Tuesday, December 13, 2016

Giddy Up Westy!!! 70%

We have had several one-time donations to our Outfit and Passage account, which is what gets us to Mexico. As you can see, Westy (our burro in the pic),  is journeying towards the finish line!

If you are considering a year-end gift, we would be so grateful and excited to see Westy "Giddy UP" to the finish line!

If you would consider a recurring donation, that will help our monthly account that keeps us in Mexico.

Wednesday, December 7, 2016

Barbecue for the Journey

We are so thankful for our sending church, Westerly Hills Baptist, and the many friends God has brought alongside us through the years.  One of those friends, Lee Blackwelder, cooks award-winning barbecue and is hosting a barbecue fundraiser for our Outfit & Passage requirement (what gets us to Mexico).  Today (Dec. 7) is the last day to pre-order your barbecue!  Shoot us an e-mail at powleyjourney@abwe.cc or give David a call at 803-470-1971 to place your order.

Friday, Dec. 9 and Saturday, Dec. 10
10:30am-
$8.00/plate: bbq, slaw, baked beans, roll.
(We will deliver orders of 15 or more plates)
$10.00/pound
Westerly Hills Baptist Church
232 S. Sutton Road
Fort Mill, SC 

Wednesday, September 28, 2016

Pressing On

For those praying for us, I wanted to give an update/praise report on my assignments since David has already completed all of his:

  • Last summer, I started two courses then set them aside while I worked full time, focused on partnership development, and then traveled/completed training this past summer.  Today, I completed the written requirements for those two courses; I have one more reading assignment to complete.
  • I received confirmation of my final grade for my other course I completed this week; so I only have one more course to go.
  • I am well on my way to finishing the last required book.
Whenever God chooses to provide what we need to send us on to language school, I don't want my lack of diligence holding us back.  So, I appreciate the prayers and encouragement to help me find the time and focus to complete my assignments.  I see the light at the end of the tunnel!  I can't wait to see what He has planned to get us to the field. :-)

We have also been visiting churches in our area so the pastors we've contacted via phone can "put a face with the name."  Some pastors have given us the opportunity to share on the spot; others have set dates for a later time to share; and others have called on the church to pray over us.  It's been a blessing to see so many churches in our area have a passion for the Lord.  Ethan and Emily are doing well as they are visiting churches; they enjoy being at our church for each week for the mid-week children's ministries.  We are very grateful to those who have shared our information with others.  If you know of a church, small group, or individual that may be interested in missions to Mexico, we would love to share our ministry with them.

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

When are you going to Mexico?

A very popular question is "When are you going to Mexico?" Well, when God prepares us is the most accurate answer. Monthly financial supporters is just one way to invest in missions to Mexico. We are praying for the following:
2 partners @ $250/month
12 partners @ $100/month
11 partners @ $50/month
13 partners @ $25/month
12 partners @ $10/month
If you would like more information on how to partner with us we would love to share that with you. Give us a call at 803-470-1971.  Or click on this link.

Thursday, September 8, 2016

Shouldn't have to beg


Twice this week I have had a Pastor tell me we shouldn't have to "beg" for money to go to the mission field.  I understand what they mean; but if I ever had to beg for something, I think I would just do without.  

"God has obligated Himself to provide for you what He has called you to do" is a statement we were told during our partnership development training.  God has called us to go to Mexico and what a privilege it is to go.  Because He called us, He is the one who will provide.  We cannot do it all by ourselves, and Scripture gives different examples of partnerships--partnerships through prayer, team building and finances.  Paul says in Philippians 4:17, "Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account."  Whoever partners with us, and however they partner, will receive treasures in Heaven for what God accomplishes in Mexico.  

We enjoy sharing with many different individuals, families, Sunday school classes, small groups and churches.  It's our responsibility to share; it's God's responsibility to provide.  I stand amazed at how God has provided us with so many prayer partners.  He has provided team builders through those who have passed along our information or invited us to share in small groups.  He currently has provided 64 financial partners--individuals, small groups and  churches--who have committed to a monthly financial partnership from $10 - $400.  He has blessed us tremendously.  

