Christmas 2003
Dear Friends,
Firstly, we wish you a very Happy Christmas and trust that you will have a happy
and healthy New Year!
These past Months have been full of exciting opportunities in a variety of settings.
We want to record our thanks to God for all His goodness and to thank you for standing with us in prayerful support.
MINISTRY
In August, Kathryn was Padre at the Devon Christian Youth Camp-Girls camp. What a glorious week it was too! The weather was outstanding, the officers magnificent and the 83 girls very attentive and responsive. The whole experience was very uplifting and rewarding for both of us.
At the end of August we were able to visit Matthew and Wendy in Nassau en-route to the Island of Great Guana Cay for a Month of ministry. The ten days were very precious as we stayed in their home and observed how well they have settled into marriage, church and work.
The beautiful Island of Guana Cay was our home and base for ministry during September. This was our fourth visit-the first being in 1989. The Seaside Gospel Chapel is located on the main street and usually attracts a number of vacationers but, September is a notably quiet Month so, we were delighted to have good numbers at all the meetings. On the final Sunday two Ladies were baptised just yards from the front door of the Chapel.
A new challenge for Kathryn was to speak at a Ladies Retreat at a Hotel in Nassau organised by the Ladies Ministries of Calvary Bible Church (where we served 1972-8). By all accounts the event was a huge success as fun and fellowship were greatly appreciated. Ladies spoke about being deeply challenged and spiritually renewed.
Rachel concluded her University studies in September and is now a Staff Nurse, working at a Bournemouth clinic for Adults with learning disabilities and challenging behaviour. This work is proving a very real challenge! She would value your prayers. On November 12th she donned her cap and gown and participated in a very impressive graduation service at the Bournemouth International Centre. Naturally, Mum and Dad are very proud of her.
At the end of October, David, along with our good friend Don Maxwell, went to Buffalo, NY for the 60th Anniversary of Global Outreach Mission. Dr Brian Albrecht was installed as President, succeeding Dr James Blackwood who has led the Mission for 33 years. During this time the Mission experienced remarkable growth, and now there are personnel in over 40 countries in a variety of ministries. (Check out the web site below)
The whole week was full of activities, including an outstanding banquet and concert featuring Steve Green, whose singing was outstanding, inspiring and uplifting, holding the near 600 attendees in awe as he extolled the Name of Jesus.
We were privileged to attend a morning reception at the International Headquarters when a much-needed extension was dedicated. It was a joy to meet with office staff whose dedication helps to keep the mission moving forward.
Daily excursions took us to places of historical interest including Niagara Falls on a day when the temperature was 69*. Many friendships were renewed and new ones formed as we fellowshipped with GOM Personnel and supporters of the Mission.
Finally, we wish to record our sincere thanks to all who receive this letter. Some of you have been with us since David was at Cliff College (1961) whilst others have come on board along the way. On September 1st we completed 21 years of itinerant ministry from our home base. We are deeply grateful to all the Churches/Chapels/organisations etc who have invited us to minister and, to those people who have stood by us in prayer and support.
We praise Him for all that is past and, trust Him for all that’s to come!
With very many thanks and much love,
David, Kathryn and Rachel Cole.