NOVEMBER team is almost ready to go!

 

The God of Miracles Can be Trusted

The November team leaves for China in 23 days!  We have raised most of the support, with the exception of the last $200!  My best guess tells me it will come in.  I believe it, because we serve a God of miracles.  Each of us has come together at our mighty Father’s prompting.  He will provide for us, He will care for us, and He will watch over us.  Our visas are being processed, and our talks are completed.  We will meet a few more times prior to our departure to refine and “tweek” our topics. 

Last week someone lent me a book that is a true story about a family in China.  As I began reading it this weekend, it startled me to think of the oppression that these people have lived under.  At one time they were instructed to tear up their gardens, removing their trees and flowers and leave just the dirt.  It dawned on me that the beauty and splendor we live with each day we many times take for granted.  As the fall approaches, and leaves turn I think of the miraculous colors God has created.

We are blessed to able to go to China and minister to these hungry souls.  God’s love for us is unfailing.  “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord who has compassion for you.  IS 54:10.

Please pray for our team:
1.  Our visas and passports completed quickly.

 

2. The leadership team in China is in transition, please pray for them.

 

3. Protection for us and our families as we prepare to go to China.

4. The hearts of the Chinese people will be changed, encouraged, and moved by what we share.

5.  That the spiritual walk of the team will be renewed and strengthened by this experience.

 

6.  God's blessing on the Divine appointments that He provides. 

 

5. Unity among our team.

Tammy

September Team Report #4

 

 

The joy of serving!

 

What a joy it is to serve our Lord in China!  He has kept our team very busy and we look forward to sharing our many adventures and blessings with you when we return home.  For now, we will let these photos tell the story. 

 

Angela teaching with Fangfang

 

 
Gayle teaching about "My Heart Chr*st's Home"

                                         Lorrie at the podium

 Gayle and Larry sharing 

 

 

September Team Report #3

Pictures tell today's story ....

September Team Report #2

 

Lorrie, Angela, Gayle, Larry with Business group

 

Divine appointments:

We traveled to Fangzhu Ang where Larry and Gayle talked on "Before You Say I Do" to about 15 Mary Kay sisters. The talk was very moving and generated a powerful discussion on marriage, divorce, singleness and trusting God. After an  animated and powerful discussion, Fang Fang asked Larry to give his talk on "Refuse to Worry". Talk about being flexible! Larry didn't have his talk with him, only a rough outline. Larry's talk was superb! Deep, thoughtful, Biblical, and oh, so timely.

 

Lorrie, Gayle, Angela at Chongwenmen church

Sunday we went to the oldest Christian church in Beijing, Chongwenmen  established in the late 1870's. As we stood  wondering where the church was a woman walked by and pointed us in the right direction. Talk about God sending an angel. This church has a long, interesting history. We were warmly received and given Bibles, hymnals and programs. The choir sang beautifully and the pastor who is a woman gave a theologically sound, inspiring message. Our team felt a deep joy over being with these believers. We met a girl named Claudia who was a first time visitor and told us she was  Buddhist and Christian. She has a great interest in Christianity and prays for a Christian husband (like so many of the girls here). Her sister who is a Christian lives in Riverside. After talking with her for awhile she helped us get a taxi and we said goodbye. Talk about divine appointments!

Pr'y:The H. S. would work through us and move the hearts of  the people we teach.

 

We are growing fond of the people and ask you to join us in pr'ying for them.

 

September Team Report #1

Ni Hao! Greetings, we are in Beijing!

 

Our flight from San Diego to Seattle was smooth and quick. After arriving at Sea Tac we went directly to the check in counter. We decided to take a team picture in front of the check in counter's sign announcing our departure for Beijing. Since we had a 3 hour layover, we decided to have lunch at the food court. We sat with a man who was returning to Beijing after a 2 month visit with his daughter. He invited us to a small but well known restaurant in Beijing. Larry exchanged information with him. We are already making friends! I think it is a sign of god things to come.

