Our God is awesome! I give Him all praise and glory for the Ponte Vedra Pastor's Lunch yesterday! I know God encouraged many pastor's hearts and that the fellowship was important. God was so faithful to send many to help. The anointing onThe Body of Christ coming together is always amazing to me! I was so thankful for God touching the pastors and those serving. One pastor gave me permission to share his thought:
"Here we labor to win souls for the Savior while building and equipping saints--and we operate in our own little sphere not knowing others engaged in the same cause.
There are times when I feel like Elijah when he told the Lord that he was all alone. And God replied there were seven thousand others.
Thank you for showing all of us that we are not alone."
As for the saints
who are in the land,
they are the glorious ones in whom is all my delight.
Psalms 16.3
May He continue to weave us together for His Kingdom and His glory!
Susan T. Alberti
June 27,2009
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Kathy Fehling Beaches Habitat - HELP!!!
I have an urgent need for my Kingdom Assignment and thought you may be able to help me get the word out. Part of my assignment involves a bookshelf that will be given to a Habitat Homeowner when they move into their new home (loaded with books customized to their family’s ages including a bible or two). The thought occurred to me that men in our church involved in other ministries (Rod Firestone and Salvation Army or Mike Charles and the Prison group or maybe a senior citizen that enjoys building) may have someone that would benefit from the money and work involved in word-working a bookshelf.
Therefore, before I go down to Target or some other store and buy a mass produced bookshelf for a couple hundred dollars, I wanted to get the word out to see if someone in another ministry knows of a person who could benefit from making 15-20 (not sure of the number yet) bookshelves a year at a fair price. Our first home dedication is at the end of this month so we may end up with the mass produced shelf for that one but please help me get word out as we would much prefer the custom version. Thank you!
Therefore, before I go down to Target or some other store and buy a mass produced bookshelf for a couple hundred dollars, I wanted to get the word out to see if someone in another ministry knows of a person who could benefit from making 15-20 (not sure of the number yet) bookshelves a year at a fair price. Our first home dedication is at the end of this month so we may end up with the mass produced shelf for that one but please help me get word out as we would much prefer the custom version. Thank you!
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
The King's Cup - Lew Barber
Kingdom Assignment 2009 & Forward
Ponte Vedra Presbyterian Church
Competing for “The King’s Cup”
Kingdom Assignment
PVPC June, July August 2009
Lewis Barber
$100 Kingdom Gift
Object: To develop an athletic ministry within the Body of Christ at PVPC which will (1) attract young adults to offer growth in understanding of God’s purpose for their lives (2) directly support a love ministry benefiting others outside the church body and (3) allow participants to develop relationships with others, learning the joys of gathering for His glory.
Use of Gift from God
$100 Trophy “The King’s Cup”
Basis of Young Adult (18-30) Program
Under the PVPC Young Adult Ministry (Jake)
1. Hold three (3) Sporting Events
Fall (soccer) --- Winter (basketball) --- Spring (softball)
2. Compete for “The King’s Cup”
3. Basic “rules” for Competition
A. In order to compete, young adults within the body will
be encouraged to bring guests, friends, workmates, etc. to
join in the fellowship
B. A gift ($20 recommended) will be given to compete
(winning team to select ministry, non-profit, mission, or
Kingdom Assignment cause to support with funds)
C. A word on discipleship / stewardship will be given either
before or after the event, with refreshments to follow
D. A separate work will be done to secure funding for
equipment, venues, refreshments and shirts (to
commemorate the event)
Biblical Basis for Kingdom Assignment
The King’s Cup
“Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:7-8
“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” Philippians 2:3
“The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” Romans 12:8-10
“Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.” 1 Corinthians 9:25
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.” 1 Corinthians 9:24
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace” 1 Peter 4:10
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Ponte Vedra Presbyterian Church
Competing for “The King’s Cup”
Kingdom Assignment
PVPC June, July August 2009
Lewis Barber
$100 Kingdom Gift
Object: To develop an athletic ministry within the Body of Christ at PVPC which will (1) attract young adults to offer growth in understanding of God’s purpose for their lives (2) directly support a love ministry benefiting others outside the church body and (3) allow participants to develop relationships with others, learning the joys of gathering for His glory.
