletime lessons continues to rise. Several new schools have been willing to have a ‘red box’ placed in their school and have actively encouraged their children to take part. One of these schools was a result of the school director seeing the lessons in the literature tent at the Christmas Festival. She asked us to include her school and invited us to promote the ministry to the entire school, with the result that almost every child in the school has enrolled! She then mentioned the classes to another director of a nearby school, which led to CMI placing another ‘red box’ in that school. (As the postal system is most unreliable in Moldova, CMI has worked out a method of running its own postal system in schools, by placing a ‘red box’ in a place where children can post their completed lessons any time. These schools are visited at a given time each week, when the completed lessons are picked up and marked lessons returned.)
In another school where this ministry has been running for three years, we recently realised that the director was not only diligently promoting the courses among the children but was herself doing the course! In May this year we were able to visit the school and present her with a gift and certificate on the completion of all the courses in the program. She has much interest in the Bible and has asked for more literature and to talk more about the Bible! Please pray for the children doing the Bible lessons and for this director. Pray that their eyes will be opened as to their need and that they will turn to the Lord Jesus for salvation.
We have also seen some encouraging responses to the booklet ‘God’s Answers to Man’s Questions’ by William MacDonald that we recently translated and printed in Romanian. Many were distributed at the Christmas Festival last year. We were encouraged by the feedback that it is particularly useful for people with a religious Orthodox background, answering many of the questions that they often ask. One of the first responses was from the lady working at the Government Printing Office in Chisinau, who prints our literature. She always reads our material before it goes to print. She rang the CMI office one day in great excitement and was keen to talk about all she had learned from this booklet, and how it answered many of the questions she had about the Bible. It is exciting to see God using the written Word to open people’s eyes to their need for the Lord Jesus.
We are now preparing for our busy Summer Camps season. From June through to mid-
One of the Summer Camps
August, we will be holding nine camps. This includes two English Immersion Camps, five children’s camps (aged 6 – 12) and two youth camps (aged 13 +). We are expecting about 1,000 children to come across all the camps. Please pray for the camp period, especially for safety for children and camp workers and for a clear presentation of the Gospel to the children. Please also pray for the Gospel outreach to parents that will be held at the end of each camp week.
Youth camp provides the opportunity for some very fruitful discussions and studies
C. 2004 (Australia) MATTHEW & RUTH HILLIER
Friday 24th
SOUTH AFRICA
25/5/26
Isa 9-12
Please pray for us as we relocate to be nearer our daughter and son-in-law. After spending 43 years in this part of South Africa, it will be a huge change. Leaving the fellowship of dear believers, both English-speaking and Zulu saints, will not be easy, but the Lord has clearly indicated to us that this is His will for us at this time. In the will of the Lord, we hope to move early in July. Please pray also for the little assembly that we leave behind. We look to the Lord to raise up godly overseeing brethren to care for the flock. We certainly covet your prayers for physical, emotional and spiritual strength in the various aspects of moving (1 Thess 5:25).
Perhaps the most surprising reaction to our having to move has come from some unsaved individuals with whom we have developed a rapport over the years. We look to the Lord to awaken them to a sense of their need of the Saviour.
We are eagerly anticipating the visit of two speakers from N. Ireland: Mr Paul McCauley and Mr David Williamson. They kindly agreed to come and spend two weeks with us sharing the gospel, commencing next Lord’s Day the 17th of May, God willing. Please join us in praying for a time of reaping.
In particular, we would value prayer for a Men’s Breakfast, scheduled for the 23rd of May. This takes place at 7.30 a.m. We usually get between 30 and 50 unsaved men attending. They enjoy a cooked breakfast, which is followed by a short gospel message. We would love to see the hand of the Lord made bare in salvation; please pray to this end.
World events have not become more peaceful over the past few months. We are assured that the “coming of the Lord draweth nigh” Jas 5:8. His promise is sure: “He that shall come, will come, and will not tarry.” Heb 10:37.
We thank God for the faithfulness of saints who have been praying for us over the years.
C. 1968 PAUL & DOROTHY GRIEVE 11/5/26
Saturday
25th
HONG KONG / SINGAPORE Writing from N. Ireland
During the months of February, March and April we were once again back in the Far East. Several of the places visited were repeat invitations from 2025, and some were (for us) a first-time visit. Helen and I were blessed with preservation over many thousands of miles and time zones and with no health problems either, for which we give thanks to the Lord and acknowledge the prayers of His people.