 

Grace from GPIH met us at the airport, for some of us it was a happy reunion and for Lorrie a happy beginning. Grace gave us our schedule for the 2 weeks, which is still in flux. Larry and Gayle have scheduled one on ones tonight for counseling and encouragement. We're ready for our divine appointments.

 

Please Pr*y:

Pr*y that we would adjust quickly to Beijing time.

Pr*y that our 1st. talks would set the tone for powerful teaching and ministry.

Pr*y for our team's good health, joy,  stamina and flexibility.

Pr*y for receptive hearts and changed lives.

Larry Sharp

Don't get confused ... We are happy to report that there are three groups from EFCC going to China this fall.

 

     September 3 - 12: Dennis Keating and Dave Hall

 

     September 12 - 25: Larry and Gayle Sharp, Angela Smith, Lorrie Tustison 

         

     October 31 - November 14: Tammy De Armas, Nancy Lane, Cheryl Moen,
     Chris Montgomery, Mary Waring

 

 

 

Larry and Gayle Sharp, Angela Smith, Lorrie Tustison

September 12 - 25, 2012

 

 

 

Two Months and Counting…..

 

 

The airline tickets have been purchased, we are close to being fully funded, talks have been prepared, roommates announced, customs discussed in great detail, gifts are being purchased for our Chinese sisters – and to all this we say “Praise be to God.”  Thank you Jesus that you continue to lead us and guide each one of us as we move forward in our dependency to you- our King!
 

 

As I look through my journal of our first meeting to now, I have a deep sense of gratitude and joy.  We haven’t left yet for this mission, and He has knit our souls together in unity.  We have laughed and cried together, prayed together, and have become a team together.  We know each others gifts, and shared some deep desires, and needs.  We have seen a bit of the spiritual warfare, and yet we have seen our Lord move miraculously through the battles.  As Pastor Dennis preached several weeks ago- There is no “I” in team.  I, for one am very grateful to be a part of this dynamic team!

 

Thank you to each of you who are following us and praying for us.  Below are some prayer requests for our team.

 

1. Praise for the funding already received. 
2. Praise for the airline tickets and logistics that have already been settled.
3. Prayer for the finalization of some of our talks.
4. Prayer for health for team members
5. Prayer that the remaining money be received by 9/20
6. Prayer for the women in China we will be working with, for the contact people that work directly with us. 

Tammy

Special Meeting With Chinese Teachers

Our team had a glimpse of what is to come when we recently met with some Chinese exchange teachers.  This group consisted of Chinese adult English teachers from Inner Mongolia who were here in the US to study our culture and language and spend several weeks in different areas of our country.

One of the teachers was a young woman whose mother had become a believer about 20 years ago.  Through a difficult period in the mother’s life, she heard from the Lord.  In turn, she led her husband and 2 young children to Christ. The young woman shared that she knew that Jesus was her Savior, yet she felt alone as many people are unaware of His existence in her country.  She prays and knows He hears her, but what she is missing is fellowship with other believers her own age.

Her fiancé was part of this trip, and our group was able to speak with him as well.  He is also a teacher and the two of them work together.  When asked if Jesus was His savior, his response was “not yet”.  While each of us saw hope in his answer, the idea of being unequally yoked was resonating with each of us.

It became apparent to me that night that although the culture maybe different, the needs are very much the same.  The very same enemy sows the seeds of distraction, discouragement and deception here and in China. We must be bold to encourage, attract, and share truth.  This was a night where our Lord opened up a little of what we would see with our Chinese sisters.  It became apparent that our issues, temptations, expectations, and trials are similar. 

Just as this dear young woman’s mother was bold, we prepare for our time in China.  We pray that the Lord is tilling the soil in China as our November team prepares to head over there.  May we plant seeds for the kingdom in our Lord Jesus, and nurture those seedlings that have begun to grow. 