Use of Gift from God
$100 Trophy “The King’s Cup”
Basis of Young Adult (18-30) Program
Under the PVPC Young Adult Ministry (Jake)
1. Hold three (3) Sporting Events
Fall (soccer) --- Winter (basketball) --- Spring (softball)
2. Compete for “The King’s Cup”
3. Basic “rules” for Competition
A. In order to compete, young adults within the body will
be encouraged to bring guests, friends, workmates, etc. to
join in the fellowship
B. A gift ($20 recommended) will be given to compete
(winning team to select ministry, non-profit, mission, or
Kingdom Assignment cause to support with funds)
C. A word on discipleship / stewardship will be given either
before or after the event, with refreshments to follow
D. A separate work will be done to secure funding for
equipment, venues, refreshments and shirts (to
commemorate the event)
Biblical Basis for Kingdom Assignment
The King’s Cup
“Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:7-8
“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” Philippians 2:3
“The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” Romans 12:8-10
“Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.” 1 Corinthians 9:25
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.” 1 Corinthians 9:24
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace” 1 Peter 4:10
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Pastors Lunch - Susan Alberti
Please pray for the Kingdom Assignment that God has given me. I felt I was to host a Pastor's Lunch for the PVB area on Thursday, June 25 from noon -1:45pm at the Palm Valley Community Center. (Psalms 133, John 17:21) God has asked me to bless the leaders in the Christian Community in our area. They are so pulled on and have so much stress / responsibility. We are also commanded to pray for those in authority. I felt that blessing them food, fellowship and prayer would bring encouragement to the area pastors and then this would flow down to the Body of Christ. The date is Thursday, June 25 noon - 2pm at the Palm Valley Community Center. Please pray this week as I resend emails to the pastors list I have compiled and as I also take invitations to their churches. The local restaurants are considering discounted food. Please pray for favor. Most of all - please pray God knits the leaders in PVB together to fulfill His purposes. To God be the Glory! Thank you for the prayer support - Susan Alberti
Monday, June 15, 2009
KidStuff - Bob Carithers
My kingdom assignment will be directed toward “kids stuff” and working with chuck baxter on formulating a marketing plan to enhance attendance each Sunday and possibly other things chuck feels like he needs that I can provide, along with some other folks. That is the only thing that I feel God has placed on my heart for spending His $100 and other funds that I can raise in this effort.
Thanks for your encouragement and direction with this project. I feel the results of all efforts will be beyond all of our imagination.
Love to you and Robert,
Bob & deede
On Assignment in Georgia, Mike Darby
Dear fellow "K.A.-ers"
I'm Brooke Bishop's dad, live in the mts of N GA & was at the service at your church with you & volunteered for this assignment from the Lord.
Since Lynette asked for us to share, I wanted to share what the Lord led me to do. I share it to encourage all 50 of us to "GO FOR IT", in the name of Jesus and for His glory!
So far, in two weeks, I've received 8 donors for $1000 & am believing for a lot more donors & dollars for my two ministries.
Also, one of my recipient ministries is that of Anne Graham Lotz, who graciously replied (in part):
"Dear Michael…
What a dear email and very precious initiative you have taken to invest in our ministry! Thank you! I had no idea you were in JAX with your daughter at 'Just Give Me Jesus'…I would love to have seen you, if even briefly. We will make sure you are given an account of any funds that come in…"So....brothers & sisters....keep on keepin' on! Peace....Michael Darby
Here's my letter:Saturday, May 30, 2009
Dear Family & Friends,
I have accepted an exciting & challenging KINGDOM ASSIGNMENT! Let me explain.
On April 22, 2009, I went to PonteVedra Beach, FL to visit my daughter, Brooke Bishop & her family, to celebrate Brooke's 40th birthday. She & I had the blessing of attending the “Just give Me Jesus Revival”, led by Anne Graham Lotz. That was inspirational enough...yet there was more that I didn't know was coming!
On Sunday, I attended Ponte Vedra Presbyterian Church with Ben, Brooke, Cord & Darby Bishop. Visiting pastor, Rev. Denny Bellesi, had preached an ordinary stewardship sermon to his congregation at the Coast Hills Community Church in Aliso Viejo, California some years ago. He did the same this particular Sunday to us, using the Parable of the Talents (Matt. 25:14-30). He followed the sermon with an extraordinary call to action, asking for 100 volunteers. I was one of those who volunteered, not having any idea what was coming! He handed us each a new, crisp $100 bill! Bellesi told us volunteers that the money was not ours, but God's, and that we needed to "invest" it in some way that would build God's kingdom. This is a 90 day assignment and ends July 31st!
In the case of his church in CA, the volunteers saw their $100 bills being multiplied into thousands as total strangers offered more money to help them undertake their charity projects. When his volunteers reported back to a standing-room-only church (and, via a Dateline NBC segment, to millions of viewers), they described how the money had been spent to transform lives, build churches, feed the hungry and comfort the sick. These invigorating real-life stories offered excellent examples of Christian faith in action, as church members were forced to leave their comfort zones and search for ways to bless others in the community.
So----this is MY story, as to how I feel God has led me, after MUCH prayer, to invest my (God's) $100:
First I personally matched the $100. Then I selected two ministries...AnGeL Ministries & the Joshua Fund.
1) AnGeL Ministries is an independent, non-profit organization based in Raleigh, North Carolina and is committed to giving out messages of Biblical exposition so that God's Word is personal and relevant to ordinary people. The ministry’s name is derived from the initials of Anne Graham Lotz (AGL) and is especially fitting as an angel’s biblical role is to go only where the Lord sends and to proclaim only the Word of the Lord. AnGeL Ministries serves as the umbrella organization for the diverse ministry of Anne Graham Lotz – The Purpose is to serve God by evangelizing the lost and reviving the hearts of God's people in their relationship with Himself through exalting Jesus Christ and proclaiming God's Word.
