Hello Fellow Missionaries!
Update from Mexico – The words that kept coming up that Pastor John heard, were “Mui frio”… meaning “VERY COLD”. These families have no insulation, and know that we are coming soon. But we can’t be there soon enough. Pray for them. But note that especially at night, just like out here, it gets quite cold! In fact, did you all notice the rain that just hit us right after I told you how “beautiful” it would be in Mexico? Be prepared, but also, humble yourself in remembering what these families are struggling with, waiting for our help.
Everyone wear your MISSION’S T-SHIRTS and bracelets on Sunday!
REMINDER: “TODD”
T – THREE for any and all errands!
O – Observe everything, everywhere and everyone!
D – Don’t leave the group, and Don’t ever go anywhere at night!
D – Do have an adult escort to restrooms/errands, as one of the 3!
Copied in this email are Pastor John Rose and Ben Gaines. Ben will be personally responsible for our team once we meet them in San Diego! Please read and review this entire email. Our team is officially 63 total persons with 30 adults and 33 youths (under 18). Final roster is attached, with most adult phone numbers included. UPDATED Team/Van lists are below. Please note it in your own Mission’s Booklets.
PARENTS/COUPLES:
* Parents with younger children, or married couples – You have the option to stay at the church where we will be on Wednesday in the evenings. It’s about a 15 minute drive from where the masses are, but more private and probably a high chance of everyone getting a bed! Otherwise, you will be mixed in the guys and girl’s dorms, with beds given priority to the older gentlemen and ladies and of course, physical needs. There will be two Baja Bound staff staying there with 10 volunteers. However, if you prefer to stay together with us, that is fine as well. Please reply to this email right away if you want this option.
* Please be advised, that if for any reason, any youths need to be sent home, all parents will be notified to meet a BB Staff and myself in San Diego to pick up children. If it is one of the youths that are yours, then we will ask one of you to take them home or to help make such arrangements with grandparents…etc. Please remember that it would take a LOT, to be sent home, but also… please be prepared. My decisions in this matter, should it be called upon, will not be negotiable.
VAN DRIVERS – Separate email being sent to John, Lee, Brian, Dean, Wayne, David P./Wendy P., and Dave S., as well as Pastor Sunny who will be arriving Monday with Maryann and Julian.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28TH –
* 1st Meeting point is at JCC at 10am in the parking lot (2761 190th in Redondo Beach. Parking lot is on the Armour St. side of the building. Sign on 190th says South Bay Church of the Brethren, but we will have Journey Covenant Church signs up as well). Immediately after the service, come out and meet me by the vans. We will load up and leave VERY PROMPTLY at 10:30am. Hit the restrooms before you hop in. Carpool to this location if possible. Tree of Life has granted permission to leave cars there at the “far left” side for the week. If you choose to do this, please RSVP with me and provide car model and License plate# and contact info so we can leave it for Brenda from TOL. Limited space available for this option, so RSVP with me.
* 2nd Meeting point is at SBPC at 11am located at 2701 Plaza Del Amo in Torrance. You can park in the back all week long if you want to leave your car there. At this stop, we will pick up all SBPC members from our team, have one last bathroom break and hit the road PROMPTLY at 11:30am.
* Boxed lunches provided in each van with bottled waters. Inside each box, is a sheet of paper that will have a name of one of our team members that you will be encouraging all week via the notes. You’ll make/decorate a bag for them and write notes daily to this person!
* 2pm meeting at San Diego Gas & Go company. Directions will be provided in the vans for you. That will be our last stop in the US. We will hit restrooms and fill up gas tanks, meet with Pastor John, Ben and the Baja Bound staff, and leave by 2:30pm to cross the border.
* 2:30pm we head out of the USA. THERE WILL BE NO STOPS in Mexico until we arrive at location, which is about 88 miles south. We should arrive no later than 5pm, with the sun still out for dinner at the Children’s Home.
WHAT TO BRING:
1. BIBLES – You’ll need yours! Journals as well for yourself. Include a pen too.
2. MISSIONS BOOKLETS – Must carry it on you at ALL TIMES.
3. ONE BAG – Duffle/backpack sized. You hear me, Heather & Megan? =)
4. LONG PANTS – 2 pairs of jeans or 3 if you can fit them. Anything sturdy that can take a beating and has a couple of pockets.
5. TOWEL – Bring your own. Don’t be “that” guy…
6. SLEEPING BAG – Include a pillow for yourself!
7. PASSPORTS – Or your BC/ID combo. You will leave them in the vans at all times.
8. TOILETRIES – We have hot water and showers, so soap, shampoo, lotions, toothbrushes, your hair junk…etc.
9. WORK GLOVES – We will have some extra.
10. HARD SOLED SHOES – for the work sites if you have them. This protects you from stepping on a nail.
11. EXTRA CLOTHING – Socks, boxers, long sleeve T’s, T-shirts, RAIN jacket, PJ’s.
12. WARM CLOTHING – It’s cold at night, and like Todd reminded us, weather is not predictable. Be prepared for rain. Sweatshirts, ponchos (waterproof).