Prayer Requests

1. Wisdom for our talks that they would reflect Gods word and what He wants the Chinese people to hear.
2. Praise for our "sending team" ..... it is growing and many people are committing to pray for China and our team!
3. Praise for the support that has already been raised.
4. Unity for our team to continue to work well together
5. Health for the team members to stay strong

Tammy

Women's Team - November 2012

Qualifies the Called

What was the response of the disciples when Jesus asked them to follow him?  Matthew 4:20 states “At once they left their nets and followed him.” 

 

The November China Mission team has been selected.  Not putting any of us in the same shoes as Peter and Andrew, but listening to each woman’s experience of being asked to serve made the above verse resonate in me.  God’s abundant grace has blessed this mission trip with a diverse group of women with gifts, talents, trials, temptations, experiences and enthusiasm.  Our love for the Lord and desire to be used by Him to share with our sisters in China is a heart’s prayer held by each of us. 

 

Having never served on a mission before I didn’t know what to expect, nor did I know all of the women going.  Throughout our first few meetings I see a transparency with the team members that I know will be used for His glory.  He is knitting us together quickly; and with much laughter, some tears and sharing we move forward. 

 

Our selected verse is Romans 15:13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”  

 

How can you pray for us?

1.    For the development of each of our talks. 

2.    Praise Him for the airline ticket prices that were secured.

3.    Protection from spiritual warfare

4.    For strength, courage and peace for each member of the team as they juggle their personal lives and commitments. 

5.    Prepare our sisters hearts in China to receive the messages He is calling us to share

6.    May God be glorified and may we honor Him in all we do.

Tammy

China March 2012 Report

EFCC and GPIH Teams

While this report is well overdue, it is with a full heart that we can report that our March trip to Beijing was very successful.  Due to technical difficulties, I could not connect with the blog while we were there however, the problem has been resolved for the next visit.

We are running out of adjectives to describe or amazing Connecting With China experiences.  Each time we go, we gain new perspectives and new understanding of how God is using us to help our Chinese sisters and brothers.  This trip was a little different than past visits because we were teamed up with Peggy Sperling, Women’s Director for GPiH, Dr. Liz Seltzer, and Harriet Congdon.  What a bonus!  Not only did we teach, we learned a great deal from each other. 

One of the goals of this trip was to train the first tier of women Coaches.  These six women have committed to each identify and train ten other leaders; who will then each identify and train ten more leaders.  Thus growing and strengthening the Chinese Christian community to become sound and independent.  Two full days of Kathy’s and Mary’s time were devoted to this training.  Dr. Liz taught about mentoring and leadership.  Kathy, Mary, Harriet, and Peggy worked with the Coaches individually and in small groups.  It was a very special opportunity for excellent teaching from Liz as well as developing close personal relationships with the exception Chinese Coach leaders.

John and Greg kept busy while we were training the Coaches.  They implemented follow-up mentoring and teaching for men and students from the recently concluded GPiH Crown leadership course.  There is a great need for men to mentor and teach male believers.  The hunger is great; some men came long distances to almost every open session where John and Greg taught.

Every evening we separated, with the Schmids teaching one gathering while John and I taught at another venue.  These were mostly house church members and leaders or Bible study groups.  However, we each got the opportunity to interact and plan seeds with young college non-believers.  In small groups, individuals feel more free to share their deepest hurts and needs and gives us the chance to encourage, support, and show God’s profound love for them.

One highlight of the trip for Kathy and Mary was the second women’s retreat organized by GPiH.  We laughed and cried and taught and prayed with sixty-five wonderful women.  As the retreat drew to a close on Sunday morning six of nine unbelieving women came forward to accept Jesus as their Savior.  There were many tears and cheers!  Our God is so amazing!

While our EFCC team taught over 200 people, this trip seemed more about developing individual relationships that large group teaching.  Personally, this is what touches my heart the most.  All team members over the past several years can attest to the great warmth and hospitality of our Chinese sisters and brothers, After completing this fourth mission and remembering the dear familiar faces of established friends and sweet new friends made every trip, God is continuing to shw me how much He loves each individual.  He would send us all the way to China to encourage one single hurting sister or brother.  God willing, we will be going back!  Let us know if you would like to join us!