Hong Kong
We commenced our journey back to Hong Kong for the 2026 ‘Chinese New Year’ Conference. It was good to see an increase in the number at the conference, as well as additional believers from mainland China, and new attendees from Taiwan assemblies. The conference was held again in the YMCA Salisbury Hotel, a designated venue for such activities with scripture texts in the lobbies etc. We were also able to visit Tsuen Wan, Tai Po and Austin Avenue assemblies as well as Mong Kok, the convening assembly for the conference.
From Hong Kong we flew to Australia (detailed in the following report) and on the return journey we stopped at Singapore for our final meetings of the trip.
Singapore
These final meetings were, for us, a first visit to Tyrwhitt Gospel Hall in downtown Singapore. The assembly had asked for a ‘Bible Teaching Weekend’, from Friday to Monday, with a chart on ‘End Times’ topics. Saturday and Lord’s Day were all day activities with meals provided at the Hall and the interest from the young believers especially was most encouraging.
Singapore is an incredible metropolis and to see a flourishing assembly close to the city centre is a real testimony indeed.
Pray for these city centre assemblies – in Australia also – distance is not their difficulty, but lifestyle and the pace of a city working day in the ‘Central Business District’ does add much challenge to regular attendance and spiritual progress.
We had to reroute via New Delhi and Heathrow to get home, due to the activities in the Gulf, but the Lord allowed arrangements to be made at very short notice, and we arrived home a little later than planned but safely and with all bags in attendance. Even in these details we see the Lord’s hand in being ‘before and behind’.
C. 2004
DAVID & HELEN McKILLEN 27/5/26
Tyrwhitt Assembly in Singapore, April 2026
Sunday
26th
AUSTRALIA / TASMANIA / NEW ZEALAND
Queensland
Following the conference and meetings in Hong Kong we flew directly to Cairns, north Queensland, for meetings in Innisfail. Although a relatively small assembly, there are quite a few younger believers in fellowship and a thriving young people’s work among the local community. The mothers of the children are encouraged to attend along with their kids, and a hot meal is served to all each Friday evening.
Writing from N. Ireland
We then stopped for a short visit to Mackay (a small assembly about 400 miles further south) and enjoyed fellowship with the small company. From there we travelled to Rockhampton where the variety of meetings was excellent. We were joined by Stanley and Iris Irwin (from Toowoomba) and as well as five days of meetings in the Rockhampton Gospel Hall there was also an outreach meeting at Joskeleigh, previously a ‘slave village’ during the plantation era. Many of the South Sea Island people remained and there is a small Gospel Hall and a well-attended weekly gospel outreach work in Joskeleigh.
A very profitable Bible Teaching Weekend in Bundaberg on ‘Assembly Gatherings’ followed. These meetings were well attended with support from outside the local assembly. The Lord intervened in a wonderful way as the weather had been of ‘monsoon’ levels for the previous weeks and the day before we were due to arrive the local river burst its banks and flooded into the town, including the Hall grounds. Power was off for three days, but the meetings went ahead, and the electric was restored during the afternoon just before the Friday night first meeting.
Tasmania
We then flew to Tasmania for gospel meetings in the Myalla Gospel Hall, with support from the Upper Burnie and Ridgley assemblies as well. David and Meryl Delley also flew
Young believers from Innisfail Assembly, QLD Gospel Hall at Joskeleigh near Rockhampton
down (of the Australia Bible Van Ministry), and David joined with me in the gospel. The response from the neighbourhood was small, but unsaved were present at every meeting and from the leaflet drop several Bibles were requested and two ladies have since started to attend regularly. Please pray for three young men who were present almost every night. (One is a foreign exchange student – the gospel was quite new to him, and he is hearing it in his second language).
Sydney
The Bexley Easter Conference at Sydney came immediately after; three days of well attended meetings and good numbers of young believers including some who flew in from the north island of New Zealand. Other meetings were held in the Gosford and Lidcomb assemblies around Sydney.