2) The Joshua Fund, founded in 2006 by Joel Rosenberg, author of EPICENTER, THE LAST JIHAD and five others---The Mission:
Blessing Israel and her neighbors in the name of Jesus, according to Genesis 12:1-3 Blessing Israel and the nations of the Middle East means:
Praying for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6)
Bringing good news to the afflicted (Isaiah 61:1)
Rebuilding the ancient ruins (Isaiah 61:4)
Caring for the poor (Deuteronomy 15:11)
Being a light to the nations of the Middle East (Isaiah 49:6)
The Joshua Fund, therefore, is a non-profit educational and charitable organization founded to encourage Christians to:
Pray knowledgeably and consistently for Israel and the Middle East
Invite speakers to their churches and conferences to talk about how to bless Israel and her neighbors and to share what God is doing in the Middle East today
Take vision trips to and attend conferences in Israel and the Middle East
Publish Christian books and music in Israel and the Middle East
Invest in the rebuilding of the ancient ruins in the Holy Land
Assist the poor and needy in Israel in the name of Jesus Christ
Support the evangelical Church in Israel and the Middle East as the only true hope for peace and reconciliation
I have personally supported both of these godly ministries for several years and have seen their substantial results in Kingdom work. My prayer and belief is that God will bless those who give and we will see a multiplication of this beginning of $100 + $100 that will impact literally thousands of lives in the name & for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord & Savior!
I will coordinate with the two ministries--both the dollars that come in and the results of the investment of same and report them to my partners in this exciting venture.
1) Please make your check payable to AnGeL Ministries and mail to AnGeL Ministries, 5115 Hollyridge Rd., Raleigh, NC 27612.
2) Please make your check payable to "The Joshua Fund" and send to: The Joshua Fund, 18940 Base Camp Road, Monument Colorado 80132-8009---One final request, dear ones...write on the memo line: Darby Kingdom Assignment AND send me an email of the amount & which ministry. Normally I wouldn't ask, but it's the way I can be accurate in my reporting.
THANKS!My prayer is that you will be as blessed in giving as I am in accepting & activating this KINGDOM ASSIGNMENT! (Any & every dollar counts equally!)
In appreciation for you & what God is going to do...your brother in Christ, Michael Darby
"Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. 'But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.'"-1 Chronicles 29:12-14
I'm Brooke Bishop's dad, live in the mts of N GA & was at the service at your church with you & volunteered for this assignment from the Lord.
Since Lynette asked for us to share, I wanted to share what the Lord led me to do. I share it to encourage all 50 of us to "GO FOR IT", in the name of Jesus and for His glory!
So far, in two weeks, I've received 8 donors for $1000 & am believing for a lot more donors & dollars for my two ministries.
Also, one of my recipient ministries is that of Anne Graham Lotz, who graciously replied (in part):
"Dear Michael…
What a dear email and very precious initiative you have taken to invest in our ministry! Thank you! I had no idea you were in JAX with your daughter at 'Just Give Me Jesus'…I would love to have seen you, if even briefly. We will make sure you are given an account of any funds that come in…"So....brothers & sisters....keep on keepin' on! Peace....Michael Darby
Here's my letter:Saturday, May 30, 2009
Dear Family & Friends,
I have accepted an exciting & challenging KINGDOM ASSIGNMENT! Let me explain.
On April 22, 2009, I went to PonteVedra Beach, FL to visit my daughter, Brooke Bishop & her family, to celebrate Brooke's 40th birthday. She & I had the blessing of attending the “Just give Me Jesus Revival”, led by Anne Graham Lotz. That was inspirational enough...yet there was more that I didn't know was coming!
On Sunday, I attended Ponte Vedra Presbyterian Church with Ben, Brooke, Cord & Darby Bishop. Visiting pastor, Rev. Denny Bellesi, had preached an ordinary stewardship sermon to his congregation at the Coast Hills Community Church in Aliso Viejo, California some years ago. He did the same this particular Sunday to us, using the Parable of the Talents (Matt. 25:14-30). He followed the sermon with an extraordinary call to action, asking for 100 volunteers. I was one of those who volunteered, not having any idea what was coming! He handed us each a new, crisp $100 bill! Bellesi told us volunteers that the money was not ours, but God's, and that we needed to "invest" it in some way that would build God's kingdom. This is a 90 day assignment and ends July 31st!
In the case of his church in CA, the volunteers saw their $100 bills being multiplied into thousands as total strangers offered more money to help them undertake their charity projects. When his volunteers reported back to a standing-room-only church (and, via a Dateline NBC segment, to millions of viewers), they described how the money had been spent to transform lives, build churches, feed the hungry and comfort the sick. These invigorating real-life stories offered excellent examples of Christian faith in action, as church members were forced to leave their comfort zones and search for ways to bless others in the community.
So----this is MY story, as to how I feel God has led me, after MUCH prayer, to invest my (God's) $100:
First I personally matched the $100. Then I selected two ministries...AnGeL Ministries & the Joshua Fund.
