Dear friends,
Thank you so much for your prayers and support of the Duke City Project. Here's a snapshot of what our ministry consists of so far...
-As of this month, the church plant has a name: High Desert Church (P.C.A.). I am currently working on obtaining our tax exempt status, which will allow us to open a bank account in January.
-We have six families committed to the church plant, with a number of other families showing varying degrees of interest. We need to double or even triple this number by August, when we want to 'launch' the church (beginning public worship services).
-While we have had two separate bible study groups in the fall, beginning in January we will have only one bible study (two Thursdays a month) while adding a new meeting, 'High Desert DNA', which will meet two Sundays a month. This DNA meeting will allow me to share my vision for the church, and give others opportunity to refine this vision and then own it for themselves.
-I just received word that a PCA church here in New Mexico has agreed to support us significantly over the next three years, an answer to prayer! I am glad to have a church on board, joining all the individuals who are supporting us financially.
When you think of us, please pray for the following...
1. That we will grow our core group over the next few months (12 families by Easter is a good goal!).
2. That God will make clear who our worship leader should be...there are a few options available but no one has definitively stepped up as of yet.
3. That our current families will grow in their excitement about High Desert as August gets nearer, and as I'm able to communicate our purpose and vision for Albuquerque.
Merry Christmas and a Happy 2011 to you all!
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
October Update
Cool weather has finally come to Albuquerque! And I'm overdue in giving you an update on our efforts to start a new PCA church in the Far NE Heights of the Duke City.
News to be thankful for...
1. Our bible studies, meeting twice a month at this point, were well attended in September and October...just shy of 20 people in October, just above 20 in September. Interestingly enough, a number of folks that came in October were new to the group!
2. We have two different men who are experienced guitar players, and each has led a bible study in worship. I'm grateful for these guys and am praying they will want to continue with us down the road.
3. I continue to network and meet new people who are interested in our church plant.
Things to pray for...
1. Two PCA churches have indicated they will likely support us in their 2011 budgets. This will likely mean that our fundraising will be finished! Please pray that these churches will come through, especially in these hard economic times.
2. By the end of the year I would like to see us with a church name, and a bank account. The name, by far, is the hardest of those two items to finalize. Pray that the Holy Spirit will lead our group to the right name, and that it will be a name people can be excited about!
3. Pray for planning for 2011. Especially as 2010 winds down (can you believe it?!), our church plant meetings will intensify and ramp up in the New Year. Pray for me to plan wisely.
4. Pray for those individuals and families who are interested in joining up with us, or at least willing to 'check us out'. Many of these folks have had negative church experiences in the past, either with church plants, pastors, or churches. Pray that I can be a good friend and pastor to these hurting people, and that any issues of forgiveness will be dealt with in a God honoring fashion, according to the Gospel of grace.
Thanks so much for your prayers and support!
News to be thankful for...
1. Our bible studies, meeting twice a month at this point, were well attended in September and October...just shy of 20 people in October, just above 20 in September. Interestingly enough, a number of folks that came in October were new to the group!
2. We have two different men who are experienced guitar players, and each has led a bible study in worship. I'm grateful for these guys and am praying they will want to continue with us down the road.
3. I continue to network and meet new people who are interested in our church plant.
Things to pray for...
1. Two PCA churches have indicated they will likely support us in their 2011 budgets. This will likely mean that our fundraising will be finished! Please pray that these churches will come through, especially in these hard economic times.
2. By the end of the year I would like to see us with a church name, and a bank account. The name, by far, is the hardest of those two items to finalize. Pray that the Holy Spirit will lead our group to the right name, and that it will be a name people can be excited about!
3. Pray for planning for 2011. Especially as 2010 winds down (can you believe it?!), our church plant meetings will intensify and ramp up in the New Year. Pray for me to plan wisely.
4. Pray for those individuals and families who are interested in joining up with us, or at least willing to 'check us out'. Many of these folks have had negative church experiences in the past, either with church plants, pastors, or churches. Pray that I can be a good friend and pastor to these hurting people, and that any issues of forgiveness will be dealt with in a God honoring fashion, according to the Gospel of grace.
Thanks so much for your prayers and support!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
October Update
Dear friends: My family has been in Albuquerque about two months now, and we really love being back in the Southwest!
God has blessed us with old friends and new, and has really encouraged us on our first few steps towards seeing a church plant grow here in the Far NE Heights of Albuquerque.
We praise God for...
-Successful networking with churches, pastors, and interested families. My sense is that the word is getting out about our new church starting...all by word of mouth, without a cent spent on advertising as of yet.
-Our family getting settled here quickly. Our sons are already busy with school, soccer, and piano lessons. We have a temporary home church in Crossroads Fellowship (PCA), where we feel welcome and nurtured.
Please pray for us...