I'll never beg someone to join us in partnership, but I will ask to share an opportunity to invest in God's kingdom work.  

Tuesday, August 2, 2016

Making Every Nation a Sending Nation


Essential Mission Components Training


Essential Mission Components training last week at ABWE headquarters in PA was a wonderful time of learning with fellow pre-field missionaries and veteran missionaries who poured into our lives every day.  We had a missionary couple from Spain who serve as church planters there who learned a lot about Mexico and helped us understand the basic concepts of church planting.  A few concepts that stuck out to us were:

  • Pray: before, during, after, always.  Pray. "Prayer is as essential to our life as breathing."
  • Learn: we cannot replicate what we know, but we must learn and adapt to the culture to which God sends us.
  • Disciple:  disciple others to disciples others, to reproduce reproducers. 
  • Send: the mission from the beginning is to send others out to reach their world for Christ. It is not just about planting a church, but sending missionaries from every nation to reach every nation.

STAMP (Students in Training and Missionary Preparation)
ABWE also helps prepare the children in cross cultural training.  Emily was in the nursery, but Ethan had a day camp in which the children learned daily concepts related to new cultures.    Ethan met other MKs from all over the world, some who have already been on the field with their parents and others who are just starting out like us.  Throughout the fun activities and lessons, one essential concept was stressed:  Although everything in their life may be changing, two things will remain constant--Jesus and their family.  The children were also challenged with the concept that they weren't Missionary Kids (MKs), but to think of themselves instead as Kid Missionaries (KMs).  They had just as much a part of missions as their parents.  We are so thankful for the heart Pastor Jim and ABWE has to minister to our children.



EMC Charge:
At the end of the week, we were challenged to make every nation a sending nation.  As we go to the field, we must connect with people, show them the love of Christ, challenge them to follow Him, then disciple them to reach others.  Every nation can reach every nation with the gospel of Christ.  We were presented with a baton to pass on to someone on the field God brings into our lives who "catches the vision" to reach nations.  May we actively "live out" the Gospel:  "Evangelism is our life, not our job."  Ethan was also presented with a certificate of completing cross-cultural training as an Kid Ambassador of Jesus Christ, and gave us a gift for our family--a bundle of sticks representing the fact that we will be stronger together as we minister together as a family.  We look forward to the next leg of this journey, patiently wait on God's timing to get us to the field, and press on to serve Him in the waiting.







Thursday, July 21, 2016

Survey Trip to Mexico City, July 2016

We had the awesome privilege to visit Mexico City and the team currently serving there.  We hope you enjoy the information shared, and the albums you can view for more pictures of what we were able to do and see.  God is on the move in Mexico!

Ministry:
Kurt and Bethany serve in Queretaro, about 2 hours outside of Mexico City in a city of 2 million people.  They hold a soccer club where they teach children soccer skills and about the love of Jesus, an in-home Bible study, and Bible clubs in local parks.  They are currently having their VBS in two of the parks in the area.  One couple who brings their child every week to hear the Bible stories intently listens as Bethany shares the Gospel.  Even when their son is off playing, they are plugged in to what God is teaching them.  Kurt and Bethany are in the beginning stages of church planting in Queretaro.

Antonio and Diana serve right outside of Mexico City.  They are at the stage of church planting in which the congregation is ready to be led by nationals.  Antonio has discipled the deacons so that each deacon oversees a certain area of ministry in the church and all of them write their own sermons based on the Scripture being taught.  Antonio teaches a Bible school twice a week for the deacons and any church leader in the area.  This church is also starting two church plants in the hometown of some of the members. A former witch doctor came to know Christ after Antonio and Diana continually ministered to his children and wife, even after intense intimidation.  He accepted Christ as his Savior and is now actively involved in the church plant in his hometown, with the help of the Navarettes.

