Greater Portland Baptist Church

Donavan and Laura Bangs: October 2007

We were blessed with being able to attend the 30th Anniversary of Rheinland Baptist Church. This as you may know was the church in which I was saved, called to preach and called to missions. This is also the place where I met and married my wondrous wife, Laura. It was great to see some old friends and the fellowship of other mature believers was very refreshing. That church, even though it is somewhat isolated in Germany, has truly helped make an impact on the world for the cause of Christ.

Another project I had been involved in was putting together a presentation for a home school group in the states concerning England and missions. I will be placing a link on my website to it in case anyone else wants to see. From reports back from the group it was just what they wanted.

Things have been progressing with our own people and it is encouraging to see them understanding more and attempting to apply biblical principles to their lives. Michael and Peter even assisted me in putting together the Murphy bed that we are installing downstairs. This was fun even though we almost lost an arm due to the pistons being compressed. These things are all part of preparations for the newest member of our family whom we found out is due to arrive on March 29th, 2008. Things are progressing well with the pregnancy and we were able to hear the baby's heart beat. A rather strange sound, but I am hoping when it gets a little older to be able to record it for play back in future years. The gender is still undetermined, but it may be possible next month during Laura's second scan to see.

I have continued assisting one of my friends, Darren, with renovation as this is an excellent time to witness. His wife, Dawn, just gave birth to their first son, so Laura is talking baby things with her. I was mildly electrocuted whilst working with him as he failed to kill the lighting circuit; 240V through my right hand index finger. It did not even move me off of the step ladder. I was fine and it is reassuring to know that God it not done with me yet.

We were able to share the Gospel with another foreign student who took the information, but we are unsure of the outcome as his communication skills were sparse. Our bible study sessions are continuing and we were able to connect on a personal level with some of the families in attendance.

My good friend, David Parker, is currently in Canada seeking the Lord's will for his life. We would ask for prayer concerning that and his safety. Of course, other matters for prayer would be Laura's pregnancy, the growth of the church and surprisingly the exchange rate, which is now about $2.05 to the pound. We thank you all for your faith in Christ to be able to use broken vessels such as ourselves for His great work and pray for God's richest blessings upon you.

In Christ,
Donavan and Laura (and someone else) Bangs

P.S. Let me know if any of you military types are being stationed over here.