-As our bible studies start in October. Two groups will meet, one on Tuesday nights, the other on Sunday evenings, both groups meeting twice a month. We'll be studying the book of Acts, with an emphasis on developing some of our church's core values along the way. We have a number of families interested in attending...the key is moving them from interested to coming to committed! And that takes time, and the work of the Holy Spirit.
-We will be looking to name ourselves, a significant step in the church planting process. Please pray for a name that will reflect the grace of God and the ministry we hope to have in our city.
-I am already on the lookout for a capable musician or musicians who could be our music leader as we look to launch in the fall of 2011. Pray that God will lead that man and his family to us...that is, if we haven't met him yet!
As always, thank you for your support! May God richly bless you.
God has blessed us with old friends and new, and has really encouraged us on our first few steps towards seeing a church plant grow here in the Far NE Heights of Albuquerque.
We praise God for...
-Successful networking with churches, pastors, and interested families. My sense is that the word is getting out about our new church starting...all by word of mouth, without a cent spent on advertising as of yet.
-Our family getting settled here quickly. Our sons are already busy with school, soccer, and piano lessons. We have a temporary home church in Crossroads Fellowship (PCA), where we feel welcome and nurtured.
Please pray for us...
-As our bible studies start in October. Two groups will meet, one on Tuesday nights, the other on Sunday evenings, both groups meeting twice a month. We'll be studying the book of Acts, with an emphasis on developing some of our church's core values along the way. We have a number of families interested in attending...the key is moving them from interested to coming to committed! And that takes time, and the work of the Holy Spirit.
-We will be looking to name ourselves, a significant step in the church planting process. Please pray for a name that will reflect the grace of God and the ministry we hope to have in our city.
-I am already on the lookout for a capable musician or musicians who could be our music leader as we look to launch in the fall of 2011. Pray that God will lead that man and his family to us...that is, if we haven't met him yet!
As always, thank you for your support! May God richly bless you.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
September Update
Just a quick update on how things are progressing for us in Albuquerque, and how you can be in prayer for us...
1. Moving & settling in has gone very smoothly. Our sons like their new school, soccer season has started for both of them, and we have a new puppy that we all chase after!
2. Networking has been good so far. I've had the opportunity to speak one on one with a number of folks about the church plant; we hosted an 'open house' at our new home, and had 46 adults and kids come through, many of them 'old friends' that we enjoyed reconnecting with. I also had the chance to preach at Crossroads PCA in Albuquerque, planted just a few years ago, and hope to establish a great relationship with the church and her pastor.
3. Fundraising continues to go well. I've received a number of new pledges over the past six weeks, and look forward to opportunities to speak to church leaders in New Mexico and El Paso in the near future, with hopes they will come on board and support this new work.
Please pray for the following...
1. Our first Bible study meeting is Sunday, September 12. This is the first 'real' meeting of those who are at least interested in the new church. Pray for a sweet time of fellowship and unity of purpose.
2. A good sense of routine for our family, and for me in particular. Sometimes I seem swamped with 'stuff to do', other times I am less than busy. Both Carrie and I would like to have more even schedules (this also has something to do with the puppy!). No doubt this is normal when moving to a new place, but we'd like some more normalcy...pray for this (and patience, no doubt!).
3. Opportunities to share about the church plant: this month's Presbytery meeting in Santa Fe (Sept. 24); I'm preaching in El Paso on Sept. 26; an upcoming trip to Alamogordo, NM in the fall. Please pray that more churches will come on board in support of this work, and that I'll be fully funded by Thanksgiving, in order to give full energy and focus on the ministry at hand.
Thanks so much for your interest, prayers and support!
1. Moving & settling in has gone very smoothly. Our sons like their new school, soccer season has started for both of them, and we have a new puppy that we all chase after!
2. Networking has been good so far. I've had the opportunity to speak one on one with a number of folks about the church plant; we hosted an 'open house' at our new home, and had 46 adults and kids come through, many of them 'old friends' that we enjoyed reconnecting with. I also had the chance to preach at Crossroads PCA in Albuquerque, planted just a few years ago, and hope to establish a great relationship with the church and her pastor.
3. Fundraising continues to go well. I've received a number of new pledges over the past six weeks, and look forward to opportunities to speak to church leaders in New Mexico and El Paso in the near future, with hopes they will come on board and support this new work.
Please pray for the following...
1. Our first Bible study meeting is Sunday, September 12. This is the first 'real' meeting of those who are at least interested in the new church. Pray for a sweet time of fellowship and unity of purpose.
2. A good sense of routine for our family, and for me in particular. Sometimes I seem swamped with 'stuff to do', other times I am less than busy. Both Carrie and I would like to have more even schedules (this also has something to do with the puppy!). No doubt this is normal when moving to a new place, but we'd like some more normalcy...pray for this (and patience, no doubt!).