13. TOOLS – Can always be put to good use! I highly recommend keeping your own tools on you and never leaving them at a work site, even after a rotation. Lock it up in the van. Tools are expensive and we’d hate to lose anyone’s. Hammers, screwdrivers, saws…etc.
14. SNACKS – There will be plenty of food available, but if you want anything special, it’s up to you to bring it within the space of your ONE bag.
THINGS BEING BROUGHT FOR THE TEAM:
1. Extra work aprons (Will be at work sites)
2. Extra work gloves (Will be at work sites)
3. Extra water bottles and snacks for each van
4. Air mattress for girls room (full size)
5. Extra Mission’s booklets (limited – see Chris)
6. Paper and pens and brown sack-lunch sized bags for notes of encouragement.
7. Hand sanitizer bottles (in Vans)
8. Extra work hammers (Will be at work sites)
9. Sandwich lunches for our trip down to San Diego! (In Vans)
10. Extra folding chairs for our meetings (In Vans)
11. Toy and clothing donations to give away (In Vans)
TEAMS LISTS UPDATED!!! (your groups are your vans):
Also, there is an update on the van placements (sub-teams). Just to clarify, I had a couple misprints, switched a couple people, and replaced one person, and forgot one person…. Ugh. Be merciful, my friends… I have marked in bold/red people that have “new van homes”. =) Please note the corrected/updated and “FINAL” team lists on your Booklets:
1. Anna (Leader–Van=Romans), Megan (General–Van=Romans)
* Van (Romans/Chris – Site Coordinator): Aaron T., Heather, Julian, Kylie, Maryan, Emily, Joan, Josh
* Van (Hebrews/Lee): Taylor, Elliott, Kennedy, Samantha, Jerusalem, Valerie, Shalon, Lee, Pam, Pastor Sunny
* Van (Corinthians/Dean): Anthony, Jordan, Kyle, Dean, Wayne, Marguerite, Todd, Kati, Melodee
2. Matt (Leader–Van=Ephesians), Wydarius (General–Van=Galatians)
* Van (Galatians/Brian): Amy, Tiffany, Markus, Angel, Charles, Dave S., Brian, Trini, Ericka, Dorothy
* Van (Ephesians/John): Kristin, Kirstie, Natalia, Evan, Anton, Derrick, JJ, Pastor Jim, Annie, John, Karen
* Van (Philippians/Prewitt): Ashley, Mariah, Benny, Aaron W., Becky, Dave P., Wendy, Amy, Roland, Justin (Site Coordinator)
* Note that Pastor Sunny, Maryann and Julian will be arriving on Monday, December 29th. A Baja Bound Staff member will meet them at a specified location in San Diego at 2pm that day, and bring them down to us.
IN THE VANS:
* $20 US in rolls of quarters for toll roads
* $100 cash for gas fillips in San Diego
* Maps to each location (Provided by Baja Bound)
* Copies of all VBS Lessons (4 of them)
* Bag to hold all passports and ID’s
* Case of water and box of snacks and extra tools
* List of driver’s phone numbers along with Ben Gaines and Pastor John Rose
That’s it for now, team. You are a joy to serve! Merry Christmas to you all. I will see you all on Sunday.
God Bless,
Chris
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Monday, December 1, 2008
Slabs of concrete (Foundations) have been laid in Mexico!
Team, we're on fire right now because the journey is becomming more and more real every day! Not just in our hearts as we prepare spiritually, mentally and physically for the trip, but also in the community we seek to serve in His name! Check out the photos from Baja Bound Ministries of the work in Mexico that has recently been completed in preparation for our efforts this winter! Go to www.youthjourney.org/missions.html and click on the icons for bigger photos!
As our team finalizes and prepares, let us always remember that all we do is for the glory of God and with His blessings and guidance.
Stay the course, be faithful always and keep the fire burning passionately in your hearts! Serve others in all you do, in preparation for the trip to come!
As our team finalizes and prepares, let us always remember that all we do is for the glory of God and with His blessings and guidance.
Stay the course, be faithful always and keep the fire burning passionately in your hearts! Serve others in all you do, in preparation for the trip to come!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Youth "Bond Servant" Auction Results!
God truly blessed us this past Sunday as we hosted our first-ever Youth "Bond Servant" Auction in an effort to team up with our entire church family and congregation in raising funds for the mission's trip, while also serving others sacrificially and with all our hearts! Our beloved church family raised up in a huge way, and God's grace filled the church that day! The winners are listed below... Auction winners will be contacted by Chris or another member of the YJ team by phone, and arrangements for the youth will be coordinated for transportation and dates of service with the winning families together! OFFER NEVER EXPIRES! THANK YOU to everyone, but most of all, to our wonderful Savior, who made all things possible, and certainly made all things happen!
