Nearly three years in Wales!
We’re approaching our third anniversary in Wales (May 31st) and I just wanted to thank those who have prayed for our ministry among the wonderful people of Wales. They have been so gracious, welcoming us in every way possible and endearing themselves to our hearts and minds.
Special thanks to those who have financially supported Grace Church Planting Ministries. You know who you are and we give praise to God for being our partners in ministry, enabling us to work alongside other evangelicals and encourage them in the work of evangelism and starting new congregations. It seems that new doors of service are continually opening and I believe our most fruitful days are yet ahead of us!
A lot has happened in our family over the past three years, including some really tough times. Sheri and I both lost our mothers within six months of each other. A year after our arrival, Sheri’s mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Thankfully, she lived several weeks and Sheri was able to spend precious (but few) days with her in Omaha, Nebraska. When I said “Good-bye” to my parents in May 2004, I never dreamed it would be the last time I would see my mother in a conscious state. When the news reached me that she had suddenly contracted spinal meningitis and slipped into a coma, I quickly returned to Birmingham, Alabama, with hopes that she would recover. But she didn’t and I conducted her funeral only a few weeks before my parent’s 52nd anniversary.
But the good things of God’s grace have far outweighed the trials and heartaches. Our only son now has a wonderful Christian wife (born near London) and they live in Sheffield, England, about three hours away; and our youngest daughter is now engaged to a young Welshman who loves the Lord, looking to an October 2008 wedding date. We have also welcomed two more grandchildren into the family and, even though they live in Arkansas, it’s a real thrill when we get to see them, talk to them by phone, and enjoy new pictures on Flickr.
Please continue to pray for us! We love serving the Lord here in Wales and it would be great to hear from you. Better yet, come visit us! It would be great to show you around the valleys of South Wales and introduce you to our Welsh friends!
Bill,
Praying for many more fruitful years in the land of “Revivals”! May God rend the heavens once more and do it again! It may shake up the religious crowd a bit, but God tends to do that when He pays nations and peoples a visit!
Blessings upon you all!
Randy
Congratulations brother! I trust that the Lord will continue to use you in your place of service.
Completely off topic, but I feel you are the one to ask. Can I get your opinion, if you have one, about the book, The Ecclesiastical History of the English People, by Bede. We will be studying the Middle Ages and this is on our book list. And since you are in Wales, I’m dubbing you an expert.
Please email your reply, if you have the time.
May God continue to richly bless you as you faithfully minister to those whom he has called you.
God bless you Bill. It thrills me to see you so happy in the Lord! May God continue to be glorified as you abide in Him and bear much fruit, so proving to be His disciple. Isn’t it great that he expects us and prepares us to bear MUCH FRUIT… and then promises that our fruit WILL REMAIN! What encouragement for you and for all of us as we labor together in His vineyard!
So thankful for you and your mentoring and friendship,
Tom