3. Opportunities to share about the church plant: this month's Presbytery meeting in Santa Fe (Sept. 24); I'm preaching in El Paso on Sept. 26; an upcoming trip to Alamogordo, NM in the fall. Please pray that more churches will come on board in support of this work, and that I'll be fully funded by Thanksgiving, in order to give full energy and focus on the ministry at hand.
Thanks so much for your interest, prayers and support!
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Landed in Albuquerque!
Dear friends:
The Roses have arrived in Albuquerque! Carrie and I made it to the Duke City a week ago Wednesday, moved into our house Friday, and my wonderful parents in law brought Noah and Caleb to join us on Sunday. So far it's been chaotic in the new house, but in a really neat way: our stuff fits nicely in the new place, we've met a few of our neighbors, and we are absolutely thrilled to be back in ABQ!
We've also been really encouraged by a wave of giving that has pushed us very close to the $100K mark, as well as meeting up with some families interested in learning more about the church plant. We are praising God for these signs of His Grace!
Please continue to pray for us: for Noah and Caleb as they adjust to a new home, school, and for them to find friends; for Carrie and I in our new routines as wife/mother/author and husband/father/church planter; for churches to come alongside us in prayer and financial support.
We are so grateful for all your prayers and support!
The Roses have arrived in Albuquerque! Carrie and I made it to the Duke City a week ago Wednesday, moved into our house Friday, and my wonderful parents in law brought Noah and Caleb to join us on Sunday. So far it's been chaotic in the new house, but in a really neat way: our stuff fits nicely in the new place, we've met a few of our neighbors, and we are absolutely thrilled to be back in ABQ!
We've also been really encouraged by a wave of giving that has pushed us very close to the $100K mark, as well as meeting up with some families interested in learning more about the church plant. We are praising God for these signs of His Grace!
Please continue to pray for us: for Noah and Caleb as they adjust to a new home, school, and for them to find friends; for Carrie and I in our new routines as wife/mother/author and husband/father/church planter; for churches to come alongside us in prayer and financial support.
We are so grateful for all your prayers and support!
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Moving!
Dear friends and family:
As my family prepares to move to Albuquerque in the next week, I wanted to update you on our progress as we seek to begin the work of church planting in the Duke City this fall.
God has blessed your financial giving and prayers for us! Look at what has happened in the past few months:
-Nearly $91,000 has been raised
-We were able to sell our home in Louisiana, despite the chaos caused by the Gulf Oil Spill
-We were able to find a home in Albuquerque, in exactly the area of town we are 'targeting'. (In fact, the elementary, middle and high schools our sons will attend are all less than a mile away!)
Here are a few prayer requests to bring to the Lord on our behalf:
-We still have $30,000 + to raise. Pray especially that churches will get involved. God has brought us this far, so far...and I have no doubt He can raise this money!
-Pray for our family's transition to New Mexico, especially for Noah and Caleb. For me and Carrie, this is going home...for our boys, this will be all brand new.
-Pray that August will be a good month of getting settled, meeting neighbors, and getting 'geared up' for the next phase of church planting (meeting and gathering people, beginning a Bible study, etc.)
If there's any way we can be praying for you, it would be our privilege to do so!
All of God's grace to you,
Dan Rose
As my family prepares to move to Albuquerque in the next week, I wanted to update you on our progress as we seek to begin the work of church planting in the Duke City this fall.
God has blessed your financial giving and prayers for us! Look at what has happened in the past few months:
-Nearly $91,000 has been raised
-We were able to sell our home in Louisiana, despite the chaos caused by the Gulf Oil Spill
-We were able to find a home in Albuquerque, in exactly the area of town we are 'targeting'. (In fact, the elementary, middle and high schools our sons will attend are all less than a mile away!)
Here are a few prayer requests to bring to the Lord on our behalf:
-We still have $30,000 + to raise. Pray especially that churches will get involved. God has brought us this far, so far...and I have no doubt He can raise this money!
-Pray for our family's transition to New Mexico, especially for Noah and Caleb. For me and Carrie, this is going home...for our boys, this will be all brand new.
-Pray that August will be a good month of getting settled, meeting neighbors, and getting 'geared up' for the next phase of church planting (meeting and gathering people, beginning a Bible study, etc.)
If there's any way we can be praying for you, it would be our privilege to do so!
All of God's grace to you,
Dan Rose
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Moving Update
Thank you so much for your prayers and support! Just a week or so ago I received clearance from the Southwest Church Planting Network to pursue a home in Albuquerque and prepare to move to the Duke City. By God's grace, I've raised nearly $90,000 in support over the next three years, and while I hope to raise even more ($125K is the goal), that is enough for now to begin the work of ministry.
We have a contract on our house here in Houma (closing is set for July 26) and have an agreement on a house in ABQ (closing is July 29). We're praising God for the sale of our home in Louisiana as well as leading us to the new place in Albuquerque. I'll update you with an ABQ address once some of the closing 'hurdles' are cleared (inspection, appraisal, etc.).