AUCTION RESULTS:
* Paul Jones & Vincent Morales were won by the Catalans
* Markus Nygren was won by the Catalans
* Derrick Howard was won by the Wiley's
* Kodi Hamff was won by the Wiley's
* Mike Bui was won by Al Kung
* Vincent & Mike Bui were won by Al Kung
* Akeera (Kiki) was won by Al Kung
* Jon was won by Al Kung
* Wydarius Spikes was won by Al Kung
* Bertha was won by Al Kung
* Ashley Prewitt was won by Carol Poon
* Brenton Moore & Jamaal DeRozen were won by Carl Hidalgo
* Derek Lawson (DLAW) was won by Jeff & Deanna Yost
* Marlin Drawhorn was won by the Uyematsu's
* Anna, Megan & Kylie Petty were won by the Cochran's
* Marie Velasquez was won by the Nygren's
* Kylie Petty was won by Chris (Yaay... go me!)
* Ilima Kung was won by Sarris
* Anton Drawhorn was won by Shelle Welty
* Tawanesha (Elmo) was won by Lee Macklin
* Champagne was won by Monica Thompson
* Samantha Duran was won by Heather McVickar
* Tina Sampay was won by Ken Smith
* Anna & Megan were won by Mo
AUCTION RESULTS:
* Paul Jones & Vincent Morales were won by the Catalans
* Markus Nygren was won by the Catalans
* Derrick Howard was won by the Wiley's
* Kodi Hamff was won by the Wiley's
* Mike Bui was won by Al Kung
* Vincent & Mike Bui were won by Al Kung
* Akeera (Kiki) was won by Al Kung
* Jon was won by Al Kung
* Wydarius Spikes was won by Al Kung
* Bertha was won by Al Kung
* Ashley Prewitt was won by Carol Poon
* Brenton Moore & Jamaal DeRozen were won by Carl Hidalgo
* Derek Lawson (DLAW) was won by Jeff & Deanna Yost
* Marlin Drawhorn was won by the Uyematsu's
* Anna, Megan & Kylie Petty were won by the Cochran's
* Marie Velasquez was won by the Nygren's
* Kylie Petty was won by Chris (Yaay... go me!)
* Ilima Kung was won by Sarris
* Anton Drawhorn was won by Shelle Welty
* Tawanesha (Elmo) was won by Lee Macklin
* Champagne was won by Monica Thompson
* Samantha Duran was won by Heather McVickar
* Tina Sampay was won by Ken Smith
* Anna & Megan were won by Mo
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Missions Team Meeting this Sunday, 11/09 at SBPC
WOW... the team is growing and fundraising is exploding. The support and grace of God reminds us that He is truly in control, and loves us so much that He wants to bless us in all we do! We can take no credit for what God is doing, and therefore we can simply stand firm in our faith (Ephesians 6:10-18) and be proud to need our wonderful Savior!
Our team is growing... take a look:
* Youth Servants: Anna (Team leader), Matt (Team leader), Kylie, Megan, Wydarius, Anton, Derrick, Samantha, Ashley, Mariah, Heather, Tina, Charles, Markus, JJ, Kennedy, Kirstie, Benny, Taylor, Julian, Elliot, approx 10 more from SBPC (31)
* Adult Volunteers: Chris, Joan, Pam, Lee, Wayne, Marguerite, Dean, John, Karen, Todd, Kati, Josh, Justin, Roland, Trini, Amy, Brian, Dave, Pastor Jim, Pastor Sunny, Maryann, Emily, Shalon (23)
That's about 54 and counting... the team from SBPC and Younglife of Southbay will be meeting us for this Sunday's meeting!
Fundraising Continues:
* SATURDAY - BINGO at the church for fun and raising funds! We'll have the games ready! Check in time for all youths is 9am for setup. We'll have food servers, game managers, car washers... everyone will rotate and make things happen! Let's have a great day! We need food too, so start cooking everyone! Sandwiches will be set up for lunch!
* SUNDAY SERVICE and "Bond-Servant Auction" at the JCC Service! During service, we'll introduce the bond servant auction as a fundraiser and fun way to support the missions trip! Anna & Megan will be performing a skit on supporting the trip, Ashley will be singing with the Worship Team, Vincent, Brenton, Maudy, Paul and Jamal will be teaching a song to the congregation, and we'll show a DVD clip from the team! BE THERE at 9am to support! The auction will be held in the courtyard between services!
* SBPC Fundraisers (info coming soon)... on Tuesday 11/11 we have coupon/flyers for Pat & Oscar's in Torrance (21424 Hawthorne Blvd) where 20% of all the proceeds willbe donated to SBPC! Must have the flyer. Contact Chris to get one! And they have more coming!
And that's just a taste of what God has in store for us on this journey...
Meeting Agenda:
* 1pm-1:30 lunch and fellowship
* 1:30-2pm worship songs, announcements and introductions
* 2pm-2:30 team competition
* 2:30-3pm team VBS training/teachings
* 3:30 closing prayers
Times are approximate, so please block off 12:30-4:30pm for the meeting on your calendars and schedules just to be safe!