Darlene serves in Mexico City.  Although she is involved in children and youth ministries in area churches, she spends much of her time with one-on-one discipleship of women in her community.  We were able to attend Bible study and youth group with her while visiting. We met the current interim pastor of her church--one of the sweetest men ever!  He desires to one day start a church in his hometown, but it is a town very closed to the Gospel.  We are praying for Darlene's church as they seek their next pastor and for Pastor Chris as he seeks God's next step for him.

You can see pictures of the ministries by visiting the ministry album.  

Religion:
Catholicism in Mexico is much different than in the United States, in many ways.  It is definitely a major part of their life, with Mary being the central focus.  Their cathedrals are extravagant, originally having a separate one for those of the Aztec and Mayan descent.  At the entrance of every neighborhood, there is a small "house" that contains a statue of May protecting their homes and to which they can give alms.  We saw someone who was crawling on her knees from the road to the altar of the Basilica for penance.  Something interesting we learned--the original Basilica is sinking (as in all of Mexico City), so they built a new, more contemporary one...right beside it!

You can see pictures of the cathedrals and a service taking place in the Basilica while we were there by visiting the Religion album.   

Life and Times with the Team:
We loved visiting Mexico City.  The schedule is much different from ours:  late morning breakfast, late afternoon lunch (the main meal of the day), then a light late snack.  Melanie was more conservative in her adventures in food, but David tried just about anything.  He ate all the condiments on the pizza, sesos (cow brains) quesadillas, cow hoof quesadilla, and several fruits.  We enjoyed seeing the local markets, neighborhood squares (where everyone hangs out every Sunday afternoon), and  landmarks.  David graduated from Word of Life, New York, so he was thrilled when we got to visit Word of Life Mexico.  We spent the morning visiting the campus, then we got to enjoy a visit with WOL local church missionaries for lunch. We enjoyed a day with most of the team at the Pyramids right outside of Mexico City as well.  Originally, the only ones allowed to climb the pyramids were the priests and those being sacrificed--it was a somber reminder of the past as we climbed the long, and steep, trek.  And, the kids were a little spoiled by the missionaries, enjoying time with TJ and Alyssa babysitting them, beating Darlene at the games in the arcade, and being challenged in chess by Kurt.

We had a great time with our team. You can see many of the pictures with them and our adventures in the area by visiting our Life album.



Thursday, July 7, 2016

Another Week in Mexico

We are over halfway through week two here in Mexico.  We have one more week to go.  We wanted to share more of our experience with you.  Check out some pictures giving you insight into ministry in Mexico.  This week, we are with the Navarrete family (Antonio, Diana, TJ and Alyssa).  We will also be with Darlene throughout the weekend, then end our time back with the Navarretes next week.

Ministry
The park ministry:  Kurt and Bethany Gomez meet every Thursday afternoon in the park to teach the Roots of Faith, a chronological Bible study teaching God's redemptive story of the Bible.

The Bible school: Antonio Navarrete meets with local pastors, deacons, and leaders Tuesday and Thursday nights.


Church in Mexico City:  The pastor and each deacon develops an outline of the sermon series being studied each week. After the service, they get together to discuss the sermon.  Antonio gives insight as they discuss.  At the end of the series, each man has a notebook full of sermons based on that book of the Bible.







We hope you enjoyed seeing a few pics of the ministries God is building here in Mexico City and the surrounding areas.  We were also able to visit the original cathedral here in the city where we are staying; it gave us insight into the Catholic religion here in Mexico.  Tomorrow and Saturday, we will be going to Bible study and youth group with Darlene.  Then Sunday, we will back at the church in Mexico City with the Navarretes.  We will update as we can.  We appreciate your prayers and look forward to seeing what God is doing in the other ministries throughout the weekend.




Saturday, July 2, 2016

"Hola" from Mexico!