Please pray for us in the following ways:
1) That the closing of these two houses is smooth and painless.
2) That the work of fundraising would continue...several families are still considering pledging, but have yet to make the commitment. Please pray also for churches to partner with us.
3) That I would begin to seriously plan and pray for the fall, as the real work of church planting will begin.
To God be the glory!
We have a contract on our house here in Houma (closing is set for July 26) and have an agreement on a house in ABQ (closing is July 29). We're praising God for the sale of our home in Louisiana as well as leading us to the new place in Albuquerque. I'll update you with an ABQ address once some of the closing 'hurdles' are cleared (inspection, appraisal, etc.).
Please pray for us in the following ways:
1) That the closing of these two houses is smooth and painless.
2) That the work of fundraising would continue...several families are still considering pledging, but have yet to make the commitment. Please pray also for churches to partner with us.
3) That I would begin to seriously plan and pray for the fall, as the real work of church planting will begin.
To God be the glory!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
June 12 Update
Great news! One of the two big hurdles left before we can begin our ministry in Albuquerque is about to fall.
Our house in Houma is now under contract. Closing is set for July 26. We had the opportunity to meet the couple that is purchasing our home...been married one month, new to the area, and attend a solid Baptist Church in the area and love the Lord! Praise God!
Please pray that their loan approval will go through, and that the house inspection and appraisal will occur without any major problems.
The other hurdle is that we are still short on our fundraising efforts. By God's grace, we have raised about $80,000 in pledges and gifts! Thank you to those who were able to contribute to our efforts. However, we're still short at least $45,000 from our goal. We still may be able to begin the work of ministry if we raise another $20,000.
So please pray for that $20,000 to come through. There are still a number of families that are considering investing in the Duke City Project...please pray that they will be generous, as the Lord allows. And pray that some churches will also come on board with commitments. There are two churches in New Mexico that are seriously considering how they can help...please pray for them!
What an adventure! There's a terrible recession going on, the Gulf Coast is undergoing an oil spill crisis that threatens a way of life for the people of South Louisiana...not exactly a great time to begin a fund raising project for a new church plant. And yet we've seen great generosity. And some who cannot give at this time pray for us regularly. It's a humbling experience...and I'm grateful for your generosity and your prayers. Just think, the real work begins after the fund raising is over! And we look forward to seeing our God come through, again, as He always does.
Our house in Houma is now under contract. Closing is set for July 26. We had the opportunity to meet the couple that is purchasing our home...been married one month, new to the area, and attend a solid Baptist Church in the area and love the Lord! Praise God!
Please pray that their loan approval will go through, and that the house inspection and appraisal will occur without any major problems.
The other hurdle is that we are still short on our fundraising efforts. By God's grace, we have raised about $80,000 in pledges and gifts! Thank you to those who were able to contribute to our efforts. However, we're still short at least $45,000 from our goal. We still may be able to begin the work of ministry if we raise another $20,000.
So please pray for that $20,000 to come through. There are still a number of families that are considering investing in the Duke City Project...please pray that they will be generous, as the Lord allows. And pray that some churches will also come on board with commitments. There are two churches in New Mexico that are seriously considering how they can help...please pray for them!
What an adventure! There's a terrible recession going on, the Gulf Coast is undergoing an oil spill crisis that threatens a way of life for the people of South Louisiana...not exactly a great time to begin a fund raising project for a new church plant. And yet we've seen great generosity. And some who cannot give at this time pray for us regularly. It's a humbling experience...and I'm grateful for your generosity and your prayers. Just think, the real work begins after the fund raising is over! And we look forward to seeing our God come through, again, as He always does.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Update
I just returned from a trip to Michigan/Toledo area, where I spent time with family and friends, and visited with two churches. Praise God for this time...I was really encouraged on my church visits, and it's always a treat to see my parents, my sister and her family, as well as others!
Another praise...the fund raising is really picking up! We are now north of $50K raised, with a likely possibility we will be in the neighborhood of $80K within a few weeks. I am so grateful...for the generosity of so many, as well as the scores of folks who are praying for us on a regular basis.
Alongside the fund raising, our biggest prayer need is for our house in Houma to sell. We just dropped the price a second time, and are hopeful to move sometime in July. Please pray to that end!
We serve a Mighty God! Thanks for your intercession for us and His Kingdom!
Another praise...the fund raising is really picking up! We are now north of $50K raised, with a likely possibility we will be in the neighborhood of $80K within a few weeks. I am so grateful...for the generosity of so many, as well as the scores of folks who are praying for us on a regular basis.
Alongside the fund raising, our biggest prayer need is for our house in Houma to sell. We just dropped the price a second time, and are hopeful to move sometime in July. Please pray to that end!
We serve a Mighty God! Thanks for your intercession for us and His Kingdom!
