Greater Portland Baptist Church

Donavan and Laura Bangs: December 2006 January 2007

Dear Friends,

Many things have occurred since our last prayer letter. On a personal level we have been able to see several relatives prior to Christmas and we have found out Laura's brother will be the father of a set of twins. We were also able to attend one of my oldest friend's wedding. This went well and was on the Saturday prior to Christmas Eve. However, unfortunately somehow I had food poisoning early the next morning. This was rather severe and I was unable to move. To make matters worse it was Sunday, Christmas Eve and I had nobody to cover services for me. But, thankfully when I prepare my messages I write them out fully. Laura then took my message and one of the men in the Church read it out. This went well to my understanding even though Peter was a little nervous, he did well. We also had a fellowship arranged for that day immediately after services. So everyone came around and had an enjoyable time, at least that is how it sounded from my bathroom floor. Laura was wonderful handling the event and the people came together to make everything work. Peter who read my message checked on me and assured me I was not going to die just yet. (Peter is also a doctor.) So that Sunday went just fine even without me. I eventually recovered but ate no solid food for three days. For those of you who know me, that will tell you just how sick I was.

Another man whom I have counseled with also got married early in January but we did not attend the reception as I was still a little unwell. My great uncle died in January and I attended the funeral. Thankfully they were both local.

The ministry has been proceeding and I feel that the people are starting to understand that it requires them to be involved as well. The bible study continues to grow, with new people attending each time. One young man I have counseled with is now starting to attend Sunday services more regularly. I also see a change in attitude toward the things of God, which is very encouraging. The teenagers are now helping put away the equipment after services and assisting in other things for after the Sunday service. The people are starting to bond together which is a great encouragement. We of course still need prayer specifically that we would still be able to use our sign. This is because the local council have asked the hotel to remove all signs from their wall. And we know the sign works because even two weeks ago a visitor showed up because he saw the sign.

Also and this is an odd request that more of our people obtain British driving licenses as several would like to drive, but cannot yet because of licensing laws. This would ease Sunday mornings somewhat as currently we take both vehicles and pick up people from different locations.

We thank you for your continued support, and we are grateful that you have allowed us the privilege of being an extension of your church here in England.

In Christ,
Donavan and Laura Bangs