eNewsletter » May 2010

Dear Praying Partners,

Having just concluded our Annual Meeting the end of April, there is a lot of good news – and I will get to that. As I write this today, it is a GLORIOUS Spring day in central Pennsylvania; the birds are singing, the grass is growing, etc. More than that, however, souls are being reaped for eternity!

The Gospel Furthering Fellowship (our actual corporate name – or GFF) has a fiscal year from April 1 to March 31. Despite all that went on in the economy last year, we were able to reduce our missionary contribution (what our people need to contribute to the Office to make it run) again for 2010-2011. We constantly strive to run 'leaner' and more efficiently; the Lord willing, we will also finish the mortgage on our Office building in 2 1/2 years. To put the praise where it belongs, obviously the Grace of God has been at work – powerfully. All of our missionaries and managers have contributed as well, particularly on the financial side. And GFF continues to grow, which has helped.

We have been a bit disappointed that we have not seen more of our missionary families these past few months, but most of them are extremely busy. In particular, we were looking forward to the possibility of seeing the families with young children, as they grow so fast (although I betray my age when I say that).

Lord willing, we do not expect to see the Shipe family for too much longer; they should soon be on their way to Tanzania. Continue to pray for them, and for those who will follow (Lord willing)! We also hope to see Peter and Charo Torres going in 2010, along with their daughter Damaris (graduating from high school this year). In addition, we are praying much for Dave and Jane Claar, as they need more support as well.

It would be easy to 'lose faith,' or worry unduly about the economy of the United States. We have not really had much impact from a worsening economy, perhaps because so many of our churches and contributors tend to be conservative both theologically and financially. What we do know is that the future is as bright as the Promises of God, AND “All the promises of God in him (Christ) are yea, and in him Amen …” (2 Cor 1.20). There is never a need to worry; there is always a reason to trust.

By the Grace of God,

Bruce P. Busch
General Director