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Update
Praise God! Fund raising is gaining momentum...at this rate, when we sell our house this summer there is a fair chance of being able to move to Albuquerque and start the ministry right away...rather than take a non-ministry job while finishing the fund raising.
Pray...that our home in South Louisiana will sell soon (a great prayer target is by June 30).
Pray...that people will continue to be moved to support us financially, as well as with their prayers.
Pray...for my trip to Michigan and the Toledo area beginning tomorrow, as I visit with family, speak at two churches, and continue to seek fund raising and prayer partners.
Thanks so much for praying!
Pray...that our home in South Louisiana will sell soon (a great prayer target is by June 30).
Pray...that people will continue to be moved to support us financially, as well as with their prayers.
Pray...for my trip to Michigan and the Toledo area beginning tomorrow, as I visit with family, speak at two churches, and continue to seek fund raising and prayer partners.
Thanks so much for praying!
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
FAQ's of Fundraising
While I ordinarily stick to prayer requests on the blog, I figured I would take a paragraph or two to answer some commonly asked questions about my fundraising for the Duke City Project. (Besides, until we move to ABQ, the two dominant prayer requests are 1. We would sell our house in South Louisiana, and 2. We would raise enough financial support for the church plant to take off in her first three years. Thanks, as always, for praying!)
So, FAQ's of fund raising...
1) Why are you raising funds?
A. Because we are 'starting from scratch' with this church plant (there is no 'core group' of Christians who have already begun the church and are looking for a pastor), I need to raise funds in order to pay my salary and take care of expenses during the first three years of the church plant's life. We think after three years that the church will become self-sufficient financially.
The good news is that the Southwest Church Planting Network (plantchurch.org) has already committed $125,000 over three years in supporting us. My goal is to match that, with commitments over the next three years.
2) How much have you raised so far?
A. Counting one time gifts and pledges, we have raised $25,000 so far. I am deeply grateful to those who have given or pledged, and am looking forward to seeing many others partner with us financially.
3) What is the most effective way to support The Duke City Project financially, one time gifts or three year pledges?
A. While one time gifts are always helpful and appreciated(!), the best way to support us financially is to pledge a monthly amount over a three year period. There are two reasons for this: 1. A monthly pledge, even a 'small' one (such as $25 or $50 a month), turns into a big donation over a three year period ($25/month x 36 months is $900, $50/month x 36 months is $1800, for example). 2. A monthly pledge is an easy way to 'stay connected' with us over the beginning stages of the ministry. Each time you write that monthly check or see it electronically debited (see next question), that is a reminder that you are our partner in ministry. Perhaps that will prompt you to pray for us more regularly, keep in contact with us by email or website, etc. For Carrie and I, each time we see the receipts of those we support on a monthly basis, it reminds us of those folks and the important work they do for the Kingdom of God.
4) Is there an option to donate electronically to the Duke City Project?
A. Yes! On page three of our brochure is information on how to give...and there is a box you can check that indicates your interest in electronic giving. Fill out the form and mail it to Mission to North America (our clearing house for donations) at the address provided. Or check out MNA's website for contact information: http://www.pca-mna.org/.
As summer approaches, we are anxious to move to Albuquerque and begin the work God has called us to do. Please consider supporting us with your prayers and your finances! And many thanks to the faithful saints who have already given/pledged and to our great army of prayer warriors!
So, FAQ's of fund raising...
1) Why are you raising funds?
A. Because we are 'starting from scratch' with this church plant (there is no 'core group' of Christians who have already begun the church and are looking for a pastor), I need to raise funds in order to pay my salary and take care of expenses during the first three years of the church plant's life. We think after three years that the church will become self-sufficient financially.
The good news is that the Southwest Church Planting Network (plantchurch.org) has already committed $125,000 over three years in supporting us. My goal is to match that, with commitments over the next three years.
2) How much have you raised so far?
A. Counting one time gifts and pledges, we have raised $25,000 so far. I am deeply grateful to those who have given or pledged, and am looking forward to seeing many others partner with us financially.
3) What is the most effective way to support The Duke City Project financially, one time gifts or three year pledges?
A. While one time gifts are always helpful and appreciated(!), the best way to support us financially is to pledge a monthly amount over a three year period. There are two reasons for this: 1. A monthly pledge, even a 'small' one (such as $25 or $50 a month), turns into a big donation over a three year period ($25/month x 36 months is $900, $50/month x 36 months is $1800, for example). 2. A monthly pledge is an easy way to 'stay connected' with us over the beginning stages of the ministry. Each time you write that monthly check or see it electronically debited (see next question), that is a reminder that you are our partner in ministry. Perhaps that will prompt you to pray for us more regularly, keep in contact with us by email or website, etc. For Carrie and I, each time we see the receipts of those we support on a monthly basis, it reminds us of those folks and the important work they do for the Kingdom of God.