The past few days, we have spent with the Gomez family: Kurt, Bethany, and their children (Tyler, Olivia, and Ezra).  We have enjoyed some fabulous Mexican food (which happens to be our favorite!) and wonderful time of ministry.  Instead of a long post, we thought we would share our journey with you through pictures.

Thursday Night Bible Study
We both were able to share our testimonies.
Bible Study Group Picture.
 Friday's Ministry Happenings.

Dave and Ethan inviting students to the VBS in the park next month.



Soccer Clinic


Ethan improving his soccer skills.

Emily learning a little soccer.


Sharing the Gospel with the kids at the clinic.
 Saturday, we will visit Word of Life Mexico then serve in the park ministry where Kurt and Bethany share God's Word with the children and their families.  Sunday, we will attend church with the Gomez family. Then, Monday, July 4, we will head back to Mexico City to celebrate Independence Day with other missionaries serving there then minister with the rest of our ABWE team.  We will post updates as we can.  We thank you all for your prayers.

Monday, June 6, 2016

Jehovah-Jireh: The Lord will Provide


A couple of months ago, a church member came to us and said the Lord had laid on her heart to plan a church-wide yard sale to help with our ministry...and she obeyed.

A few weeks ago, Melanie and I were sitting at the kitchen table planning a trip to Mexico City.  As questions swirled and decisions needed to be made concerning finances, we anxiously prayed God would provide what we needed.  He began to calm our anxiety and worries, and continually reminded us that this is His ministry for which He will provide.  We bought our tickets (for $1,699) trusting He would provide what we needed.

Two days ago, the yard sale took place.  MANY individuals worked tirelessly to make the yard sale happen.  Through their efforts, and God's provision, we made $1,800.  God, in His sovereignty, had already put into place His plan to provide for our need.  Jehovah-Jireh.  God provides.


Wednesday, May 25, 2016

June 10

A few weeks ago, I was asked by my employer when I would be stepping down as the service manager; I didn't have an answer.  They have been very gracious to work with me and have allowed me to work as long as I am able.  We have made plans on who would take over what responsibilities but had never set a date.  As we met, I felt the Holy Spirit direct me to give June 10 as the last day I would be responsible for the service department; I would be gone two weeks after that date for classes with ABWE.  I didn't understand that date because I have had a goal to work as much and as long as I could, but little did I know God did understand...

As part of our pre-field responsibilities, we must meet our fellow ABWE missionaries serving in Mexico.  Last week, I discussed this survey trip with our team leader in Mexico, which will allow us to visit and serve with three different ABWE missionary families.  After reviewing flight options, the best prices, and available dates, the best time to make the two-week trip is right after the two weeks of classes in June; this would take me away from my current job for a full month.  Honestly, I became very unsettled; this was not part of my plan.  How were we going to pay for the trip?  How can I take this much time off from work?  I asked for prayer from some close friends in ministry and, over the next few days, the Holy Spirit revealed His plan.  He had already put in place a number of things that would take care of everything about which I was worried.

These last few days have stretched and grown my faith.  This is not my plan, but I believe that is because this is not my ministry.  As we are faithful, He promises to be faithful.  June 10 didn't make sense a few weeks ago; now, it's very clear.  His ways are higher.  Isaiah 55:8-9  

Wednesday, May 4, 2016

Pennies for Powleys



We are thankful for our sending church, Westerly Hills Baptist, who has been so supportive as we seek to follow the Lord's leading to Mexico. The women's ministry headed up the Pennies for Powleys campaign that brought in close to $800.00 for our Outfit & Passage (what gets us to Mexico).  They are also planning a church-wide yard sale for Saturday, June 4.  It has been amazing, and humbling, to see how God has laid His ministry on the hearts of His people to provide; we continually watch in awe.

Friday, April 29, 2016

Evangelism Training

We are preparing to lead our church through an evangelism class.  It's very easy to tell others about Jesus when He has changed your life.  All you have to do is tell your story.