Thanks everyone and God bless us all and especially, the families in Mexico that are awaiting our help!
Chris
Our team is growing... take a look:
* Youth Servants: Anna (Team leader), Matt (Team leader), Kylie, Megan, Wydarius, Anton, Derrick, Samantha, Ashley, Mariah, Heather, Tina, Charles, Markus, JJ, Kennedy, Kirstie, Benny, Taylor, Julian, Elliot, approx 10 more from SBPC (31)
* Adult Volunteers: Chris, Joan, Pam, Lee, Wayne, Marguerite, Dean, John, Karen, Todd, Kati, Josh, Justin, Roland, Trini, Amy, Brian, Dave, Pastor Jim, Pastor Sunny, Maryann, Emily, Shalon (23)
That's about 54 and counting... the team from SBPC and Younglife of Southbay will be meeting us for this Sunday's meeting!
Fundraising Continues:
* SATURDAY - BINGO at the church for fun and raising funds! We'll have the games ready! Check in time for all youths is 9am for setup. We'll have food servers, game managers, car washers... everyone will rotate and make things happen! Let's have a great day! We need food too, so start cooking everyone! Sandwiches will be set up for lunch!
* SUNDAY SERVICE and "Bond-Servant Auction" at the JCC Service! During service, we'll introduce the bond servant auction as a fundraiser and fun way to support the missions trip! Anna & Megan will be performing a skit on supporting the trip, Ashley will be singing with the Worship Team, Vincent, Brenton, Maudy, Paul and Jamal will be teaching a song to the congregation, and we'll show a DVD clip from the team! BE THERE at 9am to support! The auction will be held in the courtyard between services!
* SBPC Fundraisers (info coming soon)... on Tuesday 11/11 we have coupon/flyers for Pat & Oscar's in Torrance (21424 Hawthorne Blvd) where 20% of all the proceeds willbe donated to SBPC! Must have the flyer. Contact Chris to get one! And they have more coming!
And that's just a taste of what God has in store for us on this journey...
Meeting Agenda:
* 1pm-1:30 lunch and fellowship
* 1:30-2pm worship songs, announcements and introductions
* 2pm-2:30 team competition
* 2:30-3pm team VBS training/teachings
* 3:30 closing prayers
Times are approximate, so please block off 12:30-4:30pm for the meeting on your calendars and schedules just to be safe!
Thanks everyone and God bless us all and especially, the families in Mexico that are awaiting our help!
Chris
Monday, October 20, 2008
Miracles upon miracles... share the joy!
Team, this is becomming something absolutely amazing! Just found out about some team members of Younglife that want to join the team, as well as some very good friends from SBPC in Torrance! One gentleman has offered to pay for an entire house that we can build! WOW!
So as God leads us, we want to extend His blessings and grace and work with what He provides! I am talking to Baja Bound about building 2 homes while we are down there, and let's all pray about this and find out what God will do!
This has been a very humbling time of praising God, as He continually reminds us that our plans, our hopes, and our very dreams are all in His glorious hands. He's going to make this missions trip everything it can be, to His ultimate glory! All we have to do is stand firm in the faith, and fight off the fiery arrows from the evil one as we prepare to follow the path (Read Ephesians 6:10-18). The enemy will try to confuse us, scare us, trap us and diffuse the fire in our hearts... and we want to be there for one another in prayer and in heart as we lift one another up and remind each other exactly what we're doing!
Our team so far:
Anna, Markus, Megan, Samantha, Kirstie, Benny, Matt, Kylie, Wydarius, Anton, Charles, Taylor, Julian, Elliot, Kennedy, Justin, Wayne, Marguerite, Joan, Pam, Lee, Dean, Monica, Brian, Amy, Trini, Heather, Heather's buddy, Dave, John, Pastor Sunny, Mary, Vincent, Shalon, Roland, Precious, Pastor Mike and myself! Several others including the SBPC youth not yet named here until 100% confirmations are in place! But our TEAM IS GROWING and God is in control! 38 and counting...
Blessings to you! KEEP PRAYING!
So as God leads us, we want to extend His blessings and grace and work with what He provides! I am talking to Baja Bound about building 2 homes while we are down there, and let's all pray about this and find out what God will do!
This has been a very humbling time of praising God, as He continually reminds us that our plans, our hopes, and our very dreams are all in His glorious hands. He's going to make this missions trip everything it can be, to His ultimate glory! All we have to do is stand firm in the faith, and fight off the fiery arrows from the evil one as we prepare to follow the path (Read Ephesians 6:10-18). The enemy will try to confuse us, scare us, trap us and diffuse the fire in our hearts... and we want to be there for one another in prayer and in heart as we lift one another up and remind each other exactly what we're doing!