Mary

We are ready to fly!

Our bags are packed and zipped and we are ready to go!  We are excited!  John and Mary Waring and Greg and Kathy Schmid have been close friends for over 20 years.  This is not the first trip they have shared, but we think it will be the most exciting one.


Each of the EFCC team members is taking two very stuffed bags.  No, we did not pack our entire closets!  The second bags are filled with gifts and materials for the work we will be doing. 


Kathy and Mary are particularly excited to participate in the second ever women’s retreat to be held March 10-11.  Last spring Peggy Sperlling of GPiH presented the first known overnight women’s retreat in China.  It was such a success that she decided to increase this year’s retreat to two nights. 


The schedule that our dear Chinese sister, Fangfang, prepared for us is packed with many great opportunities to meet, teach, mentor, and encourage our sisters and brothers in Beijing.  There will be several men-only sessions that John and Greg will lead; while single sisters and women-only groups will keep Mary and Kathy busy.  Some evenings we will go as couples to work with small church groups. 


This EFCC team has experienced an extraordinary amount of spiritual warfare.  Dana Hawkes who was scheduled to teach the Crown College course last week in Beijing and then join our team has had to cancel his trip.  After training had started, Dana was in an auto accident and is under doctor’s orders to stay home and rest from a severe whiplash injury.  Please pray for his quick recovery.


Kathy has also been suffering with numerous physical attacks including a burst ear drum.  Her doctor has said Kathy can go to Beijing, but we continue praying for a pain free and quick recovery for her.


We are all looking forward to meeting and working with Harriet Congdon and Dr. Liz Selzer who will be coming with Peggy Sperling, Women’s Director for GPiH.  Harriet lives in Portland and Liz is from Texas.  It will be a pleasure to again work with Peggy in Beijing. 
 

During the next two weeks, please pray for our activities.  May God be honored and glorified by our efforts.  May we all work smoothly together and may our Chinese sisters and brothers be strengthened and learn what God wants them to carry in their hearts. 

Mary

Dana's Journal Entry

As I ponder what I will say in my talk my mind wanders to thoughts of all the lovely people I met on my last trip to China.  I think of the dynamic presence of the Spirit of God working in China.  It is my prayer that I will say something that will turn the listeners to Jesus and they will experience Him in powerful ways.  I pray that the focus will be on Scripture not on me.
Dana

Announcing a New Team for March 2012!

Team members:  John and Mary Waring, Dana Hawkes, Greg and Kathy Schmid

It is thrilling to be going to Beijing in just five weeks!  Already training has begun and we are hard at work preparing for another Spirit-filled mission.  Many exciting adventures await and we know that God will provide numerous Divine appointments that will greatly use the gifts He has given each of us.

Please join us in praying for:

• God to be glorified in everything we say and do.
• Strength to resist the spiritual warfare we know will come.
• Continued happiness for this amazing opportunity to serve our Lord in China.

Serving Him with joy,
Mary and the Team

Some Favorite Memories of October

October Women's team members: 

Loraine Doud, Carol Uhler,

Mary Waring, Angela Smith, Gayle Sharp, Diane Hamlett 

Each of these extraordinary women stepped out in faith and marched out of their comfort zones to serve our Lord and the people of China.  Each one was mightly blessed for their faithfulness.


"They can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God."

Titus 2:4-8

Here are a few comments about their experiences:

Diane Hamlett  
My trip to China was an amazing experience that I will treasure in my heart forever.  I honestly had no idea what to expect.  From the very first night I spoke I felt such a connection to these wonderful people.  They are amazing women and their love for God shows in their hearts and cheerful smiles.  

Gayle Sharp
We were blessed beyond our wildest imaginations as we taught, mentored, laughed, cried, and interacted with the most wonderful and amazing Christian women.  What a joy to be used by God in a country where so many people are hungry and eager to hear God's Word and want to grown in their Christian faith! 

