Two men saved!

Altar Cristiana celebrates five years—Guayaquil pastor, Gustavo Viejo, led the church in an anniversary celebration Friday, Sept. 3. After a lively musical worship time, Tom spoke to the congregation on Hope. The service was followed by a great all-church meal of pork and rice with salad.

Bible Institute students advance—Our six students completed their first trimester of theological studies recently. All are doing well with many receiving a 100% (straight A’s) for the trimester. They are a bright hope for the future of the Wesleyan ministries in Ecuador.

Men responding to God—From the beginning of Tom’s acceptance as interim pastor of the ICW in May, he felt compelled to target men as a priority. Praise God, He is answering our prayers. In the last two weeks two young men have accepted Christ as Savior and another was delivered instantly from a nicotine addiction. Here is a sketch of their testimonies:

Edison: This young man is quite shy, but on August 29, at the close of the service, his mom, a new convert herself, walked to the front of the tent to accompany him in giving his life to Christ. Edison is attending services and weekly Bible study. He’s talking more now, as he begins to feel more comfortable in the church family.

Walter: A young man who was raised Catholic and just completed the catechism, has been attending our services, and has gotten very involved with the youth group. Walter is a guy with tons of questions for anyone who will give him the time. He’s been searching sincerely and recently told Lydia, “I am thinking about becoming a Christian, and need to know more about it.” This was followed by another barrage of good questions. A few days ago, Walter excitedly shared with George Wuertz the following testimony, “I feel strange inside. It’s like…it’s like Jesus is living inside of me! I want to read stuff now that I never wanted to read before (the Bible).”

Jorge Luis: As a husband and father, Jorge has been seeking a deeper walk with God for many months. A smoking and nicotine addiction has smothered him with guilt. He recently began smoking much more than usual. But…..(here is his testimony he gave me Sunday) “I felt the Spirit of God come on me. I began to tremble, I felt something inside (placing his hand on his chest as he spoke). I felt very light, like I was floating. God took away all cravings for tobacco instantly. I wadded up my remaining cigarettes and threw them away. That was four days ago and I have not had any desire whatsoever to smoke again.” When Jorge Luis told me that, I gave him a high five and we praised God together. We agreed he would share this testimony with the church body next Sunday. I can’t wait. One of our other guys who is struggling with smoking already asked him how he did it. Good things lead to more good things in God!

PEOPLE ARE BEING SAVED AND DISCIPLED

THAT'S WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT!

Meeting in the new building: The ICW congregation is now meeting in the new RMC building for worship, weather permitting. We are in the coldest months of winter right now so we still have to go back to the tent on the coldest Sundays.

Discipleship group: Our ICW disciples are continuing to meet each week. Winter vacation time (like your “summer slump”) has affected us, but not severely. We are just three weeks out from completing the first set of classes. Testimonies have been good and our people are growing. Pray for us as we observe this group and look for future leadership potential among them.

Missionary/National Leaders Meetings: We were privileged last week to have our area director, Jarvis Ferguson with us. Also, Jim and Lori Rice and Isaac Thompson (missionary appointees), along with Pastor Derek Atkinson and layman Carey Johnson of the Lawrence, Kansas Wesleyan Church were here. We spent several days in Cuenca, holding meetings with our present missionary team. Time was spent in orientation activities for our missionary appointees. We also worked on steps to strategic planning for our four-family missionary team of the future. Last Thursday evening, we all met with our Guayaquil pastors and Bible institute students for dinner and a time of getting acquainted. Jarvis Ferguson shared a short devotional on the leadership principles of King David. The meeting closed with a good time of prayer.

Women’s Prison: Lydia is coordinating the launching of a new ministry in the women’s prison here in Cuenca. Please pray for her team of ladies and their training which will take place Aug 27-29. That weekend will the kick-off event at the prison also.

RMC construction: Work has been on hold at the RMC due to a lack of funding, but is scheduled to resume Aug 17.

Women’s outreach book study: Sheree Wuertz is close to finishing a book study with her women’s group. God has been using this study to draw many women into a better understanding of God and also of themselves. Pray for lasting fruit from these studies.

Fighting the good fight of faith

Discipleship Class ICW—We’ve had three sessions now and each time has been unique and blessed. Last week, one new convert confessed to the group that he has a gambling addiction. We all promised to pray for this bondage to be broken. This week, he testified that he had had a great week and that he only yielded to temptation once. We cheered him on.

Byron (a car salesman) shared how tithing used to be a chore for him. It was hard to part with “his” money. “But now,” he testified,” Its exciting to think Sunday is coming and I will get to give my tithe.” He shared that from each of the last five cars he has sold he has tithed his commission. Now that’s getting down to real life!

