Greetings Friends,
I hope you are doing great! Each month we write this newsletter to let everyone know what is happening with us and the ministry here in Australia. Its always a great opportunity to personally recap what the Lord has done, is doing, what we have planned for the next month, or what is happening with our family. I would like to let you know that we are so thankful for your interest and support in the work here. (photo below; Snday service)
Some Recent Struggles
Over the past month we have been battling some sickness and bouts of discouragement. I will take sickness over discouragement any day. It seems that discouragement can not only wipe you out physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well. It can at times take the wind out of the sails so to speak. Maybe you have experienced this in the past or are experiencing it right now. Just remember that God is our refuge, our strength, our stronghold, and we can do nothing apart from Him. This is such an encouragement if we take hold of it and own it. God is ready to use us to our full potential if we would only let go of our insecurities, our pride, our fear and our doubt. Live life to its fullest and do everything as if you were doing it unto the Lord. When we take on this attitude, it changes our perspective, our outlook when difficulty comes; it allows us to overcome those bouts of discouragement that can hinder the work of God. (photo below; Kids Church – memory verses)
The Soccer Game
Earlier this month, I had the privilege of going to the Australia vs. Argentina soccer game. I’ve never been to an international sporting event, and the patriotism and the excitement was amazing. It was even more special because I got to take my 5 year old son Joshua with me. It was boy’s night out. The atmosphere was spectacular. There was excitement in the air, from our train ride to the venue in the city and even the people outside the stadium. Needless to say, it was a thrilling experience. Just imagine what heaven is going to be like with all the people from all over the world worshipping Jesus with such excitement and enthusiasm. (photo below; youth group preparing for Kids Church skit)
Team Meetings
This month I’ve started team meetings with all the ministry and leadership teams at the church. The purpose of this is to continue to communicate the vision, to equip and train, to evaluate, and to plan and prepare ahead for the next month of ministry. It will be a time of prayer, team building, and a way to strengthen the unity between the members. We are looking forward to progressing and achieving the goals and missions the Lord has for our church. (photo below; Picture of the new building that we should be in by the end of the month)
Prayer Points
Pray for health, provision, and wisdom for our family.
Pray that I would be the best pastor and teacher that I can possibly be.
Pray for revival, for an out-pouring of the Spirit of God on this place.
We need provision for a sound system. (need about $4000).
Pray for the Lord to bless and protect the church
Pray for Jennifer Bailey – heading back to the states to complete the visa application process, pray for rest and refreshment, provision, and for the approval of the visa.
We Praise and thank God for your prayers and your support
It is so humbling being on this end of the mission field, where we are in a place of just trusting God to meet our needs. We do love and miss each of you.
Until next time, may the Lord radically & outrageously bless you!
Until the Whole World Hears,
Pastor Andrew Russell
Andrew, Niki, Joshua, and Christian
Contact info:
3 Walton Court
Narre Warren,
VIC, 3805 Australia
011-61-3-9796-7771 = home #
011-61-4-3456-2543 = cell #
Email address: ccma@calvarychapel. com Or Andrew@calvarymelbourne.com.au
