Greater Portland Baptist Church

Donavan and Laura Bangs: April 2007

Dear Friends,

April has been an interesting month. We have had a few new visitors come to the church. Some were guests at the hotel, attending a spa weekend, and some were local residents. One lady Ruth, originally from Zimbabwe lives only a few streets away from us. Michael, the young Englishman who is joining the military, seems to be growing closer to God. There is a noticeable difference in his demeanor and behaviour from when we first met. Although whether this translates to an actual relationship with Christ is yet to be seen. Our prayer is that he will accept Christ if he has not yet already before leaving for the military.

I have managed to consolidate the equipment we use into one container. This is a great help as I am able to leave everything wired together and actually project from the container. We had to build it ourselves as to my knowledge nothing like it was available. I call it church in a box. (design available upon request) This also cuts down the packing up time allowing me more time to spend talking with the people.

I have also been able to make some new contacts in an unexpected way. Another resident on the local forum needed to take some things to the local recycling centre. I volunteered to assist them and was able to talk with them during the journey. They accepted the gospel tract and told me they had been reading my articles in the local newsletter. I was not what they had expected, but I get that a lot. Often in England so-called ministers are so far removed from the people that the connection is somewhat lost. Christ was practical in his ministry, not only getting out the words of life, but breaking bread with the people. It is important for the people to see the difference between the generally accepted religious community, and true Christianity. Next Sunday, I will have the opportunity to meet Michael's family. This is because I'm changing my shed. I will be giving my old shed to them, because they need one and I got it for free anyway. The boys will help me disassemble and reassemble over there. It is also an excellent opportunity to speak with other people who would never normally come to church. I really enjoy how God can bless in so many ways with something as simple as a shed. Not only removing something with free help, but also an opportunity to minister.

We ask for your prayers concerning Laura's twin brother, Don, whose wife, Dana, just gave birth to twins one month premature. Also, please pray for the situation with our church sign, the exchange rate, but mostly for wisdom that we would be able to better serve the Lord.

In Christ,
Donavan & Laura Bangs