Westview team—A great youth team is here from Manhattan, Kansas. They are working on the construction and holding special youth outreach activities. About 16 of our ICW youth showed up for the first event. Pray that Westview’s presence will revitalize our small youth group.

Guayaquil all-church youth outing—The Westview youth joined our Guayquil youth for an all-day outing to the Pacific coast beach last Saturday. The bus was packed out and youth from all churches but one participated.

BECAUSE OF INTERNATIONAL TRAVELS THE BLOG WILL BE UPDATED THE NEXT TIME ON JULY 12.

God answers prayer!

ICW photo Apil 25, 2010

Guayaquil Youth—A youth team from Westview Community Church in Kansas will arrive Wednesday to hold youth leadership training, a children’s day activity in Fortin and an all-church youth outing to Salinas beach. Pray for safety and effective ministry while the team is here.

Discipleship underway—The new discipleship group from ICW met for the first time last Thursday. Ten people had signed up and ten people showed up. Tonight we will meet for our second session.

New family—Alex, our student pastor at ICW took Tom to the home of a family he had contacted just last Sunday. They visited Olga and her daughter, Patricia, in their home again this Sunday afternoon. I wish you could have heard Olga’s testimony of how much Alex’ visit had meant to her the Sunday before. She told how she had been so depressed that she had gone to the doctor. She said that after Alex visited with her, and shared words of encouragement, that her week went just great. She was marveling at how much peace she sensed in her life. God is putting together so many new connections with people we can hardly keep up. Obviously He has great plans for the Racar community and the church He is building there.


Another great Sunday at ICW—Joyful worship, testimonies of answered prayer and new faces and an attendace of 55! It’s all part of what happened yesterday at ICW. Nancy gave testimony that just last Sunday she requested prayer for three things—and they were all answered during the week. In her words: “I just want you people to know that the prayers we pray here are not in vain. Last week I requested prayer for and needed guarantor for a business loan—we obtained the guarantor. We needed approval for the business loan—we got the loan. I asked prayer for my parent’s health—my dad (who lives in another town) actually called me to tell me that he is doing much better. God does answer prayer!”

A new married couple was there for the first time yesterday. Also, David and Priscilla, a young couple who was 24 hours away from signing divorce papers just four weeks ago, have been at every Sunday service since they came for counseling a little over a month ago.

God is building the church with families. TEN MARRIED COUPLES WERE PRESENT IN WORSHIP YESTERDAY! Of the adults present, fifteen were women and seventeen were adult men. We are targeting men and families, and God is sending them in.

The Sunday afternoon sports activities saw about 25 people (mostly guys) enjoying a soccer match on our field. Really good body life!

"Come, follow me."--and they did!

I am celebrating the launch of our first discipleship group at ICW. Although one-on-one connections have been active for some time, last night was our first meeting of the 10 people who came forward in Sunday's service to commit to "true discipleship". The group has grown to 14, not counting me and Lydia. God is transforming lives, right before our eyes! Praise Him!

Look What God Is Doing!

Teachers’ Workshop in Guayaquil—Lydia traveled to Guayaquil Saturday for the last in a series of initial teacher’s workshops. She attended a special children’s day activity at FERTISA (Dios Es Primero) on Sunday morning then traveled to Cuenca Sunday afternoon. The workshop went well.

New ministerial students doing well—Pastor Juan reports that all five students are doing well in their theological studies. They carry a heavy load of seven classes per week (three nights) along with their weekend ministries in the churches and their secular jobs and family responsibilities. They need lots of extra strength to keep up the pace. Pray for these who are giving their lives into God’s service.

New families at Dios Es Primero—Pastor Juan reports that two new families have begun attending the church this month. He said, “We are not going to fit in this building much longer. We might have to turn this into a school and get a bigger place to worship.” Keep dreaming God’s dreams, Pastor Juan!

Westview Community Church Team—A youth team from WCC will arrive in Ecuador June 9 to hold youth activities and youth leadership training in Guayaquil June 9-12. They will travel to Cuenca to work some on the construction for their remaining time until their departure on June 22. While in Cuenca they will focus on youth ministries with outreach/fellowship activities planned almost every night. They will lead the ICW service Sunday June 13.

ICW discipleship group to launch June 3—A week ago Sunday Tom preached on “true disciples” and called for a public commitment. Eight came forward and two later joined. This week two more were added. We will meet for our first session this Thursday. Pray for a hunger for God’s Word, and that deep “want to” spirit that drives growth in new converts. Pray for Tom as he leads.

