August 7, 2017
Dear Partners in Ministry,

Getting to Know Luke 

I remember like it was yesterday. Rachel, who was doing research in traditional Chinese medicine while in Boston, introduced Deb and me to Luke, her husband. This was the first time Luke attended a gathering of believers, so he did not know what to expect. Surprisingly, his heart was strangely warmed as he experienced Christian fellowship and worship.  That Easter Sunday, Luke stayed late into the afternoon entering into substantive  conversations about things eternal.

Studying the Word Online 

After Luke returned to China, we began studying the Bible together, beginning in Genesis, and slowly moving through the Bible. Luke calls himself the problem boy who always asks questions. His questions were intuitive, searching, and insightful, which enabled him to think through the Christian worldview and the claims of Christ.

Faith Comes

Our online video conferencing study continued for over a year, but eventually Luke responded to Christ in faith. Recently, when Deb and I visited China, we had the opportunity to visit Luke and his wife, Rachel. Now Rachel has become inquisitive about God and the Bible. Deb currently meets regularly with Rachel online to study English. This study will now be based upon the Bible.

Gospel Opportunities

While in China, Luke escorted Deb and me to a famous restaurant and a historical market. The restaurant, with which his family is connected, has hosted many world leaders. The market where it is located is a gathering point for all of Asia. Notice, that by ministering to Luke, possibilities for global gospel proclamation have increased.

Please Pray for Luke and his Family

Luke placed his faith in Christ and Christianity despite living with very difficult circumstances. He did so, understanding that believing does not remove one’s problems, but does give resources to live victoriously through problems.

Luke’s father is dying of cancer, his mother has a very bad heart, and his business venture is doing very poorly. Luke is struggling to be a faithful son, husband and father, and, at times, life seems overwhelming to him. Luke needs a church home and the strength to continue living. Will you pray for Luke?

 This is Great Commission ministry.

Pray for us,

Bill and Deb
Praise & Prayer
Thankful for a life of ministry

1. Deb and I are very thankful for our co-workers, Toby and Susan Stevens. Toby is now our pastor, even while I remain a mentor of his–an interesting relationship. 

2. We are looking forward to a year of reporting to our supporters and raising new support. This will also allow us to spend additional time with Deb’s parents in Iowa.

3. An IBC member recently commented that we have exceptional interns this year. Actually, we have had many excellent interns. We are very thankful to God for His provision.

4. We are indeed thankful for a very busy and productive trip to China.

5. God continues to teach us and equip us for more effective ministry. We love our God and are thankful for the privilege we have of serving Him.

Support Needs   

Monthly Support
We need more than $1,000.00 a month of new support. Since the IBC has called a new pastor, they have ceased to support Deb and me. Also, we will need more money for ministry expenses (the IBC paid a large portion of this). In order to care for this need, we will be reporting back to our supporting churches throughout this coming fall and next spring. Please contact me if you would like to schedule a meeting this fall or in the spring of 2018.

There is obviously room for new supporters to join us in this blessed ministry. Would you consider getting the word out to any Great Commission Christians who might be interested in joining our financial team? 

Actually, we are not alarmed about our lack of support. Having experienced God’s provision for 40 years, we, with excitement, l
ook for His provision.

Press on Support Needs in order to find more information on how to give. Press on the sub-headings for information on the individual projects.

Please let me know if you are giving to a particular project.