Missionary Training Center Graduating Class of 2009

Yesterday was the graduation ceremony for the Missionary Training Center here in Canada. We had 17 graduates. Some have already taken off for their home areas and in the next couple of weeks the rest of our graduates will be heading out. These are some very dear people who love the Lord and are looking to serve the Lord on the mission field. Please be praying for them as they raise support, work through all the needed paperwork, get needed shots, and work through many other things in preparation for life on the mission field. Congratulations Class of 2009 on finishing strong. We are praying for you and are excited for all that God has in store for you.

Christmas Vacation

Yesterday was the last day of classes for the year. We ended our classes with a time of sharing and of prayer. Then we enjoyed some pizza together. (YUM!) Many of our students have already taken off for their Christmas vacation. Please pray for them as there will be many miles traveled in the next couple of days. We are happy that so many of them are able to spend time with their families and home churches. Please pray, however, for the families that are not able to make it home to be with their families, that they would have a good refreshing break here on the campus.

Party Time

Last night we had our Training Center Christmas party. In years past we have had one big get together but this year we decided to do something a little different. There were four staff homes open for the Christmas party. All of our students and the staff were divided up into one of the four homes. After connecting with everyone at that house the students were able to hop over to another house for more food and fellowship. Each home had snacks available to munch on. At our place we played a couple of games throughout the evening. We enjoyed a great time with everyone who popped in.

No Talent Night 2008

Tonight was the night we were all waiting for; the "No Talent Night". We were not disappointed; the evening was everything we hoped it would be. The evening started out with some children who sang, played the piano, and recited Bible verses. Then we moved on to watch some really funny skits and some great home made videos. It was a such a fun filled evening. A special thanks for everyone who participated to make the evening a success.

Long Live the Grill

Friday night all the staff and student men in the training had a bonding time around the grill. This social was planned a couple of weeks ago but due to rainy weather it was postponed until Friday night. The men had a good time hanging out together around the bbq . There were also some lawn games and when darkness fell there was a movie on the big screen. From what I hear a good time was had by all.

No Talent Night Commercial (In the Jungle)

Just when you thought you had seen everything, you realize you haven't! Next Friday we as a training are having a "No Talent Night". There have been several people making little commercials trying to advertise for the "No Talent Night". This is what Vern and I came up with. Our daughter was our inspiration and coach.

40th Anniversary Open house

Many prayers were answered when we woke up to some gorgeous weather for the big day. Many, many people put in countless hours working to prepare for this day. As a Mission we were celebrating 40 years of training missionaries to reach tribal people. Today there were also many, many people working to make the day run smoothly, GREAT JOB EVERYONE! There were many displays and events around the campus for all of our visitors. We want to say thank-you to all of YOU throughout Canada that have had a part in reaching tribal people with the gospel through New Tribes Mission of Canada. Some of you have physically helped here on building projects. Many of you have supported and prayed for the work of New Tribes Mission of Canada. And many of you are having an active part in supporting, praying for, and encouraging a missionary with New Tribes Mission of Canada. Thank-you for being part of the team reaching tribal people with the gospel. I wish you could have joined us to celebrate all that God has done and is doing.

Getting To Know You

Last night all the first year student and staff ladies got together for a fun and relaxing evening. Kathy did a great job in making her basement very warm and inviting. We played several fun games where we got to learn interesting tidbits of each other. There was a wonderful spread of fruits, veggies, and goodies for us to enjoy. It was an enjoyable evening and we are looking forward to many more special times together.

Classes Begin

Yesterday was the official start to the first semester here at the Mission Training Center. We have a great bunch of students who are very excited about all that the Lord has for them here during their training. We have 17 students who have returned for their second year of training and 21 who have just started. Praise the Lord for these willing folks who desire to serve the Lord as missionaries.

Unpacking

This week has been an exciting week for us here at the training center. During this week 23 new students will be moving onto the campus to start classes on Monday morning. We are enjoying having them in our home and getting to know them. It is always so neat to hear how God worked in their lives to bring them here. Please be praying for our new students as they arrive, unpack, and settle into life here.

The Breakfast of Champions

No we were not eating our "Wheaties" for anyone who even remembers what those are, but yesterday all the first year staff and students went out for breakfast. Classes are winding down and it was a good time to enjoy each others' company. We have a great group of students who are always a joy to spend time with.