Women’s prison ministry committee—Since making a first visit to the Cuenca women’s prison under the prompting of Janet Wolfe, (a visiting member of the Heritage Wesleyan team that visited earlier this month) an open door for regular ministry there has been opened by the director. The committee met last night and Sheree led them in a discussion. There is interest in such an outreach on the part of several ladies of ICW, but there is also a sense there must be a clear mandate from God for such a work to evolve. At the heart of that mandate, there must be a passionate, God-directed leader who must come forward. So far, we do not have that leader. Pray for God’s direction.

Surprise prayer—Byron took us all by surprise yesterday. He and his wife, Nancy, along with their two children started attending ICW sporadically several months ago. Byron has struggled in his work situation and, if he showed up, he always seemed down and out. No smile, no joy. Last Sunday, Byron came forward to say he wanted to be a true disciple of Christ. Yesterday he was one of the first ones at the “church” (tent). He looked different—smiles and a cheerful attitude. I said, “Hey Byron, would you help receive the offering this morning?” He said, “No, not me!” He then pointed a finger at his wife. She pointed back to him. They were both goofing off and playing shy. Javier is in charge of the ushers and when he asked Byron to help, Byron accepted. Unknown to me was the fact that our student pastor, Alex, had asked Byron ahead of time if he would have the prayer for the offering. Byron did not want to do it. (He is a shy person by nature). At offering time, as Javier and Byron stood ready with the offering bags, Alex asked Javier to pray. Immediately and unprompted, Javier said, “Let Byron pray.” I guess Byron had decided by that time that, shy or not, he WAS going to do it. He stepped to the mic and led a prayer that sounded as if he had been around church for years. It was a good, heart-felt prayer. I had been preparing to show a video as soon as the offering started, but had not really noticed what had been transpiring in regard to the offering. Suddenly, I heard an unfamiliar voice praying—it was Byron! I was shocked-and overjoyed. After service, Byron was helping us tear down the chairs and sound equipment. He came up to me and said, “That was the first time I ever did THAT!” (Referring to his leading a public prayer). I thanked him for his service and the satisfaction in his accomplishment clearly shined through.

Testimony of near drowning—Here is one of four testimonies shared at ICW yesterday: Nancy de Lopez, (wife of Byron, above) shared a testimony of her life being saved a few weeks ago. While in the Amazon area of Ecuador on a family outing, she slipped on mossy rock and fell into the river. Nancy does not swim. She pleaded for help and Byron tried to save her. He failed to pull her out. An onlooker jumped in and also tried to rescue her. He nearly drowned trying. Nancy testified, “At that point I turned to God and cried out for Him to save me. I then passed out. Suddenly, I felt someone pulling me by my hair. It was Byron. He pulled me out, but I know it was really God who saved me!” Thanks God (and Byron!)

REVIVAL FIRES ARE BURNING AT ICW—BETTER NOT COME AROUND IF YOU LIKE YOUR SPIRITUAL STATUS QUO. GOD IS SHAKING AND WAKING ALL OF US! I SAY—BRING IT ON!

Three Ladies Accept Christ!

During Tuesday's book study under Sheree's leadership, three women who do not attend the church, but do attend the book study, accepted Christ as Savior! Pray for these new converts.

Gobs of good news!

Bible institute classes—It is reported that all five Bible institute students are doing well, getting into the groove of spending three hours, three nights a week in class. They seem thrilled to be advancing in their ministerial preparation. We are certainly thrilled to be making this investment in the future of the work in Ecuador.

Sheree Wuertz ill—Although not anything extremely serious, Sheree Wuertz has been battling respiratory allergies and a mean sinus infection that developed into bronchitis. She has seen gradual improvement in the last few days. Pray for her quick recovery.

Great progress on RMC—Thanks to the hard work and generous donations of a team of six volunteers from Heritage Wesleyan Church of Rock Island, IL, the large bathroom area of the first floor is nearly all walled in. The septic tanks are in the ground and will be connected this week.

They're still coming!—Although they have completed seven chapters of the book study (Captivating, by John and Stacy Eldredge) that Sheree Wuertz is leading, more women joined for the first time last week, bringing Tuesday afternoon’s total to 11! God is bringing hurting women into this circle to bring healing. Pray for us to be able to keep up with all the opportunities that are opening up.

Ana Lucia still smoke-free—Ana Lucia gave Tom a big hug on Sunday and said “Thank you so much for the church's prayers for me. I almost yielded to the temptation to go back to smoking this week, but I didn’t.” She confessed that she was “dying for just one puff.” Continue to uphold her in this battle against 40 years of tobacco addiction.

