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Neuburg News 11/27/2003
Prayer Update from Ted and Diane Holzmann (last update was 10/22/03)
For YOU we are thankful:
"We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers. We continually remember before our God and Father your work" (1 Thess. 1:2,3). This letter from Paul was written to the church in Thessalonica in response to Timothy's report (3:6) about their faith and love. Paul went on to write, "How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you?" (3:9)
Those sentiments are our sentiments as we think about you, our friends. You have enriched, blessed and challenged our lives. We pray for you as Paul prayed -- that God would strengthen your hearts so you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God.
Happy Thanksgiving to each and to all!
SOME PEOPLE:
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JUST MARRIED. Andy and Nicole were married in a civil ceremony November 14th. We were their only invited guests besides closest family. While happy for them, we also feel the pain of broken homes: Nicole's father chose at the last minute not to come. However, four church families were outside waiting to express their joy and best wishes to the newlyweds. That was a strong testimony to the relatives who were present. Nicole and Andy plan a church ceremony for the Spring, and desire (pre-)marital counseling with us in the winter. PRAY for them this weekend, as they attend a marriage prepare/enrich seminar. |
DOUBLE DATE: Birgit has a new friend with whom she is openly sharing the gospel. He is open to a double-date with us. So, we have tentatively planned a date night on December 12th. PRAY that Uwe's openness leads to new life in Christ.
SOME PROGRAMS:
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WHERE's THE SILVER LINING? Lutz Langhoff presented two variety shows on November 13 in the Neuburg Theater. The press published a rather lengthy and thought-provoking review. The programs were excellent, providing very professional entertainment with simple and direct gospel content. However, we were miserably disappointed by the attendance, and by the last minute refusal of the deputy mayor to give welcoming remarks; things which have cost -- and still are costing -- Ted, the elders, and some individuals, lots of emotional energy behind the scenes. PRAY for wisdom and grace as Ted and the Elders deal with the fallout within the church and with the mayor's office, and for perspective bigger than the event itself. |
WITNESS AT THE CHRISTMAS MARKET. The Elders and other men of the church will set up a stand on the market place tonight. For the four weekends of Advent the church will be selling books, calendars, Christmas CDs, children’s items, Bibles, and handmade items. Last year the church found great acceptance, and this year we have been given an even more central location. (Perhaps a group of you might like to organize a Christmas Caroler choir... Germans don't know this tradition! Well, perhaps for some future year.) PRAY for people be drawn to consider the real meaning of Christmas.
MEMBERS CLASS. There are five individuals who are committed to becoming members. In order not to delay the event by our being in the States from Dec 25 to Jan 24, Ted and the elders will conduct a new members class Saturday afternoon, Dec 13. PRAY with thanksgiving for those who are taking this step, and PRAY for wisdom and guidance in re-designing the material for the established time constraints.
PERSONALLY:
We look forward to celebrating Thanksgiving with some North Americans and Germans on Saturday afternoon on the south side of Augsburg. We will contribute a couple of deep dish apple pies!
And, we are counting down the days to our flight to Albany on Christmas Day, and the joy we will have with family and with many of you!
Thankful in Christ,
Ted & Diane
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