1) AnGeL Ministries is an independent, non-profit organization based in Raleigh, North Carolina and is committed to giving out messages of Biblical exposition so that God's Word is personal and relevant to ordinary people. The ministry’s name is derived from the initials of Anne Graham Lotz (AGL) and is especially fitting as an angel’s biblical role is to go only where the Lord sends and to proclaim only the Word of the Lord. AnGeL Ministries serves as the umbrella organization for the diverse ministry of Anne Graham Lotz – The Purpose is to serve God by evangelizing the lost and reviving the hearts of God's people in their relationship with Himself through exalting Jesus Christ and proclaiming God's Word.
2) The Joshua Fund, founded in 2006 by Joel Rosenberg, author of EPICENTER, THE LAST JIHAD and five others---The Mission:
Blessing Israel and her neighbors in the name of Jesus, according to Genesis 12:1-3 Blessing Israel and the nations of the Middle East means:
Praying for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6)
Bringing good news to the afflicted (Isaiah 61:1)
Rebuilding the ancient ruins (Isaiah 61:4)
Caring for the poor (Deuteronomy 15:11)
Being a light to the nations of the Middle East (Isaiah 49:6)
The Joshua Fund, therefore, is a non-profit educational and charitable organization founded to encourage Christians to:
Pray knowledgeably and consistently for Israel and the Middle East
Invite speakers to their churches and conferences to talk about how to bless Israel and her neighbors and to share what God is doing in the Middle East today
Take vision trips to and attend conferences in Israel and the Middle East
Publish Christian books and music in Israel and the Middle East
Invest in the rebuilding of the ancient ruins in the Holy Land
Assist the poor and needy in Israel in the name of Jesus Christ
Support the evangelical Church in Israel and the Middle East as the only true hope for peace and reconciliation
I have personally supported both of these godly ministries for several years and have seen their substantial results in Kingdom work. My prayer and belief is that God will bless those who give and we will see a multiplication of this beginning of $100 + $100 that will impact literally thousands of lives in the name & for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord & Savior!
I will coordinate with the two ministries--both the dollars that come in and the results of the investment of same and report them to my partners in this exciting venture.
1) Please make your check payable to AnGeL Ministries and mail to AnGeL Ministries, 5115 Hollyridge Rd., Raleigh, NC 27612.
2) Please make your check payable to "The Joshua Fund" and send to: The Joshua Fund, 18940 Base Camp Road, Monument Colorado 80132-8009---One final request, dear ones...write on the memo line: Darby Kingdom Assignment AND send me an email of the amount & which ministry. Normally I wouldn't ask, but it's the way I can be accurate in my reporting.
THANKS!My prayer is that you will be as blessed in giving as I am in accepting & activating this KINGDOM ASSIGNMENT! (Any & every dollar counts equally!)
In appreciation for you & what God is going to do...your brother in Christ, Michael Darby
"Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. 'But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.'"-1 Chronicles 29:12-14
Joe Bryant, Intrenet Beggar
Since I will not be able to attend on Wednesday night, I thought I would take a few minutes and give you an update on my Kingdom Assignment project.
My plan is that I'm going to basically be an internet beggar. With my $100 I have secured the website: ACauseforChrist.com and have received a commitment from a website development company to build a very high-end, upscale, classy web site. The site will be designed to bring attention to the two ministries that I want to raise money for: The Walk through Bethlehem and Charles Amisee's (sp ?) work in Haiti. The website will include a personal statement from me about my being brought back closer to the Lord through my attendance at PV Presbyterian and the immense impact these two missions have made on my personal and spiritual life. There will be two short videos highlighting the two missions along with a "Donate Now" box which will allow individuals to make a donation through an SSL (secure socket layer) connection using PayPal or any major credit card. The site will also include a short summary of the Kingdom Assignment program along with links to the Kingdom Assignment website and Lespawaworldwide.com which the website for the Haiti mission as well as the Ponte Vedra Presbyterian Church website.
Most people are not aware of the immense power that is being unleashed through viral internet marketing. My project intends to take fully advantage of the latest cutting-edge principles of the internet marketing community. This will include tagging and adding all meta data as well as invisible page file names to include keywords for better Search Engine crawling and indexing. We're also going to be able to do the newest and latest SEO (search engine optimization) which will greatly increase the visibility of the site on Google. The website development company, GoBreeze.com, has agreed to pull out all stops as it relates to media attention, intense tags for all search engines, strategic placements of news releases, etc. We are also going to create an on-line Blog which will have multiple daily updates. Then, utilizing the power of social networking through sites like Facebook, Squidoo, MySpace, LinkedIn, Flickr, Diggl, etc.
The final action will be an intense email campaign to every email address we can muster. In effect, we will be creating a viral chain letter where we will be asking everyone who receives our message two requests. One, no matter if it is only $1, PLEASE contribute to this wonderful cause, and two, please forward the message and website on to everyone on their contact list.