Auckland
We then flew to Auckland for a week and had some profitable meetings in the Orewa assembly (where full-time workers Marius and Yvette Minnaar are in fellowship), as well as spending a little time with our boys who are resident in Auckland.
We appreciate the prayers of many of the saints who remember us – and communicate with us – in our labours.
Monday 27th
SRI LANKA
Isa 23-27
Writing from N. Ireland
The world and its problems are changing at a remarkably fast pace, which surely should remind us increasingly of the reality of the Lord’s soon return. It seems to be one crisis after another, many of which are having a direct effect upon the Lord’s people. This is especially true across parts of the Asian continent, where ongoing difficulties surrounding LNG gas supplies, cooking fuel, and transport costs continue to place real pressure upon daily life.
It is largely because of these present circumstances that I felt it necessary to cancel my planned visit to Sri Lanka, which was due to commence on 12/5/26 and included several gospel and ministry responsibilities. Both the assemblies there and I have naturally been disappointed, as fellowship together and even simply being present among them has always proved a real encouragement. However, we remain in regular contact with the believers and continue to monitor the situation carefully, seeking to help in any
C. 2004
DAVID & HELEN McKILLEN
Brethren at Myalla with D McKillen & D Delley
practical or spiritual way possible. We would greatly value your continued prayers for the assemblies and for the ongoing opportunities and challenges facing the work in these regions.
Cyclone Ditwah that hit Sri Lanka approximately five months ago caused unprecedented destruction in the island. The cyclone brought catastrophic floods and landslides that swept away homes and entire villages. 643 people were killed and 173 people are still missing. The floods caused more destruction in Sri Lanka than the 2004 tsunami, which was one of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history. Compared to the 2004 tsunami, the loss of human lives was significantly less but in terms of damage to infrastructure, cyclone Ditwah caused even more harm than the tsunami.
Believers that were affected by the cyclone are struggling to recover. Those who had homes damaged have not received the promised compensation that they were expecting. Large numbers of believers who are farmers were severely affected by the floods and muds that swept through their lands. They are struggling to recover as fertiliser is not freely available due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Sri Lanka imports between 90% to 100% of its fertiliser requirements. The little fertiliser that is available in the country is now being sold at exorbitant prices. Higher prices will lead to reduced usage and ultimately lower crop yields.
The war in the Middle East could not have come at a worse time for Sri Lanka. The country was just beginning to recover from an economic crisis and bankruptcy that happened four years ago when the cyclone occurred. Now the war in the Middle East has brought shortages of fuel and gas which is having a devastating impact across the entire island. The government has had to ration fuel and increase the fuel prices. Electricity costs have also gone up by nearly 40% resulting in the prices of goods increasing as well.
Sri Lanka’s heavy reliance on imports has made it particularly exposed to global price fluctuations. The country imports approximately 63% of its energy needs. With oil and fuel prices at four-year highs, this has resulted in price hikes in every sector pushing the people further into poverty.
In 2025, Sri Lanka seemed well on the road to recovery with the highest number of tourists visiting Sri Lanka during that year. With the start of the war in the Middle East, the Middle Eastern airlines (which bring most of the tourists to Sri Lanka) had to reduce their services to the island, causing a huge downturn in the number of tourists arriving. Tourism is the largest foreign currency earner for the country. The loss of tourism earnings has a severe impact on the nations finances and has resulted in the government increasing the taxes on imported vehicles by 50% in mid-May 2026, to reduce the amount of foreign currency leaving the country. The country seems to be spiralling downwards and for the people there does not seem to be any light at the end of the tunnel.
Yet amid all the uncertainty of our times, the believer’s confidence remains unchanged: “The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe.” (Prov 29:25)
CHARLES DAVIDSON
15/5/26
Tuesday 28th
ENGLAND Hampshire
The words of Asaph in Psalm 78 “shewing to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done” is a timely reminder that we are surrounded by a generation growing up in the world with little knowledge of our God.
At the end of March our home assembly at Millbrook in Southampton held a week of children’s meetings. We had good attendance over the week from our usuals, and we also had three new children come along. These three have continued to attend our weekly Bible Club. Please pray for the ongoing work among the children and teenagers, as well as a further campaign planned for the end of August.
In April we were with the saints at Four Marks for their Easter Holiday Bible Club. Again, we were encouraged by the attendance of the children and their enthusiasm and attention during the meetings. The saints in the assembly put a huge amount of effort into the week and were encouraged by the interest shown.
