Monday, October 11, 2010

Comings & Goings - Minnesota, Holy Land, Budget in the Millions, Post-prison ministry



October 11, 2010

Burgert's Coming & Going - We are excited to share much with you:

Steve had a safe journey to Minnesota with frequent flyer miles to share time with his parents. It was a great opportunity for him to see how they are doing and for them to see that all is well with Steve. Steve was able to share an update on our mission service at his parents retirement apartment complex as well as at the First Presbyterian Church in Rochester, which is the church of Steve's first 26 years. Thanks to a fellow missionary family, the Byers', who loaned Steve a car to use. We talked about the things we have - they are "God owned - personally operated!" Yes, Steve was able to switch back to driving on the "right" side of the road while in the USA!


We both leave for Israel on October 12, 2010. We are delighted to join ten others from our home church in Loveland, Colorado, First United Methodist Church, including our pastors, Rev. Jane and Rev. Brian Riecke, on this Holy Land Tour of Israel and Egypt. We are looking forward to this investment of personal funds to be an inspiration in our faith journeys and also an opportunity to reflect as we conclude our first full year of missionary service in Kenya and look toward the year to come. Thank you for your prayers for a safe and blessed journey.

Alene has been pleased to assist two men recently released from prison as they have been welcomed back into their communities and look forward to sharing the love of Christ with others. The photo shows Peter (the tallest one) as he literally is building his home. Alene will share more details about the Lord's miraculous design in the lives of these men.

Steve has proposed a budget in the millions....well, millions of Kenya Shillings! The Tenwek Endoscopy Unit budget has been previously included in the Surgery Department budget and this is the first time it is being submitted as a separate budget. Steve has new appreciation for all of those who have developed budgets in the past. We pray for wisdom in future planning and for available funds and for each area of service.

We rejoice as we look back on this first year and look toward the year to come!

Please note: The blog is updated with photos from our August safari.

http://picasaweb.google.com/slburgert

We remember Psalm 121:8 - "The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore."

SHALOM!