New ICW disciples—Attendance was good yesterday with a total of 54. There were 37 older youth and adults and 17 children. (the number of adult/youth attending has almost tripled since January!) Tom preached from Matthew 4 yesterday, making a call for “true disciples.” At the close of the message he called for those who were willing to study the Bible, spend two hours each week in a discipleship class, obey God’s Word, leave any sin behind and become obedient followers of Christ to come forward. Hoping for at least two or three, it was awesome to see eight people make a public commitment to be disciples. After the service, two others joined. FIVE WERE ADULT MEN! They signed up for discipleship classes after the service. Now, we face the big challenge of working out times and schedules to get them all started. (I love that kind of problem!)

Teachers Prepare For Lesson Series

Nube and Laura came to our home this evening to prepare for a new lesson series on the Apostle Paul. They both recently voluteered to teach our children of ICW. What a blessing it is to see how much they are growing through their teaching. Their commitment is admirable. Several weeks ago Laura came forward after the Sunday morning message. I asked her if there was anything I could pray about for her. Without missing a beat, she said, "We are too passive and we are not doing anything to serve God in the church. I just want God to show me what it is He wants me to do." I just love those open-hearted prayers. I wish you could see Laura and Nube pouring their hearts into the teaching each Sunday. I think they have found their niche. Dear God, thank you for these ladies who love you and love the kids they teach every Sunday. Bless them, I pray!

VOLUNTEERS INSTALL SEPTIC SYSTEM AT RMC

Six volunteer workers from Heritage Wesleyan Church in Rock Island, Illinois have installed a septic tank system for the Racar Ministry Center. Their hard work means that soon we will have our new bathroom facilities in operation. (Hear all the ladies cheering?!)

The RMC will serve as our national center of operations for the Global Partners ministries for all of Ecuador. It will provide a worship/meeting area, bathroom/showers, storage room, kitchen, laundry, four offices, a large apartment, and five guest rooms. The first of the outer walls was put up today and hopefully, we will be worshiping on the first floor by the end of June.

Pray for safety as our volunteers finish their week on the project then participate in Sunday worship with testimonies and preaching.

FIVE NEW BIBLE INSTITUTE STUDENTS!

Rejoice with us that two lay couples started a three-year ministerial degree program at the MIZPA Bible institute in Guayaquil this week. Nino and Pilar are currently lay co-pastors at the FORTIN Church. The other couple is Juan Carlos and Diana Cruz. They are from our "Dios Es Primero" Church in FERTISA, and have worked with Nino and Pilar for several years as children's workers. We are absolutely thrilled that these two choice couples are following God's call to prepare for full ministerial service. The other student is Evelyn Cruz, a single gal from the "D.E.P." congregation. God is answering our prayers for workers to be sent into the harvest fields. Keep praying!

Prayer and weeping--victory and laughter!

This pretty much describes last night's pastors' workshop in Guayaquil. Early on a pastor confessed he was feeling alone and discouraged. Everyone gathered around him, laying on hands and praying for God to lift him up and encourage him. Tears flowed down Pastor Nino's cheeks as he led us in prayer. God met us and moved on us to strengthen this struggling pastor. After the prayer, the prayed-for pastor said, "I felt like I was alone before, but now I know I am not."

One pastor confided to the group that he had been in disobedience and had not been tithing faithfully for some time. He told how he had made the decision to believe God for his needs and set aside his tithe. He stood up, held up his leg so everyone could see his shoe. He then told how a few days ago he was helping another brother when suddenly his worn-out shoe "blew out" with the sole flapping. The Christian brother with him walked him into a shoe store where he bought the pastor a new pair of sneakers. This same pastor told how he had not had enough money to buy his children the required school uniforms to start the new school year. The people of the church became aware and provide the uniforms. On an even more exciting note, he told how he had spoken to a neighbor last week, and Sunday she showed up at church and was saved. Another lady also prayed to accept Christ. Three other people gave their lives to the Lord across town at the FERTISA church, bringing the total number of those saved last Sunday to five!

As we studied and planned for May's stewardship emphasis, we found time to have fun, enjoying the many outbursts of laughter. It was just what it should be. The family of God--working together, loving Him and loving each other.

McGrady Farewell, New Interim Pastor--Tom Hines

McGrady farewell Sunday—Yesterday we celebrated the ministry of the McGradys at ICW. Fifty-four people attended. There were 33 adults, and 16 of them were guys. Lydia preached the message on repentance. A group of men gathered around Ned and Tom for prayer as Ned passed the baton to Tom as new interim pastor. Several gave special words of appreciation to the McGradys and presented gifts. A five-minute video compilation of pictures of the McGradys in action during their time in Ecuador was presented at the close of service, followed by prayer.