Angela Smith
Beijing is a busy bustling city filled with beautiful people and towering skyscrapers.  The people we met and taught have such a passion for God and His Word that many of them traveled one to two hours to hear us speak.  What impacted me the most during our time in Beijing were the many Divine appointments we experienced.  These were interactions totally unplanned by the team, but were Divinely appointed by God.  I went to Beijing with the thought of serving on God's behalf, but I was the one served.

Mary Waring   
After leading three missions to China in 19 months I thought the excitment would fade as familiarity sets in.  I was wrong!  Seeing God at work using the unique gifts of each team member keeps the visits fresh and exciting.  Also, during each trip I make new friends and have the pleasure of renewing precious previous acquaintances.  One highlight of this visit was to be asked, along with Gayle, to dedicate the precious new baby of friends we made during our September 2010 trip.  What joyful work! 

Carol Uhler      
One of my many blessings and memories of our mission to China was hearing Chinese sisters and brothers joyfully singing Christian songs and singing for us.  Another fun memory was when I taught many of the groups the song, "This Little Light of Mine ... I'm going to let it shine 'til Jesus comes!"  I am so thankful to God for the many blessings and opportunities we had in China to serve Him.

  

Women's Team - October 2011

Exciting, rewarding, blessings, laughter, and amazement are just a few words to describe our October mission to Beijing.  This team of six women spoke at 15 different sessions to approximately 350 people.  While the numbers are impressive, they do not convey the tremendous impact this trip made not only on the Chinese people we met, but also on every team member.

One Thursday the team went to the office of a major cosmetic company and taught about 30 women from 9:30 to 5:00.  After the last talk, our guide Hope, used our slavation bracelet to explain the salvation message then asked if there were any women who wanted to accept Jesus into their lies to guide them.  Eleven women said yes!  It is amazing to think that those eleven non-believers sat for seven hours absorbing our teaching based on the Bible.  All the way back to the hotel we sang praise songs and thanked God for the privilege to serve Him in China!

Then there was the taxi driver who asked our interpreter why we were all so happy and she told him about our joy in the Lord.  And the pastor who told Diane that her teaching inspired him.  And the many people we talked with who are stuggling in difficult marriages to unbelievers.  And our extraordinary interpreters and guides, Hope and Fangfang, who continue to inspire us ... and so much more!

Hopefully this will give you a glimpse of what we do while serving our Mighty Lord in China.

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms ... To Him be the glory and the power forever and every.  Amen
1 Peter 4:10-11

Who we are and What we do

The Chinese government is more open than ever to permitting religion to expand in China.  Some officials are convinced that Christian principles will have a positive effect on the stability of the population.  While this may be self-serving on the government's part, the end result is the same -- explosive growth of the Chrisitan population in China.

Connecting with China, a ministry of EFCC, sends short-term teams to China to teach, encourage, and counsel people, many of whom are followers of Christ.  It is estimated that across China thousands of people every day are accepting Jesus as their Savior.  Most of these new believers do not have parents or grandparents to mentor or guide them how to live like Jesus.  Many house church pastors have only recently become Christians themselves.  Even mature Chinese brothers and sisters are hungry for supplemental teaching and mentoring. 

Because of the current modernization in China, the Chinese people look to America as a model for economic and spiritual success.  They are eager for the respected counsel of mature older brothers and sisters from the United States.

All this creates an environment that practically begs for teams of spiritually mature Christians to enter China a mentor, teach, and evangelize.  They do not want an American church in China, but they do want to be strengthened, taught, and fed by mature American Christians. 

God is doing amazing work in China.  He has called us to join this effort and has given incredible blessings to those who have answered His call.

Welcome to the new Connecting with China 2 Blog

After much time and frustration at not being able to access the original Connecting with China blog, I decided to create the new Connecting with China 2.  This is a continuation of the story about the amazing ministry Emmanual Faith Community Church is doing in partnership with Global Partners in Hope.

For the beginning of the adventure, please go to connectingwithchina.blogspot.com then check back here learn about our continuing journey.