“Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  Teach them to observe all things that I have commanded you.  And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” - Matthew 28:19-20

We believe that we have been called to use the gifts God has given us to reach unbelievers for Him and to encourage, and build up His Church.

Make Room for Another Plaque in Springfield

Our thirteen year old daughter, Rose, attends a small Christian school in a Portland, Maine suburb.  There are pros and cons to this educational choice, of course, but one of the pros is definitely the opportunity for all interested students to play in our sports program.  Her school is in a small independent league, but it gives them the experience of competing, playing together as a team, and learning the basics of the games.  This winter, Rose has been on the JV basketball team (grades 5 - 8).  Rose played one other year in the past, and the JV team is co-ed. 

The school also has a boys' and girls' varsity team, grades 8 - 12.  On Friday, Rose, the only eighth grade girl on the JV team, was invited to join the girls' varsity team in their first game of the league play-offs.  Honestly, it wasn't because of Rose's mad hoop skills (she's scored four points for the JV team this season).  It seems that the girls' varsity team are 1 and 9 for the season, and are down to five players!  Of course, she jumped at the chance to play in the big time.

Last week's Super Bowl win for the Patriots had nothing on this southern Maine, independent league game.  Rose got in the game a few times in the first half.  Her last time on the floor, her team got some momentum.  They went from four points down to two ahead.  Rose did not do any of the scoring (She is quick to point out that she got an assist), but  the coach - herself a former seventh grade student of mine who is now 31 - didn't want to mess with success.  Rose started the second half, and played the whole time.  She was never so aggressive on the JV team, where it is easier to rely on the kids who a lot of basketball experience to carry them.  Although she didn't score, Rose grabbed her share of rebounds, played solid defense, and was even called for a foul when she somehow turned a jump ball into a headlock on one of the other team's girls.  She reminded me of her older sister, Naomi, who was a very aggressive player and captain and MVP of this same varsity team in both her Junior and Senior years.

In the end, we won the game 21- 20, and this team that won once in the regular season has moved to the next level of the play-offs.  Rose has been invited to join them again, as the coach said, "She was the game changer.  She earned it." 

Yeah, she did.

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A Few Testimonies

The presentation was fun and encouraging... The gospel message was clear and encouraging. I purchased your book and just finished it. Your scope is broad and again encouraging. May God continue to bless your ministry. I will encourage others to read your book. -Parishioner of a local church

"Hey, I  wanted to say that was a great message in chapel today! It touched something:) thanks for doing it!" -High School Student  

"We are so grateful that you brought your amazing ministry back to our church this year... The Gospel message you bring applies to all!  It is such a positive, valuable work that you do."  -Coordinator of Christian Ed. UCC Church

"There's no questioning it. This is powerful stuff. It's extremely touching at times, never less than entertaining, and I see a lot of sincere love for Jesus in you guys."  -Dwight Lilies, song writer

The Lord has given you a wonderful window through which to present the Gospel!   - Field Director of Alliance Missions to Paraguay

"What a wonderful ministry to both children and adults.  In past years it has been a struggle to arrange programing that would hold the attention of all ages, but also challenge each heart with God's gift of Salvation.  Thank you for sharing your ministry."  -Sunday School Sup't.

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