Greater Portland Baptist Church

Donavan and Laura Bangs: June 2007

Dear Friends,

June has been a good month. The first Sunday went well and after morning services and lunch Peter asked if anyone wished to go punting. (A punt is a flat bottomed boat that is propelled along by using a long stick pushed against the river bed.) I declined the invitation as I was rather busy, but our young friend, Delight, eagerly went along. When they returned I was informed that not only did she enjoy the time, but even tried to control the boat herself. This resulted in the boat bumping into another boat, which caused Delight to fall off of her boat into the next boat and then promptly into the river. But, apart from drying out of some shoes there was no long-term damage done. Again she saw another part of Cambridge that most tourists do not, that being the inside of the river. Now she is safely back on her travels through Europe, assisting other missionaries in her own unique way.

The Greek lady, Areti, that my wife and Delight met at a charity shop has been overjoyed to meet fellow Christians. She's been to the church several times and she seems to thirst for the fellowship and wishes to be involved. We would ask for you pray for Areti as she wishes to be used of the Lord in a greater way. Also for her daughter, Christina, who has been troubled with nightmares.

Michael, a young Englishman, has had his enlistment delayed for at least six months. He is growing in Christ and wishes to be baptized, and is actually expressing an interest in learning more about Christ in his life. I will be starting his discipleship courses soon and I would appreciate prayer concerning this matter as there seems to be great potential here.

Our monthly Bible study also went well and we were able to meet Rowena the wife of a young Filipino man named July, he has attended several times but this was her first opportunity. The subject this month concerned establishing standards for your children. Afterward I was even able to give specific advice to some of the families. This Bible study was held at Peter's house. After the Bible study had concluded, I was also able to help Peter in changing out a light fitting. And after a few sparks and resetting a circuit breaker the job was completed. I have also been able to assist another friend in renovating his place. I have enjoyed this and this not only allows me time to practice with my tools on someone else's house. (This pleases my wife.) But, this also gives me an opportunity to continue to share the gospel as we work together. Often our actions expressing the love of Christ do more than just words alone. Also, if you have all their wiring exposed they really want you to stay around.

We thank you for your prayers and support, and even though there may be difficulties with the currency fluctuations, God always provides what we need when we need it. We count it a privilege to be partners in ministry with you, as we all seek to serve His cause.

In Christ,
Donavan and Laura Bangs