What we learn will:
  1. Help us to understand the gospel  
  2. Help unbelievers understand the gospel
  3. Help unbelievers embrace the gospel
  4. Help believers retain the gospel

Monday, April 18, 2016

Time Hop

One year ago today, we had just finished attending ABWE's 24-Hour Demo.  We received a lot of information from ABWE and confirmation from the Lord for us to apply with this mission agency.

It has been an amazing year that the Lord has brought us through.  He keeps amazing us in so many ways.  Today, our verbal monthly financial commitments reached 50%!

It has been an overwhelming year in many different ways, but the blessings from the Lord and the encouragement from so many individuals have filled our spirits to keep pressing forward!
To God Be The Glory!!

Friday, April 8, 2016

O Lord, How Excellent Is Your Name!

The Lord is continually blessing this ministry.  This week God has brought new prayer partners, one time gifts and monthly financial commitments.  Our monthly financial percentage is now at 45%!

To God be the Glory!

Thursday, March 31, 2016

En Route: March Edition is on its way...

En Route: March Edition

We have had some technical difficulties with our printer which has delayed our newsletter, but they went out in the mail today!

We are so encouraged by the number of people investing their prayers, finances and personal encouragement for eternity through the Powley Journey.

Emily helped with a few "stickers" on the envelopes.

Tuesday, March 15, 2016

Sign Up!

We are busy crafting our newsletter for March.  If you would like to receive one, email us your mailing address to powleyjourney@abwe.cc

Tuesday, March 1, 2016

The BIG 4-0


Who knew "40" would be such HOT news?  Not only will Dave turn the BIG 4-0 this year, but we just confirmed that the Powley Journey has reached 40% verbal commitments of our $7,000 monthly requirement!  Will you join us in praying that we receive 50% by the end of May?  By doing so, we can attend the first required training this summer getting us closer to Mexico. God is providing for His ministry!

Tuesday, February 9, 2016

Praise the Lord !!!  We are excited to report our current monthly support level is 32%.  Each week our goal is to meet with three people to share how they could partner with us.  We like to keep track of the progress with this chart.  Each little box equals $25 and each different color represents a different individual, Sunday school class or church that has partnered with us.  We currently have 35 different financial partners and many prayer partners.  We have commitments from $10 a month up to $300 a month.  If you would like to hear more about our ministry and potential ways to partner with us, contact us and we would love to share with you!

Friday, January 15, 2016

We published our first video on the Powley Journey You Tube channel!



Monday, January 4, 2016

Sharing at Sunday School

We were able to spend some time in Pennsylvania this last weekend with David's family.

Sunday we were asked to share our ministry with the Adult Sunday School class at Bressler Bible Church.  It was great to introduce them to the ministry God has for us.

To God be the glory great things He has done!

Friday, January 1, 2016

Powley Journey en Route: Year in Review



What a year!!  2015 was the culmination of 1.5 years of God working in our lives and expanding our hearts to global missions. After spending much time in prayer, seeking godly counsel, and completing an intense interview process, we were commissioned with ABWE.  Since July, we have been diligently pursuing this call to Mexico.  We prayed that God would supply 25% of our monthly financial needs by the end of the year; the week before Christmas, He had supplied 27%.  Just this week, we were blessed with another large gift towards our Outfit and Passage bringing us to 28% of our requirement.  We are continuing to meet with individuals and churches to share the ministry God has called us to do and are praying for Him to supply another 25% by the end of June so we can attend our required seminar in July.  Thank you for continued financial support, prayers, team-building, and encouragement.  We are so thankful for each person God has used to pour into our lives and ministry.  May God bless each of you as you serve Him wherever He has placed you this coming year.


Above is an excerpt taken from our monthly emailed newsletter. If you aren't already receiving it, you can sign up to receive it on the form to the right on this page.