A God-thing--Perhaps the most special gift the McGradys received yesterday is told in this story. As Ned and Tom carried the nice wooden pulpit across the muddy lot to set up in the tent, Ned commented, “Well, here is the Absalom pulpit. I guess we won’t get to say goodbye to them.” (Absalom had crafted the pulpit for the church, and his wife, Gloria, was one of a handful of neighbors from Racar that attend the very first Bible study meetings at the McGradys house in early ’09.) Gloria had served as treasurer before they moved to the south side of Cuenca and started attending a different church because of the distance. They eventually moved to Quito to start a business. As Ned and I set up in the tent, a motorcycle came down the lane with a lone male rider wearing a helmet. Ned took a second look and said, “That looks like Absalom!” (Absalom never regularly attended the church before, and this rider was alone on the bike.) Soon Gloria came walking down the lane behind the bike. (The lane is a little treacherous with two on the bike.) It was Absalom and Gloria!

That is a neat story in itself, but as we conversed after service we discovered that this couple has moved back to Cuenca. And most interesting of all, they did not have any idea that the McGradys were moving to Home Ministries assignment and that this was their last day at the church. Everyone sensed that this was a God-thing and used it to bless us. Hopefully, the fact that Absalom and Gloria came to the service, means that they will be coming back to ICW as regular worshipers.

Racar Ministry Center construction—The steel studs for the wall of the storage area went up this last week. The walls should be up before the end of this week. This will allow us to store our chairs and sound equipment on site, which will make setting up for services in the tent much more convenient. A team of six to eight volunteers from Heritage Wesleyan Church in Moline, Illinois will be arriving May 9, and will work on the installation of the septic tank. We should have minimum bathroom facilities within the next several weeks.

All-church dialogue—Next Sunday we will announce date and time for a series of all-church dialogues in which we will gather to talk over, in-depth, the future development and direction of the church. This will be an opportunity for us to hear how our people would like to see the church evolve in its second year. We will share ideas, goals and strategies, and in particular, our plan for organized discipleship of new believers, with special attention to determining who will be part of the first leadership nucleus. We will also formulate a financial plan for contributing toward the RMC project. We currently have $1500 targeted toward the project and hope it will reach at least $5000.

VIDEO: Tom's installation as interim pastor

New missionaries appointed; Four believers baptized!

Cuenca, Ecuador

Boy, do we have news this week!…..

Not one but two!—Two couples have just been appointed to serve as long-term missionaries to Ecuador. They are Jim and Lori Rice, of Tuscaloosa First Wesleyan Church, and Isaac and Amy Thompson, of the Lawrence, Kansas Wesleyan Church. Jim is a police investigator and Lori is an RN. They have two children, Lauren, who graduates from IWU in just a few days, and Chris, who will graduate from high school May 6. Isaac Thompson is a math teacher and Amy is an accountant. Our missionary team is very excited about the doubling of our on-field personnel, and is so grateful for all the work that has gone into making this leap forward.

Farewell to the McGradys—It is with very mixed emotions that we bid farewell to the McGrady family this week. They have been a wonderful asset to our team and were used by God in so many ways. Although we will miss Ned’s great chili and their great gifts of hospitality, our best wishes go with them as they develop and pursue more fully their pastor-to-missionaries role. ICW will hold a farewell dinner for them next Sunday.

ICW Baptisms—Attendance was back up last Sunday with 55 (31 adults/youth) present for worship. Sheree preached the message on redemption and how God takes our broken lives and restores them. The message was particularly focused toward the four baptism candidates. Following worship in Big Blue (the tent), a hired bus took us to Gualaceo (45 minutes outside Cuenca) to a beautiful park along the Santa Barbara River. Two adult ladies (Karla, Katy) and two youth (Jordan McGrady and Suco) were baptized in the frigid water as those of us on the bank sang Power In the Blood and I Have Decided To Follow Jesus. Each candidate gave individual testimony to his/her salvation. (Some of our people were seeing an evangelical baptism for the first time.) Just after the baptisms, we pigged out on charcoal grilled pork steaks and chicken along with the trimmings! Almost everyone joined in either volleyball or soccer. Another great day for the REAL church—the body of Christ.

New men—I shared in last week’s update about Juana and her growth in Christ and passionate desire to know Him more. Juana and her husband, Miguel, have been estranged for five years. He was in the USA and they had no contact. Several days ago, Miguel showed up. God has helped them begin to reconcile their marriage—Praise God! Miguel attended services Sunday as well as the baptism. Ana Lucia’s husband, Fabian, did not come to worship, but did join us for the baptism trip. That was a first. Tom spent about 45 minutes listening to Fabian talk about faith in God and his ideas regarding church. Pray for both of these men that they will literally become “new men in Christ.”