4) Is there an option to donate electronically to the Duke City Project?
A. Yes! On page three of our brochure is information on how to give...and there is a box you can check that indicates your interest in electronic giving. Fill out the form and mail it to Mission to North America (our clearing house for donations) at the address provided. Or check out MNA's website for contact information: http://www.pca-mna.org/.
As summer approaches, we are anxious to move to Albuquerque and begin the work God has called us to do. Please consider supporting us with your prayers and your finances! And many thanks to the faithful saints who have already given/pledged and to our great army of prayer warriors!
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Update: Between Two Worlds
Stealing from John Stott's book on preaching, I feel more and more that I am Between Two Worlds. On one hand, I am living in South Louisiana, where I have made my home the last three years. My children attend school here. We have friends here, a 'routine' here. And yet, my heart and my future are a thousand miles away, in Albuquerque. And awaiting me there is a house we haven't bought yet, along with a church that doesn't yet exist! Strange days indeed.
Please pray for me and my family in the following ways:
1) For the sale of our house in Houma. We've had some interest, but 'traffic' has slowed down the past couple of weeks. We'd love to accept an offer on the house in the next two weeks...say, before Mother's Day. Please pray to that end.
2) For my upcoming trip to Michigan, in mid-May. I'm making plans to seeing friends and family in Battle Creek, Lansing, and the Detroit area, along with talking with a few churches about support. Please pray that the trip would be fruitful in every way.
3) For my family as we live in this 'now but not yet' phase. We're called to Albuquerque, but can't leave yet. And there are still many friends in Houma we plan on contacting before our departure...many phone calls to friends around the country...please pray that we would enjoy this season of our lives, that God would open up new avenues of trust and dependency upon Him and His grace.
Thanks for your interest in the Duke City Project!
Please pray for me and my family in the following ways:
1) For the sale of our house in Houma. We've had some interest, but 'traffic' has slowed down the past couple of weeks. We'd love to accept an offer on the house in the next two weeks...say, before Mother's Day. Please pray to that end.
2) For my upcoming trip to Michigan, in mid-May. I'm making plans to seeing friends and family in Battle Creek, Lansing, and the Detroit area, along with talking with a few churches about support. Please pray that the trip would be fruitful in every way.
3) For my family as we live in this 'now but not yet' phase. We're called to Albuquerque, but can't leave yet. And there are still many friends in Houma we plan on contacting before our departure...many phone calls to friends around the country...please pray that we would enjoy this season of our lives, that God would open up new avenues of trust and dependency upon Him and His grace.
Thanks for your interest in the Duke City Project!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Update
I just returned from my second trip to Albuquerque this year. This time, Carrie went with me, as we looked at housing and make some important connections and reconnections with friends, some of whom may become part of the core group for the new church.
Please pray for us in the following matters:
1) Fundraising: That I will be diligent in presenting my vision and excitement for this new work with as many people as possible. People tend to give to a passionate vision, and not just on a nice brochure...what I mean by that is I need to make time to see folks face-to-face (and phone time for those contacts who are far away) in order to successfully raise funds.
2) Housing: Please pray that our home in Houma will sell soon...we would love to have a contract on it by the end of April. And pray that we will find the right house in Albuquerque as well: we have an offer on a beautiful home in the North part of the city, right in the epicenter of where we want our church to be planted.
3) Family life: That our kids will finish school strong. That our boys will enjoy their birthday parties and take time to say goodbye to their friends in South Louisiana (Noah just turned nine, Caleb will turn seven in May). That Carrie and I, in the midst of our busyness, will continue to work on our marriage. That our boys will see this move as a great adventure.
Thank you for praying for us!
Please pray for us in the following matters:
1) Fundraising: That I will be diligent in presenting my vision and excitement for this new work with as many people as possible. People tend to give to a passionate vision, and not just on a nice brochure...what I mean by that is I need to make time to see folks face-to-face (and phone time for those contacts who are far away) in order to successfully raise funds.
2) Housing: Please pray that our home in Houma will sell soon...we would love to have a contract on it by the end of April. And pray that we will find the right house in Albuquerque as well: we have an offer on a beautiful home in the North part of the city, right in the epicenter of where we want our church to be planted.
3) Family life: That our kids will finish school strong. That our boys will enjoy their birthday parties and take time to say goodbye to their friends in South Louisiana (Noah just turned nine, Caleb will turn seven in May). That Carrie and I, in the midst of our busyness, will continue to work on our marriage. That our boys will see this move as a great adventure.
Thank you for praying for us!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Back From the Southwest
Twelve days...1900 miles driven (grateful for unlimited mileage on the rental car!)...face to face meetings with several dozen church leaders and pastors...more New Mexican food consumed on this trip than the last ten years combined...these are just some of the highlights of my trip that wrapped up last night.
