News headlines for March 21st 2003

(International)–Topping the news, the State Department is warning U-S citizens abroad that they are at greater risk now that military action is ongoing in Iraq. Intervarsity Christian Fellowship’s[1] Scott Bessenecker says they’re readying contingency plans. “In terms of Americans involved, we’re in a wait-and-see mode. The reaction on the part of other Middle Eastern countries has yet to rear its head. So, we’re waiting, looking to the State Department travel advisory system and praying for open doors to remain.” In light of possible retaliatory terrorist actions and anti-American violence, Bessenecker shares: “I think there are three teams I am most concerned with: the Cairo, Egypt team, the Manila, Philippines team and the Izmir, Turkey team. These student teams will be diverted to other locations should reaction in these countries begin pointing at Americans in violent ways.”

(International)–Next, some mission experts are saying they believe combat in Iraq could be a catalyst to war against Christians and Americans in some Muslim countries. In light of the increased risk to ministry, Evangelical Free Church Association’s[2] Ben Sawatsky says they’re keeping in contact with their workers. “I think the hardest thing to deal with is the fear factor. We are counseling from God’s Word, and we are spending a lot of time in prayer for our staff that they will indeed, see the opportunities and meet them with boldness and courage.” While keeping vigil and preparing their response to the danger potential, Sawatsky reports their teams remain stalwart in their mission. “Pray that we’ll be able to grasp the opportunities that will come our way. They certainly did; they did after 9-11, and they’re doing so now, as well. So, pray that we will have eyes to see the opportunities and that we’ll respond in the power of the Holy Spirit.”

(Jordan)– Southern Baptist[3] workers in Jordan have started ministering to refugees along the Iraqi border. The workers are addressing the issues of hunger, nutrition and medical needs as the situation continues to unfold. The International Mission Board says their teams are responding to needs and reflecting God’s love for them. The group is urging Southern Baptist to respond by joining in fervent prayer for the peoples of Iraq and to consider a financial contribution to help Iraqis rebuild their lives and country.

(International)–Meanwhile, International Bible Society[4] is partnering with Athletes for Christ to provide soldiers with the Gospel message. The packs include a thank you note, a desert camouflage NIV Bible, a shield of Strength dog tag and Gospel tracts. The concept of “Operation Eternity” is a way to empower troops in the Middle East with the message of the Gospel. It is also an opportunity to help soldiers through the trauma of war.

(Brazil)–And, thousands of ministers and missionaries are receiving advanced training through one group to share the Gospel in Brazil. “We also are very involved in training Brazilians who are missionaries who go out to other countries and to Indian tribes in Brazil, we write many articles that pastor’s use in their sermons or just help them to pastor better. We are involved in much research that helps people to decide where to plant churches and what methodologies are different options for them as they develop their healthy churches.” Richard Duncan works with OC International[5] in facilitating training those with a heart for the lost. “We have 257 Indian tribes in Brazil, 103 of those have no evangelical presence at the moment. And foreigners are no longer allowed to go in and be a missionary to the Indian tribes in Brazil, so we really have to join hands with the Brazilians that are becoming missionaries and going to these tribes.” Over one-third of pastors in Brazil seek out OCI for training.

[1] http://www.gospelcom.net/mnn/media/group.php?agencyAb=ICF [2] http://www.gospelcom.net/mnn/media/group.php?agencyAb=EFCA [3] http://www.gospelcom.net/mnn/media/group.php?agencyAb=IMB [4] http://www.gospelcom.net/mnn/media/group.php?agencyAb=IBS [5] http://www.gospelcom.net/mnn/media/group.php?agencyAb=OCI ———————————————————————

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