Our team so far:
Anna, Markus, Megan, Samantha, Kirstie, Benny, Matt, Kylie, Wydarius, Anton, Charles, Taylor, Julian, Elliot, Kennedy, Justin, Wayne, Marguerite, Joan, Pam, Lee, Dean, Monica, Brian, Amy, Trini, Heather, Heather's buddy, Dave, John, Pastor Sunny, Mary, Vincent, Shalon, Roland, Precious, Pastor Mike and myself! Several others including the SBPC youth not yet named here until 100% confirmations are in place! But our TEAM IS GROWING and God is in control! 38 and counting...
Blessings to you! KEEP PRAYING!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
New Team Members, big Donation!!!
Hey Everyone,
I spent Friday night at SBPC serving their Younglife of South Bay youth group with the volunteer team that I've known and been very close with! They are always an inspiration, and I had the blessing of sharing our Missions Trip and extending an invitation to their youth! And I'm humbled and in awe, once again of God's wonder and glory as the excitement was immediate! I'm so happy to have the hope of having Pastor Sunny's entire family join us (I'm praying like crazy!) and several more of the youth!
In addition, a miracle just fell into our laps! We received a huge donation that covers our October payment and once again... momentum is building! God is too good... We've raised over $10,000.00 so far, and we still have a ways to go, but what a fantastic way to get things rolling! Finish and send out your support letters right away! Your supporters are needed!
An update from Mexico:
1. The family is doing well, and that's the most important part as they wait for our help!
2. VBS lessons are now available for the week!
3. Our itinerary has been posted, although complete details are still forthcoming!
4. We may be doing more than 1 house! We have to servants, we have to momentum, and we have God on our side!
PRAISE REPORT!
* LA County is hearing about our trip, and they are very supportive! 2 foster youth under 15 years of age have already been approved by the courts and are officially team members! This is in no way a normal happening! This is an outright miracle and the foster community is being shaken up! Let everyone beware the poer and glory of our beloved King! WOW!
PRAYER REQUESTS: Shared by meeting attendees on 10/12
* Derrick - Being safe, the family, Lord w/us
* Anton - That he can make it there, help w/fundraising
* John - People are touched and involved
* Kodi - fundraising
* Matt - Be able to go (Health circumstance)
* Wydarius - for everyone who wants to go to be able to
* Angel - For families to go, that he can go
* Amy - God can continue to work miracles for us, that our efforts please Him
* Michael - He'll be w/us in spirit, help us w/fundraising
* Marguerite - for the family in need down in Mexico, changing lives
* Samantha - Smooth process, foster youth
* Wayne - We internalize our wristbands and share them, fundraiser participation
* Markus - Participation overall, courage for evangelism
* Austin - Help w/fundraisers, family in Mexico
* Stephen - Help w/fundraisers, our journey is blessed
* Trini - Reaching out to all she knows, energy for us with busy times ahead
* Megan - Heart to stay on fire, make an impact, God speaks through her
* Anna - Letters would touch others, team dynamics
* Chris - God to use us and bless others through our journey, the family would stay safe until we arrive.
I spent Friday night at SBPC serving their Younglife of South Bay youth group with the volunteer team that I've known and been very close with! They are always an inspiration, and I had the blessing of sharing our Missions Trip and extending an invitation to their youth! And I'm humbled and in awe, once again of God's wonder and glory as the excitement was immediate! I'm so happy to have the hope of having Pastor Sunny's entire family join us (I'm praying like crazy!) and several more of the youth!
In addition, a miracle just fell into our laps! We received a huge donation that covers our October payment and once again... momentum is building! God is too good... We've raised over $10,000.00 so far, and we still have a ways to go, but what a fantastic way to get things rolling! Finish and send out your support letters right away! Your supporters are needed!
An update from Mexico:
1. The family is doing well, and that's the most important part as they wait for our help!
2. VBS lessons are now available for the week!
3. Our itinerary has been posted, although complete details are still forthcoming!
4. We may be doing more than 1 house! We have to servants, we have to momentum, and we have God on our side!
PRAISE REPORT!
* LA County is hearing about our trip, and they are very supportive! 2 foster youth under 15 years of age have already been approved by the courts and are officially team members! This is in no way a normal happening! This is an outright miracle and the foster community is being shaken up! Let everyone beware the poer and glory of our beloved King! WOW!
PRAYER REQUESTS: Shared by meeting attendees on 10/12
* Derrick - Being safe, the family, Lord w/us
* Anton - That he can make it there, help w/fundraising
* John - People are touched and involved
* Kodi - fundraising
* Matt - Be able to go (Health circumstance)
* Wydarius - for everyone who wants to go to be able to
* Angel - For families to go, that he can go
* Amy - God can continue to work miracles for us, that our efforts please Him
* Michael - He'll be w/us in spirit, help us w/fundraising
* Marguerite - for the family in need down in Mexico, changing lives
* Samantha - Smooth process, foster youth
* Wayne - We internalize our wristbands and share them, fundraiser participation
* Markus - Participation overall, courage for evangelism
* Austin - Help w/fundraisers, family in Mexico
* Stephen - Help w/fundraisers, our journey is blessed
* Trini - Reaching out to all she knows, energy for us with busy times ahead
* Megan - Heart to stay on fire, make an impact, God speaks through her
* Anna - Letters would touch others, team dynamics
* Chris - God to use us and bless others through our journey, the family would stay safe until we arrive.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
HOW DO I WRITE MY SUPPORT LETTER?
