Since House of Hope Belfast is still in the process of being established, I couldn’t have a missionary visa issued through House of Hope yet. After seeking the Lord in prayer and wise counsel I have decided to volunteer with Youth for Christ and my local church so I can be granted a 1-year missionary visa. I will help Youth for Christ with administration work. In my church I will help the Youth pastor with facilitating youth cell group, 20s and 30s group, church magazine, website developement, etc.
Blessings
Even though the past two weeks have been stressful and unpredictable, I am able to reflect and see God’s hand in everything. Even the things taken for granted - like the weather. The weather here is often compared to Seattle weather, overcast skies and daily rain. However, it has yet to rain during the day since my arrival! Honestly, I don’t really mind the weather here, because it makes me appreciate the sun so much more when it makes its’ appearance. And if it wasn’t for the rain there wouldn’t be the Irish green rolling hills!
*My new volunteer opportunities will help get the word out about House of Hope. Youth for Christ has a strong presence in Northern Ireland, so it will be great to have their support and encouragement. My local church family are keen for me to get involved with the church’s ministries. Perhaps it will be through one of these ministries that the House of Hope’s Core foundation team will be formed.
*Even before leaving the States a Belfast friend had arranged for me to test drive a colleague’s car. The car is in great condition and the seller has graciously been holding the car for the past week until I receive adequate financial support to cover the insurance.
Car insurance is more expensive in the UK than in the States. I have been quoted about $2,500/annually. If you feel the Lord leading you to give toward this fund, I would be grateful. Listed below I have included the ways to financially support my ministry.
The public transportation is rather good here if you are commuting in and out of the city center, but my focus is mostly in smaller communities on the outskirts of Belfast. Without my own means of transportation it is difficult getting from place to place. The past two weeks I have been fortunate to have my friends help me when they can with transportation so I don’t have to spend money on taxis.
*A friend’s parents are letting me rent a house they own for much less than the local going rate. They are giving the remainder of the rental price as contribution to the ministry. I couldn’t ask for better landlords! They have been such a huge blessing and encouragement. My current financial need for rent/house maintenance is $750/monthly.
Specific Prayer Points
*That God would continue to grant me wisdom, discernment, energy, and encouragement
*The work with my local church and Youth for Christ starting next week
*House of Hope’s development and charity status
*Monthly Financial needs - rent, visa expenses, car insurance, fuel, medical, living expense, House of Hope’s fund
*Car - that I would be able to purchase the car this week with the insurance in place so I can start ministry at the weekend.
Things haven’t been going quite as planned but I remain faithful to God’s promises. I have learned to patiently wait for His leading even if it’s not in my exact and convenient timing. His plans are much greater than my own!
I ask you for support, in any and every way you feel the Lord leading you to give it. Prayer, advice, encouragement, and/or finances.
I will be returning to Minnesota in September to wait for my missionary visa to be issued. During this time I will be available for presentations on the life and ministry happening throughout in Northern Ireland in the past and today. I would love to provide clarity to answer any of your queries. Please do contact me!
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