Swensen Family

Several years ago I had organized a monthly prayer luncheon for local women in full-time ministry. It's purpose: to create unity by means of building relationships with each other. It went strong for a year and then Katelyn was born and it did not continue on after that. Now, five years later, with the help of another ministry wife, I have hope that such monthly meetings may become reality once again. We had a delightful luncheon yesterday, where some ladies met for the first time and others got to know each other better. We discovered common interests in hobbies and who enjoys activities that another one can't stand.

We are all wired/gifted so differently and because of this, we can support each other and work effectively as a team. Praise God for diversity among His body of servants.

The ministry organizations represented were MARC, Samaritan's Purse, Arctic Barnabas Ministries, and SOAR International. Please pray that the Lord will use these times of fellowship to unify us and strengthen us as we work together to serve the people and ministries in Alaska and Russia.

On Monday, Jeremiah got to go on a day flight with Mark. Unfortunately no pictures were taken. They flew to Tuluksak, Manakotak, Dillingham, back to Tuluksak, and then home to Soldotna. The flight was to take people home from a Moravian Church of Alaska Singsporation. About a year ago we received an email telling us what a difference these Singsporations make in the lives of those that attend.

After coming home from the singspiration, parents and some community members have noticed a change in some of the youth. A grandmother said her granddaughter has been listening to gospel songs and her attitute has improved. Another parent mentioned that her daughter helped out around the house and she has noticed a change in her behavior.

There are youth that have given themselves to Christ in the past few days. On Friday, Eric called wanting Larry to talk to a student that was in his office. Apparently, he was scared of death and hell. So, over the phone, Larry led the student to Christ.

Atmautluak had their first youth service yesterday. The pastor told one of the coordinators that they should have more services like that. Then, I had a call from an elderly woman this morning that she had a dream about having a youth service outside. I guess she had thoroughly enjoyed the singing and the message last night.

After coming home from church, a teenager called saying she wanted to accept Jesus as her personal Savior. Her mom had talked to her and wanted Larry to share the plan of Salvation with her over the phone. God is so good.

It is thrilling to receive testimonies like this. What a priveledge it is to be a part of the work God is doing in Alaska.