Your support letters will be the primary source of raised donations for our mission's trip! Once completed, we will email and mail and hand them out to everyone we know! I will also be compiling them all for a submission to multiple corporations and media outlets for awareness and hopes of sponsorships and more! So how do you write one?
Some quick tips:
1. Keep it simple - get to the point!
2. Be yourself - share your heart!
3. Invite everyone & anyone - Just getting the letter and reading it, makes someone a supporter!
4. Pray for it - Pray for everyone you share your letters with!
WRITING IDEAS:
Remeber this "formula" - ME, WE, GOD, YOU, WE. A 5 point formula that can help you write your letter! keeping the quick tips above in mind, try this:
* ME - Introduce yourself and tell them why you're writing!
* WE - Why are you writing to them and what do you want them to know!
* GOD - What this trip is all about! How that empowers you, motivates you, and makes you feel!
* YOU - So how can YOU help? How can you be part of the trip?
* WE - With all that said, what can WE do together, as spiritual partners in Christ, on this Mission Trip?
Some additional tips:
a) If you want to add a photo, it really helps remind them what you're all about. Make ir personal! If you need a photo scanned or help adding it to your letter, let me help!
b) Share your letter before finishing it with someone else. Let them be part of your heart and give you feedback, and even help with small things such as spelling and grammer!
c) Type it up! Don't let it be something that is difficult to read. Sign it yourself at the bottom of it in your own hand.
d) Use my support letter as an example for you... you can also contact me for the Word Document so you can copy and paste the cutoff template. Use that!
Questions: Call or email me ANY time. Day or night...
God Bless you!
Some quick tips:
1. Keep it simple - get to the point!
2. Be yourself - share your heart!
3. Invite everyone & anyone - Just getting the letter and reading it, makes someone a supporter!
4. Pray for it - Pray for everyone you share your letters with!
WRITING IDEAS:
Remeber this "formula" - ME, WE, GOD, YOU, WE. A 5 point formula that can help you write your letter! keeping the quick tips above in mind, try this:
* ME - Introduce yourself and tell them why you're writing!
* WE - Why are you writing to them and what do you want them to know!
* GOD - What this trip is all about! How that empowers you, motivates you, and makes you feel!
* YOU - So how can YOU help? How can you be part of the trip?
* WE - With all that said, what can WE do together, as spiritual partners in Christ, on this Mission Trip?
Some additional tips:
a) If you want to add a photo, it really helps remind them what you're all about. Make ir personal! If you need a photo scanned or help adding it to your letter, let me help!
b) Share your letter before finishing it with someone else. Let them be part of your heart and give you feedback, and even help with small things such as spelling and grammer!
c) Type it up! Don't let it be something that is difficult to read. Sign it yourself at the bottom of it in your own hand.
d) Use my support letter as an example for you... you can also contact me for the Word Document so you can copy and paste the cutoff template. Use that!
Questions: Call or email me ANY time. Day or night...
God Bless you!
MISSIONS TRIP FUNDRAISING!
Hey Team,
We need leaders to help run and organize our fundraising efforts! Use the Comments link to make that happen and ask questions! Get on board and let's do this!
1. Wristband Sales - We should be getting our silicon wristbands that are a blue/white marble swirl design with the words, "I'm Baja Bound" on one side, and www.youthjourney.org on the other! We get them for 70 cents each, and should be selling them at $3 for one or $5 for two, but whatever it takes! Sell them to friends, family, supporters...
2. Serving at the Women's Retreat! The ladies need servers on Saturday, October 18th a the church! We need to be there in force to support our ladies, making sure they have a relaxing and special day. We need to make sure Maruerite has the easiest ministry day of her life! The funds raised are not the major part of this service opportunity, as it's all about the ladies, being the "Bride of Christ". Count on being there from about 8am-2-3pm.
3. BINGO! - Hopefully on Saturday, November 8th we'll behosting a community BINGO event at the church location in a very special day! We need to hand out invitations, have food and beverages served throughout the event, and runners for guests as we provide a fun way to raise money playing BINGO! Invite everyone! Probably from 10am-2pm. Later that night we'll come back and celebrate Wayne's birthday!
DATES NOT YET SET:
* Garage Sale/Bake Sale - Just like our church did for FOA, we're going to collect and sell everything we can to the community raising money for the trip! Count on a Saturday in November or even early December.
* TV Audience Trip - We're trying to set up a day where we can attend as a studio audience that will pay us $15 per person! What a fun and entertaining way to raise money for our trip! We may do this twice, once in October and once again in November
Sign up to be a leader for one of the above!