I candidly don't know what the end result will be, but this is a website with a fabulous story that will be in place with all the internet marketing "gimmicks" for several years. With God's blessing I pray we raise hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Joe Bryant
My plan is that I'm going to basically be an internet beggar. With my $100 I have secured the website: ACauseforChrist.com and have received a commitment from a website development company to build a very high-end, upscale, classy web site. The site will be designed to bring attention to the two ministries that I want to raise money for: The Walk through Bethlehem and Charles Amisee's (sp ?) work in Haiti. The website will include a personal statement from me about my being brought back closer to the Lord through my attendance at PV Presbyterian and the immense impact these two missions have made on my personal and spiritual life. There will be two short videos highlighting the two missions along with a "Donate Now" box which will allow individuals to make a donation through an SSL (secure socket layer) connection using PayPal or any major credit card. The site will also include a short summary of the Kingdom Assignment program along with links to the Kingdom Assignment website and Lespawaworldwide.com which the website for the Haiti mission as well as the Ponte Vedra Presbyterian Church website.
Most people are not aware of the immense power that is being unleashed through viral internet marketing. My project intends to take fully advantage of the latest cutting-edge principles of the internet marketing community. This will include tagging and adding all meta data as well as invisible page file names to include keywords for better Search Engine crawling and indexing. We're also going to be able to do the newest and latest SEO (search engine optimization) which will greatly increase the visibility of the site on Google. The website development company, GoBreeze.com, has agreed to pull out all stops as it relates to media attention, intense tags for all search engines, strategic placements of news releases, etc. We are also going to create an on-line Blog which will have multiple daily updates. Then, utilizing the power of social networking through sites like Facebook, Squidoo, MySpace, LinkedIn, Flickr, Diggl, etc.
The final action will be an intense email campaign to every email address we can muster. In effect, we will be creating a viral chain letter where we will be asking everyone who receives our message two requests. One, no matter if it is only $1, PLEASE contribute to this wonderful cause, and two, please forward the message and website on to everyone on their contact list.
I candidly don't know what the end result will be, but this is a website with a fabulous story that will be in place with all the internet marketing "gimmicks" for several years. With God's blessing I pray we raise hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Joe Bryant
Sunday, June 14, 2009
George Knapp's 2nd Letter
GEORGE R. KNAPP
®®®
8208 Seven Mile Drive
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
904-373-0095
Grknapp@aol.com
June 1, 2009
To My Friends and Family:
Here is an update on the “Kingdom Assignment”, about which I wrote to you several weeks ago.
Funding--The $100 with which I began has grown to over $5,000, thanks to your generous contributions. There is still plenty of time to make a donation, which should be payable to me and mailed to my home address. While I cannot yet be sure how things will turn out, I believe that most, if not all, of the donations will be tax-deductible to the giver—I will supply a copy of a receipt from a charity and a note explaining what percentages were given to which charities.
Ideas—You have responded with a large number of great, worthy projects. It has been difficult to choose from among them. My leaning right now is to support Seamark Ranch in Green Cove Springs, FL. This is a wonderful facility that houses children, who cannot live with their parents, in real family home environments, with live-in married couple supervision, education, counseling, real-life skills teaching, etc. Please visit their website at http://www.seamarkranch.com/. Seamark Ranch needs to equip a library for the resident children—they have plenty of books but need shelving, tables and other equipment to turn stacks of reading materials into a usable study and research facility. Other projects are also under consideration, with betterment of underprivileged or hurting children being the common denominator among them. After my interviews with charity directors, I decided that for any goods purchased as part of this project I would personally get involved in negotiating prices.
Prayers—Your prayers certainly have been heard, for I have felt a strong calling to apply the project funds to help children in need. Your continued help in this regard would be most appreciated.
Thank you so much for reading this update all the way through and thank you for your help. I will report to you further on the status of the Kingdom Assignment.
Best regards,
.
®®®
8208 Seven Mile Drive
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
904-373-0095
Grknapp@aol.com
June 1, 2009
To My Friends and Family:
Here is an update on the “Kingdom Assignment”, about which I wrote to you several weeks ago.
Funding--The $100 with which I began has grown to over $5,000, thanks to your generous contributions. There is still plenty of time to make a donation, which should be payable to me and mailed to my home address. While I cannot yet be sure how things will turn out, I believe that most, if not all, of the donations will be tax-deductible to the giver—I will supply a copy of a receipt from a charity and a note explaining what percentages were given to which charities.
Ideas—You have responded with a large number of great, worthy projects. It has been difficult to choose from among them. My leaning right now is to support Seamark Ranch in Green Cove Springs, FL. This is a wonderful facility that houses children, who cannot live with their parents, in real family home environments, with live-in married couple supervision, education, counseling, real-life skills teaching, etc. Please visit their website at http://www.seamarkranch.com/. Seamark Ranch needs to equip a library for the resident children—they have plenty of books but need shelving, tables and other equipment to turn stacks of reading materials into a usable study and research facility. Other projects are also under consideration, with betterment of underprivileged or hurting children being the common denominator among them. After my interviews with charity directors, I decided that for any goods purchased as part of this project I would personally get involved in negotiating prices.
Prayers—Your prayers certainly have been heard, for I have felt a strong calling to apply the project funds to help children in need. Your continued help in this regard would be most appreciated.
Thank you so much for reading this update all the way through and thank you for your help. I will report to you further on the status of the Kingdom Assignment.
Best regards,
.
