Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Thank you Emerywood Baptist Church!

Mere words don't seem to convey our heartfelt thanks to the staff and congregation of Emerywood Baptist Church. During this off-field assignment time they agreed to allow Ralph to serve his seminary required internship under their pastor, Bob Ferguson. However, it was much, much more than that. Emerywood provided for us physically with a place to live and a car to drive. They provided for us spiritually and emotionally by welcoming us into their midst warmly and wholeheartedly. We made some good friends and enjoyed a lot of good fellowship. We are very grateful for all the love and support that was given to us. Thank you Emerywood!

Sunday, June 14, 2009

Until We Met Again... Craigs Complete Assignment

Tomorrow, June 15th, Wes and Susan Craig, serving as Global Service Corps workers to Project Ruth in Bucharest, Romania, board the plane marking an end to their three years of ministry there. Susan and Wes jumped boldly into their assignment despite a new language, different culture, and without knowing anyone there. They embraced all that was new and different, forging new friendships, and making a difference among those around them. Relationship building is key to a good ministry and the Craigs were excellent at it, leaving behind many sad friends as they say good-bye.
Wes and Susan strengthened the ministry partnership CBF has with Project Ruth through increasing and improving communication with other partners. They expanded the networks throughout the USA and among the Romanian Romany. They facilitated great experiences for volunteers coming to work among the neglected. The Craigs eagerly grasped new opportunities.
Through Susan's administrative skills the office of Project Ruth was strengthened and organized. Wes stepped in to network and recruit teachers and students for the Gypsy Smith Leadership Training School. He followed up to encourage the students in the new knowledge they had obtained. It is not possible to list all the wonderful things they did while serving in Bucharest.
For the CBF Gypsy Team they were a breath of fresh air. Their youthful enthusiasm added to our discussion and strategy sessions. To say nothing of the late night card games! We all enjoyed their easy-going personalities and curiosity to explore new places. Wes and Susan will be greatly missed by our team.
As Wes and Susan make their way to Texas, closing this chapter in their lives and opening the next, please join us in praying that they will see clearly the next step God has for them. Ask Him to provide employment opportunities and meet their daily needs. Offer praise for their willingness to serve Him and the outstanding job they did.
The Craigs are eager and willing to share their stories of life at Project Ruth. Please contact them to come and be with your church, SS class, missions group, or anyone else interested in Romany ministry.
Wes and Susan, thank you for serving among the unreached of the world.
Additional Note: Ralph and I have personally enjoyed our friendship with Wes and Susan. We shared holidays and team meetings with them. We enjoyed visits to their home. They are fun and delightful to be around. It has been educational to hear the insights of another generation, especially learning about blogs, ipods, and Starbucks. We will miss them greatly.