At the end of April we returned to the village of Preston Candover for our third children’s campaign in the village hall. We held a week of after-school Bible Clubs and had a further seven children we had not seen before in attendance, along with some who had come previously. We were greatly encouraged by two of the girls (aged 10 and 11) asking for Bibles and wanting to be shown how to find the books, chapters and then the verses. It was wonderful to have fellowship in the work once again with Jonathan and Ruth Singleton (Four Marks) and Shane and Annie White (Bracknell) along with several other local saints.
In May we attended a Home-Ed Camp at the Hampshire Christian Trust’s superb site at Lockerley Water Farm, Romsey. We had about 30 children in attendance and held children’s meetings each day for them. The ongoing support and activities for Christian HomeEd families in Hampshire and the surrounding counties, organised by some of the local believers, continues to be a blessing to so many.
Please continue to pray that through these activities many of the next generation might truly fulfil the desire of Asaph: “that they might set their hope in God”.
Children's Campaign at Millbrook, Southampton
Home-Ed Camp at Lockerley Water Farm, Romsey
Wednesday 29th
AUSTRALIA
Digital reproduction of the Newberry Study Bible – Psalm 119:160
With the gracious help of the Lord, work has been underway since August 2017 to digitise the “Englishman’s Study Bible” by Thomas Newberry, most commonly known as the Newberry Study Bible. The primary objective of the digitisation project is to create a digital resource from which high-quality printed Bibles can be reproduced at will, either as a replica of the original, or as new editions with enhancements to text layout, font family and size, page margins, pagination, and various other formatting options. The digital reproduction additionally supports reading on computers and mobile devices, as well as ‘print on demand’ technology, making the Newberry Study Bible more accessible to believers throughout the English-speaking world.
In August 2024, digitisation of the entire Newberry Study Bible was completed and since that time, work has focussed on proof-reading, correcting digitisation mistakes, improving consistency in margin notes and referencing, and fixing mistakes discovered in the original edition. Work has also focused on creating new and improved page layouts for both wide and standard margin editions.
At present, the digital reproduction of the Newberry Study Bible contains 1656 pages and includes the following features:
• Thomas Newberry’s OT and NT introductions.
• All symbols and formatting (bold words, emphatic pronouns, underscores, etc.).
• All LHS margin cross-references and dates.
• All RHS margin notes.
• All NT footnotes.
• A dictionary of people and place names (with Scripture references) and their meaning or alternative rendering suggested by Thomas Newberry.
• Maps of the journeys of Abraham, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Apostles Philip, Peter and Paul.
• A table of the offerings, from Craig Munro’s book “The Five Principal Offerings.”
Note that the Hebrew and Greek glyphs in the LHS margin have not been digitised, except for the names of each book. Should there be sufficient demand for an edition with Hebrew and Greek margin notes, further digitisation will need to be undertaken.
Lord willing, the present goal is to have new printed editions Dictionary of proper names
available sometime near the end of 2027. Until that time, work will focus on proofreading, reproducing Thomas Newberry’s diagrams for the tabernacle and Solomon’s temple, and creating additional maps and tables. Based on over 200 responses received from the questionnaire (still available at: https://forms.gle/5E2zMxLLY8YfspJm6), decisions will be made on the final set of options for the printed editions.
Sincere thanks to Ian and Maggie Oh (Melbourne) for their unstinting support, editing and proof reading, Gideon Khoo (Malaysia) for his help with clarifying various matters relating to the Hebrew and Greek symbols and margin notes, and Bryan Stewart, Leslie Craig, Andrew Ware and Peter Shephard for their helpful guidance and suggestions.
Please pray that our gracious God will continue to prosper the work until its completion, and that He will grant us the needed wisdom in navigating the decisions and solving the many challenges. Please also join us in praising the Lord for ever giving us His Holy Word.
ROGER & MELISSA FRASER
Thursday 30th
Your Five for Today (Five minutes of Spiritual Inspiration Broadcasts)
Isa 36-38
Since Radio Tircoed finished broadcasting our ‘Daily Messages with Meaning’ we have been praying for the Lord to open new doors with other Radio Stations. This prayer has been answered “over and above all that we ask or think” proving that God’s capacity to act, answer prayers, and fulfil His purpose is far beyond human imagination, prayers, or hopes.