George Knapp's Letter
GEORGE R. KNAPP
®®®
8208 Seven Mile Drive
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
904-373-0095
Grknapp@aol.com
May 1, 2009
To My Friends and Family:
Along with several others, I have just accepted a “Kingdom Assignment” from my church. Each of us has been given $100 and asked to apply it to God’s work in the world, then report back to the congregation at a meeting in a couple of months. The scriptural passage on which the challenge is based is Matthew 25:14-30, which recounts Jesus’ parable of the master who gave funds to his servants and then assessed their stewardship of them. While I have not decided the direction in which I should go with this challenge, I did decide on the first step, namely to ask for your help in three areas.
You can help with funding. While I am sure that I could make some impact with the $100 plus the $1,000 that I will add to it, I am even surer that with more money I can accomplish much more. I want to multiply the $100 stewardship fund, hoping to reach at least $10,000 in total. I ask you to make a contribution, matching the $100 or bettering it if you can, but any amount will be gratefully received.
You can help with ideas. Hunger, housing, disease, conflict, broken families—these are all broad areas of humanitarian concern, within which my chosen project will probably fall. Of interest to me right now are supporting worthy, needy immigrant families in the United States (such as the Lost Boys of Sudan), providing groceries or meals to the poor, and aiding Iraqi children in need of medical care or educational assistance, but I am completely open to other ideas. You may know of a specific individual or family that has a pressing need or a mission that is near to your heart. Please let me know of your thoughts in this area.
You can help with your prayers for all of us stewards to invest God’s money wisely and for His purposes.
Thank you so much for reading this email all the way through and thank you for your help. I will also report to you on the outcome of the Kingdom Assignment.
Best Regards,
P.S. Contributions can be mailed to me. If the Kingdom Assignment turns out to be a contribution to a registered charitable organization, I will provide you with the backup paperwork so that you can deduct the contribution.
®®®
8208 Seven Mile Drive
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
904-373-0095
Grknapp@aol.com
May 1, 2009
To My Friends and Family:
Along with several others, I have just accepted a “Kingdom Assignment” from my church. Each of us has been given $100 and asked to apply it to God’s work in the world, then report back to the congregation at a meeting in a couple of months. The scriptural passage on which the challenge is based is Matthew 25:14-30, which recounts Jesus’ parable of the master who gave funds to his servants and then assessed their stewardship of them. While I have not decided the direction in which I should go with this challenge, I did decide on the first step, namely to ask for your help in three areas.
You can help with funding. While I am sure that I could make some impact with the $100 plus the $1,000 that I will add to it, I am even surer that with more money I can accomplish much more. I want to multiply the $100 stewardship fund, hoping to reach at least $10,000 in total. I ask you to make a contribution, matching the $100 or bettering it if you can, but any amount will be gratefully received.
You can help with ideas. Hunger, housing, disease, conflict, broken families—these are all broad areas of humanitarian concern, within which my chosen project will probably fall. Of interest to me right now are supporting worthy, needy immigrant families in the United States (such as the Lost Boys of Sudan), providing groceries or meals to the poor, and aiding Iraqi children in need of medical care or educational assistance, but I am completely open to other ideas. You may know of a specific individual or family that has a pressing need or a mission that is near to your heart. Please let me know of your thoughts in this area.
You can help with your prayers for all of us stewards to invest God’s money wisely and for His purposes.
Thank you so much for reading this email all the way through and thank you for your help. I will also report to you on the outcome of the Kingdom Assignment.
Best Regards,
P.S. Contributions can be mailed to me. If the Kingdom Assignment turns out to be a contribution to a registered charitable organization, I will provide you with the backup paperwork so that you can deduct the contribution.
Kingdom Assignment Mid-Way Gathering
Wow, what an awesome time we had! It was a great evening of food, sharing stories & needs and talking to Denny on the phone!! We missed those who were unable to attend & can't wait to hear your stories, too.
A couple of common threads from the stories we heard:
Richard started everything with a blessing & brief talk, thanking everyone for coming & acceptance of their Kingdom Assignment charge. Members of the Connect, Engage, Go Resource Team told a little of their responsibilities with Kingdom Assignment & Blueprint for Life which they facilitated for our church-wide study.
Project Partners, Liz & Al Hammack, spoke about their role & thankful hearts to hear the stories & be part of our Kingdom Assignment.
Our 'Well Done Celebration' will be Sunday, September 13, 2009. We are prayerful that Denny & his wife, Leesa, will be able to be with us. Please join us in those prayers.
One of PVPC's small groups is going to fund a 'Kingdom Assignment' for another local church - with Richard's blessing & help.
Some individual videos were shot (thanks to Kevin Fornes!) and we plan to show them to the congregation soon.
David Swicegood prayed for us all and introduced the 'Kingdom Assignment' Prayer Team who has been praying for each one 'on assignment' 6 weeks before the 'Kingdom Assignment' was launched. One prayer was from Sharon Hawes who couldn't be with us at the last minute. For her 'Kingdom Assignment' to move forward she needed to speak with someone from Habitat for Humanity & was not having much luck. A prayer that Sharon would connect with the person she needed to talk to was lifted up and Kathy Fehling said that she could help Sharon with that. Well, answered prayer: Sharon & Kathy have talked to Habitat for Humanity and are moving forward with their 'Kingdom Assignments' that fit so well together!
