|
|
|
|
October 2011 Dear Friends, This year Inmersión had an exceptional finale… We were in the food court of the airport in Mexico City. Debbie and I were totally amazed at what we were seeing and hearing. Some of the group was wiping away tears. “Adasa’s” parents and pastors were also watching what was taking place as astounded as we were. Inmersión had just concluded. For thirty days the group had lived, slept, and breathed missions. They had been repeatedly challenged by cross cultural ministry. Many lives had been deeply touched and transformed by the experience. Some were making serious plans concerning their future. By Divine appointment the last day of Inmersión was the day that Adasa*, one of the LAMM missionaries, was leaving for Southeast Asia. It also just happened to be her 27th birthday. Eight of the Inmersión group decided to go to the airport in Mexico City for a send off. * Not her real name. Adasa, who is known for being somewhat quiet and shy, began to preach when she saw the group of candidates. She told them how it had taken her five years to prepare to leave for the field, that they should remain faithful and God would take them to where He is calling them. For about 20 minutes everyone just stood there listening to her words, touched by her passion for fulfilling the call of God on her life. The experience was truly an amazing way to conclude Inmersión. Adasa is now in her adaptation process in a culture radically different from all she has ever known. Pray for her adjustment and language learning. She will soon join a team working on a Bible Translation. New Candidate Orientation This month we held the third orientation for new candidates this year. This is a time when we share in detail the policies and procedures of the agency, we get to know the candidates better, have an opportunity to minister to them and encourage them in their process. This year’s 9 new affiliates are on their way to Asia, India, Japan, Africa, the Middle East and China. Two have a call to Bible Translation. Pray for them as they seek supporters and complete their preparation for field work. Inmersión The 5th Inmersión training was held in Oaxaca during the month of July. You could call Inmersión a “Missions Boot Camp.” There were 16 this year including a family with two small children (4 and 6 years). The girls added a very interesting dynamic to the group. We were somewhat surprised that the parents decided to bring their daughters, but their response was right on target. They said, “We are a missionary family. We will go to the field as a family, and we need to have this training experience as a family as we begin to prepare for cross cultural living.” Isabel, 4, and Raquel, 6, took part in all the activities, were the star Mixtec language learners and were loved by all. August Trip In August, Bill traveled to Germany to attend the Frontiers International Council (IC) meeting. Frontiers is a ministry that is working among Muslim people around the world. LAMM is a Frontiers sending base in Mexico and we are about to send our first missionary to work with a Frontiers field team. At the IC, there were team leaders from around the world, sending base personnel, and others in leadership. It was a great time of getting to know the organization and its people. www.frontiersusa.org Before returning home, Bill spent some time visiting LAMM missionaries who are working in North Africa and Spain. It was a brief opportunity to encourage and walk with them in their context. LAMM is Growing We tell our missionaries, “you take care of sharing Jesus and we will take care of you.” I must confess that it is getting more challenging all the time. We are seeking excellence in recruiting, sending and caring for our missionaries. So far this year, 5 new LAMM affiliates have gone to fields outside of Mexico. We expect another 6 to be leaving in the next six months, with more behind them. Please pray for us as we grow: § For two to three people to be added to the staff. We are looking for the people whom God has called, are self supported, and have the necessary skills. § For additional office space. § For wisdom to be able to adapt to the growth we are experiencing. A Financial Need We praise God for the many of you who provide faithfully the monthly support of LATTW. Needed at this time are donors who would give a special offering for: § Upcoming travel needs to India (Inmersión), Ethiopia (Global Disciples International Council--Bill is the representative from Latin America) and Turkey (Frontiers Sending Base Meeting). $6,000 total § Funding for Administrative expansion needed to enable us to meet our growth challenges and be more effective. $1,000 / month Each day we give thanks for you who pray for us and give so that Mexican missionaries can be sent to the nations. We are acutely aware that alone we can accomplish nothing, but when the church comes together Jesus does great exploits in our midst. Thank you for being part of this ministry. We pray God’s rich and abundant blessings on you, your family and all that you put your hand to. Until all have heard, Bill and Debbie Rupe P.S. To request regular email updates and prayer needs please write to us at memorupe@prodigy.net.mx Check out the Inmersión video on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ugg36nvzO38 |
