I want to apologize for not updating with a new blog this week, but life has been EXTRA busy as we have had back-to-back conferences, Bible studies and the regular chaos we call work. :)
So, in order to have something new for you to read, I am re-posting our latest newsletter so you can get a taste of what we've been up to.
Enjoy!
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What's Happening?
We've started the new year off in a mad dash!
The old year left us and the new year came in with a calendar already filling up!
Though January was slow, February is busy, busy. Rick and I just got back from a great weekend event in Viera, Florida
- a First Responder Marriage Conference with 180 in attendance, several
of which indicated they wanted to follow Christ. Many also shared how
God really challenged them in the area of marriage. Praise God!
The extra days we spent in the Sunshine State were busy touring the
Brevard County Sheriff's Department, taking in the Police Museum and
networking with several other couples who also have ministries to first
responders.
I have to admit, this trip was way too short as we so enjoyed the warm
weather and beautiful scenery. But alas, all good things must come to
an end and so it is back to business and onward ho.
After a few days of regrouping, we leave this Friday for Springfield, Missouri,
where we will be a part of a Law Enforcement Marriage Event. Please
keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we minister to those who will be
attending.
Springfield P.D. recently had an officer shot in the line of duty, so
hearts are hopefully tender and ready to hear what God has to say.
Our prayer is that healing can now begin.
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At the end of March we will be heading down to Paducah, Kentucky for
an Appreciation Day for all first responders. We will be on hand to
offer peer support, marriage support, or just a listening ear to anyone
in attendance. We are hoping to make some great contacts while we are
there and spread the love of Jesus to these men and women who serve our
communities every day.
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First Responder Bible Studies
In the midst of all the traveling and ministry, Rick and I have also been leading several first responder Bible studies.
Rick began a local study for all first responders and their spouses on
Tuesday evenings at our church. Average attendance has been around 8-10
folks, which we consider a good start with hopes of it growing. Topics
have ranged from anywhere from worry to adultery. Everyone seems to
really be enjoying our time together digging into the Word.
I have been leading an on line study through the book of John with over
150 people following the power points/questions and 6-8 joining the live
sessions.
I'm also currently writing a study each week for a group of 20 police wives in Tennessee.
So, as you can see, we are very busy!
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How Can You Pray For Us?
I'm glad you asked! Below is a list of needs that we have and ask that you join us in seeking God's will and timing.
- Pray that God will bring people who can help with technical things such as production of our seminars to DVD, website support and enhancement, etc.
- Pray
that God will bring people to come alongside us to partner
financially. We cannot continue this ministry without funds to support
all the travel and daily costs that come with it.
- Pray that God will provide the means for us to attend National Police Week this year in Washington DC.
- Pray that God will make a way for us to do this ministry full-time, as the immediate need is there.
- Pray for us as we will be going through Chaplaincy training in April.
- Pray for our first responder Bible studies, both physical and on line.
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In His Service,
Rick & Kristi - Badge of Hope
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I absolutely will be praying for y'all. Wife of a PD Sgt and I am also a dispatcher. Would love more info on some of these events you are attending...that First Responder Marriage Conference sounds like something we probably would have enjoyed. Maybe we can hook up on Facebook or something???
ReplyDeleteDawn
Thanks Dawn for the prayers! We definitely need to hook up. Find me on FB and we will see when we can get you guys to one of our conferences. :)
ReplyDelete