Denny encouraged each of us to continue moving forward on our Kingdom Assignments. He's excited & encouraged to hear all the stories. Bill Flemister asked Denny if he would contribute $50.00 to his Kingdom Assignment! Denny talked about their recent annual "Well Done Awards" & hoped that we might be there next year!
We always save the 'best for last'. Here it is:
The financial climate had affected his ability to give as before. As the offering plate was passed at PVPC on Sunday morning, April 26, 2009, he reached into his pocket to find a crumpled $1.00 bill. As he placed the $1.00 bill in the plate, he prayed: Father, I know you can take this gift & it will reap a hundredfold. A short time later and not knowing why, he responded to Denny's invitation to come forward. Little did he know that his response of stepping forward would result in his receiving $100.00 from our Lord to do God's work. Talk about answered prayer!!!
God never asks us to do something without giving us power for the task.
A couple of common threads from the stories we heard:
- Many are seeking the financial help of friends & family to grow their 'assignment'.
- There is a lot of need out there - so much so that it's hard to decide.
- Right place at the right time - it was amazing to hear how God put people in place at the right time.
Richard started everything with a blessing & brief talk, thanking everyone for coming & acceptance of their Kingdom Assignment charge. Members of the Connect, Engage, Go Resource Team told a little of their responsibilities with Kingdom Assignment & Blueprint for Life which they facilitated for our church-wide study.
Project Partners, Liz & Al Hammack, spoke about their role & thankful hearts to hear the stories & be part of our Kingdom Assignment.
Our 'Well Done Celebration' will be Sunday, September 13, 2009. We are prayerful that Denny & his wife, Leesa, will be able to be with us. Please join us in those prayers.
One of PVPC's small groups is going to fund a 'Kingdom Assignment' for another local church - with Richard's blessing & help.
Some individual videos were shot (thanks to Kevin Fornes!) and we plan to show them to the congregation soon.
David Swicegood prayed for us all and introduced the 'Kingdom Assignment' Prayer Team who has been praying for each one 'on assignment' 6 weeks before the 'Kingdom Assignment' was launched. One prayer was from Sharon Hawes who couldn't be with us at the last minute. For her 'Kingdom Assignment' to move forward she needed to speak with someone from Habitat for Humanity & was not having much luck. A prayer that Sharon would connect with the person she needed to talk to was lifted up and Kathy Fehling said that she could help Sharon with that. Well, answered prayer: Sharon & Kathy have talked to Habitat for Humanity and are moving forward with their 'Kingdom Assignments' that fit so well together!
Denny encouraged each of us to continue moving forward on our Kingdom Assignments. He's excited & encouraged to hear all the stories. Bill Flemister asked Denny if he would contribute $50.00 to his Kingdom Assignment! Denny talked about their recent annual "Well Done Awards" & hoped that we might be there next year!
We always save the 'best for last'. Here it is:
The financial climate had affected his ability to give as before. As the offering plate was passed at PVPC on Sunday morning, April 26, 2009, he reached into his pocket to find a crumpled $1.00 bill. As he placed the $1.00 bill in the plate, he prayed: Father, I know you can take this gift & it will reap a hundredfold. A short time later and not knowing why, he responded to Denny's invitation to come forward. Little did he know that his response of stepping forward would result in his receiving $100.00 from our Lord to do God's work. Talk about answered prayer!!!
God never asks us to do something without giving us power for the task.
The Upper Room May 31, 2009
Blessings,
Lynette
Numbers 6:24-26
Lynette
Numbers 6:24-26
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
This is a letter I sent out for my Kingdom Assignment
Dear Friends:
As you may know, this past year I was heavily involved in the teenager ministry at our church, Ponte Vedra Presbyterian. I became a "Salt Life" leader of 6 girls with whom I quickly bonded and fell in love. They are just your normal teenagers struggling through issues our generation could not even imagine....extreme body self-image, drugs, sex, drinking, constant connection with technology devices, sexting, etc. During our time together, they slowly opened up and shared their life as I did with them. They are just like sponges and I can tell you...you want them soaking up the right stuff!!!!
One girl in particular, "M"., touched my heart and soul. Her mom is really not in the picture or involved in her life and she lives with her father and brother in a rented house in Ponte Vedra. She's a lovely girl with long, blond hair and infectious smile. We quickly connected. So, when it came time earlier this year to sign up for the yearly youth camp, I was excited to spend more time with her and the other girls as this was the high school camp they would be attending since they are rising 9th graders.
As you can imagine, the economic situation has made it very difficult for many to attend, including "M". She said "there is no way my Dad could afford it." I respected her maturity in dealing with this disappointment and did not press the issue. However, a few weeks ago, at our church's 20 year anniversary celebration, we had a guest pastor, Denny Bellesi, from California who asked for 50 volunteers to come forward. Both Bill and I left our seats and joined the other 48 people. Mr. Bellesi then proceeded to hand us each a crisp $100 bill! We were stunned to say the least...as was the congregation!