We need leaders to help run and organize our fundraising efforts! Use the Comments link to make that happen and ask questions! Get on board and let's do this!
1. Wristband Sales - We should be getting our silicon wristbands that are a blue/white marble swirl design with the words, "I'm Baja Bound" on one side, and www.youthjourney.org on the other! We get them for 70 cents each, and should be selling them at $3 for one or $5 for two, but whatever it takes! Sell them to friends, family, supporters...
2. Serving at the Women's Retreat! The ladies need servers on Saturday, October 18th a the church! We need to be there in force to support our ladies, making sure they have a relaxing and special day. We need to make sure Maruerite has the easiest ministry day of her life! The funds raised are not the major part of this service opportunity, as it's all about the ladies, being the "Bride of Christ". Count on being there from about 8am-2-3pm.
3. BINGO! - Hopefully on Saturday, November 8th we'll behosting a community BINGO event at the church location in a very special day! We need to hand out invitations, have food and beverages served throughout the event, and runners for guests as we provide a fun way to raise money playing BINGO! Invite everyone! Probably from 10am-2pm. Later that night we'll come back and celebrate Wayne's birthday!
DATES NOT YET SET:
* Garage Sale/Bake Sale - Just like our church did for FOA, we're going to collect and sell everything we can to the community raising money for the trip! Count on a Saturday in November or even early December.
* TV Audience Trip - We're trying to set up a day where we can attend as a studio audience that will pay us $15 per person! What a fun and entertaining way to raise money for our trip! We may do this twice, once in October and once again in November
Sign up to be a leader for one of the above!
Monday, September 15, 2008
Who's Going on the Missions Trip?
WOW... after taking commitments this past week, something special is really happening... Take a sneak peek at who exactly has said "yes" so far! It's exciting! You don't have to go physically to support the trip. We encourage everyone to pray and be a part of the Journey!
Leaders (all 8 of us!): Joan, Pam, Monica, Marguerite, Wayne, Dean, Lee, Chris
Youths (18 so far!): Anna, Samantha, Kirstie Bianca, Kylie, Megan, Marie, Tiwanisha, Whitney, Tina, Matt, Paul, Kenneth, Anton, Jamichael, Precious, Kiron, Charles
Youth (Maybes): Ilima, Heather, Jamal, Calene
Adult Vols (5 so far!): Trini, Brian, Vincent, Raja, Annie
31 and counting... join the journey, be part of the experience, live the faith! RSVP and make things happen... TODAY! Go to http://www.youthjourney.org/ right away!
Leaders (all 8 of us!): Joan, Pam, Monica, Marguerite, Wayne, Dean, Lee, Chris
Youths (18 so far!): Anna, Samantha, Kirstie Bianca, Kylie, Megan, Marie, Tiwanisha, Whitney, Tina, Matt, Paul, Kenneth, Anton, Jamichael, Precious, Kiron, Charles
Youth (Maybes): Ilima, Heather, Jamal, Calene
Adult Vols (5 so far!): Trini, Brian, Vincent, Raja, Annie
31 and counting... join the journey, be part of the experience, live the faith! RSVP and make things happen... TODAY! Go to http://www.youthjourney.org/ right away!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Youth Journey Missions Trip Update!
Wow... be sure to go to http://www.youthjourney.org and go to the Missions page! There have been many updates and correspondence and we are ready to start forming the team and raise funds! There is a complete step by step on what is happening and what to do! You can download and view all the material we have created thus far in preparation! Check out:
1. The Photo gallery from our preview trip in July
2. Letters proposing and detailing the Missions Trip to the Church Leadership Team
3. Chris' support letter for fundraising and sharing
4. Step by step instructions on what you need to do to join the team
All the details are on the Missions page. This blog will continually be updated for you! So stay in touch and let's make things happen! See you soon... the mission has already begun... it's time to start praying about it!
1. The Photo gallery from our preview trip in July
2. Letters proposing and detailing the Missions Trip to the Church Leadership Team
3. Chris' support letter for fundraising and sharing
4. Step by step instructions on what you need to do to join the team
All the details are on the Missions page. This blog will continually be updated for you! So stay in touch and let's make things happen! See you soon... the mission has already begun... it's time to start praying about it!
Monday, July 28, 2008
Missions Trip to Baja Mexico over New Year's Eve!
In partnership with Baja Bound Ministries and Pastor John Rose of Rancho Vista Church, Youth Journey will be leading a Missions Trip down to Baja, Mexico this holiday season! MARK YOUR CALENDARS and join the team, because YOU ARE NEEDED!
* MARK YOUR CALENDARS - From Sunday afternoon, December 28th 2008 through Friday evening, January 2nd 2009, we're taking youths, families and friends down to Baja Mexico to build at least one house for families in desperate need!