Pastor Gustavo—Tom received a call from Pastor Gustavo a few days ago. Gustavo reported that he and his family have moved back to his mother’s home, but that renovations had been done and they were now getting settled. He stated that he believes God has allowed the difficulties of recent weeks to happen in order to allow them to learn and grow. He said that the pastors of Guayaquil were planning to meet at Pastor Mazzini’s home for prayer and fellowship last Saturday night. Pray for unity among them.

RMC Construction—Each week the property looks a little different as construction progresses. The fencing is now erected. Gates will follow soon and work on the storage area will begin this week. We expect to have temporary electrical service in the coming weeks. (The ladies are still screaming for a bathroom!)

Hey….only a page and a half this week!

Tom

Update April 13, 2010--Baptism, new pastor's home

Ecuador Update
April 13, 2010

ICW: a difficult Sunday—Bad news first…right? Last Sunday was a hard one. It had rained all week and the property was a mud bog, including inside the tent. Ned and Marlene were in Mexico, so we missed them. Attendance was down to (GULP!) 19! It was a holiday and that hurt us. Some were sick. We set up on the concrete slab and service went pretty well. Because of the low attendance, both children’s church and adult worship was modified at last minute. God still worked through Sheree as she preached on redemption. We divided into groups and afterward three people shared a summary of what we had learned on the subject. Participation by those who were there was good.

Leadership development—Three leaders from Guayaquil, Pilar Rodriguez and Juan Carlos and Diana Cruz plan to enter a three-year ministerial training program in a local Bible institute in Guayaquil. They seem very fired up and ready to go. Classes begin May 3.

Moran family’s new home—Pastor Juan and Sonia Moran (FERTISA) have moved into their new third-floor home above the sanctuary. They are thrilled. For many years they have been living in a one-room apartment in a flood-prone area. All the while they have battled the seasonal flooding of their home, along with horrible mold, mud and rust. As the name of the church says, “Dios Es Primero” (God is First). They have lived out that motto over the past 11 years working hard to get the church finished first, before their home. Pray God’s blessing on them for their sacrifice.

Teacher training—Last Tuesday night Laura and Nube came to Tom and Lydia’s apartment where they received teacher training and made preparations for classes at ICW. We now have three committed teachers for children’s Sunday classes.

Baptism next Sunday—On April 18, ICW will hold its first baptism. One candidate, Katy Acuña, will be baptized. It will be a church-wide celebration with a bus trip to Gualaceo, worship on the banks of the river, picnicking, and sports. Three ladies received classes on baptism from Tom. Pray that all will soon take this important step.

Elena—One of the ladies who attended the baptism class was Elena. She has been Catholic all her life. In January, through VBS, she started coming to ICW along with her daughter, Nube. At the close of the session, I asked the baptism class students what their decision regarding baptism was, Elena spoke up and said, “Pastor, I wanted to come to this class to learn about baptism. I 66 years old, and it is only now that I am beginning to understand what it means to follow Jesus.” Her voice quivered. “Can you imagine?” she continued, “until now, I just went to Mass, and that was it. I just didn’t know about all this that I’m learning now.” Tears welled up. “I need to take care of some things in my life before I am baptized, but I want to be.” By this time she was weeping. “I will be baptized a little later when I learn more about knowing Jesus.” Even though Elena felt she should not to be baptized yet, it was a precious moment when she was expressing the “all things become new” realities of her recent conversion. Her sincerity and strong desire to be all that God wants her to be was very special.

Katy—At the close of the baptism class, Katy said, “I want to be baptized, but I want to talk to you first, Pastor.” Without violating confidentiality with details, I can tell you that Katy met privately with me and Lydia immediately following the class. She said, “I want to be baptized, but I don’t feel worthy. There are some things in my life that are not pleasing to God and I have to clear them up before my baptism. I want to be honest with God and only be baptized when my conscience is totally clear.” At this point, Katy began to weep and tremble. She poured her heart out to me and Lydia as God dealt with her, and as she confronted the need for restitution and making things right in her life. Tears flowed freely, falling from her cheeks as she asked us about what she should do. Lydia and I told her to do the right thing and obey what she knew to be right. (This was not at all a simple matter. It involved a tangle of family relationships, the father of her child and legal issues.) Suddenly, Katy sat upright, lifted her head from a bowed position and said, “OK, the decision is made. I will talk to my family tonight (it was already 8:30pm!) and I will be baptized!” It was a moment of wonderful victory. Later that evening, she called us and reported that all went pretty well. Pray for Katy as she continues to make restitution and rectify bad decisions of the past. She still has tough issues to resolve, but with God’s help she will make it.