Other than missing my wife and sons terribly, my trip to New Mexico and Arizona was an unqualified success and an absolute blast! Thank you for remembering me in your prayers the past two weeks; I was encouraged knowing so many of you are committed to my family and this church planting project.
If I could choose one word to summarize my time out West, it would be 'encouragement.' I was encouraged spiritually, in my walk with Christ; I was encouraged by so many saints in their hospitality and interest in the church plant; I was encouraged by catching up with family and 'old friends.'
In particular, I was struck by the following things during my twelve days in the desert:
1) The Beauty of Creation: I had forgotten the wonder of the Desert Southwest. The soaring mountains, many of them dusted with early spring snow; the sagebrush, cacti, tumbleweeds, and open spaces between towns; the huge skies with abounding sunshine. Having driven from Albuquerque to Las Cruces, Las Cruces to Phoenix, Phoenix back to Albuquerque, I wondered at the beauty around me...which led me to once again wonder at (and worship) the One who created all this. Our God is a wonderful, creative Wonder!
2) The Generosity of People: I lost count how many folks took me out to breakfast, lunch, or dinner...shame on me! Needless to say, I ate well, and enjoyed rich conversation at tables in homes and restaurants alike. Special thanks go to those families who allowed me to stay in their homes: John and Susan Pickett in Las Cruces, Marshall and Susan Burns in Scottsdale, and Jim and Tish Rose in Albuquerque. An extra word of thanks to Glenn and Karin Lingle in Gilbert, Arizona, who offered their home, but because of their "Animal Kingdom" (Karin's words, not mine!) and my allergies, I had to decline their gracious offer.
3) The Growth of Albuquerque: Having left the Duke City thirteen years ago, and having visited only sporadically since then, I was not prepared to see the growth of the city. In particular, the area of Albuquerque that we are targeting (the intersection of Interstate 25 and Paseo Del Norte, in the far north part of the city) has exploded with homes and businesses in the past ten years or so. Albuquerque continues to change and grow, which reminds me that I need to continue to change and grow, and that a successful church, not just in Albuquerque but anywhere, needs to grow and change to reach its community with the unchanging truth of the Gospel.
4) Interested Families: I had the privilege of interacting with three separate families who have some interest in being part of our core group for the church plant. They probably have no idea how encouraging that is to me! And yet their interest confirms to me that God is already working in the hearts of those who will be the front line workers in this new church. Being in a place where God is at work...there is no better place to be!
5) The Need is Clear: Sitting in a pizza joint not far from my old high school, I was struck by the hustle and bustle of a Friday night in Albuquerque. So many families, with moms and dads trying to keep their kids close while juggling their jobs and marriages. Tons and tons of teens, many of whom are looking for trouble and are bound to find it. Some families, obviously well to do, trying to find their satisfaction in their wealth, while other families just scraping enough together to enjoy their once a month outing to grab some fast food.
I want to minister to these folks. I want to live my life among them, not just telling them about Jesus, but applying the gospel to our lives, together, and exploring what it means to bring the Kingdom of God to bear in our families, schools, workplaces, and our city. Albuquerque is where I want to be, not just this summer or next year, but five, ten, twenty years down the road.
There is a need here for another Christ-centered, gospel-oriented community of grace. Thanks for continuing to support me and my family as we seek to follow His call to Albuquerque.
Other than missing my wife and sons terribly, my trip to New Mexico and Arizona was an unqualified success and an absolute blast! Thank you for remembering me in your prayers the past two weeks; I was encouraged knowing so many of you are committed to my family and this church planting project.
If I could choose one word to summarize my time out West, it would be 'encouragement.' I was encouraged spiritually, in my walk with Christ; I was encouraged by so many saints in their hospitality and interest in the church plant; I was encouraged by catching up with family and 'old friends.'
In particular, I was struck by the following things during my twelve days in the desert:
1) The Beauty of Creation: I had forgotten the wonder of the Desert Southwest. The soaring mountains, many of them dusted with early spring snow; the sagebrush, cacti, tumbleweeds, and open spaces between towns; the huge skies with abounding sunshine. Having driven from Albuquerque to Las Cruces, Las Cruces to Phoenix, Phoenix back to Albuquerque, I wondered at the beauty around me...which led me to once again wonder at (and worship) the One who created all this. Our God is a wonderful, creative Wonder!
2) The Generosity of People: I lost count how many folks took me out to breakfast, lunch, or dinner...shame on me! Needless to say, I ate well, and enjoyed rich conversation at tables in homes and restaurants alike. Special thanks go to those families who allowed me to stay in their homes: John and Susan Pickett in Las Cruces, Marshall and Susan Burns in Scottsdale, and Jim and Tish Rose in Albuquerque. An extra word of thanks to Glenn and Karin Lingle in Gilbert, Arizona, who offered their home, but because of their "Animal Kingdom" (Karin's words, not mine!) and my allergies, I had to decline their gracious offer.