* Photos from Joan and I's overnight preview trip back on July 17th can be seen at http://www.youthjourney.org/. Check out the Snapfish gallery links.
SEE A NEED, FILL A NEED...
Brothers & sisters... the time is NOW! We met a family of 11 children (all under the age of 12) and 3 adults with only one working father making $10 US per week to support them all, that has no home. The shelter where they were staying is now in use by the owner, and they have no shelter. Our mission is to fill this need with the love of Christ! We'll do this as we...
* Raise money to buy all the materials needed for a new home!
* Get down there, and build the new home to completion!
* Teach the children Vocational Bible School at the local orphanage!
* Perform construction, repairs, cleanup and more for the Children's Home!
We need to raise over $10,000 for all the materials and to make this trip happen for a group of 25, but God willing, I want to see us make arrangements for the maximum of 55 servants willing to give unconditional love and support to those in need! That would put our costs to raise over $20,000.00 but have no fear, the Lord will provide. All He asks of you, is to say "YES!" Let's flood the area with Christ's awesome power... and show the world what love can do!
Full details are on the way... for now, on this blog, add your voices! Join in and RSVP. Start getting your passports together and mark your calendars! These people need you! This New Year's Eve, celebrate with us, by shooting fireworks of grace and faith from the rooftop of a brand new home, for a desperate family... GIVE YOURSELF AWAY this holiday season!
RSVP now! Ask Questions... get involved... JUST DO IT!
* MARK YOUR CALENDARS - From Sunday afternoon, December 28th 2008 through Friday evening, January 2nd 2009, we're taking youths, families and friends down to Baja Mexico to build at least one house for families in desperate need!
* Photos from Joan and I's overnight preview trip back on July 17th can be seen at http://www.youthjourney.org/. Check out the Snapfish gallery links.
SEE A NEED, FILL A NEED...
Brothers & sisters... the time is NOW! We met a family of 11 children (all under the age of 12) and 3 adults with only one working father making $10 US per week to support them all, that has no home. The shelter where they were staying is now in use by the owner, and they have no shelter. Our mission is to fill this need with the love of Christ! We'll do this as we...
* Raise money to buy all the materials needed for a new home!
* Get down there, and build the new home to completion!
* Teach the children Vocational Bible School at the local orphanage!
* Perform construction, repairs, cleanup and more for the Children's Home!
We need to raise over $10,000 for all the materials and to make this trip happen for a group of 25, but God willing, I want to see us make arrangements for the maximum of 55 servants willing to give unconditional love and support to those in need! That would put our costs to raise over $20,000.00 but have no fear, the Lord will provide. All He asks of you, is to say "YES!" Let's flood the area with Christ's awesome power... and show the world what love can do!
Full details are on the way... for now, on this blog, add your voices! Join in and RSVP. Start getting your passports together and mark your calendars! These people need you! This New Year's Eve, celebrate with us, by shooting fireworks of grace and faith from the rooftop of a brand new home, for a desperate family... GIVE YOURSELF AWAY this holiday season!
RSVP now! Ask Questions... get involved... JUST DO IT!
How are you feeling about the Face to Face Series?
Full details about the Face to Face series are always online at www.youthjourney.org/sunday.html. The schedule has just been updated to accommodate the teaching on Baptisms back on July 20th! It was a very exciting day on the beach as our very own, Mary Valarguez was baptized by Pastor Jim.
About Face to Face - One of the main things God is leading us towards is an aggressive focus on real life issues our youths will be facing. These are the main questions of a truly Christ-centered life in a world of many ideals. We will be a ministry that "attacks" the issues of real life, the world-views and how Jesus Christ rises above these barriers, anchors and hurdles we face. Please take a look at the below. Perhaps you know of another issue we need to address? Please share, and be ready for an aggressive and proactive initiative, that starts and ends with our Lord and Savior.
Please provide your input, and stay on top of the schedules and teaching subjects. Let us know how we're doing, what we can do to improve, and any other feedback you can give. We can grow together, as a family under Christ, with everyone's help!
About Face to Face - One of the main things God is leading us towards is an aggressive focus on real life issues our youths will be facing. These are the main questions of a truly Christ-centered life in a world of many ideals. We will be a ministry that "attacks" the issues of real life, the world-views and how Jesus Christ rises above these barriers, anchors and hurdles we face. Please take a look at the below. Perhaps you know of another issue we need to address? Please share, and be ready for an aggressive and proactive initiative, that starts and ends with our Lord and Savior.
Please provide your input, and stay on top of the schedules and teaching subjects. Let us know how we're doing, what we can do to improve, and any other feedback you can give. We can grow together, as a family under Christ, with everyone's help!
Friday, July 25, 2008
What do you think of the new location?
Hey everyone! When we need to gain feedback and RSVPs, we'll be using this Blog spot for Youth Journey! I hope it helps everyone get thier voices where they need to be! First, let's start with the obvious. Please comment to us on any feedback you would like to share or advice to give, in regards to our trial period at the Tree of Life Church!
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