He quickly explained that:
#1) this was not our money but God's;
#2) we were trusted to invest the money in a way that would extend God's kingdom; and
#3) to report to our congregation in 90 days how the money was used.
I was so excited about this adventure, and began to pray about how God could use this $100 through me. I heard nothing....days and weeks have gone by.....and now, I know in my heart, I am to use this $100 as the seed money to send "M" to camp. We only need $300.00 more as the total is $400 for the week. I am asking you all to join me in making a difference in this young girl's life by giving her a week I'm sure she'll never forget and one that can have an eternal significance. No contribution is too small....$25, $50...whatever you can afford at this time. I know times are hard for everyone right now...including us! Bill and I would sponsor the whole thing, but I think with the timing of the Kingdom Assignment and this camp...it's beyond coincidence....and isn't it neat if we could join together as a group and be used in such a mighty way!!!!
I know there are alot of wonderful charities and causes out there much more serious and heart-breaking than sending a child to church camp; however, you have an opportunity to make a true difference in "M's" life. She will not only be with her other friends and trusted leaders, but hear the truth of God's love and purpose for her life...which is exactly what these teenagers need....a sense of purpose and destiny...including just being loved and accepted...and having strong, female role-models.
She does not know I am writing this, as she would be too embarrassed. I am planning on saying that the Kingdom Assignment is sponsoring her to go and including your name, if you wish. Or you may wish to remain anonymous. I am only sending it to a few, trusted friends right here in Ponte Vedra and Atlanta. I trust God will make this happen one way or another....if you could just reply back to me and let me know if you're interested, or need more information, I would appreciate it. I don't even have to have the money, just the pledged amount! It is somewhat time-sensitive however....we are leaving for camp on Monday!!!!! (I'm going too as their Leader.)
I would be honored if you would join me in this "Kingdom Assignment" for "M".
With a grateful heart,
Leslie
From: Leslie Flemister
As you may know, this past year I was heavily involved in the teenager ministry at our church, Ponte Vedra Presbyterian. I became a "Salt Life" leader of 6 girls with whom I quickly bonded and fell in love. They are just your normal teenagers struggling through issues our generation could not even imagine....extreme body self-image, drugs, sex, drinking, constant connection with technology devices, sexting, etc. During our time together, they slowly opened up and shared their life as I did with them. They are just like sponges and I can tell you...you want them soaking up the right stuff!!!!
One girl in particular, "M"., touched my heart and soul. Her mom is really not in the picture or involved in her life and she lives with her father and brother in a rented house in Ponte Vedra. She's a lovely girl with long, blond hair and infectious smile. We quickly connected. So, when it came time earlier this year to sign up for the yearly youth camp, I was excited to spend more time with her and the other girls as this was the high school camp they would be attending since they are rising 9th graders.
As you can imagine, the economic situation has made it very difficult for many to attend, including "M". She said "there is no way my Dad could afford it." I respected her maturity in dealing with this disappointment and did not press the issue. However, a few weeks ago, at our church's 20 year anniversary celebration, we had a guest pastor, Denny Bellesi, from California who asked for 50 volunteers to come forward. Both Bill and I left our seats and joined the other 48 people. Mr. Bellesi then proceeded to hand us each a crisp $100 bill! We were stunned to say the least...as was the congregation!
He quickly explained that:
#1) this was not our money but God's;
#2) we were trusted to invest the money in a way that would extend God's kingdom; and
#3) to report to our congregation in 90 days how the money was used.
I was so excited about this adventure, and began to pray about how God could use this $100 through me. I heard nothing....days and weeks have gone by.....and now, I know in my heart, I am to use this $100 as the seed money to send "M" to camp. We only need $300.00 more as the total is $400 for the week. I am asking you all to join me in making a difference in this young girl's life by giving her a week I'm sure she'll never forget and one that can have an eternal significance. No contribution is too small....$25, $50...whatever you can afford at this time. I know times are hard for everyone right now...including us! Bill and I would sponsor the whole thing, but I think with the timing of the Kingdom Assignment and this camp...it's beyond coincidence....and isn't it neat if we could join together as a group and be used in such a mighty way!!!!
I know there are alot of wonderful charities and causes out there much more serious and heart-breaking than sending a child to church camp; however, you have an opportunity to make a true difference in "M's" life. She will not only be with her other friends and trusted leaders, but hear the truth of God's love and purpose for her life...which is exactly what these teenagers need....a sense of purpose and destiny...including just being loved and accepted...and having strong, female role-models.
She does not know I am writing this, as she would be too embarrassed. I am planning on saying that the Kingdom Assignment is sponsoring her to go and including your name, if you wish. Or you may wish to remain anonymous. I am only sending it to a few, trusted friends right here in Ponte Vedra and Atlanta. I trust God will make this happen one way or another....if you could just reply back to me and let me know if you're interested, or need more information, I would appreciate it. I don't even have to have the money, just the pledged amount! It is somewhat time-sensitive however....we are leaving for camp on Monday!!!!! (I'm going too as their Leader.)
I would be honored if you would join me in this "Kingdom Assignment" for "M".
With a grateful heart,
Leslie
From: Leslie Flemister
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