Walter—This young man about 17, came to youth meeting Saturday. He also came Sunday morning for worship. This was unusual as Walter always goes to Catechism instead of coming to worship at ICW. Pray for his salvation.

Javier and Laura—Tom and Lydia invited Javier and Laura to lunch Sunday after worship. We spent two hours over our meal, talking about what it means to be a committed Christian. Javier accepted Christ three years ago, but his relationship had grown cold with the Lord. He started attending ICW with his newlywed wife, Laura in October of 2009. She met the Lord in July of last year. We felt God was really in our conversation and they seemed very sincere in their desire to grow spiritually. Here are some excerpts from emails Laura sent to Lydia today.

“God is hearing my prayers. I am so happy. Last night while talking with Javier, he said he is now going to become fully involved in the church, and is going to give his full support. He is the one who started the conversation.

It is important that we have a meeting of the people soon so each one can solidify their commitment and understand their individual responsibility. Let us know when the meeting is so we can motivate the people to attend.”

“The reality is that we must be obedient to the Lord. He will work in our lives and through our lives for the benefit of others.”

Lydia had loaned Laura a about Christian marriage a month or so ago. It was due to be checked back in to the library. Laura asked Lydia if she could borrow it one more week so Javier can read it.

“I want to learn more”—Juana, who recently began regularly attending services, testified Sunday in our small group that she was so happy to learn about living with God in her life. In January Juana sat in the back row in the tent, seemed very intimidated, feeling inferior and looking very expressionless. What a change God has made in her. Sunday she said “I have learned so much living the Christian life…and I like it! How can I learn more?” She told about how happy she is now that Christ is in her life and wants other to know about it. Her huge smile and now-confident manner confirmed everything she said in words.

Discipleship—George Wuertz continues to mentor the construction workers in their walk with Christ.

Fabian and Ana Lucia—Tom and Lydia invited this couple to their apartment for dinner and fellowship. It was a great time of interacting and getting to know them better. Today, Ana Lucia celebrated thirteen days of freedom from her smoking habit. We thank God, and ask for your prayers as she battles the nicotine cravings. Tonight she said, “I’ve quit before about five times, but this time it has not been so hard.” I reminded her that many people are praying for her.

We sense that we are on the verge of some real good revival fire taking our young church deeper in Him. Please pray it will be so.

Tom Hines

Update April 5, 2010--Record attendance, smoke free!

Ecuador Update April 5, 2010

Guayaquil—Pastor Gustavo Viejo reports that the Altar Cristiano Church had “marvelous” services Good Friday and Easter with an attendance of about 40. He reported that one young lady was saved.

Teachers’ workshop: Guayaquil—Lydia held the fourth teachers workshop at the Fortin Church a week ago Saturday. Participation was good and it was the first time some of the teachers from the other churches had been to Fortin. Pastor Pilar seemed very pleased.

FERTISA—The Dios Es Primero Church recently completed a 21-day fasting program. Several members fasted from 7am to 8pm each day for the 21 days, including youth. Some fasted 7 complete days without food. Pastor Juan reports great victories and a special sense of God’s moving.

Guayaquil visit—George and Sheree made a recent three-day visit to Guayaquil where they visited our pastors and churches. They contacted Vicki and Marlon (formerly major leaders at FERTISA who had left the church about 8 months ago and had gone back to a sinful lifestyle) and this key couple returned to FERTISA a week ago Sunday night. Pastor Juan said Vicki came running toward the altar and wept in repentance. It was so good to see them in the services again during our last visit. Pray they will hang on.

Pastors’ workshop—Tom held the monthly pastors’ workshop in Guayaquil last Monday night. The main discussion had to do with theological training for our pastors and future pastors. Pastor Pilar as well as Juan Carlos and Diana are planning to enter Bible Institute. There was also discussion about our upcoming stewardship month in May. Tom will work with the church leaders to assist the congregations in committing to a better support plan for their pastors. The prayer time at the close was exceptionally good. Tom challenged the pastors to meet once per month on their own, to pray and enjoy fellowship.

Easter Sunday ICW—It was another great Sunday. Worship was at 10am with a record (non-Kansas Team) attendance reported between 64 and 70. Nineteen were children and the rest were adults and youth. There were 5 or 6 teenage guys there. Tom preached from John chapter 20 on “The Seven Words of Christ After His Resurrection.” Following the service, we enjoyed a turkey dinner which was followed by a movie, volleyball, soccer, music jam, table games and lots of great fellowship. We finally left about 5:30 pm. Great body life!

