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A note from Todd The Work Behind | ||
Dear Friend, This past week, three young men joined us in Taipei for our second annual church planter assessment. We spent time getting to know their families, experiences, and hopes for ministry. Those conversations matter as much as the assessment itself. I always say the most important part of planting a church is the person. Why? We need pastors whose own lives are being shaped and changed by the Gospel. That's especially important as they prepare to serve a generation growing up between traditional folk religion and a changing, postmodern culture. Why This MattersThis week, our teams are visiting four university campuses, with 21 classes and more than 800 students on the schedule. We keep coming back to the same longings in our conversations: security, acceptance, and freedom. Only the Gospel fully answers those longings. It's going to take pastors whose lives have been transformed by the Gospel to help this generation of Taiwanese young people know Christ. And I have good news for you. Over the next month, we'll follow up with two of the three candidates and invite them to partner with us in preparing to plant a church. Together with Franz and Ming, we want to create a community where these pastors can care for and encourage one another. God is using your faithful monthly and year-end giving to make this preparation possible. When we talk with a man and his family about church planting, one of their first questions is how they'll support their family. Your partnership helps us provide steady support as they prepare for the work. Thank you for being part of that. Family UpdatesIn September, Crista and I were able to spend time with all three of our children and our grandson. I'm so proud of our kids. The time together helped me understand more of their lives and how Crista and I can encourage them, support them, and pray for them in this season of their lives. Katelyn is still in the Austin area working for a rehab hospital as a case manager. She recently got some accolades from her supervisor and a significant raise. Ashlyn started her new job teaching middle school this fall and has done a great job managing her family and school. Her students have already called her their favorite teacher. Andrew got a full time job offer this summer and has started working full time while finishing school, and his recent film, Black Ledger, was chosen as a finalist in a nation wide film contest. I encourage you to watch it here. | ||
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Thank you for your friendship. I'm grateful to be sent and supported by the best team. Todd & Crista Blackhurst Mission Taiwan | ||
MISSION TAIWAN |