3) The Growth of Albuquerque: Having left the Duke City thirteen years ago, and having visited only sporadically since then, I was not prepared to see the growth of the city. In particular, the area of Albuquerque that we are targeting (the intersection of Interstate 25 and Paseo Del Norte, in the far north part of the city) has exploded with homes and businesses in the past ten years or so. Albuquerque continues to change and grow, which reminds me that I need to continue to change and grow, and that a successful church, not just in Albuquerque but anywhere, needs to grow and change to reach its community with the unchanging truth of the Gospel.
4) Interested Families: I had the privilege of interacting with three separate families who have some interest in being part of our core group for the church plant. They probably have no idea how encouraging that is to me! And yet their interest confirms to me that God is already working in the hearts of those who will be the front line workers in this new church. Being in a place where God is at work...there is no better place to be!
5) The Need is Clear: Sitting in a pizza joint not far from my old high school, I was struck by the hustle and bustle of a Friday night in Albuquerque. So many families, with moms and dads trying to keep their kids close while juggling their jobs and marriages. Tons and tons of teens, many of whom are looking for trouble and are bound to find it. Some families, obviously well to do, trying to find their satisfaction in their wealth, while other families just scraping enough together to enjoy their once a month outing to grab some fast food.
I want to minister to these folks. I want to live my life among them, not just telling them about Jesus, but applying the gospel to our lives, together, and exploring what it means to bring the Kingdom of God to bear in our families, schools, workplaces, and our city. Albuquerque is where I want to be, not just this summer or next year, but five, ten, twenty years down the road.
There is a need here for another Christ-centered, gospel-oriented community of grace. Thanks for continuing to support me and my family as we seek to follow His call to Albuquerque.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Heading Out West
I leave tomorrow for the Southwest! I will be spending the rest of this week in southern New Mexico, visiting with PCA pastors and churches in Alamogordo, Las Cruces, and El Paso, to make them aware of The Duke City Project. As many of these brothers are church planters themselves, I hope to do as much listening as talking!
I will then make a quick trip west to visit with some Arizona pastors, again with an eye toward raising support, then head back to Albuquerque for even more fundraising, as well as to visit with some perspective core group members. Somewhere during this trip I hope to visit with my brother and his wife, my aunt and uncle, and some close friends.
All together, please pray that this trip will not only be a success in terms of fundraising, and prayer raising, but that God will use this time to sharpen my vision of what church He will build in Albuquerque. I am also looking forward to some long drives in the rental car, so that I can spend some personal time in prayer and worship. Finally, please pray for Carrie and the boys while I am away. Twelve days is a long time for the four of us to be apart!
Thank you, friends and family, for praying for me, my family, and this project. Keep seeking God and knocking on the gates of His Kingdom, and He will continue to guide us, protect us, and lead us to places and people we can hardly imagine!
To our Great God be the glory!
I will then make a quick trip west to visit with some Arizona pastors, again with an eye toward raising support, then head back to Albuquerque for even more fundraising, as well as to visit with some perspective core group members. Somewhere during this trip I hope to visit with my brother and his wife, my aunt and uncle, and some close friends.
All together, please pray that this trip will not only be a success in terms of fundraising, and prayer raising, but that God will use this time to sharpen my vision of what church He will build in Albuquerque. I am also looking forward to some long drives in the rental car, so that I can spend some personal time in prayer and worship. Finally, please pray for Carrie and the boys while I am away. Twelve days is a long time for the four of us to be apart!
Thank you, friends and family, for praying for me, my family, and this project. Keep seeking God and knocking on the gates of His Kingdom, and He will continue to guide us, protect us, and lead us to places and people we can hardly imagine!
To our Great God be the glory!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Just Getting Started
Welcome to the "NewsCenter" of the Duke City Project, my efforts to plant a new church in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
You can pray for me and my family in the following matters:
1) For the sale of our house in South Louisiana.
2) For success in raising 100 prayer partners.
3) For success in raising $125,000 (not all at one time, but in pledges over the next three years), from both churches and Kingdom-minded believers.
4) For safety and success as I travel to New Mexico for 12 days in March, and for my family while I am away.
If you would like to receive a copy of our fundraising newsletter, please contact me by email! I would enjoy sharing with you how the Lord is leading us back to the Duke City.
Thanks for your interest! I'll update later on this month.
You can pray for me and my family in the following matters:
1) For the sale of our house in South Louisiana.
2) For success in raising 100 prayer partners.
3) For success in raising $125,000 (not all at one time, but in pledges over the next three years), from both churches and Kingdom-minded believers.
4) For safety and success as I travel to New Mexico for 12 days in March, and for my family while I am away.
If you would like to receive a copy of our fundraising newsletter, please contact me by email! I would enjoy sharing with you how the Lord is leading us back to the Duke City.
Thanks for your interest! I'll update later on this month.
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