Growing in Christ—Ana Lucia, a school teacher in her fifties, who was reached through Sheree’s ladies meetings a few years ago, and who only recently began attending ICW, came to Sheree’s home a few days ago and said, “Here’s $40—I am going to start giving my tithe.” We were all excited because we know “where your treasure is, your heart also will be.” This was a great victory, but Sunday, she approached Tom and said, Pastor, I have not smoked for four days!” She didn’t share with everyone, but did tell Lydia. Pray for her as she strives to break this addiction after decades of smoking. God is really working in her life, and it shows on her face. Pray for her husband Fabian’s salvation.

VBS fruits--Several people who came to the VBS held by the Kansas team in January attended yesterday’s Easter services at ICW.

Racar Ministry Center—The parking area is basically done, the fence is going up. The storage area is to be done by the end of April and the septic system with some bathroom facilities is to be ready in May. We are looking forward to the first floor being enclosed in the next few months. The muddy floor of the tent has been a little hard to deal with during this rainy season. But we’re getting there!

McGradys/Mexico and farewell—Ned and Marlene will travel to Mexico April 6 for a ten-day pastor-to-misionaries trip. Shortly after they return we will celebrate their ministry here with a farewell. They will depart Cuenca Sunday afternoon, April 25. Pray for them as they transition to home minstries.

Update March 15, 2010--Kidnapping, VBS and more

Ecuador Update March 15, 2010

ICW—Services went well at ICW yesterday with 37 people present. Nine of those were boys or men who had not been to the church before. Of the 37 people, 22 were guys. Tom preached on “You Need a Savior.” There were no seekers who came forward, but many had tears in their eyes and were deeply touched during the message. Tom was stricken ill Saturday night and was quite sick Sunday. Prayers of the ministry team were heard and Tom made it through the service. Tom believes this was a physical attack from the enemy. He is doing better today.

God’s protection—We praise God for his protection. Last Sunday afternoon, as Lydia walked alone by the river taking some pictures, a man brandishing a knife approached her and stole her camera. She was shaken, and suffered a minor cut on her hand from the skirmish, but is doing well.

The sister of Nube T., Veronica, was kidnapped last Saturday night about midnight in Cuenca. Five men carjacked her vehicle and drove her to a remote location where they began to dismantle her car. During the incident, one of the kidnappers attempted to rape her. She fought back hard, kicking, hitting and biting the attacker. He did not rape her, but beat her so violently that when her family finally found her, they thought she was dead. Fortunately, Veronica is recovering, though she needs much prayer. She had been a Christian but has drifted away from the Lord. Pray that this situation will “work together for her good.”

Guayaquil—VBS is being held this week at Camino de Santidad Church.

McGrady’s held a one-day VBS activity at the Altar Cristiano Church last Thursday. Fifty-five kids were there and it was a great success.

Manta—McGradys visited Manta for few days recently and feel there could be potential there for a future church plant. More investigation will be done to gather detailed info.

Racar Ministry Center—Thanks to the outstanding work and support of the Kansas teams, good progress has been made on the RMC. We are hoping to mount a capital campaign in the coming months to raise the needed funds to finish this building which will serve the entire Ecuador ministry. Our project manager, George Wuertz estimates it will take about $120,000 to finish the building and grounds, including the sports areas.

Family visits in Racar—Last Sunday Lydia and Tom stopped by Fabian and Ana Lucia’s home to visit Fabian after his recent accident. He is a professional coach and recently suffered a knee injury. What was to be a quick visit turned into staying for “a little soup” which turned into a full dinner. After eating together, we sat in their living room and talked about spiritual concepts. The discussion was prompted by Lydia’s teaching that Sunday morning. Both Fabian and Ana Lucia entered into the discussion and both seemed to sincerely be seeking God’s truth. We talked until after 3pm. Pray for their salvation.
Ladies’ book study going well—Sheree Wuertz is directing a ladies’ book study in their home on Monday evenings and Tuesday afternoons. They are reading “Captivating” by John and Stasi Eldridge. Pray for this study, as many of the attendees do not regularly attend our church services.

Welcome to Hines Sight Now!

For some time now Lydia and I have wanted to give you access to the latest news and prayer requests from the Global Partners ministries here in Ecuador. Now you are never more than a few clicks away from updates, photos and our current contact information.

We depend on the prayers and support of our North American friends and want to make sure you are always in the know.

If you have any special requests or items you would like to see in Hines Sight Now, drop us a line. We'd love to hear from you.

Blessings,

Tom and Lydia