We contacted various new stations by email over the last two months and quite a few have responded positively, making the last few weeks very busy.
Turnaround Radio has started to broadcast 24/7 and they not only have our 5-minute messages playing on a regular basis throughout the day but also on automation overnight. In addition, several of our hour-long programmes are in their weekly schedule.
HeartSong Live informed us that they would be broadcasting our 5-minute messages twice every day, but because of the way their system is set up our messages are actually going out at least 5 times every day.
Gospel Radio contacted us on 27th April very keen to share our messages and after a telephone conversation started using them the following day playing our 5-minute
messages at 7.00am every day and our hour-long “God’s Love on the Radio” programme at 10.00am every Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Country Gospel Radio responded to our email by saying, “Please could you tell me a little more about your542day? I liked the messages I listened to, and from what I heard on the Gospel, we seem to align doctrinally.” After an exchange of questions and answers they downloaded 320 messages from our website and added them to their rotation, playing on average 12-15 times per day.
As you will appreciate, we are truly overwhelmed that the Lord has expanded the audience numbers exponentially in such a short space of time. Praise the Lord! “The Lord has done great things for us; whereof we are glad.” We are planning to make monthly hour-long programmes to be available from July 2026. Please pray for this new project that the Lord will help and guide in writing, producing and recording the programmes.
We’ve also been actively sharing the story of Your542day more widely. A Press Release has been sent to several local newspapers across South Wales. We’re also grateful that the British Church Newspaper has kindly given us space in their June, July, and August editions. Alongside our advertisement, the editor generously offered us 400 free words for an article in June – another unexpected opportunity to share the heart of the ministry.
Over the past few days, our CDs and materials have been displayed at the Devon County Show. With more agricultural shows taking place over the summer, we anticipate similar stalls carrying resources and helping us reach new people.
David and I have also had several personal conversations recently with individuals and churches who have expressed real appreciation for the ministry – some sharing how the messages have helped them personally, others recognising the potential for Gospel outreach in their own settings. “Bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Ps 34:1
DAVID LISCOMBE & PETER FRANCIS 23/5/26
Friday 31st
ALBANIA Shkoder
Summer is almost here, and next month we have a small number away at junior camp. Then we have a two-week holiday bible club each evening, and in early August a larger group of teenagers will be away at senior camp. Elida is heavily involved in organising the bible club, but it is good to also see others taking on some of the responsibilities. Usually, we have had a lot of children of believers helping at the holiday bible club, but a good number are not free this year. Last year we used our teenagers, but many are from non-Christian families, and a good number have summer jobs. Please pray for the final organising for the holiday bible club and for the gospel as it is preached at both camps.
It was very encouraging to have three baptisms at the end of last year and four earlier this year.
Colin is meeting with those that teach to give some guidance in preparing messages. This is a lot more time consuming than if he were to prepare the messages himself, but hopefully it will reap its fruit and be helpful to others. He also has a reading group and they are studying together by reading through “Knowing God” by J I Packer. This is to try to develop some of the men in their theological understanding of the bible. He is also discipling two young couples.
Elida is also involved in discipling. She has a small group of three girls who have just recently been baptised, and she also meets with the mother of one of our believers, going through Mark’s gospel with her. This woman has indicated that she believes and wants to be baptised, as does one of our teenagers from a family that used to be in the assembly. This is encouraging and we give thanks to God for this.
While meeting with the couples to disciple them, we have repeatedly noticed that the same words heard from Jesus evoke completely different reactions. Some receive the message with joy, some reject the message and Jesus, while some receive and reflect on the truth of the message.
“He came to his own, and his own did not receive him. But as many as received him, to them he gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in his name.” John 1:11-12
Elida’s mum had a stroke in November, but she is back on her feet and can do almost everything as before except cook and clean. Her memory is also not so good. She has lost a bit of confidence, but we are thankful to God for her recovery. We appreciate your prayers for us and the work in Albania.
C. 1997 COLIN & ELIDA STEPHEN 28/5/26
C=Date of Commendation
Published by:
LORD’S WORK TRUST 42 Beansburn, Kilmarnock KA3 1RL
