Greater Portland Baptist Church

Donavan and Laura Bangs: March 2008

Dear Friends,

March has been a busy month. Both in the ministry and in our own lives. In the ministry we have had several more visitors to services, and we have been able to visit them in their homes. One family from Africa that professed to know Christ as their
Saviour have been regular in attendance, which is encouraging to us and some of our
people. They started attending as a result of the articles I have published in the
Cambourne Crier, which is a local monthly newsletter. Another family we have had a great opportunity to witness to have realized what they need is Christ in their lives. This is a step forward, but they seem unable to take that step of faith. It is exciting, but frustrating to see people on the very edge of life, knowing the information yet unable or unwilling to truly step into the light. We pray that the lord will ripen this fruit for His harvest. Easter was interesting as we were blanketed with snow. I had even thought about changing the songs that day to Christmas carols. Even though some of our regulars could not make it that day we still had three new guests in service, one of which lives in Cambourne. I had made enquiries concerning the possibility of renting a second conference room at the hotel for a separate space for children. However, the price they quoted me was far higher than the first room and would be beyond our budgets. It seems strange that people would trust Christ with the eternal soul, but not the wallet. The people are growing, but as with anywhere it is a long process.

Our baby is now past its due date but this is not unusual with the first child from what I have been told. In the UK they will allow a maximum of 14 days past the due date before they induce labor. We are praying if it is the Lord's will that the baby will come naturally. Everything is proceeding normally and the baby is in the correct position. It just has not bothered coming out yet. So, in this case we can be sure that he is going to be a Baptist because he's late and unwilling to move. It is now very difficult for Laura to move around, so we are all looking forward to this blessed event. Laura's mother and stepfather are visiting with us for two weeks so it should be an interesting time. I will be sending out an e-mail letting you all know when the birth happens as well as including it in next month's letter.

We thank you for your many prayers, both for us and for our people. We count it a privilege to be partners in ministry with you reaching out to this lost and dying world with the true message of salvation and hope for mankind. We ask for wisdom and strength as we seek to fulfill His will in this endeavour.

In Christ,
Donavan